bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Modified amino resins for corrosion prevention in organic coatings
Authors: Salah Aly Emira Hassan , Mostafa Abu‐Ayana Yosreya , Mohammad El‐Sawy Sanaa
Published: August 2013

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to study the corrosion protective properties of modified urea and/or thiourea formaldehyde resins for steel surface.

Design/methodology/approach

Three butyl alcohol modified amino resins were laboratory prepared. The three modified resins were characterized using thermal gravimetric analysis and infrared; the solid content and refractive index of each were also measured.

Findings

The resins that contain both nitrogen and sulphur have excellent corrosion inhibitive activity compared with that containing nitrogen only.

Research limitations/implications

The modified resins were based on urea formaldehyde resin, mixed urea and thiourea formaldehyde resin and thiourea formaldehyde resin, respectively.

Practical implications

The prepared resins were introduced in different coating formulations based on short‐oil alkyd resin, medium‐oil alkyd resin and plasticized chlorinated rubber. They were then tested and evaluated for corrosion protection of steel surfaces.

Originality/value

All the prepared resins show promising results for corrosion protection of steel surfaces.
Effect of polypyrrole on the properties of conventional epoxy coatings
Authors: Abhijit S. , Mahanwar Prakash A. , Bambole V.A.
Published: August 2013

Purpose

The aim of this paper is to conduct a real time evaluation of polypyrrole as an anti‐corrosive pigment in epoxy polyamide coating.

Design/methodology/approach

This study deals with synthesis of polypyrrole (PPy) by chemical oxidative polymerisation in laboratory conditions. The synthesised PPy was characterised by employing FT‐IR, XRD, SEM and EDX analysis. Epoxy film of bisphenol type hardened with polyamide based curing agent was used as the binder. PPy was used as anti‐corrosive pigment in concentrations varying from 0 to 5 wt% in the coating. In addition to anti‐corrosive property, mechanical, chemical and weathering properties of the coating containing PPy were studied and compared with epoxy polyamide coating without PPy.

Findings

The result obtained through various tests showed that the coating with 1 and 2% PPy exhibited excellent weathering resistance, mechanical properties and improved chemical resistance.

Research limitations/implications

The anti‐corrosion property of the coating can be tested by means of atmospheric exposure such as Florida test or by means of electrochemical impedance spectroscopy.

Practical implications

The results find application in anti‐corrosive paints for industrial application.

Originality/value

This research paper presents the results of anti‐corrosion behaviour of PPy in epoxy‐polyamide coating. Based on this result, a highly effective anti‐corrosive coating can be formulated by addition of small percentage of PPy in combination with other conventional pigments, thereby enhancing corrosion protection.
The “learning organisation” and Singapore culture
Authors: Retna Kala S. , Jones Deborah
Published: August 2013

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to explore practitioner and post‐colonial perspectives on the implementation of learning organisation theory and practice in a non‐Western setting.

Design/methodology/approach

A qualitative interpretive study, using in‐depth interviews and participant observation, was conducted in two public organisations in Singapore. The study looked at relationships between the concepts of the learning organisation and of Singapore national culture, as the members of the organisations saw them. This study is presented and then discussed in commentaries from two different perspectives, i.e. the “insider” perspective of a Singaporean practitioner, and the “outsider” perspective of a New Zealand academic using a post‐colonial critique.

Findings

The findings indicate that Western LO practitioners need to pay specific attention to the cultural values expressed by non‐Western organisational members, and to their own cultural limitations and biases which may be embedded in the implementation of LO programmes. This process requires an active dialogue between both parties.

Practical implications

The findings indicate that practitioners need to pay specific attention to the cultural values of employees, and to the cultural assumptions of new management programmes, when adopting Western concepts of management to non‐Western organisations.

Originality/value

This is an empirical study that reveals the particular tensions experienced in two specific non‐Western organisations when LO practice was introduced without explicit exploration of its Western cultural underpinnings. The paper argues that the development of an LO discourse of organisational post‐colonialism can provide a valuable critical framework to examine the global mobilisation of LO concepts.
How does the capability approach address current issues in special educational needs, disability and inclusive education field?
Authors: Norwich Brahm
Published: August 2013

This paper aims to examine what the capability approach has to offer to the field of special needs and inclusive education. Several key questions are addressed: can the capability approach replace the language of needs and rights; whether the capability approach can address key issues in the field of disabilities and difficulties in education and whether it is possible to avoid the capability approach becoming a promising trend that ends in disappointment? It is concluded that there needs to be an awareness of its incompleteness and so needs integrating with other approaches. Nevertheless, it is argued that the capability approach provides a renewed ethical approach and some conceptual resources to re‐examine issues in the disability and education field.

