bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Microinfiltração em restaurações a amálgama de prata, forradas com Vernizes Simples e Modificados – “Estudo in vitro”
Authors: Sansiviero Alberto , Mamede Neto Antônio Luiz , Matumoto Marise Sano Suga , Blas Rodrigo
Published: May 2011

Os autores selecionaram quarenta dentes molares e pré-molares, obtidos de pacientes de ambos os sexos e diferentes idades, extraídos em virtude de indicações cirúrgicas, protéticas ou ortodônticas que, após processo de limpeza, foram armazenados em soro fisiológico. Nas superfícies das faces vestibular e lingual de cada dente, prepararam-se cavidades de Classe V de Black, com margem gengival na junção amelocementária, totalizando 80 preparos. Todos os dentes foram restaurados pelo mesmo operador, utilizando-se a mesma relação limalha / mercúrio, recebendo tratamento forrador com vernizes simples e modificados antes da condensação do amálgama. Depois da realização do processo de impermeabilização, o corante a Rhodamina-B foi utilizado como agente traçador. Os dentes foram seccionados longitudinalmente, segundo um plano axial vestíbulolingual que passava pelo centro das restaurações. Verificou-se com microscopia óptica, o grau de penetração do corante.
Exercícios de resistência progressiva (ERP): uma prática homogênea em função do número de séries
Authors: Garcia Alessandro Barreta , Monteiro Rui Anderson Costa , Ugrinowitsch Herbert , Alves Ubiratan Silva , Montero Eduardo Gunther
Published: May 2011

Os exercícios de resistência progressiva ERP representam uma metodologia de treinamento que visa principalmente ao aprimoramento de componentes da aptidão física geral. Sua prática complexa, derivada da heterogeneidade natural dos indivíduos, despertou interesse em identificar qual dos sistemas é mais prescrito por especialistas, professores e estagiários de educação física: se o de série única (1 série) ou o de séries múltiplas (2, 3 ou 4 séries). Fez-se a pesquisa por meio de 19 questionários distribuídos entre as 7 grandes academias de São Paulo, capital, que foram analisados e interpretados de forma qualitativa. Em desacordo com fontes originais, que norteiam a prescrição dos ERP, os resultados representam uma prática homogênea, tradicional e extremamente discutível.
Avaliação da adequação nutricional das dietas para emagrecimento veiculadas pela internet
Authors: Santana Hilda Matos de Melo , Mayer Mariana Del Ben , Camargo Kátia Gavranich
Published: May 2011

Os hábitos alimentares são construídos a partir da experiência familiar e do ambiente social. Neste contexto, os meios de comunicação de massa têm contribuído bastante para o aparecimento de conceitos inadequados e errôneos a respeito de saúde na busca de um ‘corpo ideal’, aumentando a veiculação de dietas impróprias e inadequadas do ponto de vista nutricional. No caso da Internet, por exemplo, meio de comunicação cada vez mais utilizado e que atende ao princípio de liberdade que norteia a rede mundial de computadores, fica impossível exercer controle sobre o conteúdo das informações de saúde veiculadas. Por essa razão, o presente trabalho pesquisou a palavra ‘dieta’ na Internet, utilizando ferramenta de busca eletrônica, o que permitiu detectar inúmeras dietas e regimes alimentares que circulam neste meio de comunicação. As dietas mais freqüentemente citadas foram a ‘Dieta do Atum’, ‘Dieta da USP’, ‘Dieta dos Pontos’ e ‘Dieta dos Líquidos’. A análise da adequação realizada, segundo o Recommended Dietary Allowances (RDA), mostrou que todas as dietas encontradas estão nutricionalmente inadequadas e incompatíveis com a saúde do indivíduo.
Geometria dinâmica e reconstrução do pensamento geométrico grego na sala de aula
Authors: Talavera Leda Maria Bastoni
Published: May 2011

Nas aulas de matemática, o uso de softwares de geometria dinâmica pelos alu¬nos, embasado em princípios históricos e filosóficos, pode resgatar um pensa¬mento geométrico que, segundo os gregos, levaria ao mundo do conhecimento. Esse caminho histórico, exemplificado com construções feitas por Apolônio e Arquimedes usando os recursos de geometria dinâmica (GA) do software Cabri Géomètre II, será objeto de estudo deste trabalho para verificar as hipóteses le¬vantadas, o que nos permitirá comprovar, em tempo real, a definição de parábola por meio de áre as construídas por Apolônio e a prova de Arquimedes da soma das áreas dos triângulos obtidos de um segmento de parábola delimitado por um arco parabólico.
Uso agrícola de esgoto tratado em lagoas de estabilização: experiências do Prosab em Lins – SP
Authors: Mendonça Fernando Campos , Piveli Roque Passos
Published: May 2011

Em uma área de cerca de 6 hectares, ao lado do sistema de tratamento de esgo¬tos de Lins – SP, pertencente à Sabesp, foi construído um sistema piloto para a realização de estudos sobre aplicações agrícolas do efluente final. Construíram-se unidades de tratamento adicional dos esgotos, principalmente de desinfecção por hipocloritação, aplicação de radiação ultravioleta (UV) e ozonização. Os efluen¬tes finais foram aplicados em processo de fertirrigação, tendo-se cultivado café, milho e feijão, alimentados por gotejamento. Paralelamente, uma parcela dos esgotos alimentou um sistema de hidroponia em vasos, onde foram cultivados crisântemo e Gypsophila (mosquitinho). Uma terceira linha paralela alimentou um tanque de piscicultura em que foram cultivadas tilápias do Nilo. Recorreu-se a uma série de variáveis físico-químicas e biológicas para o controle da qualidade dos esgotos nos diversos estágios do tratamento das espécies cultivadas e do solo, bem como à utilização de parâmetros agronômicos para a identificação das ca¬racterísticas dos crescimentos. Em todos os casos, foram mantidos controles em paralelo com culturas convencionais. Os resultados demonstraram que o efluente das lagoas, além da capacidade hídrica, possui nutrientes potencialmente apro¬veitáveis agronomicamente, podendo vir a constituir economia substancial em tais aplicações que, por outro lado, evitam a eutrofização das águas naturais.
Einstein: annus mirabilis
Authors: Contieri Roberto Pepi
Published: May 2011

