bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The differential effects of the timing of maternal nutrient restriction in the ovine placenta on glucocorticoid sensitivity, uncoupling protein 2, peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-γ and cell proliferation
Authors: Yiallourides M , Sebert S P , Wilson V , Sharkey D , Rhind S M , Symonds M E , Budge H
Published: June 2009

Nutrient restriction (NR) during critical windows of pregnancy has differential effects on placento-fetal growth and development. Our study, therefore, investigated developmental and metabolic adaptations within the ovine placenta following NR at different critical windows during the first 110 days of gestation (term=147 days). Thus, the effects of NR on cell proliferation, glucocorticoid sensitivity, IGF1 and 2 receptor, peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor γ (PPARG), and uncoupling protein (UCP)2 gene expression in the placenta were examined. Singleton bearing sheep (n=4–8 per group) were fed either 100% of their total metabolizable energy requirements throughout the study or 50% of this amount between 0–30, 31–65, 66–110, and 0–110 days gestation. A significant reduction in cell proliferation and increased gene expression for the glucocorticoid and IGF2 receptors,PPARG, andUCP2were detected in placentae sampled from mothers who were nutrient restricted between days 66 and 110 of gestation, only, relative to controls. This window of gestation coincides with the maximum placental growth and the start of exponential growth of the fetus when there are substantially increased metabolic demands on the placenta compared with earlier in gestation. Consequently, increased glucocorticoid sensitivity and suppressed IGF2 action could contribute to a switch in the placenta from proliferation to differentiation, thereby improving its nutrient transfer capacity. Upregulation of PPARG and UCP2 would promote placental fatty acid metabolism thereby limiting glucose utilization. These compensatory placental responses may serve to maintain fetal growth but could result in adverse adaptations such as the early onset of the metabolic syndrome in later life.
A NOTES-ról és az általa létrehívott egyéb minimálisan invazív sebészeti technikákról (hibrid NOTES, NOTUS, SPS, SILS), valamint a sebészeti szemléletre gyakorolt hatásukrólr
Authors: Lukovich Péter , Kupcsulik Péter
Published: June 2009

Absztrakt

2004-ben egy új technikával ismerkedett meg a világ, melyet természetes szájadékokon keresztüli endoscopos sebészetnek (NOTES) neveztek el. A módszerrel kapcsolatosan kérdések sora fogalmazódott meg, s bár számos problémára a mai napig nem sikerült megoldást találni, egyre újabb cikkek jelennek meg a módszer humánalkalmazásáról. A fennálló megoldatlan kérdések megkerülésére számos új műtéttechnikai megoldást fejlesztettek ki (hibrid NOTES, NOTUS, SPS, SLIS stb.), mely a problémákat ugyan nem küszöböli ki teljesen, egyes esetekben mégis reális megoldást jelenthet. Ismeretük és kritikus elemzésük fontos a kor sebészének. A módszerek bármelyikének alkalmazása a korábban lefektetett sebészeti és flexibilis endoscopos elvek felülvizsgálatát igényli. Bár ezeket sok esetben axiómaként kezelik, léteznek irodalmi adatok a tőlük eltérő kezelési elvekre is. A természetes szájadékokon keresztüli sebészet által felvetett szokásos kérdések (melyik behatolási kapu a legalkalmasabb, hogyan zárjuk a viscerotomiás nyílást, hogyan előzzük meg az infekciót, ki fogja végezni a NOTES-műtétet), kritikus elemzése csak a korábban “gold standard”-ként alkalmazott technikák okozta szövődmények (pl. laparoscopos műtétek utáni sebinfekció, sérv) tükrében érdemes. Humánadatok szerint a NOTES-műtét minimális fájdalommal jár, a betegek általában aznap elhagyhatják a kórházat. Elegendő-e ilyen rövid posztoperatív observatio, és elhagyható-e a cholecystectomia utáni drainage? A humáneredmények alkalmasak az új technikával kapcsolatos korai következetések levonására is. A laparoscopia fejlődése során felmerült problémák retrospektív elemzése lehetőséget teremthet a NOTES fejlődése során elkövethető hibák elkerülésére.
Suplementação com vitamina A no puerpério: revisão sistemática
Authors: Caminha Maria de Fátima Costa , Batista Filho Malaquias , Fernandes Taciana Fernanda dos Santos , Arruda Ilma Kruze Grande de , Diniz Alcides da Silva
Published: June 2009

Realizou-se revisão sistemática de estudos avaliativos da aplicação de megadoses de vitamina A nas concentrações de retinol no sangue e no leite maternos como medida de curto prazo para a prevenção de hipovitaminose A. Com base na estratégia do Centro Cochrane do Brasil para ensaios clínicos aleatórios foram identificadas 115 publicações no PubMed, entre as quais, por um conjunto de critérios de inclusão/exclusão, foram selecionados 14 artigos publicados entre 1993 a 2007. O efeito das intervenções com três esquemas posológicos (200.000, 300.000 e 400.000 UI) de vitamina A foram analisados. Dos 11 experimentos realizados em leite materno, nove apresentaram elevação dos níveis de retinol em comparação com o grupo controle; dos nove que avaliaram sangue materno, quatro mostraram elevação após tempos variados de aplicação de megadoses de vitamina A. Conclui-se que a administração de vitamina A em elevadas doses foi positiva em 82% dos ensaios com leite materno, mas menos notáveis em comparação ao sangue materno. Não foram observadas diferenças significativas quanto à posologia aplicada.
Conselhos Municipais de Saúde do Brasil: um debate sobre a democratização da política de saúde nos vinte anos do SUS
Authors: Moreira Marcelo Rasga , Escorel Sarah
Published: June 2009