A video abstract of this article can be viewed at: http://youtu.be/E3WwXuK‐jkg.
Validation of the Wider Outcomes Survey for Teachers (WOST): a measure for assessing the behaviour, relationships and exposure to bullying of children and young people with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND)
Authors: Wigelsworth Michael , Oldfield Jeremy , Humphrey Neil
Published: August 2013

The Wider Outcomes Survey for Teachers (WOST) is a teacher informant‐report questionnaire developed to aid the assessment of behaviour difficulties, quality of relationships and exposure to bullying among students identified with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND). This study examines the psychometric properties of the WOST in a validation sample representing 6164 students with SEND (mean age 12 years) drawn from 481 primary and secondary schools across England. Results showed favourable internal consistency using Cronbach's alpha and acceptable model fit using confirmatory factor analysis, both of which were invariant to broad categorisations of SEND. Practical utility and construct validity were also established by testing two theoretically derived hypotheses. The measure is therefore tentatively supported as a useful tool for assessing the wider outcomes of students with SEND.
Is Money Smart When Funds are Young?
Authors: Cho Sungbin , Shin Inseok
Published: August 2013

Researchers have explored whether fund flows can predict future fund performance with mixed results. We investigate the smart money effect in light of a rational agent model built on Berk and Green (2004, Journal of Political Economy, 112). When investors infer the managerial abilities of funds from past fund returns, assuming partial adjustment, the model implies that the smart money effect arises for young funds. Employing a Korean monthly dataset, we establish a smart money effect for young funds but not for the whole fund universe. Further analyses, however, indicate that the smart money effect lasts only one month, and is driven by investment flows responding to public information including past fund returns. The additional findings suggest that an alternative explanation based on non‐managerial characteristics, such as price pressure rather than superior managerial performance, cannot be ruled out yet.
Comparative Pharmacokinetics Study after Oral Administration of Geniposide in Normal Rats and Adjuvant‐induced Arthritis Rats by UPLC‐MS/MS
Authors: Li Hui , Wu Hong , Shen Chen , Chen Jin‐Yun , Hu Shun‐Li , Wu Huan
Published: August 2013

A simple and rapid ultra‐performance liquid chromatography–electrospray ionization tandem mass spectrometry (UPLC‐ESI‐MS/MS) method for quantitative analysis of geniposide (GE) in rat plasma was developed, validated and applied to determine the level of GE in rat plasma after oral administration of GE in adjuvant‐induced arthritis (AA) and normal rats. The investigation showed that there were significant differences in the groups between the normal rat and AA rat in pharmacokinetics parameters, such as the area under the time versus drug concentration curve (AUC (0‐∞)) (3.77 ± 0.68 versus 2.27 ± 0.42, p < 0.05), the apparent volume of distribution (V) (140.41 ± 2.07 versus 136.51 ± 1.03, p < 0.05), the mean residence time (MRT) (3.98 ± 0.90 versus 3.80 ± 0.50, p < 0.05) and the clearance from the total body (CL) (16.10 ± 2.87 versus 26.44 ± 4.94, p < 0.05). The results indicated that AA could alter the pharmacokinetics of the drug and these experimental findings could be useful for the further study of the clinical applications of GE.
The transcriptional programme of the androgen receptor (AR) in prostate cancer
Authors: Lamb Alastair D. , Massie Charlie E. , Neal David E.
Published: August 2013

The androgen receptor (AR) is essential for normal prostate and prostate cancer cell growth.

AR transcriptional activity is almost always maintained even in hormone relapsed prostate cancer (HRPC) in the absence of normal levels of circulating testosterone.

Current molecular techniques, such as chromatin‐immunoprecipitation sequencing (ChIP‐seq), have permitted identification of direct AR‐binding sites in cell lines and human tissue with a distinct coordinate network evident in HRPC.

The effectiveness of novel agents, such as abiraterone acetate (suppresses adrenal androgens) or enzalutamide (MDV3100, potent AR antagonist), in treating advanced prostate cancer underlines the on‐going critical role of the AR throughout all stages of the disease.

Persistent AR activity in advanced disease regulates cell cycle activity, steroid biosynthesis and anabolic metabolism in conjunction with regulatory co‐factors, such as the E2F family, c‐Myc and signal transducer and activator of transcription (STAT) transcription factors. Further treatment approaches must target these other factors.
Walking the Walk: Putting Design at the Heart of Business
Authors: Gardien Paul , Gilsing Ferdy
Published: August 2013

Design thinking comes to Philips, the health and wellbeing company.
Spawner escapement of European eel (Anguilla anguilla) from the River Erne, Ireland
Authors: McCarthy T. Kieran , Nowak Dariusz , Grennan Jon , Bateman Anne , Conneely Barbara , MacNamara Ruairi
Published: August 2013

Knowledge of silver eel production and escapement is essential for conservation of the European eel (Anguilla anguilla) stock. Silver eel trap and transport, being undertaken (2009–2012) to mitigate for negative impacts of hydropower on eels in some Irish rivers, was therefore monitored in the River Erne (catchment area 4375 km2). Eel population analyses at an experimental fishing weir involved mark–recapture experiments and sonar (DIDSON) surveys. Silver eel mortality rates at two hydropower stations were assessed by acoustic telemetry. The combined results of these studies enabled estimation of silver eel production and escapement for two migration seasons. For the 2010 season, production and escapement estimates were 42.5 t (1.62 kg·ha−1) and 38.8 t (1.48 kg·ha−1), respectively. For the 2011 season, production and escapement estimates were 44.6 t (1.70 kg·ha−1) and 41.8 t (1.59 kg·ha−1), respectively. Closure of all commercial eel fisheries and initiation of silver eel conservation fishing in 2009 resulted in 9.36, 19.33 and 25.25 t of silver eels being transported downstream of the hydropower dams in 2009, 2010 and 2011, respectively. The protocols developed in this study can be used to test models being used for eel population management in Ireland.
Impacts of a spring heat wave on canopy processes in a northern hardwood forest
Authors: Filewod Ben , Thomas Sean C.
Published: August 2013

