bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Modelagem da Ilha de Calor Urbana Aplicada ao Ambiente Litorâneo - Ubatuba/Brasil
Authors: Gomes Washington Paulo , Amorim Margarete Cristiane de Costa Trindade , Dubreuil Vincent
Published: December 2017

A estimativa da temperatura do ar por meio da modelagem das ilhas de calor urbanas é um importante instrumento para a gestão do espaço urbano, sendo possível contribuir para intervenções mais localizadas que podem amenizar as ilhas de calor atmosféricas ligadas ao processo de urbanização. Deste modo, o procedimento da modelagem da ilha de calor urbana tem como objetivo estimar a temperatura do ar no ambiente urbano e rural próximo, onde não houve pontos de registro, considerando-se as características de uso e ocupação da terra, delimitando a área de representatividade de cada ponto analisado. Para tanto, foram realizadas correlações estatísticas entre as temperaturas medidas em 17 pontos fixos de registros em relação às características da superfície, tais como a porcentagem de vegetação, a densidade de construções, a distância do mar e as temperaturas de superfície. Os resultados mostraram que o modelo foi capaz de explicar cerca de 60% da variabilidade das temperaturas na área urbana de Ubatuba, localizada no Litoral Norte do Estado de São Paulo. A distribuição das temperaturas no intraurbano e no entorno rural se apresentaram entre 23°C e 28°C com a formação de ilha de calor bem definida na área central da cidade, apresentando intensidade máxima de 5°C em relação ao entorno rural.
METAPOESIA E EROTISMO EM MARGEM DE MANOBRA, DE CLÁUDIA ROQUETE- PINTO
Authors: Menegazzo Maria Adélia , Freitas Angélica Catianeda Silva de , Rocha Flávio Amorim da
Published: December 2017

É objetivo deste artigo discutir as construções metapoéticas presentes na obra Margem de Manobra de Cláudia Roquette-Pinto. Por meio de diversas acepções da palavra corpo, a poeta tece uma rede de significações que compreendem o corpo do poeta, que enuncia, o corpo do mundo, como matéria de poesia, o corpo do outro e sua sensualidade, até que, por fim, todos esses corpos convergem no corpo do poema, que retoma conceitos clássicos do fazer poético, problematiza-os, e posiciona-se no cenário da literatura brasileira contemporânea.
Effect of Smoking and Folate Levels on the Efficacy of Folic Acid Therapy in Prevention of Stroke in Hypertensive Men
Authors: Zhou Ziyi , Li Jianping , Yu Yaren , Li Youbao , Zhang Yan , Liu Lishun , Song Yun , Zhao Min , Wang Yu , Tang Genfu , He Mingli , Xu Xiping , Cai Yefeng , Dong Qiang , Yin Delu , Huang Xiao , Cheng Xiaoshu , Wang Binyan , Hou Fan Fan , Wang Xiaobin , Qin Xianhui , Huo Yong
Published: December 2017

Background and Purpose—

We aimed to examine whether the efficacy of folic acid therapy in the primary prevention of stroke is jointly affected by smoking status and baseline folate levels in a male population in a post hoc analysis of the CSPPT (China Stroke Primary Prevention Trial).

Methods—

Eligible participants of the CSPPT were randomly assigned to a double-blind daily treatment of a combined enalapril 10-mg and folic acid 0.8-mg tablet or an enalapril 10-mg tablet alone. In total, 8384 male participants of the CSPPT were included in the current analyses. The primary outcome was first stroke.

Results—

The median treatment duration was 4.5 years. In the enalapril-alone group, the first stroke risk varied by baseline folate levels and smoking status (never versus ever). Specifically, there was an inverse association between folate levels and first stroke in never smokers (
P
for linear trend=0.043). However, no such association was found in ever smokers. A test for interaction between baseline folate levels and smoking status on first stroke was significant (
P
=0.045). In the total sample, folic acid therapy significantly reduced the risk of first stroke in never smokers with folate deficiency (hazard risk, 0.36; 95% confidence interval, 0.16–0.83) and in ever smokers with normal folate levels (hazard risk, 0.69; 95% confidence interval, 0.48–0.99).

Conclusions—

Baseline folate levels and smoking status can interactively affect the risk of first stroke. Our data suggest that compared with never smokers, ever smokers may require a higher dosage of folic acid to achieve a greater beneficial effect on stroke. Our findings need to be confirmed by future randomized trials.

Clinical Trial Registration—

URL:
https://www.clinicaltrials.gov
. Unique identifier: NCT00794885.
Dihydrolipoic Acid Inhibits Lysosomal Rupture and NLRP3 Through Lysosome-Associated Membrane Protein-1/Calcium/Calmodulin-Dependent Protein Kinase II/TAK1 Pathways After Subarachnoid Hemorrhage in Rat
Authors: Zhou Keren , Enkhjargal Budbazar , Xie Zhiyi , Sun Chengmei , Wu Lingyun , Malaguit Jay , Chen Sheng , Tang Jiping , Zhang Jianmin , Zhang John H.
Published: December 2017

Background and Purpose—

The NLRP3 (nucleotide binding and oligomerization domain-like receptor family pyrin domain-containing 3) inflammasome is a crucial component of the inflammatory response in early brain injury after subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH). In this study, we investigated a role of dihydrolipoic acid (DHLA) in lysosomal rupture, NLRP3 activation, and determined the underlying pathway.