Em março de 1905, ano em que Albert Einstein completava 26 anos, ele começou a publicar uma série de trabalhos que revolucionaram a Física, o conhecimento e a cultura até os dias de hoje. Foi seu annus mirabilis – o período em que, entre papéis e declarações sobre patentes de produtos elétricos numa fi rma suíça, nasceu de sua imaginação um conceito tão material quanto transcendente: o do espaço-tempo ou do tempo como quarta dimensão. O texto pretende reportar às condições vividas por Einstein em 1905 e ao seu desenvolvimento intelectual e familiar na confecção de seus artigos.
A razão áurea e os padrões harmônicos na natureza, artes e arquitetura
Authors: Lauro Maira Mendias
Published: May 2011

Os antigos gregos consideravam mais harmoniosos e belos os retângulos que estivessem numa proporção conhecida como áurea. O templo grego Partenon, construído no século V a.C., talvez seja o exemplo mais emblemático do emprego dessa proporção que revela a preocupação em realizar obras de extrema harmonia. Esse critério estético atravessou os séculos e é adotado, ainda hoje, por alguns artistas. Neste trabalho, apresentamos e discutimos alguns exemplos do emprego dessa proporção nas artes, nas obras arquitetônicas e também na natureza e nas proporções do corpo humano, demonstrando a presença da Geometria no mundo à nossa volta
Centralidades e governança na área metropolitana de São Paulo: dilemas do regionalismo diante do desenvolvimento terciário nas cidades
Authors: Puchala Rosa
Published: May 2011

Este artigo aborda a reestruturação de áreas urbanas centrais no recente processo de desenvolvimento do setor terciário na área metropolitana de São Paulo, com o objetivo de investigar a influência das políticas de governos locais, da competitividade entre cidades e do novo regionalismo na chamada dispersão urbana, que procura caracterizar o processo de fragmentação política e territorial entre governos e cidades e seu significado para a governança local e regional. Quanto à governança local, o artigo propõe resgatar algumas referências importantes do urbanismo contemporâneo, incluindo o urbanismo pós-moderno, o planejamento estratégico de cidades e o novo regionalismo. Por outro lado, no tocante à governança regional que envolve diversos níveis de governo e cidades, pretende investigar o sentido estratégico da política regional para o desenvolvimento de áreas centrais e a competitividade global do conjunto da área metropolitana.
Biodeterioração de tintas à base de água por fungos
Authors: Bach Erna Elisabeth , Rangel Áurea Renata
Published: May 2011

As tintas aquosas estão sujeitas a contaminações microbiológicas que ocorrem em seu estado úmido ou seco provocando a biodeterioração. Algumas espécies de fungos colonizam a superfície, escurecendo-a e destruindo a película da tinta. Os biocidas são produtos incorporados à tinta, cuja função é proteger o filme tanto no estado úmido quanto no estado seco, visando à inibição do crescimento do fungo, garantindo maior durabilidade à pintura. O constante aparecimento de fungos em paredes de residências recém-pintadas tornou-se objeto de pesquisa deste trabalho. Para os testes, foram isolados fungos de paredes contaminadas de residências pintadas recentemente (oito meses) e, depois, inoculados em lâminas contendo meio de cultura ágar-água (AA) – como controle – e em outras o meio impregnado de biocidas ou de tinta e biocida. Os resultados demonstraram que alguns isolados apresentavam pouco desenvolvimento em tintas à base de látex polivinil acrílico (PVA) contendo biocidas, enquanto, em outros, se verificou aumento no desenvolvimento de colônias correlacionado com esporulação maior. Diante disso, pode-se concluir que a quantidade de biocida presente nas tintas, ou foi insuficiente, ou existiu uma ineficiência dos agentes microbicidas (bactericida e fungicida), demonstrando que os fungos adquiriram resistência aos biocidas.
Tecnologia de informação para portais corporativos
Authors: Shitsuka Ricardo , Boghi Cláudio , Longo Gilberto Carlos , Barroso Antonio Carlos De Oliveira , Ponçano Vera Maria Lopes , Imakuma Kengo , Yamamoto Ricardo , Shitsuka Dorlivete Moreira , Shitsuka Rabbith Ive Carolina Moreira , Shitsuka Caleb David Willy Moreira
Published: May 2011

A tecnologia de informação (TI) utilizada nos portais corporativos tende a evoluir para atender às necessidades dos usuários. Neste trabalho de prospecção, os autores procuram entender como está ocorrendo a aceitação e aplicação das tecnologias realy simply syndication (RSS), de pesquisas de informações na web (spotlight), de compressão e descompressão de nformações gráfi cas (H.264), do editor de diário eletrônico digital (blog) e de banda larga como ferramentas agregadoras de valor aos negócios.
Monitoramento remoto de temperatura utilizando o sistema 1-wireTM: avaliação da transmissão de dados
Authors: Neto Antonio José Steidle , Zolnier Sérgio , Lopes Daniela De Carvalho , Filho Antonio José Steidle , Martins José Helvecio
Published: May 2011

