bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Análise de rentabilidade de uma rede logística: novo método de cálculo
Authors: Costa Reinaldo Pacheco da , Abramczuk André A. , Yoshida Yoshizaki Hugo T. , Tsukamoto Hugo Yasuyuki
Published: December 2008

Este artigo apresenta um método de cálculo de rentabilidade econômica de unidades operacionais (UOs) de empresas de transporte de carga fracionada que operam através de uma rede logística com múltiplas UOs. O cálculo da rentabilidade econômica de cada uma destas UOs é um problema complexo. Devido ao intercâmbio de cargas entre UOs, as receitas de uma UO estão interligadas com as receitas de outras UOs. Os métodos tradicionais de contabilização enfrentam dificuldades quando empregados para determinar a rentabilidade econômica de UOs de uma rede logística de UOs interdependentes. O método descrito neste artigo elimina estas dificuldades por meio do conceito de margem de contribuição.
Donos demais: maestria e domínio na Amazônia
Authors: Fausto Carlos
Published: December 2008

O texto versa sobre certa categoria indígena - usualmente traduzida por "dono" ou "mestre" - que, na Amazônia, transcende em muito a simples expressão de uma relação de propriedade ou domínio. A categoria e seus recíprocos designam um modo generalizado de relação, que caracteriza interações entre humanos, entre não-humanos, entre humanos e não-humanos e entre pessoas e coisas. Trata-se de uma categoria-chave para a compreensão da sociologia e da cosmologia indígenas que, não obstante, recebeu relativamente pouca atenção. Esse texto visa explorar, a partir de um conjunto de evidências etnográficas, as conseqüências de imaginar-se o universo ameríndio como um mundo de donos e o dono como o modelo da pessoa magnificada, com o objetivo de discutir noções de posse, domínio e poder nas terras baixas da América do Sul.
Absence of the musculocutaneous nerve: a rare anatomical variation with possible clinical-surgical implications
Authors: Fregnani José Humberto Tavares Guerreiro , Macéa Maria Inez Marcondes , Pereira Celina Siqueira Barbosa , Barros Mirna Duarte , Macéa José Rafael
Published: December 2008

CONTEXT: The musculocutaneous nerve is one of the terminal branches of the lateral fasciculus of the brachial plexus, and is responsible for innervation of the flexor musculature of the elbow and for skin sensitivity on the lateral surface of the forearm. Its absence has been described previously, but its real prevalence is unknown. CASE REPORT: A case of absence of the musculocutaneous nerve that was observed during the dissection of the right arm of a male cadaver is described. The area of innervation was supplied by the median nerve. From this, three branches emerged: one to the coracobrachialis muscle, another to the biceps brachii muscle and the third to the brachialis muscle. This last branch continued as a lateral antebrachial cutaneous nerve. This is an anatomical variation that has clinical-surgical implications, considering that injury to the median nerve in this case would have caused unexpected paralysis of the flexor musculature of the elbow and hypoesthesia of the lateral surface of the forearm.
Cirripedia Balanomorpha del estuario del Río Paripe (Isla de Itamaracá, Pernambuco, Brasil)
Authors: Farrapeira Cristiane Maria Rocha
Published: December 2008

Los cirrípedos son animales característicos y abundantes en la región intermareal de los ambientes marinos y estuarinos de todo el mundo, pero son poco conocidos en las áreas de manglares tropicales. El presente estudio fue realizado con el objetivo de conocer las especies de cirrípedos en el estuario del Río Paripe (Pernambuco - Brasil), señalando algunas características de su distribución a lo largo del estuario. En la estación de estiaje de 2006, los animales fueron colectados en tres estaciones del estuario, en todos los substratos duros disponibles, observando su distribución vertical en los mismos. En la estación polihalina (salinidades variando de 28,7 hasta 36,1), se encontraron ocho especies: Amphibalanus amphitrite, A. improvisus, A. reticulatus, A. venustus, Chthamalus proteus, C. bisinuatus, Microeuraphia rhizophorae y Striatobalanus amaryllis. Las especies clasificadas como eurihalinas, encontradas hasta la región mesohalina del estuario (salinidades variando de 10,8 hasta 19,6) fueran: Amphibalanus amphitrite, A. improvisus, A. reticulatus, Chthamalus proteus y Microeuraphia rhizophorae, mientras que en la región oligohalina (salinidades variando de 0,2 hasta 5,2), solamente M. rhizophorae estuvo presente, sendo por tanto, clasificada como componente estuarino. Una zonación horizontal de especies de cirrípedos fue claramente observada a partir de la desembocadura hasta al montante del río, con disminución gradual del número de especies y fue confirmado su padrón de distribución vertical en relación a las alturas de mareas, observadas las respectivas valencias ecológicas. Las especies exóticas introducidas en Brasil, Amphibalanus reticulatus y Striatobalanus amaryllis, estaban bien adaptadas en los substratos naturales y artificiales del estuario.
A new species of Notalina Mosely, 1936 (Trichoptera: Leptoceridae) from Chapada dos Veadeiros National Park, Goiás state, Brazil
Authors: Calor Adolfo Ricardo
Published: December 2008

The endemic Neotropical long-horned caddisfly subgenus Notalina (Neonotalina) Holzenthal contains nine described species in two species groups, the brasiliana and roraima groups, from the Brazilian Southeastern and Amazonian regions, respectively. In this paper, a new species of Notalina in the brasiliana species group, from Chapada dos Veadeiros National Park, Goiás state, Brazil, is described and illustrated. The new species is easily recognized by the following character set: presence of two pairs of processes on abdominal segment X; presence of well-developed basoventral protuberances, mesally directed in ventral view; presence of triangle-shaped, acuminated mesoventral process on the inferior appendages; and phallic apparatus with flanges slightly curved in dorsal view, not laterally directed.
Composição e ameaças à conservação dos anfíbios anuros do Parque Estadual de Itapeva, município de Torres, Rio Grande do Sul, Brasil
Authors: Colombo Patrick , Kindel Andreas , Vinciprova Giovanni , Krause Ligia
Published: December 2008