Methods—

SAH was induced by endovascular perforation in male Sprague–Dawley rats. DHLA was administered intraperitoneally 1 hour after SAH. Small interfering RNA for lysosome-associated membrane protein-1 and CaMKIIα (calcium/calmodulin-dependent protein kinase II α) was administered through intracerebroventricular 48 hours before SAH induction. SAH grade evaluation, short- and long-term neurological function testing, Western blot, and immunofluorescence staining experiments were performed.

Results—

DHLA treatment increased the expression of lysosome-associated membrane protein-1 and decreased phosphorylated CaMKIIα and NLRP3 inflammasome, thereby alleviating neurological deficits after SAH. Lysosome-associated membrane protein-1 small interfering RNA abolished the neuroprotective effects of DHLA and increased the level of phosphorylated CaMKIIα, p-TAK1 (phosphorylated transforming growth factor-β-activated kinase), p-JNK (phosphorylated c-Jun-N-terminal kinase), and NLRP3 inflammasome. CaMKIIα small interfering RNA downregulated the expression of p-TAK1, p-JNK, and NLRP3 and improved the neurobehavior after SAH.

Conclusions—

DHLA treatment improved neurofunction and alleviated inflammation through the lysosome-associated membrane protein-1/CaMKII/TAK1 pathway in early brain injury after SAH. DHLA may provide a promising treatment to alleviate early brain injury after SAH.
Bone disease in monoclonal gammopathy of undetermined significance: results from a screened population-based study
Authors: Thorsteinsdottir Sigrun , Lund Sigrun H. , Lindqvist Ebba K. , Thordardottir Marianna , Sigurdsson Gunnar , Costello Rene , Burton Debra , Steingrimsdottir Hlif , Gudnason Vilmundur , Eiriksdottir Gudny , Siggeirsdottir Kristin , Harris Tamara B. , Landgren Ola , Kristinsson Sigurdur Y.
Published: December 2017

Key Points

Individuals with MGUS did not have a decreased BMD compared with others in a screened population. Individuals with MGUS had an increased bone volume at the hip and lumbar spine compared with others.
Circulating Tumor Cell Number as a Response Measure of Prolonged Survival for Metastatic Castration-Resistant Prostate Cancer: A Comparison With Prostate-Specific Antigen Across Five Randomized Phase III Clinical Trials
Authors: Heller Glenn , McCormack Robert , Kheoh Thian , Molina Arturo , Smith Matthew R. , Dreicer Robert , Saad Fred , de Wit Ronald , Aftab Dana T. , Hirmand Mohammad , Limon Ana , Fizazi Karim , Fleisher Martin , de Bono Johann S. , Scher Howard I.
Published: December 2017

Purpose

Measures of response that are clinically meaningful and occur early are an unmet need in metastatic castration-resistant prostate cancer clinical research and practice. We explored, using individual patient data, week 13 circulating tumor cell (CTC) and prostate-specific antigen (PSA) response end points in five prospective randomized phase III trials that enrolled a total of 6,081 patients—COU-AA-301, AFFIRM, ELM-PC-5, ELM-PC-4, and COMET-1— ClinicalTrials.Gov identifiers: NCT00638690, NCT00974311, NCT01193257, NCT01193244, and NCT01605227, respectively.

Methods

Eight response end points were explored. CTC nonzero at baseline and 0 at 13 weeks (CTC0); CTC conversion (≥ 5 CTCs at baseline, ≤ 4 at 13 weeks—the US Food and Drug Administration cleared response measure); a 30%, 50%, and 70% decrease in CTC count; and a 30%, 50%, and 70% decrease in PSA level. Patients missing week-13 values were considered nonresponders. The discriminatory strength of each end point with respect to overall survival in each trial was assessed using the weighted c-index.

Results

Of the eight response end points, CTC0 and CTC conversion had the highest weighted c-indices, with smaller standard deviations. For CTC0, the mean (standard deviation) was 0.81 (0.04); for CTC conversion, 0.79 (0.03); for 30% decrease in CTC count, 0.72 (0.06); for 50% decrease in CTC count, 0.72 (0.06); for 70% decrease in CTC count, 0.73 (0.05); for 30% decrease in PSA level, 0.71 (0.03); for 50% decrease in PSA level, 0.72 (0.06); and for 70% decrease in PSA level, 0.74 (0.05). Seventy-five percent of eligible patients could be evaluated with the CTC0 end point, compared with 51% with the CTC conversion end point.

Conclusion

The CTC0 and CTC conversion end points had the highest discriminatory power for overall survival. Both are robust and meaningful response end points for early-phase metastatic castration-resistant prostate cancer clinical trials. CTC0 is applicable to a significantly higher percentage of patients than CTC conversion.
The loss of hemoglobin and myoglobin does not minimize oxidative stress in Antarctic icefishes
Authors: O'Brien Kristin M. , Crockett Elizabeth L. , Philip Jacques , Oldham Corey A. , Hoffman Megan , Kuhn Donald E. , Barry Ronald , McLaughlin Jessica
Published: December 2017

