bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Efficient synthesis of thieno[2,3-d]pyrimidin-4(3H)-ones by a sequential aza-Wittig reaction/base catalyzed cyclization
Authors: Dai Zhong-Xu , Chen Hong , Liu Ming-Guo , Ding Ming-Wu
Published: December 2011

7-Benzyl-5,6,7,8-tetrahydropyrido[4′,3′:4,5]thieno[2,3-d]pyrimidin-4(3H)-ones were synthesized by base catalyzed reactions of nucleophilic reagents (aliphatic amines, alcohols or phenols) with carbodiimides4, which in turn were obtained by the aza-Wittig reaction of iminophosphoranes3with aromatic isocyanates.
Effect of lignin and hemicelluloses on the tensile strength of micro-veneers determined at finite span and zero span
Authors: Klüppel André , Mai Carsten
Published: December 2011

Scots pine micro-veneers were subjected to hydrolysis with sulphuric acid or delignification with acidic sodium chlorite and a combination of both treatments. The tensile strength of untreated and treated veneers was determined at finite span (f-strength) and zero span (z-strength) under both dry (20°C, 65% relative humidity) and water-saturated conditions. Acidic hydrolysis resulted in significant strength losses in both testing modes and both moisture conditions, with the greatest strength reduction found for f-strength tested dry. After delignification, only f-strength under wet conditions was substantially reduced; dry f-strength and both dry and wet z-strength hardly changed. A combined treatment of prehydrolysis and delignification resulted in disintegration of the veneers, which made strength determination impossible. It was concluded that, in addition to cellulose, the hemicelluloses determine the f-strength under dry conditions, while lignin confers wet strength but appears not to contribute to interfibre adhesion and f-strength under dry conditions.
Surface and internal micro/ultrastructure of TMP fibres produced during high-intensity refining elucidate the development of pulp and paper properties
Authors: Fernando Dinesh , Muhić Dino , Engstrand Per , Daniel Geoffrey
Published: December 2011

Refining during mechanical pulping causes delamination and internal fibrillation (D/IF) of the fibre wall and changes the surface ultrastructure. Fundamental knowledge about these phenomena at the fibre cell wall level helps our understanding of the development of pulp and paper properties, which in turn facilitates the optimization of processes, helping to save energy and improve the characteristics of final products. In the present study, pulps were produced by double-disc (DD) refined thermomechanical processes (DD-TMP) and have been characterized at the fibre cell wall micro/ultrastructural level based on Fernando and Daniel’s method (2010) of Simons’ staining and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The pulps studied were never-dried Norway spruce DD-TMP from a full-scale mill trial running under different process conditions; a) varying refining intensity, achieved by using a high-intensity turbine segment (HTS) and a standard (Ref) segment from Metso, and b) varying specific energy consumption (SEC). Improved energy efficiency was obtained with HTS segments, giving adequate or better pulp properties with respect to elongation, light scattering, Canadian Standard Freeness (CSF) at a similar tensile index level and lower energy consumption. Energy efficiency was gained through an elevated degree of D/IF and S2 fibrillation with low energy input. Both the SEC and segment designs had a significant impact on elevating the degree of D/IF. Statistical evaluation of fibre development with respect to D/IF gave evidence for improved energy efficiency in HTS refining. Ultrastructural studies on fibre surfaces showed that HTS refining produced better external fibrillation and leads to exposing the secondary S2 wall as fibre outer layer with different ribbon-type S2 fibrillation. Information obtained at the fibre wall level concerning D/IF and surface ultrastructure contribute to the fundamental knowledge about the pulp and handsheet properties and the energy efficiency of TMP processing.
Liver X receptor agonist downregulates growth hormone signaling in the liver
Authors: Zadjali Fahad , Santana-Farre Ruyman , Mirecki-Garrido Mercedes , Ellis Ewa , Norstedt Gunnar , Fernandez-Perez Leandro , Flores-Morales Amilcar
Published: December 2011

