bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Perfil de velocidade para o escoamento de fluido em uma placa plana
Authors: Lacerda Kátia Barros de , Amorim A. E. A.
Published: May 2011

Neste trabalho discutimos a abordagem feita para se estudar o conceito de camada limite usando uma distribuição polinomial para o perfil de velocidade no escoamento de um fluido em uma placa plana e comparamos os resultados obtidos na literatura com um outro método onde a distribuição de velocidade é obtida através da série de Taylor em torno da camada limite.
A influência do fator de vibração térmica na densidade eletrônica de cristais bidimensionais
Authors: Delatorre Plinio , Azevedo Junior Walter Filgueira de
Published: May 2011

Este trabalho mostra o efeito da vibração térmica na densidade eletrônica de cristais bidimensionais, usando o programa Mathematica. É apresentado um modelo de cristal simples para ajudar no ensino de conceitos básicos relacionados à cristalografia.
A (im)pertinência da história ao aprendizado da física (um estudo de caso)
Authors: Dias Penha Maria Cardoso
Published: May 2011

Neste artigo, assumo que a História de uma particular ciência é um legítimo foro de investigação de seus fundamentos. A História revela "o porquê" das categorias conceituais da ciência, clarificando, assim, o significado dos conceitos. Para ilustrar, apresento um estudo de caso: Uma análise conceitual da Teoria do Calor.
Os mitos dos cientistas e suas controvérsias
Authors: Moura Rodrigo , Canalle João Batista Garcia
Published: May 2011

Este artigo discute os mitos que cercam alguns dos maiores cientistas que já existiram e as controvérsias sobre os mesmos. Muitas vezes esses mitos constam em livros didáticos e de divulgação cientíca de forma inquestionável; são relatados da forma mais fantástica possível, com o louvável intuito de provocar interesse pela ciência, mas que terminam por mostrá-la inacessível às pessoas comuns, pois quase sempre as descobertas científicas por eles relatadas derivam de genialidades. Quando o caso não é esse, tais textos provocam uma desvalorização do trabalho científico, pois mostram as grandes descobertas como resultado do acaso. Para ilustrar certas controvérsias sobre determinados mitos foram escolhidos alguns dos mais célebres personagens da Ciência: Arquimedes, Galileu, Newton, Edison e Einstein. O artigo visa mostrar ao leitor que por trás de um mito geralmente há inúmeras controvérsias sobre as quais se debruçam os pesquisadores em história das ciências, o que geralmente não é divulgado.
O sentido físico dos campos B e H
Authors: Ferreira G. F. Leal
Published: May 2011

Mostra-se que, embora seja o campo de indução  o campo fundamental, é o campo  o campo magnetizante no para e no ferromagnetismo, os quais se realizam pela orientação de dipolos magnéticos. Já no diamagnetismo, cujo caso extremo ocorre nos materiais em estado supercondutor, dependente da ação da induçaão eletromagnética, o campo indutor é o de indução, . Discute-se a obtenção das relações  =  + 4pi fundamentais, e  =  + 4pi e as diferenças conceituais entre elas. O efeito desmagnetizante e o statusdascorrentes de Ampère são também abordados.
Leitura etnopsicológica do segredo
Authors: Despret Vinciane
Published: May 2011

O texto apresenta uma discussão crítica acerca das práticas psicológicas, destacando o segredo na psicoterapia. A autora resgata a ideia do segredo como algo que separa, segrega o que é público do que é privado, o que pode e o que não pode ser mostrado, envolvendo não só questões culturais mas, sobretudo, questões políticas. A prática clínica pode ser um dispositivo que "trata o segredo pelo segredo", construindo uma noção de interioridade que fundamenta modelos imperativos de tratamento. Posteriormente, a autora desloca essa discussão para o domínio das pesquisas em ciências humanas revendo a questão da imposição do anonimato que, para ela, provoca o "efeito sem nome" e instaura uma relação de assimetria na pesquisa, provocando uma distribuição equivocada de poder.
As ciências da emoção estão impregnadas de política? Catherine Lutz e a questão do gênero das emoções
Authors: Despret Vinciane
Published: May 2011

O texto apresenta uma reflexão pautada na articulação entre emoção e ciência. Sendo esta possível ao deslocar o entendimento sobre o fenômeno das emoções distante do familiar, onde este é pensado como fenômeno pouco racional. Ao centrar atenção no trabalho da etnopsicóloga Catherine Lutz sobre as emoções dos habitantes da ilha Ifaluk, o texto apresenta outra perspectiva sobre as emoções e sobre o processo de pesquisa: articulando emoção à política, propondo a construção do problema junto com o conhecimento do campo de pesquisa e dando ao pesquisador a possibilidade de transformação no processo da investigação.
Psicologia e liberdade: conhecimento do "eu" e das coisas
Authors: Almada Leonardo
Published: May 2011

Nesse artigo, proponho investigar a significação do problema da liberdade no âmbito de um debate entre a tradição espiritualista e a psicologia experimental. Meu objetivo é o de demonstrar que a conceituação da mente como duração nãoespacializada e como multiplicidade qualitativa é capaz de suprir os empecilhos à liberdade que são instituídos pela psicologia experimental. Para tanto, recorro às obras dos filósofos Henri Bergson e Farias Brito, no tanto quanto souberam expressar e se posicionar em face dos propósitos experimentalistas. A conclusão obtida é a de que a causalidade não é determinação e, por isso, não exclui a liberdade.
Foundations of Nominal Techniques: Logic and Semantics of Variables in Abstract Syntax
Authors: Gabbay Murdoch J.
Published: May 2011

We are used to the idea that computers operate on numbers, yet another kind of data is equally important: the syntax of formal languages, with variables, binding, and alpha-equivalence. The original application of nominal techniques, and the one with greatest prominence in this paper, is to reasoning on formal syntax with variables and binding.

