bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Association of Spironolactone Use With All-Cause Mortality in Heart Failure
Authors: Lund Lars H. , Svennblad Bodil , Melhus Håkan , Hallberg Pär , Dahlström Ulf , Edner Magnus
Published: February 2013

Background—

In 3 randomized controlled trials in heart failure (HF), mineralocorticoid receptor antagonists reduced mortality. The net benefit from randomized controlled trials may not be generalizable, and eplerenone was, but spironolactone was not, studied in mild HF. We tested the hypothesis that spironolactone is associated with reduced mortality also in a broad unselected contemporary population with HF and reduced ejection fraction, in particular New York Heart Association (NYHA) I–II.

Methods and Results—

We prospectively studied 18 852 patients (age 71±12 years; 28% women) with NYHA I–IV and ejection fraction <40% who were registered in the Swedish Heart Failure Registry between 2000 and 2012 and who were (n=6551) or were not (n=12 301) treated with spironolactone. We derived propensity scores for spironolactone treatment based on 41 covariates. We assessed survival by Cox regression with adjustment for propensity scores and with matching based on propensity score. We performed sensitivity and residual confounding analyses and analyzed the NYHA I–II and III–IV subgroups separately. One-year survival was 83% versus 84% in treated versus untreated patients (log rank
P
<0.001). After adjustment for propensity scores, the hazard ratio for spironolactone was 1.05 (95% confidence interval, 1.00–1.11;
P
=0.054). Spironolactone interacted with NYHA (
P
<0.001). In the NYHA I–II subgroup, after adjustment for propensity scores, the hazard ratio for spironolactone was 1.11 (95% confidence interval, 1.02–1.21;
P
=0.019).

Conclusions—

In an unselected contemporary population of HF with reduced ejection fraction, spironolactone was not associated with reduced mortality. The net benefits of spironolactone may be lower outside the clinical trial setting and in milder HF.
Three new species and one new record of Campylaimus (Diplopeltidae, Nematoda) from Argentine coasts (Buenos Aires and Santa Cruz, Argentina)
Authors: VILLARES GABRIELA , MARTELLI ANTONELA , RUSSO VIRGINIA LO , PASTOR CATALINA
Published: February 2013

Two new Campylaimus species from Arroyo Pareja, Buenos Aires province and one new species and one new record of Campylaimus from Puerto San Julián, Chubut province are described. The three species are characterized by the shape of the copulatory apparatus of the male and the presence of precloacal papillae. Campylaimus bonariensis sp. nov. has slen-der and arcuate spicules, with well-developed cephalization at the proximal end, tubular gubernaculum and three preclo-acal papillae; Campylaimus arcuatus sp. nov. has curved spicules, with well-developed cephalization at the proximal end, gubernaculum with dorso-caudally directed apophysis and five precloacal papillae; Campylaimus patagonicus sp. nov. has slender and arcuate spicules without proximal cephalization, gubernaculum with dorso-caudally directed apophysis and two precloacal papillae. An emended diagnosis of the genus Campylaimus and an identification key to species based on male characters are giventhe tail-color discrepancy. Only McAtee (1942) concluded that his description could be fully accurate as written, indicating a bird closely related to, but different from, a typical King Vulture. Paralleling Bartram’s description is an apparently independent account and painting of a vulture of uncertain geo-graphic origin by Eleazar Albin (1734). Details of Albin’s description, including tail color, are very similar to those of Bartram’s description. The only discrepancies are minor differences in color of softparts and tail that seem explicable as intraspecific variation. Available evidence suggests that Bartram knew nothing of Albin’s description, and if so, Albin’s bird provides quite persuasive support for the validity of Bartram’s bird. Equally important, none of the arguments offered historically against the validity of the Painted Vulture is persuasive when examined closely. Together, these and other fac-tors make a strong case for acceptance of Bartram’s Painted Vulture as a historic resident of northern Florida and likely other adjacent regions.
A new Elachista species (Lepidoptera, Elachistidae, Elachistinae) from Latvia
Authors: SAVENKOV NIKOLAY
Published: February 2013

Elachista sulcsiella sp. n. from Latvia is described. A series of specimens was collected by netting and breeding in three localities. The newly described species belongs to the Elachista bifasciella-group and is likely a close relative of E. irenae Buszko and E. talgarella Kaila. The adult habitus and genitalia of both sexes are figured.
Salivary Gland Surgery and Medical Malpractice
Authors: Hong Steven S. , Yheulon Christopher G. , Sniezek Joseph C.
Published: February 2013

Objective

To better understand the causes and outcomes of lawsuits involving salivary gland surgery by analyzing malpractice litigation trends to prevent future litigation and improve physician education.

Study Design

Analysis of a national database.

Setting

All US civil trials.

Subjects and Methods

The WESTLAW database was reviewed from January 1987 to March 2011. Data were compiled on the demographics of the defendant, anatomic site of injury, initial pathology, nature of injury, legal allegations, verdicts, and indemnities.

Results

Twenty‐six cases met inclusion criteria and were selected for review. Verdicts/settlements for the plaintiffs predominated (58%), and the average sum of the plaintiff's monetary award was $933,235. Sixteen cases (62%) involved injury to the parotid gland/duct, with 10 cases involving injury to the facial nerve. No cases were filed on the grounds of failure to use facial nerve monitoring. Nine cases (35%) involved injury to the submandibular gland/duct. The most common legal allegations listed were improper performance followed by unnecessary procedures. If failure or inadequate consent was a component of the legal allegations, the verdict outcome significantly favored the defendants.

