bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
CRASHWORTHINESS DESIGN FOR HONEYCOMB STRUCTURES UNDER AXIAL DYNAMIC LOADING
Authors: YIN HANFENG , WEN GUILIN , GAN NIANFEI
Published: November 2011

For a honeycomb structure used for absorbing crash energy and protecting the safety of human or instruments, the bigger the specific energy absorption (SEA) is, the more popular it would be when the peak crushing stress (σp) was retained small enough. In order to improve the energy absorption capacity, crashworthiness optimization for honeycomb structures with various cell specifications are studied in this paper. Detailed numerical models are established for those honeycomb structures by using an explicit finite element method code LS-DYNA. The numerical simulation results are then used as the design samples for constructing metamodels. The optimal Latin hypercube design (OLHD) method is employed for the selection of sampling design points in the design space, and the polynomial functions, radial basis functions (RBF), Kriging, multivariate adaptive regression splines (MARS), and support vector regression (SVR) are utilized to formulate the two optimal objectives SEA and σp. It is found that the polynomial function is the most efficient in constructing the crashworthiness metamodels of honeycombs among the above-mentioned methods. Then, the polynomial function models of SEA and σp are chosen as the surrogate models in the crashworthiness optimization. In order to further validate the polynomial function models, the polynomial function models of SEA and σp are compared with the analytical solutions based on Wierzbicki's theory and Kunimoto and Yamada's theory, respectively. An excellent correlation has been established. As such, the multi-objective particle swarm optimization algorithm (MOPSOA) is applied to obtain the Pareto front of SEA with σp of the honeycomb structures with various cell specifications, which has resulted in a range of optimal designs of honeycomb structures by the multi-objective optimization.
Gene expression analysis of whole blood, peripheral blood mononuclear cells, and lymphoblastoid cell lines from the Framingham Heart Study
Authors: Joehanes Roby , Johnson Andrew D. , Barb Jennifer J. , Raghavachari Nalini , Liu Poching , Woodhouse Kimberly A. , O'Donnell Christopher J. , Munson Peter J. , Levy Daniel
Published: November 2011

Despite a growing number of reports of gene expression analysis from blood-derived RNA sources, there have been few systematic comparisons of various RNA sources in transcriptomic analysis or for biomarker discovery in the context of cardiovascular disease (CVD). As a pilot study of the Systems Approach to Biomarker Research (SABRe) in CVD Initiative, this investigation used Affymetrix Exon arrays to characterize gene expression of three blood-derived RNA sources: lymphoblastoid cell lines (LCL), whole blood using PAXgene tubes (PAX), and peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC). Their performance was compared in relation to identifying transcript associations with sex and CVD risk factors, such as age, high-density lipoprotein, and smoking status, and the differential blood cell count. We also identified a set of exons that vary substantially between participants, but consistently in each RNA source. Such exons are thus stable phenotypes of the participant and may potentially become useful fingerprinting biomarkers. In agreement with previous studies, we found that each of the RNA sources is distinct. Unlike PAX and PBMC, LCL gene expression showed little association with the differential blood count. LCL, however, was able to detect two genes related to smoking status. PAX and PBMC identified Y-chromosome probe sets similarly and slightly better than LCL.
A Mathematical and Numerically Integrable Modeling of 3D Object Grasping under Rolling Contacts between Smooth Surfaces
Authors: Arimoto Suguru , Yoshida Morio
Published: November 2011

A computable model of grasping and manipulation of a 3D rigid object with arbitrary smooth surfaces by multiple robot fingers with smooth fingertip surfaces is derived under rolling contact constraints between surfaces. Geometrical conditions of pure rolling contacts are described through the moving‐frame coordinates at each rolling contact point under the postulates: (1) two surfaces share a common single contact point without any mutual penetration and a common tangent plane at the contact point and (2) each path length of running of the contact point on the robot fingertip surface and the object surface is equal. It is shown that a set of Euler‐Lagrange equations of motion of the fingers‐object system can be derived by introducing Lagrange multipliers corresponding to geometric conditions of contacts. A set of 1st‐order differential equations governing rotational motions of each fingertip and the object and updating arc‐length parameters should be accompanied with the Euler‐Lagrange equations. Further more, nonholonomic constraints arising from twisting between the two normal axes to each tangent plane are rewritten into a set of Frenet‐Serre equations with a geometrically given normal curvature and a motion‐induced geodesic curvature.
The Role of Intravenous Immunoglobulin Preparations in the Treatment of Systemic Sclerosis
Authors: Baleva Marta , Nikolov Krasimir
Published: November 2011

Scleroderma is progressive autoimmune disease associated with severe disability. The major underlying pathological process in scleroderma is progressive development of fibrous tissue and obliteration of the microvasculature. Currently, there are no medical products for the treatment of scleroderma that provide both sufficient immunosuppression and low-risk side safety profile with negligible side effects. There are a large number of experimental data showing that intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG) has multiple clinical and morphological effects. On the other hand, some authors report good effect of intravenous immune globulins in patients with scleroderma. The less frequent side effects of IVIG in doses below or equal to 2 g/kg/month divided in 5 consecutive days make IVIG a promising treatment of choice in scleroderma.
Molecular Basis of Triple Negative Breast Cancer and Implications for Therapy
Authors: Peddi Parvin F. , Ellis Matthew J. , Ma Cynthia
Published: November 2011

