bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Analysis of short reflective narratives: a method for the study of knowledge in social workers’ actions
Authors: Nygren Lennart , Blom Björn
Published: April 2009

This article describes and discusses a method for analysing and working with short reflective narratives. The method is inspired by the interpretation theory of Paul Ricoeur, and applied to short written stories where social work students reflect on situations from their field studies - situations they experienced as critical or problematic. The article starts with a discussion about the need to develop complementary methods in narrative research. This is followed by an argument for written narratives as an alternative research approach. A pilot study of 14 narratives from social work students containing critical or problematic events is then presented with a focus on the analysing process. The analysis is evaluated as focused and manageable, easy to combine with quantitative analyses and it appears to generate findings in a form that is easy to publish. It provides a shortcut to a deeper understanding of both the narrative and the narrator. On the negative side, the method using written narratives has potential risks of ‘over-interpretation’, and the loss of the ‘midwife’ effect that can appear in an oral interview.
The reconsidered model of membership categorization analysis
Authors: Housley William , Fitzgerald Richard
Published: April 2009

This article briefly investigates the role that ethno-methodology has played in sociological analyses of language and interaction. The work of Harvey Sacks is investigated in relation to membership categorization and the analysis of talk-in-interaction. More specifically, the authors focus on how this strand of work has been developed in recent years and now represents a powerful apparatus for conducting sociological analyses of interaction in a diverse range of settings in a way that is sensitive to issues related to social organization, normativity, identity, macro-micro synthesis, knowledge and developments in social theory.
Negotiating the swamp: the opportunity and challenge of reflexivity in research practice
Authors: Finlay Linda
Published: April 2009

How should researchers reflexively evaluate ways in which intersubjective elements transform their research? The process of engaging in reflexivity is full of muddy ambiguity and multiple trails as researchers negotiate the swamp of interminable deconstructions, self analysis and self disclosure. This article examines how researcher-explorers from a range of research traditions have negotiated this swamp in practice, by drawing on examples of their reflexive experience. ‘Maps’ are offered on five variants of reflexivity, namely: (i) introspection; (ii) intersubjective reflection; (iii) mutual collaboration; (iv) social critique; and (v) discursive deconstruction. The diversity of practice suggests competing, though also overlapping, accounts of the rationale and practice of reflexivity. In a critical celebration of the richness of reflexivity, this article aims to demonstrate how each way of approaching reflexivity offers different opportunities and challenges. It is hoped that the maps provided will enable researcher-explorers to choose their preferred route through the swamp. The discussion section, along with a ‘meta-reflexive voice’ threaded throughout, highlights the critical issues at stake when attempting reflexive analysis in practice.
The subject of painting: works by Barbara Walker and Eugene Palmer
Authors: Doy Gen
Published: April 2009

This article looks at some examples of recent paintings by black British artists in relation to postmodern notions of the decentred and fragmented self. If the so-called unified self is no longer present in contemporary culture, how are we to understand the continuing presence of (self) portraiture and portraiture of selves in contemporary artworks? The author investigates some of these issues in relation to works by Barbara Walker and Eugene Palmer. She also looks into some of the issues raised by postmodern critiques of notions of subjectivity, the self and agency in relation to artists whose work engages with lived identities and histories of people who are still recognized by themselves and others as members of oppressed social groups. The article concludes by suggesting that although notions of the self/subjectivity are complex and problematic in the paintings and discourse of these two artists, they do not conform to postmodern notions of the self, nor do they support arguments for ‘the death of the author’.
The map as a kind of talk: Brian Harley and the confabulation of the inner and outer voice
Authors: Wood Denis
Published: April 2009

The recent publication of a collection of critical essays by the late theoretician of cartography, Brian Harley, provides an occasion for reflecting on the nature of his contribution to our understanding of the map. Harley argued that the authority of the map derives from the erasure of its authorship, an authorship Harley understood to be diffused between the inner voice of the mapmaker (with his craft and knowledge) and the outer voice of the mapmaker’s patron (with his capital and interests). As each attributes the map to the other, both disappear. The effect is to naturalize the map as an (unauthored and so) objective image of the world as it is. Harley’s argument is relevant to anyone who makes things for others, including the author of this abstract.
The move from page to screen: the multimodal reshaping of school English
Authors: Jewitt Carey
Published: April 2009

In the move from page to screen a range of representational modes (including image, movement, gesture, and voice) are available as meaning-making resources. This article focuses on the reshaping of the entity ‘character’ in the transformation of the novel Of Mice and Men (Steinbeck, 1937) to CD-ROM (1996). Through detailed analysis the article demonstrates that the shift from written page to multimodal screen entails a shift in the construction of the entity ‘character’. It is also suggested that students’ interaction with the resources of the CD-ROM as a visual text demand that ‘reading’ and the process of learning within school English be thought of as more than a linguistic accomplishment.
“Giving It Space”
Authors: Jourdain Rebekah L. , Dulin Patrick L.
Published: April 2009

Most psychotherapeutic approaches have been developed for problems that have an “irrational” or “pathological” foundation. These approaches often fit poorly with psychological distress that stems from cognitions that are based in reality and may need to be accepted rather than changed. Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) is currently being applied to a number of conditions, but may be particularly useful in situations where cognitive change is not warranted. This study examined ACT with an older male of Māori descent experiencing high levels of health anxiety resulting from prior nuclear testing exposure while in the military. Results of self-report measures administered at baseline, during treatment, post-treatment, and at 6-week follow-up indicated clinically significant reductions in health anxiety, experiential avoidance, and overall distress. This case study has implications for the utility of ACT with individuals who are distressed about the real possibility that their health has been negatively affected by toxic exposure.
Enhancing the Therapy Relationship in Acceptance and Commitment Therapy for Psychotic Symptoms
Authors: Baruch David E. , Kanter Jonathan W. , Busch Andrew M. , Juskiewicz Kristin L.
Published: April 2009