A obtenção de listas de espécies constitui-se no primeiro passo para o desenvolvimento de estratégias de conservação. O Parque Estadual de Itapeva (PEVA) é uma unidade de conservação localizada numa estreita faixa entre a RS-389 (Estrada do Mar), e a praia de Itapeva, no município de Torres, extremo norte da planície costeira do Rio Grande do Sul (29º 21' S e 49º 45' W). No Parque, observa-se a presença de grandes dunas móveis, dunas fixas, floresta paludosa, campos, floresta de restinga, banhados e riachos. Os objetivos deste trabalho são: fornecer uma listagem de espécies de anuros do PEVA, informar os ambientes em que foram encontradas e identificar as ameaças a estes anfíbios na área do Parque. O inventariamento da anurofauna estendeu-se de março de 2000 a março de 2003. As campanhas tiveram freqüência mensal no período de maio de 2000 a março de 2001, e após este período foram realizadas oito campanhas adicionais. As amostragens tiveram a duração média de duas noites e dois dias, envolvendo a visita periódica a todos os ambientes com ocorrência potencial de anfíbios anuros, concentrando-se em áreas alagadas, açudes, poças temporárias, arroios, córregos e outros corpos d'água. As coletas noturnas geralmente iniciavam-se às 20 horas e terminavam às 23 horas. Durante o dia os anuros eram procurados sob troncos, pedras, telhas e em locais próximos a residências. Oito ambientes foram amostrados: dunas primárias (DP), banhados (BD), dunas móveis (DM), dunas fixas (DF), campos alagadiços (CA), capoeira (CP), mata paludosa (MP) e campos secos (CS). Foram registradas 29 espécies de anuros das famílias Hylidae (11 spp.), Leiuperidae (6 spp.), Bufonidae (4 spp.), Leptodactylidae (3 spp.), Brachycephalidae (2 spp.), Cycloramphidae (1 sp.), Microhylidae (1 sp.) e Ranidae (1 sp.). O PEVA, até o momento, é o local com o terceiro maior número de espécies de anuros do Rio Grande do Sul. Duas espécies estão ameaçadas de extinção no Rio Grande do Sul, Haddadus binotatus e Melanophryniscus dorsalis. Os principais fatores de ameaça à anurofauna do Parque Estadual de Itapeva e do seu entorno são a fragmentação e a drenagem da floresta paludosa, e a degradação de áreas alagadas.
Tuberculose e silicose: epidemiologia, diagnóstico e quimioprofilaxia
Authors: Barboza Carlos Eduardo Galvão , Winter Daniel Hugo , Seiscento Márcia , Santos Ubiratan de Paula , Terra Filho Mário
Published: December 2008

A silicose, a mais prevalente das pneumoconioses, é provocada pela inalação de partículas de sílica cristalina. Indivíduos expostos à sílica, com ou sem silicose, apresentam risco aumentado de tuberculose e de micobacterioses não-tuberculosas. O risco de silicóticos desenvolverem tuberculose em relação a controles sadios varia de 2,8 a 39 vezes, em conformidade com a gravidade da doença de base. Têm sido estudados diferentes esquemas de quimioprofilaxia para tuberculose em silicóticos, todos com eficácia semelhante e com redução final de risco para cerca da metade em relação ao uso de placebo. São, no entanto, esquemas de longa duração, o que, acrescido dos possíveis efeitos colaterais (particularmente hepatotoxicidade), podem prejudicar a aderência. As diretrizes atuais recomendam a realização de prova tuberculínica e, se positiva, a instituição de quimioprofilaxia. São vários os esquemas possíveis, tanto em termos de drogas quanto de duração. Nossa recomendação é de que se use isoniazida na dose de 300 mg/dia (ou 10 mg/kg/dia) por seis meses para os indivíduos com silicose ou sadios com exposição superior a 10 anos, se forem reatores fortes à prova tuberculínica (induração > 10 mm). São necessários, no entanto, novos estudos para que indicações, drogas, doses e duração da profilaxia sejam definidas mais apropriadamente.
Diretrizes para a prevenção, diagnóstico e tratamento da hiperidrose compensatória
Authors: Lyra Roberto de Menezes , Campos José Ribas Milanez de , Kang Davi Wen Wei , Loureiro Marcelo de Paula , Furian Marcos Bessa , Costa Mário Gesteira , Coelho Marlos de Souza
Published: December 2008

Com o objetivo de se estabelecer diretrizes para a prevenção, o diagnóstico e o tratamento da hiperidrose compensatória, foram realizadas reuniões consensuais com a participação de cirurgiões torácicos filiados à Sociedade Brasileira de Cirurgia Torácica e um cirurgião geral em que foram abordados tópicos de modo a abranger conhecimentos multidisciplinares. A partir de textos recentes com diretrizes para a prevenção, o diagnóstico e tratamento (clínico e cirúrgico) da hiperidrose compensatória, e baseados em revisão bibliográfica, os participantes elaboraram um texto preliminar, cujas recomendações foram submetidas à aprovação dos participantes, possibilitando uma revisão geral do texto final. Deste modo, obteve-se um texto básico que, veiculado pela internet, tornou-se objeto de novas correções e revisões até alcançar a forma final atual.
Linfangioma cístico do mediastino
Authors: Correia Filipa Maria Arruda Viveiros , Seabra Bárbara , Rego Ana , Duarte Raquel , Miranda José
Published: December 2008

