bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Quality of life of victims of traumatic brain injury six months after the trauma
Authors: Vieira Rita de Cássia Almeida , Hora Edilene Curvelo , Oliveira Daniel Vieira de , Ribeiro Maria do Carmo de Oliveira , Sousa Regina Márcia Cardoso de
Published: August 2013

OBJECTIVE: to describe the quality of life of victims of traumatic brain injury six months after the event and to show the relationship between the results observed and the clinical, sociodemographic and return to productivity data. METHOD: data were analyzed from 47 victims assisted in a trauma reference hospital in the municipality of Aracaju and monitored in an outpatient neurosurgery clinic. The data were obtained through analysis of the patient records and structured interviews, with the application of the World Health Organization Quality of Life, brief version, questionnaire. RESULTS: the victims presented positive perceptions of their quality of life, and the physical domain presented the highest mean value (68.4±22.9). Among the sociodemographic characteristics, a statistically significant correlation was found between marital status and the psychological domain. However, the return to productivity was related to all the domains. CONCLUSION: the return to productivity was an important factor for the quality of life of the victims of traumatic brain injury and should direct the public policies in promoting the health of these victims.
Overload of families taking care of elderly people with Alzheimer's Disease: a comparative study
Authors: Borghi Ana Carla , Castro Vivian Carla de , Marcon Sonia Silva , Carreira Lígia
Published: August 2013

OBJECTIVE: to compare the overload of the main and secondary family carers of patients with Alzheimer's Disease, and identify which dimension generates most impact. METHOD: a comparative study conducted in the city of Maringá, State of Paraná, with 20 primary carers of elderly patients with Alzheimer's Disease and 20 secondary caregivers. The data was collected in May and June 2012, using the Scale for Assessment of Overload of Members of Psychiatric Patients' Families (FBIS-BR), and the results were analysed using the Mann-Whitney test and analysis of variance. RESULTS: the global objective overload, and also in each subscale, was significantly greater in the group of main caregivers; the subjective overload showed no difference between the groups. Comparing the subscales, the routine assistance provided to the patient had greater influence on objective overload in both groups, and the concern with the elderly patient was the dimension that had most influence on the subjective overload of main caregivers and also of secondary caregivers. CONCLUSION: the differences in overload between the different groups reinforces the need for planning of health care actions for each type of caregiver, seeking to reduce these differences.
The motherhood experience in the context of social vulnerability: a comprehensive approach to social phenomenology
Authors: Muñoz Luz Angélica , Sanchez Ximena , Arcos Estela , Vollrath Antonia , Bonatti Carla
Published: August 2013

OBJECTIVE: to understand the future expectations and experience of vulnerable mothers from pregnancy to their child's early years. METHODS: this qualitative study used the social phenomenology of Alfred Schütz as a framework. From January to April 2011, nine mothers from the 2009 program "Chile Grows with You" were interviewed at health centers in an urban Santiago de Chile community. RESULTS: analysis of the "lived type" led to an understanding of the mothers' real-world experience. Unexpected pregnancies in extremely vulnerable mothers are associated with feelings of hopelessness then resignation. There is no plan for the future; the mother lives in the present with great uncertainty. CONCLUSIONS: from the mothers' stories, significant patterns were identified in their experiences, yielding insights into society from these women's perspectives. For humanized, comprehensive nursing care, this expertise directs interventions designed to overcome despair in women excluded because of their invisibility and poverty.
Alcohol consumption and risky sexual practices: the pattern of nursing students from the Spanish University
Authors: Gil-García Eugenia , Martini Jussara Gue , Porcel-Gálvez Ana Maria
Published: August 2013

OBJECTIVE: to determine the prevalence of substance abuse and unsafe sexual practices and to analyze the relationship between them, in nursing students at the University of Seville. METHOD: quantitative methodological approach with a descriptive cross-sectional design. The population was composed of first year nursing students in the University of Seville, during the academic year 2010-2011 (N=510), with consecutive opportunistic sampling composed of students who attended class on the scheduled day (n=291). RESULTS: a high prevalence of alcohol consumption, and increased likelihood of not using protective measures during sexual practices when alcohol had been consumed, was present. CONCLUSION: these findings are consistent with those obtained in the same population in Brazil, and highlight the need to strengthen in the nursing curriculum, the transverse axis related to the prevention of substance abuse, especially alcohol.
Consumption of psychiatric drugs by patients of medical and surgical clinics in a general hospital
Authors: Shirama Flavio Hiroshi , Miasso Adriana Inocenti
Published: August 2013

PURPOSES: to identify the prevalence of the use of psychiatric drugs among patients admitted to medical and surgical clinics of a general hospital, and also the factors related to the consumption of this type of medication. METHOD: this is a transversal, descriptive, correlational study with quantitative analysis. For the collection of data, there was use of structured interviews and also reference to medical files. RESULTS: there was confirmation of a high prevalence of users of psychiatric drugs, which was associated to the female sex, to people who do not practice Roman Catholicism, and admittance to the clinic not covered by the Single Health System (Sistema Único de Saúde - SUS), as well as the presence of common mental disorders. Benzodiazepine drugs were the most commonly used psychiatric drugs. Among the total number of users, there has been the identification of patients who were not aware that they were receiving such medication. Doctors who are not psychiatrists were responsible for most prescriptions of psychiatric drugs. CONCLUSIONS: this signals the need to prepare health professionals to deal with psychological and social problems commonly found in clinical practice, in order to promote the rational use of psychiatric drugs.
Maternal ability to take care of children exposed to HIV
Authors: Freitas Julyana Gomes , Barroso Léa Maria Moura , Galvão Marli Teresinha Gimeniz
Published: August 2013