The article demonstrates how acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT) may effectively alter the function of positive psychotic symptoms and how functional analytic psychotherapy (FAP) may provide a complimentary framework for interpersonal change. ACT differs with many psychosis approaches in that it does not attempt to reduce psychotic symptoms; instead, it aims to increase psychological flexibility (e.g., acceptance) in the presence of psychotic symptoms while actively pursuing valued living. The study involves, John, a 21-year-old college student, who presented with depressive symptoms, delusional and brief visual hallucinatory episodes, and severe social isolation. ACT interventions emphasize acceptance of, and mindful reactions to, psychotic symptoms while pursuing valued life goals. As John's main goal of treatment was to develop more intimate interpersonal relationships, FAP techniques were introduced as behaviors that seemed to be distancing him from peers manifested themselves in session. The benefits and challenges of integrating ACT and FAP are discussed.
Come A Little Closer: Citizens, Law, and Identification
Authors: Kirkpatrick Jennet
Published: April 2009

What should the relationship between citizens and the law in a liberal democracy look like? The idea that citizens should be associated with the laws that govern them is a cornerstone of democratic theory. Yet the specific nature of this relationship has varied widely in theory and practice. I examine one conceptualization of this relationship: the notion that democratic citizens should substantively identify with the law and see their preferences, will, or morality in it. This kind of civic identification with the law is suggested in Carl Schmitt's The Crisis of Parliamentary Democracy. Schmitt's text points both to the seductive appeal of civic identification with the law and to its pernicious potential.
Dual role of collagen in factor XII–dependent thrombus formation
Authors: van der Meijden Paola E. J. , Munnix Imke C. A. , Auger Jocelyn M. , Govers-Riemslag José W. P. , Cosemans Judith M. E. M. , Kuijpers Marijke J. E. , Spronk Henri M. , Watson Steve P. , Renné Thomas , Heemskerk Johan W. M.
Published: April 2009

In vivo mouse models have indicated that the intrinsic coagulation pathway, initiated by factor XII, contributes to thrombus formation in response to major vascular damage. Here, we show that fibrillar type I collagen provoked a dose-dependent shortening of the clotting time of human plasma via activation of factor XII. This activation was mediated by factor XII binding to collagen. Factor XII activation also contributed to the stimulating effect of collagen on thrombin generation in plasma, and increased the effect of platelets via glycoprotein VI activation. Furthermore, in flow-dependent thrombus formation under coagulant conditions, collagen promoted the appearance of phosphatidylserine-exposing platelets and the formation of fibrin. Defective glycoprotein VI signaling (with platelets deficient in LAT or phospholipase Cγ2) delayed and suppressed phosphatidylserine exposure and thrombus formation. Markedly, these processes were also suppressed by absence of factor XII or XI, whereas blocking of tissue factor/factor VIIa was of little effect. Together, these results point to a dual role of collagen in thrombus formation: stimulation of glycoprotein VI signaling via LAT and PLCγ2 to form procoagulant platelets; and activation of factor XII to stimulate thrombin generation and potentiate the formation of platelet-fibrin thrombi.
A novel deletion mutation is recurrent in von Willebrand disease types 1 and 3
Authors: Sutherland Megan S. , Cumming Anthony M. , Bowman Mackenzie , Bolton-Maggs Paula H. B. , Bowen Derrick J. , Collins Peter W. , Hay Charles R. M. , Will Andrew M. , Keeney Stephen
Published: April 2009

Direct sequencing of VWF genomic DNA in 21 patients with type 3 von Willebrand disease (VWD) failed to reveal a causative homozygous or compound heterozygous VWF genotype in 5 cases. Subsequent analysis of VWF mRNA led to the discovery of a deletion (c.221-977_532 + 7059del [p.Asp75_Gly178del]) of VWF in 7 of 12 white type 3 VWD patients from 6 unrelated families. This deletion of VWF exons 4 and 5 was absent in 9 patients of Asian origin. We developed a genomic DNA-based assay for the deletion, which also revealed its presence in 2 of 34 type 1 VWD families, segregating with VWD in an autosomal dominant fashion. The deletion was associated with a specific VWF haplotype, indicating a possible founder origin. Expression studies indicated markedly decreased secretion and defective multimerization of the mutant VWF protein. Further studies have found the mutation in additional type 1 VWD patients and in a family expressing both type 3 and type 1 VWD. The c.221-977_532 + 7059del mutation represents a previously unreported cause of both types 1 and 3 VWD. Screening for this mutation in other type 1 and type 3 VWD patient populations is required to elucidate further its overall contribution to VWD arising from quantitative deficiencies of VWF.
Discerning regulation of cis- and trans-presentation of CD8+ T-cell epitopes by EBV-encoded oncogene LMP-1 through self-aggregation
Authors: Smith Corey , Wakisaka Naohiro , Crough Tania , Peet Jesse , Yoshizaki Tomokazu , Beagley Leone , Khanna Rajiv
Published: April 2009

