bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Edge detection depends on achromatic channel inDrosophila melanogaster
Authors: Zhou Yanqiong , Ji Xiaoxiao , Gong Haiyun , Gong Zhefeng , Liu Li
Published: June 2012

Edges represent important information in object recognition, and thus edge detection is crucial for animal survival. Various types of edges result from visual contrast, such as luminance contrast and color contrast. Thus far, the molecular and neural mechanisms underlying edge detection and the relationship between different edge information-processing pathways have largely been undemonstrated. In the present study, using a color-light-emitting diode (LED)-based Buridan's paradigm, we demonstrated that a blue/green demarcation is able to generate edge-orientation behavior in the adult fly. There is a blue/green intensity ratio, the so-called point of equal-luminance (POE), at which wild-type flies did not show obvious orientation behavior towards edges. This suggests that orientation behavior towards edges is dependent on luminance contrast in Drosophila. The results of mutants ninaE17 and sevLY3;rh52;rh61 demonstrated that achromatic R1-R6 photoreceptor cells, but not chromatic R7/R8 photoreceptor cells, were necessary for orientation behavior towards edges. Moreover, ectopic expression of Rh4, Rh5 or Rh6 could efficiently restore the edge-orientation defect in the ninaE17 mutant. Altogether, our results show that R1-R6 photoreceptor cells are both necessary and sufficient for orientation behavior towards edges in Drosophila.
Evidence for discrete landmark use by pigeons during homing
Authors: Mora Cordula V. , Ross Jeremy D. , Gorsevski Peter V. , Chowdhury Budhaditya , Bingman Verner P.
Published: June 2012

Considerable efforts have been made to investigate how homing pigeons (Columba livia f. domestica) are able to return to their loft from distant, unfamiliar sites while the mechanisms underlying navigation in familiar territory have received less attention. With the recent advent of Global-Positioning-System (GPS) data-loggers small enough to be carried by pigeons, the role of visual environmental features in guiding navigation over familiar areas is beginning to be understood, yet surprisingly, we still know very little about whether homing pigeons can rely on discrete, visual landmarks to guide navigation. To assess a possible role of discrete, visual landmarks in navigation, homing pigeons were first trained to home from a site with four wind turbines as salient landmarks as well as from a control site without any distinctive, discrete landmark features. The GPS-recorded flight paths of the pigeons on the last training release were straighter and more similar among birds from the turbine site compared to the control site. The pigeons were then released from both sites following a clock-shift manipulation. Vanishing bearings from the turbine site continued to be homeward oriented as 13 of 14 pigeons returned home. By contrast, at the control site the vanishing bearings were deflected in the expected clock-shift direction and only 5 of 13 pigeons returned home. Taken together, our results offer the first strong evidence that discrete, visual landmarks are one source of spatial information homing pigeons can utilize to navigate when flying over a familiar area.
Allometric scaling of discontinuous gas exchange patterns in the locust Locusta migratoria throughout ontogeny
Authors: Snelling Edward P. , Matthews Philip G. D. , Seymour Roger S.
Published: June 2012

The discontinuous gas exchange cycle (DGC) is a three-phase breathing pattern displayed by many insects at rest. The pattern consists of an extended breath-hold period (closed phase), followed by a sequence of rapid gas exchange pulses (flutter phase), and then by a period in which respiratory gases move freely between insect and environment (open phase). This study measured CO2 emission in resting locusts Locusta migratoria throughout ontogeny, in normoxia (21 kPa PO2), hypoxia (7 kPa PO2) and hyperoxia (40 kPa PO2), to determine whether body mass and ambient O2 affects DGC phase duration. In normoxia, mean CO2 production rate (MCO2; μmol h-1) scales with body mass (Mb; g) according to the allometric power equation, MCO2 = 9.9Mb0.95±0.09, closed phase duration (C; min) scales with body mass according to the equation, C = 18.0Mb0.38±0.29, closed+flutter period (C+F; min) scales with body mass according to the equation, C+F = 26.6Mb0.20±0.25, and open phase duration (O; min) scales with body mass according to the equation, O = 13.3Mb0.23±0.18. Hypoxia results in a shorter closed phase and longer open phase across all life stages, whereas hyperoxia elicits a shorter closed, closed+flutter, and open phase across all life stages. The tendency for larger locusts to exhibit both a longer closed, and closed+flutter period, might arise if the positive allometric scaling of locust tracheal volume prolongs the time taken to reach the minimum O2 and maximum CO2 set-points that determine the duration of these respective periods, whereas an increasingly protracted open phase could reflect the additional time required for larger locusts to expel CO2 through a relatively longer tracheal pathway. Observed changes in phase duration under hypoxia possibly serve to maximise O2 uptake from the environment, while the response of the DGC to hyperoxia is difficult to explain, but could be affected by elevated levels of reactive oxygen species.
SplicerEX: A tool for the automated detection and classification of mRNA changes from conventional and splice-sensitive microarray expression data
Authors: Robinson Timothy J. , Forte Eleonora , Salinas Raul E. , Puri Shaan , Marengo Matthew , Garcia-Blanco Mariano A. , Luftig Micah A.
Published: June 2012

