bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Dynamic characterization of rigid foam used in finite element sports ball simulations
Authors: Burbank Scott D , Smith Lloyd V
Published: April 2012

Numerical simulation of sport ball impacts is challenging due to the varied contact conditions involved and the difficulty in characterizing nonlinear materials at high strain rates. The following considers rigid polyurethane foam used in softballs. Past works have shown that load displacement curves from viscoelastic material models do not completely agree with experiment, suggesting incorrect mechanisms of compressive deformation. Additionally, dynamic testing using a pressure bar apparatus was unable to achieve strain rates low enough, and dynamic mechanical analysis was unable to achieve strain magnitudes large enough to represent play conditions.

A method was developed to impact polyurethane foam samples over a range of displacement rates and magnitudes representative of play conditions. A characteristic stress–strain loading curve of polyurethane foam was produced and incorporated into a finite element model. Comparison of instrumented and numerical impact properties produced agreeable results. The foam material model was then applied to a simulated softball which impacted surfaces of varying geometry. Results showed that the foam material model better predicted softball deformation mechanisms than previous linear–viscoelastic models both as a function of speed and surface geometry. Persistent discrepancies in rate dependence indicate a lack of complete characterization, however.
Finite element modelling and simulations for golf impact
Authors: Tanaka Katsumasa , Teranishi Yukihiro , Ujihashi Sadayuki
Published: April 2012

The objective of this study was to construct a finite element model of a golf ball and an impact simulation model between the ball and a club, and to devise a method for the construction of simulation models by investigating the factors affecting the behaviour of the ball during and after impact. A ball model with hyperelasticity and viscoelasticity was constructed using solid elements, and the relationship between the material properties and the ball behaviour at impact was revealed by varying several material constants of the ball model. A finite element model of a club with elasticity was created from a computer-aided design surface model of a commercially available driver. The club head and shaft were modelled using solid and shell elements, respectively. The effects of initial conditions at impact on the rebound behaviour of the ball, that is, the velocity, angle and spin rate, were investigated from impact simulations by varying the impact points of the ball and the postures of the club. Then, methods for the construction of simulation models were proposed based on these relationships. Impact experiments were also conducted to obtain the ball behaviour. The results simulated using the models, constructed by the proposed methods, closely matched the experimental results.
A causal relationship between sense of coherence and psycho-social work environment: from one-year follow-up data among Japanese young adult workers
Authors: Togari Taisuke , Yamazaki Yoshihiko
Published: April 2012

The aim of this study was to use longitudinal data and investigate by sex the following four hypotheses on the relationship between sense of coherence (SOC) and work environment (WE): (i) a bidirectional cause-effect relationship exists; (ii) WE is the cause and SOC is the effect; (iii) SOC is the cause and WE is the effect; and (iv) no cause-effect relationship exists. Male and female subjects between the ages of 20 and 40 living in Japan were selected as subjects by two-stage stratified random sampling, and self-administered questionnaires were sent by mail between January and March 2007 (Time 1). A follow-up was conducted in the same way from January to March of 2008 (Time 2). Responses were obtained from 3,965 individuals (follow-up ratio: 82.6%). This study analyzed 1,291 males and 933 females who were at least 25 years old at Time 1 and who worked the same job in both time periods. The analysis was performed using a cross-lagged model under structural equation modeling. The second hypothesis was selected for both males and females based on the outcome of nested model comparisons. That is, a temporal cause-effect relationship was observed between SOC and WE for both males and females, with WE as the cause and SOC as the effect.
Reflections on cultural diversity in oral health promotion and prevention
Authors: Riggs Elisha , van Gemert Caroline , Gussy Mark , Waters Elizabeth , Kilpatrick Nicky
Published: April 2012

Dental caries is an extremely debilitating disease with lifelong consequences. In most developed countries significant oral health inequalities exist in disadvantaged communities, including refugee and migrant populations. Addressing these inequalities is becoming increasingly challenging as communities become more culturally diverse. An awareness of traditional oral health practices would enable the dental and broader health professions, to understand these differences and consequently better meet the needs of disadvantaged communities. The use of miswak is a common traditional oral hygiene practice used by a number of culturally diverse groups. Further research is required into the use and effectiveness of traditional oral health practices within developed countries. Such practices need to be understood, respected and incorporated within oral health care, policies and practices in order to reduce significant inequalities experienced in our communities. This commentary describes the current literature on miswak, its effectiveness and the implications for promoting oral health.
Co-morbid substance use behaviors among youth: any impact of school environment?
Authors: Costello Mary Jean E. , Leatherdale Scott T. , Ahmed Rashid , Church Dana L. , Cunningham John A.
Published: April 2012