The unusual pattern of expression of hemoglobin (Hb) and myoglobin (Mb) among Antarctic notothenioid fishes provides an exceptional model system for assessing the impact of these proteins on oxidative stress. We tested the hypothesis that the lack of oxygen-binding proteins may reduce oxidative stress. Levels and activity of pro-oxidants, small-molecule and enzymatic antioxidants, and levels of oxidized lipids and proteins in liver, oxidative skeletal muscle, and heart ventricle were quantified in five species of notothenioid fishes differing in the expression of Hb and Mb. Levels of ubiquitinated proteins and rates of protein degradation by the 20S proteasome were also quantified. Although levels of oxidized proteins and lipids, ubiquitinated proteins, and antioxidants are higher in red-blooded fishes than in Hb-less icefishes in some tissues, this pattern does not persist across all tissues. Expression of Mb is not associated with oxidative damage in heart ventricle, whereas the activity of citrate synthase and contents of heme are positively correlated with oxidative damage in most tissues. Despite some tissue differences in levels of protein carbonyls among species, rates of degradation by the 20S proteasome are not markedly different, suggesting either alternative pathways for eliminating oxidized proteins or redox tone varies among species. Together, our data indicate that the loss of Hb and Mb does not correspond with a clear pattern of either reduced oxidative defense or oxidative damage.
Oxidation of linoleic and palmitic acid in pre-hibernating and hibernating common noctule bats revealed by 13C breath testing
Authors: Rosner Elisabeth , Voigt Christian C.
Published: December 2017

Mammals fuel hibernation by oxidizing saturated and unsaturated fatty acids from triacylglycerols in adipocytes, yet the relative importance of these two categories as an oxidative fuel may change during hibernation. We studied the selective use of fatty acids as an oxidative fuel in noctule bats (Nyctalus noctula). Pre-hibernating noctule bats that were fed 13C-enriched linoleic acid (LA) showed 12 times higher tracer oxidation rates compared to conspecifics fed 13C-enriched palmitic acid (PA). After this experiment, we supplemented the diet of bats with the same fatty acids on 5 subsequent days to enrich their fat depots with the respective tracer. We then compared the excess 13C enrichment (APE) in breath of bats for torpor and arousal events during early and late hibernation. We observed higher APE values in breath of bats fed 13C-enriched LA than in bats fed 13C-enriched PA for both states, torpor and arousal, and also for both periods. Thus, hibernating bats oxidized selectively endogenous LA instead of PA, most likely because of faster transportation rates of PUFA compared with SFA. We did not observe changes in APE values in the breath of torpid animals between early and late hibernation. Skin temperature of torpid animals increased by 0.7°C between early and late hibernation in bats fed PA, whereas it decreased by -0.8°C in bats fed LA, highlighting that endogenous LA may fulfil two functions when available in excess: serving as an oxidative fuel and supporting cell membrane functionality.
Fasting enhances mitochondrial efficiency in ducklings skeletal muscle by acting on the substrate oxidation system
Authors: Roussel Damien , Boël Mélanie , Romestaing Caroline
Published: December 2017

During food deprivation, animals must develop physiological responses to maximize energy conservation and survival. At the subcellular level, energy conservation is mainly achieved by a reduction in mitochondrial activity and an upregulation of oxidative phosphorylation efficiency. The aim of this study was to decipher mechanisms underlying the increased mitochondrial coupling efficiency reported in fasted birds. Mitochondrial oxidative phosphorylation activity, efficiency and membrane potential were measured in mitochondria isolated from gastrocnemius muscle of ducklings. The content and activities of respiratory chain complexes were also determined. Results from 6 days fasted ducklings were compared with ad libitum fed ducklings. Here, we report that 6 days of fasting improved coupling efficiency in muscle mitochondria of ducklings by depressing proton-motive force through the down-regulation of substrate oxidation reactions. Fasting did not change the basal proton conductance of mitochondria, but largely decreased the oxidative phosphorylation activity, which was associated with a decreased activities of succinate-cytochrome c reductase (complexes II-III) and citrate synthase, and altered contents in cytochromes b and c+c1. In contrast, fasting did not change cytochrome aa3 content or complexes I, II and IV activities. Altogether, these data show that the lower capacity of the respiratory machinery to pump protons in 6 days fasted ducklings generates a lower membrane potential, which triggers a decreased proton leak activity and thus a higher coupling efficiency. We propose that the main site of action would be located at the level of coenzyme Q pool/complex III of the electron transport chain.
Imaging of osteoarthritis—recent research developments and future perspective
Authors: Hayashi Daichi , Roemer Frank W , Guermazi Ali
Published: December 2017

In osteoarthritis research, imaging plays an important role in clinical trials and epidemiological observational studies. In this narrative review article, we will describe recent developments in imaging of osteoarthritis in the research arena, mainly focusing on literature evidence published within the past 3 years (2014–2017). We will primarily focus on MRI including advanced imaging techniques that are not currently commonly used in routine clinical practice, although radiography, ultrasound and nuclear medicine (radiotracer) imaging will also be discussed. Research efforts to uncover the disease process of OA as well as to discover a disease modifying OA drug continue. MRI continues to play a large role in these endeavors, while compositional MRI techniques will increasingly become important due to their ability to assess “premorphologic” biochemical changes of articular cartilage and other tissues in and around joints. Radiography remain the primary imaging modality for defining inclusion/exclusion criteria as well as an outcome measure in OA clinical trials, despite known limitations for visualization of OA features. Compositional MRI techniques show promise for predicting structural and clinical outcomes in OA research. Ultrasound can be a useful adjunct to radiography and MRI particularly for evaluation of hand OA. Newer imaging techniques such as hybrid PET/MRI may have a potential but require further research and validation.
99mTc-sestamibi SPECT/CT for the characterization of renal masses: a pictorial guide
Authors: Campbell Scott P , Tzortzakakis Antonios , Javadi Mehrbod S , Karlsson Mattias , Solnes Lilja B , Axelsson Rimma , Allaf Mohamad E , Gorin Michael A , Rowe Steven P
Published: December 2017

