bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Analysis of Thermal Energy Storage for a Pharmaceutical CompanyAnalyse eines thermischen Energiespeichers für ein pharmazeutisches Unternehmen
Authors: Henze Gregor , Biffar Bernd , Wienecke Marcus , Becker Martin P.
Published: August 2009

A pharmaceutical facility located in Southern Germany is experiencing a trend of growing cooling loads to be met by the chilled water plant composed of ten chillers of greatly varying cost effectiveness. With a capacity shortfall inevitable, the question arises whether to install an additional chiller or improve the utilization of the existing chillers, in particular those with low operating costs per unit cooling, through the addition of a chilled water thermal energy storage (TES) system. To provide decision support in this matter, an optimization environment was developed and validated that adopts mixed integer programming as the approach to optimizing the chiller dispatch for any load condition, while an overarching dynamic programming based optimization approach optimizes the charge/discharge strategy of the TES system. In this fashion, the chilled water plant optimization is decoupled but embedded in the TES control optimization. The approach was selected to allow for arbitrary constraints and optimization horizons, while ensuring a global optimum to the problem. The results show that a relatively small TES tank provides significant economic and operational benefits. Yet, in order to facilitate long-term supply security, a larger TES tank capacity was decided on and the TES system was constructed in 2008.
Analysis of LC-MS Data Using probabilitic-based mixture regression modelsAnalyse von LC-MS-Daten mit wahrscheinlichkeitsbasierter Mischung von Regressionsmodellen
Authors: Ressom Habtom W. , Befekadu Getachew K. , Tadesse Mahlet G.
Published: August 2009

A novel framework of a probabilistic-based mixture regression model (PMRM) is presented for alignment of multiple liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (LC-MS) data with respect to retention time (RT) and mass-to-charge ratio (m/z). The expectation maximization algorithm is used to estimate the joint parameters of spline-based mixture regression models and prior transformation density models. The applicability of PMRM for alignment of LC-MS data is illustrated through three datasets. The performance of our method is compared with other approaches including dynamic time warping, correlation optimized warping, and continuous profile model in terms of coefficient variation of replicate LC-MS data and accuracy in detecting differentially abundant peptides/proteins.
Body fat and insulin resistance independently predict increased serum C-reactive protein in hyperandrogenic women with polycystic ovary syndrome
Authors: Tosi Flavia , Dorizzi Romolo , Castello Roberto , Maffeis Claudio , Spiazzi Giovanna , Zoppini Giacomo , Muggeo Michele , Moghetti Paolo
Published: August 2009

Objective

Increased serum C-reactive protein (CRP), an independent predictor of coronary heart disease, was reported in women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). It remains unclear whether this finding is due to the association between PCOS and either insulin resistance, obesity, or androgen excess, which are all common features of this condition. The aims of this study were to assess whether increased serum CRP is a specific feature of PCOS and to investigate the mechanisms underlying this association.

Design and methods

Serum high-sensitivity CRP (hs-CRP) was measured in 86 hyperandrogenic women (age 21.6±4.2 years, body mass index (BMI) 23.6±3.5 kg/m2), 50 with PCOS and 36 with idiopathic hyperandrogenism (HA). Thirty-five BMI-matched healthy women were also studied as controls. In these subjects, endocrine and metabolic profiles were assessed. In all hyperandrogenic subjects and 14 controls, insulin sensitivity was measured by the glucose clamp technique. Body fat was measured by bioelectrical impedance.

Results

Hs-CRP concentrations were higher in PCOS women (3.43±2.01 mg/l) than in HA subjects and healthy women (2.43±1.04, P<0.005; and 2.75±0.86 mg/l, P<0.05 respectively versus PCOS). In multiple regression analyses, increased serum hs-CRP was independently predicted by higher body fat and lower insulin sensitivity. However, in lean women, serum-free testosterone was an additional, negative, predictive variable.

Conclusions

PCOS is accompanied by a low-grade chronic inflammation. Body fat appears the main determining factor of this finding, which is only partly explained by insulin resistance. At least in lean women, androgen excess per se seems to play an additional, possibly protective, role in this association.
Homozygosity for a single base-pair mutation in the oocyte-specific GDF9 gene results in sterility in Thoka sheep
Authors: Nicol Linda , Bishop Stephen C , Pong-Wong Ricardo , Bendixen Christian , Holm Lars-Erik , Rhind Stewart M , McNeilly Alan S
Published: August 2009

The control of fecundity is critical in determining mammalian offspring survival. It is regulated principally by the ovulation rate, so that primates and large farm species commonly have a single offspring. Previously, several mutations have been identified in sheep which increase the naturally low ovulation rate; although in some cases homozygous ewes are infertile. In the present study we present a detailed characterization of a novel mutation in growth differentiation factor 9 (GDF9), found in Icelandic Thoka sheep. This mutation is a single base change (A1279C) resulting in a nonconservative amino acid change (S109R) in the C-terminus of the mature GDF9 protein, which is normally expressed in oocytes at all stages of development. Genotyping all animals for which reproductive records were available confirmed this mutation to be associated with increased fecundity in heterozygous ewes and infertility in homozygotes. Analysis of homozygote ovarian morphology and a number of genes normally activated in growing follicles showed that GDF9 was not involved in oocyte activation, but in subsequent development of the follicle. This study highlights the importance of oocyte factors in regulating fertility and provides new information for structural analysis and investigation of the potentially important sites of dimerization or translational modifications required to produce biologically active GDF9. It also provides the basis for the utilization of these animals to enhance sheep production.
Estrogen metabolism by the equine embryo proper during the fourth week of pregnancy
Authors: Raeside James I , Christie Heather L , Waelchli Rudolf O , Betteridge Keith J
Published: August 2009

