Дисертації з теми "Bcov"

Coronavírus bovino (BCoV) é o agente causador de doença, tanto entérica como respiratória em bovinos, mas até agora existem controvérsias sobre a relação genealógica entre as amostras de BCoV em diferentes tecidos. Neste estudo, amostras de fezes e secreções nasais de 14 vacas de um mesmo rebanho apresentando simultaneamente disenteria epizoótica e doença respiratória foram estudados quanto a presença de BCoV. As amostras virais detectadas tiveram tanto o gene de espícula (S) como o gene hemaglutinina-esterase (HE) parcialmente sequenciados. Para o gene HE, foram obtidas 12 sequências de secreções nasais e 12 de amostras de fezes e para o gene S, foram obtidas 14 sequências de secreções nasais e 12 de amostras de fezes, com 100% de identidade nucleotídica para cada gene para as amostras deste estudo. Estes resultados apresentam algumas divergências com estudos anteriores os quais relatam que linhagens diferentes de BCoV podem ser esperados em casos de disenteria e doença respiratória em vacas, pois linhagens com sequências idênticas dos genes S e HE podem não mostrar diferenças em relação tropismo pelos diferentes tecidos. Sequências completas de duas amostras brasileiras de BCoV mostram que o já descrito padrão filogeográfico baseado no sequenciamento do gene S parcial foi mantido, foram encontradas substituições de aminoácidos específicos.
Bovine coronavirus (BCoV) is the causative agent of both enteric and respiratory disease in cattle, but hitherto there were some controversy on the genealogic relationship amongst strains from these different tissues. In this study, samples of feces and nasal secretions of 14 cows from a same herd simultaneously presenting epizootic dysentery and respiratory disease were screened for BCoV and the strains detected had both the spike (S) and hemagglutinin-esterase (HE) genes partially sequenced. For HE gene, 12 sequences from nasal secretions and 12 from fecal samples were obtained and for S gene, 14 sequences from nasal secretions and 12 from fecal samples were obtained, with 100% nucleotide identities for each gene for the strains of this study. These results have some disagreements with previous reports which try to put forward that divergent BCoV strain should be expected in cases of dysentery and respiratory disease in cows, showing that strain with identical S and HE sequences might show no differences in tropisms. Complete S gene sequences of two Brazilian BCoV strains show that the already described phylogeographic pattern based on partial S gene is sustained, though specific amino acids subtitutions are found.

Les coronavirus sont caracterises par un potentiel evolutif important par l’intermediaire de recombinaisons genetiques et de mutations ponctuelles. Ces evenements peuvent avoir pour consequences l’emergence reussie d’un nouveau variant dans une nouvelle population hote, apres un franchissement de barriere d’espece. L’un de ces franchissement inter-especes a eu lieu a la fin du xixeme siecle avec l’emergence du hcov-oc43 a partir du bcov. Le genotypage du hcov-oc43 a permis de mettre en evidence une diversification intraspecifique en de nombreux genotypes incluant des genotypes recombinants. Parallelement, le genotypage du bcov n’a pas permis d’observer d’evenements de recombinaisons. Cependant, nous avons observe une organisation des bcov selon une distribution geographique avec un cluster amerique/asie et un cluster europe. L’emergence d’un coronavirus dans la population humaine a partir d’un reservoir animal doit faire l’objet d’une surveillance, comme le montre l’emergence du sars-cov et le mers-cov, a l’origine d’epidemies associees a des mortalites globales d’environ 10% et 40% respectivement
Coronaviruses are characterized by an important evolutionary potential by genetic recombination and single nucleotide polymorphisms. These events could lead to the successful emergence of a new variant in a new host population, following a species barrier crossing. One such event occurred at the end of the 19th century, with the emergence of hcov-oc43 from bcov. Genotyping of hcov-oc43 has made it possible to show an intraspecific diversification into numerous genotypes, including recombinant variants. In parallel, genotyping of bcov did not reveal recombinant events. However, we observed an organization of bcov with a geographical distribution, with a european cluster and an american/asian cluster. There is a need for monitoring the emergence of coronaviruses in the human population from an animal reservoir, such as has been seen in the emergence of sars-cov and mers-cov at the origin of epidemics associated with global mortality rates of around 10% and 40%, respectively

Coronavirus bovino (BCoV), um membro da família i>Coronaviridae, causa severa diarréia em bezerros neonatos e tem sido associado a diarréias de inverno em vacas leiteiras em vários paises, incluindo o Brasil. A morbidade da disenteria de inverno e alta chegando ate 100% , sendo um fator importante para economia já que causa queda da produção leiteira, levando a grandes perdas as criações de vacas leiteiras. O objetivo deste trabalho foi pesquisar a ocorrência de BCoV em vacas, diagnosticando amostras positivas por RT-PCR gene Rp Rd e isolando estas amostras positivas em células da linhagem HRT-18G. As amostras de fecais foram obtidas de 43 vacas leiteiras com disenteria de 8 propriedades dos Estados de São Paulo e Minas Gerais, Brasil. Das dez (10/43=23%) amostras positivas para esta técnica, 7 foram inoculadas em células da linhagem HRT-18G, sendo que o isolamento foi comprovado pela mesma técnica após seis passagens seriadas em 4 inoculações. Com isso, mostra-se que o BCoV também esta envolvido em disenterias de inverno em vacas leiteiras no Brasil. E através de isolamentos deste vírus, podemos contribuir para estudos continuados ajudar no esclarecimento de sua epidemiologia e possibilitar com um banco de vírus a prevenção de ordem também especifica da enfermidade.
Bovine coronavirus (BCoV), a member of Coronaviridae family, causes severe diarrhea in newborn calves and has been associated with outbreaks of winter dysentery (WD) in adult cattle in several countries, including Brazil. The morbidity rate of WD is very high (50-100%) and the disease causes severe economic losses once it decreases milk production. The aim of the present study was to survey for the occurrence of BCoV in cows using a RT-PCR targeted to the replicase gene and to isolate positive samples in HRT-18G cells. The fecal samples were obtained from 43 adult dairy cows with dysentery from São Paulo and Minas Gerais States, Brazil. Ten (23%) of the 43 fecal samples were positive for BCoV and 7 of these were inoculated in HRT-18G cells, when the isolation of 4 samples was proved by RT-PCR after sex passages. These findings indicate that BCoV is also involved in outbreaks of dysentery in adult cattle in Brazil. This shows the importance of more comprehensive studies on coronavirus in dairy cattle in the surveyed area and, with the isolation of the virus strains studied herein, one may contribute to other studies to enlighten the epidemiology and prevention of the disease.