O linfangioma cístico é um tumor congênito benigno e raro. Resulta da proliferação focal de tecido linfático bem diferenciado com origem num anormal desenvolvimento do sistema linfático. A maioria ocorre em crianças ou adultos jovens nos sacos linfáticos primordiais. Geralmente ocorrem no pescoço (75%) e na região axilar (20%). Apenas 1% desses são localizados no mediastino. Os linfangiomas adquiridos, principalmente encontrados em adultos de meia-idade, são conseqüentes a um processo de obstrução linfática crônica secundária a cirurgia, infecção crônica ou radiação. Os autores apresentam um caso clínico de linfangioma cístico do mediastino num indivíduo do sexo masculino de 50 anos, detectado por achado em radiografia de tórax de rotina.
Design and operating experiences of municipal MBRs in Europe
Authors: Itokawa H. , Thiemig C. , Pinnekamp J.
Published: December 2008

The number of membrane bioreactor (MBR) installations is increasing worldwide, not only for small-scale industrial WWTPs but also for larger-scale municipal WWTPs. In Europe, MBR has been installed in municipal WWTPs since late 1990s, and more than 100 full-scale plants are operated at the moment. In this paper, present state of European municipal MBRs is described in terms of design and operating conditions, as well as operating problems and their solutions, based on the information collected from 17 full-scale WWTPs by interview and questionnaire survey. Decisive factors of MBR installation at these plants were footprint and effluent quality. Full-aerobic and pre-denitrification were the most common reactor configurations, nearly half of them being equipped with independent filtration tanks. Operating conditions of bioreactor and filtration, including membrane flux and cleaning strategy, were different from plant to plant, as a result of plant-specific optimization experiences, even among the similar type of membrane. Operating problems specific for MBR were reported, including blocking/failure of pre-screen, sludging/hair-clogging of membrane, damage on membrane unit, air in permeate pipes, as well as conventional troubles including occurrence of scum and initial trouble in instrumentation and control systems. Aspects for further optimization of MBR design were also pointed out by the operators.
Biofilm formation by a biotechnologically important tropical marine yeast isolate, Yarrowia lipolytica NCIM 3589
Authors: Dusane D. H. , Nancharaiah Y. V. , Venugopalan V. P. , Kumar A. R. , Zinjarde S. S.
Published: December 2008

Biofilm formation by Yarrowia lipolytica, a biotechnologically important fungus in microtitre plates, on glass slide surfaces and in flow cell was investigated. In microtitre plates, there was a short lag phase of adhesion followed by a period of rapid biofilm growth. The fungus formed extensive biofilms on glass slides, whereas in flow-cells a multicellular, three-dimensional microcolony structure was observed. The isolate formed biofilms in seawater and in fresh water media at neutral pH when grown in microtitre plates. The carbon sources differentially affected formation of biofilms in microtitre plates. Lactic acid, erythritol, glycerol, glucose and edible oils supported the formation of biofilms, while alkanes resulted in sub-optimal biofilm development. A variation in the morphology of the fungus was observed with different carbon sources. The results point to the possible existence of highly structured biofilms in varied ecological niches from where the yeast is isolated.
Experimental and Computational Studies of Turbulent Mass Transfer in a Mixing Channel
Authors: Hjertager Osenbroch Lene K. , Hjertager Bjorn H. , Solberg Tron
Published: December 2008

Experiments are carried out for passive mixing in order to obtain local mean and turbulent velocities and concentrations. The mixing takes place in a square channel with two inlets separated by a block. A combined PIV/PLIF technique is used to obtain instantaneous velocity and concentration fields. Three different flow cases are studied. The 2D numerical predictions of the mixing channel show that none of the k - ? turbulence models tested is suitable for the flow cases studied here. The turbulent Schmidt number is reduced to obtain a better agreement between the measured and predicted mean and fluctuating concentrations. The multi-peak presumed PDF mixing model is tested and comparisons with experiments are encouraging.
Protection System Monitoring in Electric Networks with Embedded Generation Using Petri Nets
Authors: Calderaro Vito , Galdi Vincenzo , Piccolo Antonio , Siano Pierluigi
Published: December 2008

The connection of distributed generation (DG) essentially changes the distribution network operation and creates a range of well-documented effects varying the voltage levels and short circuit currents. Among others, DG can alter protection system operations in distribution networks, leading to the failure of reclosing, the disconnection of the healthy feeder or the prevention of a protection operation. This paper proposes a procedure, based on Petri nets and supported by a centralized monitoring architecture, for monitoring failures of the protection systems in radial distribution networks. Some case studies applied to a real Italian distribution network proved the effectiveness of the proposed procedure that can therefore represent an effective solution to improve distribution systems reliability in the presence of DG.
Star/Hexagon Transformer Based Three-Phase Four-Wire DSTATCOM for Power Quality Improvement
Authors: Singh Bhim , Pychadathil Jayaprakash , Kothari Dwarkadas Pralhaddas
Published: December 2008

A new topology of DSTATCOM (distribution static compensator) is proposed for power quality improvement in three-phase four-wire distribution systems. A three-leg VSC (Voltage Source Converter) is integrated with a star/hexagon transformer for the compensation of reactive power for voltage regulation or for power factor correction along with load balancing, elimination of harmonics currents and neutral current compensation. The star/hexagon connected transformer provides a path to the zero sequence current in a three-phase four-wire distribution system. In order to optimize the voltage rating of the VSC, the star/hexagon transformer is designed to have a suitable voltage rating for the secondary windings for integrating the three-leg VSC. This transformer connection provides the selection of 'off the shelf' VSC for this application and it also provides isolation for the VSC system. The performance of the proposed DSTATCOM system is validated through simulations using MATLAB software with its Simulink and Power System Block set (PSB) toolboxes.
The Drying Constant and its Effect on the Shrinkage Constant of Different-Shaped Food Particulates
Authors: Senadeera Wijitha
Published: December 2008

