bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Avaliação de perfis atmosféricos de rádio ocultação GPS do satélite CHAMP sobre a América do Sul
Authors: Holzschuh Marcelo Leandro , Sapucci Luiz Fernando , Monico João Francisco Galera
Published: September 2010

Com o advento dos satélites artificiais Global Positioning System (GPS) em conjunto com os satélites Low Earth Orbiting (LEO), surge a Rádio Ocultação GPS (RO GPS), técnica que permite obter remotamente perfis atmosféricos com boas perspectivas para aplicações em modelagem numérica de tempo. O satélite LEO denominado Challenging Minisatellite Payload of Geophysical Research and Application (CHAMP), embora tenha sido lançado com o objetivo principal voltado para estudos geofísicos, tem permitido também acessar o potencial da RO GPS. Nesse trabalho objetiva-se avaliar a qualidade dos perfis atmosféricos obtidos com o satélite CHAMP sobre a América do Sul, comparando-os com os perfis provenientes de radiossondagens e da reanálise regional de 5 anos do CPTEC/INPE. Os resultados da comparação entre os perfis obtidos por RO GPS e por radiossondas, apontam uma diferença média na temperatura abaixo de 1K e um desvio padrão de até 3K, distribuídos na camada entre 9 e 18 km. Os resultados da comparação entre os perfis de temperatura advindos de RO GPS e da reanálise do CPTEC entre 9 e 13 km, mostram que o viés é praticamente nulo e o desvio padrão próximo a 1K.
Hydrometeor and latent heat profiles of tropical cyclones Conson, Ivan and Catarina using PR/TRMM data
Authors: Rosa Marcelo Barbio , Pereira Filho Augusto , Satyamurty Prakki
Published: September 2010

ABSTRACT Microphysical and thermodynamical features of two tropical systems, namely Hurricane Ivan and Typhoon Conson, and one sub-tropical, Catarina, have been analyzed based on space-born radar PR measurements available on the TRMM satellite. The procedure to classify the reflectivity profiles followed the Heymsfield et al (2000) and Steiner et al (1995) methodologies. The water and ice content have been calculated using a relationship obtained with data of the surface SPOL radar and PR in Rondonia State in Brazil. The diabatic heating rate due to latent heat release has been estimated using the methodology developed by Tao et al (1990). A more detailed analysis has been performed for Hurricane Catarina, the first of its kind in South Atlantic. High water content mean value has been found in Conson and Ivan at low levels and close to their centers. Results indicate that hurricane Catarina was shallower than the other two systems, with less water and the water was concentrated closer to its center. The mean ice content in Catarina was about 0.05 g kg-1 while in Conson it was 0.06 g kg-1 and in Ivan 0.08 g kg-1. Conson and Ivan had water content up to 0.3 g kg-1 above the 0ºC layer, while Catarina had less than 0.15 g kg-1. The latent heat released by Catarina showed to be very similar to the other two systems, except in the regions closer to the center.
Variações do ciclo anual da temperatura da superfície do mar no pacífico tropical
Authors: Gerólamo Renato Orrú Pedroso , Kayano Mary Toshie
Published: September 2010

Variações do ciclo anual da Temperatura da Superfície do Mar (TSM) do Pacífico Tropical entre 20ºN e 20ºS, para o período de 1854 a 2006, foram estudadas usando análises de ondaletas. O estudo mostrou que o ciclo anual, considerando-se a variância para em torno de 1 ano, de TSM possui variabilidade interanual e interdecenal. Existem indicações de que a maior parte das variações interanuais no ciclo anual de TSM das áreas do hemisfério Norte (HN) e do hemisfério Sul (HS), está relacionada ao ciclo do El Niño-Oscilação Sul (ENOS). A maioria dos picos da Média por Escalas da Potência localizada da ondaleta (MEPO) para a escala entre 0,7 e 1,2 anos, para as áreas de ambos os hemisférios, coincide com extremos do ENOS. Os Espectros da Potência Global (EPGs) mostraram variância máxima do ciclo anual de TSM entre 120ºE e 140ºE na faixa do HN (entre equador e 20ºN), e variância crescente da linha da data para leste com o máximo entre 100ºW e 80ºW na faixa do HS (entre equador e 20ºS). Portanto, o ciclo anual de TSM apresenta variações entre os HN e HS com a máxima variância localizando-se no hemisfério leste para o HN e no hemisfério oeste para o HS.
Do indesejável ao inevitável: a experiência vivida do estigma de envelhecer na contemporaneidade
Authors: Moreira Virgínia , Nogueira Fernanda Nícia Nunes
Published: September 2010

Este artigo discute o processo de envelhecimento na contemporaneidade ocidental a partir de uma pesquisa fenomenológica realizada com sujeitos colaboradores que se encontram na fase da maturidade. Os resultados apontam para a compreensão do envelhecimento como uma experiência ambígua e também estigmatizada, na medida em que se traduz na identificação com um estereótipo negativo e com a recusa de ser portador de uma marca que inferioriza ou exclui: ser velho. Envelhecer num cenário marcado pelo culto à juventude e à beleza, que impõe um padrão estético como ideal a ser conquistado por todos, transforma essa experiência, que é um fenômeno biológico “inevitável”, em um fenômeno cultural da ordem do “indesejável”.
Novas perspectivas em educação alimentar e nutricional
Authors: Oliveira Sabrina Ionata de , Oliveira Kathleen Sousa
Published: September 2010