O coronavírus bovino (BCoV) é classificado no Grupo 2 do gênero Coronavirus da ordem Nidovirales, família Coronaviridae, causando disenteria (disenteria de inverno) em bovinos adultos, diarréia em bezerros neonatos e processos respiratórios em bovinos adultos e jovens. No presente estudo, 21 amostras fecais de vacas leiteiras colhidas durante um surto de disenteria em uma propriedade de Paranapanema no Estado de São Paulo positivas para BCoV foram submetidas a reações de PCR para amplificação parcial dos genes codificadores das proteínas S (448pb) e HE (441pb) do BCoV. Destas amostras, 14 foram positivas para cada PCR (não simultaneamente), sendo os fragmentos amplificados submetidos a seqüenciamento de DNA para reconstrução genealógica por máxima parcimônia através de algoritmo heurístico em conjunto com seqüências homólogas recuperadas do GenBank. Considerando-se o gene S, a identidade de nucleotídeos entre as 14 amostras aqui estudadas foi de 100%, tendo as mesmas segregado em um grupo exclusivo; além disso, demais amostras brasileiras incluídas no estudo segregam em outros dois grupos. Em relação ao gene HE, as 14 amostras estudadas apresentaram identidade de nucleotídeos de 100%, mas a árvore genealógica apresentou topologia pouco resolvida, tendo estas amostras, segregado em grupo politômico com as seqüências homólogas incluídas. Comparações entre os diversos grupos nas árvores do gene S em termos de aminoácidos revelaram marcadores grupo-específicos, com substituições exclusivas para as amostras de BCoV aqui estudadas. Com base nestes resultados, conclui-se que, durante o transcorrer do surto de disenteria de inverno, uma única linhagem de BCoV estava presente, baseado no seqüenciamento parcial dos genes S e HE e que há pelo menos três genótipos de BCoV presentes no Brasil em relação ao gene S e ao menos um em relação ao gene HE, considerando-se as regiões gênicas e as seqüências incluídas no presente estudo.
Bovine coronavirus (BCoV) is classified in group 2 of the genus Coronavirus, family Coronaviridae, order Nidovirales, and causes winter dysentery in adult bovine, neonatal calf diarrhea, and respiratory disorders in both adult and young bovine. In this investigation, 21 fecal samples from dairy cows collected during an outbreak of dysentery in a farm located at Paranapanema, São Paulo State, all positive to BCoV, were submitted to PCRs to partial amplification of genes S (448bp) and HE (441bp ) of BCoV. Fourteen out of these samples were positive for each PCR (not simultaneously) and the amplicons were submitted to DNA sequencing for genealogic reconstruction with maximum parsimony and heuristic algorithm with homologous sequences retrieved from the GenBank. Regarding S gene, the nucleotide identity among the 14 strains was 100% and these segregated in an exclusive cluster; furthermore, the other Brazilian strains included in the analysis segregated in other two clusters. Taking into account the HE gene, the 14 strains analyzed presented a nucleotide identity of 100%, but the genealogic tree showed a low-resolved topology, having these samples segregated in a polytomic cluster with the homologous sequences included. Amino acid comparisons among the different clusters in the trees of gene S revealed cluster-specific markers, with exclusive substitutions for the BCoV strains studied herein. Based on these results, one can conclude that, during the winter dysentery outbreak, a single BCoV lineage was involved based on partial S and HE genes sequences and that there are at least three genotypes of BCoV in Brazil regarding S gene and at least one regarding HE gene, taking into account the gene regions and the sequences included in this investigation.

O coronavírus bovino (BCoV) é classificado no grupo 2 do gênero Coronavirus da ordem Nidovirales, família Coronaviridae, causando diarréia em bezerros neonatos, processos respiratórios em bezerros não neonatos e disenteria em vacas adultas. No presente estudo, 203 amostras fecais de bezerros de 19 propriedades leiteiras nos Estados de São Paulo e Minas Gerais foram submetidas à prova de hemaglutinação/ inibição da hemaglutinação (HA/HI) para a detecção de coronavírus e a uma reação de PCR dirigida ao gene codificador da RNA-polimerase RNA-dependente dos coronavírus (PCR pol), sendo feita a comparação entre as duas técnicas através dos testes Kappa e J de Youden. Amostras positivas à PCR pol foram submetidas a uma reação de PCR para amplificação de um segmento de 488 pares de bases correspondentes à região hipervariável do gene codificador da subunidade S1 da proteína S, sendo os fragmentos submetidos a seqüenciamento de DNA para a reconstrução genealógica das amostras estudadas. Ainda, a presença de rotavírus foi pesquisada pela técnica de PAGE. Segundo a técnica de HA/ HI, 35,47% das amostras e 73,68% das propriedades rurais forma positivas para BCoV, enquanto que pela PCR pol 25,12% das amostras e 52,63% das propriedades rurais foram positivas para este vírus. A comparação entre as duas técnicas resultou valores de kappa de -0,048 para os resultados individuais e -0,08 em relação às propriedades rurais e J de Youden de -0,045 para os resultados individuais e -0,1 em relação às propriedades rurais, demonstrando baixa concordância entre as duas provas. A genealogia obtida por máxima parcimônia através de algoritmo heurístico e baseada em seqüências da região hipervariável do gene codificador da subunidade S1 da proteína S de 15 amostras de campo aqui estudadas, da amostra Kakegawa de coronavírus bovino utilizada como controle positivo e de 10 seqüências recuperadas dos GenBank revelou a existência de dois genotipos dentro desta espécie viral, sendo os dois genotipos encontrados entre amostras brasileiras. A identidade média de nucleotídeos entre as 15 amostras brasileiras foi de 98,34%, com similaridade média de aminoácidos de 98%. Amostras pertencentes ao genotipo 2 apresentaram uma deleção de 18 nucleotídeos/ 6 aminoácidos dentro da região correspondente ao domínio II da proteína S. A árvore de máxima parcimônia enraizada tendo bredavírus como grupo externo revelou que esta deleção ocorreu em um único momento na genealogia dos coronavírus bovinos. Rotavírus foi encontrado em 12,6% das amostras fecais individuais e 28, 57% das propriedades rurais pesquisadas. Estes resultados são os primeiros baseados em amostras brasileiras de coronavírus bovino e contribuem para a caracterização molecular do BCoV, para a predição da eficiência de imunógenos e para o encontro de marcadores moleculares úteis para estudos epidemiológicos continuados em relação às diarréias neonatais em bovinos.
Bovine coronavirus (BCoV) belongs to group 2 of the genus Coronavirus from the order Nidovirales, family Coronaviridae and causes diarrhea in newborn calves, respiratory diseases in non-newborn calves and dysentery in cows. In the present study, 203 stool samples of calves from 19 dairy farms from São Paulo and Minas Gerais States were submitted to hemagglutination/ hemagglutination inhibition test (HA/HI) to bovine coronavirus detection and a PCR assay targeted to the RNA-polymerase RNA-dependent gene of coronaviruses (PCR pol), the comparison between the two tests carried out with Kappa and Youden´s J tests. Samples positive to PCR pol were submitted to a PCR assay that amplifies a 488 base-pair fragment which corresponds to the hypervariable region of the gene coding for the S1 subunit of the S protein; the amplified fragments were submitted to DNA sequencing aiming the genealogic reconstruction of the studied samples. Rotavirus was surveyed with the PAGE test. The HA/ HI test resulted 35.47% of samples and 73.68% of farms positive to BCoV, while, according to PCR pol, 25.12% of the samples and 52.63% of the farms were positive to this virus. The comparison between the two tests produced a kappa value of -0.048 to individual results and -0.08 to the farms and Youden´s J value of -0.045 to individual results and -0.1 to the farms, showing low agreement between the two tests. Maximum parsimony genealogy with an heuristic algorithm based on sequences of the hypervariable region of the gene coding for the S1 subunit of the S protein from 15 field samples here studied, from the Kakegawa bovine coronavirus strain used as positive control and from 10 sequences retrieved from GenBank showed the existence of two genotypes in this viral species. Mean nucleotide identity between the 15 Brazilian samples was 98.34%, with mean amino acid similarity of 98%. Samples from genotype 2 showed a deletion of 18 nucleotides/ 6 amino acids inside the domain II region of the S protein. Rooted maximum parsimony tree with bredavirus as an outgroup revealed that this deletion has happened only once in bovine coronavirus genealogy. Rotavirus was found in 12.6 % of stool samples and 28.57% of the surveyed farms. These are the first results based on Brazilian strains of bovine coronavirus and contribute to molecular characterization of BCoV, to the prediction of the efficiency of immunogens and to the finding of molecular markers useful to continued epidemiologic surveys on newborn bovine diarrhea.