Heat wave frequency, duration, and intensity are predicted to increase with global warming, but the potential impacts of short‐term high temperature events on forest functioning remain virtually unstudied. We examined canopy processes in a forest in Central Ontario following 3 days of record‐setting high temperatures (31–33 °C) that coincided with the peak in leaf expansion of dominant trees in late May 2010. Leaf area dynamics, leaf morphology, and leaf‐level gas‐exchange were compared to data from prior years of sampling (2002–2008) at the same site, focusing on Acer saccharum Marsh., the dominant tree in the region. Extensive shedding of partially expanded leaves was observed immediately following high temperature days, with A. saccharum losing ca. 25% of total leaf production but subsequently producing an unusual second flush of neoformed leaves. Both leaf losses and subsequent reflushing were highest in the upper canopy; however, retained preformed leaves and neoformed leaves showed reduced size, resulting in an overall decline in end‐of‐season leaf area index of 64% in A. saccharum, and 16% in the entire forest. Saplings showed lower leaf losses, but also a lower capacity to reflush relative to mature trees. Both surviving preformed and neoformed leaves had severely depressed photosynthetic capacity early in the summer of 2010, but largely regained photosynthetic competence by the end of the growing season. These results indicate that even short‐term heat waves can have severe impacts in northern forests, and suggest a particular vulnerability to high temperatures during the spring period of leaf expansion in temperate deciduous forests.
Polymorphism in cathelicidin gene (CAMP) that alters Hypoxia‐inducible factor (HIF‐1α::ARNT) binding is not associated with tuberculosis
Authors: López Campos G. N. , Velarde Félix J. S. , Sandoval Ramírez L. , Cázares Salazar S. , Corona Nakamura A. L. , Amaya Tapia G. , Prado Montes de Oca E.
Published: August 2013

Polymorphisms in the CAMP gene (cathelicidin) have not been tested in tuberculosis susceptibility. We tested polymorphisms rs9844812 (HIF‐1α::ARNT binding site) and rs56122065 (CAMP) plus rs1800972 (DEFB1). SNP rs1800972 was associated with extrapulmonary tuberculosis (EPTB) in a codominant model (genotype CG, P = 0.037, OR 4.82; 95% CI: 0.92–47.42; statistical power, 82%), but not PTB (P = 0.101) in a Mexican population.
Multipronged CD4+ T‐cell effector and memory responses cooperate to provide potent immunity against respiratory virus
Authors: Strutt Tara M. , McKinstry K. Kai , Marshall Nikki B. , Vong Allen M. , Dutton Richard W. , Swain Susan L.
Published: August 2013

Over the last decade, the known spectrum of CD4+ T‐cell effector subsets has become much broader, and it has become clear that there are multiple dimensions by which subsets with a particular cytokine commitment can be further defined, including their stage of differentiation, their location, and, most importantly, their ability to carry out discrete functions. Here, we focus on our studies that highlight the synergy among discrete subsets, especially those defined by helper and cytotoxic function, in mediating viral protection, and on distinctions between CD4+ T‐cell effectors located in spleen, draining lymph node, and in tissue sites of infection. What emerges is a surprising multiplicity of CD4+ T‐cell functions that indicate a large arsenal of mechanisms by which CD4+ T cells act to combat viruses.
Natural killer cells: multifaceted players with key roles in hepatitis C immunity
Authors: Golden‐Mason Lucy , Rosen Hugo R.
Published: August 2013

Natural killer cells (NKs) are involved in every stage of hepatitis C viral (HCV) infection, from protection against HCV acquisition and resolution in the acute phase to treatment‐induced clearance. In addition to their direct antiviral actions, NKs are involved in the induction and priming of appropriate downstream T‐cell responses. In the setting of chronic HCV, overall NK cell levels are decreased, subset distribution is altered, and changes in NK receptor (NKR) expression have been demonstrated, although the contribution of individual NKRs to viral clearance or persistence remains to be clarified. Enhanced NK cell cytotoxicity accompanied by insufficient interferon‐γ production may promote liver damage in the setting of chronic infection. Treatment‐induced clearance is associated with activation of NK cells, and it will be of interest to monitor NK cell responses to triple therapy. Activated NK cells also have anti‐fibrotic properties, and the same hepatic NK cell populations that are actively involved in control of HCV may also be involved in control of HCV‐associated liver damage. We still have much to learn, in particular: how do liver‐derived NKs influence the outcome of HCV infection? Do NK receptors recognize HCV‐specific components? And, are HCV‐specific memory NK populations generated?
Dual role of commensal bacteria in viral infections
Authors: Wilks Jessica , Beilinson Helen , Golovkina Tatyana V.
Published: August 2013