The key postulate that one gene encodes one protein has been overhauled with the discovery that one gene can generate multiple RNA transcripts through alternative mRNA processing. In this study, we describe SplicerEX, a novel and uniquely motivated algorithm designed for experimental biologists that (1) detects widespread changes in mRNA isoforms from both conventional and splice sensitive microarray data, (2) automatically categorizes mechanistic changes in mRNA processing, and (3) mitigates known technological artifacts of exon array-based detection of alternative splicing resulting from 5′ and 3′ signal attenuation, background detection limits, and saturation of probe set signal intensity. In this study, we used SplicerEX to compare conventional and exon-based Affymetrix microarray data in a model of EBV transformation of primary human B cells. We demonstrated superior detection of 3′-located changes in mRNA processing by the Affymetrix U133 GeneChip relative to the Human Exon Array. SplicerEX-identified exon-level changes in the EBV infection model were confirmed by RT-PCR and revealed a novel set of EBV-regulated mRNA isoform changes in caspases 6, 7, and 8. Finally, SplicerEX as compared with MiDAS analysis of publicly available microarray data provided more efficiently categorized mRNA isoform changes with a significantly higher proportion of hits supported by previously annotated alternative processing events. Therefore, SplicerEX provides an important tool for the biologist interested in studying changes in mRNA isoform usage from conventional or splice-sensitive microarray platforms, especially considering the expansive amount of archival microarray data generated over the past decade. SplicerEX is freely available upon request.
User Satisfaction with Information Technology Service Delivery: A Social Capital Perspective
Authors: Sun Yongqiang , Fang Yulin , Lim Kai H. , Straub Detmar
Published: June 2012

Existing research has long considered service quality as a primary determinant of user satisfaction with information technology (IT) service delivery. In response to the knowledge-intensive and collaborative nature of IT service delivery in the contemporary business context, we advance the theoretical understanding of user satisfaction by re-conceptualizing IT service delivery as a bilateral, relational process between the IT staff and users. Based on this reconceptualization, we draw on social capital theory to examine the antecedents of user satisfaction with IT service delivery. Specifically, we posit that two major dimensions of social capital, i.e., cognitive capital and relational capital, not only positively affect user satisfaction but also strengthen the established relationship between service quality and user satisfaction. Furthermore, we propose that the effect of the other dimension of social capital—structural capital—on user satisfaction is fully mediated through cognitive capital and relational capital. A field study of 159 users in four financial companies provides general empirical support for our hypotheses. Theoretical and practical implications of these findings are discussed.
Editorial Column—Service Research Integration and Future Directions—The Naples Forum on Service
Authors: Badinelli Ralph D. , Polese Francesco , Mele Cristina
Published: June 2012

Management and marketing research in service is at a turning point, and service research is increasingly challenging existing marketing myths and questioning the validity of traditional approaches. In this mainframe, service-dominant (S-D) logic and service science, along with many-to-many marketing and the viable systems approach, have captured the attention of researchers worldwide in their attempt to advance service research. With S-D logic tracing a new cultural approach to market exchange, systems and network theory represents a set of general interpretation schemes—as insightful metamodels—to be coupled with specific theoretical models in order to better understand the complexity characterizing service science. In this light, it seems unwise to search for the “best model” or the best theoretical proposal capable of framing all marketing or management problems. More appropriately, we are convinced that researchers should try to valorize the integration of scientific approaches positioned at different theoretical levels. Despite the challenge of integrating various cultures, models, approaches, and perspectives, we sense that there is a gradual convergence toward a holistic framework in management and marketing research.
Structure and Dynamics of a “T-Shaped” Knowledge: From Individuals to Cooperating Communities of Practice
Authors: Barile Sergio , Franco Giacomo , Nota Giancarlo , Saviano Marialuisa
Published: June 2012

In a fast-changing environment, organizations face conditions of growing complexity that challenge decision-making and innovation activities, highlighting an increasing need to develop dynamic capabilities. In this scenario, our focus is on service science's recent call for “T-shaped professionals,” identified as people possessing both functional/disciplinary expertise and ability to apply knowledge across different contexts. Starting from this notion and by adopting a viable systems approach (vSa), we shift focus from individuals to organizations, providing an interpretation of the structure and dynamics of a “T-shaped knowledge” to be developed with respect to a distributed knowledge management network in which organizations pursue learning-by-interaction and knowledge cocreation.

By integrating the vSa and the distributed knowledge management framework (DKMF), our proposal provides a multidimensional vSa-DKMF metamodel to assess the relational conditions among cooperating organizations as well as to provide guidelines for the construction of a knowledge network built on the idea of T-shaped knowledge. To illustrate the practical aspects of vSa-DKMF, we focus on the case of open communities of practice as an emblematic example of developing a T-shaped knowledge starting from a specialized (“I-shaped”) knowledge.
Contrast ureteropyelography in theatre: standardised flowchart reporting
Authors: Harris MA , Marsh T , Llewellyn A , West A , Naisby G , Gowda BDR
Published: June 2012

INTRODUCTION

Urologists perform retrograde contrast studies of the ureters and pelvicalyceal systems in the operating theatre, both for diagnostic purposes and to guide instrumentation. We describe the development of a set of guidelines that aim to standardise the diagnostic quality of these studies and to reduce radiation dose to the patient and theatre staff. The guidelines incorporate a reporting template that allows a urologist’s written report to be made available on the picture archiving and communication system (PACS) for subsequent multidisciplinary review.

