bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Development of a Survivable Cloud Multi-Robot Framework for Heterogeneous Environments
Authors: Osunmakinde Isaac , Vikash Ramharuk
Published: October 2014

Cloud robotics is a paradigm that allows for robots to offload computationally intensive and data storage requirements into the cloud by providing a secure and customizable environment. The challenge for cloud robotics is the inherent problem of cloud disconnection. A major assumption made in the development of the current cloud robotics frameworks is that the connection between the cloud and the robot is always available. However, for multi-robots working in heterogeneous environments, the connection between the cloud and the robots cannot always be guaranteed. This work serves to assist with the challenge of disconnection in cloud robotics by proposing a survivable cloud multi-robotics (SCMR) framework for heterogeneous environments. The SCMR framework leverages the combination of a virtual ad hoc network formed by robot-to-robot communication and a physical cloud infrastructure formed by robot-to-cloud communications. The quality of service (QoS) on the SCMR framework was tested and validated by determining the optimal energy utilization and time of response (ToR) on drivability analysis with and without cloud connection. The design trade-off, including the result, is between the computation energy for the robot execution and the offloading energy for the cloud execution.
Adaptive Control of Quadruped Locomotion Through Variable Compliance of Revolute Spiral Feet
Authors: Mutka Alan , Kočo Edin , Kovačić Zdenko
Published: October 2014

In this article we present a novel mechanical design of a robot leg that possesses active and variable passive compliance properties. The hip and knee joints provide active compliance, while the variable passive compliance comes from the spiral foot spring, mounted on the ankle joint, which changes its stiffness by rotating and changing contact angle with the ground. The stiffness of the foot for various contact angles was identified experimentally by using the strength tester measurement system. The method for damping coefficient identification, based on the observation of energy losses during the stance phase of leg hopping motion, is described and used to obtain the foot damping model. The adaptation of spiral foot stiffness to varying ground stiffness is achieved by extracting a leg contact time from a feedback signal provided by a flex sensor mounted on the foot. The experiments on a single leg and quadruped platforms have confirmed that the presented spiral foot design provides stiffness adaptability, partial recovery of the energy from the previous hop and restriction of stance contact time, which are all necessary conditions to obtain more efficient quadruped locomotion.
MORFOANATOMIA DA RIZOGÊNESE ADVENTÍCIA EM MINIESTACAS DE Eucalyptus grandis x Eucalyptus urophylla
Authors: Goulart Patrícia Bueno , Xavier Aloisio , Otoni Wagner Campos
Published: October 2014

http://dx.doi.org/10.5902/1980509815721O presente estudo teve como objetivo principal a caracterização morfoanatômica da rizogênese adventícia de miniestacas de quatro clones de Eucalyptus grandis x Eucalyptus urophylla. As miniestacas foram coletadas de minicepas estabelecidas em minijardim clonal, conduzido em sistema semi-hidropônico em canaletas com fertirrigação. Para a caracterização histológica do processo de rizogênese das miniestacas foram coletadas amostras teciduais aos 0, 1, 2, 4, 6, 8, 10 e 12 dias após o estaqueamento em casa de vegetação climatizada, para enraizamento. As amostras foram fixadas em FAA70%, desidratadas em série etílica e incluídas em metacrilato. Os resultados revelaram a origem endógena de primórdios radiculares a partir do câmbio vascular e, em alguns casos, a proliferação e a formação de uma massa de células desorganizadas (calos) em miniestacas dos clones avaliados, entre 8 e 12 dias de idade.
ESPÉCIES INDICADAS PARA A RECOMPOSIÇÃO DA FLORESTA CILIAR DA SUB-BACIA DO RIO PEIXE-BOI, PARÁ
Authors: Vale Igor do , Costa Luiz Gonzaga Silva , Miranda Izildinha Souza
Published: October 2014

http://dx.doi.org/10.5902/1980509815736Diante da importância ecológica que as florestas ciliares representam para o equilíbrio ambiental, este estudo objetiva indicar espécies nativas para serem usadas na recomposição de florestas ciliares degradadas existentes na sub-bacia do Rio Peixe-Boi. Foram inventariadas todas as árvores e arbustos com diâmetro a 1,30 m do solo > 5 cm em dez áreas de floresta secundária e seis de floresta de igapó. Os dados foram analisados pela Análise de Componentes Principais (ACP) e as espécies avaliadas silviculturalmente através de revisão bibliográfica. As áreas de igapó tiveram baixo índice de riqueza e diversidade de Shannon, quando comparado com os dados das florestas secundárias. A composição florística dos igapós foi bem heterogênea, e há maior similaridade florística entre áreas de maior proximidade geográfica. As florestas secundárias tiveram grande abundância de indivíduos, alta riqueza, diversidade e equabilidade e foram agrupadas em função da proximidade geográfica e da idade, o que está diretamente ligado ao estádio sucessional. A análise ACP estabeleceu a importância ecológica de 29 espécies arbóreas, contudo, foram encontradas informações silviculturais de apenas dez espécies. Por apresentarem grande importância ecológica e técnicas silviculturais viáveis e disponíveis na literatura, as espécies de igapó Carapa guianensis, Pachira aquatica, Spondias mombin, Tapirira guianensis e Virola guianensis são as mais indicadas para a recomposição dessas áreas, em associação com as espécies Inga edulis, Jacaranda copaia, Pseudopiptadenia psilostachya, Simarouba amara e Vismia guianensis de floresta secundária, que podem ser plantadas nas áreas de bordas e adjacentes às florestas de igapó.
SEMENTES FLORESTAIS BRASILEIRAS: INÍCIO PRECÁRIO, PRESENTE INEBRIANTE E O FUTURO, PROMISSOR?
Authors: Ribeiro-Oliveira João Paulo , Ranal Marli Aparecida
Published: October 2014