Variables can be modelled in many ways: for instance as numbers (since we usually take countably many of them); as links (since they may ‘point’ to a binding site in the term, where they are bound); or as functions (since they often, though not always, represent ‘an unknown’).

None of these models is perfect. In every case for the models above, problems arise when trying to use them as a basis for a fully formal mechanical treatment of formal language. The problems are practical—but their underlying cause may be mathematical.

The issue is not whether formal syntax exists, since clearly it does, so much as what kind of mathematical structure it is. To illustrate this point by a parody, logical derivations can be modelled using a Gödel encoding (i.e., injected into the natural numbers). It would be false to conclude from this that proof-theory is a branch of number theory and can be understood in terms of, say, Peano's axioms. Similarly, as it turns out, it is false to conclude from the fact that variables can be encoded e.g., as numbers, that the theory of syntax-with-binding can be understood in terms of the theory of syntax-without-binding, plus the theory of numbers (or, taking this to a logical extreme, purely in terms of the theory of numbers). It cannot; something else is going on. What that something else is, has not yet been fully understood.

In nominal techniques, variables are an instance of names, and names are data. We model names using urelemente with properties that, pleasingly enough, turn out to have been investigated by Fraenkel and Mostowski in the first half of the 20th century for a completely different purpose than modelling formal language. What makes this model really interesting is that it gives names distinctive properties which can be related to useful logic and programming principles for formal syntax.

Since the initial publications, advances in the mathematics and presentation have been introduced piecemeal in the literature. This paper provides in a single accessible document an updated development of the foundations of nominal techniques. This gives the reader easy access to updated results and new proofs which they would otherwise have to search across two or more papers to find, and full proofs that in other publications may have been elided. We also include some new material not appearing elsewhere.
Defining Integers
Authors: Shlapentokh Alexandra
Published: May 2011

This paper surveys the recent developments in the area that grew out of attempts to solve an analog of Hilbert's Tenth Problem for the field of rational numbers and the rings of integers of number fields. It is based on a plenary talk the author gave at the annual North American meeting of ASL at the University of Notre Dame in May of 2009.
Robust separations in inductive inference
Authors: Fulk Mark
Published: May 2011

Results in recursion-theoretic inductive inference have been criticized as depending on unrealistic self-referential examples. J. M. Bārzdiņš proposed a way of ruling out such examples, and conjectured that one of the earliest results of inductive inference theory would fall if his method were used. In this paper we refute Bārzdiņš' conjecture.

We propose a new line of research examining robust separations; these are defined using a strengthening of Bārzdiņš' original idea. The preliminary results of the new line of research are presented, and the most important open problem is stated as a conjecture. Finally, we discuss the extension of this work from function learning to formal language learning.
The independence property in generalized dense pairs of structures
Authors: Berenstein Alexander , Dolich Alf , Onshuus Alf
Published: May 2011

We provide a general theorem implying that for a (strongly) dependent theoryTthe theory of sufficiently well-behaved pairs of models ofTis again (strongly) dependent. We apply the theorem to the case of lovely pairs of thorn-rank one theories as well as to a setting of dense pairs of first-order topological theories.
Borel structures and Borel theories
Authors: Hjorth Greg , Nies André
Published: May 2011

We show that there is a complete, consistent Borel theory which has no “Borel model” in the following strong sense: There is no structure satisfying the theory for which the elements of the structure are equivalence classes under some Borel equivalence relation and the interpretations of the relations and function symbols are uniformly Borel.

We also investigate Borel isomorphisms between Borel structures.
Necessary use of induction in a reversal
Authors: Neeman Itay
Published: May 2011

Jullien's indecomposability theorem (INDEC) states that if a scattered countable linear order is indecomposable, then it is either indecomposable to the left, or indecomposable to the right. The theorem was shown by Montalbán to be a theorem of hyperarithmetic analysis, and then, in the base system RCA0 plus induction, it was shown by Neeman to have strength strictly between weak choice and comprehension. We prove in this paper that induction is needed for the reversal of INDEC. that is for the proof that INDEC implies weak choice. This is in contrast with the typical situation in reverse mathematics, where reversals can usually be refined to use only induction.
Expressing cardinality quantifiers in monadic second-order logic over chains
Authors: Bárány Vince , Kaiser Łukasz , Rabinovich Alexander
Published: May 2011

We investigate the extension of monadic second-order logic of order with cardinality quantifiers “there exists uncountably many sets such that…” and “there exists continuum many sets such that … ”. We prove that over the class of countable linear orders the two quantifiers are equivalent and can be effectively and uniformly eliminated. Weaker or partial elimination results are obtained for certain wider classes of chains. In particular, we show that over the class of ordinals the uncountability quantifier can be effectively and uniformly eliminated. Our argument makes use of Shelah's composition method and Ramsey-like theorem for dense linear orders.
Stable embeddedness and NIP
Authors: Pillay Anand
Published: May 2011

We give some sufficient conditions for a predicate P in a complete theory T to be “stably embedded”. Let be P with its “induced ∅-definable structure”. The conditions are that (or rather its theory) is “rosy”. P has NIP in T and that P is stably 1-embedded in T. This generalizes a recent result of Hasson and Onshuus [6] which deals with the case where P is o-minimal in T. Our proofs make use of the theory of strict nonforking and weight in NIP theories ([3], [10]).
A proof-theoretic treatment of λ-reduction with cut-elimination: λ-calculus as a logic programming language
Authors: Gabbay Michael
Published: May 2011

We build on an existing a term-sequent logic for the λ-calculus. We formulate a general sequent system that fully integrates αβη-reductions between untyped λ-terms into first order logic.