Em unidades industriais de produção e processamento de proteínas de origem animal e vegetal, assim como em outros setores em que o acompanhamento da temperatura é imprescindível, sistemas de monitoramento automático, capazes de transmitir dados precisos de temperatura a longas distâncias, podem contribuir para o aumento da qualidade dos produtos finais. Nesse sentido, realizou-se este trabalho com o propósito de avaliar a transmissão de dados de temperatura no sistema 1-wireTM, utilizando-se condutores de baixo custo, amplamente comercializados para fi ns residenciais, com tipos e comprimentos distintos. O sistema 1-wireTM é uma rede de transmissão de dados que possibilita a comunicação digital entre um computador e dispositivos da série 1-wireTM, tais como os sensores de temperatura DS1820. Com base nos resultados obtidos, pôde-se concluir que os condutores telefônicos foram os que apresentaram os melhores desempenhos, possibilitando a transmissão de dados por distâncias de até 150 metros.
Efeitos da interferência eletromagnética em aeronaves causados por dispositivos eletrônicos portáteis (PEDs)
Authors: Librantz André Felipe Henriques , Librantz Helio
Published: May 2011

Diferentes operadores aeronáuticos vêm demonstrando preocupação com os efeitos da interferência eletromagnética em aviônicos e equipamentos eletroeletrônicos dos aviões, decorrente do uso de dispositivos eletrônicos portáteis (em inglês, portable electronic devices [PEDs]), que podem ser facilmente carregados pelos passageiros. Entre os aparelhos suspeitos, estão laptops e palmtops, reprodutores e gravadores de áudio, jogos e brinquedos eletrônicos, laser pointers, celulares, rádios de comunicação e pagers. Desacoplamentos ou desvios de pilotos automáticos, indicações erráticas em displays e, até mesmo, o desligamento inadvertido da aviônica ou variações não comandadas nas superfícies de comando são as falhas atribuídas a esses dispositivos. Apesar de sofrerem críticas, diversas agências reguladoras de aeronáutica, no mundo todo, proibiram o uso desses aparelhos portáteis, em especial nas fases críticas do vôo – pouso e decolagem. No entanto, é cada vez maior o desejo dos passageiros de usar, ininterruptamente, laptops e celulares, o que torna necessária a adoção de procedimentos seguros para satisfazer essa demanda. Apesar da preocupação com esses efeitos perigosos, existem, ainda, dúvidas sobre o tema e, até por isso, indica-se a necessidade de mais investigações sobre esses fenômenos. Neste trabalho, relatamos os principais experimentos realizados com o intuito de esclarecer como os PEDs, mais especificamente os telefones celulares, provocam a indesejada interferência eletromagnética.
Investigation of energy shift of 4f3 and 4f25d levels in Nd-doped YLF and LLF crystals 1 2
Authors: Librantz André Felipe Henriques , Gomes Laércio , Tarelho Luiz Vicente Gomes , Ranieri Izilda Márcia
Published: May 2011

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Aderência do aço-concreto produzido com agregado reciclado
Authors: Oliveira Márcio Joaquim Estefano de , Assis Cássia Silveira de , Assis Cássia Silveira de
Published: May 2011

As obras de construção civil (incluindo novas edifi cações, reformas e demolições), produzem uma quantidade considerável de resíduos de construção e de demolição (RCDs) que, geralmente, são descartados de maneira inadequada e sem critério, o que causa sérios problemas tanto ao meio ambiente quanto ao ser humano. Ao despejarem esses detritos em rios,beiras de estradas, terrenos próprios à agricultura, devido aos contaminantes presentes nesse material, como betume, sulfato de cálcio, tintas e solventes, o desequilíbrio provocado no ecossistema é muito grande. A utilização de agregado reciclado em pavimentos, em blocos, em concreto sem função estrutural e, mais recentemente, em concreto com função estrutural são algumas opções para atenuar os impactos ambientais. Atualmente, estudam-se propriedades do concreto obtido do agregado reciclado para que ele seja utilizado com segurança. Um dos aspectos que merecem atenção é a aderência deste tipo de concreto com o aço. Foram produzidos corpos-de-prova em concreto armado em que houve a substituição parcial de agregado natural por agregado reciclado e concreto armado convencional, assumido como referência. Os espécimes foram submetidos ao ensaio de tração para calcular a tensão de aderência, segundo as normas brasileiras. Apesar de apresentarem variações, os testes indicaram a possibilidade do uso de concreto armado resultante do emprego de agregado reciclado em projetos que demandem estruturas capazes de suportar tensões superiores a 25 megapascal (MPa).
Abordagens de utilização de arquiteturas middleware em aplicações robóticas embarcadas
Authors: Ferreira Gustavo André Nunes
Published: May 2011

Sistemas embarcados, em especial os robóticos, apresentam, em sua estrutura, uma multiplicidade de dispositivos que – com base, não raro, numa variedade tecnológica tanto em hardware quanto em software e conectada com diferentes tecnologias e protocolos de redes – resulta em uma arquitetura bastante heterogênea e bem distribuída. Para auxiliar no enfrentamento dessa complexidade inerente aos sistemas distribuídos, foi desenvolvido o conceito de arquitetura middleware, que consiste em uma camada de integração de software. O objetivo central deste artigo é expor, por meio de uma visão geral, a utilização de arquiteturas middleware em aplicações de robótica embarcada, especialmente as que possuem dispositivos de escassa disponibilidade de recursos (memória, capacidade de processamento e comunicação), como microcontroladores e sensores inteligentes (em inglês smart sensors), além de analisar diferentes tipos de abordagem para que essas arquiteturas sejam usadas adequadamente.
Navegação autônoma de robôs
Authors: Araújo Sidnei Alves de , Librantz André Felipe Henriques
Published: May 2011

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A geometria fractal e suas aplicações em arquitetura e urbanismo
Authors: Minucci Ana Maria Sala , Librantz André Felipe Henriques
Published: May 2011