http://dx.doi.org/10.5902/1980509815738Ao se analisar a trajetória do setor de sementes florestais, é notória a relação do fortalecimento dos estudos sobre espécies nativas e o crescente cunho ambiental da Legislação Florestal brasileira. Apesar de incentivado pela Legislação, o mercado de sementes nativas é muito informal e poucas são as espécies com testes laboratoriais protocolados nas Regras para Análise de Sementes (RAS). Entretanto, a Lei nº 10.711, ao regularizar a comercialização de sementes e mudas, concedeu subsídios legais para promover a formalização do setor de sementes florestais nativas. O cumprimento desta Lei está condicionado à padronização de metodologias laboratoriais para análise da qualidade dessas sementes. Por isto, a formulação de um anexo ou de uma RAS específica para sementes florestais nativas parece estar próximo. Este fato certamente consolidará esta fatia do setor sementeiro nacional. Mas quais foram os percursos que a ciência em sementes florestais nativas teve que transpor até esta padronização? Quais são as perspectivas de futuro para o setor de sementes florestais nativas? Estas são apenas algumas das perguntas que este trabalho pretende responder, embasado em perspectivas de organizações ambientais e silviculturais, como as Redes de Sementes.
PRODUTIVIDADE E CUSTOS DO FELLER-BUNCHER E PROCESSADOR FLORESTAL EM POVOAMENTO DE EUCALIPTO DE PRIMEIRO CORTE
Authors: Simões Danilo , Fenner Paulo Torres , Esperancini Maura Seiko Tsutsui
Published: October 2014

http://dx.doi.org/10.5902/1980509815742A racionalização da colheita florestal e a minimização dos custos é uma busca constante por parte dos gestores envolvidos nesse processo, competindo a esses deliberar práticas economicamente viáveis para otimizar essa operação. O objetivo deste estudo foi avaliar técnica e economicamente a produtividade do feller-buncher e do processador florestal em povoamento de eucalipto em primeiro corte. A análise técnica englobou um estudo de tempos e movimentos, produtividade, eficiência operacional e disponibilidade mecânica. A análise econômica englobou os parâmetros do custo operacional, custo de colheita florestal e rendimento energético. Visando à otimização do custo de colheita florestal, o sistema composto pelo feller-buncher e processador florestal apresenta-se como uma alternativa viável tecnicamente e economicamente para a colheita em povoamentos de eucalipto de primeiro corte ou para povoamentos que não possuam árvores bifurcadas.
A 35-year comparison of children labelled as gifted, unlabelled as gifted and average-ability
Authors: Freeman Joan
Published: October 2014

http://dx.doi.org/10.5902/1984686X14273Why are some children seen as gifted while others of identical ability are not?  To find out why and what the consequences might be, in 1974 I began in England with 70 children labelled as gifted.  Each one was matched for age, sex and socio-economic level with two comparison children in the same school class. The first comparison child had an identical gift, and the second taken at random.  Investigation was by a battery of tests and deep questioning of pupils, teachers and parents in their schools and homes which went on for 35 years. A major significant difference was that those labelled gifted had significantly more emotional problems than either the unlabelled but identically gifted or the random controls.  The vital aspects of success for the entire sample, whether gifted or not, have been hard work, emotional support and a positive personal outlook.  But in general, the higher the individual’s intelligence the better their chances in life.
Políticas públicas para as Altas Habilidades/Superdotação: incluir ainda é preciso
Authors: Pérez Susana Graciela Pérez Barrera , Freitas Soraia Napoleão
Published: October 2014

http://dx.doi.org/10.5902/1984686X14274O presente artigo analisa as políticas públicas brasileiras para alunos com Altas Habilidades/Superdotação (AH/SD), considerando a legislação vigente à data, verificando como causas da carência e precariedade o atrelamento da oferta do atendimento educacional especializado a uma demanda que ainda não é aferida; a deficiente compreensão das realidades educacionais regionais, a circunscrição dos dispositivos exclusivamente ao âmbito educacional; o pouco conhecimento (ou mesmo desconhecimento) das leis, normas e documentos norteadores e das reais dificuldades e necessidades destes estudantes e o preconceito ideológico. Conclui que a real inclusão dos alunos com AH/SD requer a correta identificação e registro desses estudantes nos censos escolares; a promoção de um conhecimento mais aprofundado da legislação, normas e documentos norteadores e de sua fiscalização pelos poderes públicos; a necessária formação inicial e continuada de professores, profissionais e gestores sobre as AH/SD e suas necessidades; o apoio técnico e financeiro e a fiscalização do trabalho desenvolvido pelos Núcleos de Atividades de Altas Habilidades/Superdotação. Requer, também, mecanismos legais que garantam o acesso ao atendimento educacional especializado da grande maioria de estudantes com AH/SD brasileiros, filhos de famílias de classes desfavorecidas, que não possuem recursos financeiros e/ou culturais para garantir esse direito, assim como a eliminação das barreiras econômicas, culturais e atitudinais como objetivo dos dispositivos que garantem a acessibilidade das pessoas com necessidades educacionais especiais; a indispensável inclusão de módulos de formação específica para o atendimento educacional especializado nos cursos de capacitação e especialização oferecidos pelos órgãos públicos e, finalmente, a eliminação do infundamentado preconceito ideológico.
Altas Habilidades/Superdotação e a psicopedagogia modular: avaliando potencialidades
Authors: Veiga Elizabeth Carvalho da
Published: October 2014