Conclusion

Our study reveals that the plaintiffs in litigations involving salivary gland surgery have a slight advantage in outcomes with a fairly substantial award. Our litigation review reiterates the importance of detailed anatomic knowledge of the lingual and facial nerve to avoid the pitfalls of surgical error and consequent litigation. In addition, thorough preoperative evaluation of salivary gland pathology, including radiographic studies and needle biopsy, may help avoid errors in diagnosis and subsequent litigations.
Fixed point theorems for generalized contractions on GP-metric spaces
Authors: Bilgili Nurcan , Karapınar Erdal , Salimi Peyman
Published: February 2013

In this paper, we present two fixed point theorems on mappings, defined on GP-complete GP-metric spaces, which satisfy a generalized contraction property determined by certain upper semi-continuous functions. Furthermore, we illustrate applications of our theorems with a number of examples. Inspired by the work of Jachymski, we also establish equivalences of certain auxiliary maps in the context of GP-complete GP-metric spaces.

MSC:47H10, 54H25.
Elucidating the crosstalk mechanism between IFN-gamma and IL-6 via mathematical modelling
Authors: Qi Yun-feng , Huang Yan-xin , Wang Hong-yan , Zhang Yu , Bao Yong-li , Sun Lu-guo , Wu Yin , Yu Chun-lei , Song Zhen-bo , Zheng Li-hua , Sun Ying , Wang Guan-nan , Li Yu-xin
Published: February 2013

Background

Interferon-gamma (IFN-gamma) and interleukin-6 (IL-6) are multifunctional cytokines that regulate immune responses, cell proliferation, and tumour development and progression, which frequently have functionally opposing roles. The cellular responses to both cytokines are activated via the Janus kinase/signal transducer and activator of transcription (JAK/STAT) pathway. During the past 10 years, the crosstalk mechanism between the IFN-gamma and IL-6 pathways has been studied widely and several biological hypotheses have been proposed, but the kinetics and detailed crosstalk mechanism remain unclear.

Results

Using established mathematical models and new experimental observations of the crosstalk between the IFN-gamma and IL-6 pathways, we constructed a new crosstalk model that considers three possible crosstalk levels: (1) the competition between STAT1 and STAT3 for common receptor docking sites; (2) the mutual negative regulation between SOCS1 and SOCS3; and (3) the negative regulatory effects of the formation of STAT1/3 heterodimers. A number of simulations were tested to explore the consequences of cross-regulation between the two pathways. The simulation results agreed well with the experimental data, thereby demonstrating the effectiveness and correctness of the model.

Conclusion

In this study, we developed a crosstalk model of the IFN-gamma and IL-6 pathways to theoretically investigate their cross-regulation mechanism. The simulation experiments showed the importance of the three crosstalk levels between the two pathways. In particular, the unbalanced competition between STAT1 and STAT3 for IFNR and gp130 led to preferential activation of IFN-gamma and IL-6, while at the same time the formation of STAT1/3 heterodimers enhanced preferential signal transduction by sequestering a fraction of the activated STATs. The model provided a good explanation of the experimental observations and provided insights that may inform further research to facilitate a better understanding of the cross-regulation mechanism between the two pathways.
Identification of a set of miRNAs differentially expressed in transiently TIA-depleted HeLa cells by genome-wide profiling
Authors: Sánchez-Jiménez Carmen , Carrascoso Isabel , Barrero Juan , Izquierdo José M
Published: February 2013

Background

T-cell intracellular antigen (TIA) proteins function as regulators of cell homeostasis. These proteins control gene expression globally at multiple levels in response to dynamic regulatory changes and environmental stresses. Herein we identified a micro(mi)RNA signature associated to transiently TIA-depleted HeLa cells and analyzed the potential role of miRNAs combining genome-wide analysis data on mRNA and miRNA profiles.

Results

Using high-throughput miRNA expression profiling, transient depletion of TIA-proteins in HeLa cells was observed to promote significant and reproducible changes affecting to a pool of up-regulated miRNAs involving miR-30b-3p, miR125a-3p, miR-193a-5p, miR-197-3p, miR-203a, miR-210, miR-371-5p, miR-373-5p, miR-483-5p, miR-492, miR-498, miR-503-5p, miR-572, miR-586, miR-612, miR-615-3p, miR-623, miR-625-5p, miR-629-5p, miR-638, miR-658, miR-663a, miR-671-5p, miR-769-3p and miR-744-5p. Some up-regulated and unchanged miRNAs were validated and previous results confirmed by reverse transcription and real time PCR. By target prediction of the miRNAs and combined analysis of the genome-wide expression profiles identified in TIA-depleted HeLa cells, we detected connections between up-regulated miRNAs and potential target genes. Gene Ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) database analysis suggest that target genes are related with biological processes associated to the regulation of DNA-dependent transcription, signal transduction and multicellular organismal development as well as with the enrichment of pathways involved in cancer, focal adhesion, regulation of actin cytoskeleton, endocytosis and MAPK and Wnt signaling pathways, respectively. When the collection of experimentally defined differentially expressed genes in TIA-depleted HeLa cells was intersected with potential target genes only 7 out of 68 (10%) up- and 71 out of 328 (22%) down-regulated genes were shared. GO and KEGG database analyses showed that the enrichment categories of biological processes and cellular pathways were related with innate immune response, signal transduction, response to interleukin-1, glomerular basement membrane development as well as neuroactive ligand-receptor interaction, endocytosis, lysosomes and apoptosis, respectively.