In parallel to the increased utilization of cross-sectional imaging, the incidence of small renal masses has steadily risen in recent years. At the present time, anatomical imaging techniques are limited in their ability to differentiate benign from malignant renal masses. Moreover, renal mass biopsy has a high non-diagnostic rate, poor negative-predictive ability, and carries potential risks as well as substantial costs. As a result, benign renal masses are often unnecessarily resected for the false presumption of cancer. 99mTc-sestamibi single photon emission computed tomography/computed tomography (SPECT/CT) is a molecular imaging test that allows for the differentiation of benign renal oncocytomas and hybrid oncocytomic/chromophobe tumours apart from malignant renal cell carcinomas on the basis of differences in mitochondrial content as well as multidrug resistant pump expression. Herein, we review the principles of 99mTc-sestamibi SPECT/CT administration and image interpretation for the purpose of renal mass characterization.
18F-DOPA uptake parameters in glioma: effects of patients’ characteristics and prior treatment history
Authors: Carideo Luciano , Minniti Giuseppe , Mamede Marcelo , Scaringi Claudia , Russo Ivana , Scopinaro Francesco , Cicone Francesco
Published: December 2017

Objective:

In amino acid positron emission tomography brain tumour imaging, tumour-to-background uptake parameters are often used for treatment monitoring. We studied the effects of patients’ characteristics and anticancer treatments on 18F–fluoro-l–phenylalanine uptake of normal brain and tumour lesions, with particular emphasis on temozolomide (TMZ) chemotherapy.

Methods:

155 studies from 120 patients with glioma were analysed. Average uptake of normal background (standardized uptake value, SUVbckgr) and basal ganglia (SUVbg), as well as tumour-to-brain ratios (TBR) were compared between positron emission tomography/CT studies acquired before (Group A, n = 48), after (Group B, n = 50) or during (Group C, n = 57) TMZ treatment, using analysis of variance.

Results:

Overall, mean SUVbckgr and mean SUVbg were 1.06 ± 0.26 and 2.12 ± 0.47, respectively. Female had significantly higher SUVbckgr (p = 0.002) and SUVbg (p = 0.012) than male patients. Age showed a positive correlation with SUVbg (p = 0.001). In the overall cohort, there were significant effects of TMZ on SUVbckgr (p = 0.0237) and TBR (p = 0.0138). In particular, SUVbckgr was lower in Group C than in Group B (1.00 ± 0.25 vs 1.14 ± 0.31, p = 0.0173). Significant variations of SUVbckr could be observed in female only. TBR was significantly higher in Group C than in Group B (2.37 ± 0.54 vs 2.06 ± 0.38, p = 0.010). Variations of SUVbg between groups slightly missed significance (p = 0.0504).

Conclusion:

Temozolomide chemotherapy and patients’ characteristics, including gender and age, affect physiological [18F]–fluoro-l–phenylalanine uptake and, consequently, the calculation of TBRs.

Advances in knowledge:

For the first time, the effects of past or concurrent temozolomide chemotherapy on brain physiological amino acid uptake have been investigated. Such effects are relevant and should be taken into account when evaluating tumour-to-background ratios.
Monocytes isolated by positive and negative magnetic sorting techniques show different molecular characteristics and immunophenotypic behaviour
Authors: Bhattacharjee Jashdeep , Das Barun , Mishra Alaknanda , Sahay Preeti , Upadhyay Pramod
Published: December 2017

Background: Magnetic sorting of cells, based on  microbead conjugated antibodies (Abs), employs positive as well as negative immunomagnetic separation methods, for isolation of a specific cell population. These microbeads are suggested to be nontoxic, biodegradable carriers conjugated to various antibodies. Isolation of cells through positive selection involves the attachment of antibody conjugated microbeads to the cells of interest, followed by their isolation in the presence of a strong magnetic field to obtain higher purity. Negative selection involves attachment of microbead conjugated antibodies to all other cell populations except the cells of interest, which remain untagged. In the present study, we compared the two methods for their effect on functional and immunophenotypic behavior of isolated CD14+ monocytes.

Methods: Peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) were isolated from blood collected from healthy volunteers by density gradient centrifugation. Human blood derived monocytes were isolated through positive selection and negative selection, making use of the appropriate monocyte isolation kit. Monocytes were then stimulated with lipopolysaccharide (LPS) and their activation and proliferation capacity were examined. The degradation or dissociation of cell-bound microbeads was also investigated.

Results: We observed an impaired LPS sensitivity as well as poor activation and proliferation capacity upon stimulation by LPS in positively sorted CD14+ monocytes as compared to negatively sorted CD14+ monocytes. The attached microbeads did not degrade and remained attached to the cells even after 6 days of culture.

