bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effect of montmorillonite on wettability and microstructure properties of zein/montmorillonite nanocomposite nanofiber mats
Authors: Park Jae Hyeung , Park Sung Min , Kim Young Hwa , Oh Weontae , Lee Gang Woo , Karim Mohammad Rezaul , Park Jun Ho , Yeum Jeong Hyun
Published: February 2012

Zein is a hydrophobic protein produced from maize and has great potential in a number of industrial applications such as food, food coating and food packaging. The objectives of this study are to determine the effects of montmorillonite on the wettability and microstructure properties of zein/montmorillonite nanocomposite nanofiber mats fabricated by the electrospinning technique in ethyl alcohol aqueous solution. The zein/montmorillonite nanofiber mats were characterized by field-emission scanning electron microscopy, transmission electron microscopy, X-ray diffraction, differential scanning calorimetry, thermogravimetric analysis and contact angle measurements. This study shows that the introduction of montmorillonite resulted in the improvement of the thermal stability and hydrophilicity for the zein matrix. X-ray diffraction patterns and transmission electron microscopy micrographs suggest the coexistence of intercalated montmorillonite layers over the examined montmorillonite contents. Since montmorillonite is a hydrophilic clay, its addition can be used not only to produce nanomaterials with the already known improved properties but also to enhance the hydrophilicity of material.
The effect of catalyzer in the matrix on the structure and performance of carbon/carbon composite
Authors: Yangfei Chen , Shaoyi Xiao , Hui Chen , Hongbo Liu
Published: February 2012

To understand the effect of the catalyzer in phenolic matrix on the structure and performance of carbon/carbon composite, the three elements of boron, iron and chromium are used to modify carbon matrix resin. The results show that the introduction of the catalyzer changes the degree of graphitization, density and interface bonding conditions of the sample. The electric conductivity, mechanical property and tribological properties of carbon/carbon composite are closely related to matrix carbon containing the catalyzer. This is specifically represented as that the graphitizing by catalyzer can significantly reduce the resistivity of composites; graphitizing by catalyzer improves the fracture toughness of composites but will reduce the flexural strength; appropriate catalyzer can improve the friction performance of carbon/carbon composite.
Assessment of fatigue parameters of dental resin composites using dynamic fatigue testing
Authors: Jabbari YS Al , Mparmpagadaki A , Zinelis S , Eliades G
Published: February 2012

The fatigue parameters of dental resin composites Ceram-X Mono, Clearfil Majesty and Saremco Els were studied. The dynamic fatigue method was used to obtain the crack growth exponent n and a material constant dependent on the test environment and initial material strength, σfo, through linear regression analysis. Clearfil Majesty showed a lower n than Ceram-X Mono and Saremco Els, but the highest σfo. Fractographic analysis revealed that the fracture origin was located on or near the surface opposite to loading. Fatigue parameters obtained from dynamic testing provide significant information about the mechanical degradation rate of the materials.
Chinese teachers’ evaluation criteria as reflected in narrative student evaluations: Implications for psychological services in schools
Authors: Ni Hong , Jones Constance , Bruning Roger
Published: February 2012

To increase school psychologists’ understanding of school contextual culture in China, this study used a qualitative research method to investigate 30 Chinese elementary school teachers’ evaluation criteria as reflected in narrative student evaluations. In the study, 450 narrative student evaluations were coded and analysed. Overall, results showed that Chinese teachers’ evaluation criteria primarily included moral development, effort and learning, as they were referenced most frequently in students’ narrative evaluations. Teachers’ positive comments tended to focus on moral character, effort, and learning; negative comments tended to focus on effort, behavior, and learning. Implications are discussed for school psychological services in China and in other countries with a cultural orientation different from the Western individualist culture.
Feasibility of Dual Wireless Esophageal pH Monitoring
Authors: Francis David O. , Sumner Eric , Goutte Marion , Slaughter James C. , Garrett C. Gaelyn , Hagaman David , Vaezi Michael F.
Published: February 2012

Objective

Wireless pH monitoring is currently employed in the distal esophagus. There are no controlled studies on the feasibility/safety of proximal esophageal wireless pH capsule placement. We tested the hypothesis that there will be no difference in patient perception of a more proximally placed pH capsule.

Study Design

Randomized single‐blinded sham‐controlled trial.

Setting

Tertiary care center.

Subjects and Methods

All patients had a wireless pH capsule positioned 6 cm proximal to the gastroesophageal junction. They were randomized into intervention or sham groups after distal capsule placement. The delivery introducer was positioned 10 cm proximal to the distal esophageal capsule, and a second capsule was either deployed (intervention) or not (sham) based on group allocation. Patients were blinded to group assignment. Modified Edmonton Score was used to assess for chest pain, dysphagia, and odynophagia. The primary endpoints were (1) required endoscopic removal because of discomfort and (2) change in chest pain scores, controlling for baseline pain.

Results

Patients were randomized to either the intervention, proximal esophageal capsule (n = 11), or sham (n = 11). Patients with proximal pH probes had higher odds of having their chest pain (odds ratio [OR], 8.44; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.35‐52.6; P =. 02), odynophagia (OR, 49.5; 95% CI, 4.70‐520; P =. 001), and dysphagia (OR, 14.3; 95% CI, 2.12‐96.6; P =. 006) exacerbated. Two (2/11; 18%) proximally deployed probes required endoscopic removal because of patient intolerance or discomfort.