Estrogen production by the trophoblast is considered important in early equine pregnancy and leads to high concentrations in yolk-sac (Y-S) fluid. The embryo proper is a potential site for their action. We examined estrogen metabolism in the embryo proper because some actions of estrogens are derived from locally formed metabolites. The embryo proper, as well as separated extraembryonic tissues, of conceptuses collected about day 25 of pregnancy, were incubated with 3[H]-estrone (E1) and 3[H]-estradiol (E2). Steroids were recovered from media by solid-phase extraction and eluted separately as unconjugated and conjugated fractions. Profiles of free and sulfo-conjugated fractions were obtained by HPLC. Some differences and similarities were noted for the embryo proper as compared to the extraembryonic tissues. No reduction of E1 to E2 was noted for the embryo proper and allantois, but some was seen with the bilaminar Y-S wall. Less conversion of E2 to E1 occurred in the embryo proper than in the extraembryonic tissues. Profiles for hydrolyzed sulfates from incubation of the embryo proper were very similar for both substrates, mainly with E1 present. Thus, low levels of reductase and high levels of oxido- activities were apparent for the 17β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase enzymes. Further evidence of an active role for the embryo proper was seen as minor, polar products, and an unknown compound eluting between E2 and E1. These findings show, for the first time, that the embryo proper can metabolize estrogens that are found in Y-S fluid – a function of potential significance at this stage in its development.
B-1 cell: the precursor of a novel mononuclear phagocyte with immuno-regulatory properties
Authors: Lopes José Daniel , Mariano Mario
Published: August 2009

Characterization of the origin, properties, functions and fate of cells is a fundamental task for the understanding of physiological and pathological phenomena. Despite the bulk of knowledge concerning the diverse characteristics of mammalian cells, some of them, such as B-1 cells, are still poorly understood. Here we report the results obtained in our laboratory on these cells in the last 10 years. After showing that B-1 cells could be cultured and amplified in vitro, a series of experiments were performed with these cells. They showed that B1 cells reside mostly in the peritoneal and pleural cavities, migrate to distant inflammatory foci, coalesce to form giant cells and participate in granuloma formation, both in vitro and in vivo. They are also able to present antigens to immunologically responsive cells and are endowed with regulatory properties. Further, we have also shown that these cells facilitate different types of infection as well as tumor growth and spreading. These data are presently reviewed pointing to a pivotal role that these cells may play in innate and acquired immunity.
Effects of aquatic exercises in a rat model of brainstem demyelination with ethidium bromide on the beam walking test
Authors: Nassar Cíntia Cristina Souza , Bondan Eduardo Fernandes , Alouche Sandra Regina
Published: August 2009

Multiple sclerosis is a demyelinating disease of the central nervous system associated with varied levels of disability. The impact of early physiotherapeutic interventions in the disease progression is unknown. We used an experimental model of demyelination with the gliotoxic agent ethidium bromide and early aquatic exercises to evaluate the motor performance of the animals. We quantified the number of footsteps and errors during the beam walking test. The demyelinated animals walked fewer steps with a greater number of errors than the control group. The demyelinated animals that performed aquatic exercises presented a better motor performance than those that did not exercise. Therefore aquatic exercising was beneficial to the motor performance of rats in this experimental model of demyelination.
Improvement in hippocampal kindling analysis through computational processing data
Authors: Cordeiro Joacir Graciolli , Capurro Alberto , Aertsen Ad , Cordeiro Karina Kohn , Araújo João Cândido , Schulze-Bonhage Andreas
Published: August 2009

The kindling phenomenon is classically investigated in epileptology research. The present study aims to provide further information about hippocampal kindling through computational processing data. Adult Wistar rats were implanted with dorsal hippocampal and frontal neocortical electrodes to perform the experiment. The processing data was obtained using the Spike2 and Matlab softwares. An inverse relationship between the number of "wet dog shakes" and the Racine's motor stages development was found. Moreover it was observed a significant increase in the afterdischarge (AD) duration and its frequency content. The highest frequencies were, however, only reached at the beginning of behavioral seizures. During the primary AD, fast transients (ripples) were registered in both hippocampi superimposed to slower waves. This experiment highlights the usefulness of computational processing applied to animal models of temporal lobe epilepsy and supports a relevant role of the high frequency discharges in temporal epileptogenesis.
O conhecimento dos estudantes da faculdade de medicina de Marília (Famema) sobre responsabilidade profissional e segredo médico
Authors: Mendonça Ana Cristina , Villar Heloísa Cerqueira C. E. , Tsuji Selma Rumiko
Published: August 2009