Conclusions: Our results suggest that positively sorted CD14+ cells exhibit hampered functionality and may result in inaccurate analysis and observations in downstream applications. However, these cells can be used for immediate analytical procedures.
On Salagean type pseudo-starlike functions
Authors: Altınkaya Şahsene , Sağlam Özkan Yeşim
Published: December 2017

We construct two new subclasses of univalent functions in the open unit disk U = {z : |z| < 1}. For the first class £λ(β) of Salagean type λ-pseudo-starlike functions, using the sigmoid function, we establish upper bounds for the initial coefficients of the functions in this class. Furthermore, for the second class £λ (β, φ) we obtain Fekete-Szegö inequalities. The results presented in this paper generalize the recent work of Babalola.
The methodological development of the «green economy» concept in the context of local communities
Authors: Терешина Мария , Tereshina M. , Башмаков И. , Bashmakov I.
Published: December 2017

Key methodological problems, associated with formation and development of the concept of «green" economy, are analyzed. The purpose of the article is to identify the main conceptual approaches, the synthesis of which can create the basis for formation of a single methodological apparatus and implementation of practical actions by local communities in the sphere of "green" economy. As a basis for this, several conceptual approaches have been proposed, including the theory of sustainable development, the theory of "risk society", ecological modernization, the concept of "ecological trace", "environmental space" and ecoefficiency, the theory of the economic identity and the theory of economic development of local communities. The necessity of developing a system of theoretical and methodological principles with a set of operationalized concepts that can synthesize social and environmental interests of local communities with economic and production interests without compromising with natural environment and having a synergistic effect for the sustainable development of regional space is substantiated. The categories of "ecolocus" and "ecological identity" are determined and detailed.
Knowledge management in the forest complex by formation of intelligent matrices for the synthesis of patent-imported solutions
Authors: Шегельман И. , Shegelman I. , Васильев Алексей , Vasil'ev Aleksey
Published: December 2017

One of the reasons that domestic machine-building enterprises have lost the market to foreign companies - manufacturers of machinery for harvesting and deep processing of woody biomass is underestimation of the need to accelerate the synthesis and implementation of domestic innovations in forest sector. The most important place in the number of such innovations is occupied by patented technological and technical solutions. The determining factor in formation of knowledge bases and convenience of further work with them is correct structuring and visualization of information that constitutes their essence. One of the approaches to the formation of knowledge bases is compilation of "intellectual matrices" for the development of an object of technology. These matrices are formed taking into account valuation of technical equipment reached by the object for the considered period of time of technical level by analyzing the patent documentation and helping to identify its most strongly and poorly developed "sides", which in turn makes it possible to determine promising areas for improvement. The authors offer the concept of knowledge management in forest complex by forming "intelligent matrices" for the synthesis of patentable technological and technical solutions. The concept was tested at a number of facilities of forest complex technologies and equipment and confirmed by forming and protecting of several dozens of patents. The methodology of synthesizing patentable technical solutions with the construction of intelligent matrices is shown on the example of constructive and technological analysis of a harvester. It is established that a promising direction for improving the design of harvester is to improve technical and economic characteristics of its operation in processor mode. The essence of patented technical solutions consists in equipping the handle of manipulator with an additional working element that allows to separate individual logs from the stack, thus providing free space next to them for free gripping of jaws of harvester head.
Experimental studies of the cone index mechanical properties of weak peatland soils
Authors: Дмитриева М. , Dmitrieva M. , Григорьев Игорь , Grigorev Igor , Лухминский В. , Luhminskiy V. , Казаков Д. , Kazakov D. , Хахина Анна , Khakhina Anna
Published: December 2017

The aim of the research, the results of which are set forth in this article, is to supplement the scientific description of the properties of the weakly bearing swampy surfaces of forest machinery movement. In the course of the experiments, the following tasks were set: to reveal the interrelationships of the physical and mechanical properties of weak soil; to test the possibility of expressing the specific cohesion, the angle of internal friction and the shear modulus through its modulus of deformation; to investigate the relationship between the cone index and physical and mechanical properties of weak soil. The experiments were carried out on the territory, leased by the LLC "Kupechesky Dom" (Pskov) in summer and autumn of 2016. To determine the angle of internal friction, specific adhesion, modulus of de-formation, shear modulus and cone index, methods that were regulated by the relevant standards were used. The article presents the main statistical data on the properties of samples of weak soil and information on the correlation of values of properties of weak ground. Based on the results of the study, close bonds of specific adhesion, the angle of internal friction, shear modulus and cone index with the modulus of deformation of weak soil were revealed. Based on the results of experimental data processing and values of the coefficients of determination of the formulas obtained for the properties of weak soil, it was confirmed that the values of specific adhesion, angle of internal friction, shear modulus and cone index are in practice expressed in terms of the deformation modulus with satisfactory accuracy. The calculated values of the conic index are compared with the previously known theoretical formulas and the experimental values measured during the experiments. It is shown that the results of the comparison make it possible to insist on the satisfactory accuracy of the theoretical approach to the determination of cone index of weakly bearing soil.
Program and methodology for carrying out experimental studies of a loading and transport machine in an application package
Authors: Клубничкин Владислав , Klubnichkin Vladislav , Клубничкин Евгений , Klubnichkin Evgeniy , Кондратюк Д. , Kondratyuk D. , Бекетов С. , Beketov S.
Published: December 2017

