bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Comparison of cathepsin L activity in cheek and forearm stratum corneum in young female adults
Authors: Yamaguchi Masaki , Tahara Yusuke , Makino Teruhiko , Shimizu Tadamichi , Date Akira
Published: June 2009

Purpose: The objective is to determine the usefulness of cathepsin L (Cat L) activity derived from the stratum corneum as an index of skin conditions by comparing the cheek and the forearm, in 20 female young adults.

Methods: The sebum quantity, hydration index, melanin index and pH were measured with a sensor system consisting of a sebumeter, a corneometer, a mexameter and a pH meter. The stratum corneum was collected using tape stripping. Cat L and total protein (TP) were analyzed and the Cat L/TP ratio was calculated.

Results: Our results indicated that (i) chronic sun exposure causes an increase in Cat L activity; and (ii) in order to cancel out the influence of the collecting technique, it is very important to measure the Cat L/TP ratio.

Conclusion: It is considered that the Cat L/TP ratio may be a useful index of the skin conditions in humans.
ORIGINAL ARTICLE: Calcineurin/NFAT Pathway: A Novel Regulator of Parturition
Authors: Tabata Chisa , Ogita Kazuhide , Sato Keisuke , Nakamura Hitomi , Qing Zhang , Negoro Hidenori , Kumasawa Keiichi , Temma‐Asano Kumiko , Tsutsui Tateki , Nishimori Katsuhiko , Kimura Tadashi
Published: June 2009

Problem  The oxytocin (OT)–oxytocin receptor (OTR) system plays an important role in mammalian parturition. However, we found OTR‐deficient (OTRKO) mice are fertile and deliver at term without birth defects, thus alternative pathways inducing parturition can be hypothesized.

Methods of study  We tested the gene expression profile of OTRKO mice using suppressive subtractive hybridization, and focused on the calcineurin/nuclear factor of activated T cells (NFAT) pathway. We examined the expression and localization of this pathway in mouse parturition.

Results  Calcineurin and NFATc1 were detected in the decidua of pregnant uteri at term using immunohistochemistry (IHC). We identified higher activation levels of NFATc1 in wild type (WT) than in OTRKO mice and increased calcineurin A and NFATc1 mRNA levels during pregnancy. Moreover, injection of FK506, the inhibitor of this pathway, prolonged the delivery of the first pup.

Conclusion  Our findings suggested that the calcineurin/NFAT pathway might play a substantial role in initiation of labor.
REVIEW ARTICLE: Anti‐phospholipid Antibodies and Other Immunological Causes of Recurrent Foetal Loss – A Review of Literature of Various Therapeutic Protocols
Authors: Shetty Shrimati , Ghosh Kanjaksha
Published: June 2009

Problem  An immune‐based aetiology is one of the several accepted causes for recurrent foetal loss (RFL). However, most of the immunological theories have not fulfilled the criteria for causality. This is a review of the various immunological causes of RFL and the outcome of different treatment protocols.

Method of study  Both auto‐ and alloimmune maternal immunological abnormalities have been proposed to account for foetal loss. Among the autoimmune factors, anti‐phospholipid antibodies (APAs) have been demonstrated to be the strongest risk factors for foetal loss, the prevalence of which is as high as 40% in women with RFL. Other autoimmune antibodies implicated in RFL are anti‐nuclear antibodies (ANAs), anti‐thyroid antibodies and anti‐endothelial cell antibodies. The alloimmune factors implicated in pregnancy loss of unknown aetiology include abnormal natural killer (NK) cell activity, alteration in T helper 1 (Th1) and T helper 2 (Th2) ratios, presence of alloimmune antibodies like anti‐paternal cytotoxic antibodies, anti‐idiotypic antibodies, mixed lymphocyte reaction blocking antibodies and abnormal expression of HLA‐G molecules. Management of patients with RFL is mainly based on immunomodulatory (prednisolone, intravenous immunoglobulins, plasma exchange, paternal lymphocyte therapy), anti‐aggregation (aspirin) or anti‐coagulation (unfractionated or low molecular weight heparin) agents.

Results  Low‐molecular‐weight heparin with low‐dose aspirin has been found to be the most effective treatment for women with APAs and RFL. Differences in dosage, timing of treatment, inclusion criteria, outcome assessment parameters etc. are some of the factors which have resulted in discrepancies in various reports.

Conclusion  Identification of the immunological mechanisms involved in pregnancy loss and the action of different therapeutic reagents is important so that effective therapies can be designed and investigated.
Orthodontic movement of a dilacerated maxillary incisor in mixed dentition treatment
Authors: Farronato Giampietro , Maspero Cinzia , Farronato Davide
Published: June 2009

Abstract –  Dilaceration is a dental deformity characterized by an angulation between crown and root causing non‐eruption of the tooth. It generally occurs following trauma to the deciduous dentition the apices of which lie close to the permanent tooth buds. Surgical extraction used to be the first choice in treating the severely dilacerated teeth. In this case report, it is described how a dilacerated central incisor was successfully moved into alignment in a young patient with proper surgical and orthodontic management avoiding use of prosthetic/implant devices. The panoramic radiograph after the traumatic injury is compared with the one at the end of treatment. The results were sustainable over long‐term in both periodontal and aesthetic terms.
Marathon of eponyms: 3 Crouzon syndrome
Authors: Scully C , Langdon J , Evans J
Published: June 2009