With our abilities to culture and sequence the commensal bacteria that dwell on and within a host, we can now study the host in its entirety, as a supraorganism that must be navigated by the pathogen invader. At present, the majority of studies have focused on the interaction between the host's microbiota and bacterial pathogens. This is not unwarranted, given that bacterial pathogens must compete with commensal organisms for the limited territory afforded by the host. However, viral pathogens also enter the host through surfaces coated with microbial life and encounter an immune system shaped by this symbiotic community. Therefore, we believe that the microbiota cannot be ignored when examining the interplay between the host and viral pathogens. Here, we review work that details mechanisms by which the microbiota either promotes or inhibits viral replication and virally induced pathogenesis. The impact of the microbitota on viral infection promises to be a new and exciting avenue of investigation, which will ultimately lead to better treatments and preventions of virally induced disease.
Nursing Diagnoses in Pemphigus Vulgaris: A Case Study
Authors: Pena Silvana B. , Guimarães Heloísa C. Q. C. P. , Bassoli Sidinéia R. B. , Casarin Santina N. A. , Herdman Trace Heather , de Barros Alba L. B. L.
Published: August 2013

Purpose

This case study illustrates the use of the nursing process based upon the standardized nursing diagnoses approved by NANDA International (NANDA‐I), and using the Nursing Outcomes Classification (NOC) and the Nursing Interventions Classification (NIC) in the care of a patient with pemphigus vulgaris (PV).

Data Sources

The published literature on PV and the experience and expertise of the authors in working with people with impaired skin integrity and PV were used to develop this case study.

Data Synthesis

The accuracy of nursing diagnoses and appropriateness of the nursing interventions were supported by the positive health outcomes of the patient.

Conclusion

Impaired skin integrity is a human response diagnosed by nurses, and early treatment is important due to the vulnerability of these patients.

Implications for Nursing Practice

The case study contributes to nursing knowledge for professionals who care for patients with PV.

Objetivo

Este estudo de caso ilustra o uso do processo de enfermagem baseado na padronização dos diagnósticos de enfermagem aprovados pela NANDA International (NANDA‐I), e da classificação de resultados de enfermagem (NOC) e da classificação de intervenções de enfermagem (NIC) na assistência ao paciente com penfigo vulgar.

Revisão de literatura

As publicações na literatura sobre penfigo vulgar e a experiência e expertise dos autores na assistência a pessoas com integridade da pele prejudicada e pênfigo vulgar foram utilizadas para o desenvolvimento deste estudo de caso.

Análise de dados

A acurácia dos diagnósticos de enfermagem e as intervenções apropriadas foram suportes positivos nos resultados na saúde do paciente.

Conclusão

Integridade da pele prejudicada é uma resposta humana diagnosticada por enfermeiros, e o tratamento precoce é importante devido a vulnerabilidade destes pacientes.

Implicações para a prática de enfermagem

O estudo de caso contribui para o conhecimento dos profissionais de enfermagem que cuidam de pacientes com pênfigo vulgar.
Mineralogical Evolution of Kaolin‐Based Drinking Water Treatment Waste for Use as Pozzolanic Material. The Effect of Activation Temperature
Authors: Frias Moisés , de la Villa Raquel V. , García Rosario , Sánchez de Rojas María I. , Baloa Trino A.
Published: August 2013

This study reports on exhaustive scientific research into the influence of the activation temperature of inert waste from drinking water treatment plants for use as supplementary cementing material in cements. The effect of activation temperature on the mineralogy of the reactive products resulting from pozzolanic activity and on the evolution of the hydrated phases formed during the pozzolanic reaction at 28 d of curing was analyzed with the assistance of different instrumental techniques such asX‐ray fluorescence,X‐ray diffraction, thermogravimetric analysis, infrared spectroscopy, and scanning electron microscopy. The results show that all the activated products (based on metakaolinite) presented high pozzolanic activity at all ages of the reaction (up to 90 d), although 600°C at 2 h are the recommended ideal activation conditions from an energetic and economic viewpoint. The activation temperature (600°C–900°C for 2 h of retention) plays an important role in the reaction kinetics in activated drinking water waste/Ca(OH)2systems. The hydrated phases identified under these activation conditions were very similar, but with important differences in the crystalline aluminates phases content. Thus, the formation of stratlingite (C2ASH8) is favored at low temperatures (<800°C); whereas at higher temperatures (at 900°C), tetra calcium aluminate hydrate (C4AH13) appears as the only crystalline phase. Finally, this type of treatment of drinking water waste (based on kaolinite) is ideal to obtain future pozzolans based on recycled metakaoline, a product that is currently listed in international standards for the manufacture of commercial cements.
Somatometric measurements, and clinical chemistry and hematology parameters in Tibetan macaque (Macaca thibetana)
Authors: Wu D. , Jiang W.Y. , Yang F. , Wei S.Y. , Zhou L. , Yi Y. , Wang H.X. , Zhang Y.A. , Yue F.
Published: August 2013

Background

Limited physiological data for Tibetan macaques are available at present. This study will provide more rationale for evaluating this species.

Methods

Thirty‐seven Tibetan macaques (15 males and 22 females) were used in this study. Somatometric measurements, clinical chemistry and hematology parameters, insulin, and C‐peptide were analyzed.

Results

Females had higher values of waist and waist hip ratio (WHR) than males in somatometric measurements. There were no significant differences between the two genders in hematology. Significant differences between males and females were only found for aspartate aminotransferase (AST) and alanine aminotransferase (ALT) in biochemistry testing. In addition, females had higher fasting insulin and C‐peptide than males. There was a strongly positive correlation between age and some somatometric parameters.