OBJECTIVE: to assess the ability of mothers to take care of children exposed to HIV, using the Assessment Scale of Care Skills for Children Exposed to HIV at Birth and to check the association between the scale dimensions and maternal characteristics. METHOD: this cross-sectional study involved 62 HIV+ mothers whose children of up to one year old had been exposed to the virus at birth. The Assessment Scale of Care Skills for Children Exposed to HIV at Birth consists of 52 items and five dimensions, indicating high, moderate or low care ability. RESULTS: 72.7% of the mothers appropriately offered zidovudine syrup; 86.0% were highly skilled to prepare and administer milk formula; 44.4% were moderately able to prepare and administer complementary feeding; 76.5% revealed high ability to administer prophylactic treatment against pneumonia and 95.3% demonstrated high abilities for clinical monitoring and immunization. Significant associations were found between some maternal variables and the scale dimensions. CONCLUSION: the scale permits the assessment of maternal care delivery to these children and the accomplishment of specific child health interventions.
Changes in the frequency of food intake among children and teenagers: monitoring in a reference service
Authors: Mariz Larissa Soares , Medeiros Carla Campos Muniz , Vieira Caroline Evelin Nascimento Kluczynik , Enders Bertha Cruz , Coura Alexsandro Silva
Published: August 2013

PURPOSE: to identify changes in the food intake patterns among overweight children and teenagers, treated at a reference medical centre. METHOD: the method used is that of a cohort study, between April 2010 and April 2011. A total of 109 children and teenagers, either obese or overweight, took part in the study. The population was divided into two subgroups depending on the permanence period (more than 6 months, and less than 6 months off the treatment). The chi-square test and logistic regression were carried out. RESULTS: the group which had been longer off the treatment tended to consume more soft drinks, pasta and fried foods, and less fruit and vegetables. The group with less time showed an improvement, with a reduction of consumption of soft drinks and other goodies. There was confirmation of an increased risk for consumption of soft drinks, pasta and goodies in general, as also detachment from the treatment in adolescence. CONCLUSIONS: The group with a longer period of monitoring has had a positive change in food intake frequency. The main contribution made by this study is that of showing that multiprofissional treatment, including some nursing care, is efficient in progressively changing the food intake of children and adolescents who are overweight.
Routine healthcare for families in transition after a natural disaster
Authors: Fernandes Gisele Cristina Manfrini , Boehs Astrid Eggert
Published: August 2013

OBJECTIVE: to present the healthcare routines of families in transition after natural disasters based on the Family Routines and Rituals theoretical framework. METHOD: this qualitative study of multiple cases was developed based on six rural families in southern Brazil, 2 years after a natural disaster. The data were collected through participant observation, interviews, narratives, genograms, ecomaps, and routine calendars, and a narrative analysis was conducted. RESULTS: families showed notable episodes of illness that required professional assistance during post-disaster care, daily routine care, and other routines associated with healthcare services. CONCLUSION: these results reinforce the need for nurses to attend to family experiences during transitions after natural disasters and to prepare for the changes and needs with regard to healthcare and its promotion.
Continuing education in the family health strategy: rethinking educational groups
Authors: Fortuna Cinira Magali , Matumoto Silvia , Pereira Maria José Bistafa , Camargo-Borges Celiane , Kawata Lauren Suemi , Mishima Silvana Martins
Published: August 2013

OBJECTIVE: to analyze the experience of the family health team in resignifying the way to develop educational groups. METHOD: groups of discussion, with twenty-six biweekly group meetings conducted, with an average of fifteen professionals from the family health team, during the year 2009. The empirical material consisted of the transcription of the groups, on which thematic analysis was performed. RESULTS: two themes were developed and explored from the collective discussions with the team: "The experience and coordination of the groups" and "The work process and educational groups in a service-school". CONCLUSIONS: continuing Education in Health developed with the team, not only permitted learning about the educational groups that comprised the population, but also contributed to the team's analysis of its own relationships and its work process that is traversed by institutions. This study contributed to the advancement of scientific knowledge about the process of continuing health education as well as educational groups with the population. Also noteworthy is the research design used, providing reflexivity and critical analysis on the part of the team about the group process experienced in the meetings, appropriating knowledge in a meaningful and transformative manner.
The metabolic theory of ecology convincingly explains the latitudinal diversity gradient of Neotropical freshwater fish
Authors: Bailly Dayani , Cassemiro Fernanda A. S. , Agostinho Carlos S. , Marques Elineide E. , Agostinho Angelo A.
Published: August 2013

