bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
O espetáculo do Ipiranga: reflexões preliminares sobre o imaginário da Independência
Authors: Oliveira Cecilia Helena de Salles
Published: June 2010

Este artigo constitui uma incursão inicial em relação ao tema do imaginário da Independência. Toma como questão central a construção de um monumento no Ipiranga, celebrativo da data de 7 de Setembro de 1822, e se propõe a discutir tal projeto, conforme foi formulado na década de 1870.
A conformação dos ecomuseus: elementos para compreensão e análise
Authors: Barbuy Heloisa
Published: June 2010

Apresenta uma história dos ecomuseus enraizado nos movimentos de folclore e etnografia regional, do final do século XIX até os dias de hoje, examinando o caso francês. Explora aspectos em geral menos enfatizados neste campo, tal como a natureza e o papel atribuído aos acervos e ao patrimônio cultural e padrões museográticos.
Indumentária e moda: seleção bibliográfica em português
Authors: Almeida Adilson José de
Published: June 2010

Foram descritivamente listados livros e capítulos de livros, traduzidos ou originalmente escritos em português, entre 1979 e 1996 e referentes a vários aspectos da indumentária e da moda. O objetivo é fornecer um quadro de referência de acesso imediato tanto para o especialista, como para o leigo. A lista propriamente dita está precedida por uma caracterização geral da bibliografia e por um tratamento mais demorado daqueles autores que se considerou representarem algumas importantes vertentes neste domínio.
Democracia e justiça
Authors: Vita Álvaro de
Published: June 2010

Examinam-se as relações entre democracia e justiça na teoria política contemporânea. Após evidenciar as insuficiências da vertente competitiva da democracia com respeito a esse tópico, argumenta-se que necessitamos recorrer a uma concepção "epistêmica" de democracia deliberativa, para a qual há um padrão independente de legitimidade política com base no qual os resultados de procedimentos deliberativos devem ser avaliados. Os limites dessa concepção epistêmica, sobretudo no que se refere ao lugar que nela deve ser reservado à competição e ao conflito políticos, são discutidos.
Implantação de sistemas de gestão ambiental ISO 14001: uma contribuição da área de gestão de pessoas
Authors: Oliveira Otávio José de , Pinheiro Camila Roberta Muniz Serra
Published: June 2010

Os sistemas certificáveis de gestão ambiental, como a norma ISO 14001, têm sido uma opção cada vez mais utilizada pelas organizações para equacionarem suas demandas ambientais, padronizarem seu processo produtivo, reduzirem custos de produção e melhorarem sua imagem. Entretanto, seu processo de implantação em indústrias gera mudanças significativas na cultura e estrutura destas empresas e devem ser devidamente consideradas por gestores e consultores. Pelo exposto, o principal objetivo deste artigo é apresentar práticas, sistematizadas à luz da teoria com especial contribuição da área de gestão de pessoas e com base em dois estudos de caso, para implantação de sistemas de gestão ambiental ISO 14001 em empresas industriais. Para tanto, foram realizados dois estudos de caso: um em uma empresa de baterias automotivas e outro em uma empresa moveleira. Os dados foram coletados a partir de entrevistas semiestruturadas com os gestores diretamente responsáveis por estes sistemas e com colaboradores-chave, observação in loco e análise de documentos. Ao final do artigo são apresentadas sugestões de práticas relacionadas aos seguintes elementos: alta direção, gestão de pessoas, comitê de gestão ambiental, missão e políticas, treinamento e comunicação.
La individuación y el trabajo de los individuos
Authors: Araujo Kathya , Martuccelli Danilo
Published: June 2010

Este artículo parte por reconocer la creciente importancia del individuo para la comprensión de las sociedades en el momento actual al mismo tiempo que subrayar ciertos impasses cuando la estrategia privilegiada para ello es la socialización o la subjetivación. En este contexto, y una vez formuladas una serie de críticas a estas vías, el artículo presenta y desarrolla las maneras en que es posible desde la individuación dar cuenta por un lado, a escala del individuo, de las principales pruebas de un tipo de sociedad y, por el otro, analizar concretamente las maneras como en este marco los individuos son capaces de construirse como sujetos.
Um modelo conceitual da decisão de criação de escritório de projetos na área de TI
Authors: Spelta Andrea Giovanni , Albertin Alberto Luiz
Published: June 2010

Escritórios de projetos (EP) são entidades organizacionais às quais são atribuídas diversas responsabilidades relacionadas ao gerenciamento de projetos da organização. Em virtude da aceleração dos investimentos em tecnologia de informação (TI) e do aumento da importância estratégica desses investimentos, a criação dessas entidades começou a se intensificar na década de 1990. Muito embora grandes empresas tenham criado um EP na área de TI (EP-TI), outras optaram por não fazer isso. Este artigo apresenta um modelo conceitual dos direcionadores da decisão de criação de EP-TI, sugerindo que essa decisão depende da satisfação com a entrega dos projetos de TI, da satisfação com o controle do portfólio de projetos de TI, da importância estratégica do portfólio de projetos de TI e da opinião da direção da empresa sobre EP. O modelo foi desenvolvido indutivamente com base na literatura e em quatro estudos de casos. Esta pesquisa contribui para o desenvolvimento da teoria contextual de gerenciamento de projetos por meio do aumento da compreensão das situações em que a criação de EP-TI faz sentido e das situações em que não faz. Para a prática, o modelo conceitual pode ser uma ferramenta muito útil para executivos que estão considerando se devem ou não criar um EP-TI em suas empresas, ajudando-os a tomar decisões mais eficazes.
Permeability and internal erosion of a GCL beneath coarse gravel
Authors: Dickinson S. , Brachman R.W.I.
Published: June 2010