Em dezessete anos, os Conselhos de Saúde foram criados nos 5.564 municípios do país, arregimentando cerca de 72.000 conselheiros. Autores afirmam que a institucionalização dos Conselhos é importante para a democratização da política municipal de saúde, pois amplia os atores que participam de seu processo decisório. Constatam, porém, que isto é insuficiente para tornar tal processo efetivamente democratizado. Este cenário é investigado por meio de inédita pesquisa censitária sobre o funcionamento dos Conselhos Municipais de Saúde (CMS). Para compreendê-lo, utilizam-se três dimensões analíticas (autonomia, organização e acesso) compostas por dezoito variáveis. A análise dos resultados mostra que os CMS têm problemas com autonomia e organização e bom desempenho no acesso. A distribuição por portes populacionais revela que os melhores resultados são os dos CMS de cidades com mais de 250.000 habitantes, e os piores, de população inferior a 50.000. Os problemas identificados são reações à institucionalização dos CMS. Estas proveem de governantes que consideram as atribuições e o caráter deliberativo dos CMS, ameaças a seus interesses. Ocorrem por seu baixo custo, pois as regras do processo decisório não as desestimulam. Busca-se, aqui, compreender reações e regras, apresentando-se propostas de superação de problemas.
A descentralização da ação governamental no Brasil dos anos noventa: desafios do ambiente político-institucional
Authors: Ribeiro Patrícia Tavares
Published: June 2009

O artigo realiza aproximação às especificidades da descentralização da ação estatal ocorrida na República Federativa do Brasil nos anos noventa, apresentando condições do ambiente político-institucional governamental que compuseram o cenário da implementação da gestão descentralizada do setor saúde. Identifica desafios para a recomposição das relações federativas oriundos do campo da gestão macroeconômica, da gestão das políticas sociais e dos ensaios de rearranjo institucional-gerencial do setor público e da administração pública, visando à reflexão sobre a situação dos governos federal, estaduais e municipais na implementação dos processos descentralizadores. Conclui que a descentralização no país foi operada em meio ao fortalecimento da federação e às convergências e tensões entre dois projetos distintos para reformar o Estado: um projeto econômico transnacional, liberalizante, de modernização do Estado, e um projeto nacional, socialmente construído, de ampliação e universalização de direitos e de redemocratização do Estado. As inovações federativas e as pressões e influências destes dois projetos condicionaram as relações intergovernamentais na reorganização da gestão das políticas públicas.
A construção da política de segurança alimentar e nutricional no Brasil: estratégias e desafios para a promoção da intersetorialidade no âmbito federal de governo
Authors: Burlandy Luciene
Published: June 2009

Este artigo analisa estratégias institucionais do governo federal brasileiro destinadas à promover a intersetorialidade no campo da Segurança Alimentar e Nutricional (SAN), com base em revisão bibliográfica e análise documental. Pressupõe que, embora a institucionalidade formal neste nível de governo não seja suficiente para promover a intersetorialidade, ela é importante para induzir o processo. Conclui-se que a conjugação de diferentes mecanismos institucionais favorece a intersetorialidade, tais como: a existência e localização de conselhos integrados por setores de governo e sociedade civil na presidência da república; o apoio político da presidência e inclusão do tema como estratégico na agenda governamental; conjugação de espaços institucionais que articulem os primeiros escalões de governo e que aproximem os níveis técnicos; programas que integrem produção, comercialização e consumo de alimentos. Os desafios referem-se à articulação com a política econômica e construção de um orçamento pactuado entre os setores, que seja integrado à gestão e ao monitoramento da política.
Propaganda de medicamentos no Brasil: é possível regular?
Authors: Nascimento Álvaro César
Published: June 2009

A regulação da propaganda de medicamentos no Brasil incorpora quatro fragilidades. A fiscalização e punição das irregularidades cometidas são realizadas a posteriori do acometimento da infração (quando a população já foi exposta a risco sanitário). As multas cobradas pela Anvisa têm valor irrisório frente aos investimentos em publicidade. Inexiste um mecanismo que impeça que as multas sejam repassadas aos preços. A frase "A persistirem os sintomas o médico deverá ser consultado" em vez de alertar para os riscos da automedicação, estimula o uso pelo menos do primeiro medicamento sem receita, indicando a busca de um médico só no caso da permanência dos sintomas. Dados da Anvisa e estudos acadêmicos apontam que de 90% a 100% da publicidade exibida nos meios de comunicação contêm irregularidades. Assim, a Resolução de Diretoria Colegiada 102/2000 da Anvisa, que procura regular o setor, se constitui em um sistema que beneficia o infrator e mantém a população sob risco. Este trabalho analisa uma alternativa de regulação, considerando o estatuto da anuência prévia da publicidade pelo sistema de vigilância; percorre estatutos internacionais e propõe uma alteração na estrutura do atual modelo, inserindo a lógica da prevenção do risco sanitário.
Inclusão digital e conselheiros de saúde: uma política para a redução da desigualdade social no Brasil
Authors: Moraes Ilara Hämmerli Sozzi de , Veiga Luciana , Vasconcellos Miguel Murat , Santos Silvia Regina Fontoura Rangel dos
Published: June 2009

