bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
“Now My Eyes Have Seen You”: A Comparative Study of Secret Sunshine and the Book of Job
Authors: Ng Teng-Kuan
Published: July 2011

Abstract:

This essay engages in a comparative study of Lee Chang-Dong's Secret Sunshine (2007) in light of the biblical book of Job, focusing on issues of grief, recovery, and theodicy. Drawing from perspectives in philosophical, mystical, and pastoral theology, three allegorical interpretations of the film's title are suggested. The eponymous “secret sunshine” adumbrates, first, the female protagonist Shin-Ae's hidden journey toward her true self, a self in which the theological virtues of faith and love are mystically internalized. Second, it intimates the quiet, unobtrusive presence of an emphatic Immanuel in the figure of Jong-Chan, the film's male protagonist. Finally, through a meditative exegesis of the film's closing sequences, it will be argued that “secret sunshine” points toward the transcendent beauty and comfort that may be found in the quotidian and commonplace.
Evaluating the Effect of Warm-Mix Asphalt Technologies on Moisture Characteristics of Asphalt Binders and Mixtures
Authors: Mogawer Walaa S. , Austerman Alexander J. , Bahia Hussain U.
Published: July 2011

The effect of warm-mix asphalt (WMA) technologies on the moisture susceptibility of a mixture and the adhesion characteristics of the asphalt binder used in it was evaluated. A 9.5-mm Superpave® mixture designed with performance-grade asphalt PG 64-22 was used as the control mixture. Four types of WMA technologies were evaluated: Advera, Evotherm, Sasobit, and SonneWarmix. The Hamburg wheel-tracking device (HWTD) was used to evaluate the effect of each WMA technology on the moisture susceptibility of the mixture at three aging times and three aging temperatures. A liquid antistrip and hydrated lime were added to any mixture that failed the HWTD to determine if they could correct the failure. Because the moisture susceptibility of a mixture is related to failure in the adhesive bond between the binder and the aggregate, a pulloff test, the bitumen bond strength (BBS) test, was used to evaluate the impact of the WMA technologies on the adhesion characteristics of the asphalt binder. The HWTD test results indicated that the moisture resistances of all mixtures improved significantly with an increase in aging time or temperature. Mixtures aged at longer times and at higher aging temperatures exhibited the best performance. The addition of the antistrip agents improved the HWTD results. The BBS test showed that only Sasobit had a significant effect on the pull-off tensile strength of the binder, although only under dry conditions. Overall, no correlation between the BBS and the HWTD was found.
Cervical sagittal plane decompensation after surgery for adolescent idiopathic scoliosis: an effect imparted by postoperative thoracic hypokyphosis
Authors: Hwang Steven W. , Samdani Amer F. , Tantorski Mark , Cahill Patrick , Nydick Jason , Fine Anthony , Betz Randal R. , Antonacci M. Darryl
Published: July 2011

Object

Several studies have characterized the relationship among postoperative thoracic, lumbar, and pelvic alignment in the sagittal plane. However, little is known of the relationship between postoperative thoracic kyphosis and sagittal cervical alignment in patients with adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS) treated with all pedicle screw constructs. The authors examined this relationship and associated factors.

Methods

A prospective database of pediatric patients with AIS undergoing spinal fusion between 2003 and 2005 was reviewed for those who received predominantly pedicle screw constructs for Lenke Type 1 or Type 2 curves. Parameters analyzed on pre- and postoperative radiographs were the fusion levels; cervical, thoracic, and lumbar sagittal balance; and C-2 and C-7 plumb lines.

Results

Preoperatively, 6 (Group A) of the 22 patients included in the study had frank cervical kyphosis (mean angle 13.0°) with mean associated thoracic kyphosis of 27.2° (range 16°–37°). Postoperatively, cervical kyphosis (13.0°) remained in the patients in Group A along with mean thoracic kyphosis of 17.7° (range 4°–26°, p < 0.05). Preoperatively, the remaining 16 of 22 patients had neutral to lordotic cervical alignment (mean −13.8°) with thoracic kyphosis (mean 45°, range 30°–76°). Postoperatively, 8 (Group B) of these 16 patients demonstrated cervical sagittal decompensation (> 5° kyphosis), with 6 showing frank cervical kyphosis (10.5°, p < 0.05). In Group B, the mean postoperative thoracic kyphosis was 25.6° (range 7°–49°, p < 0.05). The other 8 patients (Group C) had mean postoperative thoracic kyphosis of 44.1° (range 32°–65°), and there was no cervical decompensation (p < 0.05).

Conclusions

The sagittal profile of the thoracic spine is related to that of the cervical spine. The surgical treatment of Lenke Type 1 and 2 curves by using all pedicle screw constructs has a significant hypokyphotic effect on thoracic sagittal plane alignment (19 [86%] of 22 patients). If postoperative thoracic kyphosis is excessively decreased (mean 25.6°, p < 0.05), the cervical spine may decompensate into significant kyphosis.
Spinal extradural arteriovenous fistulas: a clinical and radiological description of different types and their novel treatment with Onyx
Authors: Rangel-Castilla Leonardo , Holman Paul J. , Krishna Chandan , Trask Todd W. , Klucznik Richard P. , Diaz Orlando M.
Published: July 2011

Object

Spinal extradural (epidural) arteriovenous fistulas (AVFs) are uncommon vascular lesions of the spine with arteriovenous shunting located primarily in the epidural venous plexus. Understanding the complex anatomical variations of these uncommon lesions is important for management. The authors describe the different types of spinal extradural AVFs and their endovascular management using Onyx.