Experiments were undertaken to study the relationship between the drying constant and the shrinkage constant of food products during drying. Three particular geometrical shapes of parallelepiped, cylindrical and spheres were selected from potatoes (aspect ratio = 1:1, 2:1, 3:1), cut beans (length: diameter = 1:1, 2:1, 3:1) and peas, respectively. The volumetric shrinkage behaviour and drying behaviour of food particulates were studied in a batch fluidised bed dryer connected to a heat pump dehumidifier system at three different drying temperatures of 30, 40 and 50 °C. Shrinkage constant was evaluated with non-dimensional moisture and compared with the drying constant for all materials at these three temperatures to understand the effects of the drying constant on the shrinkage constant for each material under investigated drying conditions. Simple mathematical models were obtained for the relationship between the volumetric shrinkage constant and the drying constant.
Sorption of Cr(VI) onto Cystoseira indica: Comparison of Regression Methods for Isotherms and Biomass Minimization
Authors: Basha Shaik , Murthy Z.V.P. , Jha B.
Published: December 2008

A comparison between linear least-squares method and non-linear regression method of the widely used equilibrium isotherms (Langmuir, Freundlich and Redlich-Peterson) for the sorption of Cr(VI) onto Cystoseira indica, which was chemically-modified by cross-linking with epichlorohydrin (CB1, CB2), or oxidized by potassium permanganate (CB3), or only washed by distilled water (RB) was examined. The biosorption equilibriums were established in about 2 h and the maximum removal was observed at pH 3.0 with solid to liquid ratio of 0.05 g/l. The four different linearized forms of Langmuir isotherms are also discussed. Langmuir isotherm parameters obtained from the four Langmuir linear equations are different but they are the same by using non-linear Langmuir equation. The best-fitting isotherms are Langmuir and Redlich-Peterson. The present investigation showed that the non-linear method is the more appropriate method to determine the isotherm parameters. A design procedure was proposed using the Langmuir isotherm to design a two stage sorption system to minimize the amount of biomass required for the treatment of Cr(VI) solution using Cystoseira indica. A two stage sorption system reduced the amount of biomass required by 51.2, 50.7, 51.1 and 51.3%, for CB1, CB2, CB3 and RB, respectively, to achieve the required amount of Cr(VI) removal for any solution volume.
Academic Research on Communications Among External Auditors, the Audit Committee, and the Board: Implications and Recommendations for Practice
Authors: Cohen Jeffrey , Gaynor Lisa Milici , Krishnamoorthy Ganesh , Wright Arnold M.
Published: December 2008

SUMMARY: This article provides a summary of the academic research findings on the attributes of effective audit committees and potential threats to financial reporting quality that should lead to heightened auditor and audit committee sensitivity. The practice implications of this research are then discussed in terms of appropriate communications among auditors, audit committees, and boards of directors.
Lipid and Lipoprotein Profiles in Youth With and Without Type 1 Diabetes
Authors: Guy John , Ogden Lorraine , Wadwa R. Paul , Hamman Richard F. , Mayer-Davis Elizabeth J. , Liese Angela D. , D'Agostino Ralph , Marcovina Santica , Dabelea Dana
Published: December 2008

OBJECTIVE—The purpose of this study was to compare the lipid profile and the prevalence of lipid abnormalities in youth with and without type 1 diabetes and explore the role of glycemic control on the hypothesized altered lipid profile in youth with type 1 diabetes.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS—We conducted a cross-sectional analysis of 512 youth with type 1 diabetes (mean duration 4.22 years) and 188 healthy control subjects aged 10–22 years in Colorado and South Carolina. SEARCH for Diabetes in Youth (SEARCH) participants with type 1 diabetes and healthy control subjects recruited from primary care offices in the same geographic regions were invited to attend a research visit. Fasting lipid profiles were compared between youth with type 1 diabetes (stratified according to categories of optimal [A1C <7.5%] and suboptimal [A1C ≥7.5%] glycemic control) and healthy nondiabetic youth, using multiple linear and logistic regression.

RESULTS—Youth with type 1 diabetes and optimal A1C had lipid concentrations that were similar (total cholesterol, LDL cholesterol, and LDL particle size) or even less atherogenic (HDL cholesterol, non-HDL cholesterol, triglyceride, and triglyceride–to–HDL cholesterol ratio) than those observed in nondiabetic youth, whereas youth with suboptimal glycemic control had elevated standard lipid levels (total cholesterol, LDL cholesterol, and non-HDL cholesterol). Youth with type 1 diabetes also had significantly elevated apolipoprotein B levels and more small, dense LDL particles than nondiabetic youth, regardless of glycemic control.

CONCLUSIONS—Youth with type 1 diabetes have abnormal lipid levels and atherogenic changes in lipoprotein composition, even after a relatively short disease duration. As in adults, glycemic control is an important mediator of these abnormalities.
Acheron, an novel LA antigen family member, binds to cask and forms a complex with id transcription factors
Authors: Weng Haifeng , Kim Chul , Valavanis Christos , Wang Zhaohui , Schwartz Lawrence
Published: December 2008

Acheron, a Lupus antigen ortholog, was identified as a novel death-associated transcript from the intersegmental muscles of the mothManduca sexta. Acheron is phylogenetically-conserved and represents a new sub-family of Lupus antigen proteins. Acheron is expressed predominantly in neurons and muscle in vertebrates, and regulates several developmental events including myogenesis, neurogenesis and possibly metastasis. Using Acheron as bait, we performed a yeast two-hybrid screen with a mouse embryo cDNA library and identified CASK-C, a novel CASK/Lin-2 isoform, as an Acheron binding partner. Acheron and CASK-C bind via the C-terminus of Acheron and the CaMKII-like domain of CASK-C. Co-immunoprecipitation assays verify this interaction and demonstrate that Acheron also forms a complex with all members of the Id (inhibitor of differentiation) proteins. Taken together, these data suggest a mechanism by which Acheron may regulate development and pathology.
Models of Secondary School Students’ Interest in Homework: A Multilevel Analysis
Authors: Xu Jianzhong
Published: December 2008