http://dx.doi.org/10.5902/1984686X14283A psicopedagogia modular é uma proposta que apresenta um modelo de avaliação  dinâmica, um processo interativo, flexível e individualizado, buscando compreender a funcionalidade dos sistemas inteligentes. A presente investigação foi realizada com crianças que buscaram avaliação psicopedagógica no Núcleo de Pratica em Psicologia da PUCPR  e teve por objetivos apontar a funcionalidade dos sistemas inteligentes, reconhecendo a existência ou não , de altas habilidades e identificar a predominância  entre os sistemas analítico , prático ou criativo , utilizados pela clientela  em questão. A metodologia de avaliação  contou com os seguintes instrumentos : entrevista evolutiva modular; questionário para os pais; brasão familiar; E.M.C.A ; WISC III;  provas multimodais e provas cognitivas modulares. Este processo levou aproximadamente 25 encontros de  cinquenta minutos .Participaram da pesquisa 28 alunos de 8 a 17 anos  de diferentes escolas de Curitiba-Pr/ Brasil. Por meio dos dados obtidos, ainda que apurados a partir de uma amostra pequena, pode-se concluir que a proposta da Psicopedagogia Modular  com seu  modelo dinâmico de avaliação, favoreceu a identificação das altas habilidades/superdotação, na sua especificidade, ou seja ,  considerando  a multiplicidade dos sistemas inteligentes  e as habilidades envolvidas nos processos mentais que sustentam  as inteligências analítica, prática e criativa. A visão modular no processo de identificação traz uma identidade ao superdotado, tirando-o  da concepção generalista.
O Funcionamento do Programa de Atendimento a Alunos com Altas Habilida-des/Superdotação (PAAAH/SD-RJ)
Authors: Delou Cristina Maria Carvalho
Published: October 2014

http://dx.doi.org/10.5902/1984686X14323Trata-se da apresentação do funcionamento do Programa de Atendimento a Alunos com Altas Habilidades/Superdotação (PAAAH/SD), realizado na Faculdade de Educação, da Universidade Federal Fluminense, localizado em Niterói, região metropolitana da cidade do Rio de Janeiro. O programa articula ações de ensino, pesquisa e extensão. Os objetivos do PAAAH/SD podem ser categorizados em diagnóstico, orientação a família e a escola, Atendimento Educacional Especializado, Aceleração de Estudos, formação docente e pesquisa. O Programa é realizado com base na metodologia da pesquisa-ação, que busca soluções coletivas e individuais a partir da identificação das demandas sociais apontadas pelas famílias de alunos com altas habilidades/superdotação e alunos da UFF que procuram o programa. Os alunos diagnosticados com altas habilidades/superdotação são convidados a participarem das atividades acadêmicas de formação dos futuros professores das redes regulares de ensino, o que permite contato direto com este tipo de alunado. Os resultados podem ser vistos na demanda crescente pela busca dos serviços e na criação de uma nova disciplina para os cursos de licenciatura oferecidos pela UFF. Todo o trabalho é gratuito. Nas Considerações Finais aponta-se a interface do PAAAH/SD com o recém criado Programa Escola de Inclusão. Pela Escola de Inclusão, que oferece cursos de férias de Libras, Braille, Materiais Didáticos Acessíveis e passará a oferecer oficinas de Robótica Educativa, alunos diagnosticas com altas habilidades/superdotação e interessados nesta área realizarão protótipos eletrônicos, móveis. Estes serão interpretados pelos estudantes de Matemática e Física que tirarão as equações presentes nos modelos. Estes estudos começarão no segundo semestre de 2010 e nas férias de julho de 2011, todos os envolvidos levarão aos alunos com deficiência visual do Instituto Benjamin Constant suas experiências. São novas aprendizagens que favorecerão a construção de conhecimentos formais em Robótica Educativa, Matemática e Física além da formação de valores humanitários nos futuros professores da sociedade inclusiva brasileira.
(Pro)posições do Pacto Nacional pela Alfabetização na idade certa para a educação especial: uma proposta inclusiva?
Authors: Oliveira Marli Dos Santos de , Bezerra Giovani Ferreira
Published: October 2014

http://dx.doi.org/10.5902/1984686X9857
Perspectives on Physical Activity Among People with Multiple Sclerosis Who Are Wheelchair Users
Authors: Learmonth Yvonne C. , Rice Ian M. , Ostler Teresa , Rice Laura A. , Motl Robert W.
Published: October 2014

Background: People with advanced multiple sclerosis (MS) are less physically active than those with milder forms of the disease, and wheelchair use has a negative association with physical activity participation. Thus, wheelchair users with MS are doubly disadvantaged for accruing the benefits of physical activity and exercise. Appropriate physical activity and exercise interventions are needed for this population.

Methods: We undertook a qualitative study to explore the meanings, motivations, and outcomes of physical activity in wheelchair users with MS. We sought to understand daily opportunities to accumulate physical activity and exercise, and to identify perceived barriers, facilitators, and benefits that might inform the design of future interventions.