Conclusion

A proximal esophageal wireless pH monitor placement is feasible but results in increased chest pain, odynophagia, and dysphagia that can be severe enough to require endoscopic removal. These limitations preclude its potential clinical benefit.
Management of Dysphonic Patients by Otolaryngologists
Authors: Cohen Seth M. , Pitman Michael J. , Noordzij J. Pieter , Courey Mark
Published: February 2012

Objective

To investigate common treatment approaches of general otolaryngologists for adult dysphonic patients without obvious laryngeal anatomic abnormalities.

Study Design

Cross‐sectional survey.

Setting

General otolaryngology community.

Subjects and Methods

One thousand randomly chosen American Academy of Otolaryngology—Head and Neck Surgery general otolaryngologists were mailed a survey.

Results

The response rate was 27.8%. Mean years in practice was 19.5. The most common treatments were proton pump inhibitor (PPI), referral to speech pathology, and stroboscopy. Muscle tension dysphonia, vocal fold nodules, and dysphonia of uncertain etiology were the most common reasons for voice therapy referral. Various forms of supraglottic compression and tender extralaryngeal muscles were identified as findings of muscle tension dysphonia. Response to once‐daily PPI, laryngeal signs, and throat symptoms were the most common determinants for laryngopharyngeal reflux. When patients failed initial treatment, 58.2% refer for voice therapy, 46.9% obtain stroboscopy, and 33.3% extend or increase duration of PPI treatment.

Conclusions

Varied treatment approaches to adult dysphonic patients were identified. How practice patterns vary from best practice guidelines, affect patient outcome, and influence health care costs needs examination.
Normalization of the stress concentrations at the rounded edges of a shaft–hub interference fit: extension to the case of a hollow shaft
Authors: Croccolo Dario , De Agostinis Massimiliano , Vincenzi Nicolò
Published: February 2012

This work addresses the issue of stress concentrations at the rounded edges of shaft–hub interference fits. An infinitely long shaft, press fitted into a hollow hub with bore rounded edges is examined. Limited to interference fits involving a solid shaft, Strozzi and colleagues introduced a normalizing parameter, which accounts for the combined effects on the stress concentrations of the fillet radius, the shaft external radius and the interference level. The aim of this work is to extend the field of application of the said normalizing parameter, to the case of interference fits involving a hollow shaft. By means of finite element analysis, run-on geometries with different hub and shaft aspect ratios (ratio between internal and external diameters), charts for stress concentration factors as functions of the normalizing parameter were drawn. Appropriate functions are proposed, which allow obtaining the stress concentration factors valid for the case of hollow shaft, starting from the stress concentration factors valid for the case of solid shaft. The stress concentration factors predicted by means of this novel method are then compared with those provided by finite element analysis. Stress concentration factors in the presence of hollow shafts are demonstrated to be always higher than those evaluated for solid shafts. Finally, a numerical example illustrates the typical workflow to be followed in order to calculate the stress concentration factor for a defined joint.
Examining Differences in Attitudes About Sexual Victimization Among a Sample of Jail Officers
Authors: Cook Carrie L. , Lane Jodi
Published: February 2012

The current study examined attitudes about inmate-on-inmate sexual assault among a sample of correctional officers. The study uniquely surveyed a jail sample of correctional officers, a context that has been ignored in the research on correctional officer perceptions of sexual victimization. The study measured officer attitudes toward victim blaming, credibility of inmates who report sexual assault, definitions of sexual assault, and willingness to respond to assault incidents. Additionally, the study examined gender differences in attitudes toward victimization and attitudes toward varying types of inmates. Overall, correctional officers assigned varying levels of blame and credibility to inmates who report sexual assault. Male and female officers also had significantly different attitudes about victim blaming and credibility of inmates. In addition, the sample held diverse views of what constitutes sexual assault and their preferred responses to the issue of sexual victimization. Implications for correctional policy, training, and avenues for continued research are discussed.
Organochlorine pesticide residues in biological compartments of healthy mothers
Authors: Elserougy Safaa , Beshir Safia , Saad-Hussein Amal , AbouArab Assem
Published: February 2012

The present study was conducted to detect placental and breast milk (BM) transfer of organochlorine pesticides (OCPs) between biological compartments in healthy lactating mothers. The study explores the effect of parity, breast-feeding and urban/rural residence on body burden of OCP residues. The study included 38 healthy participants submitted to cesarean delivery. Sociodemographic data and specimens of maternal and umbilical sera, adipose tissue (Adp T) and BM were collected. Specimens were analyzed to detect OCP residues. The lindane in BM, o,p′-dichlorodiphenyldichloroethane (DDD) in maternal serum (MS) and total dichlorodiphenyltrichloroethane (DDT) and o,p′-dichlorodiphenyldichloroethylene in umbilical serum were the only detected residues in significantly higher frequencies and/or means in the primigravidae than multigravidae. There was a high risk of detecting o,p′-DDD (odds ratio = 8.3) in umbilical serum of the mothers with o,p′-DDD detected in the MS. Total DDT was detected in about 65% of specimens of BM, MS and Adp T and in about 40% of the umbilical serum specimens. There was only a significant positive correlation between total DDT residues in the BM and Adp T. Total DDT residues in umbilical serum and Adp T were significantly higher in the urban than in the rural mothers. The detection of some OCPs in maternal biological compartments suggests their potential placental and BM transfer to her child during pregnancy and lactation, respectively. Furthermore, it might reflect the persistence or recent use of these pesticides in the environment.
Surveying Models in Urban Land Studies
Authors: Silva Elisabete , Wu Ning
Published: February 2012