Activation of the nuclear factor–κB pathway by Epstein-Barr virus–encoded latent membrane protein-1 (LMP-1) leads to an up-regulation of the major histocompatibility complex class I antigen–processing pathway. Paradoxically, LMP-1 itself induces a subdominant CD8+ T-cell response and appears to have evolved to avoid immune recognition. Here we show that, although expression of LMP-1 in human cells dramatically enhanced the trans-presentation of CD8+ T-cell epitopes, cis-presentation of LMP-1–derived epitopes was severely impaired. Testing of a series of LMP-1 mutants revealed that deletion of the first transmembrane domain of LMP-1, which prevented self-aggregation, significantly enhanced cis-presentation of T-cell epitopes from this protein, whereas it lost its ability to up-regulate trans-presentation. Interestingly, we also found that cis-presentation of LMP-1 epitopes was rescued by blocking the proteasome function. Taken together, these results delineate a novel mechanism of immune evasion, which renders a virally encoded oncogene inaccessible to the conventional major histocompatibility complex class I pathway limiting its cis-presentation to effector cells.
Role of the 2 zebrafish survivingenes in vasculo-angiogenesis, neurogenesis, cardiogenesis and hematopoiesis
Authors: Delvaeye Mieke , De Vriese Astrid , Zwerts Femke , Betz Inge , Moons Michael , Autiero Monica , Conway Edward M
Published: April 2009

Background

Normal growth and development of organisms requires maintenance of a dynamic balance between systems that promote cell survival and those that induce apoptosis. The molecular mechanisms that regulate these processes remain poorly understood, and thus further in vivo study is required. Survivin is a member of the inhibitor of apoptosis protein (IAP) family, that uniquely also promotes mitosis and cell proliferation. Postnatally, survivin is hardly detected in most tissues, but is upregulated in all cancers, and as such, is a potential therapeutic target. Prenatally, survivin is also highly expressed in several tissues. Fully delineating the properties of survivin in vivo in mice has been confounded by early lethal phenotypes following survivin gene inactivation.

Results

To gain further insights into the properties of survivin, we used the zebrafish model. There are 2 zebrafish survivin genes (Birc5a and Birc5b) with overlapping expression patterns during early development, prominently in neural and vascular structures. Morpholino-induced depletion of Birc5a causes profound neuro-developmental, hematopoietic, cardiogenic, vasculogenic and angiogenic defects. Similar abnormalities, all less severe except for hematopoiesis, were evident with suppression of Birc5b. The phenotypes induced by morpholino knockdown of one survivin gene, were rescued by overexpression of the other, indicating that the Birc5 paralogs may compensate for each. The potent vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) also entirely rescues the phenotypes induced by depletion of either Birc5a and Birc5b, highlighting its multi-functional properties, as well as the power of the model in characterizing the activities of growth factors.

Conclusion

Overall, with the zebrafish model, we identify survivin as a key regulator of neurogenesis, vasculo-angiogenesis, hematopoiesis and cardiogenesis. These properties of survivin, which are consistent with those identified in mice, indicate that its functions are highly conserved across species, and point to the value of the zebrafish model in understanding the role of this IAP in the pathogenesis of human disease, and for exploring its potential as a therapeutic target.
Respiratory and haemodynamic changes during decremental open lung positive end-expiratory pressure titration in patients with acute respiratory distress syndrome
Authors: Gernoth Christian , Wagner Gerhard , Pelosi Paolo , Luecke Thomas
Published: April 2009

Introduction

To investigate haemodynamic and respiratory changes during lung recruitment and decremental positive end-expiratory pressure (PEEP) titration for open lung ventilation in patients with acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) a prospective, clinical trial was performed involving 12 adult patients with ARDS treated in the surgical intensive care unit in a university hospital.

Methods

A software programme (Open Lung Tool™) incorporated into a standard ventilator controlled the recruitment (pressure-controlled ventilation with fixed PEEP at 20 cmH2O and increased driving pressures at 20, 25 and 30 cmH2O for two minutes each) and PEEP titration (PEEP lowered by 2 cmH2O every two minutes, with tidal volume set at 6 ml/kg). The open lung PEEP (OL-PEEP) was defined as the PEEP level yielding maximum dynamic respiratory compliance plus 2 cmH2O. Gas exchange, respiratory mechanics and central haemodynamics using the Pulse Contour Cardiac Output Monitor (PiCCO™), as well as transoesophageal echocardiography were measured at the following steps: at baseline (T0); during the final recruitment step with PEEP at 20 cmH2O and driving pressure at 30 cmH2O, (T20/30); at OL-PEEP, following another recruitment manoeuvre (TOLP).

Results

The ratio of partial pressure of arterial oxygen (PaO2) to fraction of inspired oxygen (FiO2) increased from T0 to TOLP (120 ± 59 versus 146 ± 64 mmHg, P < 0.005), as did dynamic respiratory compliance (23 ± 5 versus 27 ± 6 ml/cmH2O, P < 0.005). At constant PEEP (14 ± 3 cmH2O) and tidal volumes, peak inspiratory pressure decreased (32 ± 3 versus 29 ± 3 cmH2O, P < 0.005), although partial pressure of arterial carbon dioxide (PaCO2) was unchanged (58 ± 22 versus 53 ± 18 mmHg). No significant decrease in mean arterial pressure, stroke volume or cardiac output occurred during the recruitment (T20/30). However, left ventricular end-diastolic area decreased at T20/30 due to a decrease in the left ventricular end-diastolic septal-lateral diameter, while right ventricular end-diastolic area increased. Right ventricular function, estimated by the right ventricular Tei-index, deteriorated during the recruitment manoeuvre, but improved at TOLP.