Após vinte anos do SUS, a desigualdade nas condições de saúde da população permanece como uma realidade, impondo aos movimentos sociais que exercem o controle social sobre a saúde uma contínua luta. Nesse embate, o acúmulo de força política está relacionado ao aumento da capacidade de apropriação de conhecimento e informação. Conhecer dimensões da desigualdade na inclusão digital de conselheiros de saúde (CS) de diferentes regiões do país é o objetivo desse trabalho. O método adotado foi a pesquisa qualitativa, por meio da técnica de grupos focais com CS representantes dos gestores, dos prestadores, dos trabalhadores e dos usuários, atuantes na esfera nacional, estadual ou municipal. Foram trabalhadas quatro dimensões, abrangendo: o hábito de leitura e de redigir textos; o uso da Internet; o uso de indicadores de saúde e o papel da informação na relação Conselho-Estado-Sociedade. Os resultados indicaram a necessidade de se ampliar a fundamentação das ações de inclusão digital em saúde, articulando-a, então, à política e à educação, enquanto desafio intersetorial. Utilizando referenciais da filosofia da educação, delineia-se matriz teórico-analítica como contribuição ao entendimento da complexidade que envolve promover a inclusão digital na Saúde.
O agir econômico como motor da política de saúde na Alemanha: consequências para a prevenção e promoção da saúde
Authors: Stegmüller Klaus
Published: June 2009

Desde os anos setenta, a política de saúde alemã se concentrou na contenção de custos - mais precisamente, na redução da contribuição do empregador para o seguro de saúde estatutário (SHI). As estruturas expandidas do SHI relacionadas ao financiamento, provisão e gerenciamento permaneceram inalteradas até o início dos anos noventa. Porém, o período seguinte foi marcado por ampla transformação. Desenvolveram-se instrumentos regulatórios para criar incentivos financeiros a fundos de saúde, fornecedores de assistência médica e segurados/pacientes para reduzir os gastos. Essa transformação baseou-se no princípio normativo, que considera os interessados como sujeitos econômicos agindo de forma racional. O objetivo deste trabalho é avaliar os impactos desejados e não desejados de uma mudança de paradigma, em que a solidariedade é sobrepujada pela competição, co-pagamento e privatização. Mostra-se onde essa mudança paradigmática pode ser vista e os instrumentos usados para que se realizasse. Em seguida, analisam-se as reações dos fundos de saúde, provedores de assistência médica e segurados/pacientes a essa mudança. Por fim, demonstra-se, com exemplos de prevenção e promoção de saúde, que o foco exclusivo neste modelo econômico não permite que a política de saúde realize adequadamente seus objetivos.
O que os usuários pensam e falam do Sistema Único de Saúde? Uma análise dos significados à luz da carta dos direitos dos usuários
Authors: Backes Dirce Stein , Koerich Magda Santos , Rodrigues Anna Carolina Ribeiro Lopes , Drago Livia Crespo , Klock Patrícia , Erdmann Alacoque Lorenzini
Published: June 2009

O presente estudo é fruto de um projeto ampliado de pesquisa-ação que tem por objetivo apresentar e discutir as opiniões, percepções e/ou experiências de um grupo de usuários do SUS sobre a cartilha dos direitos dos usuários. Os encontros foram realizados semanalmente e, posteriormente, a coleta seguiu-se com os procedimentos de análise dos dados das pesquisas qualitativas, até alcançar as unidades temáticas. Os resultados demonstram que não basta garantir o acesso ao sistema público de saúde. É preciso criar uma consciência política para que os usuários não se tornem meros receptores ou interlocutores das propostas governamentais. É preciso que todos os atores sociais estejam engajados e comprometidos, por meio de seus direitos e deveres, na luta pela transformação da sociedade.
Vigilância da saúde no espaço de práticas da atenção básica
Authors: Oliveira Cátia Martins , Casanova Ângela Oliveira
Published: June 2009

O artigo discute as possibilidades de reorientação do processo de trabalho na atenção básica à luz dos pressupostos da vigilância da saúde. Além disso, apresenta alguns conceitos-chave que podem ajudar a operacionalizar um sistema de vigilância em saúde no nível local. Entre eles, aborda a noção de território enquanto local privilegiado de atuação da atenção básica. Aponta ainda para o valor heurístico da integração de saberes e práticas das diversas áreas de conhecimento no campo da saúde, no sentido de garantir uma visão mais abrangente sobre os problemas e necessidades de saúde e a integralidade da atenção. Por fim, analisa as contribuições das vigilâncias epidemiológica, ambiental e sanitária na consolidação de um sistema de vigilância em saúde que, por sua vez, não se restringe à simples integração desses três campos de atuação. Ações integradas das vigilâncias epidemiológica, sanitária e ambiental podem favorecer a atuação sobre os riscos, tornando possível respostas inovadoras e mais efetivas às necessidades que emergem no âmbito da saúde. Ademais, serve como experiência para a equipe local no desenvolvimento de ações intersetoriais, cuja importância, ainda que reconhecida no nível discursivo, tem se concretizado muito pouco no âmbito das práticas.
Target-based therapies in breast cancer: current status and future perspectives
Authors: Normanno Nicola , Morabito Alessandro , De Luca Antonella , Piccirillo Maria Carmela , Gallo Marianna , Maiello Monica R , Perrone Francesco
Published: June 2009