The use of eponyms has long been contentious, but many remain in common use, as discussed elsewhere (Editorial: Oral Diseases. 2009: 15; 185). The use of eponyms in diseases of the head and neck is found mainly in specialties dealing with medically compromised individuals (paediatric dentistry, special care dentistry, oral and maxillofacial medicine, oral and maxillofacial pathology, oral and maxillofacial radiology and oral and maxillofacial surgery) and particularly by hospital‐centred practitioners. This series has selected some of the more recognised relevant eponymous conditions and presents them alphabetically. The information is based largely on data available from MEDLINE and a number of internet websites as noted below: the authors would welcome any corrections. This document summarises data about Crouzon syndrome.
Infants with HIV‐infected mothers in a universal newborn hearing screening programme in Lagos, Nigeria
Authors: Olusanya Bolajoko O , Afe Abayomi J , Onyia Ngozi O
Published: June 2009

Aim:  To establish the characteristics of infants with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)‐infected mothers enrolled under a two‐stage universal newborn hearing screening programme in Lagos, Nigeria.

Methods:  A matched case‐control study from May 2005 to December 2007 in which factors associated with maternal HIV status were determined by conditional multivariable logistic regression analysis.

Results:  Some 266 newborns had HIV‐infected mothers and were matched with 1330 controls by age and sex. Factors independently associated with increased risk of maternal HIV status were ethnicity, religion, housing sanitation facilities and prematurity while prior or current caesarean section, admission into special care unit and hyperbilirubinaemia were associated with lower risk of maternal HIV. Maternal HIV status was not significantly associated (p = 0.082) with the risk of sensorineural hearing loss although newborns with HIV‐infected mothers had more than two‐fold risk (p = 0.030) of not completing the hearing tests compared with controls.

Conclusion:  HIV‐infected mothers are likely to live in poor housing conditions but their newborns are not at an increased risk of sensorineural hearing loss in this setting barring the potential effect of significantly increased drop‐out rate in this group.
Usefulness of patient photograph as a marker for identifying denture‐wearers in India*
Authors: Anehosur Gouri V. , Acharya Ashith B. , Nadiger Ramesh K.
Published: June 2009

doi: 10.1111/j.1741‐2358.2009.00316.x
 
Usefulness of patient photograph as a marker for identifying denture‐wearers in India

Aim:  Denture marking has been recommended for identifying the edentulous, both in day‐to‐day recognition when dentures are misplaced as well as in forensic scenarios. The purpose of this study was to test the use of patient photographs as a denture marker and to compare it with conventional marking systems as well as discussing its suitability in the Indian context.

Material and methods:  A photograph of the patient was taken and compared with a metal matrix band and optically readable laminated bar code in terms of preparation, ease of incorporation into the denture, readability following denture fabrication and changes on exposure to high temperatures (200–1300°C).

Results:  The photograph and metal matrix band were easy to prepare and incorporate, but the bar code was less so; no differences, however, were appreciable with regard to readability of the three markers. Fire resistance of the photographic marker (280°C) and bar code (200°C) was considerably lower to that of the metal marker (1050°C).

Conclusions:  The major advantage of the photographic marker is that identity is easily ascertained by lay persons with the unassisted eye (bar codes require a hand‐held reading device); photographic markers are also relevant in the Indian context where one‐third of the population is illiterate and diverse scripts are used across the country, making interpretation of written data challenging at times. This allows for photographic markers’ routine use in residential and hospital set‐ups. Although the photographic marker has low fire resistance, it may be useful in forensic contexts since dentures retained in the mouth are well‐protected by the oro‐facial tissues and may survive incineration.
Investigating the effects of crop type, fertility management and crop protection on the activity of beneficial invertebrates in an extensive farm management comparison trial
Authors: Eyre M.D. , Sanderson R.A. , Shotton P.N. , Leifert C.
Published: June 2009

The activity of 11 groups of invertebrates, mainly predators and parasites, was investigated in 2005 and 2006 in a plot trial system on a farm in northern England, where the effects of organic and conventional fertility and crop protection management were separated within different crop types. Invertebrate activity was assessed using pitfall traps and suction sampling. Mixed effects models indicated that crop type significantly affected activity in all 11 groups. Crop protection applications had only a limited impact on activity but fertility management had considerable effects in some crops. Most differences were in barley, wheat and grass/clover, with less in vegetable and bean plots. Carabidae, Lycosidae, Staphylinidae, Linyphiidae and Braconidae gave consistent responses to fertility management, with more activity of the first two groups in organic plots and more of the other three in conventional plots. However, Coccinellidae and Ichneumonidae were not consistent in their activity between crops. After the effects of crop type had been partialled out, a constrained ordination showed that the novel combination of organic fertility and conventional crop protection had the most influence on group activity, with the combination of organic fertility and organic crop protection also significant. Maximising the activity of beneficial invertebrates in organic and sustainable farming systems requires a basic understanding of the effects of both crop type and fertility management, as well as crop protection.
Infestation of coconut fruits by Aceria guerreronis enhances the pest status of the coconut moth Atheloca subrufella
Authors: De Santana S.W.J. , Torres J.B. , Gondim M.G.C. , Barros R.
Published: June 2009