Results: We interviewed 15 wheelchair users (mean age, 52 ± 8.8 years; n = 12 women). Data were transcribed and analyzed to identify and explore common themes. Our first theme was the reduced opportunity to participate in physical activity due to participants' dependence on mobility devices, environmental adaptations, and tangible support. Our second theme was the importance of incorporating physical activity and exercise into the everyday environment, highlighting the need for adaptive exercise and accessible environments. This indicated the need to incorporate behavior change modulators into physical activity and exercise interventions for those with advanced MS. Health-care professionals played an important role in promoting increased physical activity and exercise participation in those with advanced MS.

Conclusions: Our findings may inform future interventions to increase initiation and maintenance of physical activity and exercise among people with advanced MS.
Meningitis in HIV‐positive patients in sub‐Saharan Africa: a review
Authors: Veltman Jennifer A , Bristow Claire C , Klausner Jeffrey D
Published: October 2014

Introduction

Meningitis is one of the leading causes of death among patients living with HIV in sub‐Saharan Africa. There is no widespread tracking of the incidence rates of causative agents among patients living with HIV, yet the aetiologies of meningitis are different than those of the general population.

Methods

We reviewed the scientific literature published in PubMed to determine the incidence rates of meningitis among hospitalized people living with HIV in sub‐Saharan Africa and report our findings from seven studies across sub‐Saharan Africa.

Results

We found high rates of cryptococcal meningitis (19–68%). Tuberculous meningitis was lower (1–36%), although some centres included possible cases as “other” meningitis; therefore, this may not be a true representation of the total cases. Pyogenic meningitis ranged from 6 to 30% and “other” meningitis ranged from 7 to 28% of all reported cases of meningitis. Mortality rates ranged from 25 to 68%. This review describes the most common aetiologies and provides practical diagnostic, treatment and prevention considerations as they apply to the individual living with HIV in sub‐Saharan Africa.

Conclusions

Diagnosis is often limited, and wider availability of accurate and low‐cost laboratory diagnostics is desperately needed for prompt diagnosis and initiation of appropriate treatment. Wider acceptance and adoption of available preventative modalities can decrease the incidence of potentially fatal central nervous system infections in African patients living with HIV.
The membrane-associated proteins FCHo and SGIP are allosteric activators of the AP2 clathrin adaptor complex
Authors: Hollopeter Gunther , Lange Jeffrey J , Zhang Ying , Vu Thien N , Gu Mingyu , Ailion Michael , Lambie Eric J , Slaughter Brian D , Unruh Jay R , Florens Laurence , Jorgensen Erik M
Published: October 2014

The AP2 clathrin adaptor complex links protein cargo to the endocytic machinery but it is unclear how AP2 is activated on the plasma membrane. Here we demonstrate that the membrane-associated proteins FCHo and SGIP1 convert AP2 into an open, active conformation. We screened for Caenorhabditis elegans mutants that phenocopy the loss of AP2 subunits and found that AP2 remains inactive in fcho-1 mutants. A subsequent screen for bypass suppressors of fcho-1 nulls identified 71 compensatory mutations in all four AP2 subunits. Using a protease-sensitivity assay we show that these mutations restore the open conformation in vivo. The domain of FCHo that induces this rearrangement is not the F-BAR domain or the µ-homology domain, but rather is an uncharacterized 90 amino acid motif, found in both FCHo and SGIP proteins, that directly binds AP2. Thus, these proteins stabilize nascent endocytic pits by exposing membrane and cargo binding sites on AP2.
A clathrin coat assembly role for the muniscin protein central linker revealed by TALEN-mediated gene editing
Authors: Umasankar Perunthottathu K , Ma Li , Thieman James R , Jha Anupma , Doray Balraj , Watkins Simon C , Traub Linton M
Published: October 2014

Clathrin-mediated endocytosis is an evolutionarily ancient membrane transport system regulating cellular receptivity and responsiveness. Plasmalemma clathrin-coated structures range from unitary domed assemblies to expansive planar constructions with internal or flanking invaginated buds. Precisely how these morphologically-distinct coats are formed, and whether all are functionally equivalent for selective cargo internalization is still disputed. We have disrupted the genes encoding a set of early arriving clathrin-coat constituents, FCHO1 and FCHO2, in HeLa cells. Endocytic coats do not disappear in this genetic background; rather clustered planar lattices predominate and endocytosis slows, but does not cease. The central linker of FCHO proteins acts as an allosteric regulator of the prime endocytic adaptor, AP-2. By loading AP-2 onto the plasma membrane, FCHO proteins provide a parallel pathway for AP-2 activation and clathrin-coat fabrication. Further, the steady-state morphology of clathrin-coated structures appears to be a manifestation of the availability of the muniscin linker during lattice polymerization.
Impact of Weddell Sea deep convection on natural and anthropogenic carbon in a climate model
Authors: Bernardello Raffaele , Marinov Irina , Palter Jaime B. , Galbraith Eric D. , Sarmiento Jorge L.
Published: October 2014

A climate model is used to investigate the influence of Weddell Sea open ocean deep convection on anthropogenic and natural carbon uptake for the period 1860–2100. In a three‐member ensemble climate change simulation, convection ceases on average by year 1981, weakening the net oceanic cumulative uptake of atmospheric CO2 by year 2100 (−4.3 Pg C) relative to an ocean that has continued convection. This net weakening results from a decrease in anthropogenic carbon uptake (−10.1 Pg C), partly offset by an increase in natural carbon storage (+5.8 Pg C). Despite representing only 4% of its area, the Weddell Sea is responsible for 22% of the Southern Ocean decrease in total climate‐driven carbon uptake and 52% of the decrease in the anthropogenic component of oceanic uptake. Although this is a model‐specific result, it illustrates the potential of deep convection to produce an intermodel spread in future projections of ocean carbon uptake.
Severe convection and lightning in subtropical South America
Authors: Rasmussen Kristen L. , Zuluaga Manuel D. , Houze Robert A.
Published: October 2014

