bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Phagosome maturation in polarized macrophages
Authors: Canton Johnathan
Published: May 2014

Macrophages are capable of assuming distinct, meta-stable, functional phenotypes in response to environmental cues—a process referred to as macrophage polarization. The identity and plasticity of polarized macrophage subsets as well as their functions in the maintenance of homeostasis and the progression of various pathologies have become areas of intense interest. Yet, the mechanisms by which they achieve subset-specific functions at the cellular level remain unclear. It is becoming apparent that phagocytosis and phagosome maturation differ depending on the polarization of macrophages. This minireview summarizes recent progress in this field, highlighting developing trends and discussing the molecular mechanisms that underlie subset-specific functions.
TheCebpa+37-kb enhancer directs transgene expression to myeloid progenitors and to long-term hematopoietic stem cells
Authors: Guo Hong , Ma Ou , Friedman Alan D
Published: May 2014

C/EBPα is expressed preferentially in myeloid compared with lymphoid or erythroid cells and directs myeloid lineage specification. C/EBPα is also expressed at lower levels in HSCs and in several nonhematopoietic tissues. The Cebpa gene has a conserved, 450-bp segment at +37 kb that harbors enhancer-specific epigenetic marks and is activate in a myeloid cell line. Herein, we characterize transgenic C57BL/6 mice, in which the Cebpa enhancer and 845-bp promoter regulate a hCD4 reporter. FACS analysis, in vitro colony assays, and in vivo competitive and secondary transplantation revealed that myeloid but not MEPs or lymphoid progenitors and also functional LT-HSCs are found almost exclusively in the Cebpa-hCD4+ compared with hCD4− marrow population. hCD4+ CMP yielded predominantly myeloid, whereas hCD4− CMP generated mainly Meg/E colonies. Providing insight into control of CMP maturation, Cebpa and Pu.1 RNAs were preferentially expressed in hCD4+ CMP, Scl, Gata2, Gata1, Klf1, Ets1, and Fli1 predominated in hCD4− CMP, and Runx1, Myb, HoxA9, and Erg levels were similar in both. Cebpa-hCD4 transgene expression was lacking in multiple nonhematopoietic tissues. In summary, the +37-kb Cebpa enhancer and promoter are sufficient for marrow myeloid progenitor and LT-HSC-specific expression.
The structural index in gravity and magnetic interpretation: Errors, uses, and abuses
Authors: Reid Alan B. , Thurston Jeffrey B.
Published: May 2014

The structural index (SI) is based on the concept of Euler homogeneity, a description of scaling behavior. It has found wide use in potential-field depth estimation and is a constant integer for simple sources with single singularities (points, lines, thin-bed faults, sheet edges, infinite contacts). For these cases, the SI is identical to the index of a simple power-law field fall-off with distance. The simple Euler formulation is only strictly correct for such simple sources and integer SI values. The widespread use of the simple Euler method on more complex structures, using fractional SI values is likely to produce misleading results because the SI is no longer a constant for any given source. We examine a recently published example that used an arbitrary SI to estimate depth to the base of the crust for Africa and produced misleading results. Extension to more complex sources such as tabular bodies or thick steps requires one of several more generalized approaches, which recognize all variables with spatial dimensions (including source size parameters) and may make use of negative SI values, address omitted variable bias or use an explicit multiple-source formulation. An alternative approach using homogeneity via differential similarity transforms is probably the best way forward. An error in the literature is corrected: the gravity SI for a finite step is [Formula: see text], but it requires a more generalized formulation. We develop a new terminology, fractional SI, [Formula: see text], which is permitted to take fractional values and makes no pretense to honor concepts of homogeneity.
Inelastic Higher-Mode Response in Reinforced Concrete Wall Structures
Authors: Pennucci Domenico , Sullivan Timothy J. , Calvi Gian Michele
Published: May 2014

This study presents the results of a nonlinear response-history (NLRH) investigation of cantilever and coupled wall systems, in which the contribution of higher modes to the dynamic response is significant. The limitations of the so-called reduced response spectrum analysis method to predict higher-mode inelastic response are identified and the reasons for its shortcomings are explained. Two procedures for the prediction of the inelastic response of higher modes are presented. The first method is based on the substitute structure method and requires only elastic modal analysis, making it particularly fit for traditional design purposes. The second method is based on structural dynamics closed-form solutions, and it does not require finite element method (FEM) analysis, making it particularly fit for simplified capacity design purposes. The approaches show very good agreement with the results of the NLRH investigation for any structural period, ductility demand, and coupling ratio. Future research should aim to further verify the new methods using more refined modeling and analysis approaches.
Risk of Hospitalization According to Chemotherapy Regimen in Early-Stage Breast Cancer
Authors: Barcenas Carlos H. , Niu Jiangong , Zhang Ning , Zhang Yufeng , Buchholz Thomas A. , Elting Linda S. , Hortobagyi Gabriel N. , Smith Benjamin D. , Giordano Sharon H.
Published: May 2014

Purpose

To compare the risk of hospitalization between patients with early-stage breast cancer who received different chemotherapy regimens.

Patient and Methods

We identified 3,567 patients older than age 65 years from the SEER/Texas Cancer Registry-Medicare database and 9,327 patients younger than age 65 years from the MarketScan database who were diagnosed with early-stage breast cancer between 2003 and 2007. The selection was nonrandomized and nonprospectively collected. We categorized patients according to the regimens they received: docetaxel (T) and cyclophosphamide (C), doxorubicin (A) and C, TAC, AC + T, dose-dense AC + paclitaxel (P) or AC + weekly P. We compared the rates of chemotherapy-related hospitalizations that occurred within 6 months of chemotherapy initiation and used multivariable logistic regression analysis to identify the factors associated with these hospitalizations.

Results

Among patients younger than age 65 years, the hospitalization rates ranged from 6.2% (dose-dense AC + P) to 10.0% (TAC), and those who received TAC and AC + T had significantly higher rates of hospitalization than did patients who received TC. Among patients older than age 65 years, these rates ranged from 12.7% (TC) to 24.2% (TAC) and the rates of hospitalization of patients who received TAC, AC + T, AC, or AC + weekly P were higher than those of patients who received TC.

Conclusion

TAC and AC + T were associated with the highest risk of hospitalization in patients younger than age 65 years. Among patients older than age 65 years, all regimens (aside from dose-dense AC + P) were associated with a higher risk of hospitalization than TC. Results may be affected by selection biases where less aggressive regimens are offered to frailer patients.
Longitudinal Assessment of Chemotherapy-Induced Alterations in Brain Activation During Multitasking and Its Relation With Cognitive Complaints
Authors: Deprez Sabine , Vandenbulcke Mathieu , Peeters Ronald , Emsell Louise , Smeets Ann , Christiaens Marie-Rose , Amant Frederic , Sunaert Stefan
Published: May 2014

Purpose

To examine whether cognitive complaints after treatment for breast cancer are associated with detectable changes in brain activity during multitasking.

Patients and Methods

Eighteen patients who were scheduled to receive chemotherapy performed a functional magnetic resonance imaging multitasking task in the scanner before the start of treatment (t1) and 4 to 6 months after finishing treatment (t2). Sixteen patients who were not scheduled to receive chemotherapy and 17 matched healthy controls performed the same task at matched intervals. Task difficulty level was adjusted individually to match performance across participants. Statistical Parametric Mapping 8 (SPM8) software was used for within-group, between-group, and group-by-time interaction image analyses.

Results

Voxel-based paired t tests revealed significantly decreased activation (P < .05) from t1 to t2 at matched performance in the multitasking network of chemotherapy-treated patients, whereas no changes were noted in either of the control groups. At baseline, there were no differences between the groups. Furthermore, in contrast to controls, the chemotherapy-treated patients reported a significant increase in cognitive complaints (P < .05) at t2. Significant (P < .05) correlations were found between these increases and decreases in multitasking-related brain activation. Moreover, a significant group-by-time interaction (P < .05) was found whereby chemotherapy-treated patients showed decreased activation and healthy controls did not.

Conclusion

These results suggest that changes in brain activity may underlie chemotherapy-induced cognitive complaints. The observed changes might be related to chemotherapy-induced damage to the brain or reduced connectivity between brain regions rather than to changes in effort or changes in functional strategy. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first longitudinal study providing evidence for a relationship between longitudinal changes in cognitive complaints and changes in brain activation after chemotherapy.
Adjuvant Endocrine Therapy for Women With Hormone Receptor–Positive Breast Cancer: American Society of Clinical Oncology Clinical Practice Guideline Focused Update
Authors: Burstein Harold J. , Temin Sarah , Anderson Holly , Buchholz Thomas A. , Davidson Nancy E. , Gelmon Karen E. , Giordano Sharon H. , Hudis Clifford A. , Rowden Diana , Solky Alexander J. , Stearns Vered , Winer Eric P. , Griggs Jennifer J.
Published: May 2014

Purpose

To update the ASCO clinical practice guideline on adjuvant endocrine therapy on the basis of emerging data on the optimal duration of treatment, particularly adjuvant tamoxifen.

Methods

ASCO convened the Update Committee and conducted a systematic review of randomized clinical trials from January 2009 to June 2013 and analyzed three historical trials. Guideline recommendations were based on the Update Committee's review of the evidence. Outcomes of interest included survival, disease recurrence, and adverse events.

Results

This guideline update reflects emerging data on duration of tamoxifen treatment. There have been five studies of tamoxifen treatment beyond 5 years of therapy. The two largest studies with longest reported follow-up show a breast cancer survival advantage with 10-year durations of tamoxifen use. In addition to modest gains in survival, extended therapy with tamoxifen for 10 years compared with 5 years was associated with lower risks of breast cancer recurrence and contralateral breast cancer.

Recommendations

Previous ASCO guidelines recommended treatment of women who have hormone receptor–positive breast cancer and are premenopausal with 5 years of tamoxifen, and those who are postmenopausal a minimum of 5 years of adjuvant therapy with an aromatase inhibitor or tamoxifen followed by an aromatase inhibitor (in sequence). If women are pre- or perimenopausal and have received 5 years of adjuvant tamoxifen, they should be offered 10 years total duration of tamoxifen. If women are postmenopausal and have received 5 years of adjuvant tamoxifen, they should be offered the choice of continuing tamoxifen or switching to an aromatase inhibitor for 10 years total adjuvant endocrine therapy.
Understanding positional cues in salamander limb regeneration: implications for optimizing cell-based regenerative therapies
Authors: McCusker Catherine D. , Gardiner David M.
Published: May 2014

Regenerative medicine has reached the point where we are performing clinical trials with stem-cell-derived cell populations in an effort to treat numerous human pathologies. However, many of these efforts have been challenged by the inability of the engrafted populations to properly integrate into the host environment to make a functional biological unit. It is apparent that we must understand the basic biology of tissue integration in order to apply these principles to the development of regenerative therapies in humans. Studying tissue integration in model organisms, where the process of integration between the newly regenerated tissues and the ‘old’ existing structures can be observed and manipulated, can provide valuable insights. Embryonic and adult cells have a memory of their original position, and this positional information can modify surrounding tissues and drive the formation of new structures. In this Review, we discuss the positional interactions that control the ability of grafted cells to integrate into existing tissues during the process of salamander limb regeneration, and discuss how these insights could explain the integration defects observed in current cell-based regenerative therapies. Additionally, we describe potential molecular tools that can be used to manipulate the positional information in grafted cell populations, and to promote the communication of positional cues in the host environment to facilitate the integration of engrafted cells. Lastly, we explain how studying positional information in current cell-based therapies and in regenerating limbs could provide key insights to improve the integration of cell-based regenerative therapies in the future.
Physiological basis of starvation resistance inDrosophila leontia: analysis of sexual dimorphism
Authors: Aggarwal Dau Dayal
Published: May 2014

Geographically varying starvation stress has often been considered as a natural selector that constrains between-population differences for starvation resistance (SR) in Drosophila species. On the Indian subcontinent, a dozen Drosophila species have shown clinal variations in SR across latitude, but the evolved physiological basis of such contrasting adaptations is largely unknown. In the present study, I untangled the physiological basis of sex-specific as well as between-population divergence for SR in D. leontia, collected across a latitudinal transect of the Indian subcontinent (11°45′–31°19′N). Secondly, I tested the assumptions that hardening to starvation stress facilitates an increased survival under subsequent lethal levels of starvation, and such plastic effects differ between the sexes. I observed several interesting results. In contrast to a steeper cline of starvation-related traits with latitude in females, a shallower gradient was observed for males. Females stored higher (~1.3-fold) dry-mass-specific levels of body lipids and glycogen contents, and utilized these both of these energy resources under starvation stress, whereas the starved males metabolized only body lipids as a source of energy. Conversely, the rate of body lipid utilization and threshold need were considerably higher in females as compared with males. Between-population differences were significant for storage levels of energy reserves only, but not for other avenues (rate of metabolite utilization and threshold need) of SR for both sexes. These findings indicate that multiple pathways shape the physiological basis of sexual dimorphism for SR in D. leontia. Further, single or multiple bouts of starvation hardening conferred an increased longevity (~4–9 h; P<0.001) under subsequent lethal levels of starvation stress for females only, and such plastic responses were consistent with a decrease in rate of metabolite utilization. Nevertheless, between-population effects were non-significant for absolute hardening capacity (AHC=KSR–C). Altogether, these findings suggest that similar evolutionary constraints have resulted in divergent genetic as well as plastic responses to evolve adaptations under starvation stress, and account for the observed sexual dimorphism for basal SR in D. leontia.
Effect of the Electron Density of the Heme Fe Atom on the Fe–Histidine Coordination Bond in Deoxy Myoglobin
Authors: Nishimura Ryu , Shibata Tomokazu , Tai Hulin , Ishigami Izumi , Yanagisawa Sachiko , Ogura Takashi , Neya Saburo , Suzuki Akihiro , Yamamoto Yasuhiko
Published: May 2014

The stretching frequency of the coordination bond between the heme Fe atom and proximal histidine (His93) Nε atom (νFe–His), and the NMR shift of the His93NδH proton (His93NδH shift) of the deoxy form of a hemoprotein have been used to determine the electronic nature of the His93 imidazole highly relevant to regulation of heme Fe reactivity. We determined the νFe–His values and His93NδH shifts of the deoxy forms of myoglobins reconstituted with artificial heme cofactors possessing strongly electron-withdrawing trifluoromethyl (CF3) group(s) as peripheral side chain(s). The study revealed that the bond between the heme Fe and His93 becomes stronger with increasing number of CF3 substitutions due to an increase in acidity of the His93NδH hydrogen bonded to the carbonyl O atom of Leu89. Thus, the present study demonstrated that the electronic nature of the His93 imidazole in deoxy Mb is affected by electronic perturbation induced by chemical modification of the heme cofactor.
Tenure, Experience, Human Capital, and Wages: A Tractable Equilibrium Search Model of Wage Dynamics
Authors: Bagger Jesper , Fontaine François , Postel-Vinay Fabien , Robin Jean-Marc
Published: May 2014

We develop and estimate an equilibrium job search model of worker careers, allowing for human capital accumulation, employer heterogeneity, and individual-level shocks. Wage growth is decomposed into contributions of human capital and job search, within and between jobs. Human capital accumulation is largest for highly educated workers. The contribution from job search to wage growth, both within and between jobs, declines over the first ten years of a career—the “job-shopping” phase of a working life—after which workers settle into high-quality jobs using outside offers to generate gradual wage increases, thus reaping the benefits from competition between employers. (JEL J24, J31, J63, J64)
The Effect of Uncertainty on Investment: Evidence from Texas Oil Drilling
Authors: Kellogg Ryan
Published: May 2014

This paper estimates the response of investment to changes in uncertainty using data on oil drilling in Texas and the expected volatility of the future price of oil. Using a dynamic model of firms' investment problem, I find that: (i) the response of drilling activity to changes in price volatility has a magnitude consistent with the optimal response prescribed by theory, (ii) the cost of failing to respond to volatility shocks is economically significant, and (iii) implied volatility data derived from futures options prices yields a better fit to firms' investment behavior than backward-looking volatility measures such as GARCH. (JEL C58, D92, G13, G31, L71, Q31)
Evolutionary Origins of the Endowment Effect: Evidence from Hunter-Gatherers
Authors: Apicella Coren L. , Azevedo Eduardo M. , Christakis Nicholas A. , Fowler James H.
Published: May 2014

The endowment effect, the tendency to value possessions more than non-possessions, is a well-known departure from rational choice and has been replicated in numerous settings. We investigate the universality of the endowment effect, its evolutionary significance, and its dependence on environmental factors. We experimentally test for the endowment effect in an isolated and evolutionarily relevant population of hunter-gatherers, the Hadza Bushmen of Northern Tanzania. We find that Hadza living in isolated regions do not display the endowment effect, while Hadza living in a geographic region with increased exposure to modern society and markets do display the endowment effect. (JEL C93, D12, O15)
Does Growing Up in a High Crime Neighborhood Affect Youth Criminal Behavior?
Authors: Damm Anna Piil , Dustmann Christian
Published: May 2014

This paper investigates the effect of early exposure to neighborhood crime on subsequent criminal behavior of youth exploiting a unique natural experiment between 1986 and 1998 when refugee immigrants to Denmark were assigned to neighborhoods quasi-randomly. We find strong evidence that the share of young people convicted for crimes, in particular violent crimes, in the neighborhood increases convictions of male assignees later in life. No such effects are found for other measures of neighborhood crime including the rate of committed crimes. Our findings suggest social interaction as a key channel through which neighborhood crime is linked to individual criminal behavior. (JEL J13, J15, K42, R23, Z13)
Aid Under Fire: Development Projects and Civil Conflict
Authors: Crost Benjamin , Felter Joseph , Johnston Patrick
Published: May 2014

We estimate the causal effect of a large development program on conflict in the Philippines through a regression discontinuity design that exploits an arbitrary poverty threshold used to assign eligibility for the program. We find that barely eligible municipalities experienced a large increase in conflict casualties compared to barely ineligible ones. This increase is mostly due to insurgent-initiated incidents in the early stages of program preparation. Our results are consistent with the hypothesis that insurgents try to sabotage the program because its success would weaken their support in the population. (JEL D74, F35, I32, I38, O15, O17, O18, O19)
Native mitochondrial RNA-binding complexes in kinetoplastid RNA editing differ in guide RNA composition
Authors: Madina Bhaskara R. , Kumar Vikas , Metz Richard , Mooers Blaine H.M. , Bundschuh Ralf , Cruz-Reyes Jorge
Published: May 2014

Mitochondrial mRNAs in kinetoplastids require extensive U-insertion/deletion editing that progresses 3′-to-5′ in small blocks, each directed by a guide RNA (gRNA), and exhibits substrate and developmental stage-specificity by unsolved mechanisms. Here, we address compositionally related factors, collectively known as the mitochondrial RNA-binding complex 1 (MRB1) or gRNA-binding complex (GRBC), that contain gRNA, have a dynamic protein composition, and transiently associate with several mitochondrial factors including RNA editing core complexes (RECC) and ribosomes. MRB1 controls editing by still unknown mechanisms. We performed the first next-generation sequencing study of native subcomplexes of MRB1, immunoselected via either RNA helicase 2 (REH2), that binds RNA and associates with unwinding activity, or MRB3010, that affects an early editing step. The particles contain either REH2 or MRB3010 but share the core GAP1 and other proteins detected by RNA photo-crosslinking. Analyses of the first editing blocks indicate an enrichment of several initiating gRNAs in the MRB3010-purified complex. Our data also indicate fast evolution of mRNA 3′ ends and strain-specific alternative 3′ editing within 3′ UTR or C-terminal protein-coding sequence that could impact mitochondrial physiology. Moreover, we found robust specific copurification of edited and pre-edited mRNAs, suggesting that these particles may bind both mRNA and gRNA editing substrates. We propose that multiple subcomplexes of MRB1 with different RNA/protein composition serve as a scaffold for specific assembly of editing substrates and RECC, thereby forming the editing holoenzyme. The MRB3010-subcomplex may promote early editing through its preferential recruitment of initiating gRNAs.
The folding of 5′-UTR human G-quadruplexes possessing a long central loop
Authors: Jodoin Rachel , Bauer Lubos , Garant Jean-Michel , Mahdi Laaref Abdelhamid , Phaneuf Francis , Perreault Jean-Pierre
Published: May 2014

G-quadruplexes are widespread four-stranded structures that are adopted by G-rich regions of both DNA and RNA and are involved in essential biological processes such as mRNA translation. They are formed by the stacking of two or more G-quartets that are linked together by three loops. Although the maximal loop length is usually fixed to 7 nt in most G-quadruplex-predicting software, it has already been demonstrated that artificial DNA G-quadruplexes containing two distal loops that are limited to 1 nt each and a central loop up to 30 nt long are likely to form in vitro. This report demonstrates that such structures possessing a long central loop are actually found in the 5′-UTRs of human mRNAs. Firstly, 1453 potential G-quadruplex-forming sequences (PG4s) were identified through a bioinformatic survey that searched for sequences respecting the requirement for two 1-nt long distal loops and a long central loop of 2–90 nt in length. Secondly, in vitro in-line probing experiments confirmed and characterized the folding of eight candidates possessing central loops of 10–70 nt long. Finally, the biological effect of several G-quadruplexes with a long central loop on mRNA expression was studied in cellulo using a luciferase gene reporter assay. Clearly, the actual definition of G-quadruplex-forming sequences is too conservative and must be expanded to include the long central loop. This greatly expands the number of expected PG4s in the transcriptome. Consideration of these new candidates might aid in elucidating the potentially important biological implications of the G-quadruplex structure.
Biochemical defects in minor spliceosome function in the developmental disorder MOPD I
Authors: Jafarifar Faegheh , Dietrich Rosemary C. , Hiznay James M. , Padgett Richard A.
Published: May 2014

Biallelic mutations of the human RNU4ATAC gene, which codes for the minor spliceosomal U4atac snRNA, cause the developmental disorder, MOPD I/TALS. To date, nine separate mutations in RNU4ATAC have been identified in MOPD I patients. Evidence suggests that all of these mutations lead to abrogation of U4atac snRNA function and impaired minor intron splicing. However, the molecular basis of these effects is unknown. Here, we use a variety of in vitro and in vivo assays to address this question. We find that only one mutation, 124G>A, leads to significantly reduced expression of U4atac snRNA, whereas four mutations, 30G>A, 50G>A, 50G>C and 51G>A, show impaired binding of essential protein components of the U4atac/U6atac di-snRNP in vitro and in vivo. Analysis of MOPD I patient fibroblasts and iPS cells homozygous for the most common mutation, 51G>A, shows reduced levels of the U4atac/U6atac.U5 tri-snRNP complex as determined by glycerol gradient sedimentation and immunoprecipitation. In this report, we establish a mechanistic basis for MOPD I disease and show that the inefficient splicing of genes containing U12-dependent introns in patient cells is due to defects in minor tri-snRNP formation, and the MOPD I-associated RNU4ATAC mutations can affect multiple facets of minor snRNA function.
Peculiarities of tourism-for-children service environment
Authors: Голикова Ольга , Golikova Olga
Published: May 2014

Tourism for children is a priority area of tourism development both in and outside the Russian Federation. The demand for children-oriented tours enjoys a steady growth. At the same time, the parents’ requirements are increasingly rigorous. Among the major requirements are safety and a high level of service. The article considers the principal peculiarities of organization tourism for children and, consequently, the specific features of the service environment.
Challenges to small hotel business development in the Rostov region
Authors: Толоконникова Ирина , Tolokonnikova Irina , Харитонова Наталья , Kharitonova Natalya
Published: May 2014

The article deals with the major challenges to the development of small hotel business in the context of a general tourist activity growth in the Rostov region. The authors identify the main lines of state and municipal support of small enterprises established to cater for tourists.
Employee performance assessment as a basis for HR management system development
Authors: Данилова Вероника , Danilova Veronika , Морозова Любовь , Morozova Lyubov , Ананьев Александр , Ananev Aleksandr , Литвинова Елена , Litvinova Elena
Published: May 2014

The article dwells upon the major methodological approaches to the development and implementation of a complex system of a service company’s employee performance assessment. The authors define the role and significance of employee performance assessment in the general framework of HR and organizational management. Special attention is paid to the essential principles and methods of employee performance assessment, the issues of the assessment procedure development and design, the current forms of personnel motivation to acquire new knowledge and skills. The authors consider the issues of employee self-esteem regulation, the impact of external and internal factors on the objective personnel assessment, and the automated employee performance assessment. Emphasis is laid on developing unconventional methods of employee performance assessment and improving the training of HR assessment experts.
METAL FLOW DURING EXTRUSION OF NON-CIRCULAR SECTIONS
Authors: Pawłowska Beata
Published: May 2014

The paper presents the analysis of nature of metal flow during extrusion of non-circular sections and determining the relationship between extrusion force and geometrical parameters of extrudate (the shape of the extrudate). Experimental procedure was curried out for the simplest cases of non-circular profiles (triangle, square, rectangular) of various geometrical parameters. The extrusion load and punch displacement have been registered during experimental work. By determining parameters of metal plastic flow (the depth of plastic zone Lp and the dead zone angle sm) it has been shown the difference in nature of metal flow during extrusion product differing in non-circular sections. This differentiation results in the complex nature of flow consequential from change with circular section of the billet to non-circular section of extrudate.It has been shown that flow resistance can be different with regard to appearing configurations of deformation zones (the size and shape of plastic zone, dead and shear zones) and dependent from for example geometrical parameters of a die (shape and size of an die orifice).
CONTINOUSLY CAST BLOOM WITH INTERNAL DEFECT - FEM MODEL OPTIMIZATION
Authors: Kvíčala Miroslav , Hendrych Aleš , Frydrýšek Karel
Published: May 2014

Continuously cast round blooms from vanadium microalloyed steel denoted as 25CrMo4 type are very sensitive to internal defect creation during casting. Further propagation of internal cracks is affected by suboptimal heating preceding the hot rolling process. FEM offers powerful tool for simulation of the temperature gradients and stress-strain behavior. In this paper it is demonstrated that proper selection of FEM model is essential to get trustworthy results corresponding with practical observations. It is possible to find optimum between two contradictory requirements – acceptable computation time severity and trustworthy results, if the simple model is compared with experimental data and/or more sophisticated models.
EXPERIMENTAL INVESTIGATIONS OF ALUMINIUM ALLOYS 2024 –T 3 FORM IN TERMS OF TRIBOCORROSION CHARACTERISTICS
Authors: Bronček Jozef , Dzimko Marián , Hadzima Branislav , Takeichi Yoshinori
Published: May 2014

Results of” ball on disc” principle tests to examine the friction coefficient and wear rate of Aluminium Alloys 2024–T3 are presented. Tribocorrosion experiments were performed using a pin on disc tribometer under controlled electrochemical conditions in NaCl solution. This paper reviews the available knowledge relating to the tribocorrosion. Tribocorrosion can be defined as a degradation phenomenon of material surfaces (wear, cracking, corrosion, etc.) subjected to the combined action of mechanical loading (friction, abrasion, erosion, etc.) and corrosion attack caused by the environment (chemical and/or electrochemical interaction), as highlighted in Figure. Experimental confirmations of improving electrochemical properties of the aluminium alloy AW 2024 by anode oxidation and extension of the period of excitement AW 2024 after adjusting surface anode oxidation are documented.
EXPERIMENTAL STUDY OF THE PHYSICAL FACTORS' INFLUENCE ON MICROHARDNESS OF AAO LAYERS GENERATED ON MATERIAL'S AW-1050A
Authors: Spišák Emil , Majerníková Janka , Gombár Miroslav , Vagaská Alena , Kmec Ján , Stachowicz Feliks
Published: May 2014

With the aim to improve the mechanical properties of the layer deposited by anodic oxidation of aluminum on material EN AW-1050 A-H24, in this paper was investigated the microhardness of generated layer as a function of physical and chemical factors acting in the process of anodic oxidation at constant current density JA = 3 A.dm-2 in electrolyte, constituted by sulfuric acid and oxalic acid, with the emphasis on physical factors: the electrolyte temperature, time and applied anodizing voltage. The model of studied dependence was compiled based on mathematical and statistical analysis of matrix of obtained experimental data from experiment composite rotation plan with five independent variables factors. The experiment was carried out on 44 separate attempts with the current change of values of the separate factors under defined levels in each implementation.
STUDY OF WEAR PROCESSES OF WELD CLADS
Authors: Brezinová Janette , Guzanová Anna , Maruschak Pavlo , Lorincová Denisa
Published: May 2014

This paper deals with the analysis of the renovation layer quality of continuous casting steel rolls, developed through the submerged arc surfacing method (SAW). The continuous casting roll was analysed via the degradation phenomena which act during the operation. Four kinds of filler materials were used for the renovation of the worn roll. Surfacing was carried out as a three-layer in order to eliminate the need for intermediate layer formation. The quality of weld deposits was evaluated in terms of the structure, hardness and wear resistance of weld deposits at 23°C and 400°C using pin-on-disc wear test. The best properties showed newly developed filler material W8-WLDC8 from the point of view of the hardness, together with wear resistance of the deposited layers in room and elevated temperatures.
NUMERICAL MODELING OF STEEL FLOW IN A MULTI-STRAND CONTINUOUS CASTING TUNDISH
Authors: Warzecha Marek
Published: May 2014

The tundish is an important unit in a continuous casting device. The flow of the liquid steel in tundishes has a crucial influence on quality of steel, which is nowadays defined by the number and size of non-metallic inclusions. In order to improve the process of removal of inclusions from liquid steel, investigations are being made worldwide to obtain the most favourable shape of the tundish working space to control the flow. The main purpose of research presented in this paper was to analyze the liquid steel flow structure and temperature distribution in the investigated continuous casting tundish. Numerical simulations of liquid steel flow through the tundish were carried out using commercial computational fluid dynamics (CFD) software AnsysFluent. The results of numerical simulation allow to diagnose the tundish with currently working configuration.
A Longitudinal Follow-Up Study of Affect in Children and Adults With Cornelia de Lange Syndrome
Authors: Nelson Lisa , Moss Jo , Oliver Chris
Published: May 2014

Studies of individuals with Cornelia de Lange syndrome (CdLS) have described changes in mood and behavior with age, although no empirical or longitudinal studies have been conducted. Caregivers of individuals with CdLS (N  =  67), cri du chat syndrome (CdCS; N  =  42), and Fragile X syndrome (FXS; N  =  142) completed the Mood, Interest and Pleasure Questionnaire (MIPQ) at Time 1 and 2 years later (Time 2). Scores on the MIPQ were significantly lower in the CdLS group compared with the CdCS and FXS groups at Time 1 and Time 2. Lower MIPQ scores were characteristic of older adolescents (> 15 years) and adults with CdLS. However, there were no significant differences in MIPQ scores between Time 1 and Time 2. Age and insistence on sameness predicted MIPQ scores in CdLS.
French Women and the Global Fight for Faith: Catholic International Religious Outreach in Turn-of-the-Century France
Authors: Machen Emily
Published: May 2014

In the years before World War I, French Catholic women played a critical role in facilitating cooperation among Catholic women globally to solve problems such as poverty, class conflict, and religious disaffection. French Catholic women created international religious organizations and developed correspondence networks among Catholic women throughout the world. French Catholic women’s international programs allowed the French Catholic community to demonstrate its vitality at a time when religion seemed threatened by secularism. International faith-based engagement also opened up leadership opportunities for Catholic women, and it promoted women’s equality in the political and religious realms.
Examining Benefits of Academic–Community Research Team Training: Rochester’s Suicide Prevention Training Institutes
Authors: White Ann Marie , Lu Naiji , Cerulli Catherine , Tu Xin
Published: May 2014

Background : Although community-engaged research (CER), including community-based participatory research (CBPR), is a growing approach in addressing health disparities, little scientific study on how to enhance its processes or products exists. These fields are built on practice-based case studies, evaluations, and qualitative examinations of principles in action. This gap is as an emerging priority in the clinical and translation sciences. Objectives : We designed a 5-day workshop for academic–community research teams in suicide prevention and health promotion, broadly defined. Seasoned academic and community partners developed and implemented curriculum at three training institutes from 2007 to 2010. We developed self-report tools to evaluate this training model for CER practice. We crafted and evaluated both mediating processes and outcome measures for academic and community partners to assess team CER development. Methods : We analyzed post-training evaluation surveys completed late in 2010. We conducted exploratory factor analysis on survey data from 48 community or academic partners. These team members participated in at least one National Institutes of Health-funded CER training institute to advance suicide prevention, broadly defined. Conclusions : Partnership development measures that capture both academic and community perspectives demonstrate reliability and validity. Multidimensional latent constructs for inclusion in CER development models included partnership agency, personal knowledge and capacities, and benefits of collaborative research partnerships over time. We discuss the utility of findings to future CER training design and study.
Building Partnerships With Rural Arkansas Faith Communities to Promote Veterans’ Mental Health: Lessons Learned
Authors: Sullivan Greer , Hunt Justin , Haynes Tiffany F. , Bryant Keneshia , Cheney Ann M. , Pyne Jeffrey M. , Reaves Christina , Sullivan Steve , Lewis Caleb , Barnes Bonita , Barnes Michael , Hudson Cliff , Jegley Susan , Larkin Bridgette , Russell Shane , White Penny , Gilmore LaNissa , Claypoole Sterling
Published: May 2014

Background : The Mental Health–Clergy Partnership Program established partnerships between institutional (Department of Veterans’ Affairs [VA] chaplains, mental health providers) and community (local clergy, parishioners) groups to develop programs to assist rural veterans with mental health needs. Objectives : Describe the development, challenges, and lessons learned from the Mental Health–Clergy Partnership Program in three Arkansas towns between 2009 and 2012. Methods : Researchers identified three rural Arkansas sites, established local advisory boards, and obtained quantitative ratings of the extent to which partnerships were participatory. Results : Partnerships seemed to become more participatory over time. Each site developed distinctive programs with variation in fidelity to original program goals. Challenges included developing trust and maintaining racial diversity in local program leadership. Conclusions : Academics can partner with local faith communities to create unique programs that benefit the mental health of returning veterans. Research is needed to determine the effectiveness of community based programs, especially relative to typical “top-down” outreach approaches.
Refining the Research Infrastructure at Community Health Centers
Authors: Oneha Mary Frances , Dodgson Joan E.
Published: May 2014