ABSTRACT: Experimental results from flow tests to assess the hydraulic performance of a geosynthetic clay liner (GCL) when subjected to extrusion beneath coarse (50 mm) gravel are reported. Although the permittivity was slightly higher then when loaded uniformly, it remained very low (6.3 × 10−10 s−1) when the GCL was placed directly beneath coarse gravel and subjected to 250 kPa of overburden pressure. In some cases, hydraulic failure from internal erosion was observed when the final GCL thickness beneath the gravel contact was less than 3.5 mm. The GCL was much more susceptible to failure from internal erosion when a geotextile protection layer was installed above the GCL as a result of the increased transmissivity between the gravel and GCL allowing the large head to act on the thinnest part of the GCL. The head required to result in failure of the GCL by internal erosion decreased as the minimum thickness of the GCL decreased and it was very sensitive to thickness being less than 1 m for a GCL thickness less than 2 mm and at least 100 m for a GCL thickness greater than 3.5 mm. The results suggest that if a protection layer is selected to limit the tensile strains in an overlying geomembrane to less than 3%, the reductions in GCL thickness from bentonite extrusion would be sufficiently small such that the particular GCL tested would not be at risk of hydraulic failure from internal erosion for the conditions tested for most practical cases (i.e. heads much less than 100 m).
Design of a landfill final cover system
Authors: Stark T.D. , Newman E.J.
Published: June 2010

ABSTRACT: This paper describes a final cover slope failure at a municipal solid waste containment facility. The lessons learned from this case history include: (i) slope stability analyses should be conducted whenever field conditions differ from initial design assumptions, such as a steeper slope and different geosynthetics; (ii) published values of interface strength/friction angle should not be used for final design, instead site-specific interface testing should be used; (iii) final cover slope angle should not exceed the lowest geosynthetic interface strength in the cover system to prevent tension in the geosynthetics and/or progressive slope failure of the slope; and (v) designers should resist the temptation to utilise a pre-existing final cover design without performing the necessary field reconnaissance, interface testing, analysis, and design for the new site.
Numerical study of the effect of geosynthetic encasement on the behaviour of granular columns
Authors: Khabbazian M. , Kaliakin V.N. , Meehan C.L.
Published: June 2010

ABSTRACT: In very soft soils, the use of granular columns can be restricted due to the lack of adequate lateral confining pressure. In these conditions, the columns can be encased by a suitable geosynthetic to provide the required confining pressure and to increase their bearing capacity. Using a high-strength geosynthetic for confinement not only increases the strength of a granular column, but also prevents lateral displacement of the column into the very soft surrounding soil. This paper describes three-dimensional finite element analyses carried out to simulate the behaviour of a single granular column with and without encasement in a very soft clay using the computer program ABAQUS. Comprehensive numerical analyses were performed to study the influence of the geosynthetic stiffness, the friction and dilation angle of the column material, the length of geosynthetic encasement, the diameter of the column, the length of the column and the coefficient of in situ lateral earth pressure. Model results show that the stress–settlement behaviour of granular columns can be significantly improved by encasing them. The stiffness of the encasement was found to have a major effect on the stress–settlement response of encased columns and their associated load-carrying capacity. For partially encased columns, the optimum length of encasement was found to be a function of the stress that is applied to the column.
Wetting-drying behaviour of geogrid-reinforced clay under working load conditions
Authors: Pathak Y.P. , Alfaro M.C.
Published: June 2010

ABSTRACT: Large-scale plane-strain laboratory wetting–drying tests on geosynthetic-reinforced and unreinforced expansive clay specimens were performed to assess the interaction between geogrid and clay during wetting and drying. Independent vertical and lateral pressures were applied to the specimens to simulate anisotropic loading condition in the field. The wetting and drying processes were simulated by flooding the test specimens with water and subsequently removing water from the test box for drying the test specimens. Further drying of the test specimens was done by circulating warm air of about 35°C on both top and bottom of the test specimens. Geogrid reinforcement strains, soil specimen deformations, soil suctions and soil temperatures were monitored during the wetting–drying process. Additional strains were observed in the geogrid reinforcement due to a wetting–drying cycle of the expansive clay specimens. These strain levels were however considered minimal (less than 1% strain) to cause overstressing in the reinforcement. Overall, the geogrid reinforcement reduced the swelling of clay specimens.
Anisotropy and directional shrinkage of geosynthetic clay liners
Authors: Bostwick L. , Rowe R.K. , Take W.A. , Brachman R.W.I.
Published: June 2010