Conclusions

These physiological data will provide veterinarians and researchers with baseline values to evaluate experimental results using Tibetan macaques.
Congenital Reproductive Abnormalities
Authors: Lankford Janice C. , Mancuso Peggy , Appel Roberta
Published: August 2013

Congenital defects of the reproductive system are associated with a number of adverse health consequences. The pathophysiology of these defects is thought to be müllerian abnormalities, but they can also be attributed to failure of cells to degenerate appropriately during embryogenesis. The management of these congenital defects is dependent on the type of defect present and the severity of presentation. Women with congenital defects of the reproductive system have physical as well as psychosocial issues that must be addressed, and the condition frequently creates medical challenges for health care providers.
Teachers' Awareness of the Learner–Teacher Interaction: Preliminary Communication of a Study Investigating the Teaching Brain
Authors: Rodriguez Vanessa , Lynneth Solis S.
Published: August 2013

A new phase of research on teaching is under way that seeks to understand the teaching brain. In this vein, this study investigated the cognitive processes employed by master teachers. Using an interview protocol influenced by microgenetic techniques, 23 master teachers used the Self‐in‐Relation‐to‐Teaching (SiR2T) tool to answer “What are you focusing your mind on throughout the process of teaching?” A number of emergent themes were identified in participants' responses and one, awareness of interaction, is discussed here. This theme refers to teachers' recognition of the learner–teacher (L‐T) relationship as a separate entity or system. Within interaction, at least three types of awarenesses emerged in teachers' responses: (1) connection, (2) collaboration, and (3) mutual effects. Furthermore, some teachers described a sense of synergy with their students due to this L‐T interaction. The results suggest that a teacher's awareness of interaction plays an important role in the teaching brain, and support the implications of the proposed teaching brain framework.
Teaching as a Cultural and Relationship‐Based Activity
Authors: McConville Alistair G.
Published: August 2013

The process of teaching is not selfless, as some suggest. Rather, in its best manifestations it is an ideologically and culturally loaded activity in which teachers and institutions seek to perpetuate a certain integrated view of the world for their own benefit, for that of their learners, and for society more generally. This takes place most effectively when positive teacher–student relationships underpin face‐to‐face educational exchanges in which teachers engagingly make the case for the existential significance of their subject matter.
Mindfulness for Teachers: A Pilot Study to Assess Effects on Stress, Burnout, and Teaching Efficacy
Authors: Flook Lisa , Goldberg Simon B. , Pinger Laura , Bonus Katherine , Davidson Richard J.
Published: August 2013

Despite the crucial role of teachers in fostering children's academic learning and social–emotional well‐being, addressing teacher stress in the classroom remains a significant challenge in education. This study reports results from a randomized controlled pilot trial of a modified Mindfulness‐Based Stress Reduction course (mMBSR) adapted specifically for teachers. Results suggest that the course may be a promising intervention, with participants showing significant reductions in psychological symptoms and burnout, improvements in observer‐rated classroom organization and performance on a computer task of affective attentional bias, and increases in self‐compassion. In contrast, control group participants showed declines in cortisol functioning over time and marginally significant increases in burnout. Furthermore, changes in mindfulness were correlated in the expected direction with changes across several outcomes (psychological symptoms, burnout, and sustained attention) in the intervention group. Implications of these findings for the training and support of teachers are discussed.
Effects of Cyclosporine A in Ex Vivo Reperfused Pig Lungs
Authors: Gennai Stéphane , Souilamas Redha , Maignan Maxime , Brouta Angélique , Pison Christophe , Fontaine Eric , Briot Raphaël
Published: August 2013

Objective

Several works highlight the role of CsA in the prevention of IRI, but none focus on isolated lungs. Our objective was to evaluate the effects of CsA on IRI on ex vivo reperfused pig lungs.

Methods

Thirty‐two pairs of pig lungs were collected and stored for 30 minutes at 4°C. The study was performed in four groups. First, a control group and then three groups receiving different concentrations of CsA (1, 10, and 30 μM) at two different times: once at the moment of lung procurement and another during the reperfusion procedure. The ex vivo lung preparation was set up using an extracorporeal perfusion circuit. Gas exchange parameters, pulmonary hemodynamics, and biological markers of lung injury were collected for the evaluation.

Results

CsA improved the PaO2/FiO2 ratio, but it also increased PAP, Pcap, and pulmonary vascular resistances with dose‐dependent effects. Lungs treated with high doses of CsA displayed higher capillary‐alveolar permeability to proteins, lower AFC capacities, and elevated concentrations of pro‐inflammatory cytokines.

Conclusions

These data suggest a possible deleterious imbalance between the beneficial cell properties of CsA in IRI and its hemodynamic effects on microvascularization.
III. NIH TOOLBOX COGNITION BATTERY (CB): MEASURING EPISODIC MEMORY
Authors: Bauer Patricia J. , Dikmen Sureyya S. , Heaton Robert K. , Mungas Dan , Slotkin Jerry , Beaumont Jennifer L.
Published: August 2013