The article presents the program and methodology for conducting experimental studies of the dynamics of the tracked movement of loading and transport machines in the applied program package "Universal mechanism" using module "tracked vehicles". Presents the objectives of the auxiliary and the main dynamic experiments. Auxiliary experiments serve the purpose of calculation of determining the initial state of tracked loading and transport machines and training perform basic experiments. The main experiments designed to study the dynamic properties of the tracked loading-transport machines. The list of dynamic experiments including experiments on: equilibrium; the tension of the caterpillars; the calculation of initial velocities; the vertical pumping; the linear progression; the control without feedback; tests with the operator (driver). The article describes the steps which are needed to prepare a simulation model of the crawler handling machine before performing dynamic experiments. Examples are given of the parameters of the irregularities and white-the path on which will move the simulation model tracked the loading and transport machines during the experiments. Presents fragments model the motion of a tracked loading-transport machines. The proposed program and methodology for conducting experimental research, tracked loading and transport machines in the applied software package that allows the design stage to quickly conduct a number of virtual dynamic experiments with the aim of finding operating points, accelerations and loads in the various elements of the machine (primarily in the elements of cater-pillar tracks). This will make it possible in the course of virtual experiments to find the optimal parameters of construction elements tracked loading and transport machines at the design stage that will allow the prototype cars with the least modifications to work in the given natural-production conditions.
Dynamic Pricing Under Debt: Spiraling Distortions and Efficiency Losses
Authors: Besbes Omar , Iancu Dan A. , Trichakis Nikolaos
Published: December 2017

Firms often finance their inventory through debt and subsequently sell it to generate profits and service the debt. Pricing of products is consequently driven by inventory and debt servicing considerations. We show that limited liability under debt induces sellers to charge higher prices and to discount products at a slower pace. We find that these distortions result in revenue losses that compound over time, leading to some form of performance spiral down. We quantify the extent to which these inefficiencies can be mitigated by practical debt contract terms that emerge as natural remedies from our analysis, and find debt amortization or financial covenants to be the most effective, followed by debt relief and early repayment options.

The online appendix is available at https://doi.org/10.1287/mnsc.2017.2862 .

This paper was accepted by Serguei Netessine, operations management.
If at first you don’t succeed, rip it out and try again: The benefits of failure among DIY handcrafters
Authors: Stalp Marybeth C. , Winge Therèsa M.
Published: December 2017

Failure is a vital part of the creative process – we learn through failure. However, within the current culture that publicly celebrates success and achievement (sometimes at all costs) people are often hesitant to admit their failures – failure has become not just something to experience, but a negative and stigmatizing label, something to be avoided at all costs. Because of this, our ‘congratulatory culture’ reduces the importance of the creative process (including failure), especially in creative work. In this article, we focus on people who encounter failure regularly. We study people who make things with their hands – Do-It-Yourself (DIY) handcrafters who work with fibres and textiles. In our qualitative interview study with 44 North American handcrafters (e.g. those engaged in leisure weaving, knitting, crochet, patchwork), we examine ‘failure’, how handcrafters discuss the importance of failure, and how failure fits importantly into the creative process. We present discourse offered by the studies of the creative process and the importance of ‘failure’, as well as firsthand examples from our research and ethnographic experiences. We explore the complex creative process, including simultaneously positive and negative experiences.
Somatics herstories: Tracing Elsa Gindler’s educational antecedents Hade Kallmeyer and Genevieve Stebbins
Authors: Mullan Kelly Jean
Published: December 2017

This article explores origin stories within the field of Somatics and attempts to dispel some myths about the early work of the German somatic pioneer Elsa Gindler while also paying homage to teachers who preceded her. Based on my translations of German literature, new information about the Harmonic Gymnastics system that Elsa Gindler was certified to teach is provided. Developed by the American dancer and movement educator Genevieve Stebbins, Harmonic Gymnastics had a large impact on Gindler when her teacher Hade Kallmeyer brought the work to Germany. There is little commonly known about the heritage of Harmonic Gymnastics; therefore, this article hopes to illuminate Stebbins’ work. Genevieve Stebbins also acted as an inspiration to the American dance pioneers Ruth St. Denis and Isadora Duncan, hence, this article also touches upon Stebbins’ influence within the advent of American modern dance.
A gallery of hanging thoughts: On solo choreography (an artist’s perspective on mentoring post-graduate students)
Authors: Nunan Mary
Published: December 2017

The article is intended to evoke a three-dimensional space in which some framed thoughts and reflections, on the process of creating solo choreographies, hang. The reader is invited to move through the gallery – to engage with the frames and with the spaces between them. The frames provide for experiences of solo making to be viewed from a number of perspectives. My stance as a writer and mentor is at times personal/intimate and at times more formal/distanced. It moves between both, weaving in the voices of other artists, scholars and students, all of whom I have found to be inspiring in their ability to clearly articulate their experience of some of the most delicate and subtle, as well as practical and logical, aspects of creating new work.
The Mind of the Copaíba Tree: Notes on Extractivism, Animism, and Ontology from Southern Bahia
Authors: DeVore Jonathan
Published: December 2017