In the context of diversity gradients, the metabolic theory of ecology (MTE) posits that the logarithm of species richness should decrease linearly with the inverse of temperature, resulting in a specific slope. However, the empirical validity of this model depends on whether the data do not violate certain assumptions. Here, we test the predictions of MTE evaluating all of its assumptions simultaneously. We used Neotropical freshwater fish and tested whether the logarithm of species richness varied negatively and linearly with temperature, resulting in the slope value specified by the MTE. As we observed that the assumption of the energetic equivalence of populations was not achieved, we also analyzed whether the energetic nonequivalence of populations could be responsible for the possible lack of fit to the MTE predictions. Our results showed that the relationship between richness and the inverse of temperature was linear, negative and significant and included the slope value predicted by the MTE. With respect to the assumptions, we observed that there was no spatial variation in the average energy flux of populations or in the body size and abundance of species. However, the energetic equivalence of populations was not achieved and the violation of this assumption did not affect the predictive power of the model. We conclude that the validity of the assumptions (spatial invariance in the average flux energy of populations and spatial invariance in the body size and abundance, especially) is required for the correct interpretation of richness patterns. Furthermore, we conclude that MTE is robust in its explanation of diversity gradients for freshwater fish, proving to be a valuable tool in describing ecological complexity from individuals to ecosystems.
Correcting Mucogingival Deformities at the Time of Extraction for a Future Implant Site: A Case Report
Authors: Gober Daniel D. , Vardar‐Sengul Saynur
Published: August 2013

Introduction: Existing soft tissue deformities around a tooth planned for extraction and replacement with a dental implant may jeopardize the esthetic and physiologic outcome of any dental implant treatment. If soft tissue deformities can be prevented, minimized, or corrected at the time of tooth extraction for the future implant site and the adjacent teeth, more predictable outcomes with superior esthetics and health can be accomplished along with fewer surgical visits.

Case Presentation: This case report describes a patient who presented with mucogingival deformities around a tooth scheduled for extraction and subsequent implant placement. The adjacent tooth also presented with similar characteristics. Surgical modifications and refinements were used by performing an epithelialized free gingival graft (E‐FGG) at the time of tooth extraction to enhance the tissue quality of the future implant site and its neighboring tooth.

Conclusion: The identification of inadequate attached gingiva in the area of future implant placement and neighboring teeth in the treatment planning phase can enable clinicians to address any mucogingival deformities with E‐FGGs at the time of extraction without subjecting the patient to any additional surgical visits and healing time.
Effect of cyclical forces on the periodontal ligament and alveolar bone remodeling during orthodontic tooth movement
Authors: Kalajzic Zana , Peluso Elizabeth Blake , Utreja Achint , Dyment Nathaniel , Nihara Jun , Xu Manshan , Chen Jing , Uribe Flavio , Wadhwa Sunil
Published: August 2013

Objective:

To investigate the effect of externally applied cyclical (vibratory) forces on the rate of tooth movement, the structural integrity of the periodontal ligament, and alveolar bone remodeling.

Methods:

Twenty-six female Sprague-Dawley rats (7 weeks old) were divided into four groups: CTRL (unloaded), VBO (molars receiving a vibratory stimulus only), TMO (molars receiving an orthodontic spring only), and TMO+VB (molars receiving an orthodontic spring and the additional vibratory stimulus). In TMO and TMO+VB groups, the rat first molars were moved mesially for 2 weeks using Nickel-Titanium coil spring delivering 25 g of force. In VBO and TMO+VB groups, cyclical forces at 0.4 N and 30 Hz were applied occlusally twice a week for 10 minutes. Microfocus X-ray computed tomography analysis and tooth movement measurements were performed on the dissected rat maxillae. Tartrate-resistant acid phosphatase staining and collagen fiber assessment were performed on histological sections.

Results:

Cyclical forces significantly inhibited the amount of tooth movement. Histological analysis showed marked disorganization of the collagen fibril structure of the periodontal ligament during tooth movement. Tooth movement caused a significant increase in osteoclast parameters on the compression side of alveolar bone and a significant decrease in bone volume fraction in the molar region compared to controls.

Conclusions:

Tooth movement was significantly inhibited by application of cyclical forces.
Direct Spectrometry: A New Alternative for Measuring the Fluorescence of Composite Resins and Dental Tissues
Authors: da Silva TM , de Oliveira HPM , Severino D , Balducci I , Huhtala MFRL , Gonçalves SEP
Published: August 2013