One of the most significant domains of cognition is episodic memory, which allows for rapid acquisition and long‐term storage of new information. For purposes of the NIH Toolbox, we devised a new test of episodic memory. The nonverbal NIH Toolbox Picture Sequence Memory Test (TPSMT) requires participants to reproduce the order of an arbitrarily ordered sequence of pictures presented on a computer. To adjust for ability, sequence length varies from 6 to 15 pictures. Multiple trials are administered to increase reliability. Pediatric data from the validation study revealed the TPSMT to be sensitive to age‐related changes. The task also has high test–retest reliability and promising construct validity. Steps to further increase the sensitivity of the instrument to individual and age‐related variability are described.
VI. NIH TOOLBOX COGNITION BATTERY (CB): MEASURING PROCESSING SPEED
Authors: Carlozzi Noelle E. , Tulsky David S. , Kail Robert V. , Beaumont Jennifer L.
Published: August 2013

This chapter focuses on the Toolbox Pattern Comparison Processing Speed Test, which was developed to assess processing speed within the NIH Toolbox Cognition Battery (CB). We describe the development of the test, highlighting its utility in children. In addition, we examine descriptive data, test–retest reliability, validity, and preliminary work creating a composite index of processing speed. Results indicated that most children were able to understand the basic concepts of the Toolbox Pattern Comparison Processing Speed Test. Further, test–retest reliability was excellent. Analyses examining convergent and discriminant validity provided support for the utility of the test as a measure of processing speed. Finally, analyses comparing and combining scores on the Toolbox Pattern Comparison Processing Speed Test with other measures of simple reaction time from the NIH Toolbox CB indicated that a Processing Speed Composite score performed better than any test examined in isolation. Taken together, the Toolbox Pattern Comparison Processing Speed Test appears to exhibit a number of strengths: it is child‐friendly and engaging, short and easy to administer, and has good construct validity, especially when used as part of a composite score.
Emerging evidence for tea benefits
Authors: Ruxton C.
Published: August 2013

Tea is the most commonly consumed beverage in the world, after water. Associations between regular tea drinking and a reduced risk of coronary heart disease are well established. The mechanism may relate to bioactive compounds found in tea, which exert anti‐arteriosclerotic, anti‐oxidative and anti‐inflammatory effects. However, evidence for other diverse health benefits is emerging. The aim of this review was to evaluate research on three new areas of interest in relation to tea drinking: (1) weight management (and glycaemic control); (2) oral health; and (3) gut health. Databases were searched for meta‐analytical, human intervention and epidemiological studies published between 1990 and 2013. For weight management, modest, positive effects were found for green tea when ingested by overweight/obese adults, possibly related to thermogenic effects. Epidemiological studies indicate that tea drinking in general may protect against tooth loss, certain oral/digestive cancers and Helicobacter pylori infection, although the studies were few in number with differing methodologies. A growing body of mechanistic studies suggests that tea has anti‐cariogenic, anti‐adhesive, anti‐bacterial and possible pre‐biotic effects – all with the potential to impact positively on the pathogenesis of chronic diseases. Clearly, larger trials are needed to confirm these effects in humans and establish optimal intakes. In the meantime, tea drinking appears to be a simple and beneficial way to support health.
Nutritional approaches to the management of sarcopenia
Authors: Greig C. A.
Published: August 2013

Sarcopenia is defined as a decline in muscle mass and/or function, which is a consequence of ageing. The consequences of a declining muscle mass become serious if functionally important thresholds for physical independence are crossed, and this will occur more readily in the presence of disease. Although sarcopenia is of complex aetiology, contributory factors likely include habitual sedentarism and/or deficits in the responsiveness of muscle protein synthesis to physical activity and nutrition, as well as impaired muscular regenerative capacity. Altered inflammatory, immune and endocrine functions are also associated with sarcopenia, in addition to phenomena such as a reduced response to oxidative stress, metabolic acidosis and nutritional (e.g.vitamin D) deficiencies. Sarcopenia is associated with malnutrition, which may contribute to the poor muscle function observed in many older adults, particularly in frail patient groups. The problem is that as a result of anabolic resistance, simply increasing dietary protein ‘chronically’ in older age may not be effective. When exercise and nutritional interventions are combined in the form of resistance exercise training plus protein/essential amino acid supplementation, there is evidence of some benefit for older adults in terms of improved muscle function, but further research is needed in adults aged over 75 years. In addition, there are as yet relatively under‐researched intervention strategies (timing and distribution of protein supplementation; novel nutriceuticals, vitamin D) bearing potential utility in improving responsiveness to physical activity and nutrition in old age.
Chronic Implantation of Intravascular Cardioverter Defibrillator in a Canine Model: Device Stability, Vascular Patency, and Anchor Histology
Authors: MERKELY BELA , MOLNAR LEVENTE , GELLER LASZLO , NEUZIL PETR , SKODA JAN , BEDNAREK JACEK , BARTUS KRZYSZTOF , REDDY VIVEK Y. , SANDERS WILLIAM E.
Published: August 2013

Introduction

A percutaneously placed implantable intravascular defibrillator (PICD) has been developed with a right ventricular (RV) single‐coil lead and titanium electrodes in the superior vena cava (SVC) and the inferior vena cava (IVC). This study evaluated implant techniques, device stability, and anchor histology of the PICD over 9 months in a canine model.