This article analyzes ritualized prescriptions for harvesting oleoresin or “oil” from the copaíba tree in Brazil. These harvesting prescriptions involve increasingly complex attributions of mind to the copaíba tree itself. The copaíba tree is widespread throughout the Americas, and for centuries has been well-known for the medicinal oil that can be extracted from its trunk. In Brazil, contemporary knowledge of the copaíba tree is bound up with colonial history and what were often destructive extractivist economies. Whereas historical accounts of the copaíba tree are often limited to mechanistic descriptions for extracting oil, this article examines attributions of mind that harvesters make to the copaíba tree. These attributions can be read from procedures for extracting oil. Such procedures are concerned with moon cycles, tree marking, sexual activity, and gaze. The article shows that such prescriptions have a wide transregional and interethnic distribution, from the Amazon Basin in northern Brazil to the Atlantic Forest on Bahia’s southern coast. New evidence from southern Bahia also involves prescriptions concerning speech and naming, which presuppose that the copaíba tree is sensitive to intentionality and human language. These mind attributions are inferred through pragmatic analysis of the (ontological) presuppositions that are embedded by harvesting prescriptions. The contribution concludes with reflections on the implications of this presuppositional analytic approach for debates concerned with animism and the “ontological turn.”
Are non-carious cervical lesions more frequent in sleep bruxism patients?
Authors: Soares Miranda Jean , Serrado de Pinho Barcellos Aline , De Souza Oliveira Alloma , Cachuté Paradella Thaís , Tomomitsu Kimpara Estevão , Afonso Miranda Chaves Maria das Graças
Published: December 2017

Objective: to verify the frequency in non-carious lesions in patients with and without sleep bruxism and to try to list the occurrence of such lesions in patients with this parafunctional habit. Materials and Methods: 67 patients ranging from 18 to 70 years of age, which all signed a free and consent form were evaluated. Patients with neurological diseases and/or partially or totally edentulous were excluded from the study. Bruxism diagnosis was performed using a validated questionnaire based on the combination of at least two positive confirmations of bruxism. Diagnosis of non-carious cervical lesions (NCCL) was performed by a single calibrated examiner, using #5 clinical probe, intraoral mirror and air flow, analyzing all surfaces of the teeth present in the mouth. The lesions were classified as abfraction, abrasion or erosion. Statistical analysis was performed by U Mann-Whitney test, at 5% level of significance. Results: sixty patients were diagnosed with bruxism (91.3%) and only seven patients (8.7%) did not present this parafuctional habit. Regardless the gender, five patients (10.1%) presented absence of lesions and 62 patients (89.9%) presented some NCCL. 70% presented abfraction, 41% abrasion and no patient presented erosion. Statistical analysis showed a p-value of 0.03, which demonstrated significant statistical difference of NCCL between the groups. Conclusion: a higher frequency of NCCL in patients with bruxism was observed when compared to patients without this parafuction.KeywordsAbfraction; Bruxism; Non-carious cervical lesions.
Alveolar bone loss induced by high alcohol consumption in rats
Authors: Souza Daniela Martins de , Silva Alan de Aquino , Pereira Kauê Alberto , Gonsalves Vitor Sulz , Rodrigues Vinicius Anéas , Carvalho Claudemir de Carvalho de
Published: December 2017

Objective: The aim of the present study was to assess the effect of regular and constant long-term alcohol consumption on the percentage of the remaining periodontal bone support (PBS) and periodontal bone loss (PBL) in adult rats. Material and Methods: Fifty-four (54) rats were divided into 3 groups: Control (daily water intake, n=18) daily alcohol intake (20% ethanol, n=18) and social alcohol intake (20% ethanol 2x a week, n=18). The rats were treated with continuous free-choice access to both ethanol consumption frequencies. They were euthanized after 90 days and their left mandibles were radiographed for PBS measuring. The same left mandibles were defleshed and stained. The PBL was morphometrically assessed by measuring the distance between cement-enamel junction and alveolar bone crest. Results: Did not show difference (p > 0.05) in the amount of consumed alcohol between the social and daily intake groups. Rats also evidenced lower PBS percentage and higher PBL (p<0.05) in both alcohol consumption groups in comparison to the control. Conclusion: The long-term constant and regular same amount alcohol consumption may cause alveolar bone loss and reduce the remaining periodontal bone support in adult rats. Thus, the alveolar bone loss was associated with the amount of consumed alcohol, rather than with periodicity in periodontitis-free rats.KeywordsAlveolar Bone Loss; Alcoholism; Ethanol; Periodontal Disease; X-ray.
Influence of the occlusal contacts in formation of Abfraction Lesions in the upper premolar
Authors: Costa Victória Luswarghi Souza , Tribst João Paulo Mendes , Borges Alexandre Luiz Souto
Published: December 2017

Objective: The aim of this study was to observe the influence of different occlusal contacts in a superior pre-molar structure using Finite Element Analysis. Material and Methods: A three-dimensional model of a superior pre-molar was designed to simulate three occlusion situations, namely central occlusion and two types of lateral occlusion contacts. The model presents enamel, dentin, a periodontal ligament and a fixation cylinder separately. All materials were considered isotropic, linear and homogeneous, and the contacts of each structure were perfectly bonded. On analysis software, a load was applied to an occlusal surface at 40° to the long axis on lateral contacts, and directed to the long axis on central occlusion contact. Results: The results were obtained in stress maps and the maximum values were then plotted in table for quantitative comparison, with the enamel concentrating more stress than dentin and the occlusal contact presenting the worst biomechanical behavior. Conclusion: Within the limitations of this study, it is possible conclude that: eccentric contacts have higher potential to develop abfraction lesions on the cervical region of teeth, thus increasing the magnitude of tensile and shear stresses.KeywordsFinite Elements Analysis, Abfraction; Stress distribution; Occlusion, Premolar.
Eje 1. Documentales, actores, personajes y circuitos de circulación: Algo más que filmes para la Corona. John Grierson y el Movimiento Documental Británico
Authors: Campo Javier
Published: December 2017