The aim of this study was to evaluate the fluorescence intensity of different composite resins and compare those values with the fluorescence intensity of dental tissues. Different composite resins were used to make 10 discs (2 mm in depth and 4 mm in diameter) of each brand, divided into groups: 1) Z (Filtek Z350, 3M ESPE), 2) ES (Esthet-X, Dentsply), 3) A (Amelogen Plus, Ultradent), 4) DVS (Durafill-VS, Heraeus Kulzer) with 2 mm composite resin for enamel (A2), 5) OES ([Esthet-X] opaque-OA [1 mm] + enamel-A2 [1 mm]); 6) ODVSI ([Charisma-Opal/Durafill-VSI], opaque-OM (1 mm) + translucent [1mm]), and 7) DVSI ([Durafill- VSI] translucent [2 mm]). Dental tissue specimens were obtained from human anterior teeth cut in a mesiodistal direction to obtain enamel, dentin, and enamel/dentin samples (2 mm). The fluorescence intensity of specimens was directly measured using an optic fiber associated with a spectrometer (Ocean Optics USB 4000) and recorded in graphic form (Origin 8.0 program). Data were submitted to statistical analysis using Dunnet, Tukey, and Kruskall-Wallis tests. Light absorption of the composite resins was obtained in a spectral range from 250 to 450 nm, and that of dental tissues was between 250 and 300 nm. All composite resins were excited at 398 nm and exhibited maximum emissions of around 485 nm. Fluorescence intensity values for all of the resins showed statistically significant differences (measured in arbitrary units [AUs]), with the exception of groups Z and DVS. Group DVSI had the highest fluorescence intensity values (13539 AU), followed by ODVS (10440 AU), DVS (10146 AU), ES (3946 AU), OES (3841 AU), A (3540 AU), and Z (1146 AU). The fluorescence intensity values for the composite resins differed statistically from those of dental tissues (E=1380 AU; D=6262 AU; E/D=3251 AU). The opacity interfered with fluorescence intensity, and group Z demonstrated fluorescence intensity values closest to that of tooth enamel. It is concluded that the fluorescence intensity values were significantly different among the composite resins and compared with dental tissues. The direct spectrofluorimetric method represents a tool for evaluating the fluorescence of composite resins.
In Vitro Evaluation of Benzalkonium Chloride in the Preservation of Adhesive Interfaces
Authors: Sabatini C , Kim JH , Alias P Ortiz
Published: August 2013

Inhibition of endogenous dentin matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) by benzalkonium chloride (BAC) decreases collagen solubilization and may help improve resin-dentin bond stability. Objective: This study evaluated the resin-dentin bond stability of experimental adhesive blends containing BAC and the stability of dentin matrices by assessing the mass loss and collagen solubilization from dentin beams pretreated with BAC.

Materials and Methods

Twenty-five healthy molars were used for the bond strength evaluation of a two-step etch-and-rinse adhesive (Adper Single Bond Plus, SB) modified with BAC or not. The following groups were tested: 1) SB with no inhibitor (control); 2) topical 2.0% chlorhexidine + SB; 3) 1.0% BAC etchant + SB; 4) 0.5% BAC-SB; and 5) 1.0% BAC-SB. Microtensile bond strength (μTBS) and failure mode distribution under standard error of the mean were evaluated after 24 hours and six months of storage in artificial saliva (AS). A two-way analysis of variance and Tukey test with a significance level of p<0.05 was used for data analysis. In addition, 30 completely demineralized dentin beams from human molars were either dipped in deionized water (DW, control) or dipped in 0.5% and 1.0% BAC for 60 seconds, and then incubated in AS. Collagen solubilization was assessed by evaluating the dry mass loss and quantifying the amount of hydroxyproline (HYP) released from hydrolyzed specimens after four weeks of incubation.

Results

The control group demonstrated lower μTBS than some of the experimental groups containing BAC at 24 hours and six months (p<0.05). When BAC was incorporated into the adhesive blend in concentrations of 0.5% and 1.0%, no reduction in dentin bond strength was observed after six months (p<0.05). Less mass loss and HYP release was seen for dentin matrices pretreated with BAC relative to the control pretreated with DW (p<0.05).

Conclusion

This in vitro study demonstrates that BAC contributes to the preservation of resin-dentin bonds by reducing collagen degradation.
Unusual Case of Giant Multicystic Acanthomatous Ameloblastoma of Mandible in a 70 years old Male
Authors: Singh Prem , Garg Monika , Nauhria Samal , Gupta Sonam
Published: August 2013

Asian Journal of Medical Science, Volume-4 (2013), Pages 1-2 DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/ajms.v4i4.7847
Madelung’s Disease: A Clinical Case and Review of Literature
Authors: Niang Chau Su
Published: August 2013

Madelung’s disease is a rare disease of unknown aetiology. This disease usually affects middle-aged males from Mediterranean area with history of alcohol abuse. We describe an Asian male presented with typical features of Madelung’s disease. Asian Journal of Medical Science, Volume-4 (2013), Pages 33-35 DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/ajms.v4i4.7968
Spectrum of Leprosy Patients with Clinico-Histopathological Correlation: A Hospital Based Study
Authors: Singh Arjun , Gaur R , Ambey R
Published: August 2013

Introduction: Leprosy is a chronic granulomatous, infectious disease involving skin and peripheral nerves. It is present in various clinicopathological forms depending upon immune status of the patients. Histopathological examination of skin provides confirmatory diagnosis in suspected cases and gives indication of progression and regression of disease under treatment. Ridley and Jopling classification is used to classify leprosy. The objective of study was to identify the clinical pattern of leprosy and performed detail clinico- histopathological correlation in our institute. Method: The study was carried out on the skin biopsies received in between 2007-2010. Biopsies were fixed in 10% formalin, processed and stained with Hematoxylin and Eosin, modified Fite Ferraco and Ziehl-Neelsen stains. The predesigned Performa was used to record observation. The clinical diagnosis were correlated with histopathology in all 120 cases. Result: The age of the patients was ranged from 8 to 79 years with mean age of 36.38 years. The male to female ratio of patients was 1.5 to 1. The majority of cases 79 (65.8%) were in the age group of 21-50 years. Highest parity was observed in stable polar group TT 100%. Clinco-histopathological agreement was seen in 98 (81.67%) cases, 14 (11.67%) cases shows minor disagreement and 8 (6%) cases major disagreement. Conclusion: The clinical and histopathological features along with bacteriological index are useful than any single parameter in arriving definitive diagnosis and classification of the leprosy. Asian Journal of Medical Science, Volume-4 (2013), Pages 11-16 DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/ajms.v4i4.7997
Therapeutic Practice Preference in Dentistry: Antibiotics, Analgesics and Antiseptics
Authors: Paudel Keshab Raj , Pokhrel Prenit , Shrestha Amshuman , Raghubanshi Bijendra R , Raut B
Published: August 2013