METHODS

Three cycles of audit were conducted to assess the implementation of the guidelines. An independent reviewer rated image quality and screening times. During the audit cycle, the presentation of the guidelines was honed. The end product is a flowchart and reporting template for use by urologists in the operating theatre.

RESULTS

Phase 1 of the audit included 63 studies, phase 2 included 42 studies and phase 3 included 46 studies. The results demonstrate significant improvements in the number of good quality studies and in the recording of control, contrast and post-procedure images. The mean screening time decreased from 5.0 minutes in phase 1 to 3.2 minutes in phase 3. In phase 3, when in-theatre reporting of the studies by the urologist was added, the handwritten report was scanned in and made available on PACS in 43 of 46 cases (93%).

CONCLUSIONS

Introduction of guidelines improved retrograde contrast study quality and reduced screening times. A system has been developed to store appropriate pictures and a urologist’s report of the study on PACS.
Safety trial of Floseal® haemostatic agent in head and neck surgery
Authors: Ujam A , Awad Z , Wong G , Tatla T , Farrell R
Published: June 2012

INTRODUCTION

Floseal® (Baxter, Hayward, CA, US) can be of value in reducing blood loss and haematoma rates. The manufacturer’s warnings include allergic reaction, poor wound healing and intravascular thrombosis. We aimed to determine whether Floseal® is safe to use in various head and neck surgery (HNS) procedures.

METHODS

A prospective trial was conducted using Floseal® in 42 various consecutive head and neck surgery procedures. Adverse incidents were used as the main outcome measure, including allergic reaction, wound breakdown, wound infection and thrombosis. Secondary outcome measures included haematoma formation, hospital stay, drain times and output.

RESULTS

No adverse incidents were recorded in the trial period. Two patients developed haematomas and required surgical exploration where a bleeding vessel was identified and dealt with.

CONCLUSIONS

Floseal® is safe to be used in head and neck surgery with no adverse effects. A larger number and a control group are required to ascertain its value in reducing blood loss, haematoma formation, drain usage and hospital stay.
Trial of ligation versus coagulation of lymphatics in dynamic inguinal sentinel lymph node biopsy for staging of squamous cell carcinoma of the penis
Authors: La-Touche S , Ayres B , Lam W , Alnajjar H , Perry M , Watkin N
Published: June 2012

INTRODUCTION

Te principal advantage of dynamic sentinel lymph node biopsy (DSNB) over modified inguinal node dissection is the lower complication rate. The aim of this study was to identify factors associated with short-term complications of DSNB in order to lower morbidity of the procedure.

METHODS

Retrospective and prospective cohort studies were performed on patients undergoing DSNB between April 2005 and March 2010. Patients were categorised into three groups of 50 (from a total of 250 patients on the database). The patients of Group A, on whom ligaclips were the lymphovascular control technique, were compared with those of Group B, in whom diathermy was used. Incision length, operative time, number of nodes removed, antibiotics and co-morbidities were recorded. A prospective study on Group C, using ligaclips, was also performed.

RESULTS

Groups A (88 groins), B (75 groins) and C (68 groins) were explored with complication rates of 5.7%, 24.0% (p=0.0018) and 8.8% (p=0.0277). Co-morbidities, antibiotics (co-amoxiclav 1.2g intravenous as per protocol) and the mean number of nodes removed were similar in all groups. The mean incision length was 4.1cm (standard deviation [SD]: 1.0cm) for Group A, 5.6cm (SD: 1.0cm) for Group B (p=0.0001) and 5.6cm (SD: 0.8cm) for Group C (p=0.979). The mean operative times for Groups A, B and C were 15.8 (SD: 8.1), 19.3 (SD: 7.4) (p=0.0043) and 22.1 (SD: 7.7) (p=0.0301) minutes respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

Lymphovascular control with diathermy is associated with a statistically higher short-term complication rate compared with ligaclip usage (ie ‘permanent’ ligation). Lymphocoeles are the principal complication and can result in delayed wound infection and breakdown. A small but statistical increase in operative time and wound length is likely to be related to registrar training.
Clerically Delivered Triage of Colorectal Referrals: Does it Work?
Authors: Raghavendra G , Chitsabesan P , Waydia S , Bradburn M , Mills S
Published: June 2012

Cancer of the large bowel remains a major health problem and among all cancers it ranks third in incidence (39,991 new cases in 2008) and second in mortality (16,259 deaths in 2008. In 2000 the Department of Health published the NHS Cancer Plan, which presented the government's strategy for investment and reform across the NHS. This gave cancer services high priority and set mandatory targets for urgent referral and management of patients with suspected colorectal cancer (CRC). These targets required all patients referred by their GPs to be reviewed by a hospital specialist within two weeks and that the time from referral to the first treatment must not exceed 62 days.
Youtube™ as a Source of Information About Primary Bone Tumours
Authors: Campbell N , Ogilvie S , Gerrand C
Published: June 2012

The internet is now one of the most popular and easily available sources of public health information, especially for teens and young adults. YouTube™ has over 2 billion views per day and 24 hours of video uploaded per minute. It should therefore be regarded as an important source of health information with the advantages of low-cost, rapid transmission through a wide community and user interaction. however, as with many internet sites, the content on YouTube™ is not peer reviewed and there is a lack of source citation. There is therefore a risk of disseminating misleading information as registered users can post any content they choose.
Saints and Sinner: Hamilton Bailey
Authors: Marston Adrian
Published: June 2012

Modern surgery is so much a matter of teamwork that the concept of the great surgeon is now almost obsolete. It was different 50 years ago, when action in the operating theatre revolved around the major figure who undertook all responsibility and received all the glamour. The most famous surgeons were not always the most technically accomplished, however – it was often a matter of a dominant personality rather than gifted hands. hamilton Bailey was perceived as a great surgeon although he was not particularly skilful. his fame rests on his original ideas, his qualities as a teacher and, above all, on his textbooks which although constantly rewritten and updated still bear his name and are sold worldwide. of all those who have written about surgery, hamilton Bailey is still, by far, the most widely read.
Oh, what a safari
Authors: Ladwa Russ
Published: June 2012

The word 'safari' has come into English from the Swahili word meaning 'journey'. I wish to share with you my own amazing journey from a small farming town in the riftValley (Nakuru, the town famous for its pink flamingos) in Kenya to Lincoln's Inn fields in London.
Trusts cut down on operations of 'limited clinical value'
Authors: Bennett Katie
Published: June 2012

In April the Daily Telegraph reported that the widespread rationing of tonsillectomies had resulted in a 40% rise in emergency admissions in the past decade. Ear, nose and throat surgeons, who have supported us in dealing with the increased media interest in the rationing of elective operations, agree that this is just part of a much larger problem. It is known that some trusts have drawn up a list of procedures deemed to be of 'limited clinical value' or 'low priority' against clinical guidance – these include hip and knee replacements, grommets, cochlear implants and elective hernia surgery.
The future of dentistry
Authors: Wilson Nairn , Woolford Mark
Published: June 2012

The challenge this paper seeks to address is to look beyond the immediate and medium-term issues facing dental education and training in the next 10 years1 and to scope anticipated trends and changes to be considered in longer term strategic planning for dental workforce development. Despite its limitations (and flaws), future scoping is important, especially when considering investment in infrastructure and succession-planning, which involves programmes of training and development extending over many years. Of course, the further into the future one goes, the greater the risk of unforeseen developments and events that can adversely affect the predictions; the vision articulated in this paper must therefore be interpreted with caution.

Welcome to the world of tomorrow…
National recruitment bandwagon: is it time for dentistry to climb on board?
Authors: Cook Paul
Published: June 2012

More than 95% of recruitment into postgraduate medical training (at foundation and specialty level) is undertaken using national recruitment processes. The purpose of this article is to give the background behind the decision for dentistry to adopt this approach and describe what a pilot national recruitment process for specialty training in dentistry might look like.
When an organisation fails: lessons from Stafford and beyond
Authors: Idle Matthew , Speculand Bernard
Published: June 2012

As we await the results of the Mid Staffordshire NHS Foundation Trust Public Inquiry,1 this article explores the similarities between the failures of care at Mid Staffs and the collapse of Lehman Brothers bank in the US. Both attracted considerable scrutiny and opprobrium from government, regulators and the public. In each case many of their shortcomings were caused by a combination of management culture, lack of accountability and poor understanding (and assessment) of risk. Above all, and in the most basic terms, they seemed to have been ignorant of (or wilfully ignored) the consequences their actions would have on the well-being of the people for whom they were responsible.
Recognising skin cancers in the dental patient
Authors: Newlands Carrie
Published: June 2012

Skin cancer is increasing in incidence and the face is the commonest site for skin cancers to occur. Patients who are at risk from skin cancers include those who have fair skin and who have had long-term exposure to sunshine.1 While facial skin cancers are more common in the older population, greater numbers of younger people are developing these cancers.2-4 Facial skin lesions are common. This article aims to help members of the dental team recognise the features of those lesions which may indicate malignancy or pre-malignancy.
Development of a Near-Infrared/Mid-Infrared Dual-Region Spectrometer for Online Process Analysis
Authors: Genkawa Takuma , Watari Masahiro , Nishii Takashi , Ozaki Yukihiro
Published: June 2012

A near-infrared (NIR) and mid-infrared (mid-IR) dual-region spectrometer having two immersion probes, a transmission probe for NIR, and an attenuated total reflection (ATR) probe for mid-IR has been developed for highly reliable process monitoring and deep process understanding. This spectrometer facilitates sequential acquisition of both NIR (10 000–4000 cm−1) and mid-IR (5000–1200 cm−1) spectra by switching the light path leading to the probes without the need for probe replacement. The use of a single light source and a single beam splitter enables achievement of a permanent alignment of the optical system and sequential data acquisition. The transmission NIR and ATR mid-IR probes designed and developed in the present study facilitate the acquisition of NIR/mid-IR spectra with optimized absorption intensities in both regions by simply placing the probes into a sample solution. The performance of the developed spectrometer was demonstrated in monitoring the ethanol fermentation process. NIR/mid-IR spectra of the fermentation solution with multiplicative scatter correction (MSC) represent the relative changes in the concentrations of glucose and ethanol in both regions. Principal component analysis (PCA) was performed on the MSC-treated spectra in the regions 6300–5650 cm−1, 4850–4300 cm−1, and 3500–2880 cm−1 to detect the end-point of the fermentation as an example of process monitoring. For all the regions, the score plot of the first principal component (PC) indicates that the fermentation progresses with the fermentation time and stops after 210 minutes and thus the end-point of the fermentation exists at around 210 minutes. The loading plot indicates that all of the first PCs are the relative changes in the concentrations of glucose and ethanol. This result reveals that the same chemical changes are observed in both transmission NIR and ATR mid-IR spectra. Multiple and simultaneous analysis was also performed, and intensity change in light scattering relating the growth of yeasts was monitored by the NIR spectra.
A Small-Window Moving Average-Based Fully Automated Baseline Estimation Method for Raman Spectra
Authors: Schulze H. Georg , Foist Rod B. , Okuda Kadek , Ivanov André , Turner Robin F. B.
Published: June 2012

A fully automated and model-free baseline-correction method for vibrational spectra is presented. It iteratively applies a small, but increasing, moving average window in conjunction with peak stripping to estimate spectral baselines. Peak stripping causes the area stripped from the spectrum to initially increase and then diminish as peak stripping proceeds to completion; a subsequent increase is generally indicative of the commencement of baseline stripping. Consequently, this local minimum is used as a stopping criterion. A backup is provided by a second stopping criterion based on the area under a third-order polynomial fitted to the first derivative of the current estimate of the baseline-free spectrum and also indicates whether baseline is being stripped. When the second stopping criterion is triggered instead of the first one, a proportionally scaled simulated Gaussian baseline is added to the current estimate of the baseline-free spectrum to act as an internal standard to facilitate subsequent processing and termination via the first stopping criterion. The method is conceptually simple, easy to implement, and fully automated. Good and consistent results were obtained on simulated and real Raman spectra, making it suitable for the fully automated baseline correction of large numbers of spectra.
Roughened Glass Slides and a Spectrophotometer for the Detection of the Wavelength-Dependent Refractive Index of Transparent Liquids
Authors: Niskanen Ilpo , Räty Jukka , Myllylä Risto , Sutinen Veijo , Matsuda Kiyofumi , Homma Kazuhiro , Silfsten Pertti , Peiponen Kai-Erik
Published: June 2012

We describe a method to determine the wavelength-dependent refractive index of liquids by measurement of light transmittance with a spectrophotometer. The method is based on using roughened glass slides with different a priori known refractive indices and immersing the slides into the transparent liquid with unknown refractive index. Using the dispersion data on the glass material it is possible to find the index match between the liquid and the glass slide, and hence the refractive index of the liquid.
Creativity, chance and the role of the unconscious in the creation of original literature and art
Authors: Harle Rob
Published: June 2012

This article discusses inspiration, chance and the role of the unconscious mind in the creation of literature and art. Neurophysiological factors are considered, especially the aminergic – cholinergic brain chemistry system and how this relates to inspiration and original creativity.
Surrealist poetry, computer-generated poetry and the Oulipo project are analysed to provide practical examples. Chance is discussed in some detail, as this phenomenon is a vital, though often overlooked, component in all creative endeavours. Though the article concentrates on the role of the
unconscious mind in the production of creative literature, the processes discussed are equally applicable to all forms of creativity.
An iterative method for a two-dimensional inverse scattering problem for a dielectric
Authors: Altundag Ahmet , Kress Rainer
Published: June 2012

The inverse problem under consideration is to reconstruct the
shape of a homogeneous dielectric infinite cylinder from the far field
pattern for scattering of a time-harmonic E-polarized electromagnetic
plane wave. We propose
an inverse algorithm that extends the approach suggested and investigated
by Kress and Rundell for the electrostatic case and by Ivanyshyn and Kress
for the time-harmonic case when the scattering object is a perfect conductor. It is based on a system of nonlinear boundary integral equations associated with a single-layer
potential approach to solve the forward scattering problem. We present the mathematical foundations of the method and exhibit its feasibility by numerical examples.
Laboratory Evaluation of Warm Mix Asphalt Influence on Theoretical Maximum Specific Gravity
Authors: Yu Jianhua , Williams R. Christopher , Buss Ashley F.
Published: June 2012

Warm mix asphalt (WMA) technology provides sufficient workability for asphalt mixtures at reduced mixing and compaction temperatures. Depending on the WMA technology, the typical temperature reduction range is 20 °C to 55 °C below hot mix asphalt (HMA) production temperatures. WMA involves chemical and wax additives that are added to an asphalt binder or incorporated through the use of foaming technology. The main advantages of WMA are reduced emissions and a reduction in combustible fuel consumption. Ongoing WMA research projects have documented some differences between HMA and WMA mixes, prompting numerous research projects that are investigating these concerns. The purpose of this research is to evaluate the volumetric properties by directly comparing laboratory produced WMA and HMA mixes. This study investigates the impact of WMA additives on the volumetric properties, specifically, the theoretical maximum specific gravity (Gmm). The Gmm testing followed the procedure of ASTM D2041. Two mix designs with HMA binder were produced, one without recycled asphalt pavement (RAP) and the other with 30 % RAP. After the mix designs were completed, no additional changes were made to account for the addition of the WMA technology. The mixes included the WMA technologies Sasobit and Advera, as well as an HMA control, for a total of six different laboratory produced mixes. Each mix was produced at 120 °C, 135 °C, and 150 °C, and each mix was oven cured for 1, 2, and 4 h. The test results were analyzed using statistical principles to determine whether differences in the Gmm values were statistically significant. The results show that temperature has little impact on Gmm. Gmm was not affected by curing times of 1 and 2 h, but the longer curing time of 4 h resulted in a statistically significant increase in Gmm. Further analysis revealed that the mix sensitivity to curing time depends on the amount of RAP in the mix. For the mix designs studied, the Advera Gmm values were similar to the HMA values, but the Sasobit Gmm values were statistically lower than the Advera values.
Comparative Analysis of Brake Data of Vehicles on Two Different Ministry of Transport Brake Roller Testers
Authors: Senabre C. , Velasco E. , Valero S.
Published: June 2012