ABSTRACT: Results are reported from laboratory experiments to examine the potential shrinkage of two different geosynthetic clay liners (GCLs) when subject to repeated wetting and drying cycles. One GCL had a scrim-reinforced nonwoven carrier geotextile (denoted as GCL2) and the other had a nonwoven carrier geotextile (GCL4). Tests were conducted with both restrained and unrestrained GCL specimens of the same size as well as restrained specimens with different specimen sizes and length-to-width aspect ratios. For unrestrained specimens, there was no apparent difference between shrinkage in the transverse and longitudinal directions for GCL2, whereas GCL4 tended to shrink more in the longitudinal direction. There was only a small difference between restrained and unrestrained tests, with the restrained specimens giving a maximum strain about 1.1 times higher than the unrestrained for GCL4. There was no clear effect of the specimen size on the measured shrinkage. For restrained specimens, shrinkage increased with increasing aspect ratio up to an aspect ratio of approximately 5. The dry mass per unit area of the product was found not to affect shrinkage when the mass per unit area was evenly distributed. However, specimens with an uneven bentonite distribution (typically those with a low mass per unit area) can have areas of little to no bentonite content, and these specimens experienced much higher shrinkage than other specimens. A high degree of variability between specimens for apparently similar test conditions was observed. Even more noteworthy is the fact that the maximum shrinkage observed in these tests (14.4%) was well below the maximum of 23% observed by previous investigators using the same methodology and nominally the same product. This shows the difference that can occur between different rolls of nominally the same product.
A System Dynamics Model for Improving Primary Education Enrollment in a Developing Country
Authors: Pedamallu Chandra , Ozdamar Linet , Ganesh L , Weber Gerhard-Wilhelm , Kropat Erik
Published: June 2010

A System Dynamics Model for Improving Primary Education Enrollment in a Developing Country

The system dynamics approach is a holistic way of solving problems in real-time scenarios. This is a powerful methodology and computer simulation modeling technique for framing, analyzing, and discussing complex issues and problems. System dynamics modeling is often the background of a systemic thinking approach and has become a management and organizational development paradigm. This paper proposes a system dynamics approach for studying the importance of infrastructure facilities on the quality of primary education system in a developing nation. The model is built using the Cross Impact Analysis (CIA) method of relating entities and attributes relevant to the primary education system in any given community. The CIA model enables us to predict the effects of infrastructural facilities on the community's access of primary education. This may support policy makers to take more effective actions in campaigns that attempt to improve literacy.
Evaluation of Organic Amendments against Rice Root-KnotNematode at Seedling Stage of Rice
Authors: Dangal Nabin Kumar , Poudyal D. Sharma , Shrestha S. M. , Adhikari C. , Duxbury J. M. , Lauren J. G.
Published: June 2010

Pot experiment was conducted during July-September 2006 to evaluate some organic amendments such as sesame (Sesamum indicum) biomass, buckwheat (Fagopyrum esculentum) biomass, neem (Azadirachta indica) leaves, chinaberry (Melia azedarch) leaves and chicken manure @ 1, 2 and 3 t ha-1 each against the rice root-knot nematode (Meloidogyne graminicola Golden & Birchfield) in direct seeded rice. The treatments were replicated five times in a randomized complete block design. The number of second stage juveniles (J2) of M. graminicola was significantly low in chicken manure @ 3 t ha-1. The root knot severity index was significantly low in sesame @ 3 t ha-1, chinaberry @ 3, 2 or 1 t ha-1, neem @ 3 t ha-1 and chicken manure @ 2 or 3 t ha-1 amended soil but root lesion severity index was lower only in chicken manure @ 2 t ha-1 treated plots. The fresh shoot weight and length were significantly high in chicken manure amendment @ 2 or 3 t ha-1 at 45th day after seeding. However, the fresh root weight, length, number of leaves and number of J2 recovered from the roots were non-significant. Key words: biomass; juveniles; Meloidogyne graminicola; root-knot severity index; root lesion severity index DOI: 10.3126/njst.v9i0.3160 Nepal Journal of Science and Technology 9 (2008) 21-27
Certain Results on Hypergeometric Series for Meijer’s G-Functions
Authors: Sharma Basanta Raj
Published: June 2010

This paper has deal with certain aspects in the development of hypergeometric series, which are the most significant topics of special function. Moreover, making use of the known results, Meijer's G-functions of hypergeometric type have also been generalized by increasing the number of variables in terms of double Barnes' type of contour integrals. Key words: hypergeometric series, Meijer's G-function, q-series, the pFq-series, when p>q+1, Mellin-Barnes' type, double summation DOI: 10.3126/njst.v9i0.3186 Nepal Journal of Science and Technology 9 (2008) 187-193
A biomechanical study of the instrumented and adjacent lumbar levels after In-Space interspinous spacer insertion
Authors: Park Seoung Woo , Lim T. Jesse , Park Jon
Published: June 2010

Object

Interspinous process implants are becoming more common for the treatment of lumber disc degeneration. The authors undertook this study to evaluate the effect of the In-Space interspinous spacer on the biomechanics of the lumbosacral spine.

Methods

Seven L2–S1 cadaver spines were physiologically loaded in extension, flexion, lateral bending, and axial rotation modes. The range of motion (ROM) and intervertebral disc pressure (DP) at the level implanted with an In-Space device and at adjacent levels were measured under 4 experimental conditions. Biomechanical testing was carried out on 7 sequentially prepared specimens in the following states: 1) the intact L2–S1 cadaver spine and 2) the L2–S1 cadaver specimen implanted with an In-Space interspinous spacer at L3–4 (Group 1), 3) after an additional L3–4 discectomy (with the In-Space interspinous spacer still in place) (Group 2), and finally, 4) after removal of the In-Space interspinous spacer, leaving only the discectomized (that is, destabilized) spine model (Group 3).

Results

The extension ROM at the implanted level after experimental conditions 2 and 3 above was statistically significantly reduced. An increase of ROM at the adjacent levels compensated for the reduction at the implanted level. However, there was no statistically significant change in ROM in any of the other modes of motion at any of the levels studied. Likewise, the DP reduction at L3–4 during extension was statistically significant, but in all other modes of motion, there was no statistically significant change in DP at any measured level. The In-Space interspinous spacer statistically significantly reduced the ROM of the L3–4 motion segment in Groups 1 and 2 (extension: 67%, p = 0.018 and 70%, p = 0.018; flexion: 72%, p = 0.028 and 80%, p = 0.027). After placement of the In-Space interspinous spacer, the DP was decreased at L3–4 in extension for Groups 1 and 2 in the posterior anular region (63%, p = 0.028; 59%, p = 0.043), Group 2 in the center region (73%, p = 0.028), and Groups 1 and 2 in the anterior anular region (57%, p = 0.018; 60%, p = 0.018).