Objective: Present study was aimed to find out the commonest medicines used in dentistry as preferred by dental practitioners in Nepal. Materials and Methods: Seventy pre-structured questionnaires were distributed to the dental practitioners. Questionnaire was designed to evaluate the use of the antimicrobial, analgesic and antiseptic agents. A total of three open ended questions were included in each questionnaire to know the preference of dental practitioners for different medicines used in dentistry. Yates corrected Chi square test was used wherever applicable and level of significance was set at 5%. Results: Amoxicillin (89.4%, P<0.05), metronidazole (57.8%), amoxicillin with clavulanic acid (21%) and doxycycline (26.2%) were the most frequently preferred antibiotics of first, second, third and fourth choice respectively. Similarly, among analgesics, ibuprofen (52.6%), diclofenac (31.5%), paracetamol (47.3%) and nimesulide (24.5%) had the highest predilection for first, second, third and fourth choice respectively among the dental practitioners. Chlorhexidine (77.2%, P<0.05)) was the most selected antiseptic for the first choice followed by listerine for the second (31.5%) and third (43.8%) choice. Conclusion: First choice antibiotic, analgesic and antiseptic are amoxicillin, ibuprofen and chlorhexidine respectively among the majority of dental practitioners. Asian Journal of Medical Science, Volume-4 (2013), Pages 17-23 DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/ajms.v4i4.8062
Life-stage Analysis of Solvent Induced Fissures under Static Stress in PET Fibers
Authors: Ramisetty M. , Rodriguez A. , Aneja A. , Wang Y.
Published: August 2013

The paper discusses the impact of drawing poly(ethylene terephthalate) (PET) fibers in the presence of solvents, which consist of the first five homologues of aliphatic primary alcohols, namely methanol to amyl alcohol. The solvent induced deformation under tensile load leads to surface fissures characterized by four stages: fissure formation (birth), incipient draw (neck formation), partial draw, and full draw. This process results in internal void formation in the presence of a propagating neck. A design of experiment (DOE) was performed to screen out the process parameters critical for understanding surface fissure formation. Four process parameters were investigated: initial material properties (orientation); environment of draw (i.e. type of alcohols used as solvent); rate of extension; and amount of extension. The response of solvent induced deformation were characterized by the natural draw force reduction; number of fissures formed at time of birth, fissure width at time of formation, and neck angle. Of all the four process parameters involved, the analysis indicates that the material properties and amount of extension were the best predictors of solvent induced fissure formation. Organic solvents reduce the tension required for draw and create internal voids, a porous network, with possibly the penetrant being “sucked” into the interior of PET fibers drawn in the presence of alcohols.
The Influence of Vulcanization Agents on Vulcanization Kinetics of Chloride Butyl Rubber
Authors: He X. R. , Yu H. , Wang X. , Rong Y. Q. , Zhang R.
Published: August 2013

BPR (brominated tert octyl phenolic resin) vulcanization system is one of the commonly used systems for CIIR (chloride butyl rubber). In the vulcanization process, there are two competitive reactions, the cross-linking reaction and the self-poly-condensation reaction of BPR. In this vulcanization system, the metal oxide, as vulcanization active agent, have a greater impact on the kinetics of these two competing reaction. The kinetics equation of overall reaction (including the two competitive reactions) and the BPR self-poly-condensation reaction with different amount of ZnO or MgO were obtained by non-isothermal DSC method. The results showed that ZnO would promote the overall reaction and the BPR self-poly-condensation reaction at lower dosage, the rate constant of overall reaction increased faster than BPR self-poly-condensation reaction rate constant with the increasing of the ZnO content, and when the ZnO content exceeded 7.5 phr, the rate constant of BPR self-poly-condensation reaction decreased; With the increasing of the MgO content, the rate constant of overall reaction and BPR self-poly-condensation reaction reduced, and the rate constant of self-poly-condensation reaction reduced much faster than the rate constant of the overall reaction when the content of MgO changed from 0.5 to 0.75. The cross-linking density was measured by the equilibrium swelling method. The results showed that with the increasing of ZnO content, the cross-linking density increased when it was less than 10 phr, and decreased when the ZnO content exceeded 10 phr. With the increasing of MgO content, the cross-linking density increased when it was less than 0.75 phr, and decreased when the MgO content exceeded 0.75 phr. The mechanical properties and the dynamic mechanical properties were investigated by the universal testing machine and the dynamic mechanical performance analysis (DMA), respectively. The results showed that the ZnO and MgO content had a great impact on the mechanical properties and the dynamic mechanical properties, and the variation trend of the cross-linking density was further confirmed by the corresponding variation of the properties.
Barrier Screw Compounding and Mechanical Properties of EAA Copolymer and Cellulose Fiber Composite
Authors: Ariño R. , Boldizar A.
Published: August 2013

The difficulty of feeding cellulose fibers and thermoplastics into the extruder or injection molding machine is addressed, this being a serious problem in the production of cellulose fiber composites for industrial applications. Agglomerates consisting in cellulose fibers and ethylene-acrylic acid copolymer (EAA) with different cellulose contents and different fiber lengths were processed with two different screws in order to better understand how the dispersion of the fibers can be improved by melt extrusion. A conventional screw with a compression ratio of 4:1 and a screw with barrier flights were used at different screw rotation speeds. The fiber length and fiber content were measured and microscopic analyses were performed in order to estimate the number and size of the cellulose fiber aggregates in the final composites. It was concluded that the barrier screw was more effective than the conventional screw in breaking up the fiber aggregates and dispersing the fibers. More but smaller cellulose aggregates were observed when the barrier screw was used, and the reduction of length was significantly greater for long than for short fibers. In contrast to that was expected, the samples containing the shorter fibers had better mechanical properties, probably due to a better dispersion of the fibers.
Experiments and Modelling of Calender Processing for Shear Thinning Thermoplastics between Counter Rotating Rolls with Differential Velocities
Authors: Magnier R. , Agassant J.-F. , Bastin P.
Published: August 2013

This paper is concerned with a floor application calendering processing using both a PVC and a Polyolefin formulation within a two roll calender. The rheology of both formulations was measured using the Rheoplast, a specific capillary rheometer. Experiments with various velocity differentials were performed and the roll separating force and the sheet exit temperature were measured for each case. An isothermal model based on the lubrication approximations hypothesis together with a power-law behavior for the molten polymer has been developed. Due to the difference between the rotation velocities of the two cylinders, the problem is no longer symmetric and the integration of the generalized Reynolds equation requires taking into account various velocity profiles. The resulting pressure profile enables computation of the roll separating force. The agreement between the model and experiments performed with the PVC formulation at various velocity differentials is fair; however for the Polyolefin formulation there is a significant difference which means that the model for this new formulation needs to be improved.
Special Issue on Graph Algorithms
Authors: Jansson Jesper
Published: August 2013

This special issue of Algorithms is devoted to the design and analysis of algorithms for solving combinatorial problems of a theoretical or practical nature involving graphs, with a focus on computational complexity.
Ubiquitous Integrity via Network Integration and Parallelism—Sustaining Pedestrian/Bike Urbanism
Authors: Hsu Li-Yen
Published: August 2013

Nowadays, due to the concern regarding environmental issues, establishing pedestrian/bike friendly urbanism is widely encouraged. To promote safety-assured, mobile communication environments, efficient, reliable maintenance, and information integrity need to be designed, especially in highly possibly interfered places. For busy traffic areas, regular degree-3 dedicated short range communication (DSRC) networks are safety and information featured with availability, reliability, and maintainability in paths of multi-lanes. For sparsely populated areas, probes of wireless sensors are rational, especially if sensor nodes can be organized to enhance security, reliability, and flexibility. Applying alternative network topologies, such as spider-webs, generalized honeycomb tori, and cube-connected cycles, for comparing and analyzing is proposed in DSRC and cellular communications to enhance integrity in communications.
Enantiocomplementary Yarrowia lipolytica Oxidoreductases: Alcohol Dehydrogenase 2 and Short Chain Dehydrogenase/Reductase
Authors: Napora-Wijata Kamila , Strohmeier Gernot , Sonavane Manoj , Avi Manuela , Robins Karen , Winkler Margit
Published: August 2013

Enzymes of the non-conventional yeast Yarrowia lipolytica seem to be tailor-made for the conversion of lipophilic substrates. Herein, we cloned and overexpressed the Zn-dependent alcohol dehydrogenase ADH2 from Yarrowia lipolytica in Escherichia coli. The purified enzyme was characterized in vitro. The substrate scope for YlADH2 mediated oxidation and reduction was investigated spectrophotometrically and the enzyme showed a broader substrate range than its homolog from Saccharomyces cerevisiae. A preference for secondary compared to primary alcohols in oxidation direction was observed for YlADH2. 2-Octanone was investigated in reduction mode in detail. Remarkably, YlADH2 displays perfect (S)-selectivity and together with a highly (R)-selective short chain dehydrogenase/ reductase from Yarrowia lipolytica it is possible to access both enantiomers of 2-octanol in >99% ee with Yarrowia lipolytica oxidoreductases.
The Impact of Sphingosine Kinase-1 in Head and Neck Cancer
Authors: Tamashiro Paulette , Furuya Hideki , Shimizu Yoshiko , Iino Kayoko , Kawamori Toshihiko
Published: August 2013