The research described herein was carried out by the mechanical engineering staff at the mechanical laboratory of Miguel Hernández University (UMH) in Elche, Spain. This study compares the braking of a vehicle on two different Ministry of Transport (MOT) brake testers. We have analyzed mathematical formulas about braking on MOT brake testers, and we indicate which factors could have a theoretical influence in braking on a rolling road. If the tire pressure is varied, false results might be obtained from the brake tester, meaning that if tires are inflated at a low pressure, the vehicle will not pass the MOT brake test even if the brakes are in good condition. Conversely, if the brakes are in bad condition but the tire pressure is higher than that recommended by the manufacturer, a false passing rating might be produced. This article attempts to show that the MOT brake testing equipment is often wrong and inexact, and it provides data and graphs to prove that tire pressure can be a determining factor when assessing the condition of brakes. We also study the influence of the wheel base between rollers in brake and slip data measurements. A car is placed on a bank of rollers with the handbrake released; the rollers then move at a constant speed of 5 km/h, and the brake pedal is depressed until 100 % slippage is obtained. A velocity of 5 km/h is sufficient to obtain 100 % slippage. The pressure in the hydraulic brake circuit on the right front wheel of the vehicle is also measured with a hydraulic sensor in the hydraulic pipe of the right front wheel. We can obtain the slippage by measuring the angular velocity of the wheel and the roller. The angular velocity is determined by two encoders, the first fitted on the brake roller tester and the second on the wheel of the vehicle. At UMH we have one MOT brake roller tester with a 450 mm distance between each roller where we have measured brake and slip. We also compare the results with those from another MOT station at which the roller tester has only 410 mm between the rollers and analyze the difference. This article demonstrates that the MOT brake and slide data results depend on the distance between rollers, the tire type, and the pneumatic pressure. Data and graphs are provided to substantiate the findings.
Spindle assembly checkpoint-related meiotic defect in oocytes from LT/Sv mice has cytoplasmic origin and diminishes in older females
Authors: Hoffmann Steffen , Król Marzena , Polanski Zbigniew
Published: June 2012

The spindle assembly checkpoint (SAC) ensures proper segregation of chromosomes by delaying anaphase onset until all kinetochores are properly attached to the spindle microtubules. Oocytes from the mouse strain LT/Sv arrest at the first meiotic metaphase (MI) due to, as reported recently, enormously prolonged activity of the SAC. We compared the dynamics of cyclin B1–GFP degradation, the process which is a measure of the SAC activity, in chromosomal and achromosomal halves of LT/Sv oocytes. In chromosome-containing oocyte halves arrested at MI, cyclin B1–GFP was not degraded indicating active SAC. However, in the halves lacking chromosomes, which is a condition precluding the SAC function, degradation always occurred confirming that MI arrest in LT/Sv oocytes is SAC dependent. Transferring the germinal vesicle (GV) from LT/Sv oocytes into the enucleated oocytes from wild-type mice resulted in the progression through meiosis one, indicating that a SAC-activating defect in LT/Sv oocytes is cytoplasmic, yet can be rescued by foreign cytoplasm. These results may help to define the etiology of the human infertility related to the oocyte MI arrest, indicating the involvement of the SAC as likely candidate, and point to GV transfer as the possible therapy. Finally, we found that majority of oocytes isolated from old LT/Sv mice complete the first meiosis. Reciprocal transfers of the GV between the oocytes from young and old LT/Sv females suggest that the factor(s) responsible for the reversal of the phenotype in oocytes from old mice is located both in the GV and in the cytoplasm.
A Population-Based Study of Stimulant Drug Treatment of ADHD and Academic Progress in Children
Authors: Zoëga Helga , Rothman Kenneth J. , Huybrechts Krista F. , Ólafsson Örn , Baldursson Gísli , Almarsdóttir Anna B. , Jónsdóttir Sólveig , Halldórsson Matthías , Hernández-Diaz Sonia , Valdimarsdóttir Unnur A.
Published: June 2012

OBJECTIVE:

We evaluated the hypothesis that later start of stimulant treatment of attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder adversely affects academic progress in mathematics and language arts among 9- to 12-year-old children.

METHODS:

We linked nationwide data from the Icelandic Medicines Registry and the Database of National Scholastic Examinations. The study population comprised 11 872 children born in 1994–1996 who took standardized tests in both fourth and seventh grade. We estimated the probability of academic decline (drop of ≥5.0 percentile points) according to drug exposure and timing of treatment start between examinations. To limit confounding by indication, we concentrated on children who started treatment either early or later, but at some point between fourth-grade and seventh-grade standardized tests.