This aim of this study was to test empirical models of variables posited to predict homework interest at the secondary school level. Student- and class-level predictors of homework interest were analyzed in a survey of 1,046 8th graders from 63 classes and of 849 11th graders from 48 classes. Most of the variance in homework interest occurred at the student level, with grade level appearing as the only significant predictor at the class level. At the student level, the variation in homework interest was positively associated with affective attitude toward homework, motivational orientation toward homework, student initiative in monitoring homework motivation, teacher feedback, and self-reported grade. Girls reported statistically significant higher scores in homework interest than did boys.
Youth Crime Rates and the Youth Justice System
Authors: Sprott Jane B. , Doob Anthony N.
Published: December 2008

An examination of variation across provinces in self-reported violent and property offending by Canadian youths demonstrates considerably less variation than the rate of police-recorded contacts with youths or the rate of use of youth court for these youths. Official measures of offending by youths in Canada are probably best seen as reflections of the behaviour of adults in deciding how to respond to offending by youths, rather than of the behaviour of youths.
Large-scale Models Reveal the Two-component Mechanics of Striated Muscle
Authors: Jarosch Robert
Published: December 2008

This paper provides a comprehensive explanation of striated muscle mechanics and contraction on the basis of filament rotations. Helical proteins, particularly the coiled-coils of tropomyosin, myosin and α-actinin, shorten their H-bonds cooperatively and produce torque and filament rotations when the Coulombic net-charge repulsion of their highly charged side-chains is diminished by interaction with ions. The classical “two-component model” of active muscle differentiated a “contractile component” which stretches the “series elastic component” during force production. The contractile components are the helically shaped thin filaments of muscle that shorten the sarcomeres by clockwise drilling into the myosin cross-bridges with torque decrease (= force-deficit). Muscle stretch means drawing out the thin filament helices off the cross-bridges under passive counterclockwise rotation with torque increase (= stretch activation). Since each thin filament is anchored by four elastic α-actinin Z-filaments (provided with forceregulating sites for Ca2+ binding), the thin filament rotations change the torsional twist of the four Z-filaments as the “series elastic components”. Large scale models simulate the changes of structure and force in the Z-band by the different Z-filament twisting stages A, B, C, D, E, F and G. Stage D corresponds to the isometric state. The basic phenomena of muscle physiology, i. e. latency relaxation, Fenn-effect, the force-velocity relation, the length-tension relation, unexplained energy, shortening heat, the Huxley-Simmons phases, etc. are explained and interpreted with the help of the model experiments.
Methyl Mercapturate Synthesis: An Efficient, Convenient and Simple Method
Authors: Cossec Benoît , Cosnier Frédéric , Burgart Manuella
Published: December 2008

A safe and simple method for methyl S-arylmercapturate synthesis is described. Thirteen such compounds, to be used afterwards in metabolism studies, have been obtained with yields ranging from 71 to 99.6%. These compounds were obtained using a sulfa-Michael addition and synthesized by adding the corresponding thiophenols to a mixture composed of methyl 2-acetamidoacrylate (MAA), potassium carbonate and a phase transfer catalyst, Aliquat 336. MAA, the initial synthon, was itself isolated in quasi quantitative yield following a fully described synthesis.
Molecular Weight and Monosaccharide Composition of Astragalus Polysaccharides
Authors: Xu Du-Juan , Xia Quan , Wang Jia-Jia , Wang Pei-Pei
Published: December 2008

Two polysaccharides (APS-I and APS-II) were isolated from the water extract of Radix Astragali and purified through ethanol precipitation, deproteination and by ion-exchange and gel-filtration chromatography. Their molecular weight was determined using high performance liquid chromatography and gel permeation chromatography (HPLC-GPC) and their monosaccharide composition was analyzed by TLC and HPLC methods, using a refractive index detector (RID) and an NH2 column. It was shown that APS-I consisted of arabinose and glucose and APS-II consisted of rhamnose, arabinose and glucose, in a molar ratio of 1:3.45 and 1:6.25:17.86, respectively. The molecular weights (Mw) of APS-I and APS-II were 1,699,100 Da and 1,197,600 Da, respectively.
Design and Synthesis of Bis-amide and Hydrazide-containing Derivatives of Malonic Acid as Potential HIV-1 Integrase Inhibitors
Authors: Sechi Mario , Azzena Ugo , Delussu Maria Paola , Dallocchio Roberto , Dessì Alessandro , Cosseddu Alessia , Pala Nicolino , Neamati Nouri
Published: December 2008

HIV-1 integrase (IN) is an attractive and validated target for the development of novel therapeutics against AIDS. In the search for new IN inhibitors, we designed and synthesized three series of bis-amide and hydrazide-containing derivatives of malonic acid. We performed a docking study to investigate the potential interactions of the title compounds with essential amino acids on the IN active site.
A taxonomic study of Albizia (Leguminosae: Mimosoideae: Ingeae) in Mexico and Central America
Authors: Rico Arce María de Lourdes , Gale S. L. , Maxted N.
Published: December 2008

The genus Albizia is economically and environmentally important because many elements are multipurpose trees. A taxonomic study of 12 Central American and Mexican Albizia species is presented. Identification keys, illustrations and ecological information are provided together with some taxonomic comments. Distribution maps and conservation status are given for each native species in the area. Three epithets are lectotypyfied and three new name combinations are made. An interactive identification electronic key is available from the authors if requested. Full specimen records are available at www.kew.org/herbcat .
Meriania franciscana (Melastomataceae), a new species of the Andes of Ecuador
Authors: Ulloa Ulloa Carmen , Homeier Jürgen
Published: December 2008