A crescente ênfase na temática de educação alimentar e nutricional, decorrida da estratégia Fome Zero e da Política Nacional de Alimentação e Nutrição, bem como da mudança no perfil de morbi-mortalidade da população, tornou fundamental a reflexão sobre sua configuração enquanto ação governamental. Na estratégia Fome Zero, a educação alimentar e nutricional é prevista como ação estruturante, de tal sorte que a mesma configurou-se institucionalmente no Ministério do Desenvolvimento Social e Combate à Fome (MDS) tendo como perspectiva a promoção da segurança alimentar e nutricional. Dessa forma, a Coordenação responsável pelo desenvolvimento de ações educativas nesse Ministério promoveu duas oportunidades de reflexão: uma interna, que visava estabelecer o marco institucional da educação alimentar e nutricional no MDS, e a outra no Conselho Nacional de Segurança Alimentar, com o objetivo de subsidiar o grupo de trabalho de alimentação adequada e saudável. Dessas discussões surgiram importantes recomendações e estratégias como base para o desenvolvimento de ações educativas em alimentação e nutrição tanto para o governo como para a sociedade civil. Dentre essas recomendações, destacamos a importância de que as ações educativas sejam desenvolvidas no sentido de promover a autonomia dos indivíduos, a interdisciplinaridade e a transdisciplinaridade, respeitando as culturas alimentares e valorizando a história alimentar e a diversidade regional, ao mesmo tempo em que reconheçam os saberes populares e fomentem a biodiversidade local.
Níveis de cálcio no desempenho de machos reprodutores de corte com e sem crista
Authors: Rosa Alexandre Pires , Pilecco Márcio , Lucca Walter , Uttpatel Rodrigo
Published: September 2010

O objetivo deste experimento foi avaliar o efeito do nível de cálcio na dieta sobre o peso corporal e as variáveis reprodutivas (volume de sêmen, número de células espermáticas e fertilidade) em reprodutores de corte machos com ou sem crista. Foram utilizados 32 machos Cobb 500, 50% com crista inteira e 50% sem crista. O delineamento experimental utilizado foi o inteiramente casualizado, com esquema fatorial 2x2, duas condições de crista (com e sem) e dois níveis de cálcio (0,90 e 1,35%). O sêmen foi coletado pelo método americano, e o número de células espermáticas foi determinado em câmara de Neubauer. Na 42ª, na 43ª e na 44ª semana de idade dos machos, 48 fêmeas para cada tratamento foram inseminadas artificialmente. As inseminações foram realizadas duas vezes por semana, com sêmen fresco, na dose de 0,05mL. Depois de 21 dias de incubação, os ovos não eclodidos foram quebrados e examinados macroscopicamente para análise da fertilidade. Os machos alimentados com 0,90 e 1,35% de cálcio nas dietas tiveram pesos similares. Além disso, na 31ª semana de idade, machos com crista que receberam dietas com 0,90% de cálcio apresentaram maior número de células espermáticas (3,00x10(6) 0,90% com crista contra 9,46x10(5) 0,90% sem crista). O nível de cálcio de 0,90% foi suficiente para promover um bom desempenho reprodutivo em reprodutores de corte machos. Machos com crista inteira tiveram melhor fertilidade que os demais machos sem crista.
Preparação e caracterização de membranas assimétricas de poli (fluoreto de vinilideno) suportadas em poliéster - I: efeito do tratamento térmico nas propriedades das membranas
Authors: Thürmer Mônica B. , Poletto Patrícia , Marcolin Marcos , Ferreira Daiane G. , Zeni Mara
Published: September 2010

O poli(fluoreto de vinilideno) (PVDF) é um polímero semicristalino contendo uma fase amorfa e uma cristalina. Essa característica é importante para o preparo de membranas assimétricas, pois a fase cristalina tem grande influência na formação da estrutura da membrana e a fase amorfa na porosidade. Membranas de PVDF foram preparadas pelo processo de inversão de fases e avaliadas quanto à permeabilidade e morfologia, bem como o efeito do tratamento térmico. Foram comparadas as seguintes membranas: membrana sem tratamento térmico, membrana com tratamento térmico e membrana comercial. Ensaios de resistência química, fluxo permeado de água a várias pressões, difusão de íons, Microscopia Eletrônica de Varredura (MEV), Calorimetria Exploratória Diferencial (DSC) e Análise Termogravimétrica (TGA) foram realizados para verificar o comportamento das membranas.
Síntese e caracterização do copolímero poli(3-hidroxibutirato-co-ε-caprolactona) a partir de poli (3-hidroxibutirato) e poli(ε-caprolactona)
Authors: Roa Juan P. B. , Mano Valdir , Faustino Patrícia B. , Felix Eduardo B. , Silva Maria Elisa S. Ribeiro e , Souza Filho José D.
Published: September 2010

O copolímero poli(3-hidroxibutirato-co-ε-caprolactona) foi sintetizado por transesterificação, a partir dos homopolímeros PHB e PCL, usando acetilacetonato de zircônio(IV), como catalisador, nas concentrações de 20, 50 e 80% de PHB em massa. Os copolímeros foram caracterizados por GPC, métodos espectroscópicos (RMN-¹H, RMN-13C e IV-FT) e métodos térmicos (TG e DSC). A rota de síntese utilizada mostrou-se eficaz na síntese dos copolímeros P(HB-co-CL), os quais mostraram diminuição das cadeias poliméricas, apresentando Mw inferior a 24.000Daltons. Todos os copolímeros obtidos são termicamente mais estáveis que o PHB e com menor cristalinidade que os homopolímeros de partida. Esses materiais são bons candidatos para utilização como biomateriais em matrizes para liberação controlada de fármacos ou mesmo como compatibilizante em blendas PHB/PCL.
Produção e avaliação bromatológica de espécies forrageiras irrigadas com água salina
Authors: Carvalho Júnior Sebastião B. de , Furtado Dermeval A. , Silva Valneide R. da , Dantas Renilson T. , Lima Iracema da S. P. , Lima Vera L. A. de
Published: September 2010