Triple negative breast cancer is an aggressive form of breast cancer with limited treatment options and is without proven targeted therapy. Understanding the molecular basis of triple negative breast cancer is crucial for effective new drug development. Recent genomewide gene expression and DNA sequencing studies indicate that this cancer type is composed of a molecularly heterogeneous group of diseases that carry multiple somatic mutations and genomic structural changes. These findings have implications for therapeutic target identification and the design of future clinical trials for this aggressive group of breast cancer.
Comprehensive Intravascular Ultrasound Assessment of Stent Area and Its Impact on Restenosis and Adverse Cardiac Events in 403 Patients With Unprotected Left Main Disease
Authors: Kang Soo-Jin , Ahn Jung-Min , Song Haegeun , Kim Won-Jang , Lee Jong-Young , Park Duk-Woo , Yun Sung-Cheol , Lee Seung-Whan , Kim Young-Hak , Lee Cheol Whan , Mintz Gary S. , Park Seong-Wook , Park Seung-Jung
Published: November 2011

Background—

We assessed the optimal intravascular ultrasound (IVUS) stent area to predict angiographic in-stent restenosis (ISR) after sirolimus-eluting stent implantation for unprotected left main coronary artery (LM) disease.

Methods and Results—

A total of 403 patients treated with single- or 2-stent strategies (crushing and T-stent) had immediate poststenting IVUS and 9-month follow-up angiography. Poststenting minimal stent area (MSA) was measured in each of 4 segments: ostial left anterior descending (LAD), ostial left circumflex (LCX) polygon of confluence (POC, confluence zone of LAD and LCX), and proximal LM above the POC. Overall, 46 (11.4%) showed angiographic restenosis at 9 months: 3 of 67 (4.5%) nonbifurcation lesions treated with a single-stent, 14 of 222 (6.3%) bifurcation lesions treated with single-stent crossover, and 29 of 114 (25.4%) of bifurcation lesions treated with 2 stents. The MSA cutoffs that best predicted ISR on a segmental basis were 5.0 mm
2
(ostial LCX ISR), 6.3 mm
2
(ostial LAD ISR), 7.2 mm
2
(ISR within the POC), and 8.2 mm
2
(ISR within the LM above the POC). Using these criteria, 133 (33.8%) had underexpansion of at least 1 segment. Angiographic ISR (at any location) was more frequent in lesions with underexpansion of at least 1 segment versus lesions with no underexpansion (24.1% versus 5.4%,
P
<0.001). Two-year major adverse coronary event–free survival rate was significantly lower in patients with underexpansion of at least 1 segment versus lesions with no underexpansion (90±3% versus 98±1%, log-rank
P
<0.001), and poststenting underexpansion was an independent predictor for major adverse cardiac events (adjusted hazard ratio, 5.56; 95% confidence interval, 1.99–15.49;
P
=0.001).

Conclusions—

With these criteria, IVUS optimization during LMCA stenting procedures may improve clinical outcomes.
Ecological Risk Factors of Childhood Obesity in Korean Elementary School Students
Authors: Kim Bongjeong , Lee Chung Yul , Kim Hee Soon , Ko Il Sun , Park Chang Gi , Kim Gwang Suk
Published: November 2011

The purpose of this study was to examine ecological correlates of obesity among Korean children. Cross-sectional data, including measurements of height and weight, were collected by questionnaire from 1,644 children in the fifth and sixth grades. A multiple logistic regression model incorporating individual- and school-level variables determined factors of childhood obesity. Intrapersonal factors associated with obesity included gender, computer use, and dissatisfaction with body image; significant interpersonal factors included low level of the father’s education and encouragement to engage in physical activity. School-level factors that were significant predictors included location in Gyeonggi province, having two or more school exercise facilities, physical-education classes of 2 hr per week, higher fat content of school lunch, and higher number of classes in the school. The findings indicate that multifaceted, multilevel prevention strategies to manage and prevent childhood obesity should include behavioral modification, familial support, and improvement of school environments.
The Stigma of Being a Long-Term Foster Carer
Authors: Blythe Stacy L. , Jackson Debra , Halcomb Elizabeth J. , Wilkes Lesley
Published: November 2011

Stigma is a powerful social phenomenon with insidious health implications. Understanding stigma as it applies to various populations is imperative for nurses as it enables nurses to enhance individual patient care and nurses are well positioned to influence both social and health care policies which may exacerbate the experience of stigma. This article is a report of a study to explore the experiences of women who provide long-term foster care. Interviews were conducted with 20 women who provided long-term foster care in Australia. Data were coded according to the components of stigma described by Link and Phelan (2001). Findings reveal participants rejected the label of foster carer to avoid the negative stereotype. When unable to conceal their foster carer label, participants experienced social isolation and status loss. Moreover, participants felt marginalized and disempowered within the governing systems.
High levels of psychological distress in MSM are independent of HIV status
Authors: Gibbie Tania M. , Mijch Anne , Hay Margaret
Published: November 2011

This study assessed psychological distress (PD) in men who have sex with men (MSM) accessing primary health clinics in Australia. Relationships between PD, HIV status and substance use were explored. A cross-sectional convenience sample of 250 MSM completed the Personality Assessment Screener (PAS). One-third ( n = 83) scored in the PAS clinically significant range, suggesting significant mental health symptoms. Negative Affect (27 per cent clinically significant), Suicidal Thinking (29 per cent clinically significant) and Amphetamine use significantly positively correlated with PD. There were no significant differences between HIV diagnostic groups on PD. A third of MSM displayed PD. Psychological screening may provide valuable information for improving the psychological well-being of MSM, regardless of their HIV status.
Citrate treatment reduces endothelial death and inflammation under hyperglycaemic conditions
Authors: Bryland Anna , Wieslander Anders , Carlsson Ola , Hellmark Thomas , Godaly Gabriela
Published: November 2011