INTRODUÇÃO: O CFM INstituiu o Código de Ética Médica (CEM), cuja violação implica sanções, impondo aos profissionais a ele submetidos seu conhecimento e aplicação, por meio de conduta permeada pelos prima facie ducties. Conhecer o assunto torna-se condição básica para sua observação. Daí a importância deste ensino desde os primeiros anos do curso médico, fornecendo ao estudante capacidade de análise ética na prática profissional futura. OBJETIVOS: Avaliar o grau de conhecimento sobre as disposições do CEM relativas a "responsabilidade profissional" e "segredo médico" entre estudantes de Medicina da Famema e verificar se há evolução desse conhecimento durante a graduação. MÉTODO: Estudo realizado em dez meses, com 479 estudantes do primeiro ao sexto ano, regularmente matriculados. Aplicado questionário anônimo, com duas partes: uma com dados sociodemográficos e outra composta por 11 cenários clínicos, envolvendo questões eticamente conflituosas. RESULTADOS: 395 estudantes responderam o questionário (82,46% da amostra inicial). Ao se comparar a média total de acertos entre as turmas nos cenários, encontrou-se o valor de p = 0,7148, sem significância estatística. CONCLUSÕES: Não há diferença estatisticamente significativa no grau de conhecimento sobre ética entre as séries. Sugere-se a introdução efetiva do assunto na graduação do curso médico, com metodologia de ensino adequada.
A ética na história do aconselhamento genético: um desafio à educação médica
Authors: Guedes Cristiano , Diniz Debora
Published: August 2009

O aconselhamento genético é uma prática que surgiu nos Estados Unidos na década de 1940 e tem se difundido ao redor do mundo com a crescente popularização da informação genética e a profissionalização da genética na saúde pública. É por meio de sessões de aconselhamento que as pessoas são informadas sobre os resultados de testes genéticos e recebem orientações sobre probabilidades, riscos e possibilidades de doenças genéticas. Trata-se de uma prática profissional que combina saúde, assistência e educação. Este ensaio descreve o surgimento e o desenvolvimento da prática de aconselhamento genético e apresenta alguns de seus desafios éticos.
Influência da radiação de luz sobre acervos museológicos
Authors: Cassares Norma Ciaflone , Petrella Yara Lígia Mello Moreira
Published: August 2009

O texto analisa a ação e os efeitos da radiação de luz sobre acervo museológico. Considera-se a luz como fator de dano produzindo alterações físicas e químicas sobre a estrutura molecular dos materiais dos objetos, que ocorrem sempre em conjunto com as condições ambientais e não de forma isolada. Aponta critérios técnicos, referências, relativos aos níveis de iluminação e ao tempo de exposição dos objetos.
Comparação da assistência em saúde mental em unidades básicas de saúde com ou sem equipe do Programa de Saúde da Família
Authors: Ribeiro Mário Sérgio , Alves Márcio José Martins , Silva Priscila Matthiesen e , Vieira Eveline Maria de Melo
Published: August 2009

INTRODUÇÃO: O objetivo deste estudo foi comparar o perfil de assistência em saúde mental realizado por unidade básica de saúde (UBS) com equipe de Programa de Saúde da Família (PSF) e sem equipe de PSF. MÉTODO: Estudo observacional, avaliando pacientes encaminhados por UBS da área de abrangência de um serviço especializado de saúde mental no período de abril de 2003 a março de 2006. RESULTADOS: A UBS com equipe de PSF apresentou melhor padrão global de registros de dados, maior responsabilidade exclusiva do médico em suas referências ao nível especializado (p = 0,000), menor capacidade de retenção dos usuários na UBS (p = 0,099), maiores taxas de abandono de tratamento em nível secundário (p = 0,060) e menor percentual de contrarreferência pela equipe especializada (p = 0,028). A taxa de concordância diagnóstica global foi semelhante entre os dois modelos de UBS, com razoável nível de concordância (índice kappa de 44,5 e 43,0%, respectivamente, para UBS com e sem equipe PSF). CONCLUSÃO: A UBS com equipe de PSF não apresentou resultados compatíveis com o que seria de se esperar, em função de sua hipotética melhor qualidade de estrutura.
"... e Deus criou a mulher": reconstruindo o corpo feminino na experiência do câncer de mama
Authors: Aureliano Waleska de Araújo
Published: August 2009

As mulheres atingidas pelo câncer de mama passam, a partir da experiência da enfermidade, a travar novas relações com o corpo modificado pela cirurgia de mama (mastectomia), que provoca profundas alterações corporais. Considerando as representações simbólicas e sociais que envolvem o corpo da mulher e a associação das mamas à feminilidade, à sexualidade e à maternidade, pretendo discutir neste artigo como a ideia do corpo feminino e dos papéis sociais associados a ele foi histórica, social e culturalmente construída em nossa sociedade, como essa representação é percebida e reelaborada pela mulher mastectomizada e quais os discursos e visões (muitas vezes ambíguos) que passam a ser utilizados para a compreensão desse corpo após a experiência da doença. A pesquisa foi realizada com mulheres de dois grupos de ajuda mútua na cidade de Campina Grande, PB.
A bicicleta, o ciclismo e as mulheres na transição dos séculos XIX e XX
Authors: Melo Victor Andrade de , Schetino André
Published: August 2009