Modern urban regions are highly complex entities. Despite the difficulty of modeling every relevant aspect of an urban region, researchers have produced a rich variety of models dealing with the manifold processes of urban change. This article reviews the models discussed in the literature in order to understand the most important aspects in modeling for urban studies currently. It starts by making a comprehensive review of the sixty-four models mentioned in the literature, and then “zooms in,” detailing only the dynamic models (considered at the forefront of the fifth generation of systems theory). The issues explored include each model’s subject areas and main goals, scales of analysis, and technologies used. Building on the previous criteria, the article aims to present a guide to existent models and point out future directions toward new technology developments in urban studies.
Digitisation of local heritage: Local studies collections and digitisation in public libraries
Authors: Smith Lucy , Rowley Jennifer
Published: February 2012

This study explores the application of digitisation in the context of public library local studies services. Since there has been limited previous research on digitisation and local studies collections, this research makes an important contribution in profiling the current situation, and highlighting the extent to which progress is limited in the digitisation of valuable local studies collections. A two-phased approach was adopted, including a website analysis, and semi-structured interviews with 12 local studies librarians and three other key informants. Findings indicate that the local studies services have established a limited online presence, and have used digitisation to some extent to promote and improve accessibility to their collections. All interviewees appreciated the potential of digitisation, but digitisation has not been adopted as a major strategy for preservation, due to lack of funding, and concerns about the longevity of digital records.
Developing International Managerial Skills Through the Cross-Cultural Assignment
Authors: Neiva de Figueiredo João , Mauri Alfredo J.
Published: February 2012

This article describes the “Cross-cultural Assignment,” an experiential learning technique for students of business that deepens self-awareness of their own attitudes toward different cultures and develops international managerial skills. The technique consists of pairing up small teams of U.S.-based business students with small teams of international students from the same country, who are not yet completely fluent in English, to form augmented teams that then need to execute tasks and produce several end-products. This pedagogical method has been used successfully in recent years in international management and international business courses for both lower-classman and upper-classman undergraduate business students and for students in graduate MBA programs. The article positions the technique within the literature on experiential learning and cultural differences, describes the methodology in detail, offers several examples of its use, and discusses the benefits and challenges observed in its implementation.
Ramipril and Telmisartan Exhibit Differential Effects in Cardiac Pressure Overload-Induced Hypertrophy Without an Additional Benefit of the Combination of Both Drugs
Authors: Müller Patrick , Kazakov Andrey , Semenov Alexander , Jagoda Philippe , Friedrich Erik B. , Böhm Michael , Laufs Ulrich
Published: February 2012

Objectives:

We aimed to characterize different cellular effects of angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors (ACEIs) and angiotensin 1 (AT1) receptor blockers (ARBs) as mono- or combination therapy in cardiac pressure overload.

Methods and Results:

C57B1/6 mice received either the ACEI ramipril (2.5 mg/kg body weight), the ARB telmisartan (20 mg/kg body weight), or the combination. In all groups, pressure overload was induced by transverse aortic constriction (TAC). Cardiac hypertrophy (heart weight/tibia length) induced by TAC was reduced in all 3 treatment groups, with the most pronounced effect in the telmisartan group. The cardiomyocyte short-axis diameter and cardiac fibrosis were increased by TAC and similarly reduced by ACEI, ARB, and the combination therapy. The TAC-induced increase in the number of proliferating Ki67pos cardiomyocytes and noncardiomyocytes was reduced more potently by ACEI than by ARB. Four days of drug treatment induced a significant increase in Scalpos/VEGFR1pos endothelial progenitor cells (EPCs) in all animals in the treated SHAM groups. After 1 day of aortic constriction, only ramipril increased EPC numbers; after 5 weeks, telmisartan monotherapy did not change the EPC levels compared to vehicle or the combination therapy but raised it compared to ramipril. Neither TAC nor one of the therapies changed the number of cardiac capillaries per cardiomyocytes.

Conclusions:

ACE inhibition and AT1 receptor blockade have beneficial effects in remodeling processes during cardiac pressure overload. There are small differences between the 2 therapeutical approaches, but the combination therapy has no additional benefit.
Myocardial Ischemia Reperfusion Injury
Authors: Frank Anja , Bonney Megan , Bonney Stephanie , Weitzel Lindsay , Koeppen Michael , Eckle Tobias
Published: February 2012

Myocardial ischemia reperfusion injury contributes to adverse cardiovascular outcomes after myocardial ischemia, cardiac surgery or circulatory arrest. Primarily, no blood flow to the heart causes an imbalance between oxygen demand and supply, named ischemia (from the Greek isch, restriction; and haema, blood), resulting in damage or dysfunction of the cardiac tissue. Instinctively, early and fast restoration of blood flow has been established to be the treatment of choice to prevent further tissue injury. Indeed, the use of thrombolytic therapy or primary percutaneous coronary intervention is the most effective strategy for reducing the size of a myocardial infarct and improving the clinical outcome. Unfortunately, restoring blood flow to the ischemic myocardium, named reperfusion, can also induce injury. This phenomenon was therefore termed myocardial ischemia reperfusion injury. Subsequent studies in animal models of acute myocardial infarction suggest that myocardial ischemia reperfusion injury accounts for up to 50% of the final size of a myocardial infarct. Consequently, many researchers aim to understand the underlying molecular mechanism of myocardial ischemia reperfusion injury to find therapeutic strategies ultimately reducing the final infarct size. Despite the identification of numerous therapeutic strategies at the bench, many of them are just in the process of being translated to bedside. The current review discusses the most striking basic science findings made during the past decades that are currently under clinical evaluation, with the ultimate goal to treat patients who are suffering from myocardial ischemia reperfusion–associated tissue injury.
Profiling the passenger: mobilities, identities, embodiments
Authors: Adey Peter , Bissell David , McCormack Derek , Merriman Peter
Published: February 2012