Conclusion

All this considered, these observations suggest that individual miRNAs could act as potential mediators of the epigenetic switch linking transcriptomic dynamics and cell phenotypes mediated by TIA proteins.
In-line filtration minimizes organ dysfunction: New aspects from a prospective, randomized, controlled trial
Authors: Boehne Martin , Jack Thomas , Köditz Harald , Seidemann Kathrin , Schmidt Florian , Abura Michaela , Bertram Harald , Sasse Michael
Published: February 2013

Background

Infused particles induce thrombogenesis, impair microcirculation and modulate immune response. We have previously shown in critically ill children, that particle-retentive in-line filtration reduced the overall complication rate of severe events, length of stay and duration of mechanical ventilation. We now evaluated the influence of in-line filtration on different organ function and thereby elucidated the potential underlying pathophysiological effects of particle infusion.

Methods

In this single-centre, prospective, randomized controlled trial 807 critically ill children were assigned to either control (n = 406) or filter group (n = 401), the latter receiving in-line filtration for complete infusion therapy. Both groups were compared regarding the differences of incidence rates and its 95% confidence interval (CI) of different organ dysfunction as defined by the International Pediatric Sepsis Consensus Conference 2005.

Results

The incidence rates of respiratory (−5.06%; 95% CI, −9.52 to −0.59%), renal (−3.87%; 95% CI, −7.58 to −0.15%) and hematologic (−3.89%; 95% CI, −7.26 to −0.51%) dysfunction were decreased in the filter group. No difference was demonstrated for the occurrence rates of cardiovascular, hepatic, or neurologic dysfunction between both groups.

Conclusions

In-line filtration has beneficial effects on the preservation of hematologic, renal and respiratory function in critically ill patients. The presented clinical data further support our hypothesis regarding potential harmful effects of particles. In critically ill patients infused particles may lead to further deterioration of the microcirculation, induce a systemic hypercoagulability and inflammation with consecutive negative effects on organ function.

Trial registration

ClinicalTrials.gov number; NCT00209768
Traumatic experiences and mental health consequences among child survivors of the 2008 Sichuan earthquake: a community-based follow-up study
Authors: Jia Zhaobao , Shi Lizheng , Duan Guangfeng , Liu Weizhi , Pan Xiao , Chen Yingyao , Tian Wenhua
Published: February 2013

Background

The study was implemented to examine the relationship between traumatic experiences and longitudinal development of mental health for children and adolescents who survived the 2008 Sichuan earthquake.

Methods

Using the method of multistage systematic sampling, 596 children aged between 8 and 16 years were randomly selected from severely affected areas of the earthquake. These children were interviewed with standardized instruments of posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and depression at the 15th month after the earthquake, and re-interviewed at the 36th month.

Results

From the initial to the follow-up assessments, there were no significant changes in both PTSD and depression scores. In addition, no significant change was found on the overall prevalence rates of the symptoms: from 12.4% to 10.7% for PTSD, from 13.9% to 13.5% for depression, and from 4.2% to 4.7% for their co-occurrence. The study also indicated that the earthquake might have a delayed impact on the psychosocial functioning of children and adolescents who were not directly affected by the disaster.

Conclusions

For child and adolescent survivors of the earthquake, symptoms of PTSD and depression seemed to persist over time. The finding that children reduced their use of mental health services raised great concerns over how to fulfill the unmet psychological needs of these children. More mental health interventions should be allocated to children who had elevated risk for developing persistent course of the symptoms.
Some results on fixed points of α-ψ-Ciric generalized multifunctions
Authors: Mohammadi B , Rezapour S , Shahzad N
Published: February 2013

In 2012, Samet, Vetro and Vetro introduced α-ψ-contractive mappings and gave some results on a fixed point of the mappings (Samet et al. in Nonlinear Anal. 75:2154-2165, 2012). In fact, their technique generalized some ordered fixed point results (see (Alikhani et al. in Filomat, 2012, to appear) and (Samet et al. in Nonlinear Anal. 75:2154-2165, 2012)). By using the main idea of (Samet et al. in Nonlinear Anal. 75:2154-2165, 2012), we give some new results for α-ψ-Ciric generalized multifunctions and some related self-maps. Also, we give an affirmative answer to a recent open problem which was raised by Haghi, Rezapour and Shahzad in 2012.
Multidimensionality and scale in a landscape ethnoecological partitioning of a mountainous landscape (Gyimes, Eastern Carpathians, Romania)
Authors: Babai Dániel , Molnár Zsolt
Published: February 2013

Background

Traditional habitat knowledge is an understudied part of traditional knowledge. Though the number of studies increased world-wide in the last decade, this knowledge is still rarely studied in Europe. We document the habitat vocabulary used by Csángó people, and determine features they used to name and describe these categories.

Study area and methods

Csángó people live in Gyimes (Carpathians, Romania). The area is dominated by coniferous forests, hay meadows and pastures. Animal husbandry is the main source of living. Data on the knowledge of habitat preference of 135 salient wild plant species were collected (2908 records, 44 interviewees). Data collected indoors were counterchecked during outdoor interviews and participatory field work.

Results

Csángós used a rich and sophisticated vocabulary to name and describe habitat categories. They distinguished altogether at least 142–148 habitat types, and named them by 242 habitat terms. We argue that the method applied and the questions asked (‘what kind of place does species X like?’) helped the often implicit knowledge of habitats to be verbalized more efficiently than usual in an interview. Habitat names were highly lexicalized and most of them were widely shared. The main features were biotic or abiotic, like land-use, dominant plant species, vegetation structure, successional stage, disturbance, soil characteristics, hydrological, and geomorphological features. Csángós often used indicator species (28, mainly herbaceous taxa) in describing habitats of species. To prevent reduction in the quantity and/or quality of hay, unnecessary disturbance of grasslands was avoided by the Csángós. This could explain the high number of habitats (35) distinguished dominantly by the type and severity of disturbance. Based on the spatial scale and topological inclusiveness of habitat categories we distinguished macro-, meso-, and microhabitats.