Conclusions

A standardised open lung strategy increased oxygenation and improved respiratory system compliance. No major haemodynamic compromise was observed, although the increase in right ventricular Tei-index and right ventricular end-diastolic area and the decrease in left ventricular end-diastolic septal-lateral diameter during the recruitment suggested an increased right ventricular stress and strain. Right ventricular function was significantly improved at TOLP compared with T0, although left ventricular function was unchanged, indicating effective lung volume optimisation.
Guanylyl Cyclase-A Inhibits Angiotensin II Type 2 Receptor-Mediated Pro-Hypertrophic Signaling in the Heart
Authors: Li Yuhao , Saito Yoshihiko , Kuwahara Koichiro , Rong Xianglu , Kishimoto Ichiro , Harada Masaki , Adachi Yuichiro , Nakanishi Michio , Kinoshita Hideyuki , Horiuchi Masatsugu , Murray Michael , Nakao Kazuwa
Published: April 2009

Angiotensin II plays a key role in the development of cardiac hypertrophy. The contribution of the angiotensin II type 1 receptor (AT1) in angiotensin II-induced cardiac hypertrophy is well established, but the role of AT2 signaling remains controversial. Previously, we have shown that natriuretic peptide receptor/guanylyl cyclase-A (GCA) signaling protects the heart from hypertrophy at least in part by inhibiting AT1-mediated pro-hypertrophic signaling. Here, we investigated the role of AT2 in cardiac hypertrophy observed in mice lacking GCA. Real-time RT-PCR and immunoblotting approaches indicated that the cardiac AT2 gene was overexpressed in GCA-deficient mice. Mice lacking AT2 alone did not exhibit an abnormal cardiac phenotype. In contrast, GCA-deficiency-induced increases in heart to body weight ratio, cardiomyocyte cross-sectional area, and collagen accumulation as evidenced by van Gieson staining were attenuated when AT2 was absent. Furthermore, the up-regulated cardiac expression of hypertrophy-related genes in GCA-null animals was also suppressed. Pharmacological blockade of AT2 with PD123319 similarly attenuated cardiac hypertrophy in GCA-deficient mice. In addition, whereas the AT1 antagonist olmesartan attenuated cardiac hypertrophy in GCA-deficient mice, this treatment was without effect on cardiac hypertrophy in GCA/AT2-double null mice, notwithstanding its potent antihypertensive effect in these animals. These results suggest that the interplay of AT2 and AT1 may be important in the development of cardiac hypertrophy. Collectively, our findings support the assertion that GCA inhibits AT2-mediated pro-hypertrophic signaling in heart and offer new insights into endogenous cardioprotective mechanisms during disease pathogenesis.
Expression of Ectodermal Neural Cortex 1 and Its Association with Actin during the Ovulatory Process in the Rat
Authors: Kim Sun-Gyun , Jang Soo-Jeong , Soh Jaemog , Lee Keesook , Park Jin-Ki , Chang Won-Kyong , Park Eung-Woo , Chun Sang-Young
Published: April 2009

Ectodermal neural cortex (ENC) 1, a member of the kelch family of genes, is an actin-binding protein and plays a pivotal role in neuronal and adipocyte differentiation. The present study was designed to examine the gonadotropin regulation and action of ENC1 during the ovulatory process in immature rats. The levels of ENC1 mRNA and protein were stimulated by LH/human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) within 3 h both in vivo and in vitro. In situ hybridization analysis revealed that ENC1 mRNA was localized not only in theca/interstitial cells but also in granulosa cells of preovulatory follicles but not of growing follicles in pregnant mare’s serum gonadotropin/hCG-treated ovaries. LH-induced ENC1 expression was suppressed by a high dose of protein kinase C inhibitor RO 31-8220 (10 μm) but not by low doses of RO 31-8220 (0.1–1.0 μm), suggesting the involvement of atypical protein kinase C. ENC1 was detected in both nucleus and cytoplasm that was increased by LH/hCG treatment. Both biochemical and morphological analysis revealed that LH/hCG treatment increased actin polymerization within 3 h in granulosa cells. Interestingly, ENC1 physically associated with actin and treatment with cytochalasin D, an actin-depolymerizing agent, abolished this association. Confocal microscopy further demonstrated the colocalization of ENC1 with filamentous actin (F-actin). The present study demonstrates that LH/hCG stimulates ENC1 expression and increases F-actin formation in granulosa cells. The present study further shows the physical association of ENC1 and F-actin, implicating the role of ENC1 in cytoskeletal reorganization during the differentiation of granulosa cells.
Endocannabinoids and Their Receptors as Targets for Obesity Therapy
Authors: de Kloet Annette D. , Woods Stephen C.
Published: April 2009

As the incidence of obesity continues to increase, the development of effective therapies is a high priority. The endocannabinoid system has emerged as an important influence on the regulation of energy homeostasis. The endocannabinoids anandamide and 2-arachidonoylglycerol act on cannabinoid receptor-1 (CB1) in the brain and many peripheral tissues causing a net anabolic action. This includes increasing food intake, and causing increased lipogenesis and fat storage in adipose tissue and liver. The endocannabinoid system is hyperactive in obese humans and animals, and treating them with CB1 antagonists causes weight loss and improved lipid and glucose profiles. Although clinical trials with CB1 antagonists have yielded beneficial metabolic effects, concerns about negative affect have limited the therapeutic potential of the first class of CB1 antagonists available.
ERK Signaling in the Pituitary Is Required for Female But Not Male Fertility
Authors: Bliss Stuart P. , Miller Andrew , Navratil Amy M. , Xie JianJun , McDonough Sean P. , Fisher Patricia J. , Landreth Gary E. , Roberson Mark S.
Published: April 2009