Methods

Eight spinal extradural AVFs in 7 patients were studied using MR imaging, spinal angiography, and dynamic CT (DynaCT) between 2005 and 2009. Special consideration was given to the anatomy, pattern of venous drainage, and mass effect upon the nerve roots, spinal cord, and vertebrae.

Results

The neuroaxial location of the 8 spinal extradural AVFs was lumbosacral in 1 patient, lumbar in 4 patients, thoracic in 2 patients, and cervical in 1 patient. Spinal extradural AVFs were divided into 3 types. In Type A spinal extradural AVFs, arteriovenous shunting occurs in the epidural space and these types have an intradural draining vein causing venous hypertension and spinal cord edema with associated myelopathy or cauda equina syndrome. Type B1 malformations are confined to the epidural space with no intradural draining vein, causing compression of the spinal cord and/or nerve roots with myelopathy and/or radiculopathy. Type B2 malformations are also confined to the epidural space with no intradural draining vein and no mass effect, and are asymptomatic. There were 4 Type A spinal extradural AVFs, 3 Type B1s, and 1 Type B2. Onyx was used in all cases for embolization. Follow-up at 6–24 months showed that 4 patients experienced excellent recovery. Three patients with Type A spinal extradural AVFs attained good motor recovery but experienced persistent bladder and/or bowel problems.

Conclusions

The current description of the different types of spinal extradural AVFs can help in understanding their pathophysiology and guide management. DynaCT was found to be useful in understanding the complex anatomy of these lesions. Endovascular treatment with Onyx is a good alternative for spinal extradural AVF management.
Affectivity of Zatoria multiflora Boiss extracts Against Bacteria
Authors: Rahman M Ur , Gul S , Odhano EA , Hafeez Ir , Tareen RB
Published: July 2011

The extracts of Zatoria multiflora Boiss were evaluated for prospective antibacterial activity against gram negative and gram positive bacteria. Cefoperazone is used as antibacterial reference drug. The activity of ethanol and methanol extract varied from organism to organism. The inhibitory effect of both the extracts and their 50/50 combination was more pronounced against gram positive bacteria. The MIC and MBC values were in the range of 1.718-6.25 and 2.832-6.25 mg/ml respectively. Significant (p=0.05) synergistic effect of combination of EtOH and MeOH extracts was recorded against Staphylococcus aureus ATCC 29213, Staphylococcus aureus ATCC 25923 while additive effect against rest of the bacterial strains. The present studies provide evidences for presence of antibacterial elements in alcoholic extracts and recommends for more exploration for it use against bacterial diseases. Key words: Extracts; Zatoria multiflora Boiss; Antibacterial; MIC; MBC; Synergistic. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/bjsir.v46i1.3652 Bangladesh J. Sci. Ind. Res. 46(1), 105-110, 2011
Detection, Emission Estimation and Risk Prediction of Forest Fires in China Using Satellite Sensors and Simulation Models in the Past Three Decades—An Overview
Authors: Zhang Jia-Hua , Yao Feng-Mei , Liu Cheng , Yang Li-Min , Boken Vijendra K.
Published: July 2011

Forest fires have major impact on ecosystems and greatly impact the amount of greenhouse gases and aerosols in the atmosphere. This paper presents an overview in the forest fire detection, emission estimation, and fire risk prediction in China using satellite imagery, climate data, and various simulation models over the past three decades. Since the 1980s, remotely-sensed data acquired by many satellites, such as NOAA/AVHRR, FY-series, MODIS, CBERS, and ENVISAT, have been widely utilized for detecting forest fire hot spots and burned areas in China. Some developed algorithms have been utilized for detecting the forest fire hot spots at a sub-pixel level. With respect to modeling the forest burning emission, a remote sensing data-driven Net Primary productivity (NPP) estimation model was developed for estimating forest biomass and fuel. In order to improve the forest fire risk modeling in China, real-time meteorological data, such as surface temperature, relative humidity, wind speed and direction，have been used as the model input for improving prediction of forest fire occurrence and its behavior. Shortwave infrared (SWIR) and near infrared (NIR) channels of satellite sensors have been employed for detecting live fuel moisture content (FMC), and the Normalized Difference Water Index (NDWI) was used for evaluating the forest vegetation condition and its moisture status.
Molecular Recognition Effects in Atomistic Models of Imprinted Polymers
Authors: Dourado Eduardo M. A. , Herdes Carmelo , Tassel Paul R. Van , Sarkisov Lev
Published: July 2011

In this article we present a model for molecularly imprinted polymers, which considers both complexation processes in the pre-polymerization mixture and adsorption in the imprinted structures within a single consistent framework. As a case study we investigate MAA/EGDMA polymers imprinted with pyrazine and pyrimidine. A polymer imprinted with pyrazine shows substantial selectivity towards pyrazine over pyrimidine, thus exhibiting molecular recognition, whereas the pyrimidine imprinted structure shows no preferential adsorption of the template. Binding sites responsible for the molecular recognition of pyrazine involve one MAA molecule and one EGDMA molecule, forming associations with the two functional groups of the pyrazine molecule. Presence of these specific sites in the pyrazine imprinted system and lack of the analogous sites in the pyrimidine imprinted system is directly linked to the complexation processes in the pre-polymerization solution. These processes are quite different for pyrazine and pyrimidine as a result of both enthalpic and entropic effects.
Dark Antimicrobial Mechanisms of Cationic Phenylene Ethynylene Polymers and Oligomers against Escherichia coli
Authors: Wang Ying , Zhou Zhijun , Zhu Jingshu , Tang Yanli , Canady Taylor D. , Chi Eva Y. , Schanze Kirk S. , Whitten David G.
Published: July 2011

