bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Avaliação funcional e histológica da tireoide de ovinos suplementados com fluoreto de sódio por um período de 150 dias
Authors: Prestes D.S. , Filappi A. , Schossler D.R. , Duarte F.A. , Dressler V.L. , Flores E.M.M. , Cecim M.
Published: July 2009

Avaliou-se o efeito da administração de fluoreto de sódio sobre a tireoide de 12 ovinos, distribuídos em dois grupos: o grupo controle (n=6) recebeu somente sal iodado (5g de NaCl/animal + 0,2ppm I/kg MS) e o grupo tratado (n=6), sal iodado (5g de NaCl/animal + 0,2ppm I/kg MS) adicionado de fluoreto de sódio (4,7mg F/kg de peso corporal), durante 150 dias. Amostras de sangue foram coletadas para análise sérica de I e F, triiodotironina (T3) e tetraiodotironina (T4) nos dias zero, 60, 90 e 150 de tratamento. Também se coletou urina, correspondente às 24 horas, para análise da excreção urinária de I e F. Após a eutanásia dos animais, a tireoide foi removida para posterior exame. Quanto ao I urinário, não foi observada diferença estatística entre os grupos controle e tratado e dentro de cada grupo, entre os tempos. As concentrações de T3 e T4 não diferiram entre os grupos e dentro de cada grupo nos diferentes tempos. Quanto à avaliação histopatológica da tireoide, não foram observadas alterações na integridade estrutural. Conclui-se que a administração crônica de fluoreto de sódio não interfere na função e na integridade histológica da glândula tireoide de ovinos com dieta não restritiva de iodo.
Coleta transcervical de embriões em ovinos da raça Dorper no semiárido do nordeste brasileiro
Authors: Gusmão A.L. , Silva J.C. , Bittencourt T.C.C. , Martins L.E.P. , Gordiano H.D. , Barbosa L.P.
Published: July 2009

Estudou-se o efeito da aplicação de misoprostol intravaginal, na dilatação cervical de ovelhas Dorper, com o objetivo de se viabilizar a coleta transcervical de embriões. Para isso, 68 fêmeas foram sincronizadas com dispositivo intravaginal de progesterona, superovuladas com FSHp, inseminadas por laparoscopia com sêmen fresco, 36 horas após a remoção do dispositivo intravaginal, e submetidas à coleta transcervical de embriões. Os animais foram distribuídos em dois tratamentos: tratamento 1 (n=10), controle, sem aplicação de misoprostol intravaginal antes da coleta de embriões, e tratamento 2 (n=58), com aplicação prévia de 200µ g de misoprostol no fundo do saco vaginal, cinco horas antes da coleta dos embriões. Não foi possível realizar a transposição cervical em nenhum dos animais do tratamento 1, o que inviabilizou as coletas dos embriões, diferentemente do tratamento 2, em que foi possível a transposição cervical em 94,8% dos animais (P<0,05). A técnica de coleta descrita foi realizada no tempo médio de 30,14±9,00 minutos, com recuperação média de 6,02±3,61 embriões/animal. Conclui-se que a técnica transcervical, com administração prévia vaginal de misoprostol, mostrou-se viável para coleta de embriões em ovelhas Dorper.
Ovário-histerectomia laparoscópica em felinos hígidos: estudo comparativo de três métodos de hemostasia
Authors: Schiochet F. , Beck C.A.C. , Silva A.P.F.F. , Contesini E.A. , Alievi M.M. , Stedile R. , Pinto V. , Yamazaki P.H. , Jurinitz D.F. , Pellizari M.
Published: July 2009

Foram avaliadas 24 gatas, hígidas, sem raça definida, distribuídas em três grupos de oito animais. Descreveu-se o acesso laparoscópico para ovariossalpingo-histerectomia (OSH) e comparou-se o uso do eletrocautério bipolar (grupo I), do clipe de titânio (grupo II) e da ligadura com fio de sutura (grupo III) para a oclusão dos vasos ovarianos e uterinos. Hemorragia e enfisema subcutâneo foram as principais complicações observadas no transoperatório e hematoma subcutâneo e deiscência de sutura, as do pós-operatório. O procedimento cirúrgico e a técnica operatória mostraram-se viáveis nos três grupos. O uso do eletrocautério bipolar apresentou vantagens na comparação com os outros métodos de hemostasia.
Monogenoidea (Dactylogyridae) em tilápias-do-nilo cultivadas sob diferentes densidades de estocagem em tanques-rede
Authors: Marengoni N.G. , Santos R.S. , Gonçalves Júnior A.C. , Gino D.M. , Zerbinatti D.C.P. , Lima F.S.
Published: July 2009

Avaliaram-se a prevalência e a intensidade de infecção por Monogenoidea em tilápias-do-nilo (Oreochromis niloticus) cultivadas sob diferentes densidades de estocagem em tanques-rede de 4m³. O delineamento experimental foi inteiramente ao acaso, com quatro tratamentos - densidades (D) de D1=250, D2=300, D3=350 e D4=400 peixes/m³, três repetições por tratamento, utilizando-se 360 peixes capturados e analisados no período de fevereiro a junho de 2003. Os parâmetros físico-químicos da água foram mensalmente monitorados. Observaram-se prevalências de 52,8; 62,5; 69,4; 83,3; 58,3% e intensidade média parasitária de 112,8; 65,7; 274,0; 97,8; 100,2 de Dactylogyrus sp. (Monogenoidea: Dactylogyridae). Não houve relação da prevalência e intensidade de infecção com a densidade de cultivo, porém foi verificado efeito quadrático (P<0,05) da intensidade parasitária em função do mês. Verificaram-se maior intensidade média de infecção (274) e elevada prevalência (83,3%) nos meses em que a temperatura e a transparência da água oscilaram abaixo dos limites recomendados para o conforto térmico e bem-estar das tilápias.
Fatores de correção para perímetro escrotal ao sobreano para tourinhos mestiços Aberdeen Angus x Nelore
Authors: Lopes J.S. , Rorato P.R.N. , Weber T. , Comin J.G. , Araújo R.O.
Published: July 2009

Obtiveram-se fatores de correção (FC) para o perímetro escrotal ao sobreano (PES) para os efeitos de grupo genético (GG), heterozigose individual (HI), peso ao sobreano (PS) e idade do animal à pesagem de sobreano (IDS), utilizando-se registros de peso corporal e medidas de perímetro escrotal obtidos de 11.662 tourinhos das raças Aberdeen Angus, Nelore e de produtos do cruzamento entre elas, criados nas regiões Sul, Sudeste e Centro-Oeste do Brasil, nascidos entre 1987 e 2001. Os coeficientes de regressão que geraram os FC foram estimados pelo método dos quadrados mínimos, adotando um modelo que incluiu os efeitos de grupo de contemporâneos ao sobreano (GC), GG, heterozigose materna (HM), HI, PS e IDS. Todos os efeitos incluídos no modelo foram significativos (P<0,01) sobre PES. A média observada e respectivo desvio-padrão para PES foi 29,90±3,55cm. Foi observado efeito polinomial de segunda ordem de PS sobre PES. Foram verificados ganhos decrescentes no PES à medida que o POS aumentou, ou seja, os maiores acréscimos foram observados em animais recém desmamados. O efeito linear de PS sobre PES foi 0,06695804±0,00345000cm/kg, e o efeito quadrático, 0,00005252±0,00000508cm/kg². Para IDS o efeito linear foi de 0,02176450±0,00038568cm/dia. Aumentos de HI e HM promoveram incremento no PES e de GG, decréscimos. Os fatores incluídos no modelo foram importantes fontes de variação que devem ser considerados no ajuste de PES para seleção de tourinhos para melhora da precocidade sexual.
Natural history and population data of fishes in caves of the Serra do Ramalho karst area, Middle São Francisco basin, northeastern Brazil
Authors: Trajano Eleonora , Secutti Sandro , Bichuette Maria Elina
Published: July 2009

During the exploration and mapping of new caves in Serra do Ramalho karst area, southern Bahia state, cavers from the Grupo Bambuí de Pesquisas Espeleológicas - GBPE (Belo Horizonte) noticed the presence of troglomorphic catfishes (species with reduced eyes and/or melanic pigmentation), which we intensively investigated with regards to their ecology and behavior since 2005. Non-troglomorphic fishes regularly found in the studied caves were included in this investigation. We present here data on the natural history of two troglobitic (exclusively subterranean troglomorphic species) fishes - Rhamdia enfurnada Bichuette & Trajano, 2005 (Heptapteridae; Gruna do Enfurnado) and Trichomycterus undescribed species (Trichomycteridae; Lapa dos Peixes and Gruna da Água Clara), and non-troglomorphic Hoplias cf. malabaricus, probably a troglophile (able to form populations both in epigean and subterranean habitats) in the Gruna do Enfurnado, and Pimelodella sp., a species with a sink population in the Lapa dos Peixes.
First report of Simuliidae and Chironomidae (Diptera) living on nymphs of Lachlania Hagen (Ephemeroptera: Oligoneuriidae) in South America
Authors: Pepinelli Mateus , Siqueira Tadeu , Salles Frederico Falcão , Shimbori Eduardo Mitio
Published: July 2009

We report cases of Simuliidae and Chironomidae living on Lachlania nymphs (Ephemeroptera). This is the first record of these associations in South America. Simulium exiguum (pupae and larvae), Simulium cuasiexiguum (larvae), Cricotopus sp. (larva) and Rheotanytarsus sp. (larva) were found associated with Lachlania nymphs. We believe that all of these associations can be classified as opportunistic (or casual) attachment.
Topographic registers of paleo-valleys on the southeastern Brazilian continental shelf
Authors: Conti Luis Américo , Furtado Valdenir Veronese
Published: July 2009

The evolution of paleo-incised-valleys in the São Paulo State region of the southeastern Brazilian continental shelf is presented in this study in relation to the post Last Glacial Maximum (LGM) sea-level rises based on the submarine topography modeled by a detailed Digital Elevation Model and evidences noted in high resolution seismic profiles. The hypothesis that has guided this study is that the set of paleo-valley characteristics (i.e. the fluvial parameters of modern coastal drainage systems, the topographical shape and dimensions of the valleys and of the subsurface channels) may indicate aspects of the relation between the influence of the fluvial and the eustatic variation regime in geomorphological-stratigraphic registers. Models described in the literature sustain the view that faster marine transgressions tend to increase erosion in estuaries, which may explain the lack of registers of paleo-drainage both in topography and the sub-surface in areas with wider shelves. On the other hand, on narrower shelves, with a higher slope angle, the transgression process can preserve, or even enhance, the incised valley registers during shoreface retreat. In the area studied, we observed that the dimensions and form of the continental shelf varies from the northern to the southern part of the area, affecting aspects of the geomorphological registers of the submerged incised valleys.
Capuchin monkey (Cebus apella) vocalizations in response to loud explosive noises
Authors: Resende Briseida Dôgo , Oliveira Dilmar A. G. , Silva Eduardo D. Ramos , Ottoni Eduardo B.
Published: July 2009

No abstract
Completion Design for a Highly Compacting Deepwater Field
Authors: Procyk Alexander D. , Jamieson David P. , Miller Joe A. , Burton Robert C. , Hodge Richard M. , Morita Nobuo
Published: July 2009

The Magnolia field, located in the deepwater region of the Gulf of Mexico, produces oil and gas from a tension leg platform (TLP) in 4,673 ft of water. The reservoirs comprise several stacked sandstone intervals within the early to mid Pleistocene with some minor production from the Miocene and Pliocene sands. A total of eight wells have been completed, with the majority of the production from the B25 sandstone. The formation-particle size is fine-grained sand to coarse silt and has relatively low K*H compared to other deepwater reservoirs. The reservoirs are significantly overpressured, highly compartmentalized, highly compacted, and have experienced significant pressure declines in excess of 8,000 psi in some cases during production.

The wells were completed with cased-hole frac packs and each completion included a permanent downhole gauge, enabling interpretation of the K*H and skin throughout the producing history of the wells to date. The perforating guns, frac fluids, and screens were extensively tested before completion. The perforation-shot size and density was carefully chosen and tested to achieve the required production. Well test results matched inflow analysis predictions. The initial skin values generally met expectations and improved during production because of a combination of well cleanup and reduced reservoir permeability from compaction. Proppant integrity has been maintained under extreme depletion (>8,000 psi) conditions. Productivity was measured using perforation tunnel permeability (Kpt) analysis. The Kpt values were analyzed over the course of production and compared to similar type completions. The Kpt benchmark analysis shows that the completions are among the best in class. Well productivity has met or is above expectations, and the longevity has exceeded expectations in most cases.
Current State of the Premium Screen Industry: Buyer Beware, Methodical Testing and Qualification Shows You Don't Always Get What You Paid For
Authors: Adams Peter R. , Davis Eric R. , Hodge Richard M. , Burton Robert C. , Ledlow Lewis , Procyk Alex D. , Crissman Seth C.
Published: July 2009

Within the sand-control-technology sector today, there are many sand-exclusion screen options available for use in completion design. Sand-control screens have steadily improved with the introduction and enhancement of metal sand-retention-media-based sand-exclusion products in the early 1990s. However, recent catastrophic sand-exclusion failures have led some operators and independent laboratories to perform additional testing and quality control checks on sand-exclusion products to ensure full life cycle field value.

This paper describes a process to select sand-exclusion products by uniquely qualifying an individual product design, which includes retention media, metallurgy, subcomponents, manufacturing process, and the final assembled product. The technical evaluation is based on a two-tier qualification process that "uniquely qualifies" products for purchase consideration. Step 1 of the process tests the sand-retention media for plugging potential and solids retention. Step 2 then tests full-joint screens manufactured using media qualified during Step 1 for burst and collapse to ensure the product meets downhole performance specifications.

Recent testing has illustrated a range of significant conclusions that the industry should be aware of:

Published screen burst and collapse ratings are not always equivalent to actual screen performance. Burst and collapse pressures are not equivalent to basepipe rating. Welds can vary by plant; therefore, screens may vary by manufacturing location. Excessive drainage layer gap leads to premature burst or collapse failure. Not adjusting screen design for changes in metallurgy may lead to premature failure. Delamination has been observed in some sintered retention media. Scaling a product design up or down without conducting a detailed engineering analysis may lead to premature failures.
Delivering Steering Success in Problematic Soft-Formation Directional Wells
Authors: Barton Steve , Card Kirk , Pierce Garrett
Published: July 2009

Development and diversification of directional-drilling tools continues, as do the applications in which they operate. As a result, there is continual demand for development and refinement of drill bits and string tools to meet the latest challenges and issues faced. One such challenge is the ability to reliably deliver consistent directional performance in very soft formation applications. Issues such as hole washout, inappropriate drilling parameters, stabilization, and hole quality can all contribute to poor directional-drilling performance.

Several commercial projects are reviewed where technical merit has justified use of rotary steerable systems (RSSs), but because of the very soft lithologies, these systems have been unable to deliver the required directional control. In each example, a separate engineered solution is introduced. These include An innovative concentric string reamer (CSR), featuring a mid reamer section that enables effective stabilization of the reamer even if the pilot borehole is of poor quality or is over gauge.A soft formation fixed-cutter drill-bit design with an engineered hydraulic configuration to avoid hole washout and extended circumferential gauge geometry.A near-bit stabilizer incorporating a full ring gauge that delivers 360° circumferential coverage, thus providing greater contact with the wellbore and higher potential for deviation.A specific bicenter design that uses a secondary component configuration on the face of the pilot to enable appropriate drilling parameters to be used for efficient directional control. The gauge geometry and profile is also tailored to suit soft formation drilling.

Global case studies document where these solutions, in combination with both push and point RSSs, have proven extremely successful. These have provided greater flexibility with regard to tool selection, well planning options, and delivering lower cost per foot in rotary-steerable projects.
Improved radar data processing algorithms for quantitative rainfall estimation in real time
Authors: Krämer S. , Verworn H.-R.
Published: July 2009

This paper describes a new methodology to process C-band radar data for direct use as rainfall input to hydrologic and hydrodynamic models and in real time control of urban drainage systems. In contrast to the adjustment of radar data with the help of rain gauges, the new approach accounts for the microphysical properties of current rainfall. In a first step radar data are corrected for attenuation. This phenomenon has been identified as the main cause for the general underestimation of radar rainfall. Systematic variation of the attenuation coefficients within predefined bounds allows robust reflectivity profiling. Secondly, event specific R–Z relations are applied to the corrected radar reflectivity data in order to generate quantitative reliable radar rainfall estimates. The results of the methodology are validated by a network of 37 rain gauges located in the Emscher and Lippe river basins. Finally, the relevance of the correction methodology for radar rainfall forecasts is demonstrated. It has become clearly obvious, that the new methodology significantly improves the radar rainfall estimation and rainfall forecasts. The algorithms are applicable in real time.
Ferric coagulant recovered from coagulation sludge and its recycle in chemically enhanced primary treatment
Authors: Xu G. R. , Yan Z. C. , Wang N. , Li G. B.
Published: July 2009

An investigation was conducted to study the feasibility of ferric coagulant recovery from chemical sludge and its recycle in chemically enhanced primary treatment (CEPT) to make the process more cost-effective, as well as reduce sludge volume. The optimum conditions and efficiency of the acidification for ferric coagulant recovery from coagulation sludge were investigated. Experimental results showed that the recovered coagulants can be used in CEPT and the pollutants removal efficiency is similar to that of fresh coagulant, and for some aspects the effect of recovered coagulants is better than that of fresh ones, such as turbidity removal. Although some substances will be enriched during recycle, they have little effect on treated wastewater quality. Acidification condition also had significant influence on reduction of sludge volume. The efficiency of coagulant recovery had a linear relationship with sludge reduction. Experiments verify that it would be a sustainable and cost-effective way to recover ferric coagulant from coagulation sludge in water treatment and chemical wastewater treatment, and then recycle it to CEPT, as well as reduce sludge volume.
Bacterial pollution of the riverine surface microlayer and subsurface water
Authors: Skórczewski Piotr , Mudryk Zbigniew
Published: July 2009

The density and distribution of bacteria indicative of pollution in the surface microlayer and subsurface water of the River Słupia were estimated. The number of heterotrophic bacteria, total coliforms, fecal coliforms and fecal streptococci were higher in the surface microlayer than in the underlying water. The average bacterial enrichment factor (EF) of the parameters studied in the bacterioneuston was 1.7 to 1.8 times higher than in bacterioplankton. During the annual study cycle, bacterial pollution indicators inhabiting the surface microlayer and subsurface water showed considerable monthly changes.
Comparison of Angiotensin I-Converting Enzyme Inhibitor Activities of Pre-Fermented Douchi (a Chinese Traditional Fermented Soybean Food) Started with Various Cultures
Authors: Li Feng-Juan , Yin Li-Jun , Cheng Yong-Qiang , Yamaki Kohji , Fan Jun-Feng , Li Li-Te
Published: July 2009

Pre-fermented douchi, also called douchi qu, is a salt-free semi-product of a Chinese traditional fermented soybean food (douchi), which is classified into three types, that is, Aspergillus-type, Mucor-type and Bacteria-type. In this work, angiotensin I-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitor activities of douchi qu started by different types of cultures were compared. It was found that douchi qu fermented with Aspergillus oryzae, Mucor wutungkiao, Bacillus subtilis natto and Bacillus subtilis B1 showed significantly different (p < 0.05) ACE inhibitor activities with decreasing IC50 values of 0.4991, 0.3535, 0.2294 and 0.0901 mg/mL, respectively. Twenty-five fractions were separated by gel filtration chromatography and the strongest ACE inhibitor activity was observed in a fraction with high contents of glycine, lysine and arginine from B. subtilis B1 fermented sample. Results indicated that the type of starter cultures affected significantly the production of ACE inhibitors in douchi qu, and that B. subtilis B1 could be potential candidate as an inoculant to prepare fermented soybeans with strong ACE inhibitor activity in functional food industry.
Genetic Tests and Inter-Temporal Screening in Competitive Insurance Markets
Authors: Emons Winand
Published: July 2009

We consider successive generations of non-altruistic individuals carrying either a good or bad gene. Daughters are more likely to inherit their mother's gene. Competitive insurers can perform a genetic test revealing an agent's gene. They can condition their quotes on the agent's or on her ancestors' genetic status. In equilibrium, generation one is bribed to take the test with an unconditional premium. The insurer uses this information to profitably screen a finite number of generations of their offspring. The offspring of good-gene carriers subsidize the tested generation.
Children's Educational Processes in Contemporary Cities: Preliminary Findings and Insights from a Case Study Developed in Lisbon
Authors: Gomes Elisabete Xavier
Published: July 2009

This article discusses preliminary findings of the author's doctoral research on children's educating networks in contemporary cities. The research problem is introduced in the theoretical framework composed by issues of formal, non-formal and informal education, contemporary children's studies, and contributions from the debate around the projects and characteristics of education in the city. The research design and methodology will be briefly presented — a case study, within the guidelines of the interpretative paradigm and with a participatory approach. This aims to frame the specific dimensions, techniques and instruments that constitute the main focus of the article. In this context, the preliminary findings focus on children's perspectives of their own educational processes and contexts taking place inside and outside school in the city of Lisbon. In conclusion, the article tries to establish some links between this particular case study and some contemporary educational policy options.
Developing Craft Knowledge in Teaching at University: How Do Beginning Teachers Learn to Teach?
Authors: Carolina Guzmán V.
Published: July 2009

This study addresses how university teaching as a craft is learnt and developed. More specifically, the analysis examines how beginning university teachers begin to develop and reinforce teaching practices that encourage student learning. A qualitative research approach has been used, looking at two beginning university teachers from different disciplines. Data was gathered at the University of Barcelona during one academic year and the content is being analysed through an inductive and comparative method. Preliminary conclusions and some reflections related to teaching practices are also put forward.
Cerebellar Loss and Brain-Stem Atrophy Associated with Neonatal Alloimmune Thrombocytopenia in a Discordant Twin
Authors: Mohila Carrie A. , Kubicka Zuzanna J. , Ornvold Kim T. , Harris Brent T.
Published: July 2009

Neonatal alloimmune thrombocytopenia (NAIT) is due to an immune-mediated maternal-fetal platelet antigen incompatibility. Central nervous system abnormalities have been reported in infants with NAIT and include intracranial hemorrhage, ventriculomegaly, porencephalic cysts, neuronal migrational disorders, and, rarely, cerebellar lesions. We present the clinical and neuropathological findings from a case of a 3-day-old diamniotic/dichorionic female twin with known bilateral ventriculomegaly born prematurely at 33–1/7 weeks in gestational age. The pregnancy was further complicated by discordant intrauterine growth, intraventricular hemorrhage in the co-twin, and NAIT. At birth, the infant was noted to have diffuse body ecchymoses and petechiae and arthrogryposis. She subsequently developed multisystem organ failure and disseminated intravascular coagulopathy and died on the 3rd day of life. Neuropathological findings at autopsy included a posterior fossa cyst with no gross anatomic evidence of a cerebellum, atrophic pons and medulla with prominent pyramidal tracts and absent olivary nuclei, thinned corpus callosum, and symmetrical dilation of bilateral lateral ventricles. Microscopic examination confirmed the gross findings and revealed no histological evidence of cerebellar tissue, absence of superior and inferior cerebellar peduncles, and acute and chronic germinal matrix hemorrhages. Immunohistochemical studies revealed a focus of reactive gliosis at the base of the posterior fossa cyst with no evidence of cerebellar Purkinje or granule cells. To our knowledge, this is the 1st report with well-characterized neuropathological examination detailing complete cerebellar loss and brain-stem atrophy in a neonate with NAIT.
Sensing Mercury for Biomedical and Environmental Monitoring
Authors: Selid Paul  D. , Xu Hanying , Collins E. Michael , Striped Face-Collins Marla , Zhao Julia Xiaojun
Published: July 2009

Mercury is a very toxic element that is widely spread in the atmosphere, lithosphere, and surface water. Concentrated mercury poses serious problems to human health, as bioaccumulation of mercury within the brain and kidneys ultimately leads to neurological diseases. To control mercury pollution and reduce mercury damage to human health, sensitive determination of mercury is important. This article summarizes some current sensors for the determination of both abiotic and biotic mercury. A wide array of sensors for monitoring mercury is described, including biosensors and chemical sensors, while piezoelectric and microcantilever sensors are also described. Additionally, newly developed nanomaterials offer great potential for fabricating novel mercury sensors. Some of the functional fluorescent nanosensors for the determination of mercury are covered. Afterwards, the in vivo determination of mercury and the characterization of different forms of mercury are discussed. Finally, the future direction for mercury detection is outlined, suggesting that nanomaterials may provide revolutionary tools in biomedical and environmental monitoring of mercury.
A MEMS-Based Flow Rate and Flow Direction Sensing Platform with Integrated Temperature Compensation Scheme
Authors: Ma Rong-Hua , Wang Dung-An , Hsueh Tzu-Han , Lee Chia-Yen
Published: July 2009

This study develops a MEMS-based low-cost sensing platform for sensing gas flow rate and flow direction comprising four silicon nitride cantilever beams arranged in a cross-form configuration, a circular hot-wire flow meter suspended on a silicon nitride membrane, and an integrated resistive temperature detector (RTD). In the proposed device, the flow rate is inversely derived from the change in the resistance signal of the flow meter when exposed to the sensed air stream. To compensate for the effects of the ambient temperature on the accuracy of the flow rate measurements, the output signal from the flow meter is compensated using the resistance signal generated by the RTD. As air travels over the surface of the cross-form cantilever structure, the upstream cantilevers are deflected in the downward direction, while the downstream cantilevers are deflected in the upward direction. The deflection of the cantilever beams causes a corresponding change in the resistive signals of the piezoresistors patterned on their upper surfaces. The amount by which each beam deflects depends on both the flow rate and the orientation of the beam relative to the direction of the gas flow. Thus, following an appropriate compensation by the temperature-corrected flow rate, the gas flow direction can be determined through a suitable manipulation of the output signals of the four piezoresistors. The experimental results have confirmed that the resulting variation in the output signals of the integrated sensors can be used to determine not only the ambient temperature and the velocity of the air flow, but also its direction relative to the sensor with an accuracy of ± 7.5o error.
Towards the Development of an M-Learning System: A New Stage to Enhance Higher Education
Authors: Abou El-Seoud Samir , El-Sofany Hosam Farouk
Published: July 2009

With the availability of high bandwidth wireless channels such as 3G-telecommunication infrastructure and wireless LAN, mobile learning (M-learning) is becoming more feasible now. M-learning can be considered as an intersection of online learning and mobile computing. Through wireless devices (such as mobile telephones, Personal Digital Assistants - PDAs, tablet PC, and laptops) and wireless applications, M-learning supports an integrated access to Web content and services in education anytime and anywhere. This paper describes the analysis, design, architecture, and experimental development of "Wireless Course Management System (WCMS)", that provides a wireless access to course information content. The system allows the use of the wireless Web as a medium to administer, and deliver course content, to support wireless course management, tests and student wireless communications.
The Feasibility of E-Ink Readers in Distance Learning: A Field Study
Authors: Janssens Guy , Martin Harry
Published: July 2009

â?? E-book readers based on E-ink mimic paper very closely and are an emerging technology. Despite the slow acceptance of this novel technology, The Open University of the Netherlands (OU) is preparing to offer study material for this new medium. This paper reports the first experiences with the introduction of the new technology, both from a content producerâ??s perspective as well as from a consumerâ??s viewpoint. As it turned out, a significant amount of effort had to be spent on reformatting the already available A4 sized standard study material to accommodate the small 6â??â?? screen sizes of todayâ??s E-ink readers. Our experience suggests that the classic A4 study material production process has to be replaced by a media-agnostic process, allowing for a flexible formatting and sizing of the content at the end of the process. In addition, since much of the content originates from external publishers, their â??reformatting
MeCoCo: A Context-Aware System for Mediated Communications
Authors: George Sebastien , Lekira Aina Sylviane
Published: July 2009

In this paper, we explore the potential of contextual communications with mobile technologies. Context-aware applications allow information or services delivery relevant to users at a given time. One of the two objectives of our work is to propose a generic usersâ?? context model for mediated communications. This model is based on six dimensions: Userâ??s profile, Activity, Device, Environment, Location and Time. In addition, to illustrate the utility and to validate the proposed approach, we design a prototype named MeCoCo (Mediated Contextual Communications) with a particular interface favoring the search of interesting contacts and messages. The MeCoCo prototype can highlight a dimension of contextual information compared to the others.
NKG2D-Dependent IL-17 Production by Human T Cells in Response to an Intracellular Pathogen
Authors: Paidipally Padmaja , Periasamy Sivakumar , Barnes Peter F. , Dhiman Rohan , Indramohan Mohanalaxmi , Griffith David E. , Cosman David , Vankayalapati Ramakrishna
Published: July 2009

We studied the factors that control IL-17 production in human Mycobacterium tuberculosis infection. CD4+ cells from healthy tuberculin reactors produced IL-17 in response to autologous M. tuberculosis-stimulated monocytes, and most IL-17+ cells were Ag experienced, CD4+CD62L−. IL-17 production by CD4+ cells was inhibited by anti-IL-23, but not by Abs to IL-1, IL-6, or TGF-β. Anti-NKG2D reduced IL-17 production and the frequency of CD4+CD62− IL-17+ cells, suggesting that NKG2D stimulates IL-17 production. CD4+NKG2D+ cells did not produce IL-17. Monocytes and alveolar macrophages from healthy donors produced IL-23 in response to M. tuberculosis. Addition of CD4+ cells markedly enhanced IL-23 production by M. tuberculosis-stimulated monocytes, and this was inhibited by anti-NKG2D and by Abs to UL-16 binding protein (ULB)1, a ligand for NKG2D on APCs. We conclude that binding of NKG2D to UL-16 binding protein (ULB)1 contributes to IL-23-dependent IL-17 production by CD4+ cells in human M. tuberculosis infection.
IL-13 Receptor α2 Regulates the Immune and Functional Response to Nippostrongylus brasiliensis Infection
Authors: Morimoto Motoko , Zhao Aiping , Sun Rex , Stiltz Jennifer , Madden Kathleen B. , Mentink-Kane Margaret , Ramalingam Thirumalai , Wynn Thomas A. , Urban Joseph F. , Shea-Donohue Terez
Published: July 2009

IL-13 has a prominent role in host defense against the gastrointestinal nematode Nippostrongylus brasiliensis; however, the role of IL-13Rα2 in the immune and functional response to enteric infection is not known. In the current study, we investigated changes in smooth muscle and epithelial cell function as well as alterations in gene expression of IL-13 and IL-4 and their receptors using laser-capture microdissection of specific cell types in the small intestine of N. brasiliensis-infected mice. An infection-induced up-regulation of IL-13Rα2 gene expression was confined to smooth muscle and was dependent on STAT6 and IL-13, but not on IL-4. In contrast, expression of IL-13Rα1 was reduced, indicating that changes in IL-13α2 expression serve to limit the biological effects of IL-13. The increased availability of IL-13 in IL-13Rα2−/− mice resulted in marked changes in constitutive epithelial and smooth muscle function. In addition, maximal changes in smooth muscle hypercontractility and epithelial cell resistance peaked earlier after infection in IL-13Rα2−/− compared with wild-type mice. This did not coincide with an earlier Th2 immune response as expression of IL-4 and IL-13 was attenuated in IL-13Rα2−/− mice and worm expulsion was similar to that of wild-type mice. These data show that IL-13Rα2 plays an important role in nematode infection by limiting the availability of IL-13 during infection, thereby regulating both the immune and biological effects of IL-13.
Internet Resources in Medical Genetics
Authors: Waggoner Darrel J. , Pagon Roberta A.
Published: July 2009

This unit presents an overview of the most commonly used Web‐based information resources for clinicians seeking to apply molecular or array‐based genetic testing to patient care, obtain information on metabolic disease testing, learn more about newborn screening, or understand the molecular basis of inherited diseases, as well as for consumers seeking advocacy or scientific/management information, and also for genetics professional societies. Curr. Protoc. Hum. Genet. 62:9.12.1‐9.12.8. © 2009 by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Bone Marrow Engraftment Studies
Authors: Vnencak‐Jones Cindy L.
Published: July 2009

Bone marrow engraftment studies are used to evaluate the level of donor versus recipient cells in post‐transplant peripheral blood or bone marrow specimens. Unique DNA fingerprints identified from the recipient and the donor are used to determine the proportion of each contained within the total DNA extracted from the post‐transplant specimen. These percentages correspond to relative amounts of donor and recipient cells in the specimen. Engraftment studies are sequentially performed on transplant patients to monitor closely the levels of donor and recipient cells so that appropriate therapeutic intervention can proceed if and when needed. This unit describes the use of fluorescent PCR for amplification of genomic short tandem repeats (STR). STR analysis is now considered the gold standard for engraftment studies and provides a quick and accurate assessment of the contribution of both donor and/or recipient hematopoietic cells in post‐transplantation specimens. Curr. Protoc. Hum. Genet. 62:9.17.1‐9.17.34. © 2009 by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Improved Protocols for the Illumina Genome Analyzer Sequencing System
Authors: Quail Michael A. , Swerdlow Harold , Turner Daniel J.
Published: July 2009

In this unit, we describe a set of improvements we have made to the standard Illumina Genome Analyzer protocols to make the sequencing process more reliable in a high‐throughput environment, reduce amplification bias, narrow the distribution of insert sizes, and reliably obtain high yields of data. Curr. Protoc. Hum. Genet. 62:18.2.1‐18.2.27. © 2009 by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Analysis of Oxidative Damage by Gene‐Specific Quantitative PCR
Authors: Kovalenko Olga A. , Santos Janine H.
Published: July 2009

This unit describes the gene‐specific quantitative PCR‐based (QPCR) assay, which is used to measure DNA integrity of both nuclear and mitochondrial genomes based on amplification of long DNA targets. QPCR can be used to quantify the formation of DNA damage and the kinetics of DNA repair by following restoration of amplification of the target DNA over time after removal of the damaging agent. A detailed protocol to set up QPCR in any laboratory, highlighting critical parameters for successful establishment of the assay and interpretation of the results, is provided here. Advantages (e.g., the use of nanogram amounts of DNA) and limitations (e.g., the inability to define the specific type of lesion present on the DNA) of using QPCR to assay DNA damage in human cells are also described. Curr. Protoc. Hum. Genet. 62:19.1.1‐19.1.13. © 2009 by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
A new fast Newton‐type adaptive filtering algorithm for stereophonic acoustic echo cancellation (SAEC)
Authors: Djendi Mohamed , Guessoum Abderrezak
Published: July 2009

This paper addresses the problem of acoustic echo cancellation. We propose a new version of the fast Newton transversal filter algorithm for stereophonic acoustic echo cancellation applications. This algorithm can be viewed as an efficient implementation of the extended two‐channel fast transversal filter algorithm. Moreover, it fits naturally within the frame of the fast version of the recursive least‐squares (RLS) algorithm, applied to the two‐channel case. To stabilize the proposed two‐channel algorithm, we have adapted and then applied a new numerical stabilization technique that has been proposed recently. The computational complexity of the proposed two‐channel algorithm is less than half the complexity of the fastest two‐channel RLS versions and very close to that of the two‐channel normalized least mean squares algorithm when its predicting part length is chosen to be small. Simulation results and comparisons in term of complexities, convergence speed and tracking with the two‐channel algorithms are presented. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Regioselective Palladium(0)‐Catalyzed Cross‐Coupling Reactions and Metal‐Halide Exchange Reactions of Tetrabromothiophene: Optimization, Scope and Limitations
Authors: Tùng Đǎng Thanh , Tuân Đǎng Thanh , Rasool Nasir , Villinger Alexander , Reinke Helmut , Fischer Christine , Langer Peter
Published: July 2009

The Suzuki reaction of tetrabromothiophene with arylboronic acids provides a regioselective approach to various 5‐aryl‐2,3,4‐tribromothiophenes, symmetrical 2,5‐diaryl‐3,4‐dibromothiophenes, and tetraarylthiophenes. Unsymmetrical 2,5‐diaryl‐3,4‐dibromothiophenes are prepared by Suzuki reaction of 5‐aryl‐2,3,4‐tribromothiophenes. Tetraarylthiophenes containing two different types of aryl groups are obtained by Suzuki reactions of 2,5‐diaryl‐3,4‐dibromothiophenes. During the optimization of the conditions of each individual reaction, the solvent, the catalyst and the temperature play an important role. In several cases, classical conditions [use of tetrakis(triphenylphosphane)palladium(0), Pd(PPh3)4, as the catalyst] gave excellent yields. The yields of those transformations which failed or proceeded sluggishly could be significantly improved by application of a new biarylmonophosphine ligand developed by Buchwald and co‐workers. Regioselective metal‐halide exchange reactions of tetrabromothiophene provide a convenient approach to various 2,5‐disubstituted 3,4‐dibromothiophenes. 5‐Alkyl‐2‐trimethylsilyl‐3,4‐dibromothiophenes could be prepared in one pot by sequential addition of trimethylchlorosilane and alkyl bromides. The reaction of tetrabromothiophene with methyl chloroformate and subsequent Suzuki reactions afforded 3,4‐diaryl‐2,5‐bis(methoxycarbonyl)thiophenes.
Pricing credit derivatives under stochastic recovery in a hybrid model
Authors: Höcht Stephan , Zagst Rudi
Published: July 2009

In this article, a framework for the joint modelling of default and recovery risk is presented. The model accounts for typical characteristics known from empirical studies, e.g. negative correlation between recovery‐rate process and default intensity, as well as between default intensity and state of the economy, and a positive dependence of recovery rates on the economic environment. Within this framework analytically tractable pricing formulas for credit derivatives are derived. The stochastic model for the recovery process allows for the pricing of credit derivatives with payoffs that are directly linked to the recovery rate at default, e.g. recovery locks. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A cataluminescence gas sensor for ammonium sulfide based on Fe3O4–carbon nanotubes composite
Authors: Xu Shuxia , Tang Li , Bi Chen , Wang Xianxiang , Lv Yi
Published: July 2009

In the present work, Fe3O4–carbon nanotubes (CNTs) composite was explored as a sensing material candidate for ammonium sulfide. Intense chemiluminescence emission can be observed during the catalytic oxidation of ammonium sulfide on the surface of Fe3O4–CNTs composite. Based on this phenomenon, a selective and sensitive gas sensor for the determination of ammonium sulfide was demonstrated. Under the optimized conditions, the linear range of cataluminescence intensity vs concentration of ammonium sulfide gas was 1.4–115 µg mL−1 (R = 0.998) with a limit of detection (S/N = 3) of 0.05 µg mL−1. The relative standard deviation (n = 5) for 14.3 µg mL−1 ammonium sulfide was 1.9%. There was no response to common foreign substances, such as sulfur dioxide, toluene, aether, ethanol, acetone, hydrogen sulfide, carbon bisulfide, benzene and ammonia. The proposed sensor was successfully applied for the determination of ammonium sulfide in artificial air samples. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The effects of harassment severity and organizational behavior on damage awards in a hostile work environment sexual harassment case
Authors: Cass Stacie A. , Levett Lora M. , Kovera Margaret Bull
Published: July 2009

Community members reporting for jury duty (N = 128) read a sexual harassment trial summary in which harassment severity and the organization's sexual harassment policy and response were manipulated. Jurors who read the severe harassment scenario were more likely to agree that the plaintiff had suffered and should be compensated for her suffering and that the organization should be punished than were jurors who read the mild harassment scenario. When the organization had and enforced a sexual harassment policy, jurors believed that the plaintiff had suffered little and the organization should not be punished compared with conditions in which the organization did not have an enforced sexual harassment policy. Harassment severity influenced jurors' compensatory awards, and organizational behavior influenced jurors' punitive awards. These results have implications for plaintiffs, who must decide whether to claim specific or garden‐variety damages; organizations, which could create or modify sexual harassment policy to limit damages; and trial lawyers, who could tailor arguments to maximize or minimize awards. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
SmartMetals: a new method for metal identification based on fuzzy logic
Authors: Pocajt Viktor , Sevarac Zoran , Kovacevic Ana
Published: July 2009

This paper presents a method of searching, identifying and cross‐referencing metal alloys based on their chemical composition and/or mechanical properties, typically obtained by analysis and tests. The method uses a general pattern similar to the approach of a human expert, and relies on a classification of metals based on metallurgical expertise and fuzzy logic for identifying metals and comparing their chemical and mechanical properties. The algorithm has been tested and deployed in real applications for fast metal identification and finding of unknown equivalents, by the leading companies in the field. The same principles can also be used in other domains for similar problems, such as organic and inorganic materials identification and generic drugs comparison. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Simulation of fluid–structure interaction with the interface artificial compressibility method
Authors: Degroote Joris , Swillens Abigail , Bruggeman Peter , Haelterman Robby , Segers Patrick , Vierendeels Jan
Published: July 2009

Partitioned fluid–structure interaction simulations of the arterial system are difficult due to the incompressibility of the fluid and the shape of the domain. The interface artificial compressibility (IAC) method mitigates the incompressibility constraint by adding a source term to the continuity equation in the fluid domain adjacent to the fluid–structure interface. This source term imitates the effect of the structure's displacement as a result of the fluid pressure and disappears when the coupling iterations have converged. The IAC method requires a small modification of the flow solver but not of the black‐box structural solver and it outperforms a partitioned quasi‐Newton coupling of the two black‐box solvers in a simulation of a carotid bifurcation. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
An adaptive multi‐hop forward error correction protection scheme for video streaming over wireless mesh networks
Authors: Tsai Ming‐Fong , Shieh Ce‐Kuen , Hwang Wen‐Shyang , Deng Der‐Jiunn
Published: July 2009

Traditional forward error correction (FEC) mechanisms can be divided into end‐to‐end FEC protection schemes and hop‐by‐hop FEC protection schemes. The end‐to‐end FEC protection schemes over‐allocate FEC redundancy to each link and may induce a self‐congestion effect in a link. The hop‐by‐hop FEC protection scheme incurs a long end‐to‐end delay that harms the video performance at the video receiver. Accordingly, the Adaptive Multi‐Hop FEC (AM‐FEC) protection scheme is proposed in this paper to improve the quality of video streaming data over Wireless Mesh Networks by means of simultaneously minimizing the end‐to‐end delay and reducing the FEC computational cost. The AM‐FEC protection scheme uses a heuristic algorithm to minimize the number of FEC‐encoded segments between the video sender and receiver. Moreover, according to the decodable frame rate the AM‐FEC protection scheme can dynamically adjust FEC redundancy on each link to outperform end‐to‐end FEC protection schemes and hop‐by‐hop FEC protection schemes. In the experiments, the AM‐FEC protection scheme achieves timely loss recovery for delay‐sensitive video streaming and outperforms traditional FEC protection schemes in terms of video peak signal‐to‐noise ratio. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.