Meriania franciscana C. Ulloa & Homeier (Melastomataceae) from the southeastern province of Zamora-Chinchipe, Ecuador, is described and illustrated. It is distinguished by the markedly dimorphic stamens, the connective of the antipetalous anthers prominently thickened and with two appendages, one subulate and the other oblongoid, the inflorescence with numerous flowers of c. 15 mm. It is only known form the Andean forests at the San Francisco Biological Reserve.
DESIGN AND CLINICAL EVALUATION FOR PATIENT STATUS MONITORING SYSTEM OF AIR-MATTRESS
Authors: Chen Chiou-Fan , Luh Jer-Junn , Cheng Yao-Ming , Yu Ching-Liang , Chen Shu-Fen , Yu Chun
Published: December 2008

Pressure ulcers are commonly seen in long-term-care and bedridden patients. A common strategy to prevent pressure ulcer is the use of air mattress system. However, the effectiveness of the air mattress system is still under debate. In this study, we tried to design a system to collect the data of temperature, humidity, and interface pressure from the interface between patient and mattress. This system contained a maximum of ten sets of sensors which combined a thermistor, a humidity sensor, and a force sensitivity resistor in a socket and controlled by a MPS430 microcontroller. Data were transmitted to host computer by RS232 interface. To validate this system, a clinical evaluation experiment was performed using two different mattresses — a standard hospital mattress and a low-air-loss mattress. Twenty subjects lied on two different mattresses each for 2 h while monitoring temperature, humidity, and interface pressure at the sacral region continuously with 0.5 Hz sampling rate and averaging each 5 min epochs. The results showed that using a low-air-loss air mattress could reduce about 9 mmHg and 1°C in interface pressure and temperature (p < 0.05). However, there was no significant difference in humidity between the two mattress systems.
Synthesis of 5‐Formyl‐2′‐Deoxyuridine and Its Incorporation into Oligodeoxynucleotides
Authors: Sato Kousuke , Hirose Wataru , Matsuda Akira
Published: December 2008

A straightforward, efficient method for the synthesis of 5‐formyl‐2′‐deoxyuridine (dfU) and solid‐phase synthesis of oligodeoxynucleotides containing dfU using a phosphoramidite method are described. The synthesis of dfU is achieved by oxidation of the 5‐methyl group in thymidine derivatives. However, incorporation of the dfU 3′‐O‐phosphoramidite into oligodeoxynucleotides proceeds in low yield, due to instability of the 5‐formyl group under conditions used for automated DNA synthesis. Therefore, oligodeoxynucleotides containing a 5‐(1,2‐dihydroxyethyl)uracil derivative are first prepared and finally oxidized by periodate to give the desired oligodeoxynucleotides containing 5‐formyluracil. Curr. Protoc. Nucleic Acid Chem. 35:1.21.1‐1.21.19. © 2008 by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Monitoring mRNA Export
Authors: Tokunaga Kazuaki , Tani Tokio
Published: December 2008

Transport of mRNA from the nucleus to the cytoplasm is an essential process for gene expression in eukaryotic cells. In this unit, methods for monitoring nuclear mRNA export are described. Visualization of cellular mRNAs by fluorescence in situ hybridization with oligo(dT) probes is effectively applied to monitoring mRNA export from the nucleus in yeast and mammalian cells. In addition to the protocols for fluorescence in situ hybridization, this unit includes an alternate method that the authors have been developing for visual analysis of nuclear mRNA export in living mammalian cells by microinjection of fluorescently labeled pre‐mRNA into the nuclei. Curr. Protoc. Cell Biol. 41:22.13.1‐22.13.20. © 2008 by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Lithium‐Catalyzed Dehydrogenation of Ammonia Borane within Mesoporous Carbon Framework for Chemical Hydrogen Storage
Authors: Li Li , Yao Xiangdong , Sun Chenghua , Du Aijun , Cheng Lina , Zhu Zhonghua , Yu Chengzhong , Zou Jin , Smith Sean C. , Wang Ping , Cheng Hui‐Ming , Frost Ray L. , (Max) Lu Gao Qing
Published: December 2008

Ammonia borane (AB) has attracted tremendous interest for on‐board hydrogen storage due to its low molecular weight and high gravimetric hydrogen capacity below a moderate temperature. However, the slow kinetics, irreversibility, and formation of volatile materials (trace borazine and ammonia) limit its practical application. In this paper, a new catalytic strategy involved lithium (Li) catalysis and nanostructure confinement in mesoporous carbon (CMK‐3) for the thermal decomposition of AB is developed. AB loaded on the 5% Li/CMK‐3 framework releases ∼7 wt % of hydrogen at a very low temperature (around 60 °C) and entirely suppresses borazine and ammonia emissions that are harmful for proton exchange membrane fuel cells. The possible mechanism for enhanced hydrogen release via catalyzed thermal decomposition of AB is discussed.
Bifunctional Gd2O3/C Nanoshells for MR Imaging and NIR Therapeutic Applications
Authors: Huang Chih‐Chia , Su Chia‐Hao , Li Wei‐Ming , Liu Tzu‐Yu , Chen Jyh‐Horng , Yeh Chen‐Sheng
Published: December 2008