Identification of molecular alterations in key proteins involved in breast cancer cell proliferation and survival resulted in the development of a new treatment strategy with target-based agents. The anti-ErbB-2 monoclonal antibody (mAb) trastuzumab and the dual epidermal growth factor receptor/ErbB-2 tyrosine kinase inhibitor lapatinib are effective in patients with breast cancer that overexpresses ErbB-2. The anti-vascular endothelial growth factor-A mAb bevacizumab is approved in combination with taxanes for treatment of unselected patients with metastatic breast cancer. In addition, preclinical data suggest that signaling inhibitors can prevent or overcome resistance to endocrine therapy in estrogen receptor positive (ER+) breast cancer. However, the majority of signaling inhibitors explored in breast cancer patients has shown little activity, at least when used as monotherapy; and the results of clinical trials in ER+ breast cancer of combinations of signaling inhibitors and endocrine therapies are rather disappointing. Negative findings are likely due to mechanisms of intrinsic or acquired resistance to target-based agents. Breast carcinoma is a complex and heterogeneous disease and several different molecular alterations are involved in its pathogenesis and progression. The redundancy of oncogenic pathways activated in cancer cells, the heterogeneity of the mechanisms of resistance, and the plasticity of tumor cells that are capable to adapt to different growth conditions, significantly hamper the efficacy of each signaling inhibitor in breast cancer. Therefore, a comprehensive approach that takes into account the complexity of the disease is definitely required to improve the efficacy of target-based therapy in breast cancer.
Buckling of Tubulars in Simulated Field Conditions
Authors: Menand S. , Sellami H. , Tijani M. , Akowanou J. , Simon C.
Published: June 2009

First, this paper presents the new developments integrated in a recently advanced model for drillstring mechanics and takes into account the buckling phenomenon in any actual well trajectory. Second, this paper shows the influence of tortuosity and friction on the buckling phenomenon for some practical and critical cases met in the drilling industry. These tortuosity and friction effects are demonstrated with an experimental setup that confirms theoretical features. Finally, we compare results obtained from existant models with results obtained from our new model to evaluate the tortuosity and friction effects on the critical buckling load found in the literature.
The Rhetorical Situations of Web Résumés
Authors: Killoran John B.
Published: June 2009

This article questions how professional communication genres already well established in print form have been changing as they are transplanted into digital media like the Web. Whereas some technology-oriented genre research has sought how a new medium provides genres with new technological features, this article argues that a more insightful approach would seek how a new medium, together with its users, provides genres with new rhetorical situations. To operationally define rhetorical situations, I adapt Lloyd Bitzer's three situational dimensions of exigence, audience, and constraints. Then, to illustrate how the new rhetorical situations of the Web can influence a genre, I explore the genre of the résumé. Drawing on a survey of 100 Web résumé authors and an analysis of their sites, I show that as each of the three dimensions of the résumé's traditional rhetorical situation has opened itself to greater diversity on the Web, the Web version of the résumé genre has correspondingly reoriented itself. Hence, genres change in response not just to the new medium's technology per se but to the new rhetorical situations that the medium hosts.
Writing an Introduction to the Introduction
Authors: Hartley James
Published: June 2009

Many authors give advice to students about how to write the Introduction section of their articles. Some give examples of different ways of doing this in general, and a few discuss the opening sentence in particular. In this article, 13 different types of opening sentences are outlined, and their usage contrasted in British and American journals in the Sciences and Social Sciences. Implications for teaching are considered.
ChemPAK Software Package as an Environment for Kinetics Scheme Evaluation
Authors: Chernykh Igor , Stoyanovskaya Olga , Zasypkina Olga
Published: June 2009

A new technology for the simulation of physico-chemical processes in reactive medium is suggested, which allows optimizing and adjusting kinetic schemes of chemical reactions. To implement the technology, a ChemPAK software tool, which is used to solve the primal problems of chemical kinetics, was developed. The proposed technological solution proved to be efficient in a series of studies. Schemes presented in the literature for the gas-phase pyrolysis of ethane and the Butlerov reaction of organic synthesis of sugars were considered along with their modifications.
A Bivariate Lognormal Response-Time Model for the Detection of Collusion Between Test Takers
Authors: van der Linden Wim J.
Published: June 2009

A bivariate lognormal model for the distribution of the response times on a test by a pair of test takers is presented. As the model has parameters for the item effects on the response times, its correlation parameter automatically corrects for the spuriousness in the observed correlation between the response times of different test takers because of variation in the time intensities of the items. This feature suggests using the model in a routine check of response-time patterns for possible collusion between test takers using an estimate of the correlation parameter or a statistical test of a hypothesis about it. Closed-form expressions for the maximum-likelihood estimations of the model parameters and a Lagrange multiplier test for the correlation parameter are presented. As in any type of statistical decision making, results from such procedures should be corroborated by evidence from other sources, for example, results from a response-based analysis or observations during the test session. The effectiveness of the model in removing the spuriousness from correlated response times is illustrated using empirical response-time data.
Use of Qualitative Research Methods in Natural Resources Management Studies: Sharing of Some Anthropological Experiences from the Ethnographic Study of Two Indigenous Irrigation Systems from Western Terai
Authors: Uprety Laya Prasad
Published: June 2009

doi: 10.3126/njqrm.v1i0.1969Keywords: Ethnographic Study; Natural Resources ManagementNepalese Journal of Qualitative Research Methods Vol.1 2007 pp.1-20
Use of Qualitative and Quantitative Research Methods in Poverty and Livelihood Study: Sharing of Some Anthropological Experiences from Academic Research in Western Tarai, Nepal
Authors: Prasain JN
Published: June 2009

doi: 10.3126/njqrm.v1i0.1970Keywords: Livelihood study; Poverty; anthropology Nepalese Journal of Qualitative Research Methods Vol.1 2007 pp.21-36
Application of Qualitative and Quantitative Research Methods in Development Domain: Sharing of Some Anthropological Experiences from Rural Development Projects
Authors: Timseena Bhanu
Published: June 2009

doi: 10.3126/njqrm.v1i0.1973Keywords: Development Domain; Rural Development Nepalese Journal of Qualitative Research Methods Vol.1 2007 pp.51-63
High-speed deformation of titanium during dynamic channel-angular pressing
Authors: Zel'dovich Vitaly , Shorokhov Eugeny , Frolova Natalya , Zhgiliev Igor , Kheifetz Alexey , Khomskaya Irina
Published: June 2009