Uma das alternativas para a destinação de rejeito de dessalinizadores é a utilização em tanques de piscicultura e carcinocultura e posterior reúso na irrigação de culturas tolerantes a salinidade. O trabalho foi conduzido no município de Barra de Santa Rosa, PB, objetivando verificar a taxa de germinação da semente, brotação das mudas e características bromatológicas de maniçoba (Manihot glaziovii Muell Arg), erva-sal (Atriplex nummularia), flor de seda (Calotropis procera) e jureminha (Desmanthus virgatus), cultivadas e irrigadas com água excedentes de tanques de piscicultura e carcinocultura, oriundos de rejeito de dessalinizadores, com condutividade elétrica de 5.800 e 5.200 μS cm-1, respectivamente. A flor de seda e erva-sal apresentam maiores taxas de germinação (96,0%) e brotação (70,0%), respectivamente, seguidas da taxa de brotação da maniçoba (62,0%) e da jureminha (51,0%). Do total de mudas transplantadas 95,0; 93,0; 82,7 e 80,5% das plantas de flor de seda, maniçoba, atriplex e jureminha, foram viáveis, respectivamente. As forrageiras apresentaram boa taxa de brotação e germinação e propagação e boa composição bromotologica, onde a jureminha e o atriplex apresentaram teor de proteína, matéria orgânica e energia bruta de 9,4 e 17,8%; 95,0 e 76,3% e 4.295,8 e 3.575,9 cal g-1 de energia bruta, respectivamente.
Disponibilidade de sódio em solo com capim tifton e aplicação de percolado de resíduo sólido
Authors: Silva Denise de F. , Matos Antonio T. de , Pereira Odilon G. , Cecon Paulo R. , Moreira Débora A.
Published: September 2010

Avaliaram-se, com a realização deste trabalho, as alterações na concentração e na saturação do complexo de troca com sódio, em solo cultivado com capim-tifton 85 submetido à aplicação de percolado de resíduo sólido urbano (RSU) em diferentes taxas. Para o desenvolvimento desta pesquisa um reservatório de 5.000 L foi prenchido com RSU novo, visando-se à produção de percolado. O percolado foi aplicado nas taxas de 0 (testemunha), 250, 500, 750, 1000 kg ha-1 d-1 de DBO5. No tratamento testemunha, não receptor do percolado, aplicou-se água da rede de abastecimento público na mesma lâmina definida para aplicação no tratamento 500 kg ha-1 d-1 de DBO5. A aplicação da água e do percolado foi feita diariamente, durante oito meses. A aplicação de percolado de RSU proporcionou acúmulo de sódio em todas as camadas avaliadas do solo porém não causou prejuízo à sua qualidade. Taxas de aplicação inferiores a 1000 kg ha-1 d-1 de DBO5 de percolado de RSU não proporcionaram problemas ao solo durante o período experimental e, portanto, podem ser utilizadas para disposição dessas águas residuárias. Verificou-se, ao final do período de realização do experimento, que os valores de percentagem de saturação de sódio (PST) permaneceram abaixo do limite de 15% porém se espera, em uma estimativa de aplicação mais prolongada, a superação desses limites na camada mais superficial do solo (0 a 0,10 m) após 1,2 anos de aplicação do percolado de RSU.
O uso de textos de divulgaçao científica para o ensino de conceitos sobre ecologia a estudantes da educação básica
Authors: Perticarrari André , Trigo Fernando Rossi , Barbieri Marisa Ramos , Covas Dimas Tadeu
Published: September 2010

O objetivo desta pesquisa foi avaliar o processo de aprendizagem de alunos do Ensino Básico a partir do uso de texto de divulgação científica desenvolvido pela Casa da Ciência do Hemocentro de Ribeirão Preto, com participação de pesquisadores. A prática pedagógica foi baseada em estudo de texto como técnica de ensino e consistiu na leitura, estudo e discussão do texto sobre Ecologia chamado "Lago e floresta: tão diferentes, mas muito semelhantes", o qual abordava o funcionamento dos ecossistemas. Foram aplicados questionários para avaliação da articulação de conceitos apresentada pelos alunos, cujas respostas foram analisadas de acordo com os objetivos cognitivos de Bloom. Com os resultados obtidos, pode-se afirmar que o uso de texto adequadamente preparado, associado à ação do professor como mediador, interferindo no processo cognitivo, e do aluno como agente ativo, possibilitou que os alunos fossem além do conhecimento de terminologias e fatos, importantes para a aprendizagem significativa.
Identifying Instructional Moves During Guided Learning
Authors: Frey Nancy , Fisher Douglas
Published: September 2010

This study examined teachers' actions during small‐group guided instruction as they scaffolded students' understanding. The data suggest that expert teachers use a process that has four components: questions to check for understanding, prompts for cognitive and metacognitive work, cues to alter the learners' attention, and direct explanations. As part of a gradual release of responsibility framework, this system serves as the scaffolds that students need to successfully accomplish tasks alongside the teacher.
Using Copy Change With Trade Books to Teach Earth Science
Authors: Bintz William P. , Wright Pam , Sheffer Julie
Published: September 2010

Developing and implementing relevant, challenging, integrative, and exploratory curriculum is critical at all levels of schooling. This article describes one attempt to develop and implement an instance of interdisciplinary curriculum by using copy change with trade books to teach earth science. Specifically, it introduces trade books as a way to integrate science and literacy and address national science and literacy content standards. It also describes using copy change to teach earth science in a fifth‐grade classroom and shares samples of student work that resulted from this engagement. It ends with reflections of the experience and final thoughts for integrating science and literacy at all levels of schooling.
Solution‐processed oxide semiconductors for low‐cost and high‐performance thin‐film transistors and fabrication of organic light‐emitting‐diode displays
Authors: Ryu Myung‐Kwan , Park KyungBae , Seon Jong‐Baek , Lee Sang Yoon
Published: September 2010

Abstract— High‐performance solution‐processed oxide‐semiconductor (OS) thin‐film transistors (TFTs) and their application to a TFT backplane for active‐matrix organic light‐emitting‐diode (AMOLED) displays are reported. For this work, bottom‐gated TFTs having spin‐coated amorphous In‐Zn‐O (IZO) active layers formed at 450°C have been fabricated. A mobility (μ) as high as 5.0 cm2/V‐sec, −0.5 V of threshold voltage (VT), 0.7 V/dec of subthreshold swing (SS), and 6.9 × 108 of on‐off current ratio were obtained by using an etch‐stopper (ES) structure TFT. TFTs exhibited uniform characteristics within 150 × 150‐mm2 substrates. Based on these results, a 2.2‐in. AMOLED display driven by spin‐coated IZO TFTs have also been fabricated. In order to investigate operation instability, a negative‐bias‐temperature‐stress (NBTS) test was carried out at 60°C in ambient air. The IZO‐TFT showed −2.5 V of threshold‐voltage shift (ΔVT) after 10,800 sec of stress time, comparable with the level (ΔVT = −1.96 V) of conventional vacuum‐deposited a‐Si TFTs. Also, other issues regarding solution‐processed OS technology, including the instability, lowering process temperature, and printable devices are discussed.
Low‐temperature sputtered mixtures of high‐κ and high bandgap dielectrics for GIZO TFTs
Authors: Barquinha Pedro , Pereira Luis , Gonçalves Gonçalo , Martins Rodrigo , Fortunato Elvira , Kuscer Danjela , Kosec Marija , Vilà Anna , Olziersky Antonis , Morante Juan Ramon
Published: September 2010

Abstract— This paper discusses the properties of sputtered multicomponent amorphous dielectrics based on mixtures of high‐κ and high‐bandgap materials and their integration in oxide TFTs, with processing temperatures not exceeding 150°C. Even if Ta2O5 films are already amorphous, multicomponent materials such as Ta2O5—SiO2 and Ta2O5—Al2O3 allow an increase in the bandgap and the smoothness of the films, reducing their leakage current and improving (in the case of Ta2O5—SiO2) the dielectric/semiconductor interface properties when these dielectrics are integrated in TFTs. For HfO2‐ based dielectrics, the advantages of multicomponent materials are even clearer: while HfO2 films present a polycrystalline structure and a rough surface, HfO2—SiO2 films exhibit an amorphous structure and a very smooth surface. The integration of the multicomponent dielectrics in GIZO TFTs allows remarkable performance, comparable with that of GIZO TFTs using SiO2 deposited at 400°C by PECVD. For instance, with Ta2O5—SiO2 as the dielectric layer, field‐effect mobility of 35 cm2/(V‐sec), close to 0 V turn‐on voltage, an on/off ratio higher than 106, a subthreshold slope of 0.24 V/dec, and a small/recoverable threshold voltage shifts under constant current (ID= 10 μA) stress during 24 hours are achieved. Initial results with multilayers of SiO2/HfO2—SiO2/SiO2 are also shown, allowing a lower leakage current with lower thickness and excellent device performance.
Acute Myocardial Infarction Manifested with Headache
Authors: Chatzizisis Yiannis S , Saravakos Panagiotis , Boufidou Amalia , Parharidou Despoina , Styliadis Ioannis
Published: September 2010

We report a very rare case of a patient who presented with headache as the sole symptom of an acute myocardial infarction (AMI). The patient underwent primary percutaneous coronary angioplasty followed by drug-eluting stent implantation and the headache was immediately relieved. The pathophysiologic explanation of the occurrence of headache as a sole manifestation of an AMI is discussed.
Use of Progenitor Cells in Pain Management
Authors: Eaton M.J. , Quintero Wolfe Stacey , Widerström-Noga Eva
Published: September 2010

The use of progenitor/stem cells to modulate the sensory systems in chronic pain is a new field in
translational research. This follows 30 years of non-human cell therapy approaches to elucidate which tissue
source, cell phenotype, neurotransmitter, or peptide might be antinociceptive in models of pain. Stem or
progenitor approaches have been tested in cardiac myopathies, liver dysfunction, stroke, and genetic
abnormalities, but almost none have applied progenitor cells to the relief of neuropathic, pain. Perhaps the best
studied neural progenitor cell line NT2, has recently resulted in two NT2-derived cell lines: hNT2.17, secreting
the inhibitory neurotransmitters GABA and glycine; and hNT2.19, secreting the neurotransmitter serotonin.
Each of these NT2-lines has demonstrated antinociceptive potential in models of SCI-related neuropathic pain,
in peripheral neuropathy, and diabetic neuropathic pain. These human progenitors may prove to be useful in the
relief of chronic pain and open the way to other regenerative approaches to pain management.
Exact analytic solutions of nonlinear evolution equations
Authors: David Claire
Published: September 2010

This chapter presents the main classical methods used to obtain exact explicit solutions
of classical nonlinear evolution equations.
Some Aspects concerning the Numerical Computation of Solitons
Authors: Di Menza Laurent
Published: September 2010

The aim of this short review paper is to give a few methods in order to calculate
stationary states for nonlinear dispersive equations arising in various physical contexts
among which fluid theory. The shooting method and the continuation method will be
emphasized.
The Dynamics of Two Classes of Singular Nonlinear Traveling Wave Equations and Loop Solutions
Authors: Li Jibin
Published: September 2010

In this chapter, applying the qualitative theory of planar dynamical systems, we
study the traveling solitary wave solutions and loop solutions of several nonlinear evolution
equations. Dynamical behaviors and phase portraits are illustrated by numerical
simulations in differential parametric regions. Three typical traveling wave equations are
carefully investigated. All phase portraits of their corresponding traveling waves with
different profiles are given. Analysis from a theoretical viewpoint of dynamical systems
shows that the so-called loop- and inverted-loop-soliton solutions, as well as loop-periodic
solutions reportedly existing in the above three equations, are merely visual illusion of
numerical artifacts. To reveal the mystery, all the exact parametric representations of
traveling wave solutions of the above three equations are derived in precise analytical
forms.
Fabrication and Super-Hydrophobicity of TiO2 Nanostructure with Urchin Shapes
Authors: Zhang Qunbing , Wang Jun
Published: September 2010

Titanium dioxide (TiO2) film with urchin-like nanostructures has been successfully fabricated without invoking any catalyst or template on silicon substrate. The morphological features characterized by FE-SEM showed that TiO2 film consisted of numerous sharply tipped micro-daggers with lengths of several micrometers and diameters of about 20 nm. X-ray diffraction pattern (XRD) shows that all diffraction peaks can be indexed to the rutile phase of TiO2. The water repelling characteristics of the film were measured by Contact Angle Meter as well as snapshots taken from a Hitachi camera. This measurement shows the water has a contact angle (CA) of about 151.2°. The above measurements indicate that the TiO2 film has super-hydrophobic property.
Transesterification of Triolein with Methanol in Reactive Distillation Column: Simulation Studies
Authors: Mueanmas Chokchai , Prasertsit Kulchanat , Tongurai Chakrit
Published: September 2010

Biodiesel is one of the most famous alternative petroleum diesel fuels. It is a clean fuel that causes less pollution than petroleum diesel does. To produce biodiesel by the conventional process, a biodiesel plant requires at least a reactor and a distillation column. Therefore, this work focuses on a feasibility study of using reactive distillation (RD), the combination of a reactor with a distillation column in one unit, to produce biodiesel from palm oil. The hypothesis of using RD is to reduce the amount of excess alcohol in the feed stream bringing its stoichiometric ratio close to that of oil. That causes less energy to be required for the methanol recovery process. Aspen Plus 2006 has been used to simulate this process. The kinetic constants of the conventional process need to be modified for the RD process. The preliminary results show a 4:1 molar ratio of methanol to oil, and the reboiler temperature at 150°C produces a 97.36 %(wt) methyl ester in 5.6 minutes. It can be concluded that using the RD process is more efficient and more feasible than using the conventional process to produce biodiesel from palm oil.
Comment on Rauh and Novy-Marx: The Real Cost to Provide Adequate Retirement Benefits
Authors: Davis Rowland
Published: September 2010

Joshua Rauh and Robert Novy-Marx have substantially under-estimated the cost for a replacement defined contribution plan, according to Rowland Davis.
Bardet-Biedl Syndrome
Authors: Imhoff Olivier , Marion Vincent , Stoetzel Corinne , Durand Myriam , Holder Muriel , Sigaudy Sabine , Sarda Pierre , Hamel Christian P. , Brandt Christian , Dollfus Hélène , Moulin Bruno
Published: September 2010

Background and Objectives

Bardet-Biedl Syndrome (BBS) is a rare autosomal recessive ciliopathy with a wide spectrum of clinical features including obesity, retinitis pigmentosa, polydactyly, mental retardation, hypogonadism, and renal abnormalities. The molecular genetic profile of BBS is currently being investigated after the recent identification of 14 BBS genes involved in primary cilia-linked disease. This study aims to characterize the renal and cardiovascular presentations and to analyze possible relationships between genotypes and clinical phenotypes.

Design, setting, participants & measurements

This clinical study was performed in a national cohort of 33 BBS patients, 22 men and 11 women, all aged >16 years (mean age 26.3 years).

Results

Renal abnormalities, including impairment of renal function and signs of chronic interstitial nephropathy of dysplastic nature, were documented in 82% of the patients. Cardiovascular evaluations revealed that this group of young patients had significant cardiovascular risk factors. Hypertension was found in >30% of the patients and hyperlipidemia in >60%, and almost 50% had other metabolic abnormalities. Overt diabetes was present in only 6%. With regard to genotype-phenotype correlation, patients with a mutation in the BBS6, BBS10, or BBS12 gene (10 of 33 patients) had more severe renal disease.

Conclusions

Our study results confirm the frequent occurrence of renal involvement in patients with BBS, underscore the high risk of cardiovascular disease in these patients, and provide new information on a possible genotype-phenotype correlation.
Indoxyl Sulfate–Induced Endothelial Dysfunction in Patients with Chronic Kidney Disease via an Induction of Oxidative Stress
Authors: Yu Mina , Kim Young Ju , Kang Duk-Hee
Published: September 2010

Background and objectives

Recent data suggest indoxyl sulfate (IS), one of the uremic toxins that accelerate the progression of chronic kidney disease (CKD), may also be responsible for vascular disease via an induction of oxidative stress. The role of IS in endothelial dysfunction in CKD and potential mechanisms of IS-induced endothelial dysfunction were investigated.