Head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) has a high reoccurrence rate and an extremely low survival rate. There is limited availability of effective therapies to reduce the rate of recurrence, resulting in high morbidity and mortality of advanced cases. Late presentation, delay in detection of lesions, and a high rate of metastasis make HNSCC a devastating disease. This review offers insight into the role of sphingosine kinase-1 (SphK1), a key enzyme in sphingolipid metabolism, in HNSCC. Sphingolipids not only play a structural role in cellular membranes, but also modulate cell signal transduction pathways to influence biological outcomes such as senescence, differentiation, apoptosis, migration, proliferation, and angiogenesis. SphK1 is a critical regulator of the delicate balance between proliferation and apoptosis. The highest expression of SphK1 is found in the advanced stage of disease, and there is a positive correlation between SphK1 expression and recurrent tumors. On the other hand, silencing SphK1 reduces HNSCC tumor growth and sensitizes tumors to radiation-induced death. Thus, SphK1 plays an important and influential role in determining HNSCC proliferation and metastasis. We discuss roles of SphK1 and other sphingolipids in HNSCC development and therapeutic strategies against HNSCC.
Limits and Optimization of Power Input or Output of Actual Thermal Cycles
Authors: Açıkkalp Emin , Yamık Hasan
Published: August 2013

In classical thermodynamic, maximum power obtained from system (or minimum power supplied to system) defined as availability (exergy), but availability term is only used for reversible systems. In reality, there is no reversible system, all systems are irreversible, because reversible cycles doesn’t include constrains like time or size and they operates in quasi-equilibrium state. Purpose of this study is to define limits of the all basic thermodynamic cycles and to provide finite-time exergy models for irreversible cycles and to obtain the maximum (or minimum) available power for irreversible (finite-time exergy) cycles. In this study, available power optimization and performance limits were defined all basic irreversible thermodynamic cycles, by using first and second law of thermodynamic. Finally, these results were evaluated in terms of cycles’ first and second law efficiency, COP, power output (or input) and exergy destruction.
Semantic Interoperability of Sensor Data with Volunteered Geographic Information: A Unified Model
Authors: Bakillah Mohamed , Liang Steve , Zipf Alexander , Arsanjani Jamal
Published: August 2013

The increasing availability of sensor devices has resulted in important volumes of sensor data, which has raised the issue of making these data fully discoverable and interpretable by applications and end-users. The idea of OGC Sensor Web Enablement (SWE) has addressed this issue by proposing a set of standards to enable accessibility of sensor data over the Web. Similarly, there is a growing interest in volunteered geographic information (VGI). Considering that several researchers have highlighted the potential of this new type of information as a complement to existing, “traditional” data, it becomes important to develop frameworks to support the integration of VGI from several sources and with other types of data. In this paper, we make a first step in this direction by proposing a framework for the semantic interoperability of sensor data and VGI. After having performed an investigation of the types of VGI applications, we have developed a conceptual model of VGI aligned with relevant ISO standards for describing geospatial features. The purpose of this model is to support the generation of common descriptions for VGI applications, which will act as interfaces to higher-level services, such as discovery and reasoning services, in order to be exploited in conjunction with sensor data by client applications. This process is described through architecture for semantic interoperability of sensor data and VGI that we have developed and that we intend to use to set guidelines for future research on integration of VGI in sensor data cyberinfrastructures. We illustrate the possibilities created by the proposed framework with a description of the various services and interfaces required to implement the framework.
Glycogen Synthase Kinase 3β Inhibition as a Therapeutic Approach in the Treatment of Endometrial Cancer
Authors: Yin Yan , Kizer Nora , Thaker Premal , Chiappinelli Katherine , Trinkaus Kathryn , Goodfellow Paul , Ma Liang
Published: August 2013

Alternative strategies beyond current chemotherapy and radiation therapy regimens are needed in the treatment of advanced stage and recurrent endometrial cancers. There is considerable promise for biologic agents targeting the extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK) pathway for treatment of these cancers. Many downstream substrates of the ERK signaling pathway, such as glycogen synthase kinase 3β (GSK3β), and their roles in endometrial carcinogenesis have not yet been investigated. In this study, we tested the importance of GSK3β inhibition in endometrial cancer cell lines and in vivo models. Inhibition of GSK3β by either lithium chloride (LiCl) or specific GSK3β inhibitor VIII showed cytostatic and cytotoxic effects on multiple endometrial cancer cell lines, with little effect on the immortalized normal endometrial cell line. Flow cytometry and immunofluorescence revealed a G2/M cell cycle arrest in both type I (AN3CA, KLE, and RL952) and type II (ARK1) endometrial cancer cell lines. In addition, LiCl pre-treatment sensitized AN3CA cells to the chemotherapy agent paclitaxel. Administration of LiCl to AN3CA tumor-bearing mice resulted in partial or complete regression of some tumors. Thus, GSK3β activity is associated with endometrial cancer tumorigenesis and its pharmacologic inhibition reduces cell proliferation and tumor growth.
Recycling of Pre-Washed Municipal Solid Waste Incinerator Fly Ash in the Manufacturing of Low Temperature Setting Geopolymer Materials
Authors: Ferone Claudio , Colangelo Francesco , Messina Francesco , Santoro Luciano , Cioffi Raffaele
Published: August 2013