This paper reports dual function Gd2O3/C nanoshells for application in MR contrast images and NIR‐triggered killing cancer cells. The nanoshells are prepared using biological gelatin particles as core templates through a two‐step thermal treatment. The surfaces of the nanoshells can be readily modified by poly(styrene‐alt‐maleic acid) (PSMA) polymer to improve their water‐dispersible properties and increase their biocompatibility. The Gd2O3/C nanoshells show brightened images of kidney cortex and liver in mice, whereas the Gd2O3/C@PSMA nanoshells show a darkened liver signal. The biodistribution is measured as a function of time and shows that the nanoshells circulate in the vessels and are cleared out gradually from organs. The graphite carbon coated on the Gd2O3 nanoshells displays absorbance in the near‐IR (NIR) region. A large extinction coefficient is obtained, indicating the potential of the nanoshells as photothermal agents. The Gd2O3/C@PSMA nanoshells conjugated with anti‐epithermal growth factor receptor antibodies are used for targeting and destroying A549 lung cancer cells by means of NIR‐triggered killing capability. Both laser power density and material dose dependence are investigated to evaluate photothermolysis in cancer cells.
Pigmentation in Anuran Testes: Anatomical Pattern and Variation
Authors: Franco‐Belussi Lilian , Zieri Rodrigo , De Souza Santos Lia Raquel , Moresco Rafaela Maria , De Oliveira Classius
Published: December 2008

In amphibians, pigmented cells are present in several organs, composing an extracutaneous pigmentary system. Seventeen species from two families were studied to develop a protocol for pigmentary classification. The amount and distribution of these cells are variable, allowing the establishment of anatomical patterns for visceral pigmentation in anuran testes. Anat Rec 2009. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Embryonic Staging System for the Black Mastiff Bat,Molossus rufus(Molossidae), Correlated With Structure‐Function Relationships in the Adult
Authors: Nolte Mark J. , Hockman Dorit , Cretekos Chris J. , Behringer Richard R. , Rasweiler John J.
Published: December 2008

An embryonic staging system forMolossus rufus(also widely known asMolossus ater) was devised using 17 reference specimens obtained during the postimplantation period of pregnancy from wild‐caught, captive‐bred females. This was done in part by comparing the embryos to a developmental staging system that had been created for another, relatively unrelated bat,Carollia perspicillata(family Phyllostomidae). Particular attention was paid to the development of species‐specific features, such as wing and ear morphology, and these are discussed in light of the adaptive significance of these structures in the adult.M. rufuscan be maintained and bred in captivity and is relatively abundant in the wild. This embryonic staging system will facilitate further developmental studies ofM. rufus, a model species for one of the largest and most successful chiropteran families, the Molossidae. Anat Rec, 2009. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Acetogenic bacteria: what are the in situ consequences of their diverse metabolic versatilities?
Authors: Drake Harold L. , Daniel Steven L. , Küsel Kirsten , Matthies Carola , Kuhner Carla , Braus‐Stromeyer Susanna
Published: December 2008

The four decades of the now classic studies by Harland G. Wood and Lars G. Ljungdahl lead to the resolution of the autotrophic acetyl‐CoA 'Wood/Ljungdahl' pathway of acetogenesis. This pathway is the hallmark of acetogens, but is also used by other bacteria, including methanogens and sulfate‐reducing bacteria, for both catabolic and anabolic purposes. Thus, the pathway is wide spread in nature and plays an important role in the global turnover of carbon. Because most historical studies with acetogens focused on the biochemistry of the acetyl‐CoA pathway, the metabolic diversity and ecology of acetogens remained largely unexplored for many years. Although acetogens were initially conceived to be a somewhat obscure bacteriological group with limited metabolic capabilities, it is now clear that acetogens are arguably the most metabolically diverse group of obligate anaerobes characterized to date. Their anaerobic metabolic arsenal includes the capacity to oxidize diverse substrates, including aromatic, C1, C2, and halogenated compounds, and engage a large number of alternative energy‐conserving, terminal electron‐accepting processes, including classic fermentations and the dissimilation of inorganic nitrogen. In this regard, one might consider acetogens on a collective basis as the pseudomonads of obligate anaerobes. By virtue of their diverse metabolic talents, acetogens can be found in essentially all habitats. This review evaluates the metabolic versatilities of acetogens relative to both the engagement (regulation) of the acetyl‐CoA pathway and the ecological roles likely played by this bacteriological group.
The Atomic Layer Deposition of HfO2 and ZrO2 using Advanced Metallocene Precursors and H2O as the Oxygen Source
Authors: Dezelah Charles L. , Niinistö Jaakko , Kukli Kaupo , Munnik Frans , Lu Jun , Ritala Mikko , Leskelä Markku , Niinistö Lauri
Published: December 2008

The atomic layer deposition (ALD) of HfO2 and ZrO2 thin films is investigated using (MeCp)2HfMe2, (MeCp)2Hf(OMe)(Me), (MeCp)2ZrMe2, and (MeCp)2Zr(OMe)(Me) as the precursors at deposition temperatures between 300 and 500 °C, with water vapor as the oxygen source. A self‐limiting growth mechanism is confirmed at 350 °C for all the metal precursors examined. The processes provide nearly stoichiometric HfO2 and ZrO2 films with carbon and hydrogen concentrations below 0.5 and 1.0 at.‐%, respectively, for representative samples. All films are polycrystalline as deposited, and possess a thin interfacial SiO2 layer. The capacitance‐voltage (C‐V) and current density‐voltage (I‐V) behavior is reported and discussed for capacitor structures containing films from this study.
A novel hybrid active filter compensator for stabilization of wind‐utility grid interface scheme
Authors: Sharaf A. M. , Wang W. , Altas Ismail H.
Published: December 2008

This paper presents a novel voltage source converter (VSC)‐based hybrid power filter compensator (HPFC) scheme for effective reactive power compensation and harmonic reduction in distribution grid networks with the dispersed wind energy interface. A novel multi‐loop dynamic error‐driven controller equipped with an auxiliary DC‐side voltage tracking loop is introduced to ensure a robust and fast control of the HPFC. Based on digital simulations, the effectiveness of the proposed HPFC scheme is fully validated in a unified sample wind‐energy embedded distribution system under wind velocity excursions and electric load disturbances. The dynamic performance of the HPFC is compared with that of the conventional active power filter (APF) and that of the passive power filter (PPF), respectively. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Three New Arylnaphthalide Lignans from the Aerial Parts of Bupleurum marginatumWall. ex DC.
Authors: Liu Ying , Zhang Ting‐Ting , Zhou Jin‐Song , Wang Qiang
Published: December 2008