Conclusions

The In-Space interspinous spacer both stabilizes the spine and reduces the intervertebral DP at the instrumented level during extension. The biomechanics for other modes of motion and at the adjacent levels are not affected statistically significantly, however. The device thus performed as intended. It significantly stabilized the motion segments at the instrumented level, but not at the segment adjacent to the instrumented level.
Anterior bone cement augmentation in anterior lumbar interbody fusion and percutaneous pedicle screw fixation in patients with osteoporosis
Authors: Kim Kyeong Hwan , Lee Sang-Ho , Lee Dong Yeob , Shim Chan Shik , Maeng Dae Hyeon
Published: June 2010

Object

The purpose of the present study was to evaluate the efficacy of anterior polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA) cement augmentation in instrumented anterior lumbar interbody fusion (ALIF) for patients with osteoporosis.

Methods

Sixty-two patients with osteoporosis who had undergone single-level instrumented ALIF for spondylolisthesis and were followed for more than 2 years were included in the study. The patients were divided into 2 groups: instrumented ALIF alone (Group I) and instrumented ALIF with anterior PMMA augmentation (Group II). Sixty-one patients were interviewed to evaluate the clinical results, and plain radiographs and 3D CT scans were obtained at the last follow-up in 46 patients.

Results

The mean degree of cage subsidence was significantly higher in Group I (19.6%) than in Group II (5.2%) (p = 0.001). The mean decrease of vertebral body height at the index level was also significantly higher in Group I (10.7%) than in Group II (3.9%) (p = 0.001). No significant intergroup differences were observed in the incidence of radiographic adjacent-segment degeneration (ASD) or in terms of pain and functional improvement. The incidences of clinical ASD (23% in Group I and 10% in Group II) were not significantly different. There was 1 case of nonunion and 3 cases of screw migration in Group I, but none resulted in implant failure.

Conclusions

Anterior PMMA augmentation during instrumented ALIF in patients with osteoporosis was useful to prevent cage subsidence and vertebral body collapse. In addition, PMMA augmentation did not increase the nonunion rate and incidence of ASD.
Different Serotonergic Expression in Nevomelanocytic Tumors
Authors: Naimi-Akbar Clara , Ritter Markus , Demel Sasika , El-Nour Husameldin , Hedblad Mari-Anne , Azmitia Efrain C. , Nordlind Klas
Published: June 2010

The neuromediator serotonin (5-hydroxytryptamine; 5-HT) has been proposed to play a role in tumor progression. Thus, the aim of the present investigation was to determine whether alterations in the serotonergic system occur in nevomelanocytic tumors. For this purpose, paraffin-embedded biopsies of superficial spreading malignant melanoma (SSM), dysplastic compound nevi (DN) and benign compound nevi (BCN) were characterized with regard to their expression of 5-HT, the 5-HT1A and 5-HT2A receptors, and the serotonin transporter protein (SERT), by immunohistochemical analysis. Melanocytes in the region surrounding the tumor were found to express both the 5-HT1A and 5-HT2A receptors. Tumor cells that immunostained positively for the different serotonergic markers were observed in the suprabasal epidermis of DN tissue and, to an even greater extent, in the case of SSM. Furthermore, some of these latter cells expressed both 5-HT1AR and 5-HT2AR. The level of expression of 5-HT1AR at the junctional area was lower for SSM than for DN or BCN. As the degree of atypia increased, the intensity of tumor cell staining in the dermis for 5-HT1AR and SERT declined. Vessel immunoreactivity for 5-HT2A was more intense in SSM than in BCN tissue. Round-to-dendritic cells that expressed both SERT and 5-HT1AR were seen to infiltrate into the dermal region of the tumor, this infiltration being more evident in the case of DN and SSM. These latter cells were also tryptase-positive, indicating that they are mast cells. Thus, alterations in serotonergic system may be involved in nevomelanocytic tumors and mast cells may play an important role in this connection.
Prevalence of Psychotic Symptoms and Their Risk Factors in Urban Tanzania
Authors: Jenkins Rachel , Mbatia Joseph , Singleton Nicola , White Bethany
Published: June 2010

This study aimed to determine the prevalence of psychotic symptoms in urban Tanzania and their relationship with demographic, socio-economic and social factors. A random sample of 899 adults aged 15–59 was surveyed. The main outcome measure was endorsement of one or more psychotic symptoms identified by the Psychosis Screening Questionnaire. 3.9% respondents reported one or more psychotic symptoms in the preceding year. Significantly higher rates of symptoms were found in those who had recently experienced two or more stressful life events, those with CMD and people who had used cannabis in the preceding year.
Synthesis of a New Series of N,N’-Dimethyltetrahydrosalen (H2 [H2Me]salen) Ligands by the Reductive Ring-Opening of 3,3'-Ethylene-bis(3,4-dihydro-6-substituted-2H-1,3-benzoxazines)
Authors: Rivera Augusto , Rojas Jicli José , Salazar-Barrios Jairo , Maldonado Mauricio , Ríos-Motta Jaime
Published: June 2010