A titanium sample was deformed using dynamic channel-angular pressing using a shock loading technique. The structural changes and the cracking behavior occurring during the high-speed deformation were studied by metallographic inspection. A geometrical method of determining the amount of uniform shear strain upon equal-channel angular pressing is suggested. The localized deformation leads to the appearance of adiabatic shear bands. Two types of adiabatic shear bands were observed that intersect the sample in either the longitudinal or transverse directions. The occurrence of recrystallization inside the bands indicates local heating of the material to 770 – 870 K. The morphology of the adiabatic shear bands can be described as a multilayer structure. The width of bands is up to 100 m.
Microstructural evolution of equal-channel angular pressed interstitial-free steel
Authors: Máthis Kristián , Krajnák Tomáš , Janeček Miloš , Dopita Milan , Seop Kim Hyoung
Published: June 2009

Equal-channel angular pressing (ECAP) belongs to advanced technologies for improving mechanical properties of materials. In the present work, the influence of the number of ECAP passes using route BC on both grain size and mechanical properties of interstitial-free steel was investigated by means of transmission electron microscopy, electron back-scattering diffraction, and microhardness testing. It was found that the grain size decreases with the increasing number of passes. At the same time, an increase in microhardness was observed. The evolution of microstructure with increasing strain imposed through ECAP, in particular the process of grain fragmentation and the formation of high-angle boundaries were also examined.
Preparation of ultrafine-grained twin-roll cast AlMg3 sheets by accumulative roll bonding
Authors: Homola Petr , Slámová† Margarita , Sláma Peter , Cieslar Miroslav , Karlík Miroslav
Published: June 2009

Accumulative roll bonding is a method for achieving grain refinement of metallic materials by severe plastic deformation, resulting in strength superior to that of conventionally manufactured sheets. The method has been successfully used by the authors to prepare bulk ultrafine-grained sheets from pure aluminium and several twin-roll cast aluminium alloys. The present paper summarizes the results of a study aimed at monitoring the evolution of microstructure and mechanical properties during the accumulative roll bonding process of a twin-roll cast AlMg3 (AW – 5754) alloy. Moreover, the annealing behaviour of the roll-bonded sheets is compared with the behaviour of conventionally rolled counterparts.
Study of the recrystallization of AW-5049 and AW-5754 twin-roll cast alloys by EBSD
Authors: Uhlíř Jaromír , Slámová† Margarita , Homola Petr
Published: June 2009

The paper presents the results of an investigation of the annealing response of sheets prepared from two twin-roll continuous cast aluminium – magnesium alloys. Sheets of 1 mm thickness prepared by cold rolling with 80 % reduction in thickness were annealed using an industrial regime with slow heating, holding at 350 °C and slow cooling. Hardness measurements and tensile tests allowed estimation of the magnitude of deformation recovery at different annealing stages. The evolution of the grain structure was studied by electron backscatter diffraction in a scanning electron microscope. The recrystallization in AW-5754 occurs at lower temperatures than in the AW-5049 material. The recrystallized grains are finer in the former alloy. The tensile properties of both AW-5754 and AW-5049 sheets are isotropic. Soft AW-5754 sheets exhibit less pronounced texture than AW-5049 ones.
Stability of microstructure in silver processed by severe plastic deformation
Authors: Gubicza Jenő , Chinh Nguyen Q. , Lábár János L. , Tichy Géza , Hegedűs Zoltán , Xu Cheng , Langdon Terence G.
Published: June 2009

The stability of the microstructure of pure silver processed by equal channel angular pressing at room temperature was studied by transmission electron microscopy and X-ray line profile analysis. After processing by 1 pass the microstructure was stable, whereas after 8 passes a static recovery/recrystallization of the severely deformed microstructure was observed a long time after deformation when the material was stored at room temperature. This unusual behavior is attributed to the high degree of dislocation dissociation due to the very low stacking fault energy of silver. The highly dissociated dislocations may be annihilated a long time after deformation due to thermal activation assisted by stresses which evolve in the severely deformed microstructures.
Effects of grain growth on microhardness and coercivity in electrodeposited nanocrystalline nickel
Authors: Vidrich Gabriele , Flejszar Aneta , Mielczarek Agnieszka , Riehemann Werner
Published: June 2009

Nickel specimens with various grain sizes were produced by electrochemical deposition. As-deposited pure nickel had a mean grain size of 300 nm. By dispersing nanoscaled SiO2- and Al2O3-particles in the electrolyte it was possible to reduce the grain size by incorporation of these particles into the growing nickel matrix. The grain sizes were 150 nm and 60 nm for the Al2O3- and SiO2-reinforced nanocomposite, respectively. Microhardness and coercivity of all samples were measured immediately after electrodeposition and after successive isochronal heat treatments with increasing annealing temperature. Grain growth of the samples could be observed by a decrease in hardness as well as coercivity with increasing annealing temperature.
ALCHEMI study of chromium doped iron-aluminides
Authors: Veselý Jozef , Cieslar Miroslav , Slámová Margarita
Published: June 2009

Mechanical properties of intermetallic iron-aluminides are strongly influenced by thermal pretreatment, stoichiometry and additional alloying elements.

In the present study samples of FeAl and FeAl alloyed with Cr annealed at different temperatures were investigated. A revised ALCHEMI technique (Atom Location by CHanneling Enhanced MIcroanalysis) was employed to study site occupancies. The orientation dependences of characteristic X-ray yields were measured. Dynamic electron diffraction conditions with the systematic row excitation (planar ALCHEMI) were used. Experimental data were fitted by a theoretical calculation based on Bloch wave method.