What makes the figure of the passenger distinctive as both a subject and an object of mobility and transportation systems? What distinguishes the passenger from other mobile subjectivities, from nomad, flaneur to consumer? How is the passenger represented, practiced and performed? How has the passenger and their experiences been conceived, imagined, manipulated, regulated and engineered? And what kind of human-technology assemblages do passengers enact? Through four short perspectives, this paper seeks to ‘profile’ the passenger as a distinctive historical and conceptual figure that can help to add greater precision to the analysis of our mobile ways of life. The passenger is explored as an object of speculative theoretical debate, a figure entangled in a host of identities, practices, performances and contexts, and an important way to illuminate key conceptual problematics, from representation to embodiment.
Current status of lung transplantation
Authors: Mahida Rahul Y , Wiscombe Sarah , Fisher Andrew J
Published: February 2012

Lung transplantation is a well-established treatment option for selected patients with end-stage lung disease, leading to improved survival and improved quality of life. The last 20 years have seen a steady growth in number of lung transplantation procedures performed worldwide. The increase in clinical activity has been associated with tremendous progress in the understanding of cellular and molecular processes that limit both short- and long-term outcomes. This review gives a comprehensive overview of the current status of lung transplantation for the referring physician. It demonstrates that careful selection of potential recipients, optimisation of their condition prior to transplant, use of carefully assessed donor organs, excellent surgery and meticulous long-term follow-up are all essential ingredients in determining a successful outcome.
Mathematica simulation of peristaltic pumping with double-diffusive convection in nanofluids: a bio-nano-engineering model
Authors: Bég O Anwar , Tripathi Dharmendra
Published: February 2012

A theoretical study is presented to examine the peristaltic pumping with double-diffusive (thermal and concentration diffusive) convection in nanofluids through a deformable channel. The model is motivated by the need to explore nanofluid dynamic effects on peristaltic transport in biological vessels as typified by transport of oxygen and carbon dioxide, food molecules, ions, wastes, hormones and heat in blood flow. Analytical approximate solutions are obtained under the restrictions of large wavelength ([Formula: see text]) and low Reynolds number ([Formula: see text]), for nanoparticle fraction field, concentration field, temperature field, axial velocity, volume flow rate, pressure gradient and stream function in terms of axial and transverse coordinates, transverse vibration of the wall, amplitude of the wave and averaged flow rate. The influence of the dominant hydrodynamic parameters (Brownian motion, thermophoresis, Dufour and Soret) and Grashof numbers (thermal, concentration, nanoparticle) on peristaltic flow patterns with double-diffusive convection are discussed with the help of computational results obtained with the Mathematica software. The classical Newtonian viscous model constitutes a special case ([Formula: see text]) of the present model. Applications of the study include novel pharmaco-dynamic pumps and engineered gastro-intestinal motility enhancement.
Reading Animation through the Eyes of Anthropology: A Case Study of sub-Saharan African Animation
Authors: Callus Paula
Published: February 2012

This article aims to present an argument for why anthropology could provide animation studies with a new set of critical models that move away from the dominant paradigms that currently circulate in Western academic discourse. The author discusses how these models can be drawn upon when reading animation and she utilizes supporting examples of sub-Saharan animations to promote the benefits of an interdisciplinary approach to reading animation. This approach is bidirectional, flowing from anthropology to animation studies and the reverse. Where this article shows how animation theory stands to gain from anthropology, it will also illustrate how one can include animation in the visual anthropologist’s methodology.
Falls into via ferrata climbing sets carry a higher injury risk for lightweight climbers
Authors: Pasching Emrich , Diem Eckehard , Litzenberger Stefan , Sabo Anton
Published: February 2012

A via ferrata (Italian for ‘iron road’) is a climbing route with fixed iron climbing aids in steep, rocky mountain terrain. Climbers attach themselves to the climbing aids with a via ferrata set (a certain safety equipment designed for vie ferrate) and a harness. In case of a fall the via ferrata set should prevent injuries by reducing the deceleration of the falling body. Different standards exist worldwide for the deceleration and forces acting in the case of a fall; the European standard is evaluated for 80 kg heavy individuals. In this paper the acceleration and force differences for different climber weights – especially lightweight climbers – are evaluated. For this purpose four different NCAP frontal crash dummies representing humans of different weights and ages (3 y, 15 kg; 10 y, 34 kg; female adult, 48 kg; male adult, 77 kg) were dropped from a height of 5 m into different via ferrata sets. During a fall accelerations and braking forces were measured, A/D converted with a frequency of 1024 Hz and 1000 Hz, respectively and recorded on a PC. Additionally synchronous video data were recorded with two cameras (240 fps, 448 [Formula: see text] 336 px). A total of eight via ferrata sets of two different types were evaluated: (1) modern web-based sets where a webbing is ripped apart and absorbs energy (tearing energy absorbers), and (2) cheaper rope-braking systems which absorb energy by friction (friction energy absorbers). The results show that the maximum braking forces allowed in the European standard were exceeded in several cases. Maximum braking distances were not used to full capacity in any of the trials. Thus, falls could have caused injuries especially for lightweight climbers. Hence, according to the gathered data a minimum weight limit for via ferrata sets should be established. European standards should be adopted in consideration of the presented results of this study.
Impact performance of ice hockey helmets: head acceleration versus focal force dispersion
Authors: Ouckama Ryan , Pearsall David J
Published: February 2012

Modern sport helmets certified to various international safety standards have virtually eliminated the incidence of cranial fracture and fatal brain injury in contact sports; however, the occurrence of diffuse brain injuries (mTBI) are still prevalent. Local contact mechanics between the colliding surface (helmet/head) need to be considered as global measures of acceleration and are insensitive to load distribution measures which are indicative of helmet performance. The purpose of this study was to demonstrate the ability to capture localized load distribution response between the helmet and headform and to examine factors that may influence these measures. Twenty-five flexible force sensors were arranged in a 5 × 5 array about three impact sites (front, side, rear) of a 575 mm EN960 headform. Test factors included helmet model (5), impact location (3) and temperature (21 °C, −25 °C) as well as repeated impacts (3). Testing procedure followed the CSA Z262.1-09 standard at the defined locations. Average error calculated during sensor calibration was 2.8 ± 1% with an R2 value of 0.987 ± 0.009. As expected, peak global force correlated well to peak acceleration ( R2 = 0.98) but weakly corresponded to peak focal force ( R2 = 0.22). Furthermore, both load distribution magnitudes and patterns were found to vary substantially with mixed effects between helmet models, impact locations, and temperatures. Given these findings, this novel approach may be used to quantify local contact mechanics between the colliding surface/helmet/head.
Myelofibrosis 2012: it’s complicated
Authors: Hubbeling Harper G. , Frank Dale M. , Hexner Elizabeth O.
Published: February 2012

Major advances in myeloproliferative neoplasms in the last decade have cast light on their complexity. The identification of JAK2V617F briefly promised a unifying mechanism of pathogenesis with a single pathway that could be efficiently targeted. Instead, there have been major advances in understanding acquired and background genetic and epigenetic contributors to this group of disorders, with refined risk prediction models and experimental therapeutics that have provided a more nuanced model of disease. In aggregate these observations likely explain the heterogeneity of these disorders and their generally unpredictable response to therapy. Molecular studies, beginning with the identification of JAK2V617F, have led to a concept of MPN subtypes existing on a continuum, and additional discoveries such as TET2 and EZH2 mutations have provided the molecular underpinnings to begin to explain overlapping phenotypes in myeloid malignancies more generally. In many ways the pace of molecular discovery is outstripping our ability to integrate these observations into clinical care, both in terms of molecular diagnostics and medical decision making. This review will attempt to summarize, within a clinical context, our evolving understanding of myeloproliferative neoplasms. It focuses on biology, histopathology, prognostic scoring systems, stem cell transplantation as well as selected clinical/preclinical therapeutic observations.
Role of Yoga in Preventing and Controlling Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus
Authors: Sharma Manoj , Knowlden Adam P.
Published: February 2012

Yoga has been suggested as a complementary and alternative treatment for type 2 diabetes mellitus. The purpose of this study was to review studies using yoga in preventing or controlling diabetes. Inclusion criteria were as follows: (1) conducted between 1993 and September 2011; (2) published in the English language; (3) used yoga asanas, pranayama, or dhyana as intervention; (4) involved diabetic patients and healthy volunteers, with insulin or glucose levels as outcomes, or individuals at risk for diabetes; (5) used any quantitative design; and (6) had biochemical, physiological, anthropometric, or clinical outcomes. A total of 17 studies met the inclusion criteria. Of these studies, 15 used yoga asanas, 12 used pranayama, and 1 each used shatkriyas (cleansing exercises) and yoga nidra (relaxation). Of the 11 studies that measured changes in fasting blood glucose, 9 showed significant decrease. Limitations include lack of theory-based approach, small sample sizes, and inability to gauge adherence.
The Role of School Environment in Teacher Dissatisfaction Among U.S. Public School Teachers
Authors: Moore Cara M.
Published: February 2012

This article discusses the relationship between the school environment and teacher dissatisfaction utilizing the 2007-2008 School and Staffing Survey. The school environment is defined through a social-ecological perspective which takes into account the hierarchical nature of schools. Teacher dissatisfaction was quantified through a composite of variables that asked teachers about their overall feelings regarding the profession. A logistic regression was performed with teacher dissatisfaction as the criterion variable, and school environment variables and teacher background variables as predictors. School environment played a statistically significant role in the dissatisfaction of teachers. Specifically, teacher autonomy and principal leadership decreased the odds of teacher dissatisfaction, while student and community problems increased the odds of teacher dissatisfaction. Once school environment was taken into account, the log odds of teacher race, middle school status, and rural school locale increased while remaining statistically significant.
Outcome modeling with CRLF2, IKZF1, JAK, and minimal residual disease in pediatric acute lymphoblastic leukemia: a Children's Oncology Group Study
Authors: Chen I-Ming , Harvey Richard C. , Mullighan Charles G. , Gastier-Foster Julie , Wharton Walker , Kang Huining , Borowitz Michael J. , Camitta Bruce M. , Carroll Andrew J. , Devidas Meenakshi , Pullen D. Jeanette , Payne-Turner Debbie , Tasian Sarah K. , Reshmi Shalini , Cottrell Catherine E. , Reaman Gregory H. , Bowman W. Paul , Carroll William L. , Loh Mignon L. , Winick Naomi J. , Hunger Stephen P. , Willman Cheryl L.
Published: February 2012

As controversy exists regarding the prognostic significance of genomic rearrangements of CRLF2 in pediatric B-precursor acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) classified as standard/intermediate-risk (SR) or high-risk (HR), we assessed the prognostic significance of CRLF2 mRNA expression, CRLF2 genomic lesions (IGH@-CRLF2, P2RY8-CRLF2, CRLF2 F232C), deletion/mutation in genes frequently associated with high CRLF2 expression (IKZF1, JAK, IL7R), and minimal residual disease (MRD) in 1061 pediatric ALL patients (499 HR and 562 SR) on COG Trials P9905/P9906. Whereas very high CRLF2 expression was found in 17.5% of cases, only 51.4% of high CRLF2 expressors had CRLF2 genomic lesions. The mechanism underlying elevated CRLF2 expression in cases lacking known genomic lesions remains to be determined. All CRLF2 genomic lesions and virtually all JAK mutations were found in high CRLF2 expressors, whereas IKZF1 deletions/mutations were distributed across the full cohort. In multivariate analyses, NCI risk group, MRD, high CRLF2 expression, and IKZF1 lesions were associated with relapse-free survival. Within HR ALL, only MRD and CRLF2 expression predicted a poorer relapse-free survival; no difference was seen between cases with or without CRLF2 genomic lesions. Thus, high CRLF2 expression is associated with a very poor outcome in high-risk, but not standard-risk, ALL. This study is registered at www.clinicaltrials.gov as NCT00005596 and NCT00005603.
NOD/scid IL-2Rgnull mice: a preclinical model system to evaluate human dendritic cell-based vaccine strategies in vivo
Authors: Spranger Stefani , Frankenberger Bernhard , Schendel Dolores J
Published: February 2012

Background

To date very few systems have been described for preclinical investigations of human cellular therapeutics in vivo. However, the ability to carry out comparisons of new cellular vaccines in vivo would be of substantial interest for design of clinical studies. Here we describe a humanized mouse model to assess the efficacy of various human dendritic cell (DC) preparations. Two reconstitution regimes of NOD/scid IL2Rgnull (NSG) mice with adult human peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC) were evaluated for engraftment using 4-week and 9-week schedules. This led to selection of a simple and rapid protocol for engraftment and vaccine evaluation that encompassed 4 weeks.

Methods

NSG recipients of human PBMC were engrafted over 14 days and then vaccinated twice with autologous DC via intravenous injection. Three DC vaccine formulations were compared that varied generation time in vitro (3 days versus 7 days) and signals for maturation (with or without Toll-like receptor (TLR)3 and TLR7/8 agonists) using MART-1 as a surrogate antigen, by electroporating mature DC with in vitro transcribed RNA encoding full length protein. After two weekly vaccinations, the splenocyte populations containing human lymphocytes were recovered 7 days later and assessed for MART-1-specific immune responses using MHC-multimer-binding assays and functional assessment of specific killing of melanoma tumor cell lines.

Results

Human monocyte-derived DC generated in vitro in 3 days induced better MART-1-specific immune responses in the autologous donor T cells present in the humanized NSG mice. Moreover, consistent with our in vitro observations, vaccination using mature DC activated with TLR3 and TLR7/8 agonists resulted in enhanced immune responses in vivo. These findings led to a ranking of the DC vaccine effects in vivo that reflected the hierarchy previously found for these mature DC variations in vitro.

Conclusions

This humanized mouse model system enables comparisons among different DC vaccine types to be rapidly assessed in vivo. In addition, ex vivo analyses of human CD3+ T cells recovered from the spleens of these mice are also possible, including studies on lymphocyte subsets, Th1/Th2 polarization, presence of regulatory T cells and the impact of DC vaccination on their functions.
Estrogen receptor (ESR) 2 partially offsets the absence of ESR1 in gonadotropes of pituitary-specific Esr1 knockout female mice
Authors: Sánchez-Criado José E , Trudgen Kourtney , Millán Yolanda , Blanco Alfonso , Monterde José , Garrido-Gracia José C , Gordon Ana , Aguilar Rafaela , Martín de las Mulas Juana , Ko CheMyong
Published: February 2012

Estrogen receptor 1 and 2 (ESR1 and 2) mediate estrogen (E) action on gonadotrope function. While much is known about the effects of ESR1 on the gonadotrope, there is still some controversy regarding the effects of ESR2. To investigate the role of ESR2 in the gonadotrope, 45-day-old female mice of two different genotypes were used: wild type (WT) and pituitary (gonadotropes and thyrotropes)-specificEsr1knockout (KO). All mice were ovariectomized (OVX) and 15 days later injected over 3 days with 2.5 μg 17β-estradiol (E2), 0.2 mg of the selective ESR1 or 2 agonists, propylpyrazole triol and diarylpropionitrile, respectively, or 0.1 ml oil. The day after treatment, anterior pituitary glands were dissected out for evaluation of gonadotrope ultrastructural morphology and pituitary immunohistochemical expression of progesterone receptor (Pgr(Pr)). Blood was collected and serum LH levels were assessed. Activation of ESR1 in WT mice resulted in the following: i) uterine ballooning and vaginal cornification, ii) negative feedback on LH secretion, iii) increased number of homogeneous (functional) gonadotropes, and iv) pituitaryPgrexpression (35.9±2.0% of pituitary cells). Activation of ESR1 in KO mice induced normal uterine, vaginal, and LH secretion responses, but failed to increase the number of functional gonadotropes, and induced significantly lowerPgrexpression (21.0±3.0% of pituitary cells) than in WT mice. Whilst activation of ESR2 had no significant effects in WT mice, it doubled the number of functional gonadotropes exhibited by KO mice injected with oil. It is concluded that E2exerted its action in KO mouse gonadotropes via ESR2.
Possible action of vasohibin-1 as an inhibitor in the regulation of vascularization of the bovine corpus luteum
Authors: Shirasuna Koumei , Kobayashi Ayumi , Nitta Akane , Nibuno Sayo , Sasahara Kiemi , Shimizu Takashi , Bollwein Heinrich , Miyamoto Akio
Published: February 2012