A new series of N,N'-bis(2'-hydroxy-5'-substituted-benzyl)-N,N´-dimethylethane-1,2-diamines (N,N'-dimethyltetrahydrosalen) ligands were prepared in good yield by reduction of the respective 3,3'-ethylene-bis(3,4-dihydro-6-substituted-2H-1,3-benzoxazine) precursors with sodium borohydride . The ligands were characterized by IR, NMR, and elemental analysis, which showed the compounds to be consistent with the proposed structures. Ring-opening reactions of bis-1,3-benzoxazines in the presence of sodium borohydride to produce N,N’-dimethylated tetrahydrosalens (H2 [H2Me]salen) have not been reported in the literature.
Use of p38 MAPK Inhibitors for the Treatment of Werner Syndrome
Authors: Bagley Mark C. , Davis Terence , Murziani Paola G. S. , Widdowson Caroline S. , Kipling David
Published: June 2010

Werner syndrome provides a convincing model for aspects of the normal ageing phenotype and may provide a suitable model for therapeutic interventions designed to combat the ageing process. Cultured primary fibroblast cells from Werner syndrome patients provide a powerful model system to study the link between replicative senescence in vitro and in vivo pathophysiology. Genome instability, together with an increased pro-oxidant state, and frequent replication fork stalling, all provide plausible triggers for intracellular stress in Werner syndrome cells, and implicates p38 MAPK signaling in their shortened replicative lifespan. A number of different p38 MAPK inhibitor chemotypes have been prepared rapidly and efficiently using microwave heating techniques for biological study in Werner syndrome cells, including SB203580, VX-745, RO3201195, UR-13756 and BIRB 796, and their selectivity and potency evaluated in this cellular context. Werner syndrome fibroblasts treated with a p38 MAPK inhibitor reveal an unexpected reversal of the accelerated ageing phenotype. Thus the study of p38 inhibition and its effect upon Werner pathophysiology is likely to provide new revelations into the biological mechanisms operating in cellular senescence and human ageing in the future.
The Role of PAS Kinase in PASsing the Glucose Signal
Authors: Grose Julianne H. , Rutter Jared
Published: June 2010

PAS kinase is an evolutionarily conserved nutrient responsive protein kinase that regulates glucose homeostasis. Mammalian PAS kinase is activated by glucose in pancreatic beta cells, and knockout mice are protected from obesity, liver triglyceride accumulation, and insulin resistance when fed a high-fat diet. Yeast PAS kinase is regulated by both carbon source and cell integrity stress and stimulates the partitioning of glucose toward structural carbohydrate biosynthesis. In our current model for PAS kinase regulation, a small molecule metabolite binds the sensory PAS domain and activates the enzyme. Although bona fide PAS kinase substrates are scarce, in vitro substrate searches provide putative targets for exploration.
Resistance of Microorganisms to Extreme Environmental Conditions and Its Contribution to Astrobiology
Authors: Rampelotto Pabulo  Henrique
Published: June 2010

In the last decades, substantial changes have occurred regarding what scientists consider the limits of habitable environmental conditions. For every extreme environmental condition investigated, a variety of microorganisms have shown that not only can they tolerate these conditions, but that they also often require these extreme conditions for survival. Microbes can return to life even after hundreds of millions of years. Furthermore, a variety of studies demonstrate that microorganisms can survive under extreme conditions, such as ultracentrifugation, hypervelocity, shock pressure, high temperature variations, vacuums, and different ultraviolet and ionizing radiation intensities, which simulate the conditions that microbes could experience during the ejection from one planet, the journey through space, as well as the impact in another planet. With these discoveries, our knowledge about the biosphere has grown and the putative boundaries of life have expanded. The present work examines the recent discoveries and the principal advances concerning the resistance of microorganisms to extreme environmental conditions, and analyzes its contributions to the development of the main themes of astrobiology: the origins of life, the search for extraterrestrial life, and the dispersion of life in the Universe.
Fluctuating Asymmetry in Flies, What Does It Mean?
Authors: McLachlan Athol J.
Published: June 2010

The degree of departure from perfect symmetry in organisms, fluctuating asymmetry (FA), is seen in most populations of animals. It has particular impact on choice of mate which lies within the world of sexual selection. Here I consider a relatively little studied aspect of sexual selection, i.e. the effect of FA on contests between males for mates, based not on display ornament but rather on agility seen in the mating systems of many insects. The model organism considered is the ubiquitous chironomid midge. In these flies, mating takes place in the air, so symmetry in the length of wings bears directly on a male’s aerobatic ability on which successful mating depends. The role of parasites and predators in creating and responding to FA in the host/prey midge is considered.
Cell-to-Cell Spread of Retroviruses
Authors: Sattentau Quentin J.
Published: June 2010

Viruses from several families use direct cell-to-cell infection to disseminate between cells. Retroviruses are a relatively recent addition to this list, and appear to spread cell-to-cell by induction of multimolecular complexes termed virological synapses that assemble at the interface between infected and receptor-expressing target cells. Over the past five years, detailed insight into the cellular and molecular basis of virological synapse-mediated retroviral cell-to-cell spread has been obtained, but important questions and controversies have been raised that remain to be resolved. This review will focus on recent advances in the field with emphasis on areas in which work still needs to be done.
Segmented Poincaré Plot Analysis for Risk Stratification in Patients with Dilated Cardiomyopathy
Authors: Fischer C. , Schroeder R. , Figulla H. R. , Goernig M. , Voss A.
Published: June 2010

Background: The prognostic value of heart rate variability in patients with dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM) is limited and does not contribute to risk stratification although the dynamics of ventricular repolarization differs considerably between DCM patients and healthy subjects. Neither linear nor nonlinear methods of heart rate variability analysis could discriminate between patients at high and low risk for sudden cardiac death.