Hyperglycaemia and glucose degradation products (GDPs) are closely associated with oxidative stress and inflammation in diabetic patients, a condition that leads to endothelial dysfunction and cardiovascular problems. We evaluated the effect of citrate and gluconate on glucose- and GDP-induced endothelial inflammation by measuring changes in viability, inflammation and function in primary human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs). The extent of apoptosis/necrosis was measured by flow cytometry and visualised with confocal microscopy by staining with annexin V or propidium iodide, respectively. Protein kinase C-βII (PKC-βII) activation was evaluated with Western blotting. Incubation with glucose (30 mM) and GDP (50 µM) significantly increased PKC-βII expression, endothelial cell death and inflammation. The addition of citrate decreased hyperglycaemia-induced apoptosis ( p = 0.021), necrosis ( p = 0.04) and reduced PKC-βII expression ( p = 0.021) down to background levels. Citrate improved endothelial function by reducing the inflammatory markers ( p = 0.01) and by decreasing neutrophil diapedesis ( p = 0.012). These results suggest that citrate may have therapeutic potential by reducing hyperglycaemia-induced endothelial inflammation and abolishing endothelial dysfunction.
Variation of mortality after coronary artery bypass surgery in relation to hour, day and month of the procedure
Authors: Coumbe Ann , John Ranjit , Kuskowski Michael , Agirbasli Mehmet , McFalls Edward O , Adabag Selcuk
Published: November 2011

Background

Mortality and complications after percutaneous coronary intervention is higher when performed after regular duty hours due to challenging patient characteristics, inferior processes of care and limited resources. Since these challenges are also encountered during coronary artery bypass graft (CABG) surgery that is performed after regular work hours, we assessed whether hour and day of procedure influenced mortality after CABG.

Methods

We studied 4,714 consecutive patients who underwent CABG at the Minneapolis Veterans Administration (VA) Medical Center between 1987 and 2009. We compared postoperative (30-day) mortality rates in relation to hour and day in which the operation was performed.

Results

Operations performed on weekends and after 4 PM had higher risk patients (p < 0.0001) and were more likely to be emergent (p < 0.0001), require intra-aortic balloon pump support (p < 0.0001) and result in postoperative complications (p < 0.0001) compared to those at regular work hours. Mortality was significantly higher when CABG was performed on weekends compared to weekdays (9.4% versus 2.5%; odds ratio (OR) 4.1, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.6 to 10.4, p = 0.003), and after 4 PM compared to between 7 AM-4 PM (6.2% versus 2.2%; OR 2.9, 95% CI 1 to 8, p = 0.049). In multivariable analysis, when adjusted for the urgency of the operation and the VA estimated mortality risk score, these associations were no longer statistically significant.

Conclusions

Mortality after CABG is higher when surgery is performed on the weekends and after 4 PM. These variations in mortality were related to higher patient risk, and urgency of the operation rather than external factors.
External quality assessment of malaria microscopy in the Democratic Republic of the Congo
Authors: Mukadi Pierre , Gillet Philippe , Lukuka Albert , Atua Ben , Kahodi Simelo , Lokombe Jean , Muyembe Jean-Jacques , Jacobs Jan
Published: November 2011

Background

External quality assessments (EQA) are an alternative to cross-checking of blood slides in the quality control of malaria microscopy. This study reports the findings of an EQA of malaria microscopy in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC).

Methods

After validation, an EQA slide panel and a questionnaire were delivered to diagnostic laboratories in four provinces of DRC. The panel included three samples for diagnosis (sample 1: Plasmodium falciparum, 177,000/μl, sample 2: P. falciparum, 2,500/μl, sample 3: no parasites seen), one didactic sample (Howell-Jolly bodies) and one sample for assessing the quality of staining. Participating laboratories were addressed and selected through the network of the National Tuberculosis Control Programme. Participants were asked to return the responses together with a stained thin and thick blood film for evaluation of Giemsa stain quality.

Results

Among 174 participants (response rate 95.1%), 26.2% scored samples 1, 2 and 3 correctly and 34.3%, 21.5% and 5.8% of participants reported major errors in one, two or three samples respectively. Major errors included reporting "no malaria" or "non-falciparum malaria" for Plasmodium falciparum-positive samples 1 and 2 (16.1% and 34.9% of participants respectively) and "P. falciparum" for Plasmodium negative sample 3 (24.0%). Howell-Jolly bodies (didactic sample) were not recognized by any of the participants but reported as "P. falciparum" by 16.7% of participants. With parasite density expressed according to the "plus system", 16.1% and 21.5% of participants scored one "+" different from the reference score for samples 1 and 2 respectively and 9.7% and 2.9% participants scored more than two "+" different. When expressed as counts of asexual parasites/μl, more than two-thirds of results were outside the mean ± 2SD reference values. The quality of the Giemsa stain was poor, with less than 20% slides complying with all criteria assessed. Only one quarter of participants purchase Giemsa stain from suppliers of documented reliability and half of participants use a buffered staining solution. One third of participants had participated in a formal training about malaria diagnosis, half of them earlier than 2007.