The distribution of elements on individual sublattices was obtained and preferential occupation of Al sites by Cr was confirmed.
Intermetallic compounds at the interface between Sn–Cu(–Ni) solders and Cu substrate
Authors: Harcuba Petr , Janeček Miloš , Slámová† Margarita
Published: June 2009

The influence of Cu content and Ni addition on the morphology and the growth kinetics of the intermetallic compound (IMC) layer formed at the interface of liquid Sn – Cu-based solders and the Cu substrate were investigated. The effects of temperature and reaction times on IMC morphology and thickness were studied. The reaction of a Sn-1.4Cu alloy with the substrate leads to the formation of a layer of Cu6Sn5 (-phase) of typical scallop morphology. At long reaction times, a Cu3Sn (-phase) is observed at the interface between the Cu substrate and the Cu6Sn5 layer. A small nickel addition to a Sn-0.6Cu alloy significantly changes the IMC morphology, accelerates its growth kinetics, prevents the formation of the Cu3Sn layer and reduces the rate of substrate dissolution. The effective activation energy of growth of the IMC layer in the Sn – Cu – Ni alloy was determined.
The effect of the microstructure on elastic properties of a polycrystalline stoichiometric NiAl
Authors: Witczak Przemysław , Witczak Zbigniew
Published: June 2009

Elastic constants for a polycrystalline stoichiometric NiAl intermetallic obtained via different processing routes were measured using ultrasonic methods. Samples having various porosity, (0 – 0.1), texture, and 0.2 – 200 μm grain size were produced by combined operations of casting or self-sustaining high-temperature synthesis, followed by hot hydrostatic extrusion and/or hot isostatic pressing. It was shown that the bulk modulus, as a quantity independent of crystallographic texture, depends on porosity according to an exponential relationship. Elastic properties of near theoretical density materials having various grain sizes were measured under high hydrostatic pressure ranging up to 1 GPa. Parameters of the equation of state were determined. The values of bulk moduli and their first pressure derivatives for the nanostructured material under investigation and of single crystals appeared to be the same.
Fracture behavior of Mg–Li matrix composites
Authors: Kúdela Stanislav , Wendrock Horst , Kúdela Stanislav , Pawełek Andrzej , Piątkowski Andrzej , Wetzig Klaus
Published: June 2009

Deformation and fracture of Saffil fiber (SF) reinforced Mg, Mg-8 wt.% Li and Mg-12 wt.% Li composites was monitored by means of in-situ scanning electron microscopy during 3-point bend tests. Mg and MgLi matrix composites (10 vol.% SF) were prepared by the melt infiltration technique. Poor interfacial bond causes premature failure of the SF/Mg composite that is usually triggered by the debonding of perpendicular fibers at the convex composite surface. Strong interfaces in SF/Mg12Li composite result in multiple cross-breakage of aligned fibers which is indicative of their participation in the composite strengthening. Resultant composite strengthening is frustrated by massive stress relaxation of the Mg12Li matrix. Strong interfaces and fairly high strength of the Mg8Li matrix cause remarkable strengthening of SF/Mg8Li composites. The cleavage of phases in two-phase Mg8Li matrix plays an insignificant role in the composite failure.
Ab-initio simulation of the tensile strength of silicon nanofilms
Authors: Umeno Yoshitaka
Published: June 2009

Investigations of the relation between atomic configuration and strength at atomic and electronic level are important not only for understanding the fundamental deformation behavior of materials but also for application of materials to nanostructured devices. In this study, simulation of tension of silicon nanofilms under tensile stress was carried out using ab initio density functional theory calculation to investigate the effect of surface structure on tensile strength. Nanofilms with various surface orientations were examined. The theoretical tensile strength of Si nanofilms with a thickness of around 1.0 nm having (100) surfaces, which are flat with dimer-row structure, was only slightly lower than that of bulk Si. In contrast, surfaces with rather high Miller indices can significantly reduce critical strain owing to surface steps, indicating that such atomic-level structure affects the strength quite strongly.
New properties of halogen plasma-treated Cu films
Authors: Pikulev Vitaly , Dictus Dries , Loginova Svetlana , Baklanov Mikhail R.
Published: June 2009

Luminescence activity and structure of halogen plasma-treated Cu films on Si substrate have been investigated. Peculiar photoluminescence signals in the range of 1.6 – 2.0 eV were detected both at low (from 77 to 15 K), and at room temperature. The observed luminescence peaks are not present for stoichiometric CuCl. The exposure of CuCl- and CuBr-containing layers to helium plasma, with UV-illumination, result in the formation of knots of twisted nanowires on the surface of these layers. These wires don't have luminescent activity. The accelerated degradation of luminescence of these samples in air in the presence of light illumination and ozone treatment was studied.
From Autoethnography to the Quotidian Ethnographer ‐ Analysing Organisations as Hypertexts
Authors: Coronado Gabriela
Published: June 2009

This paper is the result of a reflection on my personal experience while researching the politics of culture and identity in intercultural collaborations in Mexico. It deals with how autoethnography transformed my relationship with the way of doing research and particularly how a dream at the beginning of my ethnographic research changed my assumptions of my role as interpreter. Using the analysis of the dream as a guide for understanding the dynamics of intercultural organisations in Mexico, I conceptualised organisations as open systems whose meanings are organised and interlinked, forming hypertexts. I considered participants in those organisations, and myself, as quotidian ethnographers, able to create meanings and make sense of them for action. In that light, I listened to the stories from some organisations and ‘read’ their meanings by following the links between multiple representations, in different kinds of cultural narratives emerging from anywhere and manifested in any medium.
Effect of Cadmium Chloride on Metallothionein Levels in Carp
Authors: Kovarova Jana , Kizek Rene , Adam Vojtech , Harustiakova Danka , Celechovska Olga , Svobodova Zdenka
Published: June 2009