El primer movimiento cinematográfico en la historia del cine documental fue uno de los más controversiales, inasibles y malinterpretados de todos. El Movimiento Documental Británico, surgido al amparo de instituciones estatales, fue justamente definido más corrientemente por su vinculación con los intereses de la Corona y el gobierno inglés que por su aporte al desarrollo del cine documental durante sus primeros veinte años de vida.En buena medida las manifestaciones de los realizadores protagonistas de esta historia (y no las representaciones configuradas por los mismos) otorgaron materia a las malas interpretaciones posteriores. Pero en este estudio incluiremos lo que pocos: las películas. Es allí en donde los estudios sobre el Movimiento Británico no se pararon más que circunstancialmente. Es allí también en donde encontraremos los elementos que nos permitirán superar el umbral de «lo pedagógico  institucional» de este conjunto de filmes para recuperar la real envergadura de los trabajos de Grierson y sus muchachos. Es allí en donde, por último, como dice Brian Winston: «Grierson y sus seguidores pusieron los problemas sociales con una puesta “poética”» (1995:55).
ANN based Joint Time and frequency analysis of EEG for detection of driver drowsiness
Authors: Dabbu Suman , Malini M. , Reddy B. Ram , Vyza Yashwanth Sai Reddy
Published: December 2017

Drowsiness detection plays a vital role in accidents avoidance systems, thereby saving many precious lives. According to the World Health Organization, Drowsiness has been the radical contributor of road fatalities. Electroencephalogram (EEG) is a physiological signal which relays the functioning of Brain and widely used in the diagnosis of Neurological Disorders. This study extrapolates the EEG signal analysis to examine several cognitive tasks. In this report, the EEG signal is processed to detect the behavioural patterns of the brain and drowsiness state of the drivers while performing monotonous driving for long distances. An eight-channel EEG data acquisition system is used to acquire the EEG data from 20 male volunteers. The EEG signal is pre-processed and decomposed into various rhythms by applying Digital filter in MATLAB 2007b (Mathworks, Inc., USA). Time-Frequency Domain analysis has been done to extract certain features PSG and PRMSD which are statistically significant (ρ < 0.05) in the detection of drowsiness. The driving profile is classified into Active and Drowsy by a threshold, and linear regression analysis has been performed on the features extracted. A Drowsiness index is proposed stating a positive correlation (0.8-0.9) between the Total mean and the drowsy mean of the subject.
In vitro evaluation of neutral oximes as reactivators of parathion-inhibited electric eel acetylcholinesterase
Authors: Lima Joselia A. , Cavalcanti Laura P.A.N. , Aguiar Alcino P. , Rezende Claudia M. , Lima Keila S.C. , Lima Antonio L.S.
Published: December 2017

Organophosphorus (OP) compounds are irreversible inhibitors of acetylcholinesterase (AChE) commonly used as pesticides and, unfortunately, as nerve agents in terrorist attacks. These compounds are highly soluble easily crossing the blood-brain barrier (BBB). Clinically, oximes such as pralidoxime and obidoxime are used for the reactivation of AChE. These oximes are not sufficiently effective to reactivate AChE inhibited by different OPs besides the fact that they are permanently charged and do not readily cross the BBB. This work evaluated the ability of ten neutral oximes to reactivate parathion-inhibited eel AChE. Because oximes can bind to AChE as reversible inhibitors, this property was also evaluated, with pralidoxime (2-PAM) used as a reference compound. Unlike 2-PAM, which inhibited AChE in a concentration-dependent manner, neutral oximes were not good inhibitors of AChE. Neutral ligands can present affinity for the PAS site. Neutral oximes 1 and 2 (200 mM) reactivated parathion-inhibited eel AChE by 9% and 11%, respectively; but neither of them surpassed the reactivation efficacy of 2-PAM (25%). Neutral oximes 1 and 2 reactivated AChE at a safe concentration for humans. Both neutral oximes 1 and 2 are good non-quaternary moieties for the synthesis of conjugates with enhanced reactivation potency and BBB penetration.
Biological Radioprotection: Six Decades of Scientific Struggle
Authors: Kumar Raj
Published: December 2017

Welcome to this special issue on ‘biological radioprotection’ of Defence Life Science Journal (DLSJ). The journal is published by Defence Scientific Information & Documentation Centre (DESIDOC) on behalf of Defence Research and Development Organization (DRDO), Govt. of India. Biological radioprotection is an uncherris goal for radiation biologist at global scale. Despite six decade’s continuous efforts, global scientific community is still searching for a radiation countermeasure agent which can be used during radiation emergency scenario. Though, few radioprotective agents received IND status by US-FDA however, so far not a single drug is approved for human uses globally. The major obstacles to achieve biological radioprotection are i.e. variable severity of biological damage with different types of radiation and dose rate, differential RBE for low LET and high LET radiation, variable radiosensitivity of biological systems, unpractical time and drug therapeutic dose window and unacceptable toxicity at efficacious dose of a radioprotective agent, etc.