Design, setting, participants, & measurements

A prospective observational study in 40 CKD patients was performed. Flow-mediated endothelium-dependent vasodilatation (FMD) and its reaction time before and 24 weeks after an oral adsorbent of IS were evaluated. Plasma levels of IS and markers of oxidative stress were also measured. The proliferation, senescence, and production of nitric oxide and reactive oxygen species from human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVEC) were evaluated and the effect of antioxidants, N-acetylcysteine, rotenone, and apocynin was examined to explore the mechanism of IS-induced endothelial dysfunction.

Results

AST-120 treatment for 24 weeks resulted in a significant increase in FMD with a decrease in IS and oxidized/reduced glutathione ratio. The presence of diabetes and high-sensitivity C-reactive protein were the independent predictors for an improved FMD. IS induced a production of reactive oxygen species in HUVEC, and pretreatment with antioxidants ameliorated IS-induced inhibition of proliferation and nitric oxide production and inhibited a senescence of HUVEC.

Conclusions

IS may play an important role in endothelial dysfunction via generation of oxidative stress with an induction of endothelial senescence. AST-120 improved endothelial dysfunction in patients with CKD associated with a decrease in IS and a restoration of antioxidant reserve.
Proliferative Glomerulonephritis with Monoclonal IgG Deposits Recurs in the Allograft
Authors: Nasr Samih H. , Sethi Sanjeev , Cornell Lynn D. , Fidler Mary E. , Boelkins Mark , Fervenza Fernando C. , Cosio Fernando G. , D'Agati Vivette D.
Published: September 2010

Background and objectives

Proliferative GN with monoclonal IgG deposits (PGNMID) is a newly described entity resembling immune complex GN. Its potential to recur in the allograft is undefined.

Design, setting, participants, & measurements

The first cases of recurrent PGNMID in the allograft are reported.

Results

The cohort includes four Caucasians (3 women, 1 man) with a mean age 58.5 years. No patient had M spike or hematologic malignancy. Recurrence was first documented by biopsy at a mean of 3.8 months posttransplant for indications of renal insufficiency in four patients, proteinuria in three patients, and microhematuria in three patients. Monoclonal IgG deposits (3 IgG3κ and 1 IgG3λ) in the transplants had identical heavy- and light-chain isotypes as in the native kidneys. In two patients, a pattern of endocapillary GN was identified in the native and transplant biopsies, whereas two patients with membranoproliferative GN in the native kidney developed endocapillary or mesangial GN in the transplant. Recurrence was treated with combined high-dose prednisone plus rituximab (n = 3) or plus cyclophosphamide (n = 1). After a mean posttransplant follow-up of 43 months, all four patients achieved reduction in proteinuria and three had reduction in creatinine. Repeat biopsies showed reduced histologic activity after treatment.

Conclusions

PGNMID can recur in the transplant despite the absence of a serum M spike. Recurrence is heralded by proteinuria, hematuria, and allograft dysfunction and manifests diverse histologic patterns. Although the pathogenesis remains unknown, early immunosuppressive therapy appears to stabilize the course.
Combined Neural Inactivation of Suppressor of Cytokine Signaling-3 and Protein-Tyrosine Phosphatase-1B Reveals Additive, Synergistic, and Factor-Specific Roles in the Regulation of Body Energy Balance
Authors: Briancon Nadege , McNay David E. , Maratos-Flier Eleftheria , Flier Jeffrey S.
Published: September 2010

OBJECTIVE

The adipokine hormone leptin triggers signals in the brain that ultimately lead to decreased feeding and increased energy expenditure. However, obesity is most often associated with elevated plasma leptin levels and leptin resistance. Suppressor of cytokine signaling (SOCS)-3 and protein-tyrosine phosphatase 1B (PTP-1B) are two endogenous inhibitors of tyrosine kinase signaling pathways and suppress both insulin and leptin signaling via different molecular mechanisms. Brain-specific inactivation of these genes individually in the mouse partially protects against diet-induced obesity (DIO) and insulin resistance. The aim of this study was to investigate possible genetic interactions between these two genes to determine whether combined reduction in these inhibitory activities results in synergistic, epistatic, or additive effects on energy balance control.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

We generated mice with combined inactivation of the genes coding for SOCS-3 and PTP-1B in brain cells, examined their sensitivity to hormone action, and analyzed the contribution of each gene to the resulting phenotype.

RESULTS

Surprisingly, the Nestin-Cre mice used to mediate gene inactivation displayed a phenotype. Nonetheless, combined inactivation of SOCS-3 and PTP-1B in brain revealed additive effects on several parameters, including partial resistance to DIO and associated glucose intolerance. In addition, synergistic effects were observed for body length and weight, suggesting possible compensatory mechanisms for the absence of either inhibitor. Moreover, a SOCS-3–specific lean phenotype was revealed on the standard diet.

CONCLUSIONS

These results show that the biological roles of SOCS-3 and PTP-1B do not fully overlap and that targeting both factors might improve therapeutic effects of their inhibition in obesity and type 2 diabetes.
Changes in Alcohol Consumption and Subsequent Risk of Type 2 Diabetes in Men
Authors: Joosten Michel M. , Chiuve Stephanie E. , Mukamal Kenneth J. , Hu Frank B. , Hendriks Henk F.J. , Rimm Eric B.
Published: September 2010

OBJECTIVE

The objective of this study was to investigate the association of 4-year changes in alcohol consumption with a subsequent risk of type 2 diabetes.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

We prospectively examined 38,031 men from the Health Professionals Follow-Up Study who were free of diagnosed diabetes or cancer in 1990. Alcohol consumption was reported on food frequency questionnaires and updated every 4 years.

RESULTS

A total of 1,905 cases of type 2 diabetes occurred during 428,497 person-years of follow-up. A 7.5 g/day (approximately half a glass) increase in alcohol consumption over 4 years was associated with lower diabetes risk among initial nondrinkers (multivariable hazard ratio [HR] 0.78; 95% CI: 0.60–1.00) and drinkers initially consuming <15 g/day (HR 0.89; 95% CI: 0.83–0.96), but not among men initially drinking ≥15 g/day (HR 0.99; 95% CI: 0.95–1.02; Pinteraction < 0.01). A similar pattern was observed for levels of total adiponectin and hemoglobin A1c, with a better metabolic profile among abstainers and light drinkers who modestly increased their alcohol intake, compared with men who either drank less or among men who were already moderate drinkers and increased their intake. Likewise, compared with stable light drinkers (0–4.9 g/day), light drinkers who increased their intake to moderate levels (5.0–29.9 g/day) had a significantly lower risk of type 2 diabetes (HR 0.75; 95% CI: 0.62–0.90).

CONCLUSIONS

Increases in alcohol consumption over time were associated with lower risk of type 2 diabetes among initially rare and light drinkers. This lower risk was evident within a 4-year period following increased alcohol intake.
Diabetic Neuropathies: Update on Definitions, Diagnostic Criteria, Estimation of Severity, and Treatments
Authors: Tesfaye Solomon , Boulton Andrew J.M. , Dyck Peter J. , Freeman Roy , Horowitz Michael , Kempler Peter , Lauria Giuseppe , Malik Rayaz A. , Spallone Vincenza , Vinik Aaron , Bernardi Luciano , Valensi Paul ,   on behalf of the Toronto Diabetic Neuropathy Expert Group
Published: September 2010

Preceding the joint meeting of the 19th annual Diabetic Neuropathy Study Group of the European Association for the Study of Diabetes (NEURODIAB) and the 8th International Symposium on Diabetic Neuropathy in Toronto, Canada, 13–18 October 2009, expert panels were convened to provide updates on classification, definitions, diagnostic criteria, and treatments of diabetic peripheral neuropathies (DPNs), autonomic neuropathy, painful DPNs, and structural alterations in DPNs.
Source localization and sensor placement in environmental monitoring
Authors: Khapalov Alexander
Published: September 2010

Source localization and sensor placement in environmental monitoring

In this paper we discuss two closely related problems arising in environmental monitoring. The first is the source localization problem linked to the questionHow can one find an unknown "contamination source"?The second is an associated sensor placement problem:Where should we place sensors that are capable of providing the necessary "adequate data" for that?Our approach is based on some concepts and ideas developed in mathematical control theory of partial differential equations.
Supervisory predictive control and on-line set-point optimization
Authors: Tatjewski Piotr
Published: September 2010

Supervisory predictive control and on-line set-point optimization

The subject of this paper is to discuss selected effective known and novel structures for advanced process control and optimization. The role and techniques of model-based predictive control (MPC) in a supervisory (advanced) control layer are first shortly discussed. The emphasis is put on algorithm efficiency for nonlinear processes and on treating uncertainty in process models, with two solutions presented: the structure of nonlinear prediction and successive linearizations for nonlinear control, and a novel algorithm based on fast model selection to cope with process uncertainty. Issues of cooperation between MPC algorithms and on-line steady-state set-point optimization are next discussed, including integrated approaches. Finally, a recently developed two-purpose supervisory predictive set-point optimizer is discussed, designed to perform simultaneously two goals: economic optimization and constraints handling for the underlying unconstrained direct controllers.
Surrogate data: A novel approach to object detection
Authors: Tabor Zbisław
Published: September 2010

Surrogate data: A novel approach to object detection

In the present study a novel method is introduced to detect meaningful regions of a gray-level noisy images of binary structures. The method consists in generating surrogate data for an analyzed image. A surrogate image has the same (or almost the same) power spectrum and histogram of gray-level values as the original one but is random otherwise. Then minmax paths are generated in the original image, each characterized by its length, minmax intensity and the intensity of the starting point. If the probability of the existence of a path with the same characteristics but within surrogate images is lower than some user-specified threshold, it is concluded that the path in the original image passes through a meaningful object. The performance of the method is tested on images corrupted by noise with varying intensity.
Quality improvement of rule-based gene group descriptions using information about GO terms importance occurring in premises of determined rules
Authors: Sikora Marek , Gruca Aleksandra
Published: September 2010

Quality improvement of rule-based gene group descriptions using information about GO terms importance occurring in premises of determined rules

In this paper we present a method for evaluating the importance of GO terms which compose multi-attribute rules. The rules are generated for the purpose of biological interpretation of gene groups. Each multi-attribute rule is a combination of GO terms and, based on relationships among them, one can obtain a functional description of gene groups. We present a method which allows evaluating the influence of a given GO term on the quality of a rule and the quality of a whole set of rules. For each GO term, we compute how big its influence on the quality of generated set of rules and therefore the quality of the obtained description is. Based on the computed quality of GO terms, we propose a new algorithm of rule induction in order to obtain a more synthetic and more accurate description of gene groups than the description obtained by initially determined rules. The obtained GO terms ranking and newly obtained rules provide additional information about the biological function of genes that compose the analyzed group of genes.
Seismic stratigraphy based chronostratigraphy (SSBC) of the Serbian Banat region of the Pannonian Basin
Authors: Pigott John , Radivojevic Dejan
Published: September 2010

Seismic stratigraphy based chronostratigraphic (SSBC) analysis of the Serbian Banat region allows the delineation of the spatial and stratigraphic relationships of the generally regressive and shallowing upward Neogene depositional fill of a tectonically unstable central portion of the Pannonian Basin. When geometrically restored in time and space, the sediment dispersal directions, sediment source directions, types of sedimentation breaks and the tectonic events influencing basin evolution can be delineated. For such an analysis the time-transgressive lithostratigraphic units used in the neighbouring Hungarian part of the Pannonian Basin are conveniently introduced based upon their characteristic seismic facies and constrained borehole log records as mappable seismic stratigraphic sequence units, termed “seismic operational sequences”. The respective Neogene stage and operational sequence equivalents (Hungarian lithostratigraphic units or formations) are the Middle Miocene (Badenian, Sarmatian), Upper Miocene-Lower Pliocene (Pannonian-Endrod and Szolnok Formations; Pontian- Algyo and Ujfalu Formations and Lower Pliocene- Zagyva Formation) and Upper Pliocene-Quaternary (Nagyalfold Formation).