We prove a cut-elimination result and then offer an application of cut-elimination by giving a notion of uniform proof for λ-terms. We suggest how this allows us to view the calculus of untyped αβ-reductions as a logic programming language (as well as a functional programming language, as it is traditionally seen).
A random set which only computes strongly jump-traceable c.e. sets
Authors: Greenberg Noam
Published: May 2011

We prove that there is a , 1-random set Y such that every computably enumerable set which is computable from Y is strongly jump-traceable.

We also show that for every order function h there is an ω-c.e. random set Y such that every computably enumerable set which is computable from Y is h-jump-traceable. This establishes a correspondence between rates of jump-traceability and computability from ω-c.e. random sets.
Hechler's Theorem for tall analytic P-ideals
Authors: Farkas Barnabás
Published: May 2011

We prove the following version of Hechler's classical theorem: For each partially ordered set (Q, ≤) with the property that every countable subset of Q has a strict upper bound in Q, there is a ccc forcing notion such that in the generic extension for each tall analytic P-ideal (coded in the ground model) a cofinal subset of is order isomorphic to (Q, ≤).
Quantifying the Relative Contribution of the Heterozygous Class to QTL Detection Power
Authors: McClosky Benjamin , Ma Xiwen , Tanksley Steven D.
Published: May 2011

Basic statistical theory implies that genotypic class cardinalities play a strong role in determining power to detect QTL, but the classes do not contribute equal information to the model. For example, while it is generally accepted that homozygotes contribute more to the detection of additive effects, heterozygotes are necessary to detect dominance effects. The literature on QTL detection often mentions the importance of genotypic class sizes in passing (Belknap (1998); Belknap et al. (1996); Jin et al. (2004); Kliebenstein (2007); Kao (2006); Martinez et al. (2002)), but no rigorous study of their relative values appears to exist. The purpose of this paper is to quantify the relative contribution of the heterozygous class. Researchers can use these results in evaluating the tradeoff between gain in statistical power and the cost of developing populations with specified genotypic class sizes. In addition, we arrive at the surprising conclusion that a misspecified additive model often outperforms a full model that incorporates dominance. This result is significant because standard software packages normally use the full model by default.
Antihyperglycaemic And Renoprotective Effect of Boerhaavia diffusa L. in Experimental Diabetic Rats
Authors: Singh Prem Kumar , Baxi Darshee , Doshi Ankita , A V Ramachandran
Published: May 2011

The present study evaluates the efficacy of ethanolic extract of Boerhaavia diffusa L (BD) administered orally at a dose of 500mg/kg body weight for a period of 30 days to alloxanized diabetic rats and its efficacy compared with the standard hypoglycaemic drug metformin. Diabetic animals showed glycemic dysregulation, altered ionic balance, increased levels of serum markers of kidney function, and reduced Na+-K+ ATPase activity and endogenous antioxidant status. Administration of BD not only maintained the ionic balance and renal Na+-K+ ATPase activity but also significantly minimized diabetic hyperglycaemia. The renal antioxidant status (GPx, Catalase, SOD and GSH) remained in the near normal range and LPO level lower than the non-diabetic level. These effects are comparable to the changes brought about by metformin treatment and even better. Over all, the present study provides evidence for BD to be a potent renoprotective and antihyperglycaemic agent in diabetic animals.
Candidate Choice in Political Advertising: What Determines Who Gets Attention?
Authors: Lefevere Jonas , Dandoy Régis
Published: May 2011

In the run up to the elections, parties have several ways of communicating with voters. In this article, we focus on one piece of the puzzle: advertisements of political parties in the mass media. More specifically, we are interested in the choice of candidates within these advertisements. In countries where parties are the dominant actor, they are faced with a choice: not all candidates can be promoted in the campaign, as this would be too costly and inefficient. Thus, the first question we want to answer is which factors determine candidate choice in political advertisements? Secondly, does candidate choice in political advertisements have an effect on the subsequent coverage in media as well? Agenda setting research has shown that as far as issues are concerned, advertisements do set the media agenda. We use a content analysis of seven magazines and newspapers that was collected in the run up to the 2009 regional elections in Flanders, the largest region of Belgium. The results indicate that both internal party hierarchy, as well as external visibility of candidates determines candidate choice in political advertisements. Furthermore, the agenda setting effect of political advertisements is confirmed as well.
Nitric Oxide: What a Vascular Surgeon Needs to Know
Authors: Popowich Daniel A. , Varu Vinit , Kibbe Melina R.
Published: May 2011

Atherosclerosis in the form of peripheral arterial disease results in significant morbidity and mortality. Surgical treatment options for peripheral arterial disease include angioplasty with and without stenting, endarterectomy, and bypass grafting. Unfortunately, all of these procedures injure the vascular endothelium, which impairs its ability to produce nitric oxide (NO) and ultimately leads to neointimal hyperplasia and restenosis. To improve on current patency rates after vascular procedures, investigators are engaged in research to improve the bioavailability of NO at the site of vascular injury in an attempt to reduce the risk of thrombosis and restenosis after successful revascularization. This article reviews some of the previous research that has aimed to improve NO bioavailability after vascular procedures whether through systemic or local delivery, as well as to describe some of the NO-releasing products that are currently undergoing study for use in clinical practice.
Arterial Thrombosis in Mice with Factor V Leiden Mutation
Authors: Sampram Ellis S. , Saad Yasser , Ouriel Kenneth
Published: May 2011