Este artigo tem por objetivo discutir as relações entre a nova configuração da presença social das mulheres (e nesse cenário as posições de líderes dos movimentos por direitos civis femininos), a nova dinâmica social marcada pela valorização das atividades públicas de lazer (da qual o ciclismo é um exemplo privilegiado) e um novo invento (a bicicleta) na transição dos séculos XIX e XX. Inicialmente abordaremos os casos específicos da Europa (com destaque para a França) e dos Estados Unidos, buscando recuperar as pioneiras discussões e ocorrências acerca do envolvimento de mulheres com o ciclismo. Posteriormente, discutiremos o caso específico do Rio de Janeiro, a maior cidade e a capital do país à época, cujos dirigentes tinham aspirações de constituí-la na metrópole moderna brasileira.
Processo comunicativo e humanização em saúde
Authors: Deslandes Suely Ferreira , Mitre Rosa Maria de Araujo
Published: August 2009

O artigo aborda o processo comunicacional como um dos desafios enfrentados na humanização em saúde. Reflete sobre potencialidades e requisitos para a produção do agir comunicativo e aponta alguns obstáculos, baseando-se em estudos antropológicos sobre a cultura biomédica. Com base no conceito de entendimento, discute sobre os encontros em saúde e a relevância da validação e do reconhecimento do discurso dos diferentes atores. Aponta para a importância de se relativizarem marcas identitárias associadas à cultura biomédica, desconstruírem-se alguns conceitos, criticarem seus contextos de aplicabilidade e até mesmo se propor novas marcas por meio da humanização. Discute-se a relação entre as tecnologias biomédicas e o processo comunicacional. O desafio colocado é o de aprender, reconhecer e negociar com o outro, que detém direitos, autonomia e estoque cultural peculiares. Finalmente, discute os esforços teóricos para que a humanização das práticas em saúde venha a fazer parte do ethos ou visão do mundo dos profissionais de saúde.
Redescription of the Drywood Termite Incisitermes inamurae (Isoptera: Kalotermitidae) From Southern Taiwan
Authors: Li Hou-Feng , Kanzaki Natsumi , Su Nan-Yao
Published: August 2009

Kalotermes inamurae Oshima 1912 (Isoptera: Kalotermitidae) is reassigned to Incisitermes (Krishna, 1961) based on the winged imago that is described herein for the first time. The two size morphs of the soldier caste are redescribed, as is the distinctly different morphology of the soldier of incipient colonies. The distribution of I. inamurae is restricted to the tropical zone of Taiwan. Another tropical species, Incisitermes mcgregori (Light), from Luzon, Philippines, has similar soldier morphology and may be a junior synonym of I. inamurae. The five Incisitermes species reported in Japan, China, Taiwan, and the Philippines were compared morphologically.
Revision of the Family Helotidae (Coleoptera: Cucujoidea): IV. The Genus Metahelotella
Authors: Lee Chi-Feng
Published: August 2009

The species belonging to the genus Metahelotella Kirejtshuk are revised. Six species are recognized, including two described herein, M. schawalleri sp. nov. from Vietnam and M. sprecherae sp. nov. from China (Shaanxi Province). Helota fulvitarsis Ritsema and H. difficilis Ritsema are placed as junior synonyms of M. semifulva Ritsema. Lectotypes are designated for H. fulvitarsis Ritsema, H. difficilis Ritsema, and H. immaculata Ritsema. A key and diagnosis of the species belonging to the genus Metahelotella Kirejtshuk are provided. Figures of protibiae, genitalia, internal sacs, eighth abdominal tergites, and fifth abdominal ventrites are given for all species.
Effect of Temperature on the Development and Longevity of Pezothrips kellyanus (Thysanoptera: Thripidae)
Authors: Varikou K , Tsitsipis I , Alexandrakis V , Hoddle M
Published: August 2009

The developmental biology and adult longevity of Pezothrips kellyanus (Bagnall) (Thysanoptera: Thripidae) on lemon (Citrus limon L.) leaves was studied at five constant temperatures (15, 20, 25, 30, 32.5, and 357deg;C) under laboratory conditions. Developmental time and adult longevity were inversely related to temperature. The developmental time from egg to adult ranged from 10.1 d at 32.5°C to 40.3 d at 15°C. Adult thrips lived from 5.3 d at 35°C to 45.9 d at 15°C and females tended to live significantly longer than males at these two extreme temperatures. No significant differences were found in developmental times between male and female immature stages of P. kellyanus within each tested temperature regime. The highest larval to adult survival (80.6%) was found at 25°C and the lowest (50%) at 32.5°C. No larvae hatched from eggs incubated at 35°C. Both linear and nonlinear models adequately described the relationship between temperature and developmental rates for immature stages of P. kellyanus. Thus, thrips required 204.5 degree-days to complete development from egg to adult stage, above a minimum threshold of 10.2°C as estimated by linear regression. The temperature thresholds for all immature stages except for pupae of P. kellyanus, estimated by the linear model were similar to values that were estimated by the nonlinear model. The predicted upper lethal temperature was 33.12°C, with a minimum threshold for total development occurring at 10°C, as estimated by nonlinear model. The importance of the results in the management of this species through the prediction of its seasonal appearance and population levels are discussed.
Maternal Age Effects on Embryo Mortality and Juvenile Development of Offspring in the Honey Bee (Hymenoptera: Apidae)
Authors: Al-Lawati H , Bienefeld K
Published: August 2009