Objective: The aim of this study was to analyze the suitability of the new developed segmented Poincaré plot analysis (SPPA) to enhance risk stratification in DCM.

Methods: In contrast to the usual applied Poincaré plot analysis the SPPA retains nonlinear features from investigated beat-to-beat interval time series. Main features of SPPA are the rotation of cloud of points and their succeeded variability depended segmentation.

Results: Significant row and column probabilities were calculated from the segments and led to discrimination (up to p < 0.005) between low and high risk in DCM patients.

Conclusion: For the first time an index from Poincaré plot analysis of heart rate variability was able to contribute to risk stratification in patients suffering from DCM.
Synthesis of spiroannulated and 3-arylated 1,2,4-trioxanes from mesitylol and methyl 4-hydroxytiglate by photooxygenation and peroxyacetalization
Authors: Griesbeck Axel G , Höinck Lars-Oliver , Neudörfl Jörg M
Published: June 2010

Cycloalkanones were utilized in the Lewis acid catalyzed peroxyacetalization of ß-hydroperoxy homoallylic alcohols (prepared by the ene reaction of the allylic alcohols mesitylol and methyl 4-hydroxytiglate, respectively, with singlet oxygen) to give spiroannulated 1,2,4-trioxanes 5a–5e and 9a–9e, respectively. A second series of 3-arylated trioxanes 10a–10h, that are available from the hydroperoxy alcohol 4 and benzaldehyde derivatives, was investigated by X-ray crystallography.
STRUCTURAL SAFETY OF ROLLED AND WELDED BEAMS SUBJECTED TO LATERAL‐TORSIONAL BUCKLING
Authors: Kudzys Antanas , Lukoševičienė Ona , Baltrukėnaitė-Kroškienė Inga
Published: June 2010

The expediency of using probability‐based approaches in the analysis of beams subjected to lateral‐torsional buckling is discussed. The values of buckling resistance moments and their uncertainties for rolled and equivalent welded I sections as particular members of the designed structures are analyzed. The safety margins of buckling steel sections exposed to permanent and variable vertical loads are modeled. The survival probability and reliability index of sections exposed to lateral‐torsional buckling are considered. The prediction of probability‐based safety of rolled and welded beams in buildings and civil engineering works are provided and illustrated by numerical examples. Santrauka Aptariamas tikslingumas naudoti tikimybinius metodus skaičiuojant šoniniu sukimu klupdomas sijas. Analizuojamos val‐cuotuju ir suvirintuju I profiliuočiu, kaip ypačiuju elementu, klupdomuju atspariu momentu vertes ir ju neapibrežtys. Mo‐deliuojama nuolatine ir laikinaja vertikalia apkrova klupdomu plieniniu profiliuočiu ribine sauga. Nagrinejama šoniniu sukimu klupdomu profiliuočiu išlikties tikimybe ir patikimumo indeksas. Pateiktas ir skaitiniu pavyzdžiu iliustruotas pas‐tatu ir inžineriniu statiniu valcuotuju ir suvirintuju siju tikimybines saugos prognozavimas.
Gluteal Abscess: Diagnostic challenges and management
Authors: Puthezhath Kishore , Zacharia Balaji , Mathew Tils P
Published: June 2010

Gluteal abscess is a well-documented presentation of a caries spine and other local bony foci of tuberculosis. Still, during a PUBMED data search, only one report of vertebral tuberculosis presenting only as a gluteal abscess in adults was found in English medical literature. The current article describes a case of tuberculosis of the lumbar spine with gluteal abscess as the only clinical feature, in an immunocompetent young adult.
Using poly-N-acetyl glucosamine gel matrix to deliver IL-12 with anti-schistosomasis vaccination
Authors: Salem Mohamed Labib , Attia Wael Y , Al-Bolkiny Yousry E , Al-Sharkawi Ismail M , Demcheva Marina , Vournakis John
Published: June 2010

Background: Interleukin (IL)-12 is a potential adjuvant in a variety of diseases including schistosomiasis. The clinical use of IL-12, however, is limited by the toxicity associated with its systemic administration. We have developed a novel delivery system (designated F2 gel matrix) composed of poly-N-acetyl glucosamine that has the dual properties of sustaining the release of proteins (e.g. interleukins) and adjuvant effects. The main aim of this study was to use a mouse model to test whether IL-12 released from F2 gel can induce adjuvant effects in the schistosomiasis setting as compared to those obtained after systemic delivery of IL-12. Methodology: First, we compared the toxicity induced by paracrine (delivered by F2 gel) and systemic IL-12. Second, we compared the induction of cytokines induced by paracrine and systemic IL-12. Third, we compared the adjuvant effects of paracrine and systemic IL-12-based prophylactic vaccination against schistosomiasis using soluble worm antigen preparation (SWAP). Results:  IL-12 released from F2 gel did not induce significant toxicity measured by alanine aminotransferase (ALT). We found similar serum levels of IFN-γ, TNF-α and IL-2 after paracrine and systemic IL-12 treatments. We also found that vaccination with F2 gel/SWAP/IL-12 induced higher anti-schistosomal effects than IL-12/SWAP as evidenced by 1) the decrease in the total liver egg counts; 2) the reduction in the granuloma size and fibrotic reaction in the liver; and 3) the amelioration of the liver functions. Conclusion: Collectively, these results indicate that IL-12-F2 gel delivery approach could be considered as a potential strategy for the treatment of schistosomiasis.
Chronic bacterial and parasitic infections and cancer: a review
Authors: Samaras Vassilis , Rafailidis Petros I. , Mourtzoukou Eleni G. , Peppas George , Falagas Matthew E
Published: June 2010