These studies have focused on identifying the mathematical requirements of first-year BCom students at Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University. The research methodology used in this quantitative study was to make use of interviewing, questionnaire investigation, and document analysis in the form of textbook, test and examination analysis. These methods provided data that fitted into a grounded theory approach. The study concluded by identifying the list of mathematical topics required for the first year of the core subjects in the BCom degree programme. In addition, the study found that learners who study Mathematics in the National Senior Certificate should be able to cope with the mathematical content included in their BCom degree programme, while learners studying Mathematical Literacy would probably need support in some of the areas of mathematics, especially algebra, in order to cope with the mathematical content included in their BCom degree programme. It makes a valuable contribution towards elucidating the mathematical requirements needed to improve the chances of successful BCom degree programme studies at South African universities. It also draws the contours for starting to design an efficient support course for future “at-risk” students who enter higher education studies.

Les arbres apportent de nombreux services écosystémiques en ville, ils permettent de diminuer certaines conséquences de l’urbanisation comme l’îlot de chaleur urbain et le ruissellement de l’eau. Leur effet thermo-radiatif améliore le confort thermique. Les arbres peuvent également impacter la qualité de l’air en ville via différents processus. Le dépôt de polluants gazeux et particulaires sur les feuilles des arbres peut contribuer à la diminution des concentrations. Cependant, l’effet aérodynamique des arbres modifie l’écoulement dans les rues canyons et limite la dispersion des polluants émis dans la rue. Par ailleurs, les arbres émettent des composés organiques volatils biogéniques (COVb) qui peuvent participer à la formation d’O3 et d’aérosols organiques secondaires. Les émissions de COVb varient selon l’espèce d’arbre, et sont influencées par des facteurs climatiques (température, rayonnement) mais aussi par le statut hydrique des arbres. Cette thèse a pour objectif de quantifier les impacts de ces différents processus sur la qualité de l’air en ville. Des simulations numériques sont réalisées sur la ville de Paris pendant l’été 2022 avec la chaîne de modèles CHIMERE/MUNICH afin de quantifier l’impact des arbres sur les concentrations atmosphériques de polluants à l’échelle locale et régionale. Les concentrations simulées sont comparées à des mesures. Les arbres urbains ne sont généralement pas pris en compte dans les modèles de qualité l’air, aussi bien à l’échelle régionale qu’à l’échelle de la rue. Pour intégrer les émissions de COVb dans le modèle régional CHIMERE, un inventaire est réalisé à partir de la base de données des arbres de la ville de Paris. Une méthode est développée afin d’estimer les caractéristiques des arbres qui sont utilisées en données d’entrée des différents modèles (surface de feuille, biomasse sèche, taille de la couronne, etc.). En moyenne sur les mois de juin et juillet 2022 à Paris, les émissions biogéniques locales des arbres induisent une augmentation de 1,0% d’O3, 4,6% de PM1 organiques et 0,6% de PM2.5. Les émissions biogéniques des arbres urbains augmentent très fortement les concentrations d’isoprène et de monoterpènes. Par comparaison aux mesures, les concentrations de terpènes ont tendance à être sous-estimées, compte tenu des incertitudes liées aux facteurs d’émissions et à la part de végétation manquante dans l’inventaire. Les émissions de terpène de la végétation urbaine et suburbaine influencent fortement la formation de particules organiques, il est donc important de bien les caractériser dans les modèles de qualité de l’air. Les différents effets des arbres urbains sur la qualité de l’air à l’échelle de la rue sont ensuite ajoutés dans le modèle de réseau de rue MUNICH. L’effet aérodynamique des arbres dans les rues est paramétré à partir de simulations de mécanique des fluides. Il induit une augmentation des concentrations des composés émis dans la rue. Cette augmentation peut atteindre +37% pour le NO2 dans les rues avec une surface de feuilles importante et un trafic élevé. Le dépôt sur les feuilles des arbres est calculé à partir d’une approche résistive adaptée à l’échelle de l’arbre urbain dans la rue. Cependant, son impact sur les concentrations reste limité sur les gaz et particules étudiés (< -3%).Pour finir, un couplage entre les modèles TEB (modèle de surface urbaine), SPAC (modèle de continuum sol-plante-atmosphère) et MUNICH a été mis en place. Ce couplage permet de mieux représenter les impacts des hétérogénéités du micro-climat urbain et de l’effet thermo-radiatif des arbres sur les concentrations de gaz et de particules. L’effet de ce micro-climat et du stress hydrique des arbres sur les émissions de COVb est aussi pris en compte afin d’affiner le calcul des émissions
Trees provide numerous ecosystem services in cities, helping to reduce some of the consequences of urbanization, such as the urban heat island and water run-off. Their thermo-radiative effect improves thermal comfort.Trees can also have an impact on urban air quality through various processes. The deposition of gaseous and particulate pollutants on tree leaves can help to reduce concentrations. However, the aerodynamic effect of trees modifies the airflow in street canyons and limits the dispersion of pollutants emitted in the street. Trees also emit biogenic volatile organic compounds (BVOCs), which can contribute to the formation of O3 and secondary organic aerosols. BVOC emissions vary depending on the tree species, and are influenced by climatic factors (temperature, radiation) and by the tree water status.The objective of this thesis is to quantify the impacts of these different processes on urban air quality. Numerical simulations are performed over the city of Paris during summer 2022 using the CHIMERE/MUNICH model chain in order to quantify the impact of trees on atmospheric concentrations of pollutants at the local and regional scales. The simulated concentrations are compared to measurements.Urban trees are not generally taken into account in air quality models, either at regional or street level. In order to integrate BVOC emissions into the CHIMERE regional model, an inventory is developed using the tree database of the city of Paris. A method is set up to estimate the characteristics of the trees, which are used as input data for the various models (leaf area, dry biomass, crown size, etc.). On average over the months of June and July 2022 in Paris, local biogenic emissions from trees lead to an increase of 1.0% in O3, 4.6% in organic PM1 and 0.6% in PM2.5. Biogenic emissions from urban trees strongly increase concentrations of isoprene and monoterpenes. Compared with measurements, terpene concentrations tend to be underestimated, given the uncertainties associated with emission factors and the missing part of the vegetation in the inventory. Terpene emissions from urban and suburban vegetation greatly influence the formation of organic particles, it is therefore important to characterize them properly in air quality models.The various effects of urban trees on air quality at street level are then added into the MUNICH street network model. The aerodynamic effect of street trees is parameterized using computational fluid dynamics simulations. It leads to an increase in the concentrations of compounds emitted into the street. This increase can reach +37% for NO2 in streets with a large leaf surface and high traffic. Deposition on tree leaves is computed using a resistive approach adapted to the scale of the tree in the street. However, its impact on concentrations remains limited for the gases and particles studied (< -3%).Finally, a coupling between the TEB (urban surface model), SPAC (soil-plant-atmosphere continuum model) and MUNICH models is developed. This coupling provides a better representation of the impacts of the urban micro-climate heterogeneities and of the thermo-radiative effect of trees on gas and particle concentrations. The effects of the micro-climate and of the tree water stress on BVOC emissions are also taken into account in order to refine the calculation of emissions