Males and females require different patterns of pituitary gonadotropin secretion for fertility. The mechanisms underlying these gender-specific profiles of pituitary hormone production are unknown; however, they are fundamental to understanding the sexually dimorphic control of reproductive function at the molecular level. Several studies suggest that ERK1 and -2 are essential modulators of hypothalamic GnRH-mediated regulation of pituitary gonadotropin production and fertility. To test this hypothesis, we generated mice with a pituitary-specific depletion of ERK1 and 2 and examined a range of physiological parameters including fertility. We find that ERK signaling is required in females for ovulation and fertility, whereas male reproductive function is unaffected by this signaling deficiency. The effects of ERK pathway ablation on LH biosynthesis underlie this gender-specific phenotype, and the molecular mechanism involves a requirement for ERK-dependent up-regulation of the transcription factor Egr1, which is necessary for LHβ expression. Together, these findings represent a significant advance in elucidating the molecular basis of gender-specific regulation of the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis and sexually dimorphic control of fertility.
Developmental adjustments of house sparrow (Passer domesticus)nestlings to diet composition
Authors: Brzęk Paweł , Kohl Kevin , Caviedes-Vidal Enrique , Karasov William H.
Published: April 2009

House sparrow nestlings are fed primarily on insects during the first 3 days of their life, and seeds become gradually more important afterwards. We tested whether developmental changes in size and functional capacity of the digestive tract in young house sparrows are genetically hard-wired and independent of diet, or can be modified by food type. Under laboratory conditions, we hand-fed young house sparrows with either a starch-free insect-like diet, based mainly on protein and fat, or a starch-containing diet with a mix of substrates similar to that offered to older nestlings in natural nests when they are gradually weaned from an insect to a seed diet. Patterns of overall development in body size and thermoregulatory ability, and in alimentary organ size increase, were relatively similar in house sparrow nestlings developing on both diets. However, total intestinal maltase activity, important in carbohydrate breakdown, was at least twice as high in house sparrow nestlings fed the starch-containing diet (P<0.001). The change in maltase activity of nestlings was specific, as no change occurred in aminopeptidase-N activity in the same tissues. There was no significant diet effect on digesta retention time, but assimilation efficiency for radiolabeled starch tended to be higher (P=0.054) in nestlings raised on starch-containing diet. Future studies must test whether the diet-dependent increase in maltase activity during development is irreversible or reversible, reflecting, respectively, a developmental plasticity or a phenotypic flexibility.
Wing and body motion during flight initiation inDrosophilarevealed by automated visual tracking
Authors: Fontaine Ebraheem I. , Zabala Francisco , Dickinson Michael H. , Burdick Joel W.
Published: April 2009

The fruit fly Drosophila melanogaster is a widely used model organism in studies of genetics, developmental biology and biomechanics. One limitation for exploiting Drosophila as a model system for behavioral neurobiology is that measuring body kinematics during behavior is labor intensive and subjective. In order to quantify flight kinematics during different types of maneuvers, we have developed a visual tracking system that estimates the posture of the fly from multiple calibrated cameras. An accurate geometric fly model is designed using unit quaternions to capture complex body and wing rotations, which are automatically fitted to the images in each time frame. Our approach works across a range of flight behaviors, while also being robust to common environmental clutter. The tracking system is used in this paper to compare wing and body motion during both voluntary and escape take-offs. Using our automated algorithms, we are able to measure stroke amplitude, geometric angle of attack and other parameters important to a mechanistic understanding of flapping flight. When compared with manual tracking methods, the algorithm estimates body position within 4.4±1.3%of the body length, while body orientation is measured within 6.5±1.9 deg. (roll), 3.2±1.3 deg. (pitch) and 3.4±1.6 deg. (yaw) on average across six videos. Similarly, stroke amplitude and deviation are estimated within 3.3 deg. and 2.1 deg., while angle of attack is typically measured within 8.8 deg. comparing against a human digitizer. Using our automated tracker, we analyzed a total of eight voluntary and two escape take-offs. These sequences show that Drosophila melanogaster do not utilize clap and fling during take-off and are able to modify their wing kinematics from one wingstroke to the next. Our approach should enable biomechanists and ethologists to process much larger datasets than possible at present and, therefore, accelerate insight into the mechanisms of free-flight maneuvers of flying insects.
Novel vocal repertoire and paired swimbladders of the three-spined toadfish,Batrachomoeus trispinosus: insights into the diversity of the Batrachoididae
Authors: Rice Aaron N. , Bass Andrew H.
Published: April 2009