Conclusion

The present EQA revealed a poor quality of malaria microscopy in DRC.
Social support needs for equity in health and social care: a thematic analysis of experiences of people with chronic fatigue syndrome/myalgic encephalomyelitis
Authors: de Carvalho Leite Jose C , de L Drachler Maria , Killett Anne , Kale Swati , Nacul Luis , McArthur Maggie , Hong Chia Swee , O'Driscoll Lucy , Pheby Derek , Campion Peter , Lacerda Eliana , Poland Fiona
Published: November 2011

Background

Needs-based resource allocation is fundamental to equitable care provision, which can meet the often-complex, fluctuating needs of people with Chronic Fatigue Syndrome/Myalgic Encephalomyelitis (CFS/ME). This has posed challenges both for those providing and those seeking support providers, in building shared understanding of the condition and of actions to address it. This qualitative study reports on needs for equity in health and social care expressed by adults living with CFS/ME.

Methods

The participants were 35 adults with CFS/ME in England, purposively selected to provide variation in clinical presentations, social backgrounds and illness experiences. Accounts of experienced needs and needs-related encounters with health and social services were obtained through a focus group (n = 6) and semi-structured interviews (n = 35). These were transcribed and needs related topics identified through data-led thematic analysis.

Findings

Participants emphasised needs for personalised, timely and sustained support to alleviate CFS/ME impacts and regain life control, in three thematic areas: (1) Illness symptoms, functional limitations and illness management; (2) practical support and social care; (3) financial support. Access of people with CFS/ME to support from health and social services was seen to be constrained by barriers stemming from social, cultural, organisational and professional norms and practices, further heightened for disadvantaged groups including some ethnic minorities. These reduced opportunities for their illness to be explained or associated functional limitations and social disadvantages to be addressed through social support. Participants sought more understanding of bio-psycho-social aspects of CFS/ME, of felt needs of people with CFS/ME and of human rights and disability rights, for providing person-centred, equitable care.

Conclusions

Changes in attitudes of health practitioners, policy makers and general public and more flexibly organised health and social care provision are needed to address equity issues in support needs expressed by people with CFS/ME, to be underpinned by research-based knowledge and communication, for public and professional education. Policy development should include shared decision-making and coordinated action across organizations working for people with CFS/ME, human rights and disadvantaged groups. Experiences of people with CFS/ME can usefully inform an understanding of equity in their health and social care.
Enhanced Fatty Acid Flux Triggered by Adiponectin Overexpression
Authors: Shetty Shoba , Ramos-Roman Maria A. , Cho You-Ree , Brown Jonathan , Plutzky Jorge , Muise Eric S. , Horton Jay D. , Scherer Philipp E. , Parks Elizabeth J.
Published: November 2011

Adiponectin overexpression in mice increases insulin sensitivity independent of adiposity. Here, we combined stable isotope infusion and in vivo measurements of lipid flux with transcriptomic analysis to characterize fatty acid metabolism in transgenic mice that overexpress adiponectin via the aP2-promoter (ADNTg). Compared with controls, fasted ADNTg mice demonstrated a 31% reduction in plasma free fatty acid concentrations (P = 0.008), a doubling of ketones (P = 0.028), and a 68% increase in free fatty acid turnover in plasma (15.1 ± 1.5 vs. 25.3 ± 6.8 mg/kg · min, P = 0.011). ADNTg mice had 2-fold more brown adipose tissue mass, and triglyceride synthesis and turnover were 5-fold greater in this organ (P = 0.046). Epididymal white adipose tissue was slightly reduced, possibly due to the approximately 1.5-fold increase in the expression of genes involved in oxidation (peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor α, peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-γ coactivator 1α, and uncoupling protein 3). In ADNTg liver, lipogenic gene expression was reduced, but there was an unexpected increase in the expression of retinoid pathway genes (hepatic retinol binding protein 1 and retinoic acid receptor beta and adipose Cyp26A1) and liver retinyl ester content (64% higher, P < 0.02). Combined, these data support a physiological link between adiponectin signaling and increased efficiency of triglyceride synthesis and hydrolysis, a process that can be controlled by retinoids. Interactions between adiponectin and retinoids may underlie adiponectin's effects on intermediary metabolism.
Excessive activity of cathepsin K is associated with cartilage defects in a zebrafish model of mucolipidosis II
Authors: Petrey Aaron C. , Flanagan-Steet Heather , Johnson Steven , Fan Xiang , De la Rosa Mitche , Haskins Mark E. , Nairn Alison V. , Moremen Kelley W. , Steet Richard
Published: November 2011

The severe pediatric disorder mucolipidosis II (ML-II; also known as I-cell disease) is caused by defects in mannose 6-phosphate (Man-6-P) biosynthesis. Patients with ML-II exhibit multiple developmental defects, including skeletal, craniofacial and joint abnormalities. To date, the molecular mechanisms that underlie these clinical manifestations are poorly understood. Taking advantage of a zebrafish model of ML-II, we previously showed that the cartilage morphogenesis defects in this model are associated with altered chondrocyte differentiation and excessive deposition of type II collagen, indicating that aspects of development that rely on proper extracellular matrix homeostasis are sensitive to decreases in Man-6-P biosynthesis. To further investigate the molecular bases for the cartilage phenotypes, we analyzed the transcript abundance of several genes in chondrocyte-enriched cell populations isolated from wild-type and ML-II zebrafish embryos. Increased levels of cathepsin and matrix metalloproteinase (MMP) transcripts were noted in ML-II cell populations. This increase in transcript abundance corresponded with elevated and sustained activity of several cathepsins (K, L and S) and MMP-13 during early development. Unlike MMP-13, for which higher levels of protein were detected, the sustained activity of cathepsin K at later stages seemed to result from its abnormal processing and activation. Inhibition of cathepsin K activity by pharmacological or genetic means not only reduced the activity of this enzyme but led to a broad reduction in additional protease activity, significant correction of the cartilage morphogenesis phenotype and reduced type II collagen staining in ML-II embryos. Our findings suggest a central role for excessive cathepsin K activity in the developmental aspects of ML-II cartilage pathogenesis and highlight the utility of the zebrafish system to address the biochemical underpinnings of metabolic disease.
Rab35 regulates phagosome formation through recruitment of ACAP2 in macrophages during FcγR-mediated phagocytosis
Authors: Egami Youhei , Fukuda Mitsunori , Araki Nobukazu
Published: November 2011