Neuropsychology as a discipline has not taken root in low- and middle-income countries. Most neurocognitive tests used in these countries were developed and normed in high-income, mostly western countries. The psychometric robustness of these tests is often weak when they are used on low to middle-income clinical populations. The objectives of this study were to select, adapt and generate normative data for a suitable neurocognitive screen for use in Zimbabwe. To achieve these objectives, we divided the study into 4 phases. In Phase 1 of the study, we did a systematic review that identified 83 neurocognitive assessment instruments commonly used in low- and middle-income countries on patients who have suffered a stroke. From these instruments, we selected, adapted and normed the Birmingham Cognitive Screen (BCoS; Humphreys al., 2012) through phases 2 to 4 of this study. The screen offers a robust and sufficiently broad but shallow assessment tool for cognitive deficits across key cognitive domains commonly impaired following a stroke. In particular, in Phase 2 of the study, we evaluated the cross-cultural sensitivity of BCoS on healthy participants (N=105). We then performed surveys using the Delphi method on a panel of experts to culturally adapt BCoS for use in Zimbabwe (Zim-BCoS). We evaluated the inter-rater and test-retest reliability of the translated and validated Zim-BCoS and also compared its agreement with the original BCoS version to determine its robustness. In Phase 3, we evaluated the effects of demographic variables on performance on the cognitive domains assessed by Zim-BCoS. To do this, we performed multiple linear regression analyses to calculate regression-based norms using scores from a sample of healthy participants (N=412). From these analyses, participants' age, level of education and sex had significant effects, mainly on subtests in the language cognitive domain (Picture Naming, Sentence/Word Reading/Writing and Instruction Comprehension). In Phase 4 of the study, we performed neurocognitive assessments using Zim-BCoS (and other tests) to assess and determine the frequency of specific neurocognitive deficits in patients who had suffered a stroke and were attending two major hospitals in Harare, Zimbabwe's capital city (N=103). We also compared the performance of these patients to a matched control sample (N=103). To determine the psychometric stability of Zim-BCoS we determined its validity and reliability by comparing scores on its subtests to parallel neurocognitive tests that assess similar cognitive domains. We also assessed the predictive value of Zim-BCoS on patients' neuropsychiatric and functional outcomes. We evaluated the convergence and predictive validity as well as the inclusivity of Zim-BCoS to assess patients with aphasia. We used the Zim-BCoS test scores to establish prevalence rates of cognitive deficits and other post-stroke sequelae in the sample of patients with stroke. We also assessed the predictive value of ZimBCoS subtests on patients' neuropsychiatric and functional outcomes. All comparisons of ZimBCoS against standard cognitive tests and post-stroke sequelae measures had statistically significant convergence, predictive validity and inclusivity. In this study, we demonstrated the utility of Zim-BCoS for assessing cognitive impairment in patients who have suffered a stroke, particularly in resource poor contexts typical of low-income countries. We concluded that ZimBCoS is a robust neuropsychological screen suitable for research and clinical use in Zimbabwe. The screen has the potential to offer a cost effective and easy to use neurocognitive screen for patients with acquired neurological changes in low-income countries in Southern Africa.

Hierdie studie fokus op positief sielkundige konstrukte soos veerkragtigheid as positiewe krag en die sterk invloed daarvan op alle vlakke van uitbranding. Die studie neem die standpunt in dat dit belangrik is om ondersoek in te stel na die invloed van positiewe konstrukte en die invloed daarvan op die lewens van mense. Verder bied die studie meer spesifieke insig rakende die faktore wat studente in staat stel om bo algemene akademiese en persoonlike uitdagings uit te styg en te floreer. Die doel van die studie was om die verband tussen veerkragtigheid en uitbranding te bepaal, en verder om ondersoek in te stel rakende die vraag of daar verskille bestaan met betrekking tot ras, geslag, jaar van studie, beskouing van akademiese prestasie, persepsies rakende werkslading en tevredenheid met prestasie. Data is ingesamel deur elektroniese opnames per e-pos uit te stuur aan voorgraadse studente aan die Universiteit van Pretoria (UP) deur gebruik te maak van die Universiteit se Qualtrics-sisteem. ? Totaal van (n=361) studente het deelgeneem aan die studie. Die studie het gebruik gemaak van bevestigende faktorontleding om die teoretiese strukture van konstrukte te evalueer. Strukturele vergelykingsmodellering (SVM) is gebruik om beide meervoudige regressie ("multiple regression"), en bevestigende faktorontleding te kombineer. Die aard van verhoudinge tussen veranderlikes is met behulp van SVM verduidelik. Die resultate toon dat die passing van beide modelle aanvaarbaar is nadat sekere items verwyder is. Verder toon resultate dat daar nie ? betekenisvolle verband bestaan tussen veerkragtigheid en uitbranding nie en dat slegs die dimensie van vasberadenheid ? statisties betekenisvolle negatiewe verwantskap met uitbranding toon (b4=?0.614, p<0.01 en ?=0.01). Resultate toon betekenisvolle verskille met betrekking tot geslag, beskouing van akademiese prestasie, persepsies rakende werkslading, asook tevredenheid met akademiese prestasie. Met betrekking tot etnisiteit en jaar van studie was daar geen betekenisvolle verskille in veerkragtigheid of uitbranding nie.
Mini Dissertation (MCom)--University of Pretoria, 2015.
Human Resource Management
MCom
Unrestricted