To date, no information is available concerning the impact of maternal age on offspring in long-lived social Hymenoptera. We have examined the influence of maternal age on embryo mortality and juvenile growth in offspring in 29 freshly mated (Y0), 29 1-yr-old (Y1), and 18 2-yr-old (Y2) queen honey bees, Apis mellifera L. (Hymenoptera: Apidae). Embryo mortality increased significant with maternal age (Y0 = 9.1%, Y1 = 12.5%, and Y2 = 30.7%). Egg size declined significantly with queen age, did not affect embryo mortality, but did influence embryo size within the egg. (r = 0.54–0.98). Embryo size until hatching, observed under standardized in vitro conditions, was significantly affected by the age of the mother. Maternal age also significantly influenced larval size at an early stage (day 1 ) but not during later larval growth. Compensatory growth and nonrandom sampling attributable to higher mortality, especially in Y2 offspring, may explain the smaller impact of maternal age in the later larval stage. Embryo mortality was extremely high (55.7%) in the offspring of Y2 queens during the experiments on embryo growth, which required a frequent transfer and observation of the embryos outside the incubator. The stronger response of juvenile stages from older mothers to this manipulation indicates that they are likely to be much more sensitive to stress than offspring from younger mothers.
Identification of protein kinases that control ovarian hormone release by selective siRNAs
Authors: Sirotkin Alexander V , Ovcharenko Dmitriy , Mlyncek Milos
Published: August 2009

The goal of this study was to identify protein kinases (PKs) that control the secretory activity of human ovarian cells. Cultured ovarian granulosa cells were transfected with 264 siRNA constructs that selectively block the expression of 88 known PKs. The efficiency of transfection and of silencing marker molecules (glyceraldehyde 3-phosphate dehydrogenase, GAPDH and CDC2/p34 PK) was validated by fluorescence microscopy, real-time reverse transcription-PCR, and immunocytochemistry. Release of steroid hormones (progesterone, P4) and IGF1 was determined by RIA. siRNA suppressed the expression of marker molecules by up to 84%. P4 release was suppressed after inhibiting 34 individual PKs and was stimulated after inhibiting 12 PKs. Blocking nine individual PKs inhibited IGF1 release, while the inactivation of 17 others stimulated IGF1 release. Together, these results demonstrate that the release of both steroid and peptide hormones by human ovarian cells is controlled by a large number of PKs, and that siRNA constructs may be useful tools for further defining the role of PKs in controlling ovarian secretory function.
CLEARWATER TO BLUE FLAG WATER.
Authors: KEMP D J
Published: August 2009

Customer opinion research by Anglian Water has shown that seawater quality at bathing beaches is a high priority. Satisfying this need, as well as meeting legal obligations under the EU bathing water directive, has involved the company in a £266 million investment programme around its coastline. This paper describes the programme, called project Clearwater, and the range of engineering solutions devised. It indicates how attention paid to marine modelling, linked to engineering work on intermittent discharges as well as the continuous discharges, has led to a successful outcome, namely the first UK water company to achieve 100% compliance at its designated bathing waters.
SEA CHANGE- IMPROVING BATHING WATER QUALITY IN THE NORTH WEST.
Authors: RASARATNAM S
Published: August 2009

In response to the EU bathing water directive, North West Water mounted a £500 million-plus initiative along its considerable coastline to help bring bathing waters—including Blackpool, die UK's most popular resort—up to European standards. The operation, known as Sea Change, comprised many and varied waste-water projects, including in the Fylde the world's largest submerged biological contactor treatment plant, and the longest MDFE outfall pipe. This paper describes the challenges faced and the solutions adopted in completing this major engineering programme in time for the 1996 bathing season, with particular reference to the Fylde scheme and the ongoing programme of further investigation and investment.
YORKSHIRE WATER'S COASTCARE.
Authors: LANGLEY P , STRINGER R. , LANG G
Published: August 2009

Coastcare is Yorkshire Water's £120 million coastal waste-water treatment improvement programme. It involves installing modern treatment plants to serve the popular east coast resorts of Scarborough, Filey, Whitby, Bridlington, Hornsea, Staithes, Robin Hood's Bay, Sandsend and Runswick Bay. Developed in close consultation with the local communities, the programme takes account of potential future changes in legislation. It thus moves away from the old solution of long sea outfalls towards inland treatment technologies, including UV disinfection.
DESIGN AND CONSTRUCTION OF THE JUBILEE LINE EXTENSION TUNNELS.
Authors: DAVIES H R
Published: August 2009

The Jubilee Line Extension took the London Underground network for the first time into the difficult waterlogged sands and gravels in the south east of the capital. However, there were very few problems with the now tried-and-tested technology of earth pressure balance tunnelling machines. This paper describes the general specification for the precast concrete, cast iron and sprayed tunnel linings and then highlights some of the many innovations which both designers and contractors introduced on each of the six main tunnelling contracts.
A Story of Emerging and Endemic Neurological Infection in Thailand
Authors: Wiwanitkit Viroj
Published: August 2009

Neurological infection seems to be an important group of infectious disease. This group of disorders has
become an important focus in neurology and general medicine. In Thailand, there are many interesting emerging and
endemic neurological infections. In this specific chapter, the author will present details of some interesting clinical
reports on important emerging and endemic neurological infection in Thailand.
Parasitic Contamination in Water and Soil: A Brief Review
Authors: Wiwanitkit Viroj
Published: August 2009