Phagosome formation and subsequent maturation are complex sequences of events that involve actin cytoskeleton remodeling and membrane trafficking. Here, we demonstrate that the Ras-related protein Rab35 is involved in the early stage of FcγR-mediated phagocytosis in macrophages. Live-cell image analysis revealed that Rab35 was markedly concentrated at the membrane where IgG-opsonized erythrocytes (IgG-Es) are bound. Rab35 silencing by RNA interference (RNAi) or the expression of GDP- or GTP-locked Rab35 mutant drastically reduced the rate of phagocytosis of IgG-Es. Actin-mediated pseudopod extension to form phagocytic cups was disturbed by the Rab35 silencing or the expression of GDP-Rab35, although initial actin assembly at the IgG-E binding sites was not inhibited. Furthermore, GTP-Rab35-dependent recruitment of ACAP2, an ARF6 GTPase-activating protein, was shown in the phagocytic cup formation. Concomitantly, overexpression of ACAP2 along with GTP-locked Rab35 showed a synergistic inhibitory effect on phagocytosis. It is likely that Rab35 regulates actin-dependent phagosome formation by recruiting ACAP2, which might control actin remodeling and membrane traffic through ARF6.
Wobble base-pairing slows in vivo translation elongation in metazoans
Authors: Stadler Michael , Fire Andrew
Published: November 2011

In the universal genetic code, most amino acids can be encoded by multiple trinucleotide codons, and the choice among available codons can influence position-specific translation elongation rates. By using sequence-based ribosome profiling, we obtained transcriptome-wide profiles of in vivo ribosome occupancy as a function of codon identity in Caenorhabditis elegans and human cells. Particularly striking in these profiles was a universal trend of higher ribosome occupancy for codons translated via G:U wobble base-pairing compared with synonymous codons that pair with the same tRNA family using G:C base-pairing. These data support a model in which ribosomal translocation is slowed at wobble codon positions.
Effect of Silicone Maintenance Materials on Asphalt Binders and Mixtures
Authors: Lin Juntao , Chen Meizhu , Wan Lu , Wu and Shaopeng
Published: November 2011

The preventive maintenance of asphalt pavement is of increasing interest to highway agencies and engineers. Many preventive maintenance materials based on emulsified asphalt are used all over the world. The objective of this paper is to investigate the effect of applied silicone maintenance materials (SMMs) on the properties of asphalt and asphalt mixtures in the laboratory. The penetrability and skidding resistance of SMMs on the asphalt mixture and the ultraviolet (UV) radiation aging resistance of SMMs on asphalt are studied by means of a simple penetration test, the British pendulum test, the sand patch test, and a dynamic rheology test. The results show the SMM can permeate into the voids of asphalt mixtures and improve their UV radiation aging resistance. SMM sealer shows a smaller reduction in the skid resistance of the asphalt mixture compared to a modified asphalt emulsion. Furthermore, the rubber powder can be used in an SMM seal on an asphalt mixture to improve its skidding resistance. The result of this study can support the applications of SMMs in the future.
Event-Related Potentials Elicited by Errors during the Stop-Signal Task. I. Macaque Monkeys
Authors: Godlove David C. , Emeric Erik E. , Segovis Courtney M. , Young Michelle S. , Schall Jeffrey D. , Woodman Geoffrey F.
Published: November 2011

The error-related negativity (ERN) and positivity (Pe) are components of event-related potential (ERP) waveforms recorded from humans and are thought to reflect performance monitoring. Error-related signals have also been found in single-neuron responses and local-field potentials recorded in supplementary eye field and anterior cingulate cortex of macaque monkeys. However, the homology of these neural signals across species remains controversial. Here, we show that monkeys exhibit ERN and Pe components when they commit errors during a saccadic stop-signal task. The voltage distributions and current densities of these components were similar to those found in humans performing the same task. Subsequent analyses show that neither stimulus- nor response-related artifacts accounted for the error-ERPs. This demonstration of macaque homologues of the ERN and Pe forms a keystone in the bridge linking human and nonhuman primate studies on the neural basis of performance monitoring.
Rich-Club Organization of the Human Connectome
Authors: van den Heuvel Martijn P. , Sporns Olaf
Published: November 2011