Liver X receptor (LXR) agonists have been shown to influence the development of hyperlipidemia and atherosclerosis in mouse models. It has also been demonstrated that some LXR agonists can cause hepatic steatosis in experimental animals. Growth hormone (GH) is known to regulate hepatic metabolism and the absence of hepatic GH receptors (GHR) leads to hepatic steatosis. In this study, we analyzed whether the actions of LXR agonists could involve interference with GH signaling. We showed that LXR agonists impair GH signaling in hepatocytes. LXR agonist treatment attenuated GH induction of suppressor of cytokine signaling 2 (SOCS2), SOCS3, and CIS mRNA levels in BRL-4 cells. Likewise, the activity of a luciferase reporter vector driven by the GH response element (GHRE) of the SOCS2 gene was inhibited by simultaneous treatment with an LXR agonist. The inhibitory effect of LXR agonists on GH signals can be mimicked by overexpression of the LXR regulated factors, sterol regulatory element binding protein 1 (SREBP1) and SREBP2, in hepatic cells. In both cases total and phosphorylated signal transducers and activators of transcription 5b (STAT5b) protein levels were significantly reduced. DNA binding assays demonstrated that SREBP1 binds to an E-box within a previously defined GHRE in the SOCS2 gene promoter, but does not compete with STAT5b binding to a nearby site in the same promoter construct. Taken together, our findings indicate that the inhibitory effects of LXR agonists on GH signaling are mediated by SREBP1, through the downregulation of STAT5b gene transcription and stimulation of STAT5b protein degradation. The findings provide a new insight into the understanding of the molecular actions of LXR agonists, which may be of relevance to their pharmacological actions.
Induced testosterone deficiency: from clinical presentation of fatigue, erectile dysfunction and muscle atrophy to insulin resistance and diabetes
Authors: Yu George , Traish Abdulmaged M.
Published: December 2011

Over the past 60 years, androgen deprivation therapy has been the mainstay of treatment of metastatic prostate cancer. However, research findings suggest that androgen deprivation therapy inflicts serious adverse effects on overall health and reduces the quality of life. Among the adverse effects known to date are insulin resistance, diabetes, metabolic syndrome fatigue, erectile dysfunction, and cardiovascular disease. In this clinical perspective, we discuss the relationship between induced androgen deficiency and a host of pathologies in the course of treatment with androgen deprivation therapy for prostate cancer patients.
Ijime in Japan
Authors: Ogura Masayoshi , Okada Kaori , Hamada Shoko , Asaga Reiko , Honjo Shuji
Published: December 2011

This paper reviews the problem of ijime in Japan from a variety of perspectives, primarily through studies conducted in this country. The term ijime is not uniform in concept, open to different interpretations given the disparity in definitions among different circles, making precise assessment of the actual conditions difficult. Such being the case, what is needed is further study on the mechanisms and actual state of ijime accounting for the flow of the times, and compilation of research to enable the creation of ever more effective modes of prevention and intervention.
2-Blocks with minimal nonabelian defect groups II
Authors: Eaton Charles W. , Külshammer Burkhard , Sambale Benjamin
Published: December 2011

We determine the structure of 2-blocks with minimal nonabelian defect groups, by making use of the classification of finite simple groups.
Mechano-chemical dynamics of active gels: interplay between spatial bistability and volume variations
Authors: Villain Sébastien , Borckmans Pierre , Métens Stéphane
Published: December 2011

The mechano-chemical dynamics of a spherical bead of gel immersed in an autocatalytic bistable chemical reaction are examined. The spheres exhibit autonomous volume self-oscillation dynamics. We present a multi-diffusional approach to a hydrodynamic theory of gels, and also evolution equations incorporating chemical processes.
Treating internal surfaces and interfaces in discrete dislocation dynamics
Authors: Mastorakos Ioannis N. , Akasheh Firas E. , Zbib Hussein M.
Published: December 2011