RESULTS:

In contrast with nonmedicated children, children starting stimulant treatment between their fourth- and seventh-grade tests were more likely to decline in test performance. The crude probability of academic decline was 72.9% in mathematics and 42.9% in language arts for children with a treatment start 25 to 36 months after the fourth-grade test. Compared with those starting treatment earlier (≤12 months after tests), the multivariable adjusted risk ratio (RR) for decline was 1.7 (95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.2–2.4) in mathematics and 1.1 (95% CI: 0.7–1.8) in language arts. The adjusted RR of mathematics decline with later treatment was higher among girls (RR, 2.7; 95% CI: 1.2–6.0) than boys (RR, 1.4; 95% CI: 0.9–2.0).

CONCLUSIONS:

Later start of stimulant drug treatment of attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder is associated with academic decline in mathematics.
Hungarian diet and nutritional status survey – The OTAP2009 study I. Nutritional status of the Hungarian population
Authors: Martos Éva , Kovács Viktória Anna , Bakacs Márta , Kaposvári Csilla , Lugasi Andrea
Published: June 2012

Obesity is a leading public health problem, but representative data on measured prevalence among Hungarian adults has been missing since the late eighties. Aim and method: Joining in European Health Interview Survey the aim of the OTAP2009 study was to provide data representative by age and gender on the prevalence of obesity and abdominal obesity among Hungarian adults based on their measured anthropometric data. Results: Participation rate was 35% (n = 1165). Data shows that nearly two-thirds of adults are overweight or obese. 26.2% of men and 30.4% of women are obese. Prevalence of morbid obesity is 3.1% and 2.6% in men and women, respectively. Abdominal obesity is more prevalent among women than men (51.0% vs. 33.2%), and rate is increasing parallel with age in both gender. In elderly, 55% of men and almost 80% of women are abdominally obese. Conclusions: Besides interventions of population level for tackling obesity, individual preventive measures are indispensable. Orv. Hetil., 2012, 153, 1023–1030.
Estágio de neonatologia na graduação de enfermagem: enfrentamentos e desafios num contexto de mudanças
Authors: Gesteira Elaine Rodrigues , Goldenberg Paulete
Published: June 2012

Este trabalho objetivou analisar o diagnóstico situacional do estágio de Enfermagem na área de Neonatologia em distintas instituições de ensino superior na cidade de São Paulo, a fim de identificar os desafios em relação às novas exigências educacionais. A pesquisa, de cunho exploratório e com abordagem qualitativa, envolveu a caracterização do estágio no plano institucional e seu dimensionamento na perspectiva dos alunos. Conforme apontam os resultados, junto à programação convencional, ter, ou não, campo próprio para o estágio constituiu diferencial significativo no seu desenvolvimento. A formação generalista, na forma como é concebida, coexiste com a aspiração pela especialização. Os alunos reivindicam maior aproximação aos recém-nascidos de alto risco. Conclui-se que há necessidade de repensar essas questões no âmbito da Graduação.
Técnica de incidente crítico e seu uso na Enfermagem: revisão integrativa da literatura
Authors: Ribeiro Luana Cássia Miranda , Souza Adenícia Custódia Silva e , Barreto Regiane Aparecida dos Santos Soares , Neves Heliny Carneiro Cunha , Barbosa Maria Alves
Published: June 2012

Revisão integrativa da literatura realizada nas bases de dados LILACS, MEDLINE e SciELO no período de 2000 a 2010, com os objetivos de sintetizar o conhecimento produzido nas pesquisas em enfermagem que utilizaram a técnica de incidente crítico e identificar o uso e a aplicabilidade dessa técnica como referencial metodológico. Os achados perfizeram um total de dezessete artigos científicos e demonstraram que o Brasil se destacou com 76,5% de publicações. A análise e categorização, segundo os três elementos da técnica, ocorreram em 76,0% dos artigos. A categoria "análise de iatrogenias" provocadas pelos profissionais de saúde se destacou quanto à utilização da técnica de incidente crítico. A revisão integrativa possibilitou a construção de uma síntese do conhecimento científico sobre essa técnica, além de demonstrar sua ampla contribuição para a melhoria da assistência de enfermagem e de saúde.
Experience with an internet-based course for ophthalmology residents
Authors: Carvalho Keila Monteiro de , Iyeyasu Josie Naomi , Castro Stella Maris da Costa e , Monteiro Gelse Beatriz Martins , Zimmermann Anita
Published: June 2012

OBJECTIVE: To describe the first experience of an Internet-based course for ophthalmology residents. METHOD: Twenty-three residents were invited to participate in the study; however, only 13 (56.52%) took part, performing the proposed activities and answering a questionnaire. RESULTS: Of the 13 participants, only five (38.46%) completed 100% of the tasks, three (23.07%) completed between 70 and 90%, two (15.38%) completed between 50 and 60% and three (23.07%) completed less than 10% of the tasks. Regarding the use of computers and the Internet in general, all the participants reported using the Internet daily. All of them also affirmed they use the internet to study or to conduct research. CONCLUSION: Despite the advantages of the Internet, medical residents are still very reluctant to its use. Considering the context of information and communication technologies, there is a pressing need to reformulate continuing medical education in order to meet the demand of this new developing world.
Estudo sobre a avaliação aplicada no internato em clínica médica da Unisul
Authors: Sousa Ana Paula de , Heinisch Roberto Henrique
Published: June 2012