Background: A relatively underestimated facet of infectious diseases is the association of chronic bacterial and parasitic infections with cancer development. Therefore, we sought to evaluate the evidence regarding the association of such infections with the development of malignancy, excluding the overwhelming evidence of the association of Helicobacter pylori and cancer. Methodology: We searched Pubmed, Cochrane, and Scopus without time limits for relevant articles. Results: There is evidence that some bacterial and parasitic infections are associated with cancer development. The level of evidence of this association varies from high to low; in any case, a long time interval is mandatory for the development of cancer. A high level of evidence exists for the association of Salmonella Typhi with gallbladder and hepatobiliary carcinoma; Opisthorchis viverrini and Clonorchis sinensis with cholangiocarcinoma; Schistosoma hematobium with bladder cancer; chronic osteomyelitis with squamous cell carcinoma of the skin; and hidradenitis suppurativa with squamous cell carcinoma of the skin. In contrast, the level of evidence regarding the association of Chlamydia spp. with cancer is low. Mycobacterium tuberculosis is associated with lung cancer, albeit probably not etiopathogenetically. Conclusions: A considerable number of bacterial infections and parasitic infections are associated with the development of cancer. Further research into recognizing additional associations of bacterial and parasitic infections with cancer is mandatory.
« Dis-lui qu'elle enlève la peur »
Authors: Neau Françoise
Published: June 2010

Résumé L’auteur témoigne d’un travail effectué auprès d’enfants arméniens dans l’hiver 1990-1991, dans le cadre d’une mission d’aide psychologique, deux ans après le violent tremblement de terre qui ravagea le nord de l’Arménie en décembre 1988. Menés dans un cadre et un contexte bien spécifiques, ces entretiens thérapeutiques l’amènent à s’interroger après-coup sur les possibilités de mobilisation psychique de ces enfants deux ans après la catastrophe, qui les a tous endeuillés lourdement et parfois mutilés. Pour certains, les éprouvés de peur, l’activité onirique ou fantasmatique témoignent qu’ils s’engagent dans le traitement de la douleur de la perte, facilité par l’adresse transférentielle ; pour d’autres, l’accès à cette douleur psychique paraît encore entravé par la commotion psychique qui inhibe ou excède les capacités de traitement. L’article examine pour conclure le rôle de l’empathie, peu apte à transformer la douleur, à la différence du transfert.
Des imaginaires en controverse dans la pratique de la capoeira : loisir, « métier » et patrimoine culturel immatériel
Authors: Aceti Monica
Published: June 2010

Résumé L’expansion de la capoeira en Europe est un phénomène récent dont l’ampleur révèle les enjeux d’un cosmopolitisme à l’œuvre (Beck, 2006 ; Tarrius, 2000). Si la plupart des pratiquants européens adoptent ce loisir comme un objet de consommation de masse parmi d’autres, certains s’investissent dans l’activité. D’une pratique ludique et festive, l’adepte se tourne vers le « cursus professionnel ». Les savoirs traditionnels se conjuguent aux compétences de management d’une « académie de capoeira » dans un marché en expansion. La transition entre les mondes antagoniques du loisir et du professionnalisme suscite des modifications parmi les représentations corporelles de ses adeptes. Quels sont les imaginaires auxquels se réfèrent les pratiquants de capoeira-loisir  ? Dans quelle mesure la réalité professionnelle interfère-t-elle sur leurs conceptions ? Cette étude s’appliquera finalement à démontrer que le maintien, voire la fructification des imaginaires qui entourent la capoeira (authenticité, tradition, Brésil de la fête et de la convivialité, symboles de libération, de revendication identitaire, etc.) est un facteur de légitimation et de viabilité des professionnels en Europe.
Guarantee Analysis on Ecological Basic Flow in Baoji Reach, Weihe River
Authors: Lin Qi Cai , Li Huai En
Published: June 2010

The major problems of the Weihe River include shortage of water resources, serious water pollution and loss of water and soil. The ecological basic flow of Baoji Section, Weihe River was 10m3/s. Based on it, quantitative analysis on the ecological basic flow of this section has been done. It shows that the effect of Baojixia Irrigation water diversion on the Weihe River is the main influence factor. The guarantee measures are rational use of water resources and water saving, management and policies, and water transfer projects.
Molecular Weight Distribution and Removal Characteristics in Source Water of Ganjiang River
Authors: Tong Zhen Gong , Kang Cai Xia
Published: June 2010

Raw water in the Nanchang district of Ganjiang River and water after conventional treatment were estimated by the method of the ultra filtration to find out its molecular weight distribution. According to the result, the molecular weight distribution of the raw water in Ganjiang River shows the trend which has the large edges and small middle part, that is to say; the organic matter mainly centralizes in a scope whose molecular weight are larger than 30ku and less than 1ku, the middle part occupies a relatively small proportion. In winter low-water season, there is little organic matter in the river and the small molecular of the organic matter plays a dominant role. In the season of high-water, the amount of organic matter increases, and while the small molecular of organic matter decreases and large molecular of organic matter becomes a large part. The popular water purifying process in Nan Chang city is just to mainly remove the large molecular in the organic matter, which leads to a bad result，the low efficiency of removing the small molecular.
Synthesis of Nanostructural Silica Using Quaternary Ammonium Salt of Lignin as Template
Authors: Yu Fang Dan , Guo Yuan Ru , Fang Gui Zhen , Liu Zhi Ming
Published: June 2010