The treatment of coherent interfaces and cracks is discussed in the framework of dislocation dynamics (DD). In the case of interfaces, we use DD to study dislocation interactions in nanoscale bimetallic laminates, and to predict their structure after relaxation and during loading. In agreement with experimental observations, our discrete dynamics simulations show that dislocation structure develops only at the interface between coherent layers leaving layers’ interior dislocation-free. The main dislocation mechanism at this length scale is Oworan bowing of threading dislocations confined to their respective layers by the sign-alternating coherency stress field in the layers. Slip transmission across the interfaces marks the end of the confined slip regime, hence, the breakdown of the interfaces and macroscopic yielding of these structures. In the case of crack, its long-range and singular stress field is determined by modeling the crack as continuous distribution of dislocation loops. The traction boundary condition to be satisfied at the crack surface, results into a singular integral equation of the first kind that is solved numerically. The model is integrated with the DD technique to investigate the behavior of a specimen containing cracks of different shapes under fatigue. The results are compared with the behavior of an uncracked specimen and conclusions are extracted. Extension of this crack treatment methodology to account for their presence at interfaces, all within the frame dislocations dynamics, opens the door for a more realistic approach to a wide range of interfaces-related problems.
A gradient elasticity approach to the indentation size effect at very small depths
Authors: Mokios George P. , Aifantis Elias C.
Published: December 2011

Over the past two decades, the indentation size effect (ISE) has been studied extensively by several authors. A common point among all these studies has been the premise that during the indentation process sufficient plastic deformation is developed so that a gradient plasticity framework can be employed in order to capture this effect. However, recent studies have shown that a more detailed analysis of the deformation mechanism during nanoindentation reveals often situations that vary significantly from commonly held beliefs, i.e., configurations where plastic deformation is almost absent, yet an ISE is still observed. This paper deals with such situations and proposes an alternative approach based on a gradient elasticity framework that is capable of capturing the ISE in nanoindentations of small depth, where traditional macroscopic plasticity approaches may not be adopted.
The problem of mechanical compatibility of natural building stones in the restoration of monuments. Part II: Specimens with modified boundaries
Authors: Ninis Nikolaos L. , Kourkoulis Stavros K.
Published: December 2011

It was pointed out in Part I of this short two-paper series, that the mechanical incompatibility between the authentic building stone of ancient monuments and the stones used as substitute ones during restoration projects, may be the reason of violation of basic restoration principles concerning the protection of the ancient material. In this context certain geometrical configurations of the boundaries of the specimens are examined in this Part II as a possible means of modifying the mechanical behaviour of the substitute stones, in order to make them as compatible as possible with the authentic material. Modifications of both the contact surfaces (in order to change the friction conditions) of the specimens as well as of the free ones (in order to quantify the influence of transforming the smooth cylindrical surface to a fluted one) are examined experimentally. This approach is based on existing observations and numerical studies indicating that the behaviour of a stone specimen in the post-peak region is affected by the geometrical configuration of its boundaries. Taking advantage of the experimental results an alternative compatibility criterion is introduced for situations where the “required” quality of the building stone is its ability to withstand deformation without failing structurally, a characteristic pertinent to statically indeterminate structures, whose design is based on deformation control. This criterion combines both peak stress and maximum failure strain providing a better insight into the problem of mechanical incompatibility of natural building stones.
Zu den didaktischen Konsequenzen der prozessorientier ten Übersetzungsforschung
Authors: El-Askary Maha
Published: December 2011

The aim of the present article is to show how gaining insights into the mental processes activated during translating through process-oriented research of translation and the use of think-aloud-protocols could provide a contribution to the didactic of translation and allow a development of teaching methods of translation. The article starts with a background about the process-oriented Research of translation and then presents the steps and results of an empirical study. The subjects of the analysis in the study were 8 egyptian advanced learners of German. Finally some consequences for the pedagogy of translation are briefly sketched.
Adhesive bonding between multi-material assembly injection molding parts with an adhesive interlayer
Authors: Vetter Martina , Heinle Christoph , Drummer Dietmar , Amesöder Simon
Published: December 2011