Ésteres produzidos por via biotecnológica são considerados e classificados como naturais e sua demanda tem aumentado. Várias leveduras podem produzir ésteres e seu método de seleção é altamente importante para inúmeros tipos de indústrias. Trinta e quatro cepas de leveduras, isoladas de vinhos tintos em barris de carvalho elaborados na Serra Gaúcha e de queijos artesanais do Sul do Brasil, foram utilizadas neste trabalho. Cada cepa foi inoculada na superfície de meio sólido inclinado rico em glicose e nitrogênio, diretamente no frasco utilizado para a microextração em fase sólida (SPME) seguida pela injeção num cromatógrafo gasoso com detecção por espectrometria de massas (GC/MS) e quantificação utilizando detector de ionização de chama (GC-FID). O método foi desenvolvido e validado, sendo que a fibra DVB/PDMS/CAR, temperatura de extração de 80˚C e 20 minutos de aquecimento da amostra antes da extração foram as condições ótimas estabelecidas. A metodologia de superfície e resposta foi usada para a otimização da produção de acetato de etila pela levedura Zygosaccharomyces bailii BCV 08, e um planejamento fatorial 22 foi aplicado para determinar as melhores condições de temperatura de cultivo (X1, 20 até 36 ˚C) e agitação (X2, 0 a 200 rev/min). Os melhores resultados foram obtidos com a temperatura de 28 ˚C e 0 rev/min, onde houve um aumento de 60% na produção de acetato de etila. Foram avaliados os efeitos das fontes de carbono (glicose e frutose) e do mosto de uva sobre a produção de acetato de etila. A máxima concentração de acetato de etila produzida foi de 71,11 mg/L, utilizando o mosto de uva como meio. Experimentos utilizando biorreatores de 4L levaram à produção máxima de 133,74 mg/L de acetato de etila, 14,57 mg/L de hexanoato de etila, 4.093,74 mg/L de octanoato de etila e 3.775,28 mg/L de decanoato de etila.
Esters produced by biotechnological means are legally labeled as natural and there is an increasing demand for these products. Several yeasts can accumulate esters, and their selection is highly interesting for many industries. Thirty-four yeast strains isolated from red wine oak barrels of Serra Gaúcha winemaking region and from homemade cheeses of Southern Brazil were used in this research. The yeasts were inoculated in agar slants of a solid medium rich in glucose and nitrogen, directly inside the extraction transparent glass vials, using a headspace solid phase microextraction (SPME) method followed by injection of gas chromatography with mass spectrometric detection (GC/MS), and quantification by flame ionization detector (GC/FID). The analytical method was developed and validated, and the DVB/PDMS/CAR fiber, extraction temperature of 80˚C, and 20 minutes of sample heating time volatilization prior to the extraction step were the best conditions. A response surface methodology was used to optimize the production of ethyl acetate by Zygosaccharomyces bailii BCV 08, which was selected, and a 22 full factorial central composite design was applied to determine the best conditions for the cultivation temperature (X1, 20 to 36 ˚C) and stirring speed (X2, 0 to 200 rev/min). The best results were found with temperature of 28 ˚C and medium agitation of 0 rev/min, with a 60% increase in ethyl acetate production. We evaluated the effect of the carbon sources (glucose and fructose) and grape must on ethyl acetate formation; the maximal yield was reached with grape must and the highest concentration of ethyl acetate produced was 71.11 mg/L. Employing experiments on bioreactors of 4L, it was possible to improve the esters production by this yeast; a maximal production of 133.74 mg/L of ethyl acetate, 14.57 mg/L of ethyl hexanoate, 4093.74 mg/L of ethyl octanoate, and 3775.28 mg/L of ethyl decanoate was reached.

A major challenge in the post-genomic era is to understand how genome sequence variants (genotype) give rise to the enormous diversity observed in terms of morphology, physiology and behavior (phenotype) among living organisms. Domestic animals—with their tremendous phenotypic variation—are excellent model organisms for determining the relationships between genotype and phenotype. In this thesis, I describe the utilization of the chicken, in combination with modern genetic and genomic approaches, in developing our understanding of the genetic mechanisms underlying phenotypic variation. These studies provide novel information on the genetics behind variation in carotenoid- and melanin-based pigmentation—observed in many organisms—and also cast light on the genetic basis of chicken domestication. In paper I, we report that the yellow skin phenotype—observed in most commercial chickens—is caused by one or several tissue-specific mutations altering the expression of beta-carotene oxygenase 2 (BCO2 or BCDO2) in skin. In addition, we present the first conclusive evidence of a hybrid origin of the domestic chicken, since the allele causing yellow skin most likely originates from the grey jungle fowl (Gallus sonneratii) and not from the previously described sole ancestor, the red jungle fowl (Gallus gallus). In paper II, we detect a number of loci that were likely important during the domestication process of chicken and the later specialization into meat (broiler) and egg (layer) producing lines. One of the major findings was that worldwide, almost all domestic chickens carry a missense mutation in TSHR (thyroid stimulating hormone receptor) in a position that is completely conserved amongst vertebrates. We speculate that this “domestication-mutation” has played an important role in the transformation of the wild red jungle fowl ancestor into the modern domestic chicken. In paper III, we demonstrate that the dilution of red (pheomelanin) pigmentation—observed in the plumage of the Inhibitor of Gold chicken—is caused by a frame-shift mutation in the catechol-O-methyltransferase domain containing 1 (COMTD1) gene. The production and regulation of pheomelanin is poorly understood and this discovery advances our current knowledge of this pathway.

Ewing-like sarcomas (ELS) are a heterogenous group of neoplasms that typically occur in the bone and soft tissue of pediatric and young adult patients. ELS share various degrees of morphological, immunohistochemical, molecular, and clinical similarity with Ewing sarcomas. However, these tumors lack the pathognomonic molecular hallmark of Ewing sarcoma, which is defined as translocation between a gene of the RNA-binding TET family (EWSR1 or FUS) with a gene of the ETS-transcription family (FLI1, ERG, ETV1, ETV4, or FEV). Accurate classification and distinction from classical Ewing sarcomas is important for patient management. A subset of ELS harboring the BCOR-CCNB3 fusion has been described recently – the majority of which that have been reported to date are bone-based tumors, though there have been cases of discrete soft tissue-based tumors. We herein present a case of ELS harboring the BCOR-CCNB3 translocation occurring in a pediatric patient presenting with a large abdominal mass discovered on chest CT after failed outpatient treatment for pneumonia with effusion. This patient was a 14-year-old Caucasian boy with a past medical history significant for obesity and three episodes of pneumonia since 6-years-old. Imaging showed a large heterogeneous mass at the posterior left upper quadrant of the abdomen protruding through the posterior aspect of the left hemidiaphragm causing atelectasis. The mass abuts the inferior leftward aspect of the descending thoracic aorta and also protrudes between the 11th and 12th posterior lateral left rib. Pathology revealed this mass to be an Ewing-like sarcoma with a BCOR-CCNB3 fusion. Patient was treated with chemotherapy and radiation. This case demonstrates the importance of determining an accurate diagnosis to provide specific management.

L'étude du comportement sous incendie des bétons a particulièrement pris son essor depuis des incendies répétés de tunnels comme celui sous la Manche ou du Mont-Blanc. La problématique de résistance au feu est essentielle puisque les éclatements qui peuvent accompagner la diminution de résistance du matériau sont de nature à fragiliser fortement les structures. Depuis plusieurs décennies, le domaine de la résistance au feu des bétons ordinaires et à hautes performances a été exploré tant expérimentalement que théoriquement. Cependant il existe des matériaux plus récents, que sont les bétons fibrés à ultra performances (BFUP), pour lesquels le phénomène d'instabilité thermique est accentué et dont le comportement mécanique à chaud n'a pas été beaucoup exploré. L'étude menée ici a pour vocation de s'intéresser à un BFUP particulier, le BCV®, fourni par l'entreprise Vicat. Les résultats exposés permettent de mieux comprendre l'efficacité des fibres de polypropylène face aux autres fibres synthétiques, grâce à une approche expérimentale originale complétée par une étude à l'échelle microscopique. Cette dernière est constituée de nombreuses analyses au microscope électronique à balayage ainsi que d'études de porosimétrie au mercure. Cette première phase est suivie d'un vaste programme de caractérisations mécaniques à chaud sur le BCV® à des températures variant de 20°C à 1100°C, essais peu courants pour ce genre de matériau. Ce travail contribue à la compréhension du comportement des BFUP à haute température, et montre que l'évolution avec la température de leurs caractéristiques mécaniques principales (résistance en flexion, résistance en compression et module d'élasticité) est assez semblable à celle des bétons ordinaires. Les résultats de cette étude contribuent à une meilleures connaissance du comportement à haute température des bétons fibrés à ultra performances.