The factor V Leiden (FVL) mutation has been demonstrated to be associated with the development of venous thrombosis in humans. Whether such a propensity also exists in the arterial circulation remains controversial. In an effort to minimize the variability that clouds the clinical study of arterial thrombosis, we studied FVL-associated arterial thrombosis in an experimental model of homozygous, heterozygous, and wild-type mice. Heterozygous FVL mice were crossbred to C57BL/6J mice over several generations. The genotypes of the resulting three genotype groups (wild type, heterozygous FVL, and homozygous FVL) were blinded to the investigators. Arterial injury was produced with the injection of ferric chloride into an isolated segment of carotid artery. Arterial thrombosis was assessed with an ultrasonic flow probe and the time to occlusion (TTO) was recorded. The carotid artery occluded within 60 minutes of injury in 72 of the animals studied (97.3%). The carotid artery remained patent at 60 minutes in the remaining two animals, both of whom were subsequently found to be genotypically wild type. There was a statistically significant relationship between TTO and genotype ( p = .002). TTO was greatest in the wild-type mice ( p < .001 vs heterozygous, < .001 vs homozygous) and least in the homozygotes ( p < .001 vs heterozygotes). Increased thrombogenicity is present in mice with the FVL mutation and is more prolonged in homozygotes than heterozygotes. These findings provide some corroboration to the clinical studies that suggest an increased risk of arterial events in patients with the FVL mutation.
Ischemic Preconditioning during the Use of the Percusurge Occlusion Balloon for Carotid Angioplasty and Stenting
Authors: Faries Peter L. , DeRubertis Brian , Trocciola Susan , Karwowski John , Kent K. Craig , Chaer Rabih A.
Published: May 2011

Ischemic preconditioning (IP) uses transient ischemia to render tissues tolerant to subsequent, prolonged ischemia. This study sought to evaluate factors that contributed to the development of cerebral ischemia during PercuSurge balloon (Medtronic, Santa Rosa, CA) occlusion in patients undergoing carotid angioplasty and stenting (CAS). The PercuSurge occlusion balloon was used in 43 of 165 patients treated with CAS for high-grade stenosis; 20% were symptomatic. Symptoms of cerebral hypoperfusion during temporary occlusion of the internal carotid artery occurred in 10 of 43 patients and included dysarthria, agitation, decreased level of consciousness, and focal hemispheric deficit. The development of neurologic symptoms after initial PercuSurge balloon inflation and occluded internal carotid artery flow was associated with a decrease in the mean Glasgow Coma Scale (GCS) from 15 to 10 (range 9–14); the GCS returned to normal after occlusion balloon deflation. The mean time to spontaneous recovery of full neurologic function was 8 minutes (range 4–15 minutes). The mean subsequent procedure duration was 11.9 minutes (range 6–21 minutes). No recurrence of neurologic symptoms occurred when the occlusion balloon was reinflated. All 10 patients underwent successful CAS without occlusion, dissection, cerebrovascular accident, or death. Ischemic preconditioning can be used to enable CAS with embolic protection in patients who cannot tolerate initial interruption of antegrade cerebral perfusion by PercuSurge occlusion.
Emergency Endovascular Aneurysm Repair for Ruptured Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm: The Way Forward?
Authors: Lyons Oliver T.A. , Black Stephen , Clough Rachel E. , Bell Rachel E. , Carrell Tom , Waltham Matthew , Sabharwal Tarun , Reidy John , Taylor Peter R.
Published: May 2011

We present the early results of a policy of treating all anatomically suitable ruptured abdominal aortic aneurysms (rAAAs) by emergency endovascular aneurysm repair (eEVAR), regardless of hemodynamic instability. Data were retrospectively collected from prospectively maintained databases identifying patients with rAAA from 2006 to 2007. Forty-seven patients with true rAAA were identified (87% men; median age 76 years [range 63–97 years]), of whom 18 (38%) were treated with eEVAR, 19 (40%) received open aneurysm repair (OAR), and 10 (21%) were managed nonoperatively. Fifteen of 18 (83%) eEVAR patients received an aortouni-iliac device + femorofemoral crossover, 2 patients (11%) had bifurcated devices, and 1 patient (6%) had a new iliac limb. Thirty-day mortality was 11% (2 of 18) for eEVAR and 32% (6 of 19) for OAR ( p = not significant). At the 6-month follow-up, mortality was 22% (4 of 18) for eEVAR and 37% (7 of 19) for OAR ( p = not significant). A clinically significant early survival advantage is suggested for eEVAR in patients presenting with rAAA.
Klotho Depletion Contributes to Increased Inflammation in Kidney of the db/db Mouse Model of Diabetes via RelA (Serine)536 Phosphorylation
Authors: Zhao Yanhua , Banerjee Srijita , Dey Nilay , LeJeune Wanda S. , Sarkar Partha S. , Brobey Reynolds , Rosenblatt Kevin P. , Tilton Ronald G. , Choudhary Sanjeev
Published: May 2011

OBJECTIVE

Klotho is an antiaging hormone present in the kidney that extends the lifespan, regulates kidney function, and modulates cellular responses to oxidative stress. We investigated whether Klotho levels and signaling modulate inflammation in diabetic kidneys.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

Renal Klotho expression was determined by quantitative real-time PCR and immunoblot analysis. Primary mouse tubular epithelial cells were treated with methylglyoxalated albumin, and Klotho expression and inflammatory cytokines were measured. Nuclear factor (NF)-κB activation was assessed by treating human embryonic kidney (HEK) 293 and HK-2 cells with tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α in the presence or absence of Klotho, followed by immunoblot analysis to evaluate inhibitor of κB (IκB)α degradation, IκB kinase (IKK) and p38 activation, RelA nuclear translocation, and phosphorylation. A chromatin immunoprecipitation assay was performed to analyze the effects of Klotho signaling on interleukin-8 and monocyte chemoattractant protein-1 promoter recruitment of RelA and RelA serine (Ser)536.

RESULTS

Renal Klotho mRNA and protein were significantly decreased in db/db mice, and a similar decline was observed in the primary cultures of mouse tubule epithelial cells treated with methylglyoxal-modified albumin. The exogenous addition of soluble Klotho or overexpression of membranous Klotho in tissue culture suppressed NF-κB activation and subsequent production of inflammatory cytokines in response to TNF-α stimulation. Klotho specifically inhibited RelA Ser536 phosphorylation as well as promoter DNA binding of this phosphorylated form of RelA without affecting IKK-mediated IκBα degradation, total RelA nuclear translocation, and total RelA DNA binding.

CONCLUSIONS

These findings suggest that Klotho serves as an anti-inflammatory modulator, negatively regulating the production of NF-κB–linked inflammatory proteins via a mechanism that involves phosphorylation of Ser536 in the transactivation domain of RelA.
Inhibition of Plasminogen Activator Inhibitor-1 Restores Skeletal Muscle Regeneration in Untreated Type 1 Diabetic Mice
Authors: Krause Matthew P. , Moradi Jasmin , Nissar Aliyah A. , Riddell Michael C. , Hawke Thomas J.
Published: May 2011

OBJECTIVE

Type 1 diabetes leads to impairments in growth, function, and regenerative capacity of skeletal muscle; however, the underlying mechanisms have not been clearly defined.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

With the use of Ins2WT/C96Y mice (model of adolescent-onset type 1 diabetes), muscle regeneration was characterized in terms of muscle mass, myofiber size (cross-sectional area), and protein expression. Blood plasma was analyzed for glucose, nonesterified fatty acids, insulin, and plasminogen activator inhibitor-1 (PAI-1). PAI-039, an effective inhibitor of PAI-1, was orally administered to determine if PAI-1 was attenuating muscle regeneration in Ins2WT/C96Y mice.

RESULTS

Ins2 WT/C96Y mice exposed to 1 or 8 weeks of untreated type 1 diabetes before chemically induced muscle injury display significant impairments in their regenerative capacity as demonstrated by decreased muscle mass, myofiber cross-sectional area, myogenin, and Myh3 expression. PAI-1, a physiologic inhibitor of the fibrinolytic system and primary contributor to other diabetes complications, was more than twofold increased within 2 weeks of diabetes onset and remained elevated throughout the experimental period. Consistent with increased circulating PAI-1, regenerating muscles of diabetic mice exhibited excessive collagen levels at 5 and 10 days postinjury with concomitant decreases in active urokinase plasminogen activator and matrix metalloproteinase-9. Pharmacologic inhibition of PAI-1 with orally administered PAI-039 rescued the early regenerative impairments in noninsulin-treated Ins2WT/C96Y mice.

CONCLUSIONS

Taken together, these data illustrate that the pharmacologic inhibition of elevated PAI-1 restores the early impairments in skeletal muscle repair observed in type 1 diabetes and suggests that early interventional studies targeting PAI-1 may be warranted to ensure optimal growth and repair in adolescent diabetic skeletal muscle.
Transition From Intravenous to Subcutaneous Insulin
Authors: Avanzini Fausto , Marelli Giuseppe , Donzelli Walter , Busi Giovanna , Carbone Stefania , Bellato Laura , Colombo Elena Lucia , Foschi Roberto , Riva Emma , Roncaglioni Maria Carla , De Martini Mario ,   on behalf of the Desio Diabetes Diagram Study Group
Published: May 2011

OBJECTIVE

The study objectives were 1) to assess the effectiveness and safety of a standardized protocol for the transition to subcutaneous insulin and oral feeding in diabetic or hyperglycemic patients with acute coronary syndrome (ACS) who were receiving intravenous insulin and glucose at the time of the transfer from the intensive cardiac care unit to a general ward and 2) to identify predictors of transition outcome.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

This was a prospective observational study. The protocol specifies that patients receive a 100% of their daily subcutaneous insulin requirement from the first day of oral feeding, calculated from the intravenous insulin rate during the final 12 h divided into two: 50% basal and 50% prandial.

RESULTS

In 142 patients (93 male, 49 female, age range 47–88 years, 135 with known diabetes) the first day after transition, 44.8% of blood glucose (BG) measurements were within the strict range of 100–140 mg/dL before meals and 100–180 mg/dL after meals, and 70.8% were within the broader ranges of 80–160 mg/dL and 80–200 mg/dL, respectively. Pre- or postprandial hypoglycemia (BG <70 mg/dL) occurred in 11 patients (7.7%) on the first day and in 38 patients (26.8%) on the first 3 days after transition. Old age, high doses of intravenous insulin, and wide BG variations in the 24 h before insulin infusion was stopped were predictive of poor BG control after transition.

CONCLUSIONS

This study shows the effectiveness and safety of a standardized protocol for the transition from intravenous to subcutaneous insulin in patients with ACS when regular oral feeding was resumed.
Hyperglycemia and Death in Cystic Fibrosis–Related Diabetes
Authors: Adler Amanda I. , Shine Brian , Haworth Charles , Leelarathna Lalantha , Bilton Diana
Published: May 2011

OBJECTIVE

Diabetes is common in cystic fibrosis and increases the risk of death, yet the role of hyperglycemia remains unproven. An association between glycemia and mortality would provide compelling evidence to support glucose lowering in cystic fibrosis–related diabetes (CFRD).

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

Using the U.K. Cystic Fibrosis Registry, we analyzed longitudinal data from 2006 to 2009 in 520 individuals with diabetes. We tested the association between HbA1c and mortality.

RESULTS

During a median follow-up of 2 years, 36 patients died. The median value of HbA1c was higher in those who died (7.3%) than in those who did not (6.7%). An HbA1c value of ≥6.5% was associated with a threefold increased risk of death (hazard ratio 3.2 [95% CI 1.4–7.3]; P = 0.005) independent of potential confounders.

CONCLUSIONS

Hyperglycemia trebles the risk of death in patients with CFRD. These findings provide epidemiologic support for continued efforts to improve glycemic control.
Four Weeks of Treatment With Liraglutide Reduces Insulin Dose Without Loss of Glycemic Control in Type 1 Diabetic Patients With and Without Residual β-Cell Function
Authors: Kielgast Urd , Krarup Thure , Holst Jens Juul , Madsbad Sten
Published: May 2011

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the effect of 4 weeks of treatment with liraglutide on insulin dose and glycemic control in type 1 diabetic patients with and without residual β-cell function.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

Ten type 1 diabetic patients with residual β-cell function (C-peptide positive) and 19 without (C-peptide negative) were studied. All C-peptide–positive patients were treated with liraglutide plus insulin, whereas C-peptide–negative patients were randomly assigned to liraglutide plus insulin or insulin monotherapy. Continuous glucose monitoring with identical food intake and physical activity was performed before (week 0) and during (week 4) treatment. Differences in insulin dose; HbA1c; time spent with blood glucose <3.9, >10, and 3.9–9.9 mmol/L; and body weight were evaluated.

RESULTS

Insulin dose decreased from 0.50 ± 0.06 to 0.31 ± 0.08 units/kg per day (P < 0.001) in C-peptide–positive patients and from 0.72 ± 0.08 to 0.59 ± 0.06 units/kg per day (P < 0.01) in C-peptide–negative patients treated with liraglutide but did not change with insulin monotherapy. HbA1c decreased in both liraglutide-treated groups. The percent reduction in daily insulin dose was positively correlated with β-cell function at baseline, and two patients discontinued insulin treatment. In C-peptide–positive patients, time spent with blood glucose <3.9 mmol/L decreased from 3.0 to 1.0 h (P = 0.03). A total of 18 of 19 patients treated with liraglutide lost weight during treatment (mean [range] −2.3 ± 0.3 kg [−0.5 to −5.1]; P < 0.001). Transient gastrointestinal adverse effects occurred in almost all patients treated with liraglutide.

CONCLUSIONS

Treatment with liraglutide in type 1 diabetic patients reduces insulin dose with improved or unaltered glycemic control.
Increased Risk of Hypertension After Gestational Diabetes Mellitus
Authors: Tobias Deirdre K. , Hu Frank B. , Forman John P. , Chavarro Jorge , Zhang Cuilin
Published: May 2011

OBJECTIVE

Whether a history of gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) is associated with an increased risk of hypertension after the index pregnancy is not well established.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

We investigated the association between GDM and subsequent risk of hypertension after the index pregnancy among 25,305 women who reported at least one singleton pregnancy between 1991 and 2007 in the Nurses’ Health Study II.

RESULTS

During 16 years of follow-up, GDM developed in 1,414 women (5.6%) and hypertension developed in 3,138. A multivariable Cox proportional hazards model showed women with a history of GDM had a 26% increased risk of developing hypertension compared with those without a history of GDM (hazard ratio 1.26 [95% CI 1.11–1.43]; P = 0.0004). These results were independent of pregnancy hypertension or subsequent type 2 diabetes.

CONCLUSIONS

These results indicate that women with GDM are at a significant increased risk of developing hypertension after the index pregnancy.
Growing stock assessment trough stratified sampling - accuracy of the method at strata and forest division level
Authors: Jabłoński Marek
Published: May 2011

Teoretyczna dokładność statystycznej metody reprezentacyjnej pomiaru miąższości obrębu leśnego
Protein-Energy Wasting and Mortality in Chronic Kidney Disease
Authors: Bonanni Alice , Mannucci Irene , Verzola Daniela , Sofia Antonella , Saffioti Stefano , Gianetta Ezio , Garibotto Giacomo
Published: May 2011

Protein-energy wasting (PEW) is common in patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD) and is associated with an increased death risk from cardiovascular diseases. However, while even minor renal dysfunction is an independent predictor of adverse cardiovascular prognosis, PEW becomes clinically manifest at an advanced stage, early before or during the dialytic stage. Mechanisms causing loss of muscle protein and fat are complex and not always associated with anorexia, but are linked to several abnormalities that stimulate protein degradation and/or decrease protein synthesis. In addition, data from experimental CKD indicate that uremia specifically blunts the regenerative potential in skeletal muscle, by acting on muscle stem cells. In this discussion recent findings regarding the mechanisms responsible for malnutrition and the increase in cardiovascular risk in CKD patients are discussed. During the course of CKD, the loss of kidney excretory and metabolic functions proceed together with the activation of pathways of endothelial damage, inflammation, acidosis, alterations in insulin signaling and anorexia which are likely to orchestrate net protein catabolism and the PEW syndrome.
The Evaluation for Alterations of DOM Components from Upstream to Downstream Flow of Rivers in Toyama (Japan) Using Three-Dimensional Excitation-Emission Matrix Fluorescence Spectroscopy
Authors: Sazawa Kazuto , Tachi Masaki , Wakimoto Takatoshi , Kawakami Takanori , Hata Noriko , Taguchi Shigeru , Kuramitz Hideki
Published: May 2011