The human brain is a complex network of interlinked regions. Recent studies have demonstrated the existence of a number of highly connected and highly central neocortical hub regions, regions that play a key role in global information integration between different parts of the network. The potential functional importance of these “brain hubs” is underscored by recent studies showing that disturbances of their structural and functional connectivity profile are linked to neuropathology. This study aims to map out both the subcortical and neocortical hubs of the brain and examine their mutual relationship, particularly their structural linkages. Here, we demonstrate that brain hubs form a so-called “rich club,” characterized by a tendency for high-degree nodes to be more densely connected among themselves than nodes of a lower degree, providing important information on the higher-level topology of the brain network. Whole-brain structural networks of 21 subjects were reconstructed using diffusion tensor imaging data. Examining the connectivity profile of these networks revealed a group of 12 strongly interconnected bihemispheric hub regions, comprising the precuneus, superior frontal and superior parietal cortex, as well as the subcortical hippocampus, putamen, and thalamus. Importantly, these hub regions were found to be more densely interconnected than would be expected based solely on their degree, together forming a rich club. We discuss the potential functional implications of the rich-club organization of the human connectome, particularly in light of its role in information integration and in conferring robustness to its structural core.
Crystal structure of Th(IV) perchlorate and U(VI) nitrate complexes with trimethyl phosphate: [Th(OP(OCH
3
)
3
)
4
(O
2
P(OCH
3
)
2
)
2
]
2
[ClO
4
]
4
and [UO
2
(OP(OCH
3
)
3
)(O
2
P(OCH
3)2)(NO3)]
2
Authors: Charushnikova I. A. , Fedosseev A. M. , Den Auwer Christophe , Moisy Philippe
Published: November 2011

Single crystals of [Th(TMP)4(DMP)2]2[ClO4]4 and [UO2(TMP)(DMP)(NO3)]2 have been synthesized and their structures have been determined by X-ray diffraction analysis. The complexes of Th(IV) and U(VI) contain simultaneously both the molecular ligand trimethyl phosphate (TMP) and the anion dimethyl phosphate. The main structural motif in Th(IV) complex is centrosymmetric dimeric cation [Th(TMP)4(DMP)2]
2
4+
, and in U(VI) it is the neutral centrosymmetric dimeric complex [UO2(TMP)(DMP)(NO3)]2. Coordination polyhedron of Th(IV) is tetragonal antiprism, for U(VI) it is pentagonal bipyramid. The structures are compared with those of other Th(IV) and U(VI) complexes containing other trialkyl phosphates.
Electrodeposition of Lithium/Polystyrene Composite Electrodes from an Ionic Liquid: First Attempts
Authors: Prowald Alexandra , Zein El Abedin Sherif , Borisenko Natalia , Endres Frank
Published: November 2011

One challenge in the use of metallic lithium in secondary lithium ion or lithium air batteries is the dendritic growth of lithium upon repeated cycling which might either lead to a short circuit or at least to an uneven current distribution and bad cycling stability. In the present paper we present our first results on the electrodeposition of lithium from an ionic liquid within the voids of a polystyrene opal structure on copper. For this purpose polystyrene spheres with an average diameter of about 600 nm were applied onto a copper sheet by a simple dipping process resulting in a layer thickness of about 10 μm. Lithium can be deposited within this polymer structure without damaging it and the subsequent dissolution of the polystyrene spheres delivers a macroporous lithium film, proving that a mechanically stable composite electrode is feasible.
The diversity of sex steroid action: novel functions of hydroxysteroid (17β) dehydrogenases as revealed by genetically modified mouse models
Authors: Saloniemi Taija , Jokela Heli , Strauss Leena , Pakarinen Pirjo , Poutanen Matti
Published: November 2011

Disturbed action of sex steroid hormones, i.e. androgens and estrogens, is involved in the pathogenesis of various severe diseases in humans. Interestingly, recent studies have provided data further supporting the hypothesis that the circulating hormone concentrations do not explain all physiological and pathological processes observed in hormone-dependent tissues, while the intratissue sex steroid concentrations are determined by the expression of steroid metabolising enzymes in the neighbouring cells (paracrine action) and/or by target cells themselves (intracrine action). This local sex steroid production is also a valuable treatment option for developing novel therapies against hormonal diseases. Hydroxysteroid (17β) dehydrogenases (HSD17Bs) compose a family of 14 enzymes that catalyse the conversion between the low-active 17-keto steroids and the highly active 17β-hydroxy steroids. The enzymes frequently expressed in sex steroid target tissues are, thus, potential drug targets in order to lower the local sex steroid concentrations. The present review summarises the recent data obtained for the role of HSD17B1, HSD17B2, HSD17B7 and HSD17B12 enzymes in various metabolic pathways and their physiological and pathophysiological roles as revealed by the recently generated genetically modified mouse models. Our data, together with that provided by others, show that, in addition to having a role in sex steroid metabolism, several of these HSD17B enzymes possess key roles in other metabolic processes: for example, HD17B7 is essential for cholesterol biosynthesis and HSD17B12 is involved in elongation of fatty acids. Additional studiesin vitroandin vivoare to be carried out in order to fully define the metabolic role of the HSD17B enzymes and to evaluate their value as drug targets.
Evaluation of Microgap Size and Microbial Leakage in the Connection Area of 4 Abutments With Straumann (ITI) Implant
Authors: Rismanchian Mansoor , Hatami Mahnaz , Badrian Hamid , Khalighinejad Navid , Goroohi Hossein
Published: November 2011