The interactions of poly(phenylene ethynylene) (PPE)-based cationic conjugated polyelectrolytes (CPEs) and oligo-phenylene ethynylenes (OPEs) with E. coli cells are investigated to gain insights into the differences in the dark killing mechanisms between CPEs and OPEs. A laboratory strain of E. coli with antibiotic resistance is included in this work to study the influence of antibiotic resistance on the antimicrobial activity of the CPEs and OPEs. In agreement with our previous findings, these compounds can efficiently perturb the bacterial cell wall and cytoplasmic membrane, resulting in bacterial cell death. Electron microscopy imaging and cytoplasmic membrane permeability assays reveal that the oligomeric OPEs penetrate the bacterial outer membrane and interact efficiently with the bacterial cytoplasmic membrane. In contrast, the polymeric CPEs cause serious damage to the cell surface. In addition, the minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) and hemolytic concentration (HC) of the CPEs and OPEs are also measured to compare their antimicrobial activities against two different strains of E. coli with the compounds’ toxicity levels against human red blood cells (RBC). MIC and HC measurements are in good agreement with our previous model membrane perturbation study, which reveals that the different membrane perturbation abilities of the CPEs and OPEs are in part responsible for their selectivity towards bacteria compared to mammalian cells. Our study gives insight to several structural features of the PPE-based CPEs and OPEs that modulate their antimicrobial properties and that these features can serve as a basis for further tuning their structures to optimize antimicrobial properties.
The mechanism for explosive seed dispersal in Cardamine hirsuta (Brassicaceae)
Authors: Vaughn Kevin C. , Bowling Andrew J. , Ruel Katia J.
Published: July 2011

• Premise: Although many highly successful weed species use a ballistic seed dispersal mechanism, little is known about the mechanics of this process. Bittercress (Cardamine hirsuta) siliques are morphologically similar to Arabidopsis siliques, but they can project their seeds up to 5 m, while Arabidopsis seeds are dispersed by gravity. Comparison of these species should enable us to determine which structures might be responsible for ballistic seed dispersal.

• Methods: Sections of Arabidopsis and bittercress siliques were immunolabeled with antibodies raised against a variety of polysaccharide epitopes.

• Results: In bittercress, the second endocarp layer (enB) of the valve had strongly asymmetrical cell wall thickenings, whereas the analogous cells in Arabidopsis were reinforced symmetrically and to a lesser extent. Additionally, an accumulation of mucilaginous pectins was found between the first and second endocarp (enA and enB) layers in the bittercress valve that was not present in Arabidopsis. However, in both species, highly de‐esterified homogalacturonan was lost in the dehiscence zone (at the carpel/replum interface) as the siliques matured, thus allowing for separation of the valve at maturity.

• Conclusions: Ballistic seed dispersal in bittercress may involve the contraction of the outer pericarp tissue against the highly asymmetrically thickened enB cells, which are hypothesized to bend in one direction preferentially. The stress generated by the differential drying of the inner and outer layers of the valve is released suddenly as the adhesion between the cells of the dehiscence zone is lost, leading to a rapid coiling of the valve and dispersal of the seeds.
Soil fungal effects on floral signals, rewards, and aboveground interactions in an alpine pollination web
Authors: Becklin Katie M. , Gamez Guadalupe , Uelk Bryan , Raguso Robert A. , Galen Candace
Published: July 2011

• Premise of the study: Plants interact with above‐ and belowground organisms; the combined effects of these interactions determine plant fitness and trait evolution. To better understand the ecological and evolutionary implications of multispecies interactions, we explored linkages between soil fungi, pollinators, and floral larcenists in Polemonium viscosum (Polemoniaceae).

• Methods: Using a fungicide, we experimentally reduced fungal colonization of krummholz and tundra P. viscosum in 2008–2009. We monitored floral signals and rewards, interactions with pollinators and larcenists, and seed set for fungicide‐treated and control plants.

• Key results: Fungicide effects varied among traits, between interactions, and with environmental context. Treatment effects were negligible in 2008, but stronger in 2009, especially in the less‐fertile krummholz habitat. There, fungicide increased nectar sugar content and damage by larcenist ants, but did not affect pollination. Surprisingly, fungicide also enhanced seed set, suggesting that direct resource costs of soil fungi exceed indirect benefits from reduced larceny. In the tundra, fungicide effects were negligible in both years. However, pooled across treatments, colonization by mycorrhizal fungi in 2009 correlated negatively with the intensity and diversity of floral volatile organic compounds, suggesting integrated above‐ and belowground signaling pathways.

• Conclusions: Fungicide effects on floral rewards in P. viscosum link soil fungi to ecological costs of pollinator attraction. Trait‐specific linkages to soil fungi should decouple expression of sensitive and buffered floral phenotypes in P. viscosum. Overall, this study demonstrates how multitrophic linkages may lead to shifting selection pressures on interaction traits, restricting the evolution of specialization.
Development of 12 genic microsatellite loci for a biofuel grass, Miscanthus sinensis (Poaceae)
Authors: Ho Chuan‐Wen , Wu Tai‐Han , Hsu Tsai‐Wen , Huang Jao‐Ching , Huang Chi‐Chun , Chiang Tzen‐Yuh
Published: July 2011

• Premise of the study: Miscanthus, a nonfood plant with high potential as a biofuel, has been used in Europe and the United States. The selection of a cultivar with high biomass, photosynthetic efficiency, and stress resistance from wild populations has become an important issue. New genic microsatellite markers will aid the assessment of genetic diversity for different strains.

• Methods and Results: Twelve polymorphic microsatellite markers derived from the transcriptome of Miscanthus sinensis fo. glaber were identified and screened on 80 individuals of M. sinensis. The number of alleles per locus ranged from 6 to 12, and the mean expected heterozygosity was 0.75. Cross‐taxa transferability revealed that all loci can be applied to all varieties of M. sinensis, as well as the closely related species M. floridulus.