Conclusions

Csángó habitat categories were not organized into a single hierarchy, and the partitioning was multidimensional. Multidimensional description of habitats, made the nuanced characterization of plant species’ habitats possible by providing innumerable possibilities to combine the most salient habitat features. We conclude that multidimensionality of landscape partitioning and the number of dimensions applied in a landscape seem to depend on the number of key habitat gradients in the given landscape.
The incidence of early post-operative complications following uvulopalatopharyngoplasty: Identification of predictive risk factors
Authors: Kandasamy Thileeban , Wright Erin D , Fuller John , Rotenberg Brian W
Published: February 2013

Objective

Characterize complications following uvulopalatopharyngoplasty (UPPP) for obstructive sleep apnea.

Study design

Retrospective chart review.

Subjects and methods

Charts of patients undergoing UPPP at an academic teaching hospital from 1999 to 2005 were reviewed.

Results

345 consecutive patients (248 inpatients; 97 outpatients) were studied. The most common post-operative complication in the entire study was oxyhemoglobin desaturation (12.8%). Three patients suffered major complications (airway obstruction, pulmonary edema, arrhythmia). Regarding complications limited to the post-anaesthetic care unit alone, only 8.2% of patients had oxyhemoglobin desaturation after discontinuation of oxygen supplementation. Inpatients requiring supplemental oxygen on the ward had significantly higher mean AHI (37.4 vs. 31.4; p=0.05) and BMI (32.3 kg/m2 vs. 28.9 kg/m2; p=0.004) than those who did not. Those inpatients who were obese (BMI > 30 kg/m2) with an AHI≥22 were associated with an increased risk of requiring oxygen on the ward (odds ratio = 3.48, 95% CI = 1.56 – 7.78).

Conclusion

The incidence of post-UPPP complications is much lower than the literature has historically suggested. Selected patients should be able to safely undergo outpatient UPPP. Patients with higher AHI, higher BMI, or multiple comorbidities are at higher risk for postoperative complications and are most appropriate for overnight monitoring.
High-mobility group protein B1: a new biomarker of metabolic syndrome in obese children
Authors: Arrigo Teresa , Chirico Valeria , Salpietro Vincenzo , Munafò Caterina , Ferraù Valeria , Gitto Eloisa , Lacquaniti Antonio , Salpietro Carmelo
Published: February 2013

Introduction

Obesity is associated with a chronic low-grade inflammation. High-mobility group box 1 protein (HMGB1) plays a key role in inflammation and immunostimulatory and chemotactic processes. The aim of the study was to assess the role of HMGB1 in obese children and to evaluate its diagnostic profile in identifying childhood obesity-related complications, such as the metabolic syndrome (MS).

Patients and methods

Sixty obese children were enrolled and compared with 40 healthy children (control). Homeostasis model assessment of insulin resistance (HOMA-IR), lipid profile, thyroid hormones, and pro- and anti-inflammatory peptides such as C-reactive protein (CRP), adiponectin, interleukin 6 (IL6), IL18, IL23, TNFα, resistin, and HMGB1 were evaluated. Receiver operating characteristics (ROC) analysis was employed to calculate the area under the curve (AUC) for HMGB1, IL6, and adiponectin to find the best cutoff values capable of identifying MS in obese children.

Results

HMGB1 levels were statistically higher in obese patients than in the control group (19.4±6.8 vs 3.7±1.2 ng/ml;P<0.0001). In obese patients, IL18, IL6, and resistin levels were significantly high, while adiponectin levels were low. At multivariate analysis, HMGB1 was found to be independently correlated with BMI, IL23, IL6, free triiodothyronine, HDL, and HOMA-IR. At ROC analysis, HMGB1 showed higher sensitivity and specificity (AUC, 0. 992; sensitivity, 94.7%; specificity, 97.5%) than IL6 and adiponectin in identifying MS in obese children.

Conclusion

HMGB1 plays an important role in the inflammatory process associated with childhood obesity. This peptide may be an important diagnostic marker for obesity-related complications, such as MS.
An Overview of Dry Sliding Wear of Two-Phase FeNiMnAl Alloys
Authors: Wu Xiaolan , Meng Fanling , Baker Ian , Wu Hong , Munroe Paul R.
Published: February 2013

The pin-on-disc wear behavior of nanostructured two-phase Fe30Ni20Mn20Al30 and eutectic lamellar-structured Fe30Ni20Mn35Al15 is compared emphasizing the influence of the microstructure and mechanical properties of alloys as well as the effect of test environment. Although the wear of both alloys was greater in oxygen-containing environments, eutectic Fe30Ni20Mn35Al15 is less sensitive to oxygen than nanostructured Fe30Ni20Mn20Al30. Abrasive wear dominated during the wear in all cases, while plastic deformation also occurred during the wear of eutectic Fe30Ni20Mn35Al15. A tribolayer of zirconia, which was embedded in the surface of the wear pin, was characterized using a scanning transmission electron microscope equipped with an energy dispersive spectrometer.
TiO2 Film Morphology, Electron Transport and Electron Lifetime in Ultra-fast Sintered Dye-sensitized Solar Cells
Authors: Carnie Matthew J. , Charbonneau Cecile , Davies Matthew , Mabbett Ian , Watson Trystan , Worsley David
Published: February 2013