Toadfishes (Teleostei: Batrachoididae) are one of the best-studied groups for understanding vocal communication in fishes. However, sounds have only been recorded from a low proportion of taxa within the family. Here, we used quantitative bioacoustic, morphological and phylogenetic methods to characterize vocal behavior and mechanisms in the three-spined toadfish, Batrachomoeus trispinosus. B. trispinosus produced two types of sound: long-duration `hoots' and short-duration `grunts' that were multiharmonic, amplitude and frequency modulated, with a dominant frequency below 1 kHz. Grunts and hoots formed four major classes of calls. Hoots were typically produced in succession as trains, while grunts occurred either singly or as grunt trains. Aside from hoot trains, grunts and grunt trains, a fourth class of calls consisted of single grunts with acoustic beats,apparently not previously reported for individuals from any teleost taxon. Beats typically had a predominant frequency around 2 kHz with a beat frequency around 300 Hz. Vocalizations also exhibited diel and lunar periodicities. Spectrographic cross-correlation and principal coordinates analysis of hoots from five other toadfish species revealed that B. trispinosus hoots were distinct. Unlike any other reported fish, B. trispinosus had a bilaterally divided swimbladder, forming two separate swimbladders. Phylogenetic analysis suggested B. trispinosus was a relatively basal batrachoidid, and the swimbladder and acoustic beats were independently derived. The swimbladder in B. trispinosus demonstrates that toadfishes have undergone a diversification of peripheral sonic mechanisms,which may be responsible for the concomitant innovations in vocal communication, namely the individual production of acoustic beats as reported in some tetrapods.
A points estimation and series approximation method for uncertainty analysis
Authors: Zhang X F , Zhao Y E , Zhang Y M , Huang X Z , Li H
Published: April 2009

The objective of this article is to present an algorithm for moment evaluation and probability density function approximation of performance function for structural reliability analysis. In doing so, a point estimation method for probability moment of performance function is discussed at first. Based on the coherent relationship between the orthogonal polynomial and probability density function, formulas for point estimation are derived. Vector operators are defined to alleviate computational burden for computer programming. Then, by utilizing C-type Gram—Charlier series expansion method, a procedure for probability density function approximation of the performance function is studied. At last, the accuracy of the proposed method is demonstrated using three numerical examples.
Optimal selection of precision points for function synthesis of spherical 4R linkage
Authors: Suixian Y , Hong Y , Tian G Y
Published: April 2009

In order to reduce synthesis error, a new approach is reported to select precision points for function synthesis of spherical 4R linkages. Based on a closed-form symbolic solution of the set of function synthesis equations of spherical 4R linkages, the structure error equation has been derived by introducing a scaling factor. After this, an optimization model was constructed to search for the precision points. The initial solution of the optimization model was chosen using a numerical interpolation method. The global optimal solution was obtained using the fractal algorithm. To illustrate this, an example is presented and discussed before finally deriving conclusions.
Optimal shape design of shoulder fillets for flat and round bars under various loadings
Authors: Sonmez F O
Published: April 2009

Fillets are usually the most critical regions in mechanical parts especially under fatigue loading, considering that an increase in the maximum stress level considerably shortens the fatigue life of a part. The aim of this study is to find the best shape for a fillet in a shouldered shaft or plate so that the maximum equivalent stress has the lowest possible value.

Optimization is achieved using a stochastic global search algorithm called the direct search simulated annealing. The boundary is defined using spline curves passing through a number of key points. The method is also applicable to shape optimization problems in which geometric constraints are imposed and, for this reason, tangential stress is not uniform along the optimal fillet boundary. Optimal shapes are obtained for flat and round bars subject to axial, bending, torsional, or combined loads. The results show that stress concentration factors close to one can be achieved even for bars with significant variations in cross-section. Besides, the region occupied by the optimum fillets is much smaller in comparison to circular or elliptical ones.
Robust control of the pressure in a control-cylinder with direct drive valve for the variable displacement axial piston pump
Authors: Park S-H , Lee J-M , Kim J-S
Published: April 2009

To achieve energy-efficient hydraulic systems, an accurate flowrate and pressure required by a load should be supplied to the systems. The discharge flow from the variable displacement swash-plate type axial piston pump is mainly determined by the angle of the swash-plate and it is adjusted by controlling the pressure in the control cylinder, which is a mechanical regulator for the swash-plate.

In this paper, a robust pressure control system of the control cylinder using a direct drive valve is proposed to control the discharge flow from the variable displacement swash-plate type axial piston pump precisely. In order to design a robust pressure control system, a mathematical model of a pressure control system is derived and system parameters are identified by using the signal-compression method. Also, the sliding mode controller is designed based on the identified mathematical model to guarantee the control performance of the pressure control system.

Experiments verified the satisfactory performance of the proposed pressure control system that uses a direct drive even with non-linearity and uncertainties such as flow characteristics, unknown discharge coefficient of the valve orifice, variation of the bulk-modulus, leakage, and disturbance induced by the pressure fluctuation in the pressure control system.
Co-occupancy of two Pumilio molecules on a single hunchback NRE
Authors: Gupta Yogesh K. , Lee Tammy H. , Edwards Thomas A. , Escalante Carlos R. , Kadyrova Lyudmila Y. , Wharton Robin P. , Aggarwal Aneel K.
Published: April 2009

Pumilio controls a number of processes in eukaryotes, including the translational repression of hunchback (hb) mRNA in early Drosophila embryos. The Pumilio Puf domain binds to a pair of 32 nucleotide (nt) Nanos response elements (NRE1 and NRE2) within the 3′ untranslated region of hb mRNA. Despite the elucidation of structures of human Pumilio Puf domain in complex with hb RNA elements, the nature of hb mRNA recognition remains unclear. In particular, the site that mediates regulation in vivo is significantly larger than the 8–10-nt RNA elements bound to single Puf molecules in crystal structures. Here we present biophysical and biochemical data that partially resolve the paradox. We show that each NRE is composed of two binding sites (Box A and Box B) and that two Puf domains can co-occupy a single NRE. The Puf domains have a higher affinity for the 3′ Box B site than the 5′ Box A site; binding to the intact NRE appears to be cooperative (at least in some experiments). We suggest that the 2 Pumilio:1 NRE complex is the functional regulatory unit in vivo.
Factor II- and factor Xa-inhibitors for prevention and treatment of thromboses / Faktor II- und Faktor Xa-Inhibitoren in der Prävention und Therapie von Thrombosen
Authors: Orth Matthias
Published: April 2009

The desired properties of an ideal anticoagulant should be reliable action, a defined, selective mode of action, a wide therapeutic window, and predictable pharmacokinetics. Numerous new substances were developed as a substitute for oral anticoagulants and heparins. Owing to their superiority in clinical studies, some of these drugs have already been approved. The hemostaseological laboratory is now challenged to detect a sufficient anticoagulation while avoiding bleeding by overdosing. The purpose of this review is to describe novel anticoagulants in current use and the possible tests for drug monitoring in heparin-induced thrombocytopenia and in the perioperative prevention of thromboses.
Prevalência e determinantes precoces dos transtornos mentais comuns na coorte de nascimentos de 1982, Pelotas, RS
Authors: Anselmi Luciana , Barros Fernando C , Minten Gicele C , Gigante Denise P , Horta Bernardo L , Victora Cesar G
Published: April 2009

OBJETIVO: Estimar a prevalência de transtornos mentais comuns e sua associação com fatores de risco numa coorte de adultos jovens. MÉTODOS: Estudo transversal aninhado à coorte de nascimentos de 1982 de Pelotas, RS. Em 2004-5, 4.297 indivíduos foram entrevistados em visita domiciliar. A probabilidade de transtornos mentais comuns foi estimada pelo Self-Report Questionnaire. Os fatores de risco incluíram variáveis socioeconômicas, demográficas, perinatais e ambientais. A análise foi estratificada por sexo e as razões de prevalência simples e ajustadas foram estimadas utilizando-se regressão de Poisson. RESULTADOS: A prevalência de transtornos mentais comuns na população geral foi 28,0%; 32,8% e 23,5%, respectivamente, entre mulheres e homens. Independentemente da pobreza em 1982, homens e mulheres pobres em 2004-5 apresentaram risco aproximado de 1,5 para esses transtornos (p<0,001), quando comparados aos que nunca foram pobres. Entre as mulheres, ter sido pobre na infância (p<0,001) e ter cor da pele preta ou parda (p=0,002) também aumentou o risco para transtornos mentais comuns. O baixo peso ao nascer e a duração da amamentação não estiveram associadas com o risco desses transtornos. CONCLUSÕES: A maior prevalência de transtornos mentais comuns nos indivíduos com baixa renda familiar e de minorias étnico-raciais mostra haver impacto das desigualdades sociais, presentes no nascimento, sobre esses transtornos.
Sensibilidade e especificidade de critérios de classificação do índice de massa corporal em adolescentes
Authors: Farias Júnior José Cazuza de , Konrad Lisandra Maria , Rabacow Fabiana Maluf , Grup Susane , Araújo Valbério Candido
Published: April 2009

OBJETIVO: Estimar a prevalência de excesso de peso em adolescentes conforme critérios de classificação do índice de massa corporal (IMC) e respectivas sensibilidade e especificidade. MÉTODOS: Foram realizadas medidas de peso, estatura e dobras cutâneas, subescapular e triciptal, em 934 adolescentes (masculino= 462 e feminino= 472) de 14 a 18 anos de idade (média= 16,2; dp= 1,0) da cidade de Florianópolis (SC), em 2001. O percentual de gordura estimado a partir das dobras cutâneas (e"25% no masculino e e"30% no feminino) foi utilizado como critério padrão-ouro para determinar a sensibilidade e especificidade dos critérios de classificação do IMC em adolescentes. RESULTADOS: A aplicação de diferentes pontos de corte de classificação do IMC, em geral, resultou em prevalências de excesso de peso similares (p>0,05). A sensibilidade dos critérios avaliados foi elevada nos adolescentes do sexo masculino (85,4% a 91,7%) e baixa nas do sexo feminino (33,8% a 52,8%). A especificidade foi elevada em todos os critérios, para ambos os sexos (83,6% a 98,8%). CONCLUSÕES: As estimativas de prevalência de excesso de peso pelos critérios de classificação do IMC em adolescentes foram similares e apresentaram especificidade elevada para ambos os sexos, mas baixa sensibilidade nos adolescentes do sexo feminino.
Fatores preditivos de incapacidades em pacientes com hanseníase
Authors: Gonçalves Soraya Diniz , Sampaio Rosana Ferreira , Antunes Carlos Maurício de Figueiredo
Published: April 2009