• Conclusions: These new genic microsatellite markers are useful for characterizing different traits in breeding programs or to select genes useful for biofuel.
Isolation and characterization of tetranucleotide microsatellite loci in Pinus massoniana (Pinaceae)
Authors: Guan Lanhua , Suharyanto  , Shiraishi Susumu
Published: July 2011

• Premise of the study: Tetranucleotide microsatellite markers were developed for the first time in Pinus massoniana Lamb. to facilitate studies of population and conservation biology in this species.

• Methods and Results: Ten tetranucleotide microsatellite primer pairs were developed using dual suppression PCR. Seven, six, and eight of the primer pairs exhibited cross‐species transferability to P. thunbergii, P. densiflora, and P. luchuensis, respectively. The number of alleles ranged from 1 to 31 per locus across four pine species.

• Conclusions: Considering its advantage over dinucleotide microsatellites in generating fewer artifacts arising from stutter bands, this tetranucleotide microsatellite panel will facilitate future population and conservation biological studies in P. massoniana. Six to eight markers can also be used in studies of three congeneric species.
Chromoblastomycosis caused by Cladophialophora carrionii in a child from India
Authors: Pradeepkumar Narayanappa Shiroorkar , Joseph Noyal Mariya
Published: July 2011

Chromoblastomycosis is a chronic fungal infection of the skin and subcutaneous tissue. It usually occurs following trauma with vegetative matter and mainly affects middle-aged male agricultural workers. Only a few cases have been reported in children. The lesions commonly involve the lower limbs, while the upper limbs and face are only rarely affected. We report a case of cutaneous chromoblastomycosis of the left arm, caused by Cladophialophora carrionii, in a 9-year-old boy from India, who was earlier misdiagnosed as cutaneous tuberculosis. The patient showed a good response to treatment with itraconazole and terbinafine.
Tubercular spinal epidural abscess involving the dorsal-lumbar-sacral region without osseous involvement
Authors: Arora Sumit , Kumar Ramesh
Published: July 2011

Musculoskeletal tuberculosis is known for its ability to present in various forms and guises at different sites. Tubercular spinal epidural abscess (SEA) is an uncommon infectious entity. Its presence without associated osseous involvement may be considered an extremely rare scenario. We present a rare case of tubercular SEA in an immune-competent 35-year-old male patient. The patient presented with acute cauda equina syndrome and was shown to have multisegmental SEA extending from D5 to S2 vertebral level without any evidence of vertebral involvement on MRI. The patient made an uneventful recovery following surgical decompression and antitubercular chemotherapy. The diagnosis was confirmed by histopathological demonstration of Mycobacterium tuberculosis in drained pus. Such presentation of tubercular SEA has not been reported previously in the English language based medical literature to the best of our knowledge
Isolation of viable Helicobacter pylori in the tonsillar tissues of chronic tonsillitis patients
Authors: Wibawa Tri , Surono Agus , Widodo Irianiwati
Published: July 2011

This item has no abstract available. Use the links below to access the fulll text.
High-Frequency Ultrasound Measurements of the Normal Ciliary Body and Iris
Authors: Garcia Julian P. S. , Spielberg Leigh , Finger Paul T.
Published: July 2011

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE:

To determine the normal ultrasonographic thickness of the iris and ciliary body.

PATIENTS AND METHODS:

This prospective 35-MHz ultrasonographic study included 80 normal eyes of 40 healthy volunteers. The images were obtained at the 12-, 3-, 6-, and 9-o’clock radial meridians, measured at three locations along the radial length of the iris and at the thickest section of the ciliary body. Mixed model was used to estimate eye site-adjusted means and standard errors and to test the statistical difference of adjusted results. Parameters included mean thickness, standard deviation, and range.

RESULTS:

Mean thicknesses at the iris root, midway along the radial length of the iris, and at the juxtapupillary margin were 0.4 ± 0.1, 0.5 ± 0.1, and 0.6 ± 0.1 mm, respectively. Those of the ciliary body, ciliary processes, and ciliary body + ciliary processes were 0.7 ± 0.1, 0.6 ± 0.1, and 1.3 ± 0.2 mm, respectively.

CONCLUSION:

This study provides standard, normative thickness data for the iris and ciliary body in healthy adults using ultrasonographic imaging.
Impactos de la reprogenética en las tendencias demográficas y en las estructuras familiares
Authors: Sánchez Morales Hilde
Published: July 2011

En este texto se presentan los impactos familiares y demográficos de la reproducción asistida y la ingeniería genética en humanos (Reprogenética). Nos sitúa en un tema complejo, debido al vertiginoso ritmo con el que se suceden los avances y las luces y sombras asociadas a su desenvolvimiento. Las cuestiones que trataremos de analizar a lo largo de las próximas páginas son las siguientes: ¿Hasta dónde la familia, como “grupo primario” fundamentado en la relación biológica que tiene entre sus funciones específicas –reguladas socialmente– la reproducción humana, la crianza, la ubicación y educación de los hijos, se verá estructural y sociológicamente modificada debido al desarrollo de formas alternativas a la hora de descendencia?, ¿en qué medida la Reprogenética está afectando a la Demografía, como disciplina científica, y cómo previsiblemente lo hará en un futuro cercano?
Domaine de la Terre en Villefontaine (Isère, France): balance de una experiencia ejemplar
Authors: Guillaud H.
Published: July 2011