Negli ultimi anni la tecnologia blockchain si è distinta sia per i risultati portati nel campo dello scambio di valore digitale, tramite le criptovalute, sia per la possibilità di utilizzarla come alternativa ai tradizionali strumenti di memorizzazione delle informazioni. Una peculiarità della tecnologia blockchain infatti è quella di conservare le informazioni in “blocchi”, collegati gli uni agli altri tramite tecniche crittografiche; il risultato di questa particolare struttura dati è la possibilità di tracciare tutta la storia di un dato e i suoi scambi, arrivando al punto in cui è stato inserito all’interno del sistema. Contemporaneamente allo sviluppo della tecnologia blockchain l’IoT ha trovato campo di applicazione in una quantità enorme di applicazioni industriali, al fine di effettuare il monitoraggio e il controllo da remoto o automatico di sistemi elettronici. I dispositivi IoT sono fondamentali per lo sviluppo delle cosiddette smart cities, poiché abilitano l’automazione di tipologie di azioni e controlli che normalmente dovevano essere realizzati in maniera manuale. La commistione delle due tecnologie sopracitate ha preso il nome di Blockchain of Things (BCoT), e rappresenta l’ultima evoluzione dello scambio informativo tra dispositivi IoT, che sono quindi in grado, oltre che di effettuare operazioni sull’ambiente, anche di certificare i dati raccolti in maniera automatica tramite la blockchain e fornirli all’utente finale all’interno di un ledger decentralizzato (letteralmente “libro mastro”, termine inglese usato per indicare la struttura dati che sostiene una generica blockchain). Lo scopo di questo elaborato é quindi quello di proporre una soluzione general-purpose che faccia uso della tecnologia BCoT per rispondere ad un insieme di criticità trasversali e riscontrate in vari campi applicativi.