With the application of near-infrared radiation (NIR), TiO2 films for dye-sensitized solar cells (DSCs) on metallic substrates can be sintered in just 12.5 s. The photovoltaic performance of devices made with NIR sintered films match those devices made with conventionally sintered films prepared by heating for 1800 s. Here we characterise the electron transport, electron lifetime and phase-morphological properties of ultrafast NIR sintered films, using impedance spectroscopy, transient photovoltage decay and x-ray diffraction measurements. An important factor in NIR processing of TiO2 films is the peak metal temperature (PMT) and we show that during the 12.5 second heat treatment that a PMT of around 635 °C gives near identical electron transport, electron lifetime and morphological properties, as well comparable photovoltaic performance to a conventionally sintered (500 °C, 30 mins) film. What is perhaps most interesting is that the rapid heating of the TiO2 (to temperatures of up to 785°C) does not lead to a large scale rutile phase transition. As such photovoltaic performance of resultant DSC devices is maintained even though the TiO2 has been at temperatures which traditionally would have reduced cell photocurrents via anatase-to-rutile phase transition.
Triple-Junction Thin-Film Silicon Solar Cells on W-Textured ZnO for Applications to Low-Concentration Photovoltaics
Authors: Kasashima Shunsuke , Moriya Yuki , Sichanugrist Porponth , Konagai Makoto
Published: February 2013

We report for the first time the a-Si:H/μc-Si:H/μc-Si:H triple-junction solar cells fabricated on W-textured ZnO having a very high haze value which can improve light scattering effect. For further enhancement of light confinement effects, p-type a-SiOx:H and μc-SiOx:H as wide-gap window-layers, n-type μc-SiOx:H as intermediate layers and a back reflector were employed in these solar cells too. From theoretical analysis, we have found an advantage of a-Si:H/μc-Si:H/μc-Si:H structure for an application to low-concentration photovoltaics. For the fabricated solar cells, a conversion efficiency of 8.86% at 1 sun and and 9.86% under 7.2 suns, and a total photocurrent from each subcell of 24.1 mA/cm2 were achieved although there was still a current mismatch among component subcells.
Surface Acoustic Wave Devices: Materials Stability in Harsh Environments
Authors: Richter Denny , Schulz Michal , Sakharov Sergey , Davis Zachary J. , Fritze Holger
Published: February 2013

The availability of high-temperature stable surface acoustic wave (SAW) devices would enable realization of wireless sensors for monitoring high-temperature processes. One of the most promising substrate materials for SAW based high-temperature sensors is langasite (LGS, La3Ga5SiO14). It can be excited piezoelectrically up to its melting point at 1470 °C. However, gallium evaporation and degradation of the electrodes limit the application of LGS in SAW sensors for harsh environments to some extent.

The objectives of this work include the investigation of the gallium loss in the vicinity of the langasite surface in oxidizing, reducing and vacuum conditions at temperatures up to 900 °C. The gallium content in the vicinity of the LGS surface is not decreased after annealing the samples in air, while a significant gallium loss occurs in vacuum and reducing atmospheres (0.5 % H2/Ar). The latter results in a gallium oxide deficient region of 1.5 μm below the surface after annealing for 12 hours at 900 °C. The gallium loss is virtually completely suppressed after protecting the surface with a thin alumina film.

Further, thin-film electrodes based on platinum and platinum/rhodium are tested. While conventional platinum based electrodes are completely destroyed at 900 °C within hours due to agglomeration, alumina protected electrodes can be operated at least for several days at this temperature. After 400 hours at 700 °C, the alumina protected platinum electrodes show insignificant degradation. The influence of alumina passivation layers on the stability of the SAW devices is examined. Different electrode configurations are tested with respect to their long-term frequency stability at 650 °C.
Microstructure and tribological properties of gray cast iron specimens coated by aluminizing, boronizing, chromizing and siliconizing
Authors: Murakami T. , Matsuzaki K. , Gomi Y. , Sasaki S. , Inui H.
Published: February 2013

In this study, aluminized, boronized, chromized and siliconized gray cast iron plate specimens were prepared, and their microstructures and tribological properties were investigated. The surfaces of the aluminized, boronized, chromized and siliconized specimens mainly consisted of FeAl, Fe2B, (Cr, Fe)23C6 and FeSi phases, respectively. Also, the surface of the boronized specimen exhibited the highest microvickers hardness of all the specimens. The aluminized, boronized and chromized specimens exhibited friction coefficients as low as the non-coated specimens when sliding against AISI 52100 steel ball specimens in poly-alpha-olefin. In addition, the boronized and chromized specimens exhibited much higher wear resistance than the non-coated specimens.
Corrosion Resistance of Surface treated Alloy 617 in High Temperature HI and H2SO4 Environments
Authors: Kim Donghoon , Sah Injin , Choi Jin Young , Kim Young Soo , No Hee Cheon , Jang Changheui
Published: February 2013

The sulfur-iodine thermo-chemical cycle (S-I cycle) is one of the promising nuclear hydrogen production methods combined with a high temperature gas-cooled reactor. However, extremely corrosive environments limit the selection of structural materials. Therefore, in this study, corrosion behaviors of several metallic materials were investigated to screen the candidate metallic materials. Coupon type specimens were exposed for 100 h in simulated SO3 and HI decomposer conditions at 850 °C. After 100 h exposure, the surface treated Alloy 617 showed the superior weight change in both environments. However, scanning electron microscope observation showed oxide spallation for EB-treated and NiAl coated Alloy 617. On the other hand, the Ni3Al coated Alloy 617 showed better corrosion resistance in SO3 decomposer condition, such that only formed external Al-rich oxide layer. Especially, in a HI decomposer condition, the damage on the Ni3Al coated Alloy 617 was considerably less significant probably due to the protection by very thin aluminum-rich oxide on the surface.
Effects of Ternary Additions on the Microstructure of Directionally-Solidified MoSi2/Mo5Si3 Eutectic Composites
Authors: Fujiwara Kosuke , Sasai Yuta , Kishida Kyosuke , Inui Haruyuki
Published: February 2013

Microstructural variations of directionally-solidified (DS) MoSi2/Mo5Si3 eutectic composites caused by ternary additions of V, Cr, Nb, Ta and W were investigated. Ternary addition of relatively large amount of V resulted in the apparent modification of the morphology as well as the macroscopic inclination angle of one type of the interfaces extending nearly along the growth direction in the DS ingots. Ternary addition of Cr was found to change the microstructures of the DS ingots from a cellular-type with coarse boundary regions to a plate-like cellular-type with increasing the amount of the ternary addition. No significant change of scriptlamellar morphology was observed for the DS ingots containing Nb, Ta and W irrespective of the amount of the ternary addition.
Effect of Interstitial Carbon Atoms on Phase Stability and Mechanical Properties of E21 (L12) Ni3AlC1-x Single Crystals
Authors: Kimura Yoshisato , Kawakita Masato , Yuyama Hiroyasu , Chai Yaw-Wang
Published: February 2013

Single crystals of E21 (L12) Ni3AlC1-x were prepared by the unidirectional solidification using the optical floating zone melting method to determine their mechanical properties. Particularly the effects of interstitial carbon atoms on mechanical properties were evaluated by compression tests at room temperature. Operative slip system of E21 Ni3AlC is {111}<011> type which is the same as that of L12 Ni3Al. Strength of Ni3AlC single crystals increases with carbon concentration due to the solid solution effect, though the stress relief of yielding behavior is enhanced at the intermediate carbon content at around 3at%. A large gap appears in the carbon concentration dependence of critical resolved shear stress (as well as yield stress) at almost the same carbon content. This discontinuity in strengthening is attributed to the interaction between multiple solute carbon atoms and mobile dislocations.
Effects of matrix composition on instant release fractions from high burn-up nuclear fuel
Authors: Roth Olivia , Low Jeanett , Granfors Michael , Spahiu Kastriot
Published: February 2013

The release of radionuclides from spent nuclear fuel in contact with water is controlled by two processes – the dissolution of the UO2grains and the rapid release of fission products segregated either to the gap between the fuel and the cladding or to the UO2grain boundaries. The rapid release is often referred to as the Instant Release Fraction (IRF) and is of interest for the safety assessment of geological repositories for spent fuel due to the potential dose contribution.

Previous studies have shown that the instant release fraction can be correlated to the fission gas release (FGR) from the spent fuel. Studies comparing results from samples in the form of pellets, fragments, powders and a fuel rodlet have shown that the sample preparation has a significant impact on the instant release, indicating that the differentiation between gap release and grain boundary release should be further explored.

Today, there are trends towards power uprates, longer fuel cycles and increasing burn-up putting additional requirements on the nuclear fuel. These requirements are met by the development of new fuel types, such as UO2fuels containing dopants or additives. The additives and dopants affect fuel properties such as grain size and fission gas release. In the present study we have performed experimental leaching studies using two high burnup fuels with and without additives/dopants and compared the fuel types with respect to their instant release behavior. The results of the leaching of the samples for the 3 initial contact periods; 1, 7 and 23 days are reported here.
Effects of Erbium alloying on the structural and piezoelectric properties of Aluminum Nitride thin films annealed under extreme thermal conditions
Authors: Narang V. , Korakakis D.
Published: February 2013

Effects of adding Erbium(Er) to Aluminum Nitride thin films on their structural and piezoelectric are reported along with stability of the films after annealing them at temperatures up to 600° C. The thin films samples were deposited on the (001) p-type silicon substrates by reactive magnetron sputtering, using the Er alloyed Aluminum targets with Er atomic concentrations of 0, 1, 3 and 4% and the magnetron sputtering power of 200 W. The samples were characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD) and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS). XPS analysis was used to confirm the stoichiometry of AlN phase, Er atomic content and its possible chemical state in the films. Results show that alloying with Er results in higher piezoelectric coefficient d33 as compared to that in Er-free AlN thin films. Structural analysis of the films by XRD shows the shift of (0002) AlN peak to lower 2θ values upon Er doping, indicating the presence of uniform internal compressive stress.
Migraine patients should be cautiously followed for risk factors leading to cardiovascular disease
Authors: Silva Ivan Rocha Ferreira da , Freitas Gabriel R. de
Published: February 2013

Migraine and ischemic strokes are two of the most prevalent diseases worldwide. Besides having a coincident symptomatology, for long researchers have been searching for a possible causal relation between these diseases. Current evidence based on data suggest that patients with aura migraine could have a doubled risk of developing an ischemic stroke, when compared to the rest of the population. At the same time, migraine sufferers apparently have higher incidences of risk factors for cardiovascular events. The aim of this review was not only to dissect some of the more compelling evidence based on data regarding this association, but also to discuss the possible clinical and therapeutic implications.
Evaluation of cysticercus-specific IgG (total and subclasses) and IgE antibody responses in cerebrospinal fluid samples from patients with neurocysticercosis showing intrathecal production of specific IgG antibodies
Authors: Suzuki Lisandra Akemi , Rossi Cláudio Lúcio
Published: February 2013

In the present study, an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) standardized with vesicular fluid of Taenia solium cysticerci was used to screen for IgG (total and subclasses) and IgE antibodies in cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) samples from patients with neurocysticercosis showing intrathecal production of specific IgG antibodies and patients with other neurological disorders. The following results were obtained: IgG-ELISA: 100% sensitivity (median of the ELISA absorbances (MEA)=1.17) and 100% specificity; IgG1-ELISA: 72.7% sensitivity (MEA=0.49) and 100% specificity; IgG2-ELISA: 81.8% sensitivity (MEA=0.46) and 100% specificity; IgG3-ELISA: 63.6% sensitivity (MEA=0.12) and 100% specificity; IgG4-ELISA: 90.9% sensitivity (MEA=0.85) and 100% specificity; IgE-ELISA 93.8% sensitivity (MEA=0.60) and 100% specificity. There were no significant differences between the sensitivities and specificities in the detection of IgG-ELISA and IgE-ELISA, although in CSF samples from patients with neurocysticercosis the MEA of the IgG-ELISA was significantly higher than that of the IgE-ELISA. The sensitivity and MEA values of the IgG4-ELISA were higher than the corresponding values for the other IgG subclasses. Future studies should address the contribution of IgG4 and IgE antibodies to the physiopathology of neurocysticercosis.
Produtividade do aspargo sob irrigação na região do Submédio São Francisco
Authors: D'Oliveira Lúcio O. B. , Resende Geraldo M. de , Flori José Egidio
Published: February 2013

O objetivo do presente trabalho foi avaliar uma coleção de cultivares e híbridos de aspargo (Asparagus officinalis L.), quanto à produtividade e adaptabilidade às condições do Submédio São Francisco. A avaliação foi realizada no Campo Experimental de Bebedouro (Embrapa Semi-Árido), em Petrolina - PE, durante o período de 1991 a 1994. A coleção, constituída por duas cultivares e doze híbridos provenientes de Pelotas - RS, dez híbridos da França e três híbridos dos Estados Unidos, foi implantada em 15 de agosto de 1990. Na avaliação da produtividade, considerou-se apenas os turiões brancos, retos, sem manchas ou lesões, com diâmetro acima de 8 mm e comprimento variando de 15 a 20 cm. A produtividade média por genótipo durante o período de 1991 a 1994 variou de 1,74 a 6,33 t. ha-1. O ano de 1992 destacou-se com a maior produtividade média (4,46 t. ha-1). Os híbridos de origem francesa apresentaram uma acentuada mortalidade de plantas, indicando uma provável inadaptação às condições da região. Os híbridos W 12 x 14, G 4 x 14 e G 103 x 14, procedentes de Pelotas, destacaram-se com produtividades médias superiores a 4,40 t. ha-1. A cultivar New Jersey 220 apresentou o melhor desempenho, com 3,69 t. ha-1. Estes dados indicam o aspargo como uma boa alternativa agrícola para os perímetros irrigados da região Nordeste do Brasil, oferecendo, inclusive, condições de a região competir nos mercados interno e externo.
Produção de pepino para conserva na região Norte de Minas Gerais
Authors: Resende Geraldo M. de
Published: February 2013

Com o objetivo de identificar as cultivares mais produtivas de pepino para conserva, instalou-se um experimento no período de agosto a outubro de 1988, no Campo Experimental de Gorutuba, em Porteirinha (MG). O delineamento experimental utilizado foi blocos ao acaso, com dez cultivares (Colônia, Guaíra, Ginga AG-77, Indaial, Itapema, Levina, Pérola, Primepak, Score e Tamor) e quatro repetições. A parcela experimental foi composta por quatro linhas de 6 m de comprimento, com espaçamento de 1,00 x 0,30 m. As cultivares Indaial (29,72 t.ha-1), Score (26,46 t.ha-1), Colônia (26,43 t.ha-1) e Ginga AG-77 (26,12 t.ha-1) apresentaram as produtividades estatisticamente mais elevadas. Em termos de número de frutos por planta, as cultivares Indaial (7,72), Colônia (7,40), Ginga AG-77 (7,40), Score (6,94) e Tamor (6,68) apresentaram estatisticamente os melhores resultados. As cultivares Ginga AG-77 (77,96%), Levina (75,71%) e Tamor (73,58%) apresentaram as proporções significativamente mais altas de produção de frutos comerciais do tipo I, com comprimento entre 6 e 9 cm e maior valor comercial. Todas as cultivares apresentaram ciclo entre 76 e 82 dias, do plantio à última colheita.
O trabalho no cultivo orgânico de frutas: uma abordagem ergonômica
Authors: Gemma Sandra Francisca Bezerra , Abrahão Roberto Funes , Sznelwar Laerte Idal
Published: February 2013

A agricultura orgânica tem sido apontada como uma forma de cultivo sustentável do ponto de vista ecológico, econômico e social. No entanto, não se encontram pesquisas sobre a relação saúde-trabalho na agricultura orgânica, não sendo possível afirmar que a eliminação dos riscos toxicológicos do sistema convencional seja suficiente para garantir a saúde dos agricultores. Esta pesquisa tem como objetivo principal a compreensão das dificuldades encontradas na execução do trabalho na produção orgânica de frutas. Para tanto, foi realizado um estudo de caso em um sítio de cultivo orgânico de frutas, aplicando o método da Análise Ergonômica do Trabalho (AET). Tarefas manuais freqüentes no cultivo orgânico, como o ensacamento de frutas, executadas sob pressão temporal, podem colocar em risco a saúde dos agricultores por demandarem esforço físico considerável, posturas desconfortáveis e movimentos repetitivos.
Educação popular em saúde com o povo indígena Xukuru do Ororubá
Authors: Brito Juliana Santos Siebra , Albuquerque Paulette Cavalcanti de , Silva Edson Hely
Published: February 2013

Este texto baseia-se em uma pesquisa-ação que analisa e reorienta as ações educativas em saúde realizadas pelos agentes indígenas de saúde (AIS) e agentes indígenas de saneamento (AISAN), no âmbito da atenção primária do povo Xukuru do Ororubá, no agreste pernambucano, Brasil. Propôs-se um trabalho que envolvesse tanto os agentes quanto a comunidade, para discutir as práticas de saúde, partindo dos referenciais teóricos da educação popular. O desenvolvimento das ações pedagógicas aconteceu por meio de oficinas e rodas de conversa. Estimulou-se a elaboração de atividades de promoção da saúde pelos AIS/AISAN a partir da constituição de grupos de adolescentes e jovens nas aldeias. Oficinas de formação de grupos, cidadania, reciclagem e alimentação saudável culminaram na "I Mostra de Saúde do Povo Xukuru". Limitações na operacionalização da metodologia proposta aconteceram durante o projeto, sobretudo devido à conjuntura política vivida pelo povo.
La noción de inconsciente en Freud: antecedentes históricos y elaboraciones teóricas
Authors: Gallegos Miguel
Published: February 2013

Este trabajo aborda la noción de inconsciente desde una perspectiva histórica. La noción de inconsciente es una de las categorías centrales del psicoanálisis y reconoce diversos antecedentes teóricos. En primer lugar, se expone el origen del término en la reflexión filosófica y en las referencias de la psiquiatría. En segundo lugar, se trabaja el inconciente en las elaboraciones teóricas de Freud. Por ultimo, se exponen las diversas formas en las que Freud legitima la noción de inconsciente en el marco del psicoanálisis.
Música e um pouco de silêncio: da voz ao sujeito
Authors: Lima Carolina Mousquer , Poli Maria Cristina
Published: February 2013

Trata-se de investigar os possíveis efeitos do trabalho com a música na clínica das psicoses. A partir da experiência em distintos espaços clínicos, especialmente em um Centro de Atenção Psicossocial (Caps), as autoras sustentam a hipótese de que a música se mostra uma via potente na criação de intervalos entre o sujeito e o Outro, o que é desafio constante nessa clínica. Dessa análise decanta a questão do silêncio, como elemento essencial na direção do tratamento nas psicoses.
Críticas e alternativas de Winnicott ao conceito de pulsão de morte
Authors: Fulgencio Leopoldo
Published: February 2013

Trata-se de explicitar as críticas que Winnicott fez ao conceito de pulsão de morte, indicando que alternativas ofereceu para resolver os problemas para os quais Freud teria suposto a pulsão de morte. Depois de retomar a posição de Freud, para mostrar que esse conceito serve como uma especulação para compreender a compulsão à repetição, demonstra-se que Winnicott mudou o foco da questão, considerando que os pacientes precisam regredir a situações similares à traumática, anteriores à constituição das defesas contra o trauma, para as integrarem em sua personalidade.
Post-fire phenology in a campo sujo vegetation in the Urucum plateau, Mato Grosso do Sul, Brazil
Authors: Neves DRM. , Damasceno-Junior GA.
Published: February 2013

Studies on the herbaceous and sub-shrub layer of cerrado showed the occurrence of modifications in its composition between different regions, demonstrating sensibility to changes in climate, soil and intensity of fires, among other factors. The aim of this study was to describe the phenological variation in a campo sujo vegetation in the Urucum plateau. We established eight transects of 250 m each, 50 m apart. We sampled all flowering and fruiting species located at least three meters from each side of the transect. Beginning in October 2007, one month after an accidental fire occurred in the study site, we analysed flowering and fruiting plants in the transects' area. The intensity of the flowering and fruiting phenophases was not uniformly distributed. This study provide us information about the possible fire influence on the reproductive patterns of the community, presenting flowering peaks in October and November, two months after this event. Regression analysis with monthly rainfall also provides us information about the influence of climate data on the flowering and fruiting peaks.
Folk taxonomy of fishes of artisanal fishermen of Ilhabela (São Paulo/Brazil)
Authors: Ramires Milena , Clauzet Mariana , Begossi Alpina
Published: February 2013

This article investigates the folk taxonomy of four artisanal fisheries communities in Ilhabela/SP. The local folk taxonomy shows how these fishermen identify, name and classify fish resources in the environment exploited by them. Forty-two fishermen from four different local communities of Ilhabela were interviewed through a structured questionnaire and photographs of fish species with occurrence for the southeast region of Brazil. Respondents identified the 24 species listed as 50 generic names and 27 binominal specific names, mainly related to aspects of fish species morphology such as color, shape and size. These fish were classified into eight groups according to local criteria related to the morphology, ecology and fishing forms associated with the capture of species. The morphological aspect was identified as the most used feature by respondents to name and classify local fish, followed by ecological aspects such as behavior, diet and habitat. The comparison of local criteria used for the groups was similar to the scientific taxonomy criteria, showing a detailed local ecological knowledge by this group of fishers.