The coconut mite, Aceria guerreronis (Acari: Eriophyidae) and the coconut moth, Atheloca subrufella (Lepidoptera: Phycitidae), exploit the same habitat—meristematic region underneath the coconut fruit perianth. The coconut fruit perianth, however, is a tight structure allowing free colonisation of the meristematic region of the fruit only by small arthropods such as the eriophyid and tarsonemid mites. Fruits infested by the mites develop different levels of necrosis around the perianth providing access to colonising larvae of the coconut moth, which bore the fruit under the perianth resulting in fruit abortion. Based on field observations, we hypothesise that A. subrufella will colonise coconut fruits only if they exhibit damage on the perianth such as the necrosis caused by the coconut mite. Fruits with and without necrosis were collected from different production areas located in three different states along the Brazilian Atlantic coast and inspected for infestation with coconut moth larvae. In the laboratory, coconut fruits with and without necrosis were offered to moths for oviposition preference and tested for colonisation by neonate and third instar larvae. The results showed that the moths showed no preference for fruits with or without necrosis for oviposition and, hence, neonate larvae have to go under the perianth bract to reach the meristematic region of the fruit. However, neonate larvae were unable to colonise fruits without necrosis (0%) compared to 23% and 60% of fruit colonisation success when exhibiting mite necrosis or mechanical damage, respectively. Similar results were found with respect to older coconut moth larvae. Thus, the data support the hypothesis that the indirect interaction through previous fruit colonisation and necrosis caused by the coconut mite allows the larvae of A. subrufella to be a key pest of coconut fruits.
Myofibrillar Myopathies: A Clinical and Myopathological Guide
Authors: Schröder Rolf , Schoser Benedikt
Published: June 2009

Myofibrillar myopathies (MFMs) are histopathologically characterized by desmin‐positive protein aggregates and myofibrillar degeneration. Because of the marked phenotypic and pathomorphological variability, establishing the diagnosis of MFM can be a challenging task. While MFMs are partly caused by mutations in genes encoding for extramyofibrillar proteins (desmin, αB‐crystallin, plectin) or myofibrillar proteins (myotilin, Z‐band alternatively spliced PDZ‐containing protein, filamin C, Bcl‐2‐associated athanogene‐3, four‐and‐a‐half LIM domain 1), a large number of these diseases are caused by still unresolved gene defects. Although recent years have brought new insight into the pathogenesis of MFMs, the precise molecular pathways and sequential steps that lead from an individual gene defect to progressive muscle damage are still unclear. This review focuses on the clinical and myopathological aspects of genetically defined MFMs, and shall provide a diagnostic guide for this numerically significant group of protein aggregate myopathies.
Inclusion Body Myositis: A Degenerative Muscle Disease Associated with Intra‐Muscle Fiber Multi‐Protein Aggregates, Proteasome Inhibition, Endoplasmic Reticulum Stress and Decreased Lysosomal Degradation
Authors: Askanas Valerie , Engel W. King , Nogalska Anna
Published: June 2009

Sporadic inclusion body myositis (s‐IBM), the most common muscle disease of older persons, is of unknown cause, and there is no enduring treatment. Abnormal accumulation of intracellular multi‐protein inclusions is a characteristic feature of the s‐IBM phenotype, and as such s‐IBM can be considered a “conformational disorder,” caused by protein unfolding/misfolding combined with the formation of inclusion bodies. Abnormal intracellular accumulation of unfolded proteins may lead to their aggregation and inclusion body formation.

The present article is focusing on the multiple proteins that are accumulated in the form of aggregates within s‐IBM muscle fibers, and it explores the most recent research advances directed toward a better understanding of mechanisms causing their impaired degradation and abnormal aggregation. We illustrate that, among other factors, abnormal misfolding, accumulation and aggregation of proteins are associated with their inadequate disposal—and these factors are combined with, and perhaps provoked by, an aging intracellular milieu. Other concurrent and possibly provocative phenomena known within s‐IBM muscle fibers are: endoplasmic reticulum stress and unfolded protein response, mitochondrial abnormalities, proteasome inhibition, lysosome abnormality and endodissolution. Together, these appear to lead to the s‐IBM‐specific vacuolar degeneration, and muscle fiber atrophy, concluding with muscle fiber death.
Effect of High‐Pressure Food Processing on the Physical Properties of Synthetic and Biopolymer Films
Authors: Galotto M.J. , Ulloa P.A. , Guarda A. , Gavara R. , Miltz J.
Published: June 2009

ABSTRACT:  The effect of high‐pressure processing on 2 plastic food packaging films, a biopolymer (PLASiOx/PLA) and a synthetic polymer (PET‐AlOx), was studied. Samples in direct contact with olive oil, as a fatty food simulant, and distilled water, as an aqueous simulant, were subjected to a pressure of 500MPa for 15 min at 50 °C. The mechanical, thermal, and gas barrier properties of both films were evaluated after the high‐pressure processing (HPP) and compared to control samples that have not undergone this treatment. Significant changes in all properties were observed in both films after the HPP treatment and in contact with the food simulants. In both films an induced crystallization was noticed. In the PLASiOx/PLA film the changes were larger when in contact with water that probably acted as a plasticizer. In the PET‐AlOx film the changes in properties were attributed to the formation of pinholes and cracks during the HPP treatment. In this film, most of the properties changed more in the presence of oil as the food simulant.
Characteristics and Use of Yellow Stripe Trevally Hydrolysate as Culture Media
Authors: Klompong Vilailak , Benjakul Soottawat , Kantachote Duangporn , Shahidi Fereidoon
Published: June 2009