Satellite radar and radiometer data show that subtropical South America has the world's deepest convective storms, robust mesoscale convective systems, and very frequent large hail. We determine severe weather characteristics for the most intense precipitation features seen by satellite in this region. In summer, hail and lightning concentrate over the foothills of western Argentina. Lightning has a nocturnal maximum associated with storms having deep and mesoscale convective echoes. In spring, lightning is maximum to the east in association with storms having mesoscale structure. A tornado alley is over the Pampas, in central Argentina, distant from the maximum hail occurrence, in association with extreme storms. In summer, flash floods occur over the Andes foothills associated with storms having deep convective cores. In spring, slow‐rise floods occur over the plains with storms of mesoscale dimension. This characterization of high‐impact weather in South America provides crucial information for socioeconomic implications and public safety.
Biological ice nucleation initiates hailstone formation
Authors: Michaud Alexander B. , Dore John E. , Leslie Deborah , Lyons W. Berry , Sands David C. , Priscu John C.
Published: October 2014

Cloud condensation and ice nuclei in the troposphere are required precursors to cloud and precipitation formation, both of which influence the radiative balance of Earth. The initial stage of hailstone formation (i.e., the embryo) and the subsequent layered growth allow hail to be used as a model for the study of nucleation processes in precipitation. By virtue of the preserved particle and isotopic record captured by hailstones, they represent a unique form of precipitation that allows direct characterization of the particles present during atmospheric ice nucleation. Despite the ecological and economic consequences of hail storms, the dynamics of hailstone nucleation, and thus their formation, are not well understood. Our experiments show that hailstone embryos from three Rocky Mountain storms contained biological ice nuclei capable of freezing water at warm, subzero (°C) temperatures, indicating that biological particles can act as nucleation sites for hailstone formation. These results are corroborated by analysis of δD and δ18O from melted hailstone embryos, which show that the hailstones formed at similarly warm temperatures in situ. Low densities of ice nucleation active abiotic particles were also present in hailstone embryos, but their low concentration indicates they were not likely to have catalyzed ice formation at the warm temperatures determined from water stable isotope analysis. Our study provides new data on ice nucleation occurring at the bottom of clouds, an atmospheric region whose processes are critical to global climate models but which has challenged instrument‐based measurements.
The blue water footprint and land use of biofuels from algae
Authors: Gerbens‐Leenes P. W. , Xu L. , de Vries G. J. , Hoekstra A. Y.
Published: October 2014

Biofuels from microalgae are potentially important sources of liquid renewable energy. Algae are not yet produced on a large scale, but research shows promising results. This study assesses the blue water footprint (WF) and land use of algae‐based biofuels. It combines the WF concept with an energy balance approach to determine the blue WF of net energy. The study considers open ponds and closed photobioreactors (PBRs). All systems have a positive energy balance, with output‐input ratios ranging between 1.13 and 1.98. This study shows that the WF of algae‐based biofuels lies between 8 and 193 m3/GJ net energy provided. The land use of microalgal biofuels ranges from 20 to 200 m2/GJ net energy. For a scenario in which algae‐based biofuels provide 3.5% of the transportation fuels in the European Union in 2030, the system with the highest land productivity needs 17,000 km2 to produce the 850 PJ/yr. Producing all algae‐based biofuels through the system with the highest water productivity would lead to a blue WF of 7 Gm3/yr, which is equivalent to 15% of the present blue WF in the EU28. A transition to algae‐based transportation fuels will substantially increase competition over water and land resources.
Endomicroscopy and electromyography of neuromuscular junctions in situ
Authors: Brown Rosalind , Dissanayake Kosala N. , Skehel Paul A. , Ribchester Richard R
Published: October 2014

Objective

Electromyography (EMG) is used routinely to diagnose neuromuscular dysfunction in a wide range of peripheral neuropathies, myopathies, and neuromuscular degenerative diseases including motor neuron diseases such as amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). Definitive neurological diagnosis may also be indicated by the analysis of pathological neuromuscular innervation in motor‐point biopsies. Our objective in this study was to preempt motor‐point biopsy by combining live imaging with electrophysiological analysis of slow degeneration of neuromuscular junctions (NMJs) in vivo.

Methods

We combined conventional needle electromyography with fiber‐optic confocal endomicroscopy (CEM), using an integrated hand‐held, 1.5‐mm‐diameter probe. We utilized as a test bed, various axotomized muscles in the hind limbs of anaesthetized, double‐homozygous thy1.2YFP16: WldS mice, which coexpress the Wallerian‐degeneration Slow (WldS) protein and yellow fluorescent protein (YFP) in motor neurons. We also tested exogenous vital stains, including Alexa488‐α‐bungarotoxin; the styryl pyridinium dye 4‐Di‐2‐Asp; and a GFP conjugate of botulinum toxin Type A heavy chain (GFP‐HcBoNT/A).

Results

We show that an integrated EMG/CEM probe is effective in longitudinal evaluation of functional and morphological changes that take place over a 7‐day period during axotomy‐induced, slow neuromuscular synaptic degeneration. EMG amplitude declined in parallel with overt degeneration of motor nerve terminals. EMG/CEM was safe and effective when nerve terminals and motor endplates were selectively stained with vital dyes.