INTRODUÇÃO: O internato médico compreende o período do curso de graduação em Medicina em que o educando recebe preparação para a prática médica. A avaliação contribui para a aquisição da competência clínica e, consequentemente, prepara o educando para a prática médica. OBJETIVOS: Estudar os métodos de avaliação discente no internato em Clínica Médica do curso de graduação em Medicina da Universidade do Sul de Santa Catarina (Unisul), campus Tubarão, por meio da análise da percepção de discentes e docentes envolvidos neste estágio do curso. MÉTODOS: Participaram da pesquisa 44 internos e 15 docentes do semestre letivo 2009/2. RESULTADOS: Os sujeitos da pesquisa percebem a existência e a necessidade de avaliação no internato, têm conhecimento das estratégias e itens utilizados no processo avaliativo e entendem que nesse processo são empregados métodos com medidas objetivas e subjetivas, com abordagens qualitativas e quantitativas. CONCLUSÕES: Sugere-se maior ênfase em conteúdo prático e capacitação docente, aliadas a uma lista de verificação ao final do estágio.
Burnout e pensamentos suicidas em médicos residentes de hospital universitário
Authors: Soares Leonardo Ribeiro , Lopes Thalles Melo de Oliveira , Silva Marco Aurélio Oliveira , Ribeiro Marcos Vinícius Alves , Almeida Júnior Mozart Pereira de , Silva Rafael Antônio , Alves Ronaldo Figueiredo , Bueno Thiago Guilherme Gonçalves , Salgado Thyago Antonelli , Chen Chen Lee
Published: June 2012

Este estudo objetivou descrever e analisar a prevalência de burnout e pensamentos suicidas em médicos residentes de um hospital público de Goiânia e verificar se há correlação entre os dois. Foi realizada uma investigação por meio de um estudo analítico-descritivo em corte transversal em 72 residentes através do MBI (Malasch Burnout Inventory) e do questionário de suicídio de Paykel. Este estudo foi aprovado pelo Comitê de Ética em Pesquisa do Hospital das Clínicas da Universidade Federal de Goiás sob o Parecer nº 052/2009. Resultados indicam a prevalência de burnout em 18,05% da amostra. Dentre os 13 sujeitos com manifestação de burnout, 61,53% já apresentaram pensamentos suicidas. Dentre os 42 sujeitos com baixo risco para manifestação de burnout, 28,57% já apresentaram pensamentos suicidas. Evidenciou-se correlação entre burnout e pensamentos suicidas, o que torna preciso elaborar programas de prevenção do burnout. Pesquisas nesta área são necessárias para a compreensão do burnout e sua correlação com pensamentos suicidas e outros distúrbios psiquiátricos.
Dermatologia na atenção primária: um desafio para a formação e prática médica
Authors: Gomes Tatiana Maciel , Moura Anna Tereza Miranda Soares de , Aguiar Adriana Cavalcanti de
Published: June 2012

Mudanças curriculares nos cursos de graduação médica vêm ocorrendo nas últimas décadas a fim de garantir uma formação ampliada e em consonância com as demandas atuais do sistema de saúde brasileiro. O ensino de certos componentes do conhecimento clínico ainda é desafiante neste novo cenário, e algumas especialidades, como a Dermatologia, permanecem com pouca integração tanto vertical quanto horizontal ao longo do curso. O aprendizado insuficiente durante a graduação se reflete na atuação clínica, onde o atraso diagnóstico das afecções de pele pode modificar radicalmente a evolução dos pacientes. Essas dificuldades parecem ainda mais evidentes na Atenção Primária, pela alta prevalência de queixas dermatológicas nestes cenários. A procura por atendimento especializado é elevada e poderia ser minimizada pelo adequado treinamento sobre o tema, abrangendo principalmente as etapas de prevenção e promoção. O presente artigo traz uma reflexão sobre a necessidade de ampliar o diálogo entre serviços, aparelhos formadores e especialistas, oferecendo sugestões com visão integral da formação geral médica, para maior resolutividade das afecções de pele na porta de entrada do sistema de saúde.
Comportamento de diversas plantas daninhas, de ocorrência comum no estado de São Paulo, em relação a duas espécies de nematóides das galhas: segunda parte
Authors: Ferraz L.C.C.B.
Published: June 2012

Estudou-se o comportamento de dez espécies de plantas daninhas, comuns no Estado de São Paulo, quando o solo em que vegetavam foi inoculado com os nematóides das galhas Meloigodyne javanica (raça 4) ou M. javanica. As avaliações foram feitas 50 dias após a inoculação dos parasitos, baseando-se nos números de galhas e ootecas presentes nas raízes e nos valores de altura e de pesos secos da parte aérea e sistemas radiculares das plantas. Em relação às duas espécies de nematóides, comportaram-se como muito resistentes Brachiaria plantaginea, Cenchrus echinatus, Digitaria horizontalis e Elcusine indica. Cássia accidentalis, Cássia tora e Indigofera truxillensis mostraram baixa suscetibilidade enquanto Hyptis lophanta foi moderadamente suscetível. Leonotis nepetaefolia foi altamente suscetível e Echinochloa colonum tolerante aos parasitos.