The dissolved organic matter (DOM) is one of the important factors for controlling water quality. The behavior and constitutions of DOM is related to the risk of human health because it is able to directly or indirectly affect the behavior, speciation and toxicity of various environmental pollutants. However, it is not easy to know the contents of DOM components without using various complicated and time consuming analytical methods because DOM is a complex mixture and usually exists at low concentration. Here, we describe the fluorescence properties of DOM components in water samples collected from four rivers in Toyama, Japan by means of the three-dimensional excitation-emission matrix (3DEEM) fluorescence spectroscopy. In order to evaluate the alterations of DOM components in each of the river during the flow from upstream to downstream, the patterns of relative fluorescence intensity (RFI) at six peaks which are originated from fluorophores including humic-like and protein-like components were investigated. The changes in the patterns of RFI values at each of the peak and the concentration of dissolved organic carbon (DOC) for each river water sample were discussed in connection with the differences of land use managements and basic water quality parameters, such as pH, EC, turbidity, Fe3+, T-N, NO3-N, T-P, PO4-P, chlorophyll a, DOC and N/P ratio. The DOC concentrations in the water samples collected from these rivers were relatively low (0.63–1.16 mg/L). Two main peaks which have a strong RFI value expressed a positive correlation with the DOC concentration (r = 0.557, 0.535). However, the correlations between the RFI values for other four peaks and the DOC concentration were below 0.287. The alterations of DOM components during the flow of a river from upstream to downstream were investigated from the changes in the patterns of RFI values for six fluorescent peaks. It was clarified that the great increase of RFI values in peak A and peak T from river water located in urban area showed high concentration of PO4-P and Fe3+, and low N/P ratio due to the high biological activities. The values of fluorescence index (FIX) and biological index (BIX) were as high as 1.60 and 0.72, respectively.
A Large Area Tactile Sensor Patch Based on Commercial Force Sensors
Authors: Vidal-Verdú Fernando , Barquero Maria Jose , Castellanos-Ramos Julián , Navas-González Rafael , Sánchez Jose Antonio , Serón Javier , García-Cerezo Alfonso
Published: May 2011

This paper reports the design of a tactile sensor patch to cover large areas of robots and machines that interact with human beings. Many devices have been proposed to meet such a demand. These realizations are mostly custom-built or developed in the lab. The sensor of this paper is implemented with commercial force sensors. This has the benefit of a more foreseeable response of the sensor if its behavior is understood as the aggregation of readings from all the individual force sensors in the array. A few reported large area tactile sensors are also based on commercial sensors. However, the one in this paper is the first of this kind based on the use of polymeric commercial force sensing resistors (FSR) as unit elements of the array or tactels, which results in a robust sensor. The paper discusses design issues related to some necessary modifications of the force sensor, its assembly in an array, and the signal conditioning. The patch has 16 × 9 force sensors mounted on a flexible printed circuit board with a spatial resolution of 18.5 mm. The force range of a tactel is 6 N and its sensitivity is 0.6 V/N. The array is read at a rate of 78 frames per second. Finally, two simple application examples are also carried out with the sensor mounted on the forearm of a rescue robot that communicates with the sensor through a CAN bus.
Le périurbain grec : entre banal et spécifique
Authors: Burgel Guy
Published: May 2011

Malgré un éclatement tardif, l'expansion du périurbain grec paraît prendre des formes spatiales banales : débordements des grandes agglomérations, diffluences des petites villes, alignements touristiques littoraux. L'originalité est beaucoup plus dans les mécanismes de formation : ancienneté des pratiques urbaines de l'espace rural, goût généralisé pour l'investissement immobilier, représentation symbolique de la campagne et de la cité.
La lutte contre les eaux dans les pays du bas Rhône XIIe-XVe siècles. L'exemple du pays d'Arles
Authors: Stouff Louis
Published: May 2011

In the last centuries of the Middle-Ages, stagnant waters -ponds and marshes- as well as running waters -the Rhone with its branches more numerous than do-day- occupy a considerable place in the whole territory of Aries. They give this region all its singularity : characteristic vegetation, insalubrity but at the same time fertility owing to the river silts, numerous and varied resources : original hunting and fishing, saltworks development. They are also a cause of permanent insecurity : appaling floods of the Rhone which ruin the crops, sweep the cattle along and eat away the riverside areas of the Rhone. The «Arlesien» people have had to fight against these waters and protecting themselves from the floods. What is commonly considered as great 'clearings' has here taken the shape of areas gained on the marshes owing to the building of drainage canals -roubines- as early as the nineteenth century. By the end of the twelfth and thirteenth century, the drying out of marshes becoming more and more important, urban authorities and «comtes» have to deal with these problems. As for the building of «levées» -dykes- to fight against the river overflowing, it has started in the twelfth century. These «levées» are made of earth and wood and tamarisk branches, with practically no paving. They are taken care of by associations of landowners who regularly meet to collect the «tailles» -toilages- financing the works and in order to appoint the «levadiers», «terrillons» or «fangueiayres». All things considered, fighting against waters leads to the creation of quite original associations in which any Artesian -even the humblest ones- can take part. So, one may say, running the risk of being anachronistic, that these associations had, in a way, «democratic» features.
Novel carbazole–pyridine copolymers by an economical method: synthesis, spectroscopic and thermochemical studies
Authors: Saeed Aamer , Irfan Madiha , Samra Shahid Ameen
Published: May 2011