ABSTRACT:  Characteristics and the use as culture media of protein hydrolysate from yellow stripe trevally (HF25) were determined in comparison with Bacto Peptone. HF25 had the higher contents of ash (45.73%), lipid (0.77%), and moisture (4.34%) but lower protein content (42.11%) than did Bacto Peptone (P < 0.05). HF25 powder was slightly darker than Bacto Peptone (P < 0.05). HF25 contained a higher amount of essential amino acids (44.05%) than did Bacto Peptone (19.34%). HF25 and Bacto Peptone consisted of several minerals at varying levels and had an excellent solubility over a wide pH range. At water activity (aw) greater than 0.75, the much higher moisture sorption was found in HF25 (P < 0.05). HF25 showed the higher bacterial productivity ratio than did Bacto Peptone (P < 0.05). When HF25 and commercial Bacto Peptone were used as microbial media to determine microbial load of environmental and food samples and pathogenic bacteria, HF25 generally exhibited similar potential in culturing those microorganisms (P > 0.05). Thus, the conversion of low market value species to fish protein hydrolysate, which can be used as the nitrogenous substrate for microbial growth, could be achieved.
Purified Glycosaminoglycans from Cooked Haddock May Enhance Fe Uptake Via Endocytosis in a Caco‐2 Cell Culture Model
Authors: Laparra José M. , Barberá Reyes , Alegría Amparo , Glahn Raymond P. , Miller Dennis D.
Published: June 2009

ABSTRACT:  This study aims to understand the enhancing effect of glycosaminoglycans (GAGs), such as chondroitin/dermatan structures, on Fe uptake to Caco‐2 cells. High‐sulfated GAGs were selectively purified from cooked haddock. An in vitro digestion/Caco‐2 cell culture model was used to evaluate Fe uptake (cell ferritin formation) from a Fe+3‐containing solution, and Fe+3/ascorbic acid (AA) and Fe+3/GAGs mixtures. Mitochondria (MTT test) and endosomal/lysosomal activities (neutral red uptake, NR), intracellular accumulation of reactive oxygen species, and GSH concentration were monitored as biomarkers of the changes of cellular metabolism. Changes in mRNA expression of Fe transporters, divalent metal transporter‐1 (DMT1), and duodenal cytochrome‐b (DcytB) were also evaluated. The Fe uptake from Fe+3/GAGs mixture was up to 1.8‐fold higher than from Fe+3 alone. Both Fe+3 alone and Fe+3/AA mixture produced highest increase in MTT conversion. In contrast, cell cultures exposed to the Fe+3/GAGs mixture exhibited highest NR uptake values. All Fe‐containing solutions tested caused a sharp intramitochondrial accumulation of reactive oxygen species. Cell cultures exposed to the Fe+3/GAGs mixture exhibited a more preserved (by 8%) intracellular GSH concentration compared to cultures exposed to Fe+3 or Fe+3/AA mixture. In addition to cell responses, the mRNA expression of Fe transporters may suggest that Fe could also be internalized into cells by endocytosis in addition to via DMT1 in Fe+3/GAGs mixtures. These aspects need to be confirmed in in vivo experiments to better establish nutritional interventional strategies.
Subconjunctival bevacizumab for corneal neovascularization
Authors: Zaki Ahmed A. , Farid Samar F.
Published: June 2009

Acta Ophthalmol. 2010: 88: 868–871

Purpose:  This work aimed to study and evaluate the effect of subconjunctival bevacizumab injection in patients with corneal neovascularization (CNV) resulting from different ocular surface disorders.

Methods:  Ten eyes with CNV caused by different ocular surface disorders were studied. All eyes had both major and minor vessel CNV caused by factors such as healed corneal ulcers, long‐standing chronic inflammatory diseases and corneal ischaemia (caused by contact lenses). All eyes received a single subconjunctival injection of 2.5 mg (0.1 ml) bevacizumab. Morphological changes in the major and minor vessels were evaluated using slit‐lamp biomicroscopy and corneal photography.

Results:  Conspicuous recession of the minor vessels of CNV was observed in all eyes at 2 weeks post‐injection. The extent of CNV of the major vessels was significantly decreased at 2 weeks post‐injection. The level of CNV continued to decrease noticeably for 3 months and then stabilized for the remainder of the 6‐month follow‐up period. Parameters used for evaluation included the total area of CNV, which amounted to 14.0 ± 5.4% of the corneal surface pre‐injection, compared with 9.4 ± 3.9% post‐injection (p < 0.01), reflecting a mean decrease in CNV of 33 ± 8%, and the extent of neovascularization, which decreased from 4.3 ± 1.5 clock hours pre‐injection to 2.4 ± 1.1 clock hours post‐injection (p < 0.01). During the 6‐month follow‐up, none of the 10 eyes showed any complication that could be related to subconjunctival bevacizumab injection.