As it offers a wide range of benefits, assembly injection molding of plastics represents an innovative technology. In a material, cost efficient and integrative process, the most diverse products for mechatronics applications can be manufactured. The technique can generate multi-material systems combining different parts with special functionality, e.g., plastics casings and circuit boards, in a fully automated process. This automated integration of part structure and functionality makes these products superior to others. However, it implies a great challenge in terms of technology for part development and production. Of vital importance for a media tight and durable connection between individual materials/parts of the assembly, are factors such as the components’ compatibility and chemical-physical adhesion. Thermal stress in hybrid assemblies due to different thermal expansion coefficients is often the reason for part failure. An approach to meeting these challenges is the investigation of the process-integrated application of functional interlayers, in order to improve the formation of adhesion along with the optimization of the stress distribution. The following article will present findings obtained on the bond strength generated by different types of interlayers (hot-melt and pressure-sensitive adhesives) between circuit cards and different types of casing plastics. A fundamental understanding of underlying effects and the tools for predicting process dependent effects is required for the optimization of the systems’ functionality. For this purpose, the interactions between material, system design and process conditions are considered in relation to bond strength.
ASTM F2624—Evaluating Alternate Fixtures for Flexion/Extention, Lateral Bending, and Axial Rotation Testing of Extra Discal Motion Preserving Implants
Authors: Anderson M. C. , Lissy D. A.
Published: December 2011

ASTM F2624-07 prescribes applying flexion/extension (FE), lateral bending (LB), and axial rotation (AR) moments to test and evaluate extra discal motion preserving implants (EDMPI), but parameters such as fixture design and load parameters are left to the user to define. A set of fixtures to conduct FE, LB, and AR testing rotation of EDMPI devices about a fixed center of rotation were developed by Aesculap Implant Systems. Their design was shared, and a set of these fixtures were manufactured and evaluated independently at Empirical Testing Corp. Testing was conducted to quantify the loads applied to an EDMPI in the FE and LB fixtures, determine whether results are frequency dependent, and evaluate whether EDMPI of different stiffnesses can be differentiated when using the fixtures. Miniature load cells were mounted to FE and LB fixtures to quantify load applied to an EDMPI during testing at several different applied loads and at two testing frequencies (2 Hz and 5 Hz). The load cells were replaced with cylindrical test specimens made of stainless steel, titanium, polyether ether ketone (PEEK), or a polyethylene cable slipped inside a polyurethane tube and the testing repeated. Results indicated that loads measured during FE testing were similar in magnitude to those recorded during LB testing but 90 degrees out of phase. No frequency effects were observed. Differences in displacement amplitude when testing the stainless steel, titanium, and PEEK specimens in FE and LB testing at both 2 Hz and 5 Hz were not discernable. The displacement amplitude of the polyethylene (PE) cord specimen was different than the other specimens, but no frequency effect was noted. The fixtures developed by Aesculap are a reasonable attempt to conduct EDMPI testing in FE, LB, and AR motions. Potential users of these fixtures should conduct further studies to determine whether their use is appropriate to test their specific EDMPI device.
Microstructural Characterization of Layers Produced by Plasma Nitriding on Austenitic and Superaustenitic Stainless Steel Grades
Authors: Totten George E. , Casteletti Luiz C. , Fernandes Frederico A. P. , Gallego Juno
Published: December 2011

High chromium content is responsible for the formation of a protective passive surface layer on austenitic stainless steels (ASS). Due to their larger amounts of chromium, superaustenitic stainless steels (SASS) can be chosen for applications with higher corrosion resistance requirements. However, both of them present low hardness and wear resistance that has limited their use for mechanical parts fabrication. Plasma nitriding is a very effective surface treatment for producing harder and wear resistant surface layers on these steel grades, without harming their corrosion resistance if low processing temperatures are employed. In this work UNS S31600 and UNS S31254 SASS samples were plasma nitrided in temperatures from 400 °C to 500 °C for 5 h with 80 % H2–20 % N2 atmosphere at 600 Pa. Nitrided layers were analyzed by optical (OM) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM), x-ray diffraction (XRD), and Vickers microhardness testing. Observations made by optical microscopy showed that N-rich layers were uniform but their thicknesses increased with higher nitriding temperatures. XRD analyses showed that lower temperature layers are mainly composed by expanded austenite, a metastable nitrogen supersaturated phase with excellent corrosion and tribological properties. Samples nitrided at 400 °C produced a 5 μm thick expanded austenite layer. The nitrided layer reached 25 μm in specimens treated at 500 °C. There are indications that other phases are formed during higher temperature nitriding but XRD analysis was not able to determine that phases are iron and/or chromium nitrides, which are responsible for increasing hardness from 850 up to 1100 HV. In fact, observations made by TEM have indicated that formation of fine nitrides, virtually not identified by XRD technique, can begin at lower temperatures and their growth is affected by both thermodynamical and kinetics reasons.
Molecular mechanisms of somatostatin receptor trafficking
Authors: Csaba Zsolt , Peineau Stéphane , Dournaud Pascal
Published: December 2011