El artículo presenta el resultado de una operación de construcción con tierra realizada en los años ochenta del siglo XX pasado, que aún conserva un carácter ejemplar por no haber sido repetida a una escala similar en los países europeos desde hace cerca de treinta años. Se trata de un programa de vivienda social desarrollado después del difícil período de las crisis de la energía de finales de los setenta, que inició investigaciones y experimentaciones para encontrar soluciones alternativas en el consumo energético. El proyecto, llamado le Domaine de la terre, fue también realizado en el contexto de la presentación de una exposición en el Centro Georges Pompidou de Paris, Arquitectura de tierra o el porvenir de una tradición milenaria. El debate internacional alrededor de esta muestra invitaba a dar pruebas de la factibilidad de un rebrote concreto de la arquitectura de tierra, en condiciones reales. Para esta época el reto fue considerable porque no había empresas con el saber hacer suficiente. Fue necesario capacitar a los obreros para construir en tapia, en bloques de tierra estabilizada y en terre-paille, en el lugar. Fue necesario, en condiciones de ausencia de normas, crear las condiciones para una experimentación piloto con el soporte del Plan de Construcción y Hábitat, un programa de promoción de proyectos piloto del gobierno francés. El programa, aunque difícil de realizar, fue un éxito, y constituyó una demostración tanto técnica como constructiva, arquitectónica y económica.
Paredes de tapial y su industrialización (encofrados y sistemas de compactación)
Authors: Von Mag A. , Rauch M.
Published: July 2011

El tapial como material se caracteriza por su inercia térmica y por un excelente comportamiento higrotérmico, que unidos al valor añadido inherente de la sostenibilidad y la fuerza tectónica de los muros, convierten a este material en un elemento de interés a incorporar en los proyectos de arquitectura actuales.
En general, el tapial como técnica de construcción con tierra necesita una intensiva cantidad y capacidad de trabajo. En este sentido la industrialización en la producción del tapial permitiría una racionalización de los costes de la mano de obra y tiempos de ejecución, a los que se podrían añadir mejoras en aspectos como la dosificación de tierra y agua, el control de calidad de ejecución, en especial el grado de compactación y, por supuesto, del acabado final.
La prefabricación con tierra permite una ejecución flexible en dimensiones e incluso integrar instalaciones eléctricas y de climatización, para no afectar al aspecto final de la superficie del muro de tierra.
La prefabricación es un paso más hacia la modernización de la construcción con tierra, y ha de abrir camino a un material como la tierra cruda en el mercado de la edificación y, en el fondo, ayudando a encontrar alternativas que nos aproximen a la sostenibilidad.
Investigación tecnológica aplicada: Domocaña
Authors: Barrionuevo R.
Published: July 2011

En Perú, hay una creciente necesidad de vivienda, en especial para las familias de extrema pobreza; además de ocurrencia de sismos y deterioro del medio ambiente. Es por esto que se busca nuevas soluciones con calidad, accesibles y ecológicas. Estudios realizados en Perú y otros países han mostrado la bondad de la caña o bambú como estructura sismo resistente, de distribución, cerramiento o decorativa. Sin embargo, su uso para vivienda de interés social es limitado; la población la usa en forma precaria.
En ese contexto, se propuso y se desarrolló el techo Domocaña en la Facultad de Arquitectura de la Universidad Nacional de Ingeniería (UNI). Fueron satisfactorios los ensayos de cargas estáticas en el Laboratorio del Centro de Investigaciones Sísmicas y Mitigación de Desastres (CISMID–UNI). Las viviendas experimentales que se construyeron utilizando la tecnología mejorada del adobe y el techo domocaña resistieron cargas dinámicas en los sismos de Moquegua (2003) y Pisco (2007) sin sufrir daño alguno.
La UNI, por encargo de la Comisión del Ministerio de Vivienda, Construcción y Saneamiento del Perú, y con el fin de dar la norma técnica, está estudiando las características físicas y mecánicas del material para establecer parámetros de diseño y condiciones constructivas para el uso de la caña y bambú en edificaciones.
Larval phenologies and parasitoids of two seed-feeding weevils associated with hoary cress and shepherd's purse (Brassicaceae) in Europe
Authors: Muller Franck J. , Dosdall Lloyd M. , Mason Peter G. , Kuhlmann Ulrich
Published: July 2011

In Europe, Ceutorhynchus turbatus Schultze and Ceutorhynchus typhae (Herbst) (Coleoptera: Curculionidae) feed on seeds from hoary cress and shepherd's purse (Cardaria draba (L.) Desv. and Capsella bursa-pastoris (L.) Medik.); both plants are invasive in North America. In North America, C. turbatus is a candidate for biological control of hoary cress, C. typhae is adventive, and both are sympatric with cabbage seedpod weevil (Ceutorhynchus obstrictus (Marsham)), an invasive alien pest of canola (Brassica napus L. and Brassica rapa L., Brassicaceae). We investigated host associations among C. turbatus, C. typhae, and their parasitoids in Europe. Of particular interest was host specificity of Trichomalus perfectus (Walker) and Mesopolobus morys (Walker) (Hymenoptera: Pteromalidae), candidates for biological control of C. obstrictus in North America. We found no evidence that T. perfectus attacks C. turbatus or C. typhae; however, M. morys was the most common parasitoid associated with C. turbatus.
A SOCS-1 Promoter Variant Is Associated with Total Serum IgE Levels
Authors: Mostecki Justin , Cassel Suzanne L. , Klimecki Walter T. , Stern Debra A. , Knisz Judit , Iwashita Sachiyo , Graves Penelope , Miller Rachel L. , van Peer Maartje , Halonen Marilyn , Martinez Fernando D. , Vercelli Donata , Rothman Paul B.
Published: July 2011