A microgap between implant and abutment can lead to mechanical and biological problems such as abutment screw fracture and peri-implantitis. The aim of this study was to evaluate microgap size and microbial leakage in the connection area of 4 different abutments to ITI implants. In this experimental study, 36 abutments in 4 groups (including Cast On, Castable, Solid, and Synocta abutments) connected to Straumann fixtures (with their inner part inoculated with bacterial suspension) and microbial leakage were assessed at different times. The size of the microgap in 4 randomized locations was then measured by scanning electron microscope. The data were analyzed by SPSS software and by 1-way variance statistical test, Kruskal-Wallis, and their supplementary tests (Mann-Whitney HSD and Tukey's; α = .05) at the next step. The effect of using different types of abutments was significant on the mean microgap size (P < .001) and on the mean number of leaked colonies (CFU/mL) through the connection area of the implant and abutment within the first 5 hours of the experiment (P = .012); however, it did not significantly influence microleakage at 24 hours, 48 hours, and 14 days (P = .145). Using Synocta abutments compared with Solid abutments will not provide us with more accommodation, and vice versa. Using Solid and Synocta abutments can significantly decrease the microgap size; however, Cast On abutments do not show a significant difference in terms of microgap compared with Castable abutments. Microleakage in the connection area is comparable for these 4 abutments.
Cultivo de orquídea em substratos à base de casca de café
Authors: Assis Adriane Marinho de , Unemoto Lilian Keiko , Yamamoto Lilian Yukari , Lone Alessandro Borini , Souza Gilberto Rostirolla Batista de , Faria Ricardo Tadeu de , Roberto Sérgio Ruffo , Takahashi Lúcia Sadayo Assari
Published: November 2011

A utilização de resíduos agrícolas como substrato é uma alternativa promissora no cultivo de orquídeas, reduzindo os custos e o acúmulo desses materiais no ambiente. O objetivo do trabalho foi avaliar o desenvolvimento de orquídea híbrida (C. forbesii x C. labiata) x C. labiata em substratos à base de casca de café. O delineamento experimental utilizado foi o inteiramente casualizado, com seis tratamentos (xaxim desfibrado; casca de café; casca de café + coco em pó; casca de café + fibra de coco; casca de café + casca de pinus; casca de café + casca de arroz carbonizada) e dez repetições. Após 24 meses avaliou-se a altura da parte aérea; número de brotos; número de flores; diâmetro do maior pseudobulbo; comprimento da maior raiz e a matéria seca de raízes. Foi efetuada avaliação química, pH, condutividade elétrica, densidade e capacidade de retenção de água dos substratos, exceto a composição química dos substratos à base de coco. Não houve diferença significativa quanto à altura da parte aérea, ao número de flores e à matéria seca de raízes, com 33,0 cm; 1,1 e 3,5g, em média, respectivamente. Com relação à casca de café e as suas misturas, não houve diferença quanto ao comprimento da maior raiz. Quanto ao número de brotos e diâmetro do maior pseudobulbo, a mistura de casca de café com coco em pó mostrou-se superior para essas duas variáveis e a mistura de casca de café com casca de arroz carbonizada propiciou o aumento no número de brotos. A casca de café pode ser utilizada como substrato no cultivo de orquídea híbrida (C. forbesii x C. labiata) x C. labiata, especialmente em mistura com o coco em pó ou a casca de arroz carbonizada, não sendo indicada como substrato único.
Aspectos de imagem na tendinite calcária pré-vertebral
Authors: Grassi Caio Giometti , Diniz Fábio de Vilhena , Garcia Márcio Ricardo Taveira , Gomes Regina Lúcia Elia , Daniel Mauro Miguel , Funari Marcelo Buarque de Gusmão
Published: November 2011

A tendinite calcária aguda pré-vertebral é uma condição benigna e rara que apresenta calcificação das fibras do músculo longo do pescoço com reação inflamatória local, sendo esta uma das formas de apresentação menos frequentes da doença por deposição de hidroxiapatita de cálcio. Manifesta-se com dor cervical aguda e/ou odinofagia, podendo ser erroneamente diagnosticada como abscesso retrofaríngeo, espondilodiscite ou alteração decorrente de trauma. Os achados radiológicos na tendinite calcária pré-vertebral são patognomônicos. O conhecimento de tais achados é muito importante, pois o correto diagnóstico possibilita a resolução precoce dos sintomas e evita intervenções desnecessárias em um paciente que apresenta afecção com boa resposta ao tratamento conservador.
Tumor de células granulares acometendo a órbita em uma criança
Authors: Reis Fabiano , Iyeyasu Josie Naomi , Altemani Albina Messias , Carvalho Keila Monteiro de
Published: November 2011

Os autores relatam um raro caso de tumor de células granulares no músculo reto medial de um menino de sete anos de idade. São descritos os achados clínicos, histológicos e radiológicos do caso, bem como uma breve revisão da literatura.
Liderança situacional em gestão de projetos: uma revisão da literatura
Authors: Gonçalves Helen Silva , Mota Caroline Maria de Miranda
Published: November 2011

O estilo de liderança que deve ser adotado por um gerente de projetos em relação a seus liderados é um assunto enfatizado em pesquisas recentes. Dentre as teorias, a liderança situacional apresentada por Hersey e Blanchard (2007) aborda as maturidades para o trabalho e psicológica como elementos que influenciam o desempenho dos funcionários. A determinação de tal nível permite a utilização de um estilo de liderança mais adequado. Este artigo aborda a necessidade de utilização de uma ferramenta que auxilie de maneira eficiente o gerente de projetos a adotar o estilo de liderança mais adequado à situação e liderados. Para demonstrar o qual difícil pode ser tal atividade, em uma empresa de tecnologia da informação, foi realizada uma pesquisa avaliando o nível de maturidade de seus liderados. Observou-se que para a liderança ser mais efetiva deve dispor de métodos mais estruturados para tal.
EMG BioanalyzerBR para a análise de sinais eletromiográficos na deglutição
Authors: Feodrippe Paulo , Belo Luciana Rodrigues , Coriolano Maria das Graças Wanderley de Sales , Menezes Danielle Carneiro de , Lins Otávio Gomes
Published: November 2011