The development of the corpus luteum (CL), which secretes large amounts of progesterone to establish pregnancy, is accompanied by active angiogenesis, vascularization, and lymphangiogenesis. Negative feedback regulation is a critical physiological mechanism. Vasohibin-1 (VASH1) was recently discovered as a novel endothelium-derived negative feedback regulator of vascularization. We therefore investigated the expression of VASH1 in the bovine CL. Expression of VASH1 mRNA and protein was predominantly localized to luteal endothelial cells (LECs). VASH1 expression in the CL was constant through the early to late luteal phases and decreased during CL regression relating with the action of luteolytic prostaglandin F2α in vivo. To investigate the role of VASH1, we determined whether VASH1 treatment affects angiogenesis and/or lymphangiogenesis using LECs and lymphatic endothelial cells (LyECs) in vitro. Vascular endothelial growth factor A (VEGFA) stimulated the expression of VASH1 in LECs but not in LyECs, and VASH1 completely blocked VEGFA-induced formation of capillary-like tube structures of LECs and LyECs in vitro. In summary, VASH1 is predominantly located on LECs in the bovine CL and inhibits the angiogenic and lymphangiogenic actions of VEGFA. Bovine CL therefore has a VEGFA–VASH1 system that may be involved in regulation of luteal function, especially in the development of the CL. The results indicate that VASH1 has the potential to act as a negative feedback regulator of angiogenesis and lymphangiogenesis in the CL in cows.
Evaluation of respiratory parameters in minimally processed lettuce grown under organic or conventional system
Authors: Mello Júlio César , Dietrich Renato , Probst Luiz Fernando Dias , Amante Edna Regina
Published: February 2012

The increased preference for minimally processed vegetables has been attributed to the health benefits associated with fresh produce and the demand for ready-to-eat salads. In this paper, lettuce (Lactuca sativa L.) was evaluated for the effects of different cropping systems on the respiratory properties. Lettuce was packaged in low density polyethylene bags and stored in a refrigerator at 4 ºC. The concentration of carbon dioxide and oxygen inside the package was monitored during the storage at zero, three, six, eight, ten and twelve days by gas chromatography. Dry matter variation was measured gravimetrically up to day fourteen of storage. Values of respiratory rate for conventional lettuce increased from day 1 to 3 and remained low, while respiratory rate of the organic lettuce increased three-fold up to day 8, stabilizing at a high level. Variation in dry matter during storage also resulted from differences between the two cultivation systems. The highest content of dry matter was achieved by organic lettuce.
Espécies vegetais para cobertura do solo: influência sobre plantas daninhas e a produtividade do algodoeiro em sistema plantio direto
Authors: Ferreira Alexandre Cunha de Barcellos , Lamas Fernando Mendes
Published: February 2012

Este trabalho objetivou avaliar a produção, a persistência e os efeitos de coberturas vegetais sobre as plantas daninhas e a produtividade do algodoeiro em sistema plantio direto. Os tratamentos consistiram das espécies de cobertura: milheto (Pennisetum glaucum (L.) R. Brown), Brachiaria ruziziensis Germain & Evrard, sorgo forrageiro (Sorghum bicolor L. Moench), capim-pé-de-galinha (Eleusine coracana L. Gaerth), Crotalaria juncea L., Crotalaria spectabilis Roth, aveia-preta (Avena strigosa Schreb.), nabo forrageiro (Raphanus sativus L.), P. glaucum + C. juncea, P. glaucum + C. spectabilis, B. ruziziensis + C. juncea, B. ruziziensis + C. spectabilis, S. bicolor + C. juncea, S. bicolor + C. spectabilis, E. coracana + C. juncea, E. coracana + C. spectabilis, A. strigosa + R. sativus, P. glaucum + R. sativus e pousio. As espécies foram semeadas no final do verão, após a colheita de soja, e o algodoeiro BRS 269-Buriti, nove meses após. O delineamento experimental foi em blocos ao acaso, com quatro repetições. As espécies B. ruziziensis, B. ruziziensis + C. juncea, B. ruziziensis + C. spectabilis e P. glaucum + R. sativus produziram mais de 6,8 t ha-1 de biomassa seca. A palhada produzida pela B. ruziziensis garantiu boa cobertura do solo durante o ciclo do algodoeiro. A biomassa seca de B. ruziziensis, B. ruziziensis + C. juncea e B. ruziziensis + C. spectabilis reduziu a infestação de plantas daninhas até a época de semeadura do algodão e durante os estádios iniciais de seu desenvolvimento. Palhas de R. sativus e A. strigosa, solteiras e consorciadas, interferiram negativamente na produtividade do algodoeiro.
Propagação vegetativa de porta-enxertos de pereira por estacas semi-lenhosas
Authors: Feldberg Nelson Pires , Barbosa Wilson , Mayer Newton Alex , Santos Fernanda Motta da Costa
Published: February 2012

Pesquisou-se a viabilidade técnica da propagação vegetativa dos porta-enxertos de pereira 'Taiwan Nashi-C', 'Taiwan Mamenashi' (Pyrus calleryana Dcne.) e 'Seleção IAC-1' (Pyrus spp.), por estacas semi-lenhosas. O experimento foi conduzido em telado equipado com sistema de nebulização intermitente, pertencente ao Núcleo de Pesquisa e Desenvolvimento do Jardim Botânico, do Instituto Agronômico (IAC), em Campinas, Estado de São Paulo. Adotou-se o fatorial 3 x 4 (porta-enxertos x doses de ácido indolbutírico), com cinco repetições de 20 estacas, em delineamento inteiramente casualizado. Com os resultados obtidos aos 60 dias após a estaquia, conclui-se que: a) é tecnicamente possível a propagação dos porta-enxertos 'Taiwan Nashi-C', 'Taiwan Mamenashi' e 'Seleção IAC-1' por estacas semi-lenhosas; b) dentre os porta-enxertos pesquisados, 'Taiwan Nashi-C' apresenta a maior porcentagem de enraizamento, a menor porcentagem de estacas com calo, além do maior comprimento de raízes e número de raízes por estaca; c) é necessário o uso de ácido indolbutírico para o enraizamento de estacas semi-lenhosas desses porta-enxertos, sendo que, no conjunto das variáveis analisadas, as concentrações de 4.000 mg.L-1 e de 6.000 mg.L-1 proporcionam os maiores benefícios ao enraizamento adventício; d) as concentrações de ácido indolbutírico testadas não são fitotóxicas às estacas semi-lenhosas dos genótipos pesquisados.
Sulfato de amônio e uréia em cobertura no milho em semeadura direta no Cerrado
Authors: Lange Anderson , Cabezas Waldo Alejandro Ruben Lara , Trivelin Paulo César Ocheuze
Published: February 2012

A aplicação de nitrogênio no milho de forma antecipada, tanto na semeadura da planta de cobertura como em pré-semeadura pode otimizar os trabalhos dentro da propriedade. Objetivou-se avaliar a influência nas concentrações foliares e produtividade de grãos do milho do parcelamento do nitrogênio suplementar à semeadura em área de dois anos de soja, em solo de textura média e quantificar a recuperação do nitrogênio do sulfato de amônio e da úreia, utilizando a técnica da diluição isotópica (15N). Os tratamentos constaram da aplicação de 110 kg ha-1 de nitrogênio em épocas distintas: na semeadura do milheto -5 dias antes da semeadura do milho -em cobertura, quando as plantas tinham 5-7 folhas; -e em cobertura quando as plantas tinham 9-10 folhas. Há diferença de produtividade de grãos e concentrações foliares de nitrogênio, fósforo, cálcio e enxofre quando se aplica nitrogênio suplementar à semeadura em diferentes épocas em relação a ausência de fertilização. O parcelamento de 110 kg ha-1 entre pré-semeadura e cobertura ou apenas na cobertura não altera a recuperação total do fertilizante. A recuperação do nitrogênio do sulfato de amônio aplicado em cobertura é maior quando comparada à uréia, sendo ainda que o parcelamento de sulfato de amônio em cobertura apresenta maior recuperação em relação ao fornecimento em uma única aplicação.
S100, CD68, and MHC class II molecule expression in cervical high- and low-grade HPV-induced lesions
Authors: Cassandri Fernanda , Tozetti Inês Aparecida , Fernandes Carlos Eurico dos Santos , Almeida Flávia Gatto de , Falcão Gustavo Ribeiro , Scapulatempo Ilzia Doraci Lins , Prata Thiago Theodoro Martins , Padovani Cacilda Tezelli Junqueira , Alves Daniella Borges , Ferreira Alda Teixeira , Abdo Maria Auxiliadora Gomes Sandim
Published: February 2012

INTRODUCTION: Some human papillomavirus (HPV) types are involved in malignant processes in the cervical epithelium, with 99% of cases attributed to oncogenic HPV infection. This study aimed to detect S100, CD68, and major histocompatibility complex class II (MHC-II) molecules in cervical uterine epithelial samples in patients with high- and low-grade lesions induced by HPV. METHODS: Fifty-eight samples from patients who were confirmed positive or negative for high-risk oncogenic HPV DNA, had histopathological diagnosis of cervical intraepithelial neoplasia (CIN) of grades I, II, or III, or were negative for intraepithelial lesion or malignancy were subjected to immunohistochemistry reaction to S100 protein, CD68, and MHC-II (HLA-DR alpha chain). RESULTS: The presence of MHC-II predominated in samples exhibiting histopathological alterations (p < 0.05). S100 detection was more numerous in carcinoma samples (CIN III) (75%). Presence of this protein correlated significantly (p < 0.05) with histopathological findings and viral load. CONCLUSIONS: A small expression of CD68 was observed, which may be explained by the observation in our study having been made on random microscopic fields and not on specific areas. The findings, such as the presence of S100 protein and MHC-II expression in samples with histological alterations, could suggest that the immune system fails to control HPV replication at the early stages of infection. Further studies with larger prospective data are necessary to confirm this result.