Background. Substance use is common among youth; however, our understanding of co-morbid tobacco, alcohol and marijuana use remains limited. The school-environment may play an important role in the likelihood a student engages in high risk substance use behaviors, including co-morbid use. Purpose. This study aims to: (i) describe the prevalence of co-morbid substance use behaviors among youth; (ii) identify and compare the characteristics of youth who currently use a single substance, any two substances, and all three substances; (iii) examine if the likelihood of co-morbid use varies by school and; (iv) examine what factors are associated with co-morbid use. Methods. This study used nationally representative data collected from students in grades 9 to 12 (n = 41,886) as part of the 2006-2007 Canadian Youth Smoking Survey (YSS). Demographic and behavioral data were collected including, current cigarette, alcohol and marijuana use. Results. 6.5% (n = 107,000) reported current use of all three substances and 20.3% (n = 333,000) of any two substances. Multi-level analysis revealed significant between school variability in the odds a student used all three substances and any two substances; accounting for 16.9% and 13.5% of the variability, respectively. Co-morbid use was associated with sex, grade, amount of available spending money and perceived academic performance. Conclusions. Co-morbid substance use is high among youth; however, not all schools share the same prevalence. Knowing the school characteristics that place particular schools at risk for student substance use is important for tailoring drug and alcohol education programs. Interventions that target the prevention of co-morbid substance use are required.
An Integrated Identification and Intervention Model for Intellectually Gifted Children
Authors: Wellisch Mimi , Brown Jac
Published: April 2012

Gifted children who do not achieve often have problems with motivation and socioemotional adjustment and may also have learning disabilities. This article examines factors such as attachment difficulties and maternal depression as these may contribute to underachievement. The article reviews past and current practices of gifted identification and argues that schools have an important role in the early identification of socioemotional problems and learning difficulties, as these can create barriers to learning and achievement. Although Gagné did include underachievers in his Differentiated Model of Giftedness and Talent, he has also argued that only achieving children should be included in academic talent development programs, and he supports a separate pathway for gifted underachievers. This article demonstrates that such a pathway can be achieved through an inclusive model for gifted achievers and underachievers. A model involves the early triaging of children through identification of giftedness, socioemotional problems, and learning difficulties.
The crucial role of lithospheric structure in the generation and release of carbonatites: geological evidence
Authors: Woolley A. R. , Bailey D. K.
Published: April 2012

A recent database and world distribution map of carbonatites supports previous observations of the spatial and temporal aspects of these rocks, and provides new observations that are important for understanding their petrogenesis. These data reveal that there is an overwhelming concentration of carbonatites in Precambrian cratonic areas, most of which are elevated topographically. Thus, although approximately two-thirds of carbonatites are Phanerozoic in age, at least 88% of all dated carbonatites are located in the cratons, demonstrating a remarkable tendency for a Precambrian host. This observation suggests a link with kimberlites as diamond-bearing kimberlites are confined to the Archaean areas of cratons. The age data show that in many carbonatite-bearing provinces there has been repetition of carbonatite emplacement, with up to five episodes separated by hundreds of millions of years. In at least three provinces such activity extends from the late Archaean to relatively recent times and, because of the drift of the plates, this would seem to preclude any direct role for mantle plumes in carbonatite genesis. Magmatism is activated when lithosphere lesions are reopened in response to major changes in global plate movement patterns.
Experimental study in the Na2O–CaO–MgO–Al2O3–SiO2–CO2 system at 3 GPa: the effect of sodium on mantle melting to carbonate-rich liquids and implications for the petrogenesis of silicocarbonatites
Authors: Moore K. R.
Published: April 2012

Melt compositions in equilibrium with peridotite assemblages were determined in the analogue system Na2O–CaO–MgO–Al2O3–SiO2–CO2 at 3 GPa with Ca/Ca + Mg = 0.56–0.43 and up to 6 wt.% Na2O. There is a greater compositional range generated isobarically over a larger temperature interval than in a sodium-absent system: increasing sodium content drives liquids to compositions with lower CaO and higher SiO2 concentrations. A positive correlation between silica and Na2O content of liquids produced at constant temperature is due to the depolymerization of silicate tetrahedra in the presence of monovalent cations, as in the volatile-free system. Liquids with Na2O >6 wt.% occur in association with wehrlites as the composition of diopsidic pyroxene expands towards enstatite with addition of Na2O, decreasing the orthopyroxene content of peridotite. The orthopyroxene-out curve intersects an enriched mantle solidus at 3 GPa where near-solidus liquids have Na2O = 7 1.5 wt.%. Sodium partitioning between a metaluminous liquid and clinopyroxene follows the jadeite partitioning models calculated for the dry silicate system but sodium partitions into peralkaline carbonated liquids as both the pyroxene and the carbonate molecules. The peralkaline liquids generated are essentially carbonated silicate melts that are analogous to silica-bearing carbonatites and silicocarbonatites from a range of possible metasomatized mantle sources.
A mantle-derived dolomite silicocarbonatite from the southwest coast of Ireland
Authors: Brady A. E. , Moore K. R.
Published: April 2012