The neuropeptide somatostatin (SRIF) is an important modulator of neurotransmission in the central nervous system and acts as a potent inhibitor of hormone and exocrine secretion. In addition, SRIF regulates cell proliferation in normal and tumorous tissues. The six somatostatin receptor subtypes (sst1, sst2A, sst2B, sst3, sst4, and sst5), which belong to the G protein-coupled receptor (GPCR) family, share a common molecular topology: a hydrophobic core of seven transmembrane-spanning α-helices, three intracellular loops, three extracellular loops, an amino-terminus outside the cell, and a carboxyl-terminus inside the cell. For most of the GPCRs, intracytosolic sequences, and more particularly the C-terminus, are believed to interact with proteins that are mandatory for either exporting neosynthesized receptor, anchoring receptor at the plasma membrane, internalization, recycling, or degradation after ligand binding. Accordingly, most of the SRIF receptors can traffic not onlyin vitrowithin different cell types but alsoin vivo. A picture of the pathways and proteins involved in these processes is beginning to emerge.
Sirtuin 1 (SIRT1) and steroid hormone receptor activity in cancer
Authors: Moore R L , Dai Y , Faller D V
Published: December 2011

Sirtuins, which are class III NAD-dependent histone deacetylases that regulate a number of physiological processes, play important roles in the regulation of metabolism, aging, oncogenesis, and cancer progression. Recently, a role for the sirtuins in the regulation of steroid hormone receptor signaling is emerging. In this mini-review, we will summarize current research into the regulation of estrogen, androgen, progesterone, mineralocorticoid, and glucocorticoid signaling by sirtuins in cancer. Sirtuins can regulate steroid hormone signaling through a variety of molecular mechanisms, including acting as co-regulatory transcription factors, deacetylating histones in the promoters of genes with nuclear receptor-binding sites, directly deacetylating steroid hormone nuclear receptors, and regulating pathways that modify steroid hormone receptors through phosphorylation. Furthermore, disruption of sirtuin activity may be an important step in the development of steroid hormone-refractory cancers.
Effects of cycle stage on regionalised galanin, galanin receptors 1–3, GNRH and GNRH receptor mRNA expression in the ovine hypothalamus
Authors: Whitelaw Christine Margaret , Robinson Jane Elizabeth , Hastie Peter Mark , Padmanabhan Vasantha , Evans Neil Price
Published: December 2011

The neurotransmitter galanin has been implicated in the steroidogenic regulation of reproduction based on work mainly conducted in rodents. This study investigated the temporal changes in the expression of galanin and its three receptor isoforms andGNRHandGNRHRmRNA in specific hypothalamic nuclei known to be involved in the regulation of reproductive cyclicity, namely the medial pre-optic area (mPOA), the rostral mPOA/organum vasculosum of the lamina terminalis, the paraventricular nucleus and the arcuate nucleus using an ovine model. Following synchronisation of their oestrous cycles, tissues were collected from ewes at five time points: the early follicular, mid follicular (MF) and late follicular phases and the early luteal and mid luteal phases. The results indicated significant differences in regional expression of most of the genes studied, with galanin mRNA expression being highest during the MF phase at the start of the GNRH/LH surge and the expression of the three galanin receptor (GalR) isoforms and GNRH and its receptor highest during the luteal phase. These findings are consistent with a role for galanin in the positive feedback effects of oestradiol (E2) on GNRH secretion and a role for progesterone induced changes in the pattern of expression of GalRs in the regulation of the timing of E2's positive feedback through increased sensitivity of galanin-sensitive systems to secreted galanin.
Mechanisms of ligand specificity of the mineralocorticoid receptor
Authors: Fuller Peter J , Yao Yizou , Yang Jun , Young Morag J
Published: December 2011

The mineralocorticoid receptor (MR) differs from the other steroid receptors in that it responds to two physiological ligands, aldosterone and cortisol. In epithelial tissues, aldosterone selectