bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Comparisons of protein profiles of beech bark disease resistant and susceptible American beech (Fagus grandifolia)
Authors: Mason Mary E , Koch Jennifer L , Krasowski Marek , Loo Judy
Published: January 2013

Background

Beech bark disease is an insect-fungus complex that damages and often kills American beech trees and has major ecological and economic impacts on forests of the northeastern United States and southeastern Canadian forests. The disease begins when exotic beech scale insects feed on the bark of trees, and is followed by infection of damaged bark tissues by one of the Neonectria species of fungi. Proteomic analysis was conducted of beech bark proteins from diseased trees and healthy trees in areas heavily infested with beech bark disease. All of the diseased trees had signs of Neonectria infection such as cankers or fruiting bodies. In previous tests reported elsewhere, all of the diseased trees were demonstrated to be susceptible to the scale insect and all of the healthy trees were demonstrated to be resistant to the scale insect. Sixteen trees were sampled from eight geographically isolated stands, the sample consisting of 10 healthy (scale-resistant) and 6 diseased/infested (scale-susceptible) trees.

Results

Proteins were extracted from each tree and analysed in triplicate by isoelectric focusing followed by denaturing gel electrophoresis. Gels were stained and protein spots identified and intensity quantified, then a statistical model was fit to identify significant differences between trees. A subset of BBD differential proteins were analysed by mass spectrometry and matched to known protein sequences for identification. Identified proteins had homology to stress, insect, and pathogen related proteins in other plant systems. Protein spots significantly different in diseased and healthy trees having no stand or disease-by-stand interaction effects were identified.

Conclusions

Further study of these proteins should help to understand processes critical to resistance to beech bark disease and to develop biomarkers for use in tree breeding programs and for the selection of resistant trees prior to or in early stages of BBD development in stands. Early identification of resistant trees (prior to the full disease development in an area) will allow forest management through the removal of susceptible trees and their root-sprouts prior to the onset of disease, allowing management and mitigation of costs, economic impact, and impacts on ecological systems and services.
TCR activation kinetics and feedback regulation in primary human T cells
Authors: Poltorak Mateusz , Arndt Boerge , Kowtharapu Bhavani S , Reddycherla Amarendra V , Witte Vanessa , Lindquist Jonathan A , Schraven Burkhart , Simeoni Luca
Published: January 2013

Background

Signaling through the TCR is crucial for the generation of different cellular responses including proliferation, differentiation, and apoptosis. A growing body of evidence indicates that differences in the magnitude and the duration of the signal are critical determinants in eliciting cellular responses.

Results

Here, we have analyzed signaling dynamics correlating with either unresponsiveness or proliferation induced upon TCR/CD28 ligation in primary human T cells. We used two widely employed methods to stimulate T cellsin vitro, antibodies either cross-linked in solution (sAbs) or immobilized on microbeads (iAbs). A comparative analysis of the signaling properties of iAbs and sAbs revealed that, under proliferation-inducing conditions, feedback regulation is markedly different from that leading to an unresponsive state. In fact, upon iAbs stimulation TCR-mediated signaling is prolonged by a positive feedback loop involving Erk, whereas sAbs strongly activate inhibitory molecules that likely terminate signaling. We additionally found that, by enhancing the phosphorylation of Src family kinases under proliferation-inducing conditions, signaling and T-cell activation are terminated.

Conclusions

In summary, our analysis documents TCR signaling kinetics and feedback regulation under conditions of stimulation inducing either unresponsiveness or proliferation.
Determine the quality of human embryonic stem colonies with laser light scattering patterns
Authors: Chen Chi-Shuo , Biasca Matthew , Le Catherine , Chen Eric Y-T , Hirleman E Daniel , Chin Wei-Chun
Published: January 2013

Background

With the prompt developments of regenerative medicine, the potential clinical applications of human embryonic stem cells have attracted intense attention. However, the labor-intensive and complex manual cell selection processes required during embryonic stem cell culturing have seriously limited large-scale production and broad applications. Thus, availability of a label-free, non-invasive platform to replace the current cumbersome manual selection has become a critical need.

Results

A non-invasive, label-free, and time-efficient optical platform for determining the quality of human embryonic stem cell colonies was developed by analyzing the scattering signals from those stem cell colonies. Additionally, confocal microscopy revealed that the cell colony morphology and surface structures were correlated with the resulting characteristic light scattering patterns. Standard immunostaining assay (Oct-4) was also utilized to validate the quality-determination from this light scattering protocol. The platform developed here can therefore provide identification accuracy of up to 87% for colony determination.

Conclusions

Our study here demonstrated that light scattering patterns can serve as a feasible alternative approach to replace conventional manual selection for human embryonic stem cell cultures.
Absence of IL-1β positively affects neurological outcome, lesion development and axonal plasticity after spinal cord injury
Authors: Boato Francesco , Rosenberger Karen , Nelissen Sofie , Geboes Lies , Peters Eva M , Nitsch Robert , Hendrix Sven
Published: January 2013

Precise crosstalk between the nervous and immune systems is important for neuroprotection and axon plasticity after injury. Recently, we demonstrated that IL-1β acts as a potent inducer of neurite outgrowth from organotypic brain slicesin vitro, suggesting a potential function of IL-1β in axonal plasticity. Here, we have investigated the effects of IL-1β on axon plasticity during glial scar formation and on functional recovery in a mouse model of spinal cord compression injury (SCI). We used an IL-1β deficiency model (IL-1βKO mice) and administered recombinant IL-1β. In contrast to our hypothesis, the histological analysis revealed a significantly increased lesion width and a reduced number of corticospinal tract fibers caudal to the lesion center after local application of recombinant IL-1β. Consistently, the treatment significantly worsened the neurological outcome after SCI in mice compared with PBS controls. In contrast, the absence of IL-1β in IL-1βKO mice significantly improved recovery from SCI compared with wildtype mice. Histological analysis revealed a smaller lesion size, reduced lesion width and greatly decreased astrogliosis in the white matter, while the number of corticospinal tract fibers increased significantly 5 mm caudal to the lesion in IL-1βKO mice relative to controls. Our study for the first time characterizes the detrimental effects of IL-1β not only on lesion development (in terms of size and glia activation), but also on the plasticity of central nervous system axons after injury.
Treatment needs, diagnoses and use of services for acutely admitted psychiatric patients in northwest Russia and northern Norway
Authors: Sørgaard Knut W , Rezvy Grigory , Bugdanov Anatoly , Sørlie Tore , Bratlid Trond
Published: January 2013

Background

We compared demography, diagnoses and clinical needs in acutely admitted psychiatric hospital patients in northwest Russia and northern Norway.

Method

All acutely admitted psychiatric patients in 1 psychiatric hospital in north-west Russia and 2 in northern Norway were in a three months period assessed with HoNOS and a Norwegian form developed to study acute psychiatric services (MAP). Data from a total of 841 patients were analysed (377 Norwegian, 464 Russian) with univariate and multivariate statistics.

Results

Russian patients were more often males who had paid work. 2/3 were diagnosed with alcohol and organic disorders, and 70% reported problems related to sleep. Depression was widespread, as were problems associated with occupation. Many more Norwegian patients were on various forms of social security and lived in community supported homes. They had a clinical profile of affective disorders, use of drugs, suicidality and problems with activities involved of daily life. Slightly more Norwegian patients were involuntary admitted.

Conclusion

Acutely admitted psychiatric patients in North West Russia and Northern Norwegian showed different clinical profiles: alcohol, depression and organic disorders characterised Russian patients, affective disorders, suicidality and use of drugs characterised the Norwegians. Whereas Norwegian patients are mainly referred from GPs the Russians come via 1.line psychiatric services (“dispensaries”). Average length of stay for Russian patients was 2.5 times longer than that of the Norwegian.
Simultaneous saccharification and co-fermentation for bioethanol production using corncobs at lab, PDU and demo scales
Authors: Koppram Rakesh , Nielsen Fredrik , Albers Eva , Lambert Annika , Wännström Sune , Welin Lars , Zacchi Guido , Olsson Lisbeth
Published: January 2013

Background

While simultaneous saccharification and co-fermentation (SSCF) is considered to be a promising process for bioconversion of lignocellulosic materials to ethanol, there are still relatively little demo-plant data and operating experiences reported in the literature. In the current work, we designed a SSCF process and scaled up from lab to demo scale reaching 4% (w/v) ethanol using xylose rich corncobs.

Results

Seven different recombinant xylose utilizing Saccharomyces cerevisiae strains were evaluated for their fermentation performance in hydrolysates of steam pretreated corncobs. Two strains, RHD-15 and KE6-12 with highest ethanol yield and lowest xylitol yield, respectively were further screened in SSCF using the whole slurry from pretreatment. Similar ethanol yields were reached with both strains, however, KE6-12 was chosen as the preferred strain since it produced 26% lower xylitol from consumed xylose compared to RHD-15. Model SSCF experiments with glucose or hydrolysate feed in combination with prefermentation resulted in 79% of xylose consumption and more than 75% of the theoretical ethanol yield on available glucose and xylose in lab and PDU scales. The results suggest that for an efficient xylose conversion to ethanol controlled release of glucose from enzymatic hydrolysis and low levels of glucose concentration must be maintained throughout the SSCF. Fed-batch SSCF in PDU with addition of enzymes at three different time points facilitated controlled release of glucose and hence co-consumption of glucose and xylose was observed yielding 76% of the theoretical ethanol yield on available glucose and xylose at 7.9% water insoluble solids (WIS). With a fed-batch SSCF in combination with prefermentation and a feed of substrate and enzymes 47 and 40 g l-1 of ethanol corresponding to 68% and 58% of the theoretical ethanol yield on available glucose and xylose were produced at 10.5% WIS in PDU and demo scale, respectively. The strain KE6-12 was able to completely consume xylose within 76 h during the fermentation of hydrolysate in a 10 m3 demo scale bioreactor.

Conclusions

The potential of SSCF is improved in combination with prefermentation and a feed of substrate and enzymes. It was possible to successfully reproduce the fed-batch SSCF at demo scale producing 4% (w/v) ethanol which is the minimum economical requirement for efficient lignocellulosic bioethanol production process.
Bona fide colour: DNA prediction of human eye and hair colour from ancient and contemporary skeletal remains
Authors: Draus-Barini Jolanta , Walsh Susan , Pośpiech Ewelina , Kupiec Tomasz , Głąb Henryk , Branicki Wojciech , Kayser Manfred
Published: January 2013

Background

DNA analysis of ancient skeletal remains is invaluable in evolutionary biology for exploring the history of species, including humans. Contemporary human bones and teeth, however, are relevant in forensic DNA analyses that deal with the identification of perpetrators, missing persons, disaster victims or family relationships. They may also provide useful information towards unravelling controversies that surround famous historical individuals. Retrieving information about a deceased person’s externally visible characteristics can be informative in both types of DNA analyses. Recently, we demonstrated that human eye and hair colour can be reliably predicted from DNA using the HIrisPlex system. Here we test the feasibility of the novel HIrisPlex system at establishing eye and hair colour of deceased individuals from skeletal remains of various post-mortem time ranges and storage conditions.

Methods

Twenty-one teeth between 1 and approximately 800 years of age and 5 contemporary bones were subjected to DNA extraction using standard organic protocol followed by analysis using the HIrisPlex system.

Results

Twenty-three out of 26 bone DNA extracts yielded the full 24 SNP HIrisPlex profile, therefore successfully allowing model-based eye and hair colour prediction. HIrisPlex analysis of a tooth from the Polish general Władysław Sikorski (1881 to 1943) revealed blue eye colour and blond hair colour, which was positively verified from reliable documentation. The partial profiles collected in the remaining three cases (two contemporary samples and a 14th century sample) were sufficient for eye colour prediction.

Conclusions

Overall, we demonstrate that the HIrisPlex system is suitable, sufficiently sensitive and robust to successfully predict eye and hair colour from ancient and contemporary skeletal remains. Our findings, therefore, highlight the HIrisPlex system as a promising tool in future routine forensic casework involving skeletal remains, including ancient DNA studies, for the prediction of eye and hair colour of deceased individuals.
Vitamin D and Mortality: A Mendelian Randomization Study
Authors: Trummer Olivia , Pilz Stefan , Hoffmann Michael M , Winkelmann Bernhard R , Boehm Bernhard O , März Winfried , Pieber Thomas R , Obermayer-Pietsch Barbara , Renner Wilfried
Published: January 2013

BACKGROUND

Decreased circulating 25-hydroxy-vitamin D (25-OH-vitamin D) concentrations have been associated with mortality rates, but it is unclear whether this association is causal. We performed a Mendelian randomization study and analyzed whether 3 common single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) associated with 25-OH-vitamin D concentrations are causal for mortality rates.

METHODS

Genotypes of SNPs in the group-specific component gene (GC, rs2282679), 7-dehydrocholesterol reductase gene (DHCR7, rs12785878), and cytochrome P450 IIR-1 gene (CYP2R1, rs10741657) were determined in a prospective cohort study of 3316 male and female participants [mean age 62.6 (10.6) years] scheduled for coronary angiography between 1997 and 2000. 25-OH-vitamin D concentrations were determined by RIA. The main outcome measures were all-cause deaths, cardiovascular deaths, and noncardiovascular deaths.

RESULTS

In a linear regression model adjusting for month of blood sampling, age, and sex, vitamin D concentrations were predicted by GC genotype (P < 0.001), CYP2R1 genotype (P = 0.068), and DHCR7 genotype (P < 0.001), with a coefficient of determination (r2) of 0.175. During a median follow-up time of 9.9 years, 955 persons (30.0%) died, including 619 deaths from cardiovascular causes. In a multivariate Cox regression adjusted for classical risk factors, GC, CYP2R1, and DHCR7 genotypes were not associated with all-cause mortality, cardiovascular mortality, or noncardiovascular mortality.

CONCLUSIONS

Genetic variants associated with 25-OH-vitamin D concentrations do not predict mortality. This suggests that low 25-OH-vitamin D concentrations are associated with, but unlikely to be causal for, higher mortality rates.
Improvement of kraft pulp bleaching by treatments with laccase, urea, and refining
Authors: Du Xueyu , Martín Maria E. Eugenio , Li Jiebing
Published: January 2013

Unbleached Eucalyptus kraft pulps were treated by three methods and the bleaching effects have been evaluated. The treatments were performed by a laccase-mediator system (LMS), refining (R), and urea (U) alone and in combination of these methods. The bleached pulps were characterized in terms of κ number, hexenuronic acid content, brightness, and viscosity. In addition, the lignin-carbohydrate complexes (LCCs) were fractionated and characterized with regard to the fractionation yield, lignin content, and carbohydrate composition. Moreover, the 1H nuclear magnetic resonance spectra were recorded and the thioacidolysis-gas chromatography and thioacidolysis-size exclusion chromatography analyses were performed. The LMS treatment resulted mainly in a slightly better delignification as manifested by a κ number (K no.) reduction of 0.8 units. The effects of the U treatment included delignification (1.4 κ units), hexenuronic acid removal (3 μmol g-1), and improved pulp brightness (3.4 ISO units). The R treatment darkened the pulp (3 ISO units), whereas the bleaching of the R-pulp by subsequent LMS or U treatment enhanced the brightness (0.5 unit more) or delignification (0.3 unit more). The residual lignin in the pulp samples was present mainly as xylan-lignin. The Klason lignin content from the xylan-lignin fraction decreased as the degree of delignification increased. The pulp darkening followed by the R treatment was interpreted as the result of the formation of condensed lignin structures, but these condensed lignins were substantially removed by the subsequent LMS or U treatment.
Thermomechanical pulping of novel Brazilian Eucalyptus hybrids
Authors: dos Santos Muguet Marcelo Coelho , Ruuttunen Kyösti , Jääskeläinen Anna-Stiina , Colodette Jorge Luiz , Vuorinen Tapani
Published: January 2013

The importance of Eucalyptus wood as a sustainable resource is well established. Mechanical pulp production is an energy-intensive process, and methods for decreasing energy demand are needed. In the present article, the structure of Eucalyptus hybrids and the produced pulps from the hybrids were assessed in terms of energy consumption, technical properties, and fiber morphology. The defibration and fiber development were investigated by traditional thermomechanical pulping in laboratory scale. There was no clear difference in the extent of defibration and fibrillation among the hybrids, with the exception of one hybrid (U2xGL1). Guaiacyl lignin contents of more than 7.2% had a minor influence on energy consumption, and this finding is different from the results of previous studies on chemimechanical pulping processes. However, a low amount of guaiacyl lignin (6.1% based on wood) decreased the energy demand. This assessment is of major importance concerning the energy-saving defibration during thermomechanical pulping production.
Dexamethasone decreases the spermidine and spermine concentrations and polyamine oxidase activity in rat thymus
Authors: Bjelaković Gordana , Pavlovic Dusica , Kocic Gordana , Stojanović Ivana , Jevtović-Stoimenov Tatjana , Nikolić Jelenka , Sokolovic Dusan , Basic Jelena
Published: January 2013

Background: Glucocorticoids (GCs) exert a wide range of anti-inflammatory, immunosuppressive, and antineoplastic activities. The aim of our investigation was to elucidate the effect of dexamethasone, a synthetic GC, on polyamine metabolism in the rat thymus.

Methods: Male albino Wistar rats, weighing 180–230 g, were divided into two groups: control and experimental. The experimental group received dexamethasone intraperitoneally for 3 days, in a daily dose of 4 mg/animal. The last dose of the hormone was applied on the 3rd day, 1 h before killing. The control group received 0.9% NaCl instead of the hormone. The animals were killed by decapitation. The thymus was removed quickly and rinsed with ice-cold saline. Polyamines were extracted using butanol. The amount of polyamines was investigated by electrophoresis. For the estimation of polyamine oxidase (PAO) activity, 10% water homogenate was prepared.

Results: Our results suggested that dexamethasone supplementation of experimental animals for 3 days significantly decreased the spermine (Sp) and spermidine (Spd) levels in rat thymus tissue (Sp Control, 362.56±25.33 nmol/g wet weight; Sp Exp. Group, 313.01±21.16 nmol/g wet weight; Spd Control, 673.81±30.95 nmol/g wet weight; Spd Exp. Group, 410.21±17.26 nmol/g wet weight). PAO activity significantly decreased under hormone influence in comparison with the control group (PAO Control, 0.449±0.121 U/mg prot.; PAO Exp. Group, 0.312±0.096 U/mg prot.).

Conclusions: The decrease in polyamine amounts in the rat thymus is not due to the change in PAO activity.
Statin-induced adverse effects – facts and genes
Authors: Harangi Mariann , Zsíros Noémi , Juhász Lilla , Paragh György
Published: January 2013

Statin therapy is considered to be safe and rarely associated with serious adverse events. However, a significant proportion of patients on statin therapy show some degree of intolerance which can lead to decreased adherence to statin therapy. The authors summarize the symptoms, signs and frequencies of the most common statin-induced adverse effects and their most important risk factors including some single nucleotide polymorphisms and gene mutations. Also, they review the available approaches to detect and manage the statin-intolerant patients. Orv. Hetil., 2013, 154, 83–92.
Structural and magnetic characterization of spark plasma sintered Fe-50Co alloys
Authors: Mani Mahesh Kumar , Viola Giuseppe , Reece Mike J , Hall Jeremy P , Evans Sam L
Published: January 2013

Fe-50 wt% Co alloy powders with average particle size of 10 μm were compacted by spark plasma sintering (SPS) at 700, 800, 900 and 950oC by applying 40, 80, 100 MPa uniaxial pressures for 2, 5, 10 minutes. The densities of the samples were found to increase with temperature from 700 to 900oC for constant sintering pressure and time and to decrease for the material sintered at 950oC. The effects of sintering time on density were more significant in samples sintered at 700oC and 800oC than those densified at 900oC. The consequences of small increases in mechanical pressure during sintering on density values were significant for samples sintered at 700oC. The coercivity (Hc) of the compacts decreased significantly with increasing sintering temperature, and with increasing dwell time at sintering temperatures lower than 700oC. The sample sintered at 950oC, which contains the largest grains among the prepared samples and porous microstructure, exhibited the minimum coercivity. Unlike Hc, the remanence (Br) and saturation induction (Bsat) values were more strongly affected by the specimen density than by grain size. Br and Bsat values were found to vary linearly with sintering temperature and pressure owing to increasing density. An increase in soaking time at 800 and 900 oC, although enabling higher density, exhibited contradicting effects on Bsat values. The SPS parameters to obtain maximum density and optimum magnetic properties for Fe-50% Co alloy were found to be 900oC, 80 MPa and 2-5 minutes.
In-situ Incorporation of Lithium and Nitrogen into CVD Diamond Thin Films
Authors: Othman M. Zamir , May Paul W. , Fox Neil A.
Published: January 2013

Experiments were performed to incorporate Li and N simultaneously into the diamond lattice during hot-filament chemical vapour deposition in an attempt to produce n-type semiconducting diamond with useful electronic characteristics. Microcrystalline diamond films were grown using a mixture of methane/ammonia/hydrogen gases with tantalum as the filament. The Li was added by placing crystals of lithium nitride (Li3N) on the substrate and allowing them to melt and then slowly diffuse into the film. SIMS depth profiles showed that this process produced high levels of Li and N (0.05% - 0.5%) situated in the same region within the diamond film. The crystallinity and morphology of diamond crystals produced were confirmed using laser Raman spectrometry and scanning electron microscopy.
Role of Thermal Vacancies on Temperature Dependence of Lattice Parameter and Elastic Moduli in B2-type FeAl
Authors: Zhao Mi , Yoshimi Kyosuke , Maruyama Kouichi , Yubuta Kunio
Published: January 2013

Temperature dependence of the lattice parameter and elastic moduli in Fe-40 and -43Al (at.%) was investigated by high temperature X-ray diffractometry (XRD) and the Electro-Magnetic Acoustic Resonance (EMAR) method. The thermal vacancy concentration was estimated from the activation enthalpy and entropy data of vacancy formation previously reported for FeAl. It was found that both the lattice parameter and the elastic moduli of FeAl have a linear relationship with temperature even in the temperature range where thermal vacancy concentration rapidly increases (above 400 °C), thus suggesting that newly generated thermal vacancies at elevated temperature do not make significant influence on the lattice parameter and the elastic properties of B2-type FeAl.
Electrical Characterization of Vacuum Deposited and Solution Processed DH4T Thin Film Transistors
Authors: Muck Tobias , Leufgen Michael , Lebib Amira , Borzenko Tanja , Geurts Jean , Schmidt Georg , Molenkamp Laurens W. , Wagner Veit , Gomes Henrique L.
Published: January 2013

We present organic field-effect transistors with dihexylquaterthiophene (DH4T) as active material, a derivative of the oligothiophene á-4T with two hexyl chains as end groups. This substitution makes this molecule suitable not only for vacuum sublimation but also for solution processing which enables cheaper production. Additionally, the layer ordering is improved. We compare vacuum deposited and solution processed OFETs based on DH4T. The former ones show nearly ideal I-V characteristics. The latter ones show deviations from ideal behavior and lower currents. Furthermore, temperature dependent measurements of drain-source current in vacuum deposited DH4T-OFETs shows an unusual variation of the OFET apparent mobility. These apparent changes in mobility are caused by a threshold voltage shift, which becomes pronounced at around 290 K
Accuracy of Cone Beam Computerized Tomography and a Three-Dimensional Stereolithographic Model in Identifying the Anterior Loop of the Mental Nerve: A Study on Cadavers
Authors: Santana Ruben R. , Lozada Jaime , Kleinman Alejandro , Al-Ardah Aladdin , Herford Alan , Chen Jung-Wei
Published: January 2013

The objective of this ex vivo cadaver study was to determine the accuracy of cone beam computerized tomography (CBCT) and a 3-dimensional stereolithographic (STL) model in identifying and measuring the anterior loop length (ANLL) of the mental nerve. A total of 12 cadavers (24 mental nerve plexus) were used for this study. Standardized CBCT scans of each mandible were obtained both with and without radiographic contrast tracer injected into the mental nerve plexus, and STL models of the two acquired CBCT images were made. The ANLL were measured using CBCT, STL model, and anatomy. The measurements obtained from the CBCT images and STL models were then analyzed and compared with the direct anatomic measurements. A paired sample t test was used, and P values less than .05 were considered statistically significant. The mean difference between CBCT and anatomic measurement was 0.04 mm and was not statistically significant (P = .332), whereas the mean difference between STL models and anatomic measurement was 0.4 mm and was statistically significant (P = .042). There was also a statistical significant difference between CBCT and the STL model (P = .048) with the mean difference of 0.35 mm. Therefore, CBCT is an accurate and reliable method in determining and measuring the ANLL but the STL model over- or underestimated the ANLL by as much as 1.51 mm and 1.83 mm, respectively.
Clinical Evaluation of Short and Wide-Diameter Implants Immediately Placed Into Extraction Sockets of Posterior Areas: A 2-Year Retrospective Study
Authors: Jiansheng Huang , Dongying Xuan , Xianfeng Wang , Baoyi Xie , Qiong Liu , Jincai Zhang
Published: January 2013

The objective of the study was to determine the short-term success rate of short and wide single-tooth implants, immediately placed into extraction sockets of the posterior area. A retrospective cohort study design was used. A total of 145 subjects received 162 short and wide-diameter single-tooth implants between 2006 and 2009. A minimal 7-mm residual height and 9-mm ridge width was available in all the implant sites, and the attached gingivae were at least 2 mm wide. All implants were placed and restored with the single crown by one experienced operator. The data were analyzed with descriptive statistics. All implants were placed in molar areas. There were 20 Ankylos implants with a diameter 5.5 or 7 mm and a length of 8 mm and 142 hydroxyapatite-coated implants with a diameter 5 or 6 mm and a length of 5.7 to 8 mm. One of the 162 implants failed before prosthetic restoration, resulting in a survival rate of 99.4% after loading. Patients were followed for up to 56 months (mean = 24 months) after loading of implants. The radiographic and clinical data revealed well-maintained hard and soft tissues with acceptable short-term results. For residual ridges with minimal height but adequate width, the immediate placement of short and wide-diameter implants in fresh extraction sockets may offer a simple and predictable treatment alternative if implants are positioned appropriately after a thorough preoperative analysis.
Qualidade física de um latossolo sob plantio direto influenciada pela cobertura do solo
Authors: Blainski Éverton , Tormena Cássio Antonio , Guimarães Rachel Muylaert Locks , Nanni Marcos Rafael
Published: January 2013

Estratégias de manejo para melhorar e manter a qualidade física do solo (QFS) são fundamentais para a sustentabilidade de sistemas agrícolas. O intervalo hídrico ótimo (IHO) é um indicador de QFS, definido pela faixa de teor de água menos limitante às plantas. Para uma adequada QFS às plantas, os teores de água do solo deveriam ser mantidos nos limites do IHO. Nesse contexto, a cobertura do solo pelos restos culturais pode contribuir com a QFS via aumento na frequência com que θ permanece no IHO (Fdentro). O objetivo deste estudo foi determinar o IHO em um Latossolo Vermelho distroférrico cultivado com a cultura da soja em sistema de plantio direto, bem como avaliar a Fdentro em função de diferentes quantidades de resíduos de aveia (0, 3, 6, 9 e 12 Mg ha-1). O IHO apresentou relação inversa com a densidade do solo (Ds). Com o estreitamento do IHO, foi observada redução da Fdentro, independentemente da quantidade de resíduos sobre o solo. Por sua vez, o aumento da quantidade de resíduos de aveia sobre o solo proporcionou incremento nos valores de Fdentro, independentemente da posição de amostragem. O efeito benéfico do aumento da quantidade dos resíduos de aveia sobre a Fdentro foi dependente da amplitude do IHO. Com o aumento da Ds e redução do IHO, o incremento da massa de resíduos sobre o solo não refletiu em aumento da Fdentro ou da QFS, principalmente em Ds próximas à considerada crítica.
Mulheres para a Marinha do Brasil: recrutamento e seleção das primeiras oficiais enfermeiras (1980-1981)
Authors: Orichio Ana Paula Carvalho , Santos Tânia Cristina Franco , Almeida Filho Antonio José de , Lourenço Lucia Helena Silva Corrêa
Published: January 2013

Estudo histórico-social, qualitativo, cujos objetivos foram descrever o processo de recrutamento e seleção de oficiais enfermeiras para o Corpo Auxiliar Feminino da Reserva da Marinha do Brasil, e analisar o processo de incorporação do habitus militar pelas enfermeiras aprovadas no concurso, durante o curso de formação. Utilizaram-se documentos escritos e depoimentos orais de quatro enfermeiras que compuseram a primeira turma. Os dados, coletados de janeiro a outubro de 2010, foram organizados, classificados e analisados conforme o método histórico e à luz dos conceitos de habitus e campo de Bourdieu. Evidenciou-se que o processo de formação das primeiras oficiais enfermeiras comportou a rigorosa incorporação de determinações distintas e distintivas relativas ao comportamento requerido para uma oficial, especialmente no que se referia às interdições que reafirmavam o poder masculino. Concluí-se que a incorporação do habitus militar, mediante o aprendizado de símbolos e gestos militares demarcou a construção da identidade da enfermeira militar.
The Traumatic Flashback as One Basis of Misunderstanding Between Patients and Law Enforcement Officers
Authors: Waiess Elizabeth A. , Karon Bertram P.
Published: January 2013

A patient in psychoanalytic psychotherapy reported to the analyst that the patient recently had been forced by satanic cult members to commit a murder. After discussion, the patient and the analyst agreed to inform the police. The police could not find evidence for the occurrence of the crime. Continued psychoanalytic work revealed that it was not a contemporary murder but a flashback of a childhood horror. Because flashbacks of past traumatic experiences are not an uncommon phenomenon, they would account for some of the gruesome events reported by patients but which law enforcement officers cannot validate as having recently occurred.
The Response of College Freshmen to the Ethics of Animal Rights: An Example of Applied Learning Theory
Authors: Jaynes M.
Published: January 2013

A telling arena for observing ethical human behavior is the human treatment of nonhuman animals. How one treats or mistreats animals is a decision mostly grounded in his or her ethical beliefs. This article examines animal ethics and discusses the value of intrinsic motivation through the lens of teaching a freshman animal ethics. In addition, this opinion piece argues the merit of the pass/fail paradigm in lieu of the traditional grading paradigm by using the triad of Kohn’s (1999) intrinsic motivation, Thorndike’s (1913) law of readiness, and Bandura’s (1997) social cognitive notion of self-regulation while exploring the human ethical notions related to learning about animal rights.
Spatial-social differentiation and migration characteristics of the employed population in Belgrade
Authors: Ratkaj Ivan
Published: January 2013

This article explains the genesis, effects of different factors (historical,
economic, political- strategic, urban planning ones), and dynamics of
spatial-social differentiation of the employed population in Belgrade.
Special attention is paid to analysis of recent migration of employees during
the period 1991-2002, which corresponds to the initial phase of
liberalization of the housing market when financial constraints and
subjective preferences of families and households started to act. This
analysis represents the basis for scientific forecast of trajectories of
socio-residential development of the city.
Structural changes in the rural planting areas of Belgrade region
Authors: Sibinovic Mikica
Published: January 2013

Socio-economic development of the Belgrade region significantly affects the
direction of the change of planting areas use. The increase in urban areas
has adversely affected the direction of agricultural land use. Dynamics of
change is significantly due to high production costs (high land prices and
expensive labor force) gives rise to the high price of the product on the
market, there is a constant "pressure" of urban areas to arable land,
increasing the risk of "loss" of agricultural holdings; increased
environmental pollution due to the concentration of industrial plants or road
construction. The aim of this study was to investigate the characteristics of
structural changes in sowing area in the period from 1991 to 2011.
Types of population dynamics in settlements of Zaplanje area
Authors: Martinovic Marija
Published: January 2013

The aim of this article is to present the main directions of changes in the
spatial-demographic settlements organization of Zaplanje, which, due to rapid
demographic recession since the 60s of the 20th century, is the strongest
depopulation area with the oldest population in Serbia. This research aims is
to determine the main types of changes in demographic development of the
settlements and indirectly reveals key issues of the sustainable development
of Zaplanje settlements and revitalization of villages.
Spatial and demographic changes in the settlement network of Zmijanje
Authors: Gataric Dragica
Published: January 2013

The paper presents analysis of spatial and demographic changes in the
settlement network of Zmijanje, which are observed in territorial
depopulation i.e. in several decades of demographic (population) decline and
fragmentation of settlements. These negative trends of population growth are
particularly evident in the highland and mountainous areas - in the
settlement networks in the Republic of Srpska and the settlement network of
Zmijanje, peripheral regions, and the remote areas, away from the local,
subregional and regional centres, etc.
Lipase production by Yarrowia lipolytica using olive oil processing wastes as substrates
Authors: Moftah Omar , Grbavcic Sanja , Moftah Walid , Lukovic Nevena , Prodanovic Olivera , Jakovetic Sonja , Knezevic-Jugovic Zorica
Published: January 2013

In this study solid and liquid wastes from the olive oil processing industry
were evaluated as substrates for Yarrowia lipolytica growth with the aim of
lipase production. Olive mill wastewater and olive oil cake seemed to provide
necessary nutrients and physical support for the yeast to grow and produce
enzyme. The highest lipolytic activity of 850 IU dm-3 was achieved after 4
days of submerged cultivation in supplemented olive mill wastewater. In
addition, olive oil cake appeared to be a convenient substrate for lipase
production under solid state fermentation mode. Lipase production was further
improved by media supplementation and/or change in physical settings of the
experiment. However, the most significant improvement of lipase production
under solid state fermentation was achieved by an alkaline treatment of the
substrate (more than 10-fold) when the amount of produced lipase reached up
to ~40 IU g-1 of substrate.
Effect of microstructure on the wear resistance of borided Fe–Cr alloys
Authors: Dybkov Vasyl I.
Published: January 2013

Two boride layers were found to form at the interface between reacting phases in the course of boriding of Fe–Cr alloys (10, 15, 25 and 30% Cr) and chromium steels (13 and 25% Cr) in the temperature range of 850–950°C and reaction times 3600–43200 s (1–12 h). In the case of Fe-10%Cr and Fe-15%Cr alloys and 13% Cr steel, the outer boride layer bordering the boriding agent consists of the (Fe, Cr)B phase, whereas the inner boride layer adjacent to the solid substrate consists of the (Fe, Cr)2B phase. Each layer is thus a homogeneous phase (type I microstructure). In contrast, on the surface of Fe-25%Cr and Fe-30%Cr alloys and 25% Cr steel each of the two boride layers consists of two phases and has a peculiar network-platelet morphology. The outer boride layer comprises the (Fe, Cr)B and (Cr, Fe)B phases, while the inner consists of the (Fe, Cr)2B and (Cr, Fe)2B phases (type II microstructure). It is such boride layers that exhibit the highest wear resistance.
Optimisation of total roll power using genetic algorithms in a compact strip production plant
Authors: Marquez Itziar , Arribas Maribel , Carrillo Ana , Arana Jose Luis
Published: January 2013

The application of optimisation techniques to hot rolling models can lead to the more efficient use of these models. In this work, a genetic algorithm has been used in order to design new hot rolling schedules with lower energy consumption through a reduction in the total roll power. Firstly, mean flow stress has been modelled for several Nb microalloyed steels produced in a compact strip production plant taking into account recrystallisation and precipitation models. The selected mean flow stress model has been validated against the values obtained from the industrial hot rolling forces using the Sims approach. Secondly, the model has been integrated with a genetic optimisation algorithm and new reductions have been proposed in order to decrease the total rolling power, maintaining all the requirements. The reductions achieved can be up to 10%.
Weldability and joining characteristics of AISI 420/AISI 1020 steels using friction welding
Authors: Kırık I. , Ozdemir N.
Published: January 2013

The purpose of this study is to evaluate the welding characteristics of joints of martensitic stainless steel to medium carbon steel using friction welding. Martensitic stainless steel and commercial medium carbon steel each of 12 mm diameter were used to fabricate the joints. The friction welding tests were carried out using a direct-drive friction welding machine, which was designed and manufactured for this purpose by us. After friction welding, in order to determine the microstructural changes that occurred, the interface regions of the welded specimens were examined by means of scanning electron microscopy, X-ray diffraction and energy dispersive spectroscopy. Microhardness and tensile tests were conducted to determine the mechanical properties of the welded specimens. The experimental results indicated that martensitic stainless steel could be joined to AISI medium carbon steel using the friction welding technique and for achieving a weld with sufficient strength, the friction time has to be held as short as possible, while the rotational speed, friction and forging pressure have to be as high as possible.
Major Variation in Branches of the Abdominal Aorta in New Zealand White Rabbit (Orycotolagus Cuniculus)
Authors: Ahasan ASML , Islam MS , Kabria ASMG , Rahman ML , Hassan MM , Uddin M
Published: January 2013

The aim of the present study was to investigate the arrangement and major vascular variation of abdominal aorta in NZW rabbit. A total of 28 healthy adult rabbits (14 males and 14 females) with an average (1.3 ± 0.5kg) body weight were used in this study. Deep surgical anaesthesia was done by using combination of xylazine and ketamine at the doses of 10mg/kg and 40mg/kg body weight respectively, and was sacrificed by bleeding through the right ventricle of the heart. Cannulation of the thoracic aorta and stained latex (added with ammonium water and red carmine stain) injection were performed, followed by 10% neutral buffered formalin. Asymmetry of the even branches with their distribution and the way of departure of the arteries from the abdominal aorta were observed. However, double pair ovarian arteries were found in a single animal. The diameter of the caudal mesenteric artery showed significant (p?0.05) difference between male and female. In case of male and female, the variability of the origin (number and level of origin) of testicular, ovarian and profound iliac circumflex arteries was also observed. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/ijns.v2i4.13218 International Journal of Natural Sciences (2012), 2(4) 91-98
Inside Arbuscular Mycorrhizal Roots – Molecular Probes to Understand the Symbiosis
Authors: Ruzicka Daniel , Chamala Srikar , Barrios‐Masias Felipe H. , Martin Francis , Smith Sally , Jackson Louise E. , Barbazuk W. Brad , Schachtman Daniel P.
Published: January 2013

Associations between arbuscular mycorrhizal (AM) fungi and plants are an ancient and widespread plant microbe symbioses. Most land plants can associate with this specialized group of soil fungi (in the Glomeromycota), which enhance plant nutrient uptake in return for C derived from plant photosynthesis. Elucidating the mechanisms involved in the symbiosis between obligate symbionts such as AM fungi and plant roots is challenging because AM fungal transcripts in roots are in low abundance and reference genomes for the fungi have not been available. A deep sequencing metatranscriptomics approach was applied to a wild‐type tomato and a tomato mutant (Solanum lycopersicum L. cultivar RioGrande 76R) incapable of supporting a functional AM symbiosis, revealing novel AM fungal and microbial transcripts expressed in colonized roots. We confirm transcripts known to be mycorrhiza associated and report the discovery of more than 500 AM fungal and novel plant transcripts associated with mycorrhizal tomato roots including putative Zn, Fe, aquaporin, and carbohydrate transporters as well as mycorrhizal‐associated alternative gene splicing. This analysis provides a fundamental step toward identifying the molecular mechanisms of mineral and carbohydrate exchange during the symbiosis. The utility of this metatranscriptomic approach to explore an obligate biotrophic interaction is illustrated, especially as it relates to agriculturally relevant biological processes.
Variation in DNA Methylation Patterns is More Common among Maize Inbreds than among Tissues
Authors: Eichten Steven R. , Vaughn Matthew W. , Hermanson Peter J. , Springer Nathan M.
Published: January 2013

Chromatin modifications, such as DNA methylation, can provide heritable, epigenetic regulation of gene expression in the absence of genetic changes. A role for DNA methylation in meiotically stable marking of repetitive elements and other sequences has been demonstrated in plants. Methylation of DNA is also proposed to play a role in development through providing a mitotic memory of gene expression states established during cellular differentiation. We sought to clarify the relative levels of DNA methylation variation among different genotypes and tissues in maize (Zea mays L.). We have assessed genomewide DNA methylation patterns in leaf, immature tassel, embryo, and endosperm tissues of two inbred maize lines: B73 and Mo17. There are hundreds of regions of differential methylation present between the two genotypes. In general, the same regions exhibit differential methylation between B73 and Mo17 in each of the tissues that were surveyed. In contrast, there are few examples of tissue‐specific DNA methylation variation. Only a subset of regions with tissue‐specific variation in DNA methylation show similar patterns in both genotypes of maize and even fewer are associated with altered gene expression levels among the tissues. Our data indicates a limited impact of DNA methylation on developmental gene regulation within maize.
Paradoxalité de « l'enfermement » d'adolescents et de jeunes adultes meurtriers : entre destructivité et créativité
Authors: Morhain Yves
Published: January 2013

Résumé L’actualité de la délinquance qui se signale par l’agression contre l’autre, le semblable, souvent brutale, voire par l’explosion destructrice immédiate, relève de l’archaïque qui renvoie à l’existence subjective du sujet. Les approches judiciaires proposent des formes de rééducation sociale et de prévention, centrées sur l’acte transgressif, désorganisateur et non sur son potentiel refondateur, avec pour conséquence l’« enfermement » de ces adolescents et jeunes adultes difficiles, reproduisant à l’intérieur des murs de la prison une stigmatisation des fauteurs de troubles. Dans ce qui se révèle une impasse, l’« enfermement » peut opérer et induire la dynamique d’un passage, en instaurant des dispositifs de médiation thérapeutiques qui engagent l’adolescent violent à un travail de ré-élaboration psychique et de relance de sa dynamique subjective, ouvrant l’accès à des satisfactions pulsionnelles constructives, créatives et non pas lieu de décharge pour ces adolescents. Ces espaces de transformation pouvant donner lieu à symbolisation et replacer ces jeunes dans un réseau d’intersubjectivité, dans une communauté d’échanges qui leur permette de se tourner vers un espace de possibilités.
L'adolescence et la justice des mineurs à l'épreuve du néolibéralisme
Authors: Hamon Hervé
Published: January 2013

Résumé Cet article se propose d’examiner les mesures « néolibérales » qui ont conduit ces derniers temps à une forte inflexion de la Justice des mineurs, et en particulier à une négation des processus d’évolution des adolescents et du travail d’accompagnement.