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Coordenação de Aperfeiçoamento de Pessoal de Nível Superior (CAPES)
As propriedades diferenciadas de materiais nanoestruturados, provenientes do efeito de escala, tem chamado muita atenção nos últimos anos. Tais características, fazem desses materiais propícios para o emprego em nanoeletrônica, nanofiltração, engenharia tecidual e outros. Isso, aliado a miniaturização dos dispositivos, tem gerado uma grande demanda por materiais com características aprimoradas, desenvolvimento de novas técnicas de produção e aprimoramento das já existentes, tudo isso associado a um menor custo de produção e uma maior produtividade. Neste trabalho é apresentado um estudo sobre o emprego da técnica de “Solution Blow-spinning” (SBS) na produção de nano e microfios supercondutores dos sistemas cerâmicos (TR)BCO e BSCCO. Esta recente técnica tem se destacado por apresentar maior taxa de produção, baixo custo e fácil implementação quando comparado com técnicas já consolidadas. Primeiramente foram produzidas fibras de PVP puro onde foi possível extrair informações referentes às variáveis de produção tais como: taxa de injeção, pressão do ar, distância de trabalho e escolha do diâmetro da agulha interna. Em seguida, a produção dos nano/microfios de YBa2Cu3O7- δ (YBCO) obtidos por SBS revelaram detalhes referente à produtividade, reprodutibilidade e das características morfológicas dos fios cerâmicos obtidos com o emprego da referida técnica. Posteriormente, as melhores condições de síntese observadas na produção do YBCO foram utilizadas na obtenção dos nano/microfios supercondutores de GdBa2Cu3O7- δ (GdBCO)e Bi2Sr2CaCu2O8+x (BSCCO). Por fim, as análises de MEV confirmaram a obtenção de nano/microfios de YBCO com diâmetro médio de 359 nm e, para GdBCO e BSCCO, de 531 nm e 635 nm respectivamente. A obtenção das fases cerâmicas supercondutoras é mostrada nas análises de DRX. Medidas magnéticas AC e DC mostraram a transição de fase normal/supercondutora com Tc ~ 92 K para o YBCO, Tc ~ 93 K para o GdBCO e de Tc ~ 80 K para o BSCCO.
The single properties presented by nanostructured materials is due to a scale effect and have been attracted much attention in recent years. Such characteristics make these materials suitable for applications in nanoelectronics, nanofiltration, tissue engineering and so on. These issues coupled with the miniaturization of the devices, have generated a great demand for materials with improved characteristics, development of new production techniques and improvement of the existing ones. All such things are associated with lower production costs and higher productivity. In this work is presented a study focused on the use of the "Solution Blow-spinning" technique (SBS) in the production of superconducting nano and microwires of the ceramic systems (TR)BCO and BSCCO. This new technique has payed attention due to its higher production rate, low cost and easy implementation when compared to other consolidated techniques. First, pure PVP fibers were produced to obtain information related to the production variables such as: injection rate, air pressure, working distance and choice of the internal needle diameter. Then, the production of nano/microwires of YBa2Cu3O7- δ (YBCO), obtained by SBS, revealed details regarding the productivity, reproducibility and morphological characteristics of the ceramic wires. Consequently, the best synthesis conditions were used to obtain the GdBa2Cu3O7- δ (GdBCO) and Bi2Sr2CaCu2O8+x (BSCCO) superconducting nanowires. Finally, SEM analysis confirmed the production of nanoscale YBCO with average diameter of 359 nm and, for GdBCO and BSCCO, of 531 nm and 635 nm, respectively. The formation of the desired phases of the superconducting ceramic was confirmed by XRD analyzes. AC and DC magnetic measurements showed the normal/superconducting phase transition with Tc ~ 92 K for YBCO, Tc ~ 93 K for GdBCO and Tc ~ 80 K for BSCCO.
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In ambito di ricerca (clinica e sportiva), la necessità di sviluppare un approccio ‘multilaterale’ (qualitativo e quantitativo) che caratterizzi matematicamente la traiettoria tri-dimensionale di una variabile fisica assolutamente importante ma spesso dimenticata, quale il centro di massa corporeo (CMC) (ovvero, il punto immaginario assimilabile al corpo umano in cui si suppone che tutte le masse corporee stiano concentrate), diviene oggi sempre più impellente e quanto mai urgente. Pertanto l’obiettivo di questo dottorato, perseguito tramite un differente utilizzo delle classiche metodologie biomeccaniche, è rappresentare le grandezze cinematiche che descrivono il movimento dei segmenti corporei e del suddetto CMC nel tempo e nello spazio. Per conseguire questo traguardo si sono pensati e realizzati due diversi progetti. Con il primo progetto si sono previsti: a) lo sviluppo di un metodo matematico quantitativo (Serie di Fourier) per descrivere e rappresentare graficamente la traiettoria tri-dimensionale del CMC durante la locomozione su treadmill (la cosiddetta Impronta Digitale Locomotoria, specifica per soggetto/popolazione); b) la caratterizzazione della simmetria nella traiettoria del CMC (il cosiddetto Indice di Simmetria); infine, c) la costituzione di un database di valori normali (coefficienti di equazioni) in un insieme piuttosto esteso di condizioni, al variare di sesso (maschi versus femmine), età (dai 6 ai 65 anni), tipologia di locomozione (marcia versus corsa), velocità e pendenza (piano, salita e discesa). Questo database iniziale rappresenta il parametro principale di riferimento per la locomozione sana. Attraverso questo studio è stato ampiamente dimostrato che la locomozione umana risulta genericamente asimmetrica. Nello specifico: 1) tra maschi e femmine non si sono riscontrate differenze significative; 2) indipendentemente da età e pendenza, le velocità più basse, meno naturali e comuni, sono caratterizzate da pattern di Impronte Digitali Locomotorie più variabili. Viceversa, un aumento di velocità è accoppiato con un progressivo e continuo innalzamento del CMC; 3) l’asimmetria destra e sinistra del passo è molto probabilmente correlata sia con l’anatomia (lunghezza della gamba) che con la predominanza dell’arto; in linea con l’ipotesi iniziale, 4) mediamente, la corsa è più asimmetrica della marcia; infine, 5) i bambini e gli anziani presentano maggiori asimmetrie (marcia e corsa): questo è dovuto alla progressiva maturazione del ciclo del cammino (nei bambini) ed alle caratteristiche muscolari e scheletriche dell’apparato locomotore (negli anziani). Pertanto, attraverso una caratterizzazione matematica della traiettoria tri-dimensionale del CMC, si è potuto: a) quantificare il suo spostamento nel tempo e nello spazio; b) individuare l’Impronta Digitale Locomotoria specifica di sesso, età, tipologia di locomozione, velocità e pendenza. Questo importante traguardo permetterà, in un immediato futuro, la comparazione con la situazione di normalità di condizioni di locomozione compromessa o impedita (ad esempio, bambini con paralisi cerebrale infantile, obesi e amputati). Infine, la stima della principali variabili biomeccaniche è risultata fondamentale sia nel descrivere la meccanica di marcia e corsa che nel caratterizzarne la corrispondente impronta locomotoria. Le nostre misure di tali variabili (semplici e complesse), ottenute con metodo discreto (ciclo per ciclo), con l’impiego di una funzione matematica continua (Serie di Fourier) e con l’applicazione di un’equazione predittiva (misura indiretta), soddisfano completamente ed addirittura ampliano la letteratura già esistente. Nel secondo progetto, partendo da uno studio sulla performance dei cavalli, si è cercato di verificare se esiste una correlazione tra simmetrie corporee (statiche e dinamiche) ed economia nella corsa anche in corridori umani variamente allenati (classificati in tre gruppi sulla base del loro miglior tempo nella maratona). Inoltre: a) si sono sviluppati metodi di analisi bi- e tri-dimensionale delle Risonanze Magnetiche per Immagini (regione pelvica ed arti inferiori), impiegate come riferimento per le simmetrie statiche; b) attraverso sia l’Impronta Digitale Locomotoria che l’Indice di Simmetria si sono caratterizzate le simmetrie dinamiche; infine c) l’economia della corsa è stata espressa attraverso il suo reciproco, ovvero il costo metabolico. L’analisi sia bi- che tri-dimensionale delle immagini ha evidenziato differenze davvero esigue in base al livello di allenamento. Positivamente ed indipendentemente dai corridori, si è dimostrato che ad una maggiore simmetria nella regione del ginocchio corrisponde una maggiore simmetria nella regione della caviglia. Inoltre l’analisi delle simmetrie dinamiche ha permesso di osservare che: 1) il CMC si solleva leggermente in funzione della velocità; 2) le asimmetrie destre e sinistre del passo sono principalmente marcate lungo la direzione di movimento e, contemporaneamente, ridotte lungo la direzione verticale. Esse sono strettamente dipendenti dall’anatomia e dall’arto dominante; 3) diversamente da quanto ci si aspettava, sono state comunque evidenziate solamente poche differenze tra i corridori. Negativamente, l’economia della corsa non mostra differenze significative tra i gruppi testati. Perciò, diversamente dall’ipotesi iniziale, non è stata evidenziata l’esistenza di alcuna relazione tra le simmetrie corporee e l’economia della corsa, quanto piuttosto solo la presenza di una discreta variabilità in simmetria statica e dinamica. Infine, l’analisi di bioenergetica (treadmill versus pista) e biomeccanica (variabili semplici/complesse e variabilità spazio/temporale del CMC) della corsa ha evidenziato la presenza solamente di poche differenze dovute al livello di allenamento dei soggetti studiati.
In both research laboratory and sport/clinical settings, it becomes very important to develop a ‘multilateral approach’ (qualitative and quantitative) to fully describe the individual behaviour of the centre of mass of the human body (BCOM) (i.e. the imaginary specific point at which the body behaves as if its masses were concentrated) over time and space. Consequently, the aim of this doctorate is to describe kinematic variables of the BCOM in varying locomotion conditions. This purpose, focusing on the BCOM as the investigation object fulfilling such a need, has been achieved through a different use of classic biomechanical procedures. In effect, two different studies were carried out. The first project sought: a) to develop a mathematical method (Fourier Series) which could describe and graphically represent each individual (subject or population) gait signature (i.e. Digital Locomotory Signature, a global index of the BCOM dynamics) during locomotion on a treadmill; b) to assess the symmetry (i.e. Symmetry Index) in each movement direction, along the BCOM trajectory, between the two stride phases; finally, c) to build up an initial comprehensive database of ‘healthy values’ (equation coefficients) in a set of different conditions considering gender (males versus females), age (from 6 to 65 years), gait (walking versus running), speed and gradient (level, uphill and downhill). Although only slight gender differences were found, human ‘healthy’ gait is rather asymmetrical. To be precise: 1) the lowest speeds have the most peculiar signature independently of age and gradient: indeed, these speeds are not so completely natural and common. However, if speed increases, the BCOM raises in such a way that its corresponding 3D contour becomes more regular; 2) right and left sides of the stride are quite asymmetrical (i.e. in the forward direction). Globally, this asymmetry is probably related both to anatomy (i.e. leg length) and which hand you use (i.e. right-handedness); 3) on average, the symmetry pattern is slightly lower in running gaits; and as expected, 4) young children and elderly adults are the most asymmetrical subjects, independently of testing conditions: while, during the early stages of life, this global asymmetry could be ascribed to the process of gait development, old age asymmetries are probably due to structural wearing down of the musculoskeletal system. Importantly, the mathematical methodology used here, by analysing even subtle changes in the 3D BCOM trajectory: a) characterizes its displacements over both time and space; b) quantitatively describes the individual gait signature; and c) represents the basis for the evaluation of gait anomaly/pathology (e.g. children with cerebral palsy, obese people and amputees). Finally, knowing the main biomechanical variables becomes fundamental both to fully describe the mechanics of walking and running and to extract and characterize the individual gait signature. In effect, our measurements (discrete method versus continuous mathematical function, and direct versus indirect measurement) of both simple and complex variables wholly confirm, complete and amplify previous literature data. Similarly to what previously demonstrated in horse performances, the second project tried: a) to verify both static anatomical and kinematic functional symmetries as important and relevant indicators of running economy (i.e. the reciprocal of metabolic cost) in humans featuring different running levels (i.e. occasional, skilled and top runners categorized primarily upon their best marathon time); b) to develop imaging based bi- and three-dimensional methods to analyse static symmetries recorded by Magnetic Resonance Imaging (lower limbs and pelvic area); c) to describe the kinematic symmetries defining both the Digital Locomotory Signature and the Symmetry Index; finally, d) to investigate running economy as a performance determinant. In effect, both the 2D/3D analysis of static symmetries highlight very few differences among runners; however, a strong relationship between ankle and knee areas has been underlined in all runners. Furthermore, independently of training ability: as expected, 1) the BCOM raises and lifts slightly as a function of running speed; 2) right and left steps are mostly asymmetrical in the forward direction and symmetrical in the vertical direction (i.e. combined action of gravity and ground reaction force); 3) differently to what was expected, slight differences have been found among runners. On the whole, the asymmetry is probably related both to anatomy and handedness. Other than that, no running economy differences were found. In conclusion, while a relationship between symmetries and running economy has not been found, significant results have however been underlined in each trial (static and dynamic symmetries). Finally, the deep investigation of both bioenergetics (treadmill versus over-ground) and biomechanics (simple/complex variables and spatial/temporal variability of the BCOM) of running has highlights only little (significant) differences among groups.