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Ferramenta para análise da viabilidade de projetos industriais
Authors: Haber Jabra
Published: May 2011

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Contextualização de redes neurais recorrentes
Authors: Toscano Wagner , Cabral Eduardo Lobo Lustosa
Published: May 2011

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Alinhamento estratégico em um sistema flexível de manufatura
Authors: Pordeus Eliacy Cavalcanti Lélis
Published: May 2011

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Risk Factors and Preventive Interventions for Alzheimer Disease
Authors: Daviglus Martha L. , Plassman Brenda L. , Pirzada Amber , Bell Carl C. , Bowen Phyllis E. , Burke James R. , Connolly E. Sander , Dunbar-Jacob Jacqueline M. , Granieri Evelyn C. , McGarry Kathleen , Patel Dinesh , Trevisan Maurizio , Williams John W.
Published: May 2011

Background

Numerous studies have investigated risk factors for Alzheimer disease (AD). However, at a recent National Institutes of Health State-of-the-Science Conference, an independent panel found insufficient evidence to support the association of any modifiable factor with risk of cognitive decline or AD.

Objective

To present key findings for selected factors and AD risk that led the panel to their conclusion.

Data Sources

An evidence report was commissioned by the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality. It included English-language publications in MEDLINE and the Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews from 1984 through October 27, 2009. Expert presentations and public discussions were considered.

Study Selection

Study inclusion criteria for the evidence report were participants aged 50 years and older from general populations in developed countries; minimum sample sizes of 300 for cohort studies and 50 for randomized controlled trials; at least 2 years between exposure and outcome assessment; and use of well-accepted diagnostic criteria for AD.

Data Extraction

Included studies were evaluated for eligibility and data were abstracted. Quality of overall evidence for each factor was summarized as low, moderate, or high.

Data Synthesis

Diabetes mellitus, hyperlipidemia in midlife, and current tobacco use were associated with increased risk of AD, and Mediterranean-type diet, folic acid intake, low or moderate alcohol intake, cognitive activities, and physical activity were associated with decreased risk. The quality of evidence was low for all of these associations.

Conclusion

Currently, insufficient evidence exists to draw firm conclusions on the association of any modifiable factors with risk of AD.
Glucose Transporter 1 Deficiency as a Treatable Cause of Myoclonic Astatic Epilepsy
Authors: Mullen Saul A. , Marini Carla , Suls Arvid , Mei Davide , Della Giustina Elvio , Buti Daniela , Arsov Todor , Damiano John , Lawrence Kate , De Jonghe Peter , Berkovic Samuel F. , Scheffer Ingrid E. , Guerrini Renzo
Published: May 2011

Objective

To determine if a significant proportion of patients with myoclonic-astatic epilepsy (MAE) have glucose transporter 1 (GLUT1) deficiency.

Design

Genetic analysis.

Setting

Ambulatory and hospitalized care.

Patients

Eighty-four unrelated probands with MAE were phenotyped andSLC2A1was sequenced and analyzed by multiplex ligation-dependent probe amplification. Any identified mutations were then screened in controls.

Main Outcome Measure

AnySLC2A1mutations.

Results

Four of 84 probands with MAE had a mutation ofSLC2A1on sequencing. Multiplex ligation-dependent probe amplification analysis did not reveal any genomic rearrangements in 75 of the remaining cases; 5 could not be tested. Two patients with MAE withSLC2A1mutations also developed paroxysmal exertional dyskinesia in childhood.

Conclusions

Five percent of our patients with MAE hadSLC2A1mutations, suggesting that patients with MAE should be tested for GLUT1 deficiency. Diagnosis of GLUT1 deficiency is a strong indication for early use of the ketogenic diet, which may substantially improve outcome of this severe disorder.
Neurocognitive impairment in childhood‐onset systemic lupus erythematosus: Measurement issues in diagnosis
Authors: Williams Tricia S. , Aranow Cynthia , Ross Gail S. , Barsdorf Alexandra , Imundo Lisa F. , Eichenfield Andrew H. , Kahn Philip J. , Diamond Betty , Levy Deborah M.
Published: May 2011

Objective

To assess the prevalence of neurocognitive impairment (NCI) in childhood‐onset systemic lupus erythematosus (cSLE) by comparing published classification criteria, and to examine associations between NCI, disease characteristics, psychosocial well‐being, and intelligence.

Methods

cSLE patients and ethnicity‐ and age‐matched healthy controls completed a neuropsychological research battery, and results were categorized by 3 different NCI classification criteria with different cutoff scores (e.g., >2, 1.5, or 1 SD below the mean) and the number of required abnormal tests or domains.

Results

Forty‐one cSLE subjects and 22 controls were included. Subjects were predominantly female (∼70%) and Hispanic (∼70%). Executive functioning, psychomotor speed, and fine motor speed were most commonly affected. Method 1 classified 34.1% of cSLE subjects with NCI compared to method 2 (14.6% with decline and 7.3% with NCI) and method 3 (63.4% with NCI). The prevalence of NCI was not significantly different between the controls and patients using any of the categorization methods. NCI was not associated with SLE disease activity or characteristics or with depression. Using method 3, patients in the cognitive impairment group reported significantly lower quality of life estimates (69.7 versus 79.3; P = 0.03). Below average intellectual functioning (intelligence quotient <90) differentiated the number of test scores >1 and >1.5 SDs, but not >2 SDs below the mean.