Methods

Twenty‐four hounds (wt = 30–55 kg) were anesthetized and a custom sheath introduced into the right femoral vein. The PICD was advanced over a wire and positioned with the titanium electrodes (cathodes) in the SVC and the IVC. A nitinol anchor secured the device in the jugular. The RV lead was positioned in the RV apex and screwed into place. The catheters, wires, and sheath were removed with an average implant time of 14 minutes. In one group of animals (n = 13), serial venograms were performed at 7 days, 14 days, and 28 days. In a second group (n = 6) and third group (n = 5), venograms were also performed at 90 days and 270 days, respectively. Six canines were sacrificed and anchor histologic examination done at 90 days.

Results

All implants were successful with no surgical complications observed. Devices (N = 24) remained appropriately positioned with no anchor migration. Histology at 90 days showed 98% endothelialization of the anchor. Venograms revealed patent IVC and jugular veins in all animals at every time point examined.

Conclusions

The PICD can be rapidly and chronically implanted in animals. Long‐term intravascular defibrillator placement is feasible in a canine model.
The actin cytoskeleton is a suppressor of the endogenous skewing behaviour of Arabidopsis primary roots in microgravity
Authors: Nakashima J. , Liao F. , Sparks J. A. , Tang Y. , Blancaflor E. B.
Published: August 2013

Before plants can be effectively utilised as a component of enclosed life‐support systems for space exploration, it is important to understand the molecular mechanisms by which they develop in microgravity. Using the Biological Research in Canisters (BRIC) hardware on board the second to the last flight of the Space Shuttle Discovery (STS‐131 mission), we studied how microgravity impacts root growth in Arabidopsis thaliana. Ground‐based studies showed that the actin cytoskeleton negatively regulates root gravity responses on Earth, leading us to hypothesise that actin might also be an important modulator of root growth behaviour in space. We investigated how microgravity impacted root growth of wild type (ecotype Columbia) and a mutant (act2‐3) disrupted in a root‐expressed vegetative actin isoform (ACTIN2). Roots of etiolated wild‐type and act2‐3 seedlings grown in space skewed vigorously toward the left, which was unexpected given the reduced directional cue provided by gravity. The left‐handed directional root growth in space was more pronounced in act2‐3 mutants than wild type. To quantify differences in root orientation of these two genotypes in space, we developed an algorithm where single root images were converted into binary images using computational edge detection methods. Binary images were processed with Fast Fourier Transformation (FFT), and histogram and entropy were used to determine spectral distribution, such that high entropy values corresponded to roots that deviated more strongly from linear orientation whereas low entropy values represented straight roots. We found that act2‐3 roots had a statistically stronger skewing/coiling response than wild‐type roots, but such differences were not apparent on Earth. Ultrastructural studies revealed that newly developed cell walls of space‐grown act2‐3 roots were more severely disrupted compared to space‐grown wild type, and ground control wild‐type and act2‐3 roots. Collectively, our results provide evidence that, like root gravity responses on Earth, endogenous directional growth patterns of roots in microgravity are suppressed by the actin cytoskeleton. Modulation of root growth in space by actin could be facilitated in part through its impact on cell wall architecture.
RIP2/RICK‐Dependent Cytokine Production Upon Yersinia enterocolitica Infection in Macrophages with TLR4 Deficiency
Authors: Jeong Y.‐J. , Kim C.‐H. , Kim J.‐C. , Oh S.‐M. , Lee K.‐B. , Park J.‐H. , Kim D.‐J.
Published: August 2013

Receptor‐interacting protein 2 (RIP2) is a caspase recruitment domain (CARD)‐containing serine/threonine kinase that is activated by NOD1 or NOD2 recognition of their ligands and essential for the activation of NF‐κB and mitogen‐activated protein kinase (MAPK). RIP2 has been known to play an important role in innate immune responses against certain bacterial infection. However, the role and interplay of RIP2 with TLR signalling on cytokine production in macrophages against Yersinia enterocolitica infection remains poorly understood. In the present study, we examined whether RIP2 is essential for Yersinia‐induced production of cytokines in macrophages. Our results showed that naïve RIP2‐deficient macrophages produced similar level of IL‐6, TNF‐α and IL‐10 upon Y. enterocolitica infection compared with wild‐type macrophages. However, the production of IL‐6, TNF‐α and IL‐10 by Y. enterocolitica was impaired in RIP2‐deficient macrophages after lipopolysaccharide (LPS) pretreatment, a TLR4‐tolerant condition. In addition, RIP2 inhibitors, SB203580, PP2, and gefitinib, reduced IL‐6 production in TLR4‐deficient macrophages in response to Y. enterocolitica, whereas they did not affect the cytokines production in WT cells. These results demonstrate that RIP2 may play an important role in proinflammatory cytokine production in macrophages at the absence of TLR signalling.
One Man's Rubbish … Active Learning Using Old Bottle Tops
Authors: Orlando Clare , Orlando Antonio
Published: August 2013

This is an activity for younger learners in which the concepts of relative frequency and probability are explored, illustrating how a creative, non‐transmission teaching approach using bottle tops can enable students to develop their understanding in an engaging fashion and at almost no cost.
On the Importance of Time for GIS View Measures and Their Use in Hedonic Property Models: Does Being Temporally Explicit Matter?
Authors: Crawford Thomas W. , Bin Okmyung , Kruse Jamie B. , Landry Craig E.
Published: August 2013