Cationic surfactant, quaternary ammonium salt of lignin, was synthesis from the lignin and trimethylamine though Mannich Reaction. Then quaternary ammonium salt of lignin was used as a novel template to prepare nanostructural silica from TEOS by sol-gel templating method. After removing the template at 580°C, nanostructural silica were obtained. The results of SEM and TEM show that there were two kinds of the silica after calcined. One is 3-dimetional macroporous silica, with the pore size of 100-200 nm. The other kind of silica is nanoparticle: the particle sizes range from 20 to 200nm and the specific surface area is 387.6 m2•g-1.
Lactic Acid Production from Distiller’s Grain by Mixed Ccultures of Lactobacillus casei and Streptococcus thermophilus
Authors: Zou Hui , Wang Qun Hui , Liu Ying Ying , Li Hui
Published: June 2010

Lactic acid production using Lactobacillus casei and Streptococcus thermophilus individually or as mixed culture on distiller’s grain in open fermentation conditions was evaluated. Lactic acid production and residual sugar were the main features examined. Increased lactic acid production was observed, when mixed cultures were used in comparison to individual ones. This revealed possible synergistic effects between the two lactic acid bacteria.
Trace Metal Enhanced Dyeingwastewater Decolorizing by Corynebacterium Variabile
Authors: Wu Zan Min , Dong Fang
Published: June 2010

Biodegradation of azo dyes usually started in anaerobic conditions with a reductive cleavage of the azo bond. Some reductive processes take place also in presence of molecular oxygen, a one-step azo dye degrading process had been investigated. A microbial consortium able to degrade Acid red B in aerobic and microaerophilic conditions had been selected. The optimal decolorization rate of Acid red B had been completely degraded under the condition of shaking for 14h and resting for 22h. Different concentrations of trace metal had been studied to determine the best condition for biodegradation after 36h inoculation. With the optimal concentration of ten trace metals, the Acid red B decolorizing efficiency was increased by Corynebacterium variabile.
Coordinate Developing of Economy and Ecology Protection in Songnen Plain Reservoir
Authors: Gao Yu Juan , Xi Jing
Published: June 2010

Chose Nanyin Reservoir as the study object which located in southwestern Songnen Plain. The paper studied relationship of the ecological environment and economic development between the co-ordinations. Based on sustainable development and ecological economics theory, the paper combined Songnen Plain Reservoir the actual situation and promoted sustainable development strategies and operational measures.
The Chemical Properties of Water in Pinus koraiensis Plantation at Mountainous Region in Heilongjiang Province
Authors: Xin Ying , Zhao Yu Sen , Zeng Fan Suo
Published: June 2010

In this paper, the Pinus koraiensis plantation at mountainous region in Heilongjiang Province is the research object. Four different types of water in Pinus koraiensis plantation including rainfall, throughfall, stemflow and runoff are respectively selected to study the influence of Pinus koraiensis plantation on the water quality from May to November of 2004. The indicator included pH, Do, TURB, TDS, COND, ORP, K, Na, Ca, Mg, Cu, Zn, Mn and Fe. The results show that the chemical properties of rainfall have been changed after it passing through forest canopy. The value of pH, Do and ORP in throughfall are lower than those of rainfall, the value of TURB and TDS increase obviously, 3.2 and 6.4 times higher than the rainfall. The concentrations of Na, Ca and Zn in the throughfall are lower than those in the rainfall but other metal elements show higher concentrations. The value of pH and Do in stemflow are lower than other water. The element contents in stemflow increase greatly except Cu. The values of pH, TURB, TDS and COND in the runoff are higher than those in stemflow, throughfall and rainfall. The variance of pH and Do don’t change significantly, and the variance coefficients of pH and Do are lower in rainfall, throughfall, stemflow and runoff. The value of TURB, TDS and COND vary remarkably, and the variance coefficients of which are higher. The leaching coefficient of throughfall is in the following order: K>Mg>Mn>Fe>Cu>Na>Zn>Ca. The leaching coefficient of stemflow is in the order of Fe>Mn>Mg>K>Na>Ca>Cu>Zn. After atmospheric precipitation passing through the Pinus koraiensis plantation, the value of pH in the throughfall, stemflow and runoff increase gradually closer to neutral, which shows that the Pinus koraiensis plantation have good buffer function to the acidification of the water.
Production of High Performance Haydite from Sewage Sludge
Authors: Zhang Zhen Wen , Liu Jun Zhe , He Zhi Min , Zhou Hai Hua
Published: June 2010

Using sewage sludge to manufacture green high performance haydite was investigated. Sewage sludge was blended with fly ash and river silt, made into raw haydite pellets and sintered. The haydite properties of different mix proportions and sinter parameters were studied. Then microstructure analysis and toxicity characteristic leaching procedure (TCLP) were performed. Results show that reducing sludge percentage of raw pellets decreases water absorption, also makes particle strength and apparent density raise. Increasing preheat temperature enhances particle strength and density while reduces water absorption. Sintered with optimum parameters, density grade of sludge haydite is 700, water absorption is 0.6%, and cylinder compressive strength is 6.6MPa. Microstructure analysis shows enamel surface and internal fine porous structure make haydite lightweight, high strength and low water absorption. And TCLP results show traces of heavy metal content are found in sludge haydite.