Interpretation

Our findings constitute proof‐of‐concept, based on live imaging in an animal model, that combining EMG/CEM may be useful as a minimally invasive precursor or alternative to motor‐point biopsy in neurological diagnosis and for monitoring local administration of potential therapeutics.
Two Dosing Regimens of Certolizumab Pegol in Patients With Active Rheumatoid Arthritis
Authors: Furst D. E. , Shaikh S. A. , Greenwald M. , Bennett B. , Davies O. , Luijtens K. , Staelens F. , Koetse W. , Bertin P.
Published: October 2014

Objective

To investigate clinical efficacy and safety of 2 certolizumab pegol (CZP) maintenance dosing regimens plus methotrexate (MTX) in active rheumatoid arthritis (RA) patients achieving the American College of Rheumatology 20% improvement criteria (ACR20) after the CZP 200 mg every 2 weeks open‐label run‐in period.

Methods

DOSEFLEX (dosing flexibility) was a double‐blind, placebo‐controlled randomized study with an open‐label run‐in phase. During the run‐in phase, all patients received CZP 400 mg (weeks 0, 2, and 4) and 200 mg every 2 weeks to week 16. Week 16 ACR20 responders were randomized 1:1:1 at week 18 to CZP 200 mg every 2 weeks, 400 mg every 4 weeks, or placebo.

Results

A total of 209 (of 333) patients were randomized at week 18 (CZP: 200 mg, n = 70; 400 mg, n = 70; placebo, n = 69). Groups had similar baseline characteristics (week 0). Week 34 ACR20 response rates were comparable between the CZP 200 mg every 2 weeks and the 400 mg every 4 weeks groups (67.1% versus 65.2%), which was significantly higher than placebo (44.9%; P = 0.009 and P = 0.017). ACR50/70 and remission criteria were met more frequently in CZP groups than placebo at week 34, with similar responses between anti–tumor necrosis factor–experienced and naive patients. Improvements from baseline Disease Activity Score in 28 joints using the erythrocyte sedimentation rate and Health Assessment Questionnaire disability index scores were maintained in CZP groups from week 16 to 34 while worsening on placebo. Adverse event (AE) rates in the double‐blind phase were 62.9% versus 60.9% versus 62.3%; serious AE rates were 7.1% versus 2.9% versus 0.0% (CZP 200 mg, 400 mg, and placebo groups).

Conclusion

In active RA patients with an incomplete MTX response, CZP 200 mg every 2 weeks and 400 mg every 4 weeks were comparable and better than placebo for maintaining clinical response to week 4 following a 16‐week, open‐label run‐in phase.
Intracellular Reduction‐Responsive Sheddable Copolymer Micelles for Targeted Anticancer Drug Delivery
Authors: Zhang Yuanyuan , Qu Qiuyu , Li Menghuan , Zhao Yanli
Published: October 2014

Intracellular, reduction‐responsive, amphiphilic, copolymer micelles with cancer cell specificity were developed. The copolymer was prepared with controlled molecular weight and functionalities using a double‐headed initiator consisting of a disulfide linkage and folic acid targeting unit. The polymer could self‐assemble into spherical micelles, which were stable under physiological conditions. Anticancer drug doxorubicin (DOX) was encapsulated into the micelles during the micellization and then released rapidly into the environment under the stimulus of intracellular reducing agent glutathione. Flow cytometry and confocal laser scanning microscopy observations further indicated that DOX was successfully released from the internalized micelles into the cytoplasm, inducing apoptosis and cell death. The potential of the present copolymer micelles for application as anticancer drug carriers for targeted cancer therapy is promising.
Understanding the evolution of the windlass mechanism of the human foot from comparative anatomy: Insights, obstacles, and future directions
Authors: Griffin Nicole L. , Miller Charlotte E. , Schmitt Daniel , D'Août Kristiaan
Published: October 2014

Humans stand alone from other primates in that we propel our bodies forward on a relatively stiff and arched foot and do so by employing an anatomical arrangement of bones and ligaments in the foot that can operate like a “windlass.” This is a significant evolutionary innovation, but it is currently unknown when during hominin evolution this mechanism developed and within what genera or species it originated. The presence of recently discovered fossils along with novel research in the past two decades have improved our understanding of foot mechanics in humans and other apes, making it possible to consider this question more fully. Here we review the main elements thought to be involved in the production of an effective, modern human‐like windlass mechanism. These elements are the triceps surae, plantar aponeurosis, medial longitudinal arch, and metatarsophalangeal joints. We discuss what is presently known about the evolution of these features and the challenges associated with identifying each of these specific components and/or their function in living and extinct primates for the purpose of predicting the presence of the windlass mechanism in our ancestors. In some cases we recommend alternative pathways for inferring foot mechanics and for testing the hypothesis that the windlass mechanism evolved to increase the speed and energetic efficiency of bipedal gait in hominins. Am J Phys Anthropol 156:1–10, 2015 © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Formation of continuous dense polymer layer at the surface of hollow fiber using a photografting process
Authors: Lasseuguette Elsa , Rouch Jean‐Christophe , Remigy Jean‐Christophe
Published: October 2014