OBJETIVO:Analisar os fatores preditivos na evolução do grau de incapacidade em pacientes com hanseníase. MÉTODOS:Foram analisados dados de coorte retrospectiva, que acompanhou 595 pacientes com incapacidades, registrados em uma unidade de saúde de Belo Horizonte (MG), de 1993 a 2003. Informações sociodemográficas e clínicas dos pacientes foram coletadas dos respectivos prontuários. Comparou-se o grau de incapacidade na admissão e no final do tratamento por meio do teste de homogeneidade marginal. Para identificar os fatores associados à evolução do grau de incapacidade foram utilizadas as análises univariada (teste qui-quadrado de tendência linear) e multivariada pelo algoritmo Chi-square Automatic Interaction Detector. RESULTADOS:Dos casos com registro de grau de incapacidade na admissão e na alta, observou-se que 43,2% que tinham grau 1 na primeira avaliação evoluíram para grau 0. Dos que apresentavam grau 2, 21,3% passaram a ter grau 0 e 20% passaram a grau 1. Na análise univariada as variáveis que se mostraram estatisticamente associadas à evolução no grau de incapacidade foram: neurite, tempo até a ocorrência de neurite, número de nervos acometidos, tipo de tratamento fisioterápico e maior dose de prednisona. Na análise multivariada, o principal fator que se associou à evolução do grau de incapacidade foi o grau de incapacidade na admissão. CONCLUSÕES:Os resultados mostraram a importância do diagnóstico precoce de neuropatia, assim como da eficiente associação das intervenções medicamentosas e não-medicamentosas por meio das técnicas de prevenção de incapacidade e dosagens adequadas de corticoterapia.
Evidence of inadequate docosahexaenoic acid status in Brazilian pregnant and lactating women
Authors: Torres Alexandre G , Trugo Nádia M F
Published: April 2009

Recently published data concerning dietary intake of fat and food sources of (n-3) long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids (LCPUFA) in Brazil are reviewed together with data on biochemical indices of PUFA status during pregnancy and lactation and PUFA composition of breast milk in Brazilian adolescents and adults. Potential inadequacies of docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) status among Brazilian pregnant and lactating women have not yet been thoroughly evaluated. The data reviewed show that dietary intake of food sources of n-3 LCPUFA is low and possibly deficient in Brazil, and that biochemical indices of maternal DHA status and breast milk DHA content are low compared to the international literature. These data indicate inadequate DHA status among Brazilian women during pregnancy and lactation, but this evidence needs confirmation through comprehensive and specific population-based studies.
Prevalência e fatores associados ao baixo nível de atividade física entre estudantes universitários de uma universidade pública da região Nordeste - Brasil
Authors: Fontes Ana Cláudia Dias , Vianna Rodrigo Pinheiro Toledo
Published: April 2009

Os baixos níveis de atividade física estão relacionados com o aumento da ocorrência de doenças crônicas e a redução da qualidade de vida da população. Este estudo buscou estimar a prevalência de baixo nível de atividade física entre estudantes de graduação da Universidade Federal da Paraíba, bem como encontrar fatores associados a esta condição. Trata-se de um estudo seccional estratificado por Centro, com partilha proporcional em função do ano de ingresso, do curso e do turno de estudo. A coleta de dados ocorreu no período no primeiro semestre de 2007, com a participação de 1.503 estudantes. Foram investigadas questões relativas a dados pessoais, caracterização socioeconômica, estilo de vida e saúde, avaliação nutricional e atividade física. Para mensurar nível de atividade física utilizou-se a versão longa IPAQ. A prevalência observada de baixo nível de atividade física foi de 31,2%. Os estudantes com maior tempo de ingresso na universidade, os que estudam no período noturno e aqueles que passam menos tempo na universidade tiveram maior prevalência de baixo nível de atividade física. Também maior renda e classe social mostraram-se associados a maior prevalência de baixa atividade física. Considerando os riscos do baixo nível de atividade física para saúde e a importância da fase universitária como uma transição da etapa adolescente para a vida adulta, faz-se necessário o incentivo à prática de atividades físicas na universidade como medida preventiva para doenças crônicas não transmissíveis e para a melhoria da qualidade de vida na fase adulta e na velhice.
Análise de sobrevida global em pacientes diagnosticados com carcinoma de células escamosas de boca no INCA no ano de 1999
Authors: Honorato Julia , Camisasca Danielle Resende , Silva Licínio Esmeraldo da , Dias Fernando Luiz , Faria Paulo Antônio Silvestre de , Lourenço Simone de Queiroz Chaves
Published: April 2009

O carcinoma de células escamosas de boca compreende cerca de 90 a 95% de todas as neoplasias malignas da boca e é um dos tipos de câncer mais frequentes no Brasil. O índice de sobrevida em 5 anos é baixo e permaneceu estável nas últimas décadas, apesar dos avanços nas terapias. O objetivo deste estudo foi analisar o perfil e a sobrevida global dos pacientes diagnosticados com carcinoma de células escamosas de boca no ano de 1999 no Instituto Nacional de Câncer. Dos 320 pacientes incluídos no estudo, 79,4% eram homens. A idade média foi de 56,7 anos, e 82,2% deles fumavam e/ou bebiam. A língua, seguida do assoalho de boca foram os locais mais acometidos. A maioria (68,9%) dos pacientes foi diagnosticada em estádios tardios e submetida à radioterapia exclusiva (53,6%). A sobrevida média no período do estudo foi de 29,4 meses. Os pacientes dos estádios iniciais apresentaram maior sobrevida, assim como aqueles submetidos apenas à cirurgia como forma de tratamento e os que não apresentaram linfonodos acometidos ao diagnóstico. Tumores localizados em palato duro e mucosa jugal apresentaram pior prognóstico. Foram fatores preditivos independentes de melhor sobrevida os tumores T1 ou T2 (p=0,001), sem acometimento de linfonodos (p=0,012) e não localizados em mucosa jugal (p=0,021). O diagnóstico do câncer oral ainda se faz em estádios tardios, o que influencia negativamente a sobrevida global dos pacientes. Maior ênfase deve ser dada à capacitação dos profissionais para o reconhecimento precoce do câncer e à conscientização da população de risco.