Progress in GIScience has advanced the ability to represent and analyze view characteristics. GIS‐derived view measures requiring digital elevation surface models are used in hedonic property models to quantify the amenity value of view for parcel sales transactions. Ideally models should represent surface elevations that are temporally synchronized with parcel sale dates. Temporal synchronization for studies spanning multiple years may require significant effort. Few studies have undertaken this effort, leading us to investigate in this research the need to be temporally explicit. We evaluate two competing surface model approaches based on: (1) a single year 2000 LiDAR surface product; and (2) annual‐specific surface products for 1995–2002. Two competing view measures based on the different surface approaches are constructed for 561 parcel transactions during 1995–2002 in a coastal North Carolina county and are input into hedonic regression models. Results showed that being temporally explicit did matter in terms of finding significantly different view measures but did not matter in terms of finding significantly different effects of view on parcel sales prices. Despite mixed results for our case study, we advise that future research involving GIS‐based view measurement should consider the spatial and temporal contexts of study area development patterns when evaluating the need to be temporally explicit.
Modular Turbulence Modeling Applied to an Engine Intake
Authors: Oriji Ugochukwu R. , Tucker Paul G.
Published: August 2013

The one equation Spalart–Allmaras (SA) turbulence model in an extended modular form is presented. It is employed for the prediction of crosswind flow around the lip of a 90 deg sector of an intake with and without surface roughness. The flow features around the lip are complex. There exists a region of high streamline curvature. For this, the Richardson number would suggest complete degeneration to laminar flow. Also, there are regions of high favorable pressure gradient (FPG) sufficient to laminarize a turbulent boundary layer (BL). This is all terminated by a shock and followed by a laminar separation. Under these severe conditions, the SA model is insensitive to capturing the effects of laminarization and the reenergization of eddy viscosity. The latter promotes the momentum transfer and correct reattachment prior to the fan face. Through distinct modules, the SA model has been modified to account for the effect of laminarization and separation induced transition. The modules have been implemented in the Rolls-Royce HYDRA computational fluid dynamic (CFD) solver. They have been validated over a number of experimental test cases involving laminarization and also surface roughness. The validated modules are finally applied in unsteady Reynolds-averaged Navier–Stokes (URANS) mode to flow around an engine intake and comparisons made with measurements. Encouraging agreement is found and hence advances made towards a more reliable intake design framework.
Reliability of a Hydrostatic Bearing
Authors: Charki A. , Diop K. , Champmartin S. , Ambari A.
Published: August 2013

This paper presents a methodology for evaluating the failure probability of fluid bearings, which are sensitive components for the design of machine rotors, mechatronic systems, and high precision metrology. The static and dynamic behavior of a fluid bearing depends on several parameters, such as external load, bearing dimensions, supply pressure, quality of the machined surfaces, fluid properties, etc. In this paper, the characteristics of a simple geometry hydrostatic bearing are calculated analytically in order to demonstrate the usefulness of the methodology and its pertinence to bearing design. Monte Carlo simulation and first order reliability method (FORM) are used to evaluate the probability of failure.
Application of activity pencil beam algorithm using measured distribution data of positron emitter nuclei for therapeutic SOBP proton beam
Authors: Miyatake Aya , Nishio Teiji
Published: August 2013

Purpose:

Recently, much research on imaging the clinical proton‐irradiated volume using positron emitter nuclei based on target nuclear fragment reaction has been carried out. The purpose of this study is to develop an activity pencil beam (APB) algorithm for a simulation system for proton‐activated positron‐emitting imaging in clinical proton therapy using spread‐out Bragg peak (SOBP) beams.

Methods:

The target nuclei of activity distribution calculations are12C nuclei, 16O nuclei, and 40Ca nuclei, which are the main elements in a human body. Depth activity distributions with SOBP beam irradiations were obtained from the material information of ridge filter (RF) and depth activity distributions of compounds of the three target nuclei measured by BOLPs‐RGp (beam ON‐LINE PET system mounted on a rotating gantry port) with mono‐energetic Bragg peak (MONO) beam irradiations. The calculated data of depth activity distributions with SOBP beam irradiations were sorted in terms of kind of nucleus, energy of proton beam, SOBP width, and thickness of fine degrader (FD), which were verified. The calculated depth activity distributions with SOBP beam irradiations were compared with the measured ones. APB kernels were made from the calculated depth activity distributions with SOBP beam irradiations to construct a simulation system using the APB algorithm for SOBP beams.

Results:

The depth activity distributions were prepared using the material information of RF and the measured depth activity distributions with MONO beam irradiations for clinical therapy using SOBP beams. With the SOBP width widening, the distal fall‐offs of depth activity distributions and the difference from the depth dose distributions were large. The shapes of the calculated depth activity distributions nearly agreed with those of the measured ones upon comparison between the two. The APB kernels of SOBP beams were prepared by making use of the data on depth activity distributions with SOBP beam irradiations that were made from the depth activity distributions with MONO beam irradiations and sorted in terms of energy, SOBP width, and thickness of FD. The data on APB kernels of SOBP beams were determined as installment data for the simulation system using the APB algorithm for SOBP beam irradiations.

Conclusions:

A method of obtaining the depth activity distributions and the APB algorithm for clinical use of SOBP beams have been developed. It is suggested that the simulation system for imaging the clinical irradiated volume with the APB algorithm can be used in clinical proton therapy using SOBP beams by preparing and investigating the data on APB kernels of SOBP beams.