Conclusions:  Bevacizumab can be used safely and effectively for CNV resulting from different ocular surface disorders. It represents an effective treatment for minor vessel neovascularization caused by long‐standing chronic inflammation (e.g. trachoma) or long‐standing corneal ischaemia (e.g. contact lenses), as well as for major vessel neovascularization resulting from different causes. Bevacizumab was well tolerated over the 6‐month follow‐up period.
Life cycle assessment of biofuels from Jatropha curcas in West Africa: a field study
Authors: NDONG ROBERT , MONTREJAUD‐VIGNOLES MIREILLE , SAINT GIRONS OLIVIER , GABRIELLE BENOÎT , PIROT ROLAND , DOMERGUE MARJORIE , SABLAYROLLES CAROLINE
Published: June 2009

In recent years, liquid biofuels for transport have benefited from significant political support due to their potential role in curbing climate change and reducing our dependence on fossil fuels. They may also participate to rural development by providing new markets for agricultural production. However, the growth of energy crops has raised concerns due to their high consumption of conventional fuels, fertilizers and pesticides, their impacts on ecosystems and their competition for arable land with food crops. Low‐input species such as Jatropha curcas, a perennial, inedible crop well adapted to semiarid regions, has received much interest as a new alternative for biofuel production, minimizing adverse effects on the environment and food supply. Here, we used life‐cycle assessment to quantify the benefits of J. curcas biofuel production in West Africa in terms of greenhouse gas emissions and fossil energy use, compared with fossil diesel fuel and other biofuels. Biodiesel from J. curcas has a much higher performance than current biofuels, relative to oil‐derived diesel fuels. Under West Africa conditions, J. curcas biodiesel allows a 72% saving in greenhouse gas emissions compared with conventional diesel fuel, and its energy yield (the ratio of biodiesel energy output to fossil energy input) is 4.7. J. curcas production studied is eco‐compatible for the impacts under consideration and fits into the context of sustainable development.
Observer Design for Nonlinear Systems With Time-Periodic Coefficients via Normal Form Theory
Authors: Zhang Yandong , Sinha S. C.
Published: June 2009

For most complex dynamic systems, it is not always possible to measure all system states by a direct measurement technique. Thus for dynamic characterization and controller design purposes, it is often necessary to design an observer in order to get an estimate of those states, which cannot be measured directly. In this work, the problem of designing state observers for free systems (linear as well as nonlinear) with time-periodic coefficients is addressed. It is shown that, for linear periodic systems, the observer design problem is the duality of the controller design problem. The state observer is constructed using a symbolic controller design method developed earlier using a Chebyshev expansion technique where the Floquet multipliers can be placed in the desired locations within the unit circle. For nonlinear time-periodic systems, an observer design methodology is developed using the Lyapunov–Floquet transformation and the Poincaré normal form technique. First, a set of time-periodic near identity coordinate transformations are applied to convert the nonlinear problem to a linear observer design problem. The conditions for existence of such invertible maps and their computations are discussed. Then the local identity observers are designed and implemented using a symbolic computational algorithm. Several illustrative examples are included to show the effectiveness of the proposed methods.
Nonsmooth Dynamics by Path Integration: An Example of Stochastic and Chaotic Response of a Meshing Gear Pair
Authors: Mo E. , Naess A.
Published: June 2009

The probability density function (PDF) of the solution process of a nonlinear stochastic differential equation (SDE) is found in this paper using the path integration technique. The SDE is a piecewise linear system representing a model of an imperfectly mounted spur gear pair with a small stochastic noise added to the driving force. It is known that the system model for a particular choice of parameters shows chaotic behavior (Kahraman and Singh, 1990, “Non-Linear Dynamics of a Spur Gear Pair,” J. Sound Vibrat., 142(1), pp. 49–75). The PDF is compared with the Poincaré map of the deterministic system and it is shown that the stochastic and deterministic attractors are very similar. Then it is shown that although the stochastic attractor appears clearly after just a few iterations, the probability density over the attractor depends on the initial condition. The system does converge to one unique periodic PDF eventually but the convergence is fairly slow. However, the transient is almost periodic with a period that is twice that of the forcing, which can be utilized to obtain a much higher convergence rate. The advantage of using a SDE to study this rattling problem is that it can provide a very detailed picture of the dynamics and the most likely states of the system can immediately be identified.
Transient Response of Circular, Elastic Plates to Point Loads
Authors: Szuladziński Gregory
Published: June 2009

When a dynamic point load is applied laterally to a plate, the deflection gradually spreads over time until the entire plate surface is affected. The determination of early stages of response presents substantial mathematical difficulties. The normal mode superposition is made awkward by the fact that the number of modal components necessary to get a reasonably accurate answer increases as the time of interest becomes smaller. This brief presents a different approach, based on a flexural wave concept, which solves the problem by formulating compact expressions. At the same time, the approach illustrates the basic mechanism of spreading deflections. A shear correction is introduced for the early phase of motion. The quantification is also of some interest in explaining certain aspects of mass impact against a plate.
The burden of smoking-related ill health in the UK
Authors: Allender S , Balakrishnan R , Scarborough P , Webster P , Rayner M
Published: June 2009

Background:

Smoking is one of the biggest avoidable causes of morbidity and mortality in the United Kingdom. This paper quantifies the current health and economic burden of smoking in the UK. It provides comparisons with previous studies of the burden of smoking in the UK and with the costs for other chronic disease risk factors.