An important problem at present is the contamination of drinking water. In this paper, the author will
focus on the parasitic contamination in water and further implication on human health. The important parasites that
are usually mentioned as major contaminants will be briefly reviewed. In addition to water contamination, soil
contamination is another important problem. Basically, soil contamination with pathogenic parasite is a big public
health problem in tropical developing countries. Diseases transmitted by soil are common in many tropical areas,
including Thailand. In this article, the author summarized the prevalence of soil contamination with pathogenic
parasite in Thailand. According to analysis, overall prevalence of contamination is equal to 7.8 %. There is no
significant correlation between setting and prevalence.
CHAPTER I: MAIN PRODUCTION TECHNOLOGIES
Authors: B. Drenchev Ludmil , Sobczak Jerzy
Published: August 2009

This chapter deals with the concept of graded material and main
technologies for their production. The technologies for metallic graded
materials are divided into two general groups. A sequence of eighth basic
production methods is discussed in more details.
Advanced Approach To Mitigate Magnetic Fields And Your Health
Authors: MEMARI A.R.
Published: August 2009

This Ebook describes the hazardous effects of magnetic fields and explains how exposure to high voltage transmission line magnetic field could affect human lives. It explains how newly developed methods enable experts to completely mitigate the magnetic field at any point of consideration and also to simultaneously achieve noticeable cancellation of the field at other locations.
Exposure to Electromagnetic Fields
Authors: Memari A.R.
Published: August 2009

This chapter deals with the epidemiological reports, which associates
exposure to magnetic field and the risk of fatal diseases such as brain cancer, leukemia,
breast cancer, depression and miscarriage. In addition to exposure to magnetic field
associated with high voltage transmission lines, possible relationship between health
hazard and exposure to residential magnetic field such as electric blanket, hair dryer,
toaster and many more have also been discussed.

Occupational and non-occupational exposure to magnetic field and how an office
worker’s health may be in danger by sitting near to some office equipment have been
studied.

Finally, a relation between central nervous system cancer and environmental exposure
has been established. This study also establishes a possible relation between modern
equipments and heart attack.
Fundamental of Magnetic Field
Authors: Memari A.R.
Published: August 2009

Electricity has gone through lots of changes since it has been in use. But, the
hazardous effects of high voltage transmission line magnetic field have always been of
deep concern to scientists. In this chapter, a mathematical modeling has been
established, by which a hundred percent mitigation at any point of consideration would
be achievable. The developed equations are also capable of producing simultaneous
reduction of magnetic field at other points within the center of the right-of-way.

First, a procedure to obtain the total magnetic field contributed by the three- phase high
voltage transmission line has been established and then the angular frequency at which
maximum magnetic field occurs is developed.

In order to achieve the mitigation, an auxiliary mitigating loop has been implemented
and the required equation to calculate the mitigating magnetic field is developed. The
optimum value of this loop impedance is set. Since the designed auxiliary mitigating
loop is of passive type, no especial feedback equipments are needed to compensate for
the changes of the load currents.

In order to illuminate the capability of the developed equations a flat configuration of
230 KV transmission line has been utilized.
Fundamental Calculations of Auxiliary Loop Voltage
Authors: Memari A.R.
Published: August 2009

Mitigating magnetic field is caused by the mitigating current in the auxiliary
mitigating loop. This current is achieved by dividing the mitigating loop voltage by the
mitigating loop impedance. The mitigating loop voltage is the result of the flux induced
by each phase of the three phases of the transmission line.

In this chapter, the flux induced by each phase has been thoroughly investigated and the
geometrical location of the auxiliary mitigating loop with respect to the power line has
been scrutinized and the related equations are established. The vector sum of these three
fluxes results in obtaining the total flux penetrating through the mitigating loop and the
corresponding equation is set. Finally, an equation to calculate the mitigating loop
voltage is developed. It is worth mentioning that phases A, B, and C are at 0°, -120° and
+120° respectively.
Calculation of Mitigating Magnetic Field
Authors: Memari A.R.
Published: August 2009

A numerical illustration has been set up to demonstrate the applicability of
the developed equations to calculate the mitigating magnetic field. A point in the space
having a coordinate of (9, 1) has been selected as the point of consideration.

The total flux induced by the three phases of the transmission line is calculated, from
which the mitigating loop voltage is achieved. In order to achieve our attempt of
establishing a hundred percent cancellation of the magnetic field, optimal value of the
loop impedance is determined.

Variation of unmitigated magnetic field over one complete cycle in depicted and
simultaneous variation of unmitigated magnetic field and mitigated magnetic field is
also shown.

The influence of the mitigating magnetic field produced by the loop on the other
locations is also investigated and the results are tabulated. Effect of angular frequency
on producing magnetic field at other location is studied.
Geometrical Positions of Auxiliary Loop
Authors: Memari A.R.
Published: August 2009

Effect of geometrical location of the auxiliary mitigating loop with respect to
the three phases of the transmission line is scrutinized. In this process, the mitigating
loop is first placed above and then below the two outer phases of the power line and a
comparative approach has been established. Positions of maximum and minimum values
of the mitigated magnetic fields with respect to the geometrical location of the loop are
also investigated. A 230 KV flat transmission line has been utilized and effect of
mitigation at the other points has also been studied.