The synthesis, as well as spectroscopic and thermochemical studies of a novel class of carbazole-4-phenylpyridine co-polymers are described. The synthesis was carried out by a simple and cheaper method compared to the lengthy methods usually adopted for the preparation of carbazole–pyridine copolymers which involve costly catalysts. Thus, two series of polymers were synthesized by a modified Chichibabin reaction, i.e., by the condensation of diacetylated N-alkylcarbazoles with 3-substituted benzaldehydes in the presence of ammonium acetate in refluxing acetic acid. All the polymers were characterized by FTIR, 1H NMR, 13C NMR, UV–vis spectroscopy, fluorimetry, TGA and DSC. The weight average molecular masses (Mw) of the polymers were estimated by the laser light scattering (LLS) technique.
Pharmacokinetics of Switching Unboosted Atazanavir Coadministered with Tenofovir Disoproxil Fumarate from 400 Mg Once Daily to 200 Mg Twice Daily in HIV-Positive Patients
Authors: Bonora Stefano , de Requena Daniel Gonzalez , D'Avolio Antonio , Calcagno Andrea , Tettoni Mariacristina , Siccardi Marco , Baietto Lorena , Simiele Marco , Trentini Laura , Perri Giovanni Di
Published: May 2011

Background

Use of unboosted atazanavir (ATV) with tenofovir disoproxil fumarate (TDF), although attractive from a clinical view point, has not been tested in trials and is not currently recommended because of the risk of suboptimal ATV pharmacokinetics (PK). In order to improve ATV exposure, plasma and intracellular (IC) PK of ATV in patients administered with ATV 400 mg once daily and TDF/emtricitabine (FTC) and switched to ATV 200 mg twice daily were studied.

Methods

On day 0, 10 subjects on ATV 400 mg plus TDF/FTC once daily underwent intensive plasma and IC PK evaluation and bilirubin measurement. Patients were subsequently switched to ATV 200 mg twice daily for 10 days. On day 11, they once again underwent intensive PK and bilirubin evaluation.

Results

Switch to 200 mg twice daily led (in plasma) to a significant increase of the observed concentration at the end of dosing interval (Ctrough; ratio twice daily/ once daily 2.20; P=0.005), with a decrease from 60% to 20% of suboptimal values, a significant decrease of the maximum concentration (Cmax; ratio twice daily/once daily 0.47; P=0.022), whereas no differences of other PK parameters or bilirubin were observed. IC ATV concentrations at 400 once daily showed higher Ctrough (ratio peripheral blood mononuclear cells [PBMCs]/plasma 2.86; P=0.005) and longer half-life (ratio PBMCs/ plasma 1.44; P=0.007) as compared with plasma. After the switch, IC ATV accumulation showed changes similar to plasma.

Conclusions

Switch to 200 mg twice daily appeared to optimize plasma and IC ATV PK, by increasing the determinant of efficacy (Ctrough) and decreasing Cmax, without significant effect on total ATV plasma exposure and bilirubin. Dosage of 200 mg might provide an option to patients showing suboptimal ATV exposure with standard unboosted dosing.
Le rôle de l'archéologue dans la société contemporaine
Authors: Djindjian François
Published: May 2011

Résumé Le présent essai a pour but d’essayer de montrer que l’archéologue, sortant de la tour d’ivoire de son érudition des sociétés du passé, peut également jouer un rôle utile dans les changements des sociétés futures. A partir de deux exemples choisis au XIX? siècle, nous mettons en évidence l’impact très important que peut avoir l’archéologie dans la société à un niveau régional (le musée de Lubny en Ukraine) comme à un niveau mondial (les Expositions Universelles à Paris) dans l’évolution des sociétés. Sous l’effet de crises résultant de mécanismes internes propres à nos fonctionnements, les sociétés modernes peuvent disparaître comme les sociétés du passé. Ces mécanismes sont de nature systémique autant que de nature historique, ce qui doit nous amener à découvrir les principaux processus responsables de ces crises L’archéologue peut alors, comme le climatologue, exploiter les connaissances du passé pour prévoir les changements heureux ou funestes du futur. L’archéologue, au service de la société contemporaine peut alors être utile, non seulement dans la découverte des vestiges et la reconstitution des sociétés du passé, mais également dans l’inventaire des cultures du présent comme dans la prévision des évolutions sociétales.
La disgrâce du chef. Mobilisations populaires arabes et crise du leadership
Authors: Camau Michel
Published: May 2011

Résumé Côté jardin, un pouvoir personnel fort, généralement centré sur le clan voire sur la famille ; côté cours, une figure charismatique, ou qui se veut telle, en parfaite symbiose avec un peuple soumis au verbe du chef : tel est le mythe qui a volé en éclat dans tout le monde arabe à la suite du « printemps des peuples » de cet hiver 2011. On ne peut en effet comprendre ce qui s’est joué et continu de l’être dans le rapport que les peuples construisent aujourd’hui avec le pouvoir, sans revenir sur ce qu’a pu représenter la figure du chef dans les imaginaires, depuis le type idéal nassérien jusqu’à ces dictateurs vieillissants dépourvus d’aura comme de légitimité dont les masques grotesques viennent de leur être arrachés...