Methods:

A systematic literature review to identify previous estimates of National Health Service costs attributable to smoking was undertaken. Information from the World Health Organization’s Global Burden of Disease Project and routinely collected mortality data were used to calculate mortality due to smoking in the UK. Population-attributable fractions for smoking-related diseases from the Global Burden of Disease Project were applied to NHS cost data to estimate direct financial costs.

Results:

Previous studies estimated that smoking costs the NHS about £1.4 billion to £1.7 billion in 1991 and has been responsible for about 100 000 deaths per annum over the past 10 years. This paper estimates that the number of deaths attributable to smoking in 2005 was 109 164 (19% of all deaths, 27% deaths in men and 11% of deaths in women). Smoking was directly responsible for 12% of disability adjusted life years lost in 2002 (15.4% in men; 8.5% in women) and the direct cost to the NHS was £5.2 billion in 2005–6.

Conclusion:

Smoking is still a considerable public health burden in the UK. Accurately establishing the burden in terms of death, disability and financial costs is important for informing national public health policy.
Performance of a highwall in soft rock, Highvale mine, Alberta
Authors: Small C. A. , Morgenstern N. R.
Published: June 2009

The Highvale mine, west of Edmonton, Alta., is a strip-mining operation with Upper Cretaceous soft sandstone and mudstone overlying the coal deposit. Highwalls cut in the soft rock experienced numerous failures from 1983 to 1985 that disrupted stripping and mining operations and posed a threat to safety. The performance of a 20–23 m highwall at Highvale was studied in 1987 and 1988 to gain insight to the mechanisms of failure. The study utilized surveying, slope indicators, and piezometers to determine the deformation and seepage pattern behind the highwall as it rebounded into the pit upon excavation. Translational movements were found to extend over 250 m behind the highwall along weak, probably presheared bentonitic mudstones. The sandstone and mudstone overburden was observed to extend toward the open pit. This affected the pore-pressure regime and led to a reduction in the mass strength of the sandstone and mudstone. The findings of this study contributed to a better understanding of the mechanisms of highwall failure in soft sedimentary rocks. Key words : highwall, deformations, failure, seepage, loosening, softening.
Development of negative skin friction on driven piles in soft Bangkok clay
Authors: Indraratna B. , Balasubramaniam A. S. , Phamvan P. , Wong Y. K.
Published: June 2009

This paper describes the results of short-term pullout tests and long-term full-scale measurements of negative skin friction on driven piles in Bangkok subsoils. Two instrumented cylindrical (hollow) prestressed concrete piles were fully equipped with two independent load-measurement systems, load cells, and telltale rods. Pore pressures and ground movements in the vicinity of the piles were monitored throughout the period of investigation. The effect of bitumen coating on negative skin friction was also studied. The long-term behaviour of driven piles was compared with the estimated values obtained from short-term pullout tests and soil strength data. It was found that the negative skin friction can be predicted well by the effective stress approach using values of β between 0.1 and 0.2. The load–settlement and load–transfer behaviour were numerically modelled to acquire a more comprehensive understanding of negative skin friction developed on driven piles. A settlement-controlled concept is also introduced for piles subjected to negative skin friction, on the basis of these findings. Key words : consolidation, downdrag, driven pile, embankment, finite elements, pore pressures, pullout, settlements, soft clay.
The reliability of an anchored sheet-pile wall embedded in a cohesionless soil
Authors: Cherubini C. , Garrasi A. , Petrolla C.
Published: June 2009

A probabilistic method is used in this study to investigate the safety of an anchored sheet-pile wall embedded in a cohesionless soil. Two different definitions of the structure's limit state are given for reference. Failure probability is estimated in terms of overall stability, specifically with reference to the upper soil anchor. The probabilistic analysis is based on a second level approximate computation method (Rosenblueth point estimate method). The friction angle and the soil unit weight are the assumed independent and uncorrelated stochastic variables. Key words : probability, sheet-pile wall, active and passive pressure, friction angle, safety factor, safety margin, reliability index.
Cone penetration testing in stiff glacial soils using a downhole cone penetrometer
Authors: Treen Curtis R. , Robertson Peter K. , Woeller David J.
Published: June 2009

Cone penetration testing (CPT) in Canada is usually performed using locally available drilling rigs. The limited pushing capacity of most drilling rigs coupled with the risk of damage to expensive cone penetrometers has tended to restrict the CPT to generally loose or soft soils. Therefore, in regions dominated by stiff glacial soils the more rugged standard penetration test (SPT) is still the most commonly used in situ test during geotechnical investigations. However, there are many limitations with the SPT with respect to interpretation and repeatability, especially the uncertainty with the energy delivered from various SPT hammer anvil systems. A downhole cone penetration test (DCPT) has been developed by modifying the equipment and procedure of the standard electric CPT. The DCPT consists of a simple, inexpensive electric cone penetrometer attached to a 1.5 m (5 ft) length of AW drill rod. The test is performed by pushing the cone 1.5 m into the base of an open borehole to produce a continuous profile of penetration resistance Qc, over the 1.5-m interval or whatever interval penetration is possible. The test incorporates the simplicity, ruggedness, and depth capability of the SPT but is able to define a near-continuous, accurate, and repeatable cone penetration resistance profile. The equipment and procedure of the DCPT is described in detail, and results from a near-continuous DCPT and an adjacent continuous CPT are presented and compared with the results obtained from an adjacent borehole with SPT. Excellent agreement was found between the results of the DCPT and the CPT. Key words : in situ, cone penetration testing, stiff soils.
Effect of the axis of moment equilibrium in slope stability analysis
Authors: Fredlund D. G. , Zhang Z. M. , Lam L.
Published: June 2009