Process of mitigation with respect to the geometrical location of the auxiliary loop and
the correlation between the three types of magnetic fields has also been studied and the
related figures and Tables are depicted.
Bundled-Conductors Magnetic Field Calculations
Authors: Memari A.R.
Published: August 2009

In this chapter, for further illumination of the developed approach to mitigate
magnetic field associated with high voltage transmission line, bundled-conductors
configuration has been scrutinized.

Each sub-conductor is separately analyzed and an equation to calculate the total
unmitigated magnetic field is achieved from which, angular frequency responsible to
generate maximum value of unmitigated magnetic field is set. An approach to calculate
the mitigating loop impedance is also established.

The applicability of the developed method has been illustrated and effect of mitigation
at seven different locations within the right-of-way has been thoroughly investigated.

Process of mitigation and variation of the three types of the magnetic fields with respect
to each other has been studied and the related figures and Tables are depicted.
Auxiliary Loop - Ground Wire
Authors: Memari A.R.
Published: August 2009

Effect of ground wire as an auxiliary mitigating loop has been investigated.
History of Chagas Disease as a Public Health Problem in Latin America
Authors: Carlos Pinto Dias Joao , John Schofield Christopher
Published: August 2009

Beginning as a silvatic enzoosis involving Trypanosoma cruzi and a range of
small mammals and marsupials, human Chagas disease probably emerged as a sparse focal
disease at different points in the Americas well before the Christian period. Subsequently
spread through internal population migrations, the disease would have become more
widespread where the insect vectors became associated with rural settlements. It appears to
have spread most widely during the post-Colombian period, especially from the mid 19th to
mid 20th centuries when the human infection appears to have peaked in incidence and
prevalence. In historical terms, there are sparse indications of probable acute cases, chronic
cardiopathy, and megacolon, but such conditions are difficult to diagnose accurately. In
contrast, megaoesophagus seems a more specific marker of chronic Chagas disease, with a
number of reports of its occurrence in various parts of Brazil, especially since the 18th
century. The main impact of chronic Chagas disease corresponds primarily to the
occurrence of chronic chagasic cardiopathy, and recognition and characterization of this has
been the main stimulus for large-scale control interventions in the endemic countries since
the 1950s.
Endemic Chagas Disease
Authors: Teixeira Antonio , Nascimento Rubens , R Sturm Nancy
Published: August 2009

Infections by Trypanosoma cruzi are transmitted commonly by triatomines,
hematophagous insects adapted to anthropophilic behavior. With its potential enzootic
presence for over 90 million years, Chagas disease in humans has been documented in 9
thousand-year-old mummies from the Atacama Desert. Lately, Chagas disease has shown
exponential growth because European and African colonizers dwelling in huts infested by
triatomines contaminated with T. cruzi were promptly infected. Nowadays, Chagas disease
affects 18 million people and is considered the most lethal endemic infectious disease in the
Western Hemisphere.
The Diabetes Educator's Role in Managing Eating Disorders and Diabetes
Authors: Urbanski Patti , Goebel-Fabbri Ann E. , Powers Maggie , Taylor Dawn
Published: August 2009

In Brief

Registered dietitians and nurses who specialize in diabetes education are often in the position of identifying patients at risk for an eating disorder or those who have an undiagnosed eating disorder. Diabetes educators will find it helpful to establish relationships and communication with eating disorder specialists in their area to prepare a plan for caring for these individuals.
Physical Activity Levels Among Participants in the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation Diabetes Initiative
Authors: Williams-Piehota Pamela A. , McCormack Lauren A. , Bann Carla M. , O'Toole Mary , Burton Joseph , Karns Shawn , Lux Linda , Kamerow Douglas
Published: August 2009

Objective. The purposes of this study were to describe physical activity habits of individuals with type 2 diabetes participating in a self-management initiative conducted in real-world settings that was sponsored by the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation (RWJF); to assess changes in physical activity over time; and to identify factors associated with physical activity levels.

Research design and methods. Clinical and community-based programs participating in the RWJF-funded Diabetes Initiative implemented comprehensive models for self-management, including supports to increase physical activity. A cohort of 622 largely lower-income and ethnic minority program participants (72% female, 85% overweight or obese) completed telephone surveys assessing self-reported physical activity levels at two times that were about 8 months apart.

Results. Approximately 70% of participants who reported being inactive at Time 1 reported at least some physical activity at Time 2. Approximately 29% of participants who reported insufficient activity at Time 1 increased their activity enough to meet current public health guidelines at Time 2, whereas 28% of those who were sufficiently active no longer met the guidelines. Sufficient physical activity was associated with greater intervention intensity; being male, younger, and speaking English; and having greater self-efficacy, a lower BMI, and a health care provider who assisted in finding physical activity resources.