The magma source and evolution of a zoned breccia pipe on the southern Beara Peninsula in southwest Ireland are investigated using the geochemistry of the host mineral assemblages. The clast-poor inner zone of the pipe has a magnesium-rich silicocarbonatite whole-rock composition (14.30 wt.% MgO; 31.80 wt.% SiO2). The silicocarbonatite has retained an ultimate mantle source 13C isotopic composition after metamorphism, consistent with the presence of mantle debris. The silicocarbonatite is Cr-, Ni- and Co-rich (847 ppm, 611 ppm and 60 ppm, respectively) but REE depleted compared with volcanic dolomite carbonatites worldwide. The mineral assemblage consists of Sr-rich (0.55 wt.% SrO) ferroan dolomite, magnesite and pseudomorphs of chlorite after phlogopite, consistent with derivation from a carbonated and hydrated mantle. However, chrome spinel crystals (≤4 40.14 wt.% Cr2O3) are compositionally indistinguishable from unmetasomatized spinel macrocrysts in kimberlites. The silicocarbonatite is inferred to represent a magma produced by partial melting of metasomatized mantle at physical conditions between those in which primary dolomite carbonatite and ultramafic magmas of high-pressure origin form. The primary silicocarbonatite magma ascended and sampled mantle material in a manner similar to kimberlite, and subsequently lost volatile components due to release of metasomatic fluids and later metamorphism.
Fitness of Escherichia coli strains carrying expressed and partially silent IncN and IncP1 plasmids
Authors: Humphrey Bruce , Thomson Nicholas R , Thomas Christopher M , Brooks Karen , Sanders Mandy , Delsol Anne A , Roe John M , Bennett Peter M , Enne Virve I
Published: April 2012

Background

Understanding the survival of resistance plasmids in the absence of selective pressure for the antibiotic resistance genes they carry is important for assessing the value of interventions to combat resistant bacteria. Here, several poorly explored questions regarding the fitness impact of IncP1 and IncN broad host range plasmids on their bacterial hosts are examined; namely, whether related plasmids have similar fitness impacts, whether this varies according to host genetic background, and what effect antimicrobial resistance gene silencing has on fitness.

Results

For the IncP1 group pairwise in vitro growth competition demonstrated that the fitness cost of plasmid RP1 depends on the host strain. For the IncN group, plasmids R46 and N3 whose sequence is presented for the first time conferred remarkably different fitness costs despite sharing closely related backbone structures, implicating the accessory genes in fitness. Silencing of antimicrobial resistance genes was found to be beneficial for host fitness with RP1 but not for IncN plasmid pVE46.

Conclusions

These findings suggest that the fitness impact of a given plasmid on its host cannot be inferred from results obtained with other host-plasmid combinations, even if these are closely related.
An EST-based analysis identifies new genes and reveals distinctive gene expression features of Coffea arabica and Coffea canephora
Authors: Mondego Jorge MC , Vidal Ramon O , Carazzolle Marcelo F , Tokuda Eric K , Parizzi Lucas P , Costa Gustavo GL , Pereira Luiz FP , Andrade Alan C , Colombo Carlos A , Vieira Luiz GE , Pereira Gonçalo AG ,   Brazilian Coffee Genome Project Consortium
Published: April 2012

Background

Coffee is one of the world's most important crops; it is consumed worldwide and plays a significant role in the economy of producing countries.Coffea arabicaandC. canephoraare responsible for 70 and 30% of commercial production, respectively.C. arabicais an allotetraploid from a recent hybridization of the diploid species,C. canephoraandC. eugenioides.C. arabicahas lower genetic diversity and results in a higher quality beverage thanC. canephora. Research initiatives have been launched to produce genomic and transcriptomic data aboutCoffeaspp. as a strategy to improve breeding efficiency.

Results

Assembling the expressed sequence tags (ESTs) ofC. arabicaandC. canephoraproduced by the Brazilian Coffee Genome Project and the Nestlé-Cornell Consortium revealed 32,007 clusters ofC. arabicaand 16,665 clusters ofC. canephora. We detected different GC3 profiles between these species that are related to their genome structure and mating system. BLAST analysis revealed similarities between coffee and grape (Vitis vinifera) genes. Using KA/KS analysis, we identified coffee genes under purifying and positive selection. Protein domain and gene ontology analyses suggested differences betweenCoffeaspp. data, mainly in relation to complex sugar synthases and nucleotide binding proteins. OrthoMCL was used to identify specific and prevalent coffee protein families when compared to five other plant species. Among the interesting families annotated are new cystatins, glycine-rich proteins and RALF-like peptides. Hierarchical clustering was used to independently groupC. arabicaandC. canephoraexpression clusters according to expression data extracted from EST libraries, resulting in the identification of differentially expressed genes. Based on these results, we emphasize gene annotation and discuss plant defenses, abiotic stress and cup quality-related functional categories.

Conclusion

We present the first comprehensive genome-wide transcript profile study ofC. arabicaandC. canephora, which can be freely assessed by the scientific community athttp://www.lge.ibi.unicamp.br/coffea. Our data reveal the presence of species-specific/prevalent genes in coffee that may help to explain particular characteristics of these two crops. The identification of differentially expressed transcripts offers a starting point for the correlation between gene expression profiles andCoffeaspp. developmental traits, providing valuable insights for coffee breeding and biotechnology, especially concerning sugar metabolism and stress tolerance.
Ethnomedicine of the Kagera Region, north western Tanzania. Part 3: plants used in traditional medicine in Kikuku village, Muleba District
Authors: Moshi Mainen J , Otieno Donald F , Weisheit Anke
Published: April 2012

Background

The Kagera region of north western Tanzania has a rich culture of traditional medicine use and practice. Traditional medicines are the mainstay of healthcare in this region and are known to support the management of many illnesses such as malaria, bacterial infections, epilepsy, gynecological problems and others. However, most of the plants being used have either not been documented or evaluated for safety and efficacy or both. This study, the sixth of an ongoing series, reports on the medicinal plants that are used at Kikuku village, Muleba District.