Conclusion

NCI was prevalent in cSLE, but varied according to the chosen categorization method. A similar proportion of cSLE patients and controls had NCI, reinforcing the importance of studying an appropriate control group. Categorical classification (i.e., impaired/nonimpaired) may oversimplify the commonly observed deficits in cSLE.
Association between environmental factors and onset of psoriatic arthritis in patients with psoriasis
Authors: Eder Lihi , Law Tamryn , Chandran Vinod , Shanmugarajah Sutha , Shen Hua , Rosen Cheryl F. , Cook Richard J. , Gladman Dafna D.
Published: May 2011

Objective

To investigate the association between potential environmental exposures and the development of psoriatic arthritis (PsA) in patients with psoriasis.

Methods

In this case–control study, the cases were patients with recent‐onset PsA. The controls were psoriasis patients without arthritis. The occurrence of the following environmental exposures was recorded through a standardized questionnaire: smoking, alcohol consumption, infections, injuries, physically demanding occupational tasks, stressful life events, vaccinations, and female hormonal exposures. The association between each exposure to environmental events and disease status was assessed through logistic regression after adjustment for age, sex, education level, and duration and severity of psoriasis.

Results

There were 159 subjects in each group. The following exposures remained significantly associated with PsA following multivariate logistic regression: lifting cumulative loads of at least 100 pounds/hour (odds ratio [OR] 2.8, 95% confidence interval [95% CI] 1.51–5.05), infections that required antibiotics (OR 1.7, 95% CI 1.00–2.77), smoking (OR 0.6, 95% CI 0.36–0.89), and injuries (OR 2.1, 95% CI 1.11–4.01). The results were not appreciably changed with the inclusion of each of these factors in a single regression model; however, the level of significance for injuries had become borderline. No association was found between PsA and alcohol consumption, vaccination, stressful life events, and female hormonal exposures.

Conclusion

Lifting heavy loads and infections that required antibiotics were associated with the occurrence of arthritis among patients with psoriasis. There was an inverse association between smoking and PsA. Further studies are necessary to determine whether these and other environmental factors are moderated by predisposing genetic factors.
Kinetic Monte Carlo Simulations of Anisotropic Lithium Intercalation into LixFePO4 Electrode Nanocrystals
Authors: Hin Céline
Published: May 2011

The kinetic anisotropy of lithium ion adsorption and lithium absorption for LixFePO4 olivine nanocrystals is simulated and reported. The kinetics depend on the orientation of the electrolyte/LixFePO4 interface with respect to the far‐field ionic flux. As a consequence of these kinetics and a Li miscibility gap in LixFePO4, the particle geometry and orientation also have an effect on the morphology of the two‐phase evolution. These processes accompany the charge and discharge behavior in battery microstructures and a direct influence on battery behavior is suggested. A kinetic Monte Carlo (KMC) algorithm based on a cathode particle rigid lattice is used to simulate the kinetics in this system. In these simulations the adsorption kinetics of the electrolyte/electrode interface are treated by coupling the normal flux outside the particle from a continuum numerical simulation of Li‐ion diffusion in the electrolyte to the atomistic KMC model within the particle. The interfacial reaction depends on local concentration and the potential drop at the interface via the Butler–Volmer (B–V) relation. The atomic potentials for the KMC simulation are derived from empirical solubility limits (as determined by OCV measurements). The main results show that the galvanostatic lithium‐uptake/cell‐voltage has three regimes: 1) a decreasing cell potential for Li‐insertion into a Li‐poor phase; 2) a nearly constant potential after the nucleation of a Li‐rich phase Li(1‐β)FePO4; 3) a decreasing cell potential after the Li‐poor phase has been evolved into a Li‐rich phase. The behavior in the second regime is sensitive to crystallographic orientation.
Influence of Ion Induced Local Coulomb Field and Polarity on Charge Generation and Efficiency in Poly(3‐Hexylthiophene)‐Based Solid‐State Dye‐Sensitized Solar Cells
Authors: Abrusci Agnese , Santosh Kumar R. Sai , Al‐Hashimi Mohammed , Heeney Martin , Petrozza Annamaria , Snaith Henry J.
Published: May 2011

Dye‐sensitized solar cells (DSSC) are a realistic option for converting light to electrical energy. Hybrid architectures offer a vast materials library for device optimization, including a variety of metal oxides, organic and inorganic sensitizers, molecular, polymeric and electrolytic hole‐transporter materials. In order to further improve the efficiency of solid‐state dye‐sensitized solar cells, recent attention has focused on using light absorbing polymers such as poly(3‐hexylthiophene) (P3HT), to replace the more commonly used “transparent” 2,2′,7,7′‐tetrakis‐(N,N‐di‐p‐methoxyphenyl‐amine)9,9′spiro‐bifluorene (spiro‐OMeTAD), in order to enhance the light absorption within thin films. As is the case with spiro‐OMeTAD based solid‐state DSSC, the P3HT‐based devices improve significantly with the addition of lithium bis(trifluoromethylsulfonyl)imide salts (Li‐TFSI), although the precise role of these additives has not yet been clarified in solid‐state DSCs. Here, we present a thorough study on the effect of Li‐TFSI in P3HT based solid‐state DSSC incorporating an indolene‐based organic sensitizer termed D102. Employing ultrafast transient absorption and cw‐emission spectroscopy together with electronic measurements, we demonstrate a fine tuning of the energetic landscape of the active cell components by the local Coulomb field induced by the ions. This increases the charge transfer nature of the excited state on the dye, significantly accelerating electron injection into the TiO2. We demonstrate that this ionic influence on the excited state energy is the primary reason for enhanced charge generation with the addition of ionic additives. The deepening of the relative position of the TiO2 conduction band, which has previously been thought to be the cause for enhanced charge generation in dye sensitized solar cells with the addition of lithium salts, appears to be of minor importance in this system.
Anatomic and etiological classification of congenital limb deficiencies
Authors: Gold Nina B. , Westgate Marie‐Noel , Holmes Lewis B.
Published: May 2011

Limb deficiencies, the congenital absence or hypoplasia of a long bone and/or digits, vary greatly in their anatomy and etiology. Previous attempts to classify the range of possible phenotypes have not included all types of deficiencies. We present a new classification system, which includes all potential phenotypes. Infants with limb deficiencies were identified in the hospital‐based Active Malformations Surveillance Program at Brigham and Women's Hospital in Boston, MA from the years 1972 to 1974 and 1979 to 2000. Affected infants were classified based on the anatomy and apparent cause of their deficiencies. The prevalence rate of all types of limb deficiency was 0.79/1,000. Upper limb deficiencies were significantly more common than lower limb deficiencies. There was no significant difference in frequencies between deficiencies on the left and right sides of the body. Longitudinal defects were more common than terminal transverse defects; intercalary defects were uncommon. Longitudinal defects were most likely to occur on the preaxial side of the limb. Almost half of affected infants had affected digits, with normal long bones. The most common apparent cause of limb deficiencies was vascular disruption defects (0.22/1,000), such as amniotic band‐related limb deficiency. This new classification system includes deficiency of each long bone, as well as absence of any finger or toe. This system will make it possible to establish the prevalence of each specific phenotype. The large number of distinct apparent causes illustrates the marked etiologic heterogeneity of limb deficiencies. © 2011 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Synthesis and characterization of a well‐defined amphiphilic block copolymer and its paclitaxel prodrug from methoxy poly(ethylene glycol) and oligomer of glycolic acid
Authors: Zhang Li , Fu Jinyan , Xia Zhixiang , Wu Ping , Zhang Xuefei
Published: May 2011

A well‐defined amphiphilic block copolymer was synthesized by the coupling of carboxyl‐terminated methoxy poly(ethylene glycol) (MPEG) with a hydroxyl‐terminated octamer of glycolic acid, which was obtained by a stepwise synthetic procedure with the end‐group protection and deprotection. The block copolymer had a polydispersity index (PDI) of 1.01, as determined by gel permeation chromatography. It was further coupled to paclitaxel to form a prodrug of paclitaxel. The paclitaxel content in the prodrug was about 10%, and its PDI was 1.02. The antitumor activity of the conjugate against human lung carcinoma A549 cells was evaluated by mitochondrial dehydrogenase (MTT) assay. The results show that paclitaxel could be released from the conjugate without losing cytotoxicity. Therefore, the well‐defined amphiphilic block copolymer from MPEG and oligomer of glycolic acid could potentially provide novel opportunities to obtain reproducible pharmacokinetic behavior in the design of a drug‐delivery system. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2011
Properties of transglutaminase‐treated red bean protein films
Authors: Tang Chuan‐He , Xiao Ming‐Li , Chen Zhong , Yang Xiao‐Quan
Published: May 2011

The effects of microbial transglutaminase (MTGase) treatment at various enzyme concentrations (4‐40 U g−1) on the properties of cast films from red bean protein isolate were investigated. The evaluated properties included mechanical properties (tensile strength, TS and elongation at break, EB), surface hydrophobicity (Hs), moisture content (MC), total soluble matter (TSM), water vapor transmission rate (WVTR) and permeability (WVP), as well as transparency. The results indicated that the TS and EB, and TSM were greatly improved by the MTGase treatment at low enzyme concentrations of 4‐10 U g−1, but considerably impaired at higher concentrations 20‐40 U g−1. The MTGase treatment also significantly increased the Hs, but decreased MC and WVTR, but the changes were independent of the applied enzyme concentration. The MTGase treatment progressively decreased the moisture loss during the drying of film‐forming solutions, upon the increase in enzyme concentration. The protein solubility analyses in various solvents indicated that the contribution of covalent linkages to film network formation progressively increased upon the increase in enzyme concentration. The results suggest that the modifications of the properties of cast films are closely associated with the extent of MTGase‐induced covalent polymerization and/or aggregation. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2011
Ongoing disease activity and changing categories in a long‐term nordic cohort study of juvenile idiopathic arthritis
Authors: Nordal Ellen , Zak Marek , Aalto Kristiina , Berntson Lillemor , Fasth Anders , Herlin Troels , Lahdenne Pekka , Nielsen Susan , Straume Bjørn , Rygg Marite ,   Nordic Study Group of Pediatric Rheumatology
Published: May 2011

Objective

To describe the disease characteristics, long‐term course, and outcome of patients with juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA) in a population‐based setting.

Methods

Consecutive cases of JIA from defined geographic areas of Denmark, Finland, Sweden, and Norway in whom disease onset occurred in 1997–2000 were included in a prospective, multicenter cohort study. The study was designed to be as close to a population‐based study as possible, with centers participating only if they were able to include in their catchment area all children in whom JIA was diagnosed.

Results

Of 500 children included, 440 (88.0%) had repeated visits, with the last visit occurring at least 7 years after disease onset (median 98 months, range 84–147 months). Changes in the International League of Associations for Rheumatology category were observed in 10.8% of the children, and, in addition, extended oligoarthritis developed in 34.7% of the group with oligoarticular JIA. During the observation period, 58.0% of the children were treated with disease‐modifying antirheumatic drugs, including biologic medications. Ongoing disease activity was mostly mild, but some JIA‐related damage developed in 22.9% of the children. At the last followup visit, remission off medication was observed in 42.4% of the children, 8.9% were in remission on medication, and 48.7% were not in remission. The highest rates of remission were observed in patients with persistent oligoarticular JIA and in those with systemic JIA.