Dans le contexte du développement des machines moléculaires, l'objet de ce travail est la synthèse de solides cristallins amphidynamiques basés sur des rotors 1,4-diéthynylbicyclo[2.2.2]octane (BCO) fonctionnels, auto-assemblés ou organisés par coordination à un métal. Ces rotors chiraux possèdent deux degrés de liberté caractérisés à l'état solide de deux manières indépendantes. Des expériences de relaxation spin-réseau du proton en fonction de la température pour étudier le mouvement de rotation du rotor hélicoïdal sur son axe ont été réalisées. De plus, des expériences d'optique non-linéaire ont mis en évidence la génération d'un signal de seconde harmonique, conséquente au mouvement de torsion des pales de l'hélice au sein de 'mutamères'. Les expériences de RMN du solide, réalisées sur des échantillons polycristallins statiques (barrières expérimentales de rotation et fréquence des sauts stochastiques du BCO) ont été couplées à des calculs d'énergie d'interaction des rotors avec leur environnement (barrières de rotation). Nous avons montré qu'il est possible d'interpréter la dynamique au sein de ces systèmes et notamment la très grande influence des liaisons hydrogènes au sein de l'environnement proche de la partie mobile sur la rotation du rotor. En parallèle, des expériences d'optique non linéaire sur monocristal ont mis en évidence la brisure de symétrie d'inversion de l'espace inhérente au changement de configuration hélice-gauche / hélice-droite du BCO. Dans le but d'exploiter cette propriété optique singulière, des stratégies de synthèse organique et d'ingénierie cristalline ont été mises en place afin de diriger l'orientation des rotors lors de leur assemblage au sein des matériaux. Cela permet d'obtenir des objets pour lesquels la présence d'une réponse en optique non-linéaire est directement corrélée à la dimensionnalité du système étudié.

Ma Chi Kwong.
Thesis (M.Phil.)--Chinese University of Hong Kong, 2003.
Includes bibliographical references (leaves 71-80).
Abstracts in English and Chinese.
Chapter Chapter 1 --- Abstract --- p.4-7
Chapter Chapter 2 --- Introduction & Literature Review --- p.8-20
Chapter Chapter 3 --- Study 1 - Method --- p.21-26
Chapter Chapter 4 --- Study 1 - Results & Discussion --- p.27-34
Chapter Chapter 5 --- Study 2 - Introduction --- p.35-42
Chapter Chapter 6 --- Study 2 -Method --- p.43-45
Chapter Chapter 7 --- Study 2 - Results & Discussion --- p.46-58
Chapter Chapter 8 --- General Discussion --- p.59-70
Reference --- p.71-80
Appendix --- p.81-87

Dissertação de Mestrado em Engenharia Informática apresentada à Faculdade de Ciências e Tecnologia
Quando se trata de perceber qual a plataforma blockchain que melhor se adequa às necessidades existentes, é necessário avaliar o seu desempenho em diversos ambientes que possam surgir. Esta avaliação pode ser conseguida recorrendo a ferramentas de testes de benchmark que consigam estudar estas plataformas. Ao longo deste documento é realizado um estudo acerca da teoria subjacente à tecnologia blockchain e das várias plataformas que a implementam. Foram também recolhidos e analisados estudos existentes na área do benchmarking de plataformas blockchain que foram fundamentais tanto para a escolha da ferramenta de benchmark a utilizar como para perceber como era realizado o benchmark em si. Com o propósito de proceder à avaliação do desempenho das plataformas blockchain, neste trabalho, foi implementado um sistema que conseguisse analisar as plataformas Hyperledger Fabric e FISCO BCOS. Este sistema tem como base a ferramenta Hyperledger Caliper. Dos testes executados foi possível recolher métricas relativas à latência, throughput, send rate, tempo de execução, consumo de CPU e de memória RAM e o número de transações bem sucedidas. Analisando os resultados obtidos, é possível concluir, de uma forma geral, que os comportamentos das plataformas blockchain estudadas são muito distintos. Sendo que a Hyperledger Fabric apresenta um desempenho mais constante e estável que o da FISCO BCOS. É verificado que o tipo de operação que é realizada, o uso de mecanismo de consenso e a utilização de diferentes bases de dados são factores que influenciam diretamente a performance da plataforma Fabric.
When it comes to understanding which blockchain platforms is best suited to existing needs, it is necessary to evaluate its performance in different environments that may arise. This assessment can be achieved using benchmark testing tools that can study these platforms. Throughout this document, a study is carried out on the theory underlying blockchain technology and the various platforms that implement it. Existing studies in the area of benchmarking of blockchain platforms were also collected and analyzed, which were fundamental, both for the choice of the benchmark tool to be used, and for understanding how the benchmark itself was carried out. In order to assess the performance of the blockchain platforms, in this work, a system was implemented that could analyze the Hyperledger Fabric and FISCO BCOS platforms. This system is based on the Hyperledger Caliper tool. From the tests performed, it was possible to collect metrics related to latency, throughput, send rate, execution time, CPU and RAM consumption and the number of successful transactions. Analyzing the results obtained, it is possible to conclude, in general, that the behaviors of the studied blockchain platforms are very different. Hyperledger Fabric has a more constant and stable performance than FISCO BCOS. It is verified that the type of operation that is performed, the use of a consensus mechanism and the use of different databases are factors that directly influence the performance of the Fabric platform.

The utilization of in vitro tests with a tiered testing strategy for detection of mild ocular irritants can reduce the use of animals for testing, provide mechanistic data on toxic effects, and reduce the uncertainty associated with dose selection for clinical trials. The first section of this thesis describes how in vitro methods can be used to improve the prediction of the toxicity of chemicals and ophthalmic products. The proper utilization of in vitro methods can accurately predict toxic threshold levels and reduce animal use in product development. Sections two, three and four describe the development of new sensitive in vitro methods for predicting ocular toxicity. Maintaining the barrier function of the cornea is critical for the prevention of the penetration of infections microorganisms and irritating chemicals into the eye. Chapter 2 describes the development of a method for assessing the effects of chemicals on tight junctions using a human corneal epithelial and canine kidney epithelial cell line. In Chapter 3 a method that uses a primary organ culture for assessing single instillation and multiple instillation toxic effects is described. The ScanTox system was shown to be an ideal system to monitor the toxic effects over time as multiple readings can be taken of treated bovine lenses using the nondestructive method of assessing for the lens optical quality. Confirmations of toxic effects were made with the utilization of the viability dye alamarBlue. Chapter 4 describes the development of sensitive in vitro assays for detecting ocular toxicity by measuring the effects of chemicals on the mitochondrial integrity of bovine cornea, bovine lens epithelium and corneal epithelial cells, using fluorescent dyes. The goal of this research was to develop an in vitro test battery that can be used to accurately predict the ocular toxicity of new chemicals and ophthalmic formulations. By comparing the toxicity seen in vivo animals and humans with the toxicity response in these new in vitro methods, it was demonstrated that these in vitro methods can be utilized in a tiered testing strategy in the development of new chemicals and ophthalmic formulations.