Methodology

A semi-structured questionnaire was used to collect information on the common/local names of the plants, parts of the plants used, diseases treated, methods of preparing the herbal remedies, dosage of the remedies administered, frequency and duration of treatment and toxicity of the medicines. A literature review was carried out for information on the ethnomedical uses of the reported plants.

Results

A total of 49 plant species belonging to 47 genera and 24 plant families were documented. The family Euphorbiaceae and Asteraceae had the highest representation. The plants are used for the treatment of skin conditions (10 plants; 20%), bacterial infections and wounds (14 plants; 28.6%), malaria (14 plants; 28.6%), gastrointestinal disorders (11 plants; 22.4%), gynecological problems including infertility (8 plants; 16.3%), hypertension (5 plants; 10.2%), viral infections (7 plants; 14.3%), chest problems (5 plants; 10.2%), diabetes (3 plants; 6.1%), cancer (2 plants; 4.1%), inflammatory conditions (arthritis, rheumatism), HIV and AIDS, and hernia each treated by 1 plant (3 plants in total; 6.1%). Information obtained from the literature indicate that 25 (51.0%) of the therapeutic claims are supported by laboratory results or have similar claims of ethnomedical use from other countries.

Conclusion

Herbal remedies comprise an important and effective component of the healthcare system in Kikuku village with plants in the families Euphorbiaceae and Asteraceae comprising an important part of plants used in the indigenous healthcare management in the village. Malaria and bacterial infections dominate the list of diseases that are managed using traditional medicines.
Genome-scale metabolic reconstructions of Pichia stipitis and Pichia pastoris and in silico evaluation of their potentials
Authors: Caspeta Luis , Shoaie Saeed , Agren Rasmus , Nookaew Intawat , Nielsen Jens
Published: April 2012

Background

Pichia stipitis and Pichia pastoris have long been investigated due to their native abilities to metabolize every sugar from lignocellulose and to modulate methanol consumption, respectively. The latter has been driving the production of several recombinant proteins. As a result, significant advances in their biochemical knowledge, as well as in genetic engineering and fermentation methods have been generated. The release of their genome sequences has allowed systems level research.

Results

In this work, genome-scale metabolic models (GEMs) of P. stipitis (iSS884) and P. pastoris (iLC915) were reconstructed. iSS884 includes 1332 reactions, 922 metabolites, and 4 compartments. iLC915 contains 1423 reactions, 899 metabolites, and 7 compartments. Compared with the previous GEMs of P. pastoris, PpaMBEL1254 and iPP668, iLC915 contains more genes and metabolic functions, as well as improved predictive capabilities. Simulations of physiological responses for the growth of both yeasts on selected carbon sources using iSS884 and iLC915 closely reproduced the experimental data. Additionally, the iSS884 model was used to predict ethanol production from xylose at different oxygen uptake rates. Simulations with iLC915 closely reproduced the effect of oxygen uptake rate on physiological states of P. pastoris expressing a recombinant protein. The potential of P. stipitis for the conversion of xylose and glucose into ethanol using reactors in series, and of P. pastoris to produce recombinant proteins using mixtures of methanol and glycerol or sorbitol are also discussed.

Conclusions

In conclusion the first GEM of P. stipitis (iSS884) was reconstructed and validated. The expanded version of the P. pastoris GEM, iLC915, is more complete and has improved capabilities over the existing models. Both GEMs are useful frameworks to explore the versatility of these yeasts and to capitalize on their biotechnological potentials.
Of Unexplained Presences, Flying Ife Heads, Vampires, Sweat, Zombies, and Legbas
Authors: Lara Ana-Maurine
Published: April 2012

This review, a meditation, considers how two multigenre arts events, DASH (Austin, Texas; October 2009) and the Ghetto Biennale (Port-au-Prince, Haiti; December 2009), when considered side by side, present the material and theoretical terms for articulating black queer aesthetics. These black queer aesthetics, rather than a static set of signifiers, emerge as practices and imaginings that engage and interweave multiple notions of time, material realities, and the specificities of space (bodies, locations, geographies), including afro-futurism, afro-spiritual sensibilities and practices, waste (“refusé”), and sexuality.
The MARVEL transmembrane motif of occludin mediates oligomerization and targeting to the basolateral surface in epithelia
Authors: Yaffe Yakey , Shepshelovitch Jeanne , Nevo-Yassaf Inbar , Yeheskel Adva , Shmerling Hedva , Kwiatek Joanna M. , Gaus Katharina , Pasmanik-Chor Metsada , Hirschberg Koret
Published: April 2012

Occludin (Ocln), a MARVEL-motif-containing protein, is found in all tight junctions. MARVEL motifs are comprised of four transmembrane helices associated with the localization to or formation of diverse membrane subdomains by interacting with the proximal lipid environment. The functions of the Ocln MARVEL motif are unknown. Bioinformatics sequence- and structure-based analyses demonstrated that the MARVEL domain of Ocln family proteins has distinct evolutionarily conserved sequence features that are consistent with its basolateral membrane localization. Live-cell microscopy, fluorescence resonance energy transfer (FRET) and bimolecular fluorescence complementation (BiFC) were used to analyze the intracellular distribution and self-association of fluorescent-protein-tagged full-length human Ocln or the Ocln MARVEL motif excluding the cytosolic C- and N-termini (amino acids 60–269, FP-MARVEL-Ocln). FP-MARVEL-Ocln efficiently arrived at the plasma membrane (PM) and was sorted to the basolateral PM in filter-grown polarized MDCK cells. A series of conserved aromatic amino acids within the MARVEL domain were found to be associated with Ocln dimerization using BiFC. FP-MARVEL-Ocln inhibited membrane pore growth during Triton-X-100-induced solubilization and was shown to increase the membrane-ordered state using Laurdan, a lipid dye. These data demonstrate that the Ocln MARVEL domain mediates self-association and correct sorting to the basolateral membrane.
Fetal outcome of antepartum and intrapartum eclampsia in Aba, southeastern Nigeria
Authors: Onyearugha Chukwuemeka N , Ugboma Henry A A
Published: April 2012

The objective of this study was to evaluate the fetal outcome of antepartum and intrapartum eclampsia. All cases of antepartum and intrapartum eclampsia managed at the Abia State University Teaching Hospital, Aba, Nigeria, between 1 January 2002 and 31 December 2007 were retrospectively analysed. Of the women who were delivered in our hospital over the period studied, 0.80% had ante- or intrapartum eclampsia which started mostly outside the hospital: 85.4% were unbooked; 62.5% nulliparous; and 62.5% aged less than 30 years. Forty-eight babies were delivered by the eclamptic mothers. All of the fetuses were delivered in the last trimester: 68.8% of the fetuses were preterm; and 58.7% had a low birthweight. Stillbirths occurred in 60.4%; 8.3% suffered severe birth asphyxia; and 70.9% were delivered vaginally. Sustained education of pregnant women on the need for early booking and regular antenatal visits is recommended.
Human–animal anthrax outbreak in the Luangwa valley of Zambia in 2011
Authors: Hang'ombe Mudenda B , Mwansa James C L , Muwowo Sergio , Mulenga Phillip , Kapina Muzala , Musenga Eric , Squarre David , Mataa Liywali , Thomas Suzuki Y , Ogawa Hirohito , Sawa Hirofumi , Higashi Hideaki
Published: April 2012

There has been a reduction of incidences of anthrax in the developed countries but it is still a public health problem in the developing countries where communities live in interface areas with wildlife. An outbreak of anthrax in Hippopotamus amphibious was observed in Zambia. Following the death of hippopotamuses, suspected human cases were reported. The objective of this study was to isolate and confirm Bacillus anthracis and to determine the antimicrobial susceptibility for the management of the disease. Of the specimens collected, 29.4% (95% confidence interval [CI], 11.4–56.0) were from humans, 42.1% (95% CI, 21.1–66.0) were from hippopotamuses and 20.0% (95% CI, 6.61–44.3) from the soil were found to be positive were for B. anthracis. An antimicrobial susceptibility test revealed that all the isolates were found to be sensitive to the recommended antibiotics. The disease control was achieved by case management and by explaining to the communities that they should avoid contact with animals that die from unknown causes.
Scrub typhus and leptospirosis co-infection in Himalayan region
Authors: Mahajan Sanjay K , Babu NM Sharath , Singh Digvijay , Kanga Anil , Kaushal Satinder S
Published: April 2012

Scrub typhus and leptospirosis are both zoonosis and systemic febrile illnesses with diverse clinical manifestations and they may present with similar signs and symptoms. We present a case of co-infection of scrub typhus and leptospirosis from Himachal Pradesh in the Himalayan region of India.
Estimating Bridge Fundamental Frequency from Vibration Response of Instrumented Passing Vehicle: Analytical and Experimental Study
Authors: Siringoringo Dionysius M. , Fujino Yozo
Published: April 2012

Driving velocity, natural frequency of vehicle and natural frequency of bridge are the main contributing factors to vibration of a vehicle when passing a bridge. By separating contributions of the first two factors, one can estimate the natural frequency of a bridge indirectly from vehicle acceleration response when it crosses a bridge. In this paper, we apply this concept to estimate the bridge fundamental frequency indirectly using the response of a passing instrumented vehicle. The paper first describes analytical formulation and finite element simulation to demonstrate the feasibility of the method. Afterwards, it describes an experimental verification as a proof-of-concept of the method on a full-scale simply-supported short span bridge by using a light commercial vehicle instrumented with accelerometer. Dynamic responses of the vehicle while passing the bridge are recorded and analyzed. Spectra analysis of the vehicle responses reveal that the first natural frequency of the bridge can be estimated with reasonable accuracy when the vehicle moves with constant velocity. The concept of indirect frequency estimation is useful for assessment of short and medium span bridges where permanent instrumentation and routine visual inspection can be too costly. In this method, one can use inspection vehicle instrumented with vibration sensor to conduct periodic measurements by passing the vehicle over several monitored bridges and estimate their fundamental frequencies. When significant change in frequency is detected, detail inspections can be further conducted to investigate the possible damage on the bridge.
Cradle to Cradle Product Certification A Revolution in Product Innovation
Authors: Luther Bridgett
Published: April 2012

Cradle to Cradle certification is the roadmap for moving companies ahead of the constantly evolving regulatory process, for transforming retailers into agents of restorative change, and for shifting certification from a marketing exercise to a core business strategy. Here we focus on the decade of work done with companies through the certification process to spur innovation, disseminate best practices, and promote healthy alternatives to business as usual. We define Cradle to Cradle principles and certification, explain why these are important, offer details about the certification process, and list examples from companies working to use Cradle to Cradle (C2C) principles to create new products and materials. Specific detail about certification will be given in the areas of: material health, material reutilization, energy, water stewardship, and social responsibility.
Teaching Technologists Sustainable Innovation
Authors: Desai Raj
Published: April 2012

The best way to equip students with the skills to lead and thrive in a global economy is to teach innovation, entrepreneurship and leadership, and make them aware of sustainability. Students can develop the skills to identify and capitalize on new business opportunities through an active learning process. Universities provide students with the knowledge, and serve as the fuel for innovation and entrepreneurship [1]. Problem solving develops complex thinking ability in the students [2]. This is becoming increasingly critical as in many industries technological innovation is now the most important driver for competitive success. Global competition has also put pressure on the firms to continuously innovate [3]. There is also a need to continuously challenge given this the students need to think about building a sustainable society. An increased focus on sustainability will promote meeting the needs of the current generation without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their needs [4].
Task Bubbles, Artifacts, Shared Emotion, and Mutual Focus of Attention: A Comparative Study of the Microprocesses of Group Engagement
Authors: Metiu Anca , Rothbard Nancy P.
Published: April 2012

Based on a comparative field study of two software development projects, we use ethnographic methods of observation and interview to examine the question of how interdependent individuals develop and maintain mutual focus of attention on a shared task, which we define as the group engagement process. Drawing on Randall Collins' interaction ritual theory, we identify how mutual focus of attention develops through the presence of a task bubble that focuses attention by creating barriers to outsiders and through the effective use of task-related artifacts. Shared emotion both results from mutual focus of attention and reinforces it. Through our comparison between the two projects, we show that the group engagement process is enabled by factors at the individual (individual engagement), interaction (frequency and informality of interactions), and project (compelling direction of the overall group) levels. Our focus on group interaction episodes as the engine of the group engagement process illuminates what individuals do when they are performing the focal work of the group (i.e., solving problems related to the task at hand) and how they develop and sustain the mutual focus of attention that is required for making collective progress on the task itself. We also show the relationship between the group engagement process and effective problem solving.
The impact of routine histopathological examination on cholecystectomy specimens from an Asian demographic
Authors: Chin KF , Mohammad AA , Khoo YY , Krishnasamy T
Published: April 2012

INTRODUCTION

Most gallbladder carcinoma cases are suspected pre-operatively or intra-operatively. In Malaysia histopathological examination of cholecystectomy specimens has become routine practice. The aim of this study was to assess the impact of routine histological examinations on cholecystectomy specimens from an Asian demographic, which may differ from a Caucasian demographic.

METHODS

A retrospective study was performed of all histopathoiogy reports for choiecystectomies (Iaparoscopic and open) undertaken over a period of 12 years (1997-2008) in a single teaching hospital.

RESULTS

A total of 1,375 gallbladder specimens were sent for histopathological analysis, with 7 (0.5%) being reported as malignant while only three (0.2%) were found to contain primary gallbladder carcinoma. Other premalignant findings included two specimens with dyspiastic changes of the mucosa and one tubuioviiious adenoma with a dyspiastic epithelium. From the ten malignant and premalignant specimens, seven were diagnosed pre-operatively, two were suspected intra-operatively and one was diagnosed with dyspiastic changes on the histopathoiogy report post-operatively.

CONCLUSIONS

This study supports earlier research carried out in the UK and the demographic difference does not affect the impact of the histology examination on cholecystectomy specimens in diagnosing this disease. A selective policy is recommended in Malaysia.
Bilateral pisotriquetral loose bodies
Authors: Williams GR , Holland P , Beazley J , Hyder N
Published: April 2012

Case reports detailing diagnosis and effective treatment of pisotriquetral loose bodies are scarce. This article describes an even rarer case of bilateral pisotriquetral joint loose bodies, explores the relative diagnostic roles of magnetic resonance imaging versus computed tomography, and outlines effective strategies used for the management of this condition drawn from the literature and our own experience.
What is the role of minimally invasive surgery in a fast track hip and knee replacement pathway?
Authors: Lloyd JM , Wainwright T , Middleton RG
Published: April 2012

Introduction

Minimally invasive hip and knee replacement surgery (MIS) continues to receive coverage in both the popular press and scientific literature. The cited benefits include a smaller scar, less soft tissue trauma, faster recovery, reduced hospital stay, decreased blood loss and reduced post-operative pain. These outcomes are highly desirable and consistent with the aims of fast track hip and knee pathways. This paper evaluates the literature and discusses whether performing MIS over conventional surgical techniques offers advantages in a fast track hip and knee pathway.

Methods

An English language literature search was performed using the MEDLINE® and PubMed databases. Case series, randomised controlled trials and systematic reviews were included in the review.

Results

The reported improvements in recovery brought about by MIS must be considered multifactorial. In combination with improved clinical pathways, MIS can be associated with quicker recovery and shorter length of hospital stay.

Conclusions

There is insufficient evidence to indicate that surgical technique alone makes a significant difference to recovery or reduces soft tissue trauma. No consensus on whether to use MIS techniques in fast track hip and knee replacement pathways can therefore be drawn. This is especially important given that the complication rates of MIS in the low to medium volume surgeon appear unacceptably high compared with standard approaches. It is also too early to assess the long-term effects of MIS on implant survival.
Adjusting Eptifibatide Doses for Renal Impairment: A Model of Dosing Agreement Among Various Methods of Estimating Creatinine Clearance
Authors: Healy Martha F , Speroni Karen Gabel , Eugenio Kenneth R , Murphy Patricia M
Published: April 2012

Background:

Because of the renal elimination and increased risk for bleeding events at supratherapeutic doses of eptifibatide, the manufacturer recommends dosing adjustment in patients with renal dysfunction. Methods commonly used to estimate renal dysfunction in hospital settings may be inconsistent with those studied and recommended by the manufacturer

Objective:

To compare hypothetical renal dosing adjustments of eptifibatide using both the recommended method and several other commonly used formulas for estimating kidney function.

Methods:

Sex, age, weight, height, serum creatinine, and estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) were obtained retrospectively from the records of patients who received eptifibatide during a 12-month period. Renal dosing decisions were determined for each patient based on creatinine clearance (CrCI) estimates via the Cockcroft-Gault formula (CG) with actual body weight (ABW), ideal body weight (IBW) or adjusted weight (ADJW), and eGFR from the Modification of Diet in Renal Disease formula. Percent agreement and Cohen κ were calculated comparing dosing decisions for each formula to the standard CG-ABW.

Results:

In this analysis of 179 patients, percent agreement as compared to CG-ABW varied (CG-IBW: 90.50%, CG-ADJW: 95.53%, and eGFR: 93.30%). All κ coefficients were categorized as good. In the 20% of patients receiving an adjusted dose by any of the methods, 68.6% could have received a dose different from that determined using the CG-ABW formula.

Conclusions:

In the patients with renal impairment (CrCI <50 mL/min) in this study, two thirds would have received an unnecessary 50% dose adjustment discordant from the manufacturer's recommendation. Because failure to adjust eptifibatide doses in patients with renal impairment has led to increased bleeding events, practitioners may be inclined to err on the side of caution. However, studies have shown that suboptimal doses of eptifibatide lead to suboptimal outcomes. Therefore, correct dosing of eptifibatide is important to both patient safety and efficacy.
Mineral Compositional Trends and Their Correlations with Petrophysical and Well-Logging Parameters Revealed by Quanta + Bestmin Analysis: Miocene of the Carpathian Foredeep, Poland
Authors: Środoń Jan , Kawiak Tadeusz
Published: April 2012

This study uses the data from Miocene rocks of the Carpathian Foredeep to test the performance of the computer programs QUANTA and BESTMIN in aiding the interpretation of geophysical log data. These programs were designed to help trace trends in the mineral composition of rocks, the chemical composition of minerals, and the effects of these data on petrophysical and geophysical logging parameters. Chemical and X-ray diffraction data for 65 samples of shales, sandstones, and carbonates taken from cored wells in the molasse basin of the Carpathian Foredeep were processed. Compositional differences were detected between rocks sourced from the platform and rocks sourced from the Carpathians. Quartz, K-feldspar, and zircon were more abundant in the coarse-grained rocks (sandstones), while calcite, ankerite, siderite, pyrite, barite, halite, celestite, apatite, anatase, chlorite, 2:1 minerals, and organic matter were more abundant in the fine-grained rocks (shales). Plagioclase reached its maximum in coarse shales. Ankerite, chlorite, and dioctahedral 2:1 minerals had more Fe in the coarse-grained rocks. The dioctahedral 2:1 minerals in fine-grained rocks had a greater concentration of smectitic layers. This information permitted the precise calculation of grain density, porosity, adsorbed water, and some geophysical logging parameters. It also permitted the calibration of well-log response, in particular, the macroscopic neutron absorption cross-section (Σa) combined with the photoelectric absorption factor (P{e}) or with Pe + Ca (calcium content, measurable in wells by spectroscopic techniques) with porosity and cation exchange capacity (CEC). The NaCl concentration in the pore waters was found to range from the values typical for seawater in shales to the freshwater level in clean sandstones.
Singularity and specificity: Writing on art
Authors: Koestlé-Cate Jonathan
Published: April 2012

A given for art writing today is the necessity of contextualization. This assumption is put to the test when the singularity of a work of art is privileged over its specificity. If the latter infers a context-directed situation in which a cultural object, event or situation is determined
by the conditions of its appearance in a particular context, and in which it is invariably subject to certain predominant, context-specific models of interpretation, the former denotes a model whereby a cultural object, event or situation creates its own conditions of reception and establishes
its own interpretative frameworks. Art writing that works with a model of singularity does not deny the importance of context, but downplays its influence by privileging the agency of the work of art. This becomes problematic for art criticism when the context appears to play more of a determining
role than usual. Such a situation is raised whenever contemporary art enters the church, revealing certain refusals and strategies of avoidance within the secular art press.
Age-Dependent Rescue by Simvastatin of Alzheimer's Disease Cerebrovascular and Memory Deficits
Authors: Tong Xin-Kang , Lecrux Clotilde , Hamel Edith
Published: April 2012

Alzheimer's disease (AD) is now established as a progressive compromise not only of the neurons but also of the cerebral vasculature. Increasing evidence also indicates that cerebrovascular dysfunction may be a key or an aggravating pathogenic factor in AD, emphasizing the importance to properly control this deficit when aiming for effective therapy. Here, we report that simvastatin (3–6 months, 40 mg/kg/d) completely rescued cerebrovascular reactivity, basal endothelial nitric oxide synthesis, and activity-induced neurometabolic and neurovascular coupling in adult (6 months) and aged (12 months) transgenic mice overexpressing the Swedish and Indiana mutations of the human amyloid precursor protein (AD mice). Remarkably, simvastatin fully restored short- and long-term memory in adult, but not in aged AD mice. These beneficial effects occurred without any decreasing effect of simvastatin on brain amyloid-β (Aβ) levels or plaque load. However, in AD mice with recovered memory, protein levels of the learning- and memory-related immediate early genes c-Fos and Egr-1 were normalized or upregulated in hippocampal CA1 neurons, indicative of restored neuronal function. In contrast, the levels of phospholipase A2, enkephalin, PSD-95, synaptophysin, or glutamate NMDA receptor subunit type 2B were either unaltered in AD mice or unaffected by treatment. These findings disclose new sites of action for statins against Aβ-induced neuronal and cerebrovascular deficits that could be predictive of therapeutic benefit in AD patients. They further indicate that simvastatin and, possibly, other brain penetrant statins bear high therapeutic promise in early AD and in patients with vascular diseases who are at risk of developing AD.
Eye-Specific Projections of Retinogeniculate Axons Are Altered in Albino Mice
Authors: Rebsam Alexandra , Bhansali Punita , Mason Carol A.
Published: April 2012

The divergence of retinal ganglion cell (RGC) axons into ipsilateral and contralateral projections at the optic chiasm and the subsequent segregation of retinal inputs into eye-specific domains in their target, the dorsal lateral geniculate nucleus (dLGN), are crucial for binocular vision. In albinism, affected individuals exhibit a lack or reduction of pigmentation in the eye and skin, a concomitant reduced ipsilateral projection, and diverse visual defects. Here we investigate how such altered decussation affects eye-specific retinogeniculate targeting in albino mice using the C57BL/6Tyrc-2J/c-2Jstrain, in which tyrosinase, necessary for melanogenesis, is mutated. In albino mice, fewer RGCs from the ventrotemporal (VT) retina project ipsilaterally, reflected in a decrease in cells expressing ipsilateral markers. In addition, a population of RGCs from the VT retina projects contralaterally and, within the dLGN, their axons cluster into a patch separated from the contralateral termination area. Furthermore, eye-specific segregation is not complete in the albino dLGN and, upon perturbing postnatal retinal activity with epibatidine, the ipsilateral projection fragments and the aberrant contralateral patch disappears. These results suggest that the defects in afferent targeting and activity-dependent refinement in the albino dLGN arise from RGC misspecification together with potential perturbations of early activity patterns in the albino retina.
Iron Efflux from Astrocytes Plays a Role in Remyelination
Authors: Schulz Katrin , Kroner Antje , David Samuel
Published: April 2012

How iron is delivered to the CNS for myelination is not well understood. We assessed whether astrocytes can provide iron to cells in the CNS for remyelination. To study this we generated a conditional deletion of the iron efflux transporterferroportin(Fpn) in astrocytes, and induced focal demyelination in the mouse spinal cord dorsal column by microinjection of lysophosphatidylcholine (LPC). Remyelination assessed by electron microscopy was reduced in astrocyte-specificFpnknock-out mice compared with wild-type controls, as was proliferation of oligodendrocyte precursor cells (OPCs). Cell culture work showed that lack of iron reduces the ability of microglia to express cytokines (TNF-α and IL-1β) involved in remyelination. Furthermore, astrocytes in culture express high levels of FGF-2 in response to IL-1β, and IGF-1 in response to TNF-α stimulation. FGF-2 and IGF-1 are known to be important for myelination. Reduction in IL-1β and IGF-1 were also seen in astrocyte-specificFpnknock-out mice after LPC-induced demyelination. These data suggest that iron efflux from astrocytes plays a role in remyelination by either direct effects on OPCs or indirectly by affecting glial activation.