Conclusion

In this long‐term prospective study of JIA in a population‐based Nordic setting, ongoing disease was evident in a majority of the children. The present results underline the need to identify early predictors of outcome, to further improve therapy, and to continue long‐term followup of patients with JIA.
Late‐onset neutropenia following rituximab therapy in rheumatic diseases: Association with B lymphocyte depletion and infections
Authors: Tesfa Daniel , Ajeganova Sofia , Hägglund Hans , Sander Birgitta , Fadeel Bengt , Hafström Ingiäld , Palmblad Jan
Published: May 2011

Objective

Late‐onset neutropenia following rituximab therapy is a well‐recognized side effect in lymphoma patients, but only a few cases of late‐onset neutropenia have been reported in patients with autoimmune disorders. The purpose of this study was to define the incidence, clinical features, and some of the underlying mechanisms of late‐onset neutropenia in relation to rituximab use in several rheumatic diseases.

Methods

We conducted a retrospective analysis of a cohort of 209 consecutive patients with rheumatic diseases who had been treated with rituximab at a university hospital between June 2003 and March 2009.

Results

Eleven patients with late‐onset neutropenia were identified. The highest incidence was observed in granulomatosis with polyangiitis (Wegener's) and systemic lupus erythematosus patients (23% and 20%, respectively), whereas the incidence in rheumatoid arthritis patients was 3%. The median time to onset of neutropenia was 102 days (range 40–362 days) and coincided with the entire period of B lymphocyte depletion; this depletion was more pronounced in patients with late‐onset neutropenia (P = 0.002) than in a control group of 20 matched patients without late‐onset neutropenia. Serum IgM levels decreased during the same time and to a significantly greater amount in patients with late‐onset neutropenia than in controls (P = 0.027). No patient with late‐onset neutropenia displayed specific antineutrophil antibodies. Seven patients were hospitalized because of infections (6 with sepsis and 1 with febrile neutropenia) that required intravenous antibiotics. Six were treated with granulocyte colony‐stimulating factor.

Conclusion

In patients treated with rituximab for rheumatic diseases, late‐onset neutropenia is a clinically significant adverse event associated with marked B lymphocyte depletion and severe infections. The incidence of late‐onset neutropenia appears to vary with autoimmune disease type.
A Dual‐Polymer Electrochromic Device with High Coloration Efficiency and Fast Response Time: Poly(3,4‐(1,4‐butylene‐(2‐ene)dioxy)thiophene)–Polyaniline ECD
Authors: Kang Joo‐Hee , Xu Zhaochao , Paek Seung‐Min , Wang Fang , Hwang Seong‐Ju , Yoon Juyoung , Choy Jin‐Ho
Published: May 2011

A new dual‐polymer electrochromic device (ECD) composed of poly(3,4‐(1,4‐butylene‐(2‐ene)dioxy)thiophene) (PBueDOT) and polyaniline (PANI) with a hydrophobic molten salt electrolyte has been developed. To build this system, an alkylenedioxy ring in the BueDOT backbone was expanded to include a strongly electron‐donating alkylenedioxy bridge, and the thickness and surface morphology of the corresponding PBueDOT film were controlled systematically. Not only the dual‐electrochromic‐polymer–electrode system, but also the expanded alkylenedioxy ring in the BueDOT backbone, synergistically improved the electrochromic performance. From the coloration efficiency (CE) value calculations, we found that the CE was enhanced up to 930 cm2 C−1. Furthermore, these ECDs showed an extremely fast response time of less than 80 ms.
A possible mechanism responsible for exceptional rainfall over Taiwan from Typhoon Morakot
Authors: Xu Xiangde , Lu C. , Xu Hongxiong , Chen Lianshou
Published: May 2011

During 6–9 August 2009, Typhoon Morakot hit Taiwan with exceptional rainfall and caused severe flooding and landslides, which resulted in a large number of human loss of life and significant property damage. The rainfall intensity broke the 50‐year record and was largely under‐forecasted. In this study, we have identified a possible mechanism responsible for this unusually heavy rainfall. It is found that the presence of the tropical storm Goni upstream of Morakot may be an important factor for the maintenance and intensification of Morakot. Goni transported a large amount of moisture and energy to Morakot. Numerical simulations indicate that the interaction of Goni and Morakot accounts for about 30% more rainfall than if Goni was not presented. This study may explain the unusual amount of rainfall for Morakot and thus provide additional considerations for future forecasts of similar situations. Copyright © 2011 Royal Meteorological Society
Laparoscopic resection with transanal specimen extraction for sigmoid diverticulitis
Authors: Leroy J , Costantino F , Cahill R A , D'Agostino J , Morales A , Mutter D , Marescaux J
Published: May 2011

Background

This prospective study evaluated the technical aspects and microbiological consequences of laparoscopic resection with transanal specimen extraction and per ano transcolonic stapler anvil insertion in patients requiring elective operation for previous diverticulitis.

Methods

Laparoscopic sigmoid colectomy was performed with three ports, and specimen extraction carried out transanally through a complete opening of the rectal stump. A triple-stapled anastomosis restored colonic continuity. Systematic intraoperative bacteriological sampling was performed. Intraoperative data as well as microbiological and postoperative outcomes were evaluated prospectively.

Results

Sixteen consecutive patients were studied over a 6-month period. All procedures were technically satisfactory, with a mean(s.d.) operating time of 120·9(41·9) min. No conversion or additional access was required. Four of the 16 patients developed complications, but none required intervention. Although polybacterial growth was present in all peritoneal culture samples, no infection-related complications were observed. Two patients had an extended course of perioperative antibiotic cover owing to overt peritoneal cavity contamination during surgery, and in two further patients antibiotics were instituted empirically following the development of postoperative fever alone.