The surface modification of a PES hollow fiber by UV photografting has been investigated in order to graft a dense polymer layer. The study focused on a UV photografting process, starting from a monomer solution, enabling the thickness and regularity of the grafted polymer to be followed. 2‐(Acryloyloxy)ethyl trimethylammonium chloride was polymerized on the surface of the PES membrane. Modified membranes were characterized by SEM, FTIR spectroscopy, and liquid and gas permeability. A dense layer of poly(2‐(acryloyloxy)ethyl trimethylammonium chloride) was obtained when a photoinitiator and a photocrosslinker were used. Polymerization of the ammonium material also occurred inside the pores of the membrane. With pretreatment and an increase of the irradiation time, the thickness of the grafted polymer decreased and gas permeability reached measurable levels. However, a CO2/N2 selectivity of around 1 was found which suggested the presence of defects in the grafted layer. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2015, 132, 41514.
Brief Report: Genome‐Wide Association Study Identifies ITPR2 as a Susceptibility Gene for Kashin‐Beck Disease in Han Chinese
Authors: Zhang Feng , Wen Yan , Guo Xiong , Zhang Yingang , Wang Xi , Yang Tielin , Shen Hui , Chen Xiangding , Tian Qing , Deng Hong‐Wen
Published: October 2014

Objective

Kashin‐Beck disease (KBD) is a chronic osteochondropathy, the pathogenesis of which remains elusive. The aim of this study was to identify susceptibility genes for KBD by conducting a 2‐stage genome‐wide association study (GWAS).

Methods

Ninety patients with grade II or grade III KBD with extreme KBD phenotypes and 1,627 healthy control subjects were enrolled in the initial GWAS. Affymetrix Genome‐Wide Human SNP Array 6.0 was used for genotyping. For the replication study, 9 single‐nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) of the significant gene identified by the GWAS (ITPR2) were tested in an independent validation sample composed of 559 patients with KBD and 467 healthy control subjects.

Results

The GWAS identified significant association (P = 1.58 × 10−8) between KBD and a novel locus, ITPR2 SNP rs10842750. The replication study showed significant associations with KBD at 9 ITPR2 SNPs, including rs10842750 (P = 5.97 × 10−3), rs16931011 (P = 1.29 × 10−3), rs1531928 (P = 4.95 × 10−3), rs4414322 (P = 4.40 × 10−3), rs11048570 (P = 4.53 × 10−3), rs11048572 (P = 4.43 × 10−3), rs2017510 (P = 4.58 × 10−3), rs9669395 (P = 5.77 × 10−3), and rs1002835 (P = 4.85 × 10−3). In patients with KBD, the genotype score for rs10842750 was also correlated with KBD clinical severity grades (P = 0.013).

Conclusion

Our results strongly suggest that ITPR2 is a novel susceptibility gene for KBD in Han Chinese. This study may provide new insights into the pathogenesis and rationale for treatment of KBD as well as other osteoarthritides with similar articular cartilage lesions.
Verification Theorem Of Stochastic Optimal Control With Mixed Delay And Applications To Finance
Authors: Zhu Wenli , Zhang Zisha
Published: October 2014

This paper focuses on a general model of a controlled stochastic differential equation with mixed delay in the state variable. Based on the Itô formula, stochastic analysis, convex analysis, and inequality technique, we obtain a semi‐coupled forward‐backward stochastic differential equation with mixed delay and mixed initial‐terminal conditions and prove that such forward‐backward system admits a unique adapted solution. The verification theorem for an optimal control of a system with mixed delay is established. The obtained results generalize and improve some recent results, and they are more easily verified and applied in practice. As an application, we conclude with finding explicitly the optimal consumption rate from the wealth process of a person given by a stochastic differential equation with mixed delay which fit into our general model.
Bedarfsplanung und Grundlagenermittlung für WU‐Bauwerke
Authors: Bastert Heinrich , Fingerloos Frank , Kiltz Denis
Published: October 2014

Bei wasserundurchlässigen Bauwerken aus Beton übernimmt die Betonkonstruktion neben der tragenden auch die abdichtende Funktion gegenüber einer Feuchtebeanspruchung von außen. Die Weiße Wanne als im Erdreich eingebettetes wasserundurchlässiges Bauwerk aus Beton hat sich – nicht zuletzt durch Richtlinien, Merkblätter und zahlreiche Fachveröffentlichungen – als bewährte Bauweise etabliert. Daneben haben sich in den letzten Jahren Weiße Dächer als weitere mögliche wasserundurchlässige Betonbauteile immer mehr durchgesetzt.

WU‐Bauwerke sind komplexe Baukonstruktionen, die eine enge Abstimmung zwischen den Bauherrenwünschen, der Planung und der Bauausführung erfordern. Hieraus ergibt sich, dass bereits bei der Konzeption von WU‐Bauwerken die Anforderungen des Bauherrn berücksichtigt werden müssen. Zur systematischen Erfassung dieser Anforderungen bietet sich ein methodisches Vorgehen im Rahmen einer Bedarfsplanung für WU‐Bauwerke an, die sich darüber hinaus zur umfassenden Beratung des Bauherrn und zur anschließenden Dokumentation der Planungsziele auf Basis definierter Bauherrenwünsche eignet.

Brief for building design for waterproof concrete structures

Waterproof concrete structures are used in waterproof concrete tanks, waterproof roofs, and floors. These structures have been built successfully for more than four decades in the construction of buildings, industrial facilities etc. Beyond the design and construction principles of the code of practice this paper gives additional information about how to regard the client's expectations to his building.