SOCS-1 is a critical regulator of multiple signaling pathways, including those activated by cytokines that regulate Ig H chain class switching to IgE. Analysis of mice with mutations in the SOCS-1 gene demonstrated that IgE levels increase with loss of SOCS-1 alleles. This suggested that overall SOCS-1 acts as an inhibitor of IgE expression in vivo. A genetic association study was performed in 474 children enrolled in the Tucson Children’s Respiratory Study to determine if genetic variation in the SOCS-1 locus correlates with altered levels of IgE. Carriers of the C-allele for a novel, 3′ genomic single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) in the SOCS-1 gene (SOCS1+1125G > C; rs33932899) were found to have significantly lower levels of serum IgE compared with those of homozygotes for the G-allele. Analysis demonstrated that the SOCS1+1125G > C SNP was in complete linkage disequilibrium with an SNP at position SOCS1−820G > T (rs33977706) of the SOCS-1 promoter. Carriers of the T-allele at the SOCS1−820G > T were also found to be associated with the decreased IgE. The promoter SNP increased transcriptional activity of the SOCS-1 promoter in reporter assays and human B cells. Consistent with this observation, the presence of this polymorphism within the promoter abolished binding of yin yang-1, which is identified as a negative regulator of SOCS-1 transcriptional activity. These data suggest that genetic variation in the SOCS-1 promoter may affect IgE production.
IL-22–Induced Regulatory CD11b+ APCs Suppress Experimental Autoimmune Uveitis
Authors: Ke Yan , Sun Deming , Jiang Guomin , Kaplan Henry J. , Shao Hui
Published: July 2011

We have previously reported that IL-17+ interphotoreceptor retinoid-binding protein (IRBP) 161–180-specific T cells have a strong pathogenic effect in experimental autoimmune uveitis (EAU) induced in B10RIII mice; however, this pathogenic activity is not solely attributable to the major cytokine, IL-17, produced by these cells. To determine whether other cytokines produced by Th17 cells show a stronger association with their pathogenic activity, we studied the role of IL-22 in EAU. IL-22 is one of the major cytokines produced by these cells. Our results showed that administration of small doses of IL-22 to EAU-susceptible mice significantly reduced the severity of EAU. In addition, mice treated with IL-22 generated decreased numbers of IFN-γ+ and IL-17+ uveitogenic T cells, but increased numbers of Foxp3+ regulatory T cells. Mechanistic studies showed that the effect of the injected IL-22 was on CD11b+ APCs, which expressed increased levels of IL-22R during induction of disease following immunization with uveitogenic Ag. In vitro IL-22 treatment of CD11b+ APCs collected from Ag-primed mice resulted in increased expression of programmed death ligand-1 and the production of increased amounts of IL-10 and TGF-β. Moreover, IL-22–treated CD11b+ APCs caused IRBP161–180-specific T cells to lose their uveitogenic activity and acquire immunosuppressive activity, which suppressed the induction of EAU by additional pathogenic IRBP161–180-specific effector T cells.
Fish MITA Serves as a Mediator for Distinct Fish IFN Gene Activation Dependent on IRF3 or IRF7
Authors: Sun Fan , Zhang Yi-Bing , Liu Ting-Kai , Shi Jun , Wang Bing , Gui Jian-Fang
Published: July 2011

In mammals, cytosolic sensors retinoic acid-inducible gene I (RIG-I)-like receptors (RLRs) activate multiple signaling cascades initiating IFN-α/β expression. IFN regulatory factor 3 (IRF3) is required for the activation of IFN-β, which, in turn, primes the expression of most IFN-α genes by IFN-induced IRF7 through the STAT1 pathway. In fish, RIG-I overexpression inhibits virus infection by induction of IFN response; however, the subtle signaling cascade mechanism remains to be identified. In this study, we clone an ortholog of MITA, a recently identified adaptor responsible for RLR pathway, from crucian carp (Carassius auratus L.), and demonstrate its ability to suppress viral replication through IRF3/7-dependent IFN response. The pivotal signaling molecules of RLR pathway, including RIG-I, melanoma differentiation-associated gene 5, laboratory of genetics and physiology 2, and TANK-binding kinase 1, are also cloned and characterized, confirming that the RLR-mediated IFN activation is conserved from fish to mammals. Further characterization of distinct IFN gene activation reveals that zebrafish IFN1 and IFN3 are induced by the MITA pathway but are dependent on distinct transcription factors. Whereas fish IFN genes cannot be classified into IFN-α or IFN-β, zebrafish IFN1 is primarily regulated by IRF3, thereby resembling that of IFN-β, and zebrafish IFN3 is regulated by IRF7, thereby resembling of those of IFN-αs. In contrast with mammalian IFN-α/β, zebrafish IFN1 and IFN3 are induced by the basally expressed IRF3 or IRF7, both of which are upregulated by IFN and virus infection. Collectively, these data suggest that IFN genes in fish and mammals have evolved independently to acquire a similar mechanism triggering their expression.
Mid-Term Outcomes of Endovascular Treatment for Symptomatic Chronic Mesenteric Ischemia
Authors: Schönefeld Eva , Szesny Susanne , Donas Konstantinos P. , Pitoulias Georgios A. , Torsello Giovanni
Published: July 2011