In this work, three samples of municipal solid waste incinerators fly ash (MSWI-FA) have been stabilized in systems containing coal fly ash to create geopolymers through a polycondensation reaction. Monolithic products have been obtained with both MSWI fly ash as received and after the partial removal of chloride and sulfate by water washing. The polycondensation products have been characterized qualitatively by means of Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction and scanning electron microscopy and quantitatively, through the determination of the volume of reacted water and silicate. Furthermore, the heavy metals and chloride releases together with the physico-mechanical properties have been evaluated on the hardened products. In conclusion, considering the technological and environmental performances of the obtained geopolymers, they could be suitable for many non-structural applications, such as backfilling of abandoned quarries, decorative materials or brick fireplaces, hearths, patios, etc.
Self-Healing Characteristics of Damaged Rock Salt under Different Healing Conditions
Authors: Chen Jie , Ren Song , Yang Chunhe , Jiang Deyi , Li Lin
Published: August 2013

Salt deposits are commonly regarded as ideal hosts for geologic energy reservoirs. Underground cavern construction-induced damage in salt is reduced by self-healing. Thus, studying the influencing factors on such healing processes is important. This research uses ultrasonic technology to monitor the longitudinal wave velocity variations of stress-damaged rock salts during self-recovery experiments under different recovery conditions. The influences of stress-induced initial damage, temperature, humidity, and oil on the self-recovery of damaged rock salts are analyzed. The wave velocity values of the damaged rock salts increase rapidly during the first 200 h of recovery, and the values gradually increase toward stabilization after 600 h. The recovery of damaged rock salts is subjected to higher initial damage stress. Water is important in damage recovery. The increase in temperature improves damage recovery when water is abundant, but hinders recovery when water evaporates. The presence of residual hydraulic oil blocks the inter-granular role of water and restrains the recovery under triaxial compression. The results indicate that rock salt damage recovery is related to the damage degree, pore pressure, temperature, humidity, and presence of oil due to the sealing integrity of the jacket material.
Synthesis of Photoresponsive Dual NIR Two-Photon Absorptive [60]Fullerene Triads and Tetrads
Authors: Jeon Seaho , Wang Min , Tan Loon-Seng , Cooper Thomas , Hamblin Michael , Chiang Long
Published: August 2013

Broadband nonlinear optical (NLO) organic nanostructures exhibiting both ultrafast photoresponse and a large cross-section of two-photon absorption throughout a wide NIR spectrum may make them suitable for use as nonlinear biophotonic materials. We report here the synthesis and characterization of two C60-(antenna)x analogous compounds as branched triad C60(>DPAF-C18)(>CPAF-C2M) and tetrad C60(>DPAF-C18)(>CPAF-C2M)2 nanostructures. These compounds showed approximately equal extinction coefficients of optical absorption over 400–550 nm that corresponds to near-IR two-photon based excitation wavelengths at 780–1,100 nm. Accordingly, they may be utilized as potential precursor candidates to the active-core structures of photosensitizing nanodrugs for 2γ-PDT in the biological optical window of 800–1,050 nm.
Susceptibility of Staphylococcus aureus Clinical Isolates to Propolis Extract Alone or in Combination with Antimicrobial Drugs
Authors: Wojtyczka Robert , Dziedzic Arkadiusz , Idzik Danuta , Kępa Małgorzata , Kubina Robert , Kabała-Dzik Agata , Smoleń-Dzirba Joanna , Stojko Jerzy , Sajewicz Mieczysław , Wąsik Tomasz
Published: August 2013

The objective of this study was to assess in vitro the antimicrobial activity of ethanolic extract of Polish propolis (EEPP) against methicillin-sensitive Staphylococcus aureus (MSSA) and methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) clinical isolates. The combined effect of EEPP and 10 selected antistaphylococcal drugs on S. aureus clinical cultures was also investigated. EEPP composition was analyzed by a High Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC) method. The flavonoid compounds identified in Polish Propolis included flavones, flavonones, flavonolols, flavonols and phenolic acids. EEPP displayed varying effectiveness against twelve S. aureus strains, with minimal inhibitory concentration (MIC) within the range from 0.39 to 0.78 mg/mL, determined by broth microdilution method. The average MIC was 0.54 ± 0.22 mg/mL, while calculated MIC50 and MIC90 were 0.39 mg/mL and 0.78 mg/mL, respectively. The minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC) of the EEPP ranged from 0.78 to 3.13 mg/mL. The in vitro combined effect of EEPP and 10 antibacterial drugs was investigated using disk diffusion method-based assay. Addition of EEPP to cefoxitin (FOX), clindamycin (DA), tetracycline (TE), tobramycin (TOB), linezolid (LIN), trimethoprim+sulfamethoxazole (SXT), penicillin (P), erythromycin (E) regimen, yielded stronger, cumulative antimicrobial effect, against all tested S. aureus strains than EEPP and chemotherapeutics alone. In the case of ciprofloxacin (CIP) and chloramphenicol (C) no synergism with EEPP was observed.
Ring Expansion of Vinylaziridines through the Strain-Release Pericyclic Reaction: Recent Developments and Applications
Authors: Heo Yu , Paek Seung-Mann
Published: August 2013

Recent syntheses of azetidines, pyrrolidines, piperidines and azepines through cycloaddition or sigmatropic rearrangements of vinylaziridines are described. Applications to natural product synthesis and mechanistic investigations are also summarized.