OBJETIVO: descrever as etapas de construção do EMG BioanalyzerBR (versão 1.0) e demonstrar a sua aplicabilidade na análise de parâmetros fornecidos pela eletromiografia de superfície (EMGs). MÉTODOS: trata-se de um estudo descritivo do software de análise desenvolvido para analisar parâmetros obtidos na eletromiografia de superfície de músculos envolvidos na deglutição. Este software foi escrito em um ambiente de desenvolvimento utilizado por pesquisadores do mundo todo, de fácil acessibilidade e programação: o SCILAB. RESULTADOS: esta ferramenta se mostrou eficaz para a análise e transferência de dados nos registros curtos, contendo em média 10s de duração, porém para registros mais longos com duração maior que 20s apresentou falhas que não prejudicaram o cálculo após algumas tentativas. CONCLUSÃO: apesar das dificuldades, O EMG BioanalyzerBR possibilitou a realização das marcações canal por canal e quantas marcações fossem necessárias de forma simultânea,e desta forma a tabulação dos dados ficou mais rápida e com margem de falhas humanas reduzidas, porém com necessidade de aprimoramentos para a versão 2.0.
Análise de crescimento do capim Coastcross-1 sob adubação nitrogenada em duas idades de rebrotação
Authors: Pereira Odilon Gomes , Oliveira Marco Antônio de , Pinto José Cardoso , Santos Manoel Eduardo Rozalino , Ribeiro Karina Guimarães , Cecon Paulo Roberto
Published: November 2011

Avaliaram-se os índices de crescimento do capim Coastcross-1 sob cinco doses de nitrogênio (0, 100, 200, 300 e 400 kg/ha.ano) e duas idades de rebrotação (28 e 42 dias). As doses de nitrogênio foram arranjadas em esquema fatorial 5 × 2, em blocos ao acaso, com três repetições. A adubação nitrogenada foi parcelada em três aplicações, realizadas logo após os cortes. Maiores valores de relação folha/colmo e razão de peso foliar foram obtidos aos 28 dias, em comparação aos 42 dias de rebrotação. Houve redução linear na relação folha/colmo com a adubação nitrogenada (de 1,6 para 1,0 nas doses de 0 e 133 kg/ha.corte de N). Por outro lado, a adubação nitrogenada aumentou linearmente a área foliar específica do capim Coastcross-1 aos 28 dias de rebrotação (de 10,3 a 20,8 m²/kg com o incremento de 0 a 133 kg/ha.corte de N), resultando em elevação da sua razão de área foliar. Na ausência de nitrogênio, a área foliar específica foi maior aos 42 dias (14,3 m²/kg) em relação aos 28 dias de rebrotação (8,6 m²/kg). A idade de rebrotação e a adubação nitrogenada modificam o padrão de acúmulo de forragem e as características do pasto de capim Coastcross-1. Durante a estação de maior crescimento, o pasto de capim Coastcross-1 adubado com maior dose de nitrogênio deve ser manejado com menor idade de rebrotação (28 dias).
Utilização de monoamônio fosfato em rações com elevado teor de polpa cítrica para cordeiros em confinamento
Authors: Rodrigues Gustavo Henrique , Susin Ivanete , Pires Alexandre Vaz , Queiroz Mário Adriano Ávila , Amaral Rafael Camargo do , Biehl Marcos Vinicius , Gentil Renato Shinkai , Ferreira Evandro Maia
Published: November 2011

Objetivou-se com esta pesquisa avaliar os efeitos da inclusão de monoamônio fosfato (MAP) em rações com alta proporção de concentrado contendo polpa cítrica sobre o desempenho e as características de carcaça de cordeiros em confinamento. Vinte e quatro cordeiros Santa Inês (26,4 kg de peso corporal e 125 dias de idade, em média) foram distribuídos em delineamento experimental de blocos completos casualizados, definidos de acordo com o peso e a idade no início do experimento. As rações foram isonitrogenadas, continham 70% de polpa cítrica na MS e tiveram a adição de 0; 0,3; 0,6 e 0,9% de MAP, correspondendo aos tratamentos CON, 0,3MAP, 0,6MAP e 0,9MAP, respectivamente. Houve diminuição linear no consumo de matéria seca e ganho diário médio de peso com a inclusão de MAP na ração, sem alteração nos parâmetros de carcaça avaliados. A utilização de MAP como fonte de fósforo em rações contendo polpa cítrica afeta negativamente o desempenho de cordeiros em confinamento.
Uso da ressonância em cordas para ensino de física
Authors: Gomes Cezar Augusto , Lüdke Everton
Published: November 2011

Nesse trabalho, discutimos um experimento laboratorial de baixo custo para o estudo da teoria de ondas estacionárias em cordas vibrantes. Fazendo uso de um aparato eletrônico relativamente simples, baseado na realimentação eletromagnética, conseguimos verificar tanto a harmonicidade das ondas estacionárias quanto a relação numérica existente entre os harmônicos presentes em oscilações obtidas para um dado modo de excitação.