Conclusion

Transanal specimen extraction in addition to per ano transcolonic stapler anvil insertion allows laparoscopic sigmoid resection to be performed with just three ports. Although intraperitoneal bacterial contamination occurs, this does not appear to translate into infectious morbidity.
Systematic review and meta-analysis of laparoscopic Nissen fundoplication with or without division of the short gastric vessels
Authors: Markar S R , Karthikesalingam A P , Wagner O J , Jackson D , Hewes J C , Vyas S , Hashemi M
Published: May 2011

Background

The aim of this meta-analysis was to provide a pooled analysis of individual trials comparing clinical outcome following laparoscopic Nissen fundoplication with or without division of the short gastric vessels (SGVs).

Methods

Primary outcome measures were the requirement for reoperation, and the presence of postoperative gastro-oesophageal reflux and postoperative dysphagia. Secondary outcome measures were duration of operation, length of hospital stay, postoperative complications (within 30 days of surgery), postoperative gas bloat syndrome, lower oesophageal sphincter resting pressure and DeMeester score. Pooled odds ratios were calculated for categorical outcomes, and weighted mean differences for secondary continuous outcomes, using random-effects models for meta-analysis.

Results

Five randomized trials were included in the analysis. There was no statistically significant effect on the requirement for reoperation, or presence of postoperative dysphagia or reflux. SGV division was associated with a longer duration of operation and a reduced postoperative lower oesophageal sphincter pressure. There was no statistically significant difference in length of hospital stay, postoperative complications, postoperative gas bloat syndrome or DeMeester score.

Conclusion

This meta-analysis has demonstrated that clinical outcome following laparoscopic Nissen fundoplication appears to be similar regardless of whether the short gastric vessels are divided. However, it is not possible to exclude many potentially important clinical differences and further studies are needed.
Deconstructing Health and the Un/Healthy Fat Woman
Authors: Tischner Irmgard , Malson Helen
Published: May 2011

Dominant discourses represent body weight as a consequence of lifestyle, equating ‘fatness’ with ‘disease’ and ‘thinness’ with ‘health’. Consequently, fat subjects become framed as lazy and not willing to follow a ‘healthy’ lifestyle. In neoliberal societies, where ‘the autonomous, self‐regulating individual’ is highly valued, the previous construction of fat subjects appears particularly damning. In this study, we explore how women who self‐identify as ‘large’ negotiate their body weight, health and neoliberal credentials. To this end, interviews were conducted with 18 women, and the transcripts were analysed using discourse analysis. The constructions of health and well‐being articulated by the women were much broader and more complex than those reproduced in dominant neoliberalised discourses of health and body weight. Although most participants positioned themselves as healthy and health literate, prevailing constructions of ‘fat is unhealthy’ were also reproduced, and participants often struggled with the conflicting subject positions of the healthy and health‐conscious ‘good neoliberal citizen’ and the fat ‘failed’ individual risking ill‐health. Drawing on our analysis, we assert that, regardless of who is right in debates about the putative health implication of fat, the current reductionist approach to health and the global ‘war on obesity’ are problematic and potentially harmful. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Synthesis and Antitumor Activity of New Retinobenzoic Acids
Authors: Khandare Reena P. , Vaze Kedar R. , Bhat Sujata V.
Published: May 2011

New retinobenzoic acid derivatives have been synthesized starting from 1,2,3,4‐tetrahydro‐1,1,2,4,4,6‐hexamethylnaphthalene and 1,1,2,3,3‐pentamethylindane. Four of the synthetic compounds displayed potent cytotoxic activities in vitro against human breast cancer and leukemic cell lines. Thus, these molecules can be further evaluated for the treatment of human leukemia and breast cancer.
New Cytotoxic Metabolites from a Deep‐Sea‐Derived Fungus, Phialocephala sp., Strain FL30r
Authors: Li De‐Hai , Cai Sheng‐Xin , Zhu Tian‐Jiao , Wang Feng‐Ping , Xiao Xiang , Gu Qian‐Qun
Published: May 2011

Two new sorbicillinoids, 1 and 2, together with a novel benzofuranone derivative named phialofurone (3), were isolated from a deep‐sea sediment‐derived fungus, Phialocephala sp. Their structures were established on the basis of spectroscopic data. All compounds displayed cytotoxic effects against P388 (IC50 values of 11.5±1.4, 0.1±0.1, and 0.2±0.01 μM, resp.) and K562 (IC50 values of 22.9±0.8, 4.8±0.3 and 22.4±0.9 μM, resp.) cell lines.
Essential Oils from Wild Populations of Algerian Lavandula stoechas L.: Composition, Chemical Variability, and in vitro Biological Properties
Authors: Benabdelkader Tarek , Zitouni Abdelghani , Guitton Yann , Jullien Frédéric , Maitre Dany , Casabianca Hervé , Legendre Laurent , Kameli Abdelkrim
Published: May 2011

In an effort to develop local productions of aromatic and medicinal plants, a comprehensive assessment of the composition and biological activities of the essential oils (EOs) extracted from the aerial flowering parts of wild growing Lavandula stoechas L. collected from eleven different locations in northern Algeria was performed. The oils were characterized by GC‐FID and GC/MS analyses, and 121 compounds were identified, accounting for 69.88–91.2% of the total oil compositions. The eleven oils greatly differed in their compositions, since only 66 compounds were common to all oils. Major EO components were fenchone (2; 11.27–37.48%), camphor (3, 1.94–21.8%), 1,8‐cineole (1; 0.16–8.71%), and viridiflorol (10; 2.89–7.38%). The assessed in vitro biological properties demonstrated that the DPPH‐based radical‐scavenging activities and the inhibition of the β‐carotene/linoleic acid‐based lipid oxidation differed by an eight‐fold factor between the most and the least active oils and were linked to different sets of molecules in the different EOs. The eleven EOs exhibited good antimicrobial activities against most of the 16 tested strains of bacteria, filamentous fungi, and yeasts, with minimum inhibitory concentrations (MICs) ranging from 0.16 to 11.90 mg/ml.