Some of the methods of slices satisfying moment equilibrium derived for circular slip surfaces have been extended to accommodate noncircular (or composite) type slip surfaces. A question arises regarding the point about which moment equilibrium should be taken and whether varying the center for moment equilibrium has a significant effect upon the computed factor of safety. This paper addresses the question of the effect of the center for moment equilibrium as it pertains to noncircular (or composite) slip surfaces. In particular, extensions of the Ordinary, Bishop's simplified, and the General Limit Equilibrium (GLE) methods are examined. The results show that considerable variations in the factor of safety can occur when using the extended Ordinary method. The extended Bishop's simplified method shows varying factors of safety as the moment axis moves vertically. Variations in the computed factor of safety can generally be expected to be less than 12%. The GLE, Morgerstern–Price, and Spencer methods are independent of the axis for moment equilibrium. Key words : slope stability, limit equilibrium, moment equilibrium, factor of safety, noncircular slip surface.
Migration of acidic pore waters at the Waite Amulet tailings site near Rouyn–Noranda, Quebec, Canada
Authors: Yanful Ernest K. , St-Arnaud Luc C.
Published: June 2009

Pore waters found in the unsaturated zone of the Waite Amulet tailings have been modified by sulphide mineral oxidation, resulting in acidic pH (near 4) and high concentrations of dissolved iron and sulphate at about 5 and 12 g/L, respectively. These pore waters have been displaced down into the shallow saturated zone of the tailings by infiltrating water. Most metals are removed from the pore water as a result of pH buffering before they reach the deeper saturated zone. However, some dissolved metals still remain in solution and are transported with the pore water through the tailings. Numerical flow modelling shows that an anisotropy in hydraulic conductivity (ratio of Kx/Ky is estimated to be 100) exists in the tailings, most likely due to the presence of horizontal fine-grained "slime" layers. The estimated horizontal pore-water velocity is almost 20 times higher than the vertical velocity. Anisotropy in hydraulic conductivity has the effect of promoting horizontal flow over vertical flow in the model. The geometry of the tailings impoundment and the assumed impermeability of the varved clay soil underlying the tailings also contribute to increased horizontal flow. To verify that a preferred horizontal flow exists and that the clay subsoil is indeed impermeable, the geotechnical properties and hydrogeochemistry of the clay are also evaluated. The results indicate that clay located beneath the tailings is slightly overconsolidated in the shallow zone but normally consolidated at greater depth by the weight of the tailings. Overconsolidation ratios reach a maximum value of 2.0. In the clay–tailings interface zone, the soil is characterized by lower in situ water contents and slightly higher undrained shear strengths Cu than the deeper clay. The water contents of the near-interface clay average about 40% and the Cu values 80 kPa, compared with an average water content of 55% and a Cu value of only 20 kPa for the clay at greater depths. These geotechnical properties confirm the presence of a desiccated oxidized upper zone identified in previous studies. It is hypothesized that fractures that could have appeared in the oxidized zone before the tailings deposition would have been closed due to consolidation by the tailings mass. Above-background sulphate concentrations observed in the clay layer at a depth of 1 m are believed to be controlled by diffusion and advection. The presence of fractures in the oxidized zone and excess pore-water pressures generated during consolidation of the clay by the tailings mass could have also influenced chemical transport. Key words : acid generation, acid mine drainage, diffusion, geotechnical, hydrogeochemistry, tailings.
Seismic cone analysis using digital signal processing for dynamic site characterization
Authors: Campanella R. G. , Stewart W. P.
Published: June 2009

In situ measurement of the dynamic characteristics of surficial soils is becoming more common in geotechnical practice for prediction of ground-surface motions from earthquake excitation and to evaluate foundations for vibrating equipment. Techniques for these measurements have been under development at the University of British Columbia (UBC) since 1980. The paper discusses many practical considerations with respect to equipment (sources, receivers, trigger, etc.) and procedures that can affect the interpretation and analysis of seismic cone results. A brief review is given of the cross-over method as used at UBC to determine interval shear velocity travel times from downhole seismic cone testing. A more detailed description is provided for the cross-correlation technique used in the frequency domain, which has recently been incorporated into the analysis procedure. Comparisons of these two methods are presented and discussed. It has been found useful to isolate the main shear wave before further calculations, and the effects of this procedure are provided. A summary of findings concerning the characteristics of the measured signals is also included. Key words : seismic, cone penetrometer, sources, receivers, accelerometers, shear wave, velocity, downhole, digital, signal processing.
The influence of foundation geometry on the uplift behaviour of piles with enlarged bases
Authors: Dickin E. A. , Leung C. F.
Published: June 2009

Centrifugal model tests investigating the influence of shaft to base diameter ratio and bell angle on the uplift capacity of piles with enlarged bases (or belled piers) in sand are reported. Increases in the angle of bell and in diameter ratio both result in a decrease in net uplift capacity and failure displacement. This appears to account for observed differences in uplift capacity between belled piers and anchor slabs. Studies of failure mechanisms around models of belled piers and anchor plates show distinctly different behaviour characteristics between foundation types. The comparatively low uplift capacities observed for belled piers are attributed to a lesser degree of soil mobilization. An empirical design method for belled piers is proposed in which appropriate factors which account for foundation geometry are applied to a simple continuous anchor formula. Key words : piles, sand, uplift capacity, centrifuge, design.
ASYMPTOTIC PROPERTIES OF THE MAXIMUM LIKELIHOOD ESTIMATOR FOR STOCHASTIC PARABOLIC EQUATIONS WITH ADDITIVE FRACTIONAL BROWNIAN MOTION
Authors: CIALENCO IGOR , LOTOTSKY SERGEY V. , POSPÍŠIL JAN
Published: June 2009

A parameter estimation problem is considered for a diagonalizable stochastic evolution equation using a finite number of the Fourier coefficients of the solution. The equation is driven by additive noise that is white in space and fractional in time with the Hurst parameter H ≥ 1/2. The objective is to study asymptotic properties of the maximum likelihood estimator as the number of the Fourier coefficients increases. A necessary and sufficient condition for consistency and asymptotic normality is presented in terms of the eigenvalues of the operators in the equation.
THE EXISTENCE AND ASYMPTOTIC BEHAVIOUR OF MILD SOLUTIONS TO STOCHASTIC EVOLUTION EQUATIONS WITH INFINITE DELAYS DRIVEN BY POISSON JUMPS
Authors: TANIGUCHI TAKESHI , LUO JIAOWAN
Published: June 2009

In this paper we consider a sufficient condition for mild solutions to exist and to be almost surely exponentially stable or exponentially ultimate bounded in mean square for the following stochastic evolution equation with infinite delays driven by Poisson jump processes: [Formula: see text] with an initial function X(s) = φ (s), -∞ < s ≤ 0, where φ : (-∞, 0] → H is a càdlàg function with [Formula: see text].
STABILITY OF STOCHASTIC DELAYED SIR MODEL
Authors: CHEN GUOTING , LI TIECHENG
Published: June 2009

A stochastic version of the SIR model is investigated in this paper. The stability in probability of the steady state of the system is proved under suitable conditions on the white noise perturbations. Linearizations of the systems both with and without delay are given and their exponentially mean square stabilities are studied.
Single-Cell Ecophysiology of Microbes as Revealed by Raman Microspectroscopy or Secondary Ion Mass Spectrometry Imaging
Authors: Wagner Michael
Published: June 2009

An astonishing diversity of microorganisms thrives on our planet and their activities are fundamental for the functioning of all ecosystems including the human body. Consequently, detailed insights into the functions performed by microorganisms in their natural environment are required to understand human biology and the biology of the world around us and to lay the foundations for targeted manipulation of microbial communities. Isotope-labeling techniques combined with molecular detection tools are frequently used by microbial ecologists to directly link structure and function of microbial communities and to monitor metabolic properties of uncultured microbes at the single-cell level. However, only the recent combination of such techniques with Raman microspectroscopy or secondary ion mass spectrometry enables functional studies of microbes on a single-cell level by using stable isotopes as labels. This review provides an overview of these new techniques and their applications in microbial ecology, which allow us to investigate the ecophysiology of uncultured microbes to an extent that was unimaginable just a few years ago.
What Sets Bacillus anthracis Apart from Other Bacillus Species?
Authors: Kolstø Anne-Brit , Tourasse Nicolas J. , Økstad Ole Andreas
Published: June 2009

Bacillus anthracis is the cause of anthrax, and two large plasmids are essential for toxicity: pXO1, which contains the toxin genes, and pXO2, which encodes a capsule. B. anthracis forms a highly monomorphic lineage within the B. cereus group, but strains of Bacillus thuringiensis and B. cereus exist that are genetically closely related to the B. anthracis cluster. During the past five years B. cereus strains that contain the pXO1 virulence plasmid were discovered, and strains with both pXO1 and pXO2 have been isolated from great apes in Africa. Therefore, the presence of pXO1 and pXO2 no longer principally separates B. anthracis from other Bacilli. The B. anthracis lineage carries a specific mutation in the global regulator PlcR, which controls the transcription of secreted virulence factors in B. cereus and B. thuringiensis. Coevolution of the B. anthracis chromosome with its plasmids may be the basis for the successful development and uniqueness of the B. anthracis lineage.
The Expanding World of Methylotrophic Metabolism
Authors: Chistoserdova Ludmila , Kalyuzhnaya Marina G. , Lidstrom Mary E.
Published: June 2009

In the past few years, the field of methylotrophy has undergone a significant transformation in terms of discovery of novel types of methylotrophs, novel modes of methylotrophy, and novel metabolic pathways. This time has also been marked by the resolution of long-standing questions regarding methylotrophy and the challenge of long-standing dogmas. This chapter is not intended to provide a comprehensive review of metabolism of methylotrophic bacteria. Instead we focus on significant recent discoveries that are both refining and transforming the current understanding of methylotrophy as a metabolic phenomenon. We also review new directions in methylotroph ecology that improve our understanding of the role of methylotrophy in global biogeochemical processes, along with an outlook for the future challenges in the field.