Background : Community health centers (CHC) often partner with academics to conduct community-based participatory research (CBPR). Because of their research expertise, academic partners are usually the principal investigators (PIs); however, moving the home base of research to the community can prove beneficial to the CHC and its community. Objectives : The purpose of this paper was to discuss the lessons learned after conducting a CBPR project and to share identified solutions. Methods : A longitudinal perinatal risk reduction intervention study was conducted with primiparous Native Hawaiian women receiving prenatal care at a CHC. The intervention incorporated home visiting, social support, and lactation management. Results : Primary lessons learned from this participatory process can be grouped into infrastructure, human resources, and recruitment. Conclusions : Sharing lessons learned can serve to expand a CHC’s involvement in research, and provide a venue for discovering innovative and viable community and practice based approaches to solving health disparity challenges.
Get Healthy Together: A Program to Improve Counseling for Childhood Obesity in Community-based WIC Clinics
Authors: Lockner Donna W. , Kibbe Debra , Marley Scott C. , Trowbridge Frederick
Published: May 2014

Counseling parents of overweight children is a sensitive issue that has been reported to be difficult for many health professionals. The Get Healthy Together (GHT) project involved an 18-month intervention that provided skills training and new tools to Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) program staff and a staff wellness program to improve the physical self-concept and functioning of WIC employees. All WIC staff from the 48 WIC clinics in New Mexico participated in this study. The design used random assignment to intervention or control condition. Staff participating in the Get Healthy Together project reported improved confidence in their ability to counsel parents of overweight children and improved counseling skills related to health behaviors. Use of the innovative tools provided visual aids that helped parents understand the health implications of their child’s weight without the parents becoming defensive. These tools are publicly available in English and Spanish on the WIC Works Sharing Gallery (website: http://www.nal.usda.gov/wicworks/Sharing_Center/gallery/healthytogether.html ).
Developing an Integrated Curriculum on the Health of Marginalized Populations: Successes, Challenges, and Next Steps
Authors: Sharma Malika
Published: May 2014

We describe the development and implementation of a novel curriculum on marginalization and health at an inner-city academic hospital in Toronto, Canada. The challenges of evaluating complex educational initiatives, particularly those centered on patient advocacy, are identified and potential solutions are discussed.
Addressing Health Care Disparities and Access to Dental Care while Improving Education: Schools of Dentistry and Federally Qualified Health Centers
Authors: Isringhausen Kim T. , VanderWielen Lynn M. , Vanderbilt Allison A.
Published: May 2014

Oral health disparities in the United States are a result of economic, educational, and social barriers faced by vulnerable and underserved individuals. The oral health care infrastructure is continuously challenged to provide access to quality care with a shortage of dental professionals and expanding oral health disparities. Federally qualified health centers (FQHC) provide oral health care in underserved communities, while schools of dentistry strive to provide students and residents with experience in underserved communities to address access to care issues and produce oral health professionals who will practice in these communities. Formal partnerships between these organizations have the potential to address oral health disparities, access to dental care and improve dental education and training. Utilizing ArcGIS (ArcMAP) software, dental schools and FQHC services sites located in the continental United States were geocoded to demonstrate geographic feasibility: on average, dental schools are within 10 miles of 34 FQHC service sites.
Metaphor and Lexicon in Sign Languages: Analysis of the Hand-Opening Articulation in LSE and BSL
Authors: Cabeza-Pereiro Carmen
Published: May 2014

I intend to study whether the gestural origins of signs allow us to explain some lexically expressed metaphorical meanings that have great potential in signed languages as organizers of lexical classes (Boyes-Braem 1981, 44). In particular, I will focus on two meaning schemas that are associated with hand-opening articulations. Using lexicographical data, I will confirm that they are present in two sign languages with no apparent connection, such as Spanish Sign Language (LSE) and British Sign Language (BSL). Obvious similarities are perceived in some of the lexemes, which are also expressed through similar articulatory means. In the case of LSE, the language from which my analysis stems, I will also have the opportunity to verify the existence of both metaphors as early as the nineteenth century since they are registered in the Fernández Villabrille dictionary (1851).
Misogyny, Maids, and Murderesses: Toward a Feminist Reappraisal of Jean Genet’s Les Bonnes
Authors: Cox Lara
Published: May 2014

This essay examines Jean Genet’s Les Bonnes ( The Maids ) from a fresh angle, applying recent feminist cultural studies criticism on the topic of murder (notably by lisa Downing) to Genet’s depiction of the figure of the murderess in this play. It identifies how certain clichés related to the figure in Western culture are potentially destabilized in Les Bonnes , and pinpoints the interrogation of the female killer as a stereotyped “masculine woman” in the original 1947 playtext of the play to argue that this sits in tension with the gender-conformist implications of its ending. From this discussion, which is fruitful for feminist inquiry, the essay continues to consider the ways in which selected mises en scène of Les Bonnes impugn a view of the murderess as an aberration of nature (as “monster” or “psycho”). This view requires deconstruction because it blocks insight into what female killers reveal about ideological scripts that seek to constrain women.