Due to anthropogenic activities, heavy metals still represent a threat for various trophic levels. If aquatic animals are exposed to heavy metals, we can obviously observe considerable toxicity. It is well known that organisms treated with heavy metals synthesize low molecular mass compounds rich in cysteine. In this work the effects of cadmium chloride (2.5, 5, 7.5, 10 and 12.5 mg/L) on common carp (Cyprinus carpio) was investigated. We determined cadmium content in tissue of muscle, liver and kidney by atomic absorption spectrometry with electrothermal atomization and content of metallothionein (MT) in the same tissues by the Brdicka reaction. Electrochemical methods can be considered as suitable and sensitive tools for MT determination in carp tissues. Results of our study showed a gradually enhancing of cadmium content in muscle with time and dose of cadmium chloride in water. MT levels in liver reached both high levels (above 130 ng/g) in fish exposed to 2.5, 5 and 7.5 mg/L and low level (to 50 ng/g) in fish exposed to 10 and 12.5 mg/L of cadmium chloride. This finding confirms that the synthesis of metallothioneins and binding capacity of these proteins is restricted.
Microfluidic Systems for Pathogen Sensing: A Review
Authors: Mairhofer Jürgen , Roppert Kriemhilt , Ertl Peter
Published: June 2009

Rapid pathogen sensing remains a pressing issue today since conventional identification methodsare tedious, cost intensive and time consuming, typically requiring from 48 to 72 h. In turn, chip based technologies, such as microarrays and microfluidic biochips, offer real alternatives capable of filling this technological gap. In particular microfluidic biochips make the development of fast, sensitive and portable diagnostic tools possible, thus promising rapid and accurate detection of a variety of pathogens. This paper will provide a broad overview of the novel achievements in the field of pathogen sensing by focusing on methods and devices that compliment microfluidics.
Palms (Arecaceae) from a Paleocene rainforest of northern Colombia
Authors: Gomez‐Navarro Carolina , Jaramillo Carlos , Herrera Fabiany , Wing Scott L. , Callejas Ricardo
Published: June 2009

Palms are a monophyletic group with a dominantly tropical distribution; however, their fossil record in low latitudes is strikingly scarce. In this paper, we describe fossil leaves, inflorescences, and fruits of palms from the middle to late Paleocene Cerrejón Formation, outcropping in the Ranchería River Valley, northern Colombia. The fossils demonstrate the presence of at least five palm morphospecies in the basin ca. 60 Ma. We compare the morphology of the fossils with extant palms and conclude that they belong to at least three palm lineages: the pantropical Cocoseae of the subfamily Arecoideae, the monotypic genus Nypa, and either Calamoideae or Coryphoideae. The fossil fruits and inflorescences are among the oldest megafossil records of these groups and demonstrate that the divergence of the Cocoseae was more than 60 Ma, earlier than has previously been thought. These fossils are useful in tracing the range expansion or contraction of historical or current neotropical elements and also have profound implications for the understanding of the evolution of neotropical rainforests.
Diagnosis of Raynaud’s Phenomenon by 99mTc-Hydroxymethylene Diphosphonate Digital Blood Flow Scintigraphy After One-hand Chilling
Authors: KWON SEONG-RYUL , LIM MIE-JIN , PARK SHIN-GOO , HYUN IN-YOUNG , PARK WON
Published: June 2009

Objective.

We introduce the use of 99mTc-hydroxymethylene diphosphonate (HDP) digital blood flow scintigraphy to diagnose Raynaud’s phenomenon (RP).

Methods.

Fifty-seven patients with RP and 60 healthy controls were recruited. One hand was chilled by immersion into water at 4°C, and then an intravenous bolus of 740 MBq of 99mTc-HDP was injected. The radioactivity from the second to the fifth fingers of both hands was recorded. Acquisition was performed at a rate of one frame per 2 seconds until 155 frames. We calculated 4 ratios by comparing the activity curves of the chilled hand with those of the ambient hand.

Results.

The chilled to ambient hand ratio of the initial slope was significantly lower in the patients with RP (0.28 ± 0.18) than in the controls (0.78 ± 0.20) (p < 0.001). The chilled to ambient hand ratio of the first peak height, 30-second area under the curve, and blood pool uptake were also lower in the patients with RP than in controls (p < 0.001 for each). The initial slope ratio of 0.51, used as a cutoff value, showed a sensitivity of 91.2% and specificity of 93.3%. The loss of the initial spike curve, the presence of a slowly progressing radioactivity curve, and the inhomogeneous radioactivity uptake in the blood pool image in either hand were characteristic findings of the patients with RP (p < 0.001).

Conclusion.

99mTc-HDP digital blood flow scintigraphy after one-hand chilling is a noninvasive, accurate, and quantitative method to evaluate RP.
The Presence of Limited Joint Mobility Is Significantly Associated with Multiple Digit Involvement by Stenosing Flexor Tenosynovitis in Diabetics
Authors: KAMEYAMA MAKOTO , MEGURO SHU , FUNAE OSAMU , ATSUMI YOSHIHITO , IKEGAMI HIROYASU
Published: June 2009

Objective.

Diabetes is associated with several disorders of the hand, including stenosing flexor tenosynovitis (SFTS). The feature of SFTS in diabetics is a higher prevalence of multiple digit involvement. We examined the magnitude of the tendency for involvement of more digits by SFTS in diabetic patients than in nondiabetic patients, and attempted to clarify the factors influencing multiple digit involvement by SFTS in diabetics.