Conclusions. Personal, behavioral, and program factors were related to physical activity levels among participants in these comprehensive self-management programs.
The influence of phenolic compounds injections to the stems of living trees on wood decay caused by fungi
Authors: Zarzyński Paweł
Published: August 2009

Wpływ iniekcji wybranych substancji fenolowych do pni żywych drzew na rozkład drewna powodowany przez grzyby
Use of neonicotinoid insecticides for the protection of pedunculate oak (Quercus robur L.) acorns in the seed orchard in the Leżajsk Forest District
Authors: Bystrowski Cezary , Wójcik Grzegorz
Published: August 2009

Próba użycia insektycydów z grupy neonikotynoidów do ochrony żołędzi na plantacji nasiennej dębu szypułkowego (Quercus robur L.) w Nadleśnictwie Leżajsk
Nature and forest education in the Rudnik Forest District
Authors: Młynarski Wojciech
Published: August 2009

Edukacja przyrodniczo-leśna w Nadleśnictwie Rudnik
Use of a guide wire system to insert guiding catheters
Authors: Nagayama Tetsuya , Nishimuta Yosuke , Sugata Sei , Nishizawa Teruhiko , Arita Kazunori
Published: August 2009

In patients with severe arteriosclerosis or anatomical variations such as a bovine arch, the insertion of a guiding catheter for carotid artery stenting is difficult. The authors use a guide wire system as an anchor and advance the guiding catheter to an area proximal to the stenotic structure. This method is useful and safer than others for carotid artery stenting.
Image-guided convection-enhanced delivery of muscimol to the primate brain
Authors: Heiss John D. , Walbridge Stuart , Asthagiri Ashok R. , Lonser Russell R.
Published: August 2009

Object

Muscimol is a potent γ-aminobutyric acid-A receptor agonist that temporarily and selectively suppresses neurons. Targeted muscimol suppression of neuronal structures could provide insight into the pathophysiological processes and treatment of a variety of neurological disorders. To determine if muscimol delivered to the brain by convection-enhanced delivery could be monitored using a coinfused surrogate MR imaging tracer, the authors perfused the striata of primates with tritiated muscimol and Gd–diethylenetriamine pentaacetic acid (DTPA).

Methods

Three primates underwent convective coinfusion of 3H-muscimol (0.8 μM) and Gd-DTPA (5 mM) into the bilateral striata. Primates underwent serial MR imaging during infusion, and the animals were killed immediately after infusion. Postmortem quantitative autoradiography and histological analysis was performed.

Results

Real-time MR imaging revealed that infusate (tritiated muscimol and Gd-DTPA) distribution was clearly discernible from the noninfused parenchyma. Real-time MR imaging of the infusion revealed the precise region of anatomical perfusion in each animal. Imaging analysis during infusion revealed that the distribution volume (Vd) of infusate linearly increased (R = 0.92) with volume of infusion (Vi). Overall, the mean (± SD) Vd/Vi ratio was 8.2 ± 1.3. Autoradiographic analysis revealed that MR imaging of Gd-DTPA closely correlated with the distribution of 3H-muscimol, and precisely estimated its Vd (mean difference in Vd, 7.4%). Quantitative autoradiograms revealed that muscimol was homogeneously distributed over the perfused region in a square-shaped concentration profile.

Conclusions

Muscimol can be effectively delivered to clinically relevant volumes of the primate brain. Moreover, the distribution of muscimol can be tracked using coinfusion of Gd-DTPA and MR imaging. The ability to perform accurate monitoring and to control the anatomical extent of muscimol distribution during its convection-enhanced delivery will enhance safety, permit correlations of muscimol distribution with clinical effect, and should lead to an improved understanding of the pathophysiological processes underlying a variety of neurological disorders.
Scottish Kantians: An Exploration
Authors: Burns J. H.
Published: August 2009

From the late 1790s to the early 1890s, Scottish scholars contributed, as translators, commentators, or critics to the ‘reception’ of Kant's philosophy in Britain. The discussion here considers particularly the work of Richardson, Semple, Gillies, MacVicar, Ferrier, Meiklejohn, and Hastie, and attempts to assess the character, quality, and value of their contributions to Kantian scholarship. An important question throughout is whether – and if so, how far and why – the work of Scottish Kantians can be meaningfully discussed apart from their English contemporaries – one relevant consideration being the distinctive rôle of philosophy in the Scottish M.A. curriculum.
Sympathy, Beauty, and Sentiment: Adam Smith's Aesthetic Morality
Authors: Fudge Robert
Published: August 2009

One of the more striking aspects of Adam Smith's moral theory is the degree to which it depends on and appeals to aesthetic norms. By considering what Smith says about judgments of propriety – the foundational type of judgment in his system – and by tying what he says in The Theory of Moral Sentiments to certain of his other writings, I argue that Smith ultimately defends an aesthetic morality. Among the challenges that any aesthetic morality faces is that it seems to entail moral relativism. This problem is magnified by Smith's reliance on the judgments of the impartial spectator, which also seems to make his theory more vulnerable to a Euthyphro-type objection. I suggest that Smith can potentially get around these problems, given his presumption of aesthetic naturalism. While there is certainly some variation in our aesthetic judgments, Smith claims that we naturally find certain actions and sentiments odious, while others we find agreeable. The reason, he argues, is that any society that judged otherwise would not survive.
Millar on Slavery
Authors: Ablondi Fred
Published: August 2009

John Millar's The Origin of the Distinction of Ranks is best known for its first chapter in which Adam Smith's favorite student traces the social status of women as it changed at various historical stages. Millar's concern is strictly with description and explanation. In the less discussed final chapter he examines the authority of a master over his servants. His treatment of slavery differs from the account of the rank of women in several notable ways, most significantly, perhaps, by including normative judgments on the immorality of slavery. This article begins with Millar's examination of the master-servant/slave relation, and then turns to his arguments against slavery. These arguments go substantially beyond those of his mentor Smith, and there are several particular points regarding slavery on which they disagreed. The paper concludes with a discussion of these contrasts.