SSBC analysis greatly assists in the geological constraint or “geovalidation” of interpreted seismic stratigraphic relationships and provides potentially critical insight into stratigraphic and structural problems of non-unique interpretations. In the specific case, using such an approach on previously unpublished regional seismic lines, SSBC analysis reveals that the Banat region has undergone structural inversion. This may be related to changes in local stress directions along strike slip faults, which initiated in earliest Late Miocene (Endrod Formation), culminating in the reverse tilting and incipient shortening of the western graben. Therefore during the time interval that the Badenian through Endrod sediments were deposited in the graben, autocyclic progradation initiated from the Kikinda Szeged High in the East followed by Szolnok, Algyo, Ujfalu and younger units prograding from the West as the central high uplifted relative to the graben. Such tectonic inversion has substantial hydrocarbon potential implications for exploration in the region.
The use of buccal cells for rapid diagnosis of myotonic dystrophy type 1
Authors: Holt Ian , Quinlivan Ros , Couto Jillian , Monckton Darren , Morris Glenn
Published: September 2010

Type 1 myotonic dystrophy (DM1) is an autosomal dominant disorder caused by a CTG repeat expansion. RNA containing expanded CUG repeats does not leave the nucleus, but accumulates in discrete nuclear foci which sequester the human muscleblind-like (MBNL) proteins. We have examined buccal cells from 15 adult DM1 patients and 7 control non-DM patients to determine whether nuclear foci can be detected by either immunostaining for MBNL1 protein or fluorescent in situ hybridisation (FISH) for the CUG repeat RNA. Both methods detected nuclear foci in all three early-onset patients, but only in a minority of 12 less severe DM1 patients. There were no false-positive results in the 7 controls. Although the method does not reliably identify all DM1 patients, it may prove useful as a rapid test for severe congenital DM1 in floppy babies.
Perception of dynamic facial emotional expressions in adolescents with autism spectrum disorders (ASD)
Authors: Kessels Roy , Spee Pieter , Hendriks Angelique
Published: September 2010

Previous studies have shown deficits in the perception of static emotional facial expressions in individuals with autism spectrum disorders (ASD), but results are inconclusive. Possibly, using dynamic facial stimuli expressing emotions at different levels of intensities may produce more robust results, since these resemble the expression of emotions in daily life to a greater extent. 30 Young adolescents with high-functioning ASD (IQ>85) and 30 age- and intelligence-matched controls (ages between 12 and 15) performed the Emotion Recognition Task, in which morphs were presented on a computer screen, depicting facial expressions of the six basic emotions (happiness, disgust, fear, anger, surprise and sadness) at nine levels of emotional intensity (20–100%). The results showed no overall group difference on the ERT, apart from a slightly worse performance on the perception of the emotions fear (p<0.03) and disgust (p<0.05). No interaction was found between intensity level of the emotions and group. High-functioning individuals with ASD perform similar to matched controls on the perception of dynamic facial emotional expressions, even at low intensities of emotional expression. These findings are in agreement with other recent studies showing that emotion perception deficits in high-functioning ASD may be less pronounced than previously thought.
Exon-specific dystrophin antibodies for studies of Duchenne muscular dystrophy
Authors: Lam Le , Nguyen Giang , Man Nguyen , Sewry Caroline , Morris Glenn
Published: September 2010

Exon-specific anti-dystrophin antibodies are used to monitor the success of treatments for Duchenne muscular dystrophy that aim to restore the missing dystrophin protein. Dystrophin is a large cytoskeletal protein encoded by 79 exons and expressed mainly in muscle. Most cases of Duchenne and Becker muscular dystrophies are caused by genetic deletion of one or more exons. In-frame deletions permit some synthesis of internally-deleted dystrophin and cause the milder Becker form, while out-of-frame deletions in the severe Duchenne form result in early stop-codons and no functional dystrophin synthesis. In this study, we describe the production of ten new monoclonal antibodies against a rod region encoded by exons 55–59 and their mapping to specific dystrophin exons, thus filling a major gap in the spectrum of available antibodies. The antibodies have already been applied in a published clinical trial of a drug treatment for Duchenne muscular dystrophy.
Early communication development in socially deprived children — similar to autism?
Authors: Cepanec Maja , Gmajnić Iva , Ljubešić Marta
Published: September 2010

Social deprivation leads to various neuroanatomical, neuropsychological and behavioral disturbances in humans as well as in experimental animals. Shared characteristics of socially deprived subjects and subjects with autism have been documented. The aim of this study was to analyze early development of communication in institutionalized (INST) children (12–24 months) in comparison with age- and sexmatched group of typically developing (TD) children and a group of children with autism spectrum disorders (ASD). Our findings show that both socially deprived (INST) children and ASD children display delayed pattern of development in social, speech and symbolic domains. However, although INST children display significant developmental delay and share some features with ASD children, they have a qualitatively different developmental pattern of social communication in comparison to children with ASD. The results of this study indicate that growing up in an institution and lack of social and environmental stimuli influences development of skills that are fundamental for early speech and language development.