Three new arylnaphthalide lignans, 5‐(4‐hydroxy‐3‐methoxyphenyl)furo[3′,4′: 6,7]naphtho[2,3‐d]‐1,3‐dioxol‐6(8H)‐one (1), 10‐(4‐hydroxy‐3‐methoxyphenyl)furo[3′,4′: 6,7]naphtho[1,2‐d]‐1,3‐dioxol‐9(7H)‐one (2), and 10‐(3,4‐dimethoxyphenyl)‐6‐hydroxyfuro[3′,4′: 6,7]naphtho[1,2‐d]‐1,3‐dioxol‐9(7H)‐one (3), together with two known ones, chinensin (4) and isodiphyllin (5), were isolated from the aerial parts of Bupleurum marginatum Wall. ex DC. The structures of the three new lignans were established by means of NMR spectroscopic studies, including HQSC, HMBC, and ROESY.
Lignans from the Bark of Magnolia kobus
Authors: Lee Hak‐Ju , Seo Seon‐Mi , Lee Oh‐Kyu , Jo Hyun‐Jin , Kang Ha‐Young , Choi Don‐Ha , Paik Ki‐Hyon , Khan Merajuddin
Published: December 2008

The Et2O‐soluble fraction from the bark of Magnolia kobus led to the isolation of two new lignans, (+)‐(7α,7′α,8α,8′α)‐3′,4,4′,5,5′‐pentamethoxy‐7,9′: 7′,9‐diepoxylignan‐3‐ol (1) and (+)‐(7α,7′α,8α,8′α)‐4,5‐dimethoxy‐3′,4′‐(methylenedioxy)‐7,9′: 7′,9‐diepoxylignan‐3‐ol (2), along with five known lignans 3–7. Their structures were established on the basis of various spectroscopic analyses including 1D‐ (1H, 13C, and DEPT) and 2D‐NMR (COSY, NOESY, HMQC, and HMBC) and by comparison of their spectral data with those of related compounds.
Climate change and human occupation in the northernmost Chilean Altiplano over the last ca. 11 500 cal. a BP
Authors: Moreno Ana , Santoro Calogero M. , Latorre Claudio
Published: December 2008

This interdisciplinary study represents an approximation towards understanding how regional human cultural systems may have been affected by climate change in the northernmost Chilean Altiplano (>3600 m) over the last ca. 11 500 cal a BP. We compare the archaeological record from Hakenasa cave with the lake record from Lago Chungará sediment cores, located 50 km to the south. By integrating both of these archives in conjunction with regional palaeoclimate and archaeological data, we provide new evidence for the role of changing environmental and climatic conditions in human settlement patterns. The first human occupation of the entire Altiplano occurs at Hakenasa and is dated to 9980 ± 40 14C a BP (11 265–11 619 cal. a BP), and took place under wetter regional climate conditions. An archaeologically sterile deposit occurs at Hakenasa between 7870 and 6890 cal. a BP. Constituted by sands and gravels, these sediments are interpreted as a flood event. This time period is synchronous with alternating short dry and wet events recorded in the Lake Chungará sedimentary sequence. Human activity resumes and increases in importance at Hakenasa by ca. 6000 cal. a BP. This corresponds to wetter conditions indicated by the Chungará record. Even though the lake record indicates intense volcanic activity over the last 6000 cal. a BP, this had little or no impact on the human population present at Hakenasa. This study shows that even in this extreme environment human settlement patterns do not always respond in a linear fashion to environmental change. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Evaluation of corrosion inhibitors for cooling water systems operating at high concentration cycles
Authors: de Souza E. A. , Ponciano Gomes J. A. C. , Reznik L. Y. , Sathler L.
Published: December 2008

The present work aimed at evaluating AISI 1020 carbon steel corrosion resistance of a 6:4:1:1 (MoO/HEDP/PO/Zn2+) inhibitor mixture present in a solution which simulates an industrial cooling water system operating at high concentration cycles (1050 ppm Cl− and 450 ppm Ca2+). High concentration cycles are desirable, because system purge and treated water consumption are decreased. On the other hand, a high number of concentration cycles can increase the concentration of salts and dissolved impurities, causing corrosion, incrustations, and deposits inside the pipes, heat exchangers, and cooling towers. Thus, the chloride (Cl−) and calcium (Ca2+) ions aggressiveness was studied on the proposed inhibiting mixture, at the temperatures of 40 and 60 °C, through electrochemical techniques like open circuit potential measurements, anodic and cathodic polarization, and weight loss. The results showed that the inhibitor mixture conferred adequate protection to carbon steel in low concentrations, even in high aggressive media.
A comparative electrochemical study of commercial and model aluminium alloy (AA5050)
Authors: Premendra P. , Terryn H. , Mol J. M. C. , de Wit J. H. W. , Katgerman L.
Published: December 2008

A comparative electrochemical study of commercially recycled AA5050 and model AA5050, in their as‐cast state, is carried out to investigate the effect of recycling and furthermore the effect of trace elements like Pb, Cu, etc on electrochemical activation and filiform corrosion (FFC) susceptibility. A systematic combination of surface analytical techniques like scanning Kelvin probe force microscopy (SKPFM), scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and energy dispersive X‐ray (EDX) is used to study the composition and electrochemical behaviour of second phase particles. These results, together with localized breakdown measurements using the electrochemical micro‐cell, elucidate the effect of recycling and the role played by trace elements in influencing the electrochemical behaviour of the alloy.