Methods.

The study comprised 302 diabetic patients with SFTS and 235 nondiabetic patients with SFTS. The total number of digits exhibiting SFTS within the 1-year period following the initial visit to the Department of Orthopaedic Surgery was investigated in a prospective manner. We compared the difference in the frequency of multiple digit involvement by SFTS between diabetic and nondiabetic patients using the chi-squared test. Multiple regression analysis was performed to examine the contribution of independent variables [defined as 12 factors including age, sex, type of diabetes, estimated duration of diabetes, HbA1cvalues, carpal tunnel syndrome, Dupuytren contracture, limited joint mobility (LJM), de Quervain's disease, diabetic retinopathy, diabetic nephropathy, and dyslipidemia] to the total number of digits affected by SFTS in diabetic patients.

Results.

Diabetic patients showed a significantly higher prevalence of multiple digit involvement than nondiabetic patients (p < 0.0001). Multiple regression analysis in diabetic patients revealed that the presence of LJM was positively associated with the prevalence of multiple digit involvement (r = 0.626, p < 0.0001).

Conclusion.

LJM in diabetics is closely associated with SFTS involving multiple digits.
Cerebral Vasculopathy Is Associated with Severe Vascular Manifestations in Systemic Sclerosis
Authors: TERRIER BENJAMIN , CHARBONNEAU FRÉDÉRIQUE , TOUZÉ EMMANUEL , BEREZNE ALICE , PAGNOUX CHRISTIAN , SILVERA STÉPHANE , MEDER JEAN-FRANÇOIS , GUILLEVIN LOÏC , OPPENHEIM CATHERINE , MOUTHON LUC
Published: June 2009

Objective.

To investigate brain involvement in patients with systemic sclerosis (SSc).

Methods.

Sixty-three patients with SSc fulfilling the American College of Rheumatology and/or Leroy and Medsger criteria were retrospectively studied, including 30 (47.6%) with limited cutaneous and 27 (42.9%) with diffuse cutaneous SSc. Forty-one patients underwent computed tomography (CT) scan and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of the brain, 11 patients only CT scan, and the remaining 11 patients only MRI. Cerebral vasculopathy on MRI and CT scan was defined as absent or mild (score < 1), moderate (1 ≤ score < 2), or severe (score ≥ 2) on a 4-point scale (0 to 3).

Results.

Cerebral vasculopathy was identified on CT scan in 22 patients (moderate in 12 and severe in 10) and on MRI in 38 patients (moderate in 28 and severe in 10). Patients with severe cerebral vasculopathy seen on MRI were more likely to have pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH; p = 0.003) and showed a tendency to have scleroderma renal crisis (SRC; p = 0.25, test for trend p = 0.097). A similar association was found between severe cerebral vasculopathy seen on CT scan and PAH (p = 0.026) or SRC (p = 0.04). After adjusting for age and hypertension, severe cerebral vasculopathy was still associated with increased risk of severe vascular manifestations [odds ratio (OR) 32, 95% confidence interval (CI) 3.45–297, p = 0.002 for CT scan; OR 26, 95% CI 1.71–394, p = 0.019 for MRI].

Conclusion.

Severe cerebral vasculopathy is associated with severe vascular manifestations in SSc patients. SSc patients with severe vascular complications should undergo neuroradiological imaging assessment of brain involvement.
Is Screening for Hepatitis B and Hepatitis C Useful in Patients with Recent-Onset Polyarthritis? The ESPOIR Cohort Study
Authors: GUENNOC XAVIER , NARBONNE VALÉRIE , JOUSSE-JOULIN SANDRINE , DEVAUCHELLE-PENSEC VALERIE , DOUGADOS MAXIME , DAURÈS JEAN PIERRE , SARAUX ALAIN
Published: June 2009

Objective.

To evaluate the seroprevalence of hepatitis B (HBV) and C (HCV) in patients living in France with recent-onset polyarthritis suggesting rheumatoid arthritis.

Methods.

The 813 patients in the ESPOIR cohort were screened for anti-HCV antibodies and HBs antigen.

Results.

Seroprevalence was 0.86% for HCV (n = 7) and 0.12% for HBV (n = 1). HCV-related arthritis was diagnosed in 4 (0.5%) patients; no patient had HBV-related arthritis. HCV-seropositive patients had significantly higher transaminase levels (ALAT, 41.5 IU vs 23.2 IU, p = 0.02; and ASAT, 39.2 IU vs 21.8 IU, p = 0.001) but only 2 patients had ASAT or ALAT levels > 40 IU. No significant differences were found for anti-CCP antibodies, C-reactive protein, erythrocyte sedimentation rate, or other test. HCV seroprevalence was significantly higher in the subgroup with history of blood transfusion than in other patients (3.7% vs 0.42%, p = 0.02). Two of the 7 HCV positive patients and the single patient with confirmed hepatitis B infection were born in areas with higher prevalence of viral hepatitis (Togo, Senegal, Vietnam). Positive hepatitis status was known before study inclusion in 4 of the 7 HCV-positive patients and in the HBV-positive patient.

Conclusion.

The prevalence of HBV and HCV in a population of patients with recent-onset polyarthritis suggestive of RA was not greater than expected based on data from the general population in the same geographic area. Routine HBV and HCV serological testing did not contribute substantially to the diagnosis of recent-onset polyarthritis. Although advisable before initiating immunosuppressive or hepatotoxic drugs, serological testing for HCV and HBV is unnecessary in routine diagnostic evaluation of recent-onset polyarthritis.