The brief for building design or identification of needs is a recommended tool that is appropriate for waterproof concrete construction to systematically capture the needs of the client and to document them in a design brief.
Simultaneous quantification of olanzapine and its metabolite N‐desmethylolanzapine in human plasma by liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry for therapeutic drug monitoring
Authors: Lou Hong‐gang , Ruan Zou‐rong , Jiang Bo. , Chen Jin‐liang
Published: October 2014

A simple, sensitive, and selective liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry (LC‐MS/MS) method was developed and validated for the simultaneous quantification of olanzapine (OLZ) and its metabolite N‐desmethylolanzapine (DMO) in human plasma for therapeutic drug monitoring. Sample preparation was performed by one‐step protein precipitation with methanol. The analytes were chromatographed on a reversed‐phase YMC‐ODS‐AQ C18 Column (2.0 × 100 mm,3 µm) by a gradient program at a flow rate of 0.30 mL/min. Quantification was performed on a triple quadrupole tandem mass spectrometer via electrospray ionization in positive ion mode. The method was validated for selectivity, linearity, accuracy, precision, matrix effect, recovery and stability. The calibration curve was linear over the concentration range 0.2–120 ng/mL for OLZ and 0.5–50 ng/mL for DMO. Intra‐ and interday precisions for OLZ and DMO were <11.29%, and the accuracy ranged from 95.23 to 113.16%. The developed method was subsequently applied to therapeutic drug monitoring for psychiatric patients receiving therapy of OLZ tablets. The method seems to be suitable for therapeutic drug monitoring of patients undergoing therapy with OLZ and might contribute to prediction of the risk of adverse reactions. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Prevalence of Intrafamilial Child Maltreatment in the Nordic countries: A Review
Authors: Kloppen Kathrine , Mæhle Magne , Kvello Øyvind , Haugland Siren , Breivik Kyrre
Published: October 2014

There are differences in the prevalence rates of child maltreatment between countries, as well as variation in how these rates change over time. This review examined the prevalence of different forms of intrafamilial child maltreatment in the Nordic countries and possible changes in the prevalence rates over the past two decades. We conducted a systematic search of the databases PsycInfo, ISI Web of Science and PubMed and of self‐report studies investigating the prevalence of one or several forms of child maltreatment in non‐clinical samples published from 1990 to the present. In addition, we searched for unpublished reports. A total of 24 Nordic studies were included. The findings suggest a prevalence of child sexual abuse by a parent in the range of 0.2–1.2 per cent, a prevalence of severe physical abuse in the range of three to nine per cent and a prevalence of witnessing domestic violence in the range of seven to 12, 5 per cent in the Nordic countries. Markedly more girls than boys were exposed to sexual abuse. The results indicate a decline in the prevalence of sexual abuse by a relative and of parental physical abuse over the past 20 years, but no corresponding changes in the prevalence of witnessing domestic violence. There is a lack of studies on the prevalence of neglect and emotional maltreatment. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

‘A total of 24 Nordic studies were included’

Key Practitioner Messages:

Knowledge of intrafamilial child abuse and witnessing domestic violence in the Nordic countries is expanded.

Prevalence studies not published in the international scientific literature are included. Time trends in prevalence rates are shown.

Differences between Nordic prevalence rates and the rates found in high‐income countries as a whole are explored and discussed.

Attention is drawn to the influence of contextual factors on the prevalence of child maltreatment.

‘Attention is drawn to the influence of contextual factors on the prevalence of child maltreatment.’
Giant left‐sided inguinoscrotal hernia containing the cecum and appendix (giant left‐sided Amyand's hernia)
Authors: Maeda Kenichi , Kunieda Katsuyuki , Kawai Masahiko , Nagao Narutoshi , Tanaka Chihiro , Oida Yasuhisa , Kiyama Shigeru , Tawada Masahiro
Published: October 2014

Key Clinical Message

The present case involved a 62‐year‐old male with a large left‐sided inguinoscrotal hernia. A CT scan and a clinical examination led to a diagnosis of a giant left‐sided Amyand's hernia. The hernia was repaired using the ULTRAPRO Hernia System (UHS), and the patient exhibited an uneventful postoperative course.
Template‐Induced Diverse Metal–Organic Materials as Catalysts for the Tandem Acylation–Nazarov Cyclization
Authors: Huang Chao , Ding Ran , Song Chuanjun , Lu Jingjing , Liu Lu , Han Xiao , Wu Jie , Hou Hongwei , Fan Yaoting
Published: October 2014

In our continuing quest to develop a metal–organic framework (MOF)‐catalyzed tandem pyrrole acylation–Nazarov cyclization reaction with α,β‐unsaturated carboxylic acids for the synthesis of cyclopentenone[b]pyrroles, which are key intermediates in the synthesis of natural product (±)‐roseophilin, a series of template‐induced Zn‐based (1–3) metal‐organic frameworks (MOFs) have been solvothermally synthesized and characterized. Structural conversions from non‐porous MOF 1 to porous MOF 2, and back to non‐porous MOF 3 arising from the different concentrations of template guest have been observed. The anion–π interactions between the template guests and ligands could affect the configuration of ligands and further tailor the frameworks of 1–3. Futhermore, MOFs 1–3 have shown to be effective heterogeneous catalysts for the tandem acylation–Nazarov cyclization reaction. In particular, the unique structural features of 2, including accessible catalytic sites and suitable channel size and shape, endow 2 with all of the desired features for the MOF‐catalyzed tandem acylation–Nazarov cyclization reaction, including heterogeneous catalyst, high catalytic activity, robustness, and excellent selectivity. A plausible mechanism for the catalytic reaction has been proposed and the structure–reactivity relationship has been further clarified. Making use of 2 as a heterogeneous catalyst for the reaction could greatly increase the yield of total synthesis of (±)‐roseophilin.