The authors would present the mid-term outcomes with the use of stent-supported angioplasty in the treatment of symptomatic chronic mesenteric ischemia (CMI). The present study is a retrospective analysis of 36 patients undergoing endovascular treatment of symptomatic CMI, between November 2000 and September 2009. Primary study endpoints were defined as primary patency, periprocedural and midterm mortality and complications, and symptom improvement after intervention. Forty-one mesenteric arteries (77.3% stenotic and 22.7% occluded vessels) were treated in 36 patients with 42 stents. In 30 patients (83.3%) one visceral artery and in 6 cases (16.7%) two visceral arteries were treated. Overall mortality was 16.7% (n = 6) after a 60-month follow-up (mean follow-up period 30.1 months). Two early (<30-day) deaths were caused by visceral ischemia (n = 2: 5.5%). Late death was procedure-related in one patient with re-occlusion of the superior mesenteric artery after 12 months. The other 3 patients died from non procedure-related causes; e.g., twice myocardial infarction. Initial symptom relief was observed in 29 patients (80.5%); 7 patients reported no change. Primary patency was 83.3% after 5 years and secondary patency was 90.5% (38 out of 42 stents) among all patients. Two conversions to open surgery were documented. First-line endovascular approach of CMI is a reasonable strategy. Close follow-up is mandatory due to symptom recurrence and restenosis.
A temática do desenvolvimento sustentável em grupos de pesquisa
Authors: Ferraz Maria Cristina Comunian , Hayashi Maria Cristina Piumbato Innocentini , Hayashi Carlos Roberto Massao
Published: July 2011

A inovação tecnológica trouxe para o debate a questão do desenvolvimento tecnológico sustentável. O artigo apresenta um conjunto de reflexões teóricas sobre os temas ciência, tecnologia e desenvolvimento sustentável e aponta as contribuições da Ciência da Informação, enquanto ciência interdisciplinar, para a compreensão do desenvolvimento sustentável. Com base neste referencial foi realizada uma investigação, de natureza exploratória descritiva com abordagem quanti-qualitativa, tendo como objetivo principal identificar a presença da temática do desenvolvimento sustentável em grupos de pesquisa da UFSCar cadastrados no Diretório de Grupos de Pesquisa no Brasil/CNPq. Os resultados apontaram que a temática do desenvolvimento sustentável está presente em onze grupos de pesquisa da UFSCar distribuídas em diferentes áreas de conhecimento. Comparando os dados obtidos com os grupos de pesquisa do país que participaram do Censo 2004 do Diretório de Grupos de Pesquisa no Brasil/CNPq verificou-se que há similaridade entre ambos os achados. De acordo com a literatura científica, confirma-se que a temática do desenvolvimento sustentável é interdisciplinar e que a produção de conhecimento dos grupos de pesquisa é fruto de saberes articulados entre várias áreas do conhecimento.
Bibliotecas: metáforas da memória
Authors: Silva Terezinha Elizabeth da
Published: July 2011

Analisa o desejo de acúmulo do saber e da memória e, o desejo de mostração do poder representados na arquitetura dos prédios de grandes bibliotecas. A biblioteca como metáfora da memória da humanidade. Discute sobre o sonho do eterno que perpassa os desejos das bibliotecas ao longo da história do livro e das bibliotecas. Reflete sobre a função dos prédios (edifícios) de grandes e importantes bibliotecas para o desenvolvimento e manutenção do desejo do eterno e da metáfora da memória e a representação do fantástico e do sagrado.
Interações entre ciência e tecnologia: análise da produção intelectual dos pesquisadores-inventores da primeira carta-patente da UFRGS
Authors: Moura Ana Maria Mielniczuk de , Rozados Beatriz Frota , Caregnato Sônia Elisa
Published: July 2011

Discute questões como propriedade intelectual e industrial e diferenças existentes entre conhecimento científico e tecnológico. Busca inserir a patente no contexto da comunicação científica e tecnológica. Apresenta dados de um estudo que objetiva analisar a relação entre a informação científica e a tecnológica na produção intelectual dos pesquisadores-inventores da primeira carta-patente da Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul (UFRGS). O período analisado compreende os anos anteriores à publicação do pedido da patente (1996-2000) e posteriores (2001-2005). Conclui que, no caso analisado, ocorre um fluxo entre a informação científica e tecnológica, na qual a primeira, após sua divulgação e aprovação pelos pares, subsidia a segunda. Da mesma forma, a patente gera um impacto na produção científica dos pesquisadores, ocorrendo uma retroalimentação entre ciência e tecnologia. Sugere que novos estudos sejam realizados.
Sobre o projeto político pedagógico: a flexibilização curricular
Authors: Maia Manuela Eugênia , Albuquerque Maria Elizabeth Baltar Carneiro de
Published: July 2011

Este artigo apresenta questões curriculares do curso de graduação em Biblioteconomia da Universidade Federal da Paraíba. O objetivo é analisar elementos que subsidiem a proposta de flexibilização curricular para o referido curso. Do ponto de vista metodológico, a pesquisa respalda-se em uma abordagem qualitativa, utilizando documentos legais (Leis, Pareceres, Editais e Resoluções) e documentos institucionais (materiais produzidos pela academia na área pedagógica voltada para discussões referentes ao PPP, currículo e flexibilização curricular e seus enlaces teóricos). Como proposta, verifica-se na flexibilização curricular uma ação estratégica na tentativa de garantir o diálogo permanente entre cursos de formação e mercado de trabalho, favorecendo, assim, a conexão com a realidade social na qual o aluno egresso será inserido. Além disso, a flexibilização curricular amplia o direito de escolha dos alunos, possibilita uma maior participação dos colegiados dos cursos e produz reflexão nos docentes quanto ao atendimento das necessidades internas dos próprios cursos de formação.
O profissional da informação e as habilidades exigidas pelo mercado de trabalho emergente
Authors: Dutra Tatiana N. Augusto , Carvalho Andréa Vasconcelos
Published: July 2011

Diante de um novo perfil do emprego e do mercado de trabalho - que se transforma marcadamente em face das tecnologias de informação e comunicação (TIC) há uma demanda por profissionais munidos de novas habilidades e competências. Assim, objetiva-se, de modo geral, analisar as novas habilidades demandadas pelo mercado de trabalho atual para o profissional da informação. Para tanto, busca-se especificamente, caracterizar os fatores determinantes do contexto atual; verificar o impacto das TIC no mercado de trabalho do profissional da informação; e conhecer as transformações ocorridas no perfil deste profissional frente a estas mudanças. Para alcançar os objetivos propostos recorreu-se à pesquisa bibliográfica, bem como à análise de anúncios de empregos divulgados no website Catho On-line. A análise dos dados se deu de forma comparativa entre os anos de 2003 e 2005 e, permitiu concluir que as habilidades exigidas para o profissional da informação na atualidade dizem respeito, além dos conhecimentos técnicos, a fluência em idioma estrangeiro, ao domínio da informática, aos conhecimentos gerencias e, principalmente, às habilidades interpessoais.
Prontuário eletrônico do paciente e o processo de competência informacional
Authors: Mota Francisca Rosaline Leite
Published: July 2011

Trata-se de um estudo sobre o Prontuário Eletrônico do Paciente focando a questão do uso. Buscou-se compreender a possibilidade de inicio de um processo de Competência Informacional (Information Literacy) a partir da inserção dos dados no prontuário eletrônico e das relações que se estabelecem com as informações registradas em tal ferramenta tecnológica.
Repensando o método 5S para arquivos
Authors: Delgadillo Sandra Maria Lopes Toro , Oliveira Elias
Published: July 2011

A despeito de estar fundamentado em hábitos de uma cultura radicalmente diferente da brasileira, o Método 5S se tornou muito popular a partir dos anos 90 em nosso país. Muitas foram as organizações que o adotaram como estratégia de aumentar a eficiência. Entretanto, o 5S, quando aplicado a arquivos deve ser entendido de forma mais ampla, reformulado. Este artigo aponta alguns dos pontos no quais o Método 5S é omisso para organizações, ou repartições, com responsabilidades de arquivo. Apresentamos também um relato de um caso vivenciado por um dos autores onde a observância na extensão do método não foi levado em conta e sua infeliz consequências.
Metadados digitais: revisão bibliográfica da evolução e tendências por meio de categorias funcionais
Authors: Campos Luiz Fernando de Barros
Published: July 2011

Revisão bibliográfica sobre metadados digitais no campo da ciência da informação, objetivando precisar as várias funcionalidades dos metadados. Empregando-se uma técnica de análise de conteúdo temática, constatou-se a recorrência de tecnologias como XML, RDFS, ontologias, data warehouses, Web Semântica, serviços Web, entre outras, e de dez categorias relativas às funções dos metadados que fundamentavam os textos examinados. Com suporte na análise temática, adotando-se uma perspectiva técnica e histórica, relacionaram-se as categorias funcionais às tecnologias e mostrou-se como as categorias são tratadas em dezenove dos artigos revisados, destacando-se as ênfases empregadas e a convergência dos temas. Notou-se que trabalhos e tecnologias que versam sobre padrões e modelos para preservação digital adotam perspectivas mais abrangentes e integradas, incorporando todas ou quase todas as categorias. Com base nos resultados, foram comentadas tendências e questões latentes percebidas na revisão bibliográfica, e sugeridas abordagens e metodologias para a análise de metadados e das tecnologias relacionadas.
Revista educação temática digital: aproximação entre educação e ciência da informação
Authors: Bufrem Leilah Santiago , Breda Sônia Maria , Sorribas Tidra Viana
Published: July 2011

Análise do periódico Educação Temática Digital. Discorre sobre o histórico da revista desde a criação, em 1999, como Revista Online da Biblioteca Prof. Joel Martins. Examina o conteúdo temático dessa produção, enfatizando as aproximações entre a educação e a ciência da informação. Apresenta a distribuição dos 147 artigos por ano e por título da revista. Para discutir as tendências temáticas presentes nos artigos, realiza padronização dos termos da base de dados, com posterior reunião em grupos temáticos mais abrangentes e representativos de um espectro amplo de assuntos. Identifica como tema mais freqüente, entre o universo de descritores, a educação (incluindo-se os termos compostos como educação a distância, básica, colonial, cultural, entre outros) seguida de ensino (ensino a distância, ensino inclusivo etc.) e formação. Evidencia a contribuição da revista como expressão planejada de iniciativas editoriais interessadas nas questões da educação.
Strengthening women’s security in crisis? The virtual implementation of strategies and guidelines
Authors: Scharffscher, PhD Kristin S. , Olsen, PhD Odd Einar
Published: July 2011

Humanitarian agencies consist of several organizational levels, of which some find themselves far from each other in terms of culture and context. In their efforts to ensure a common direction in activities, humanitarian managers therefore rely on an array of guiding documents such as strategies, policies, and guidelines. Such guiding documents, however, are reported to have a marginal effect on humanitarian practice at field level. In this article, the authors take a closer look at the interlevel dynamics of humanitarian agencies and ask why their guiding documents are prone to flawed implementation. This study is centered on the United Nations Development Programme’s Gender Equality Strategy 2008-2011, and in particular its Eight Point Agenda for women’s empowerment and gender equality in crisis prevention and recovery. Theories concerning safety management and organizational accidents in commercial companies are used to analyze the implementation process. The findings revealed job perception gaps and diverging “realities” between the different organizational levels, combined with implementation indicators that are perceived as “irrelevant” at the country office and field office levels. Indicators tend to measure the output of administrative efforts within the organization rather than the outcome for the crisis-affected communities the guiding document was intended to protect. This phenomenon can be described as virtual implementation, as managers at the headquarters level are left with a mistaken belief that their guiding documents have made a humanitarian impact. As a consequence, virtual implementation can exacerbate the job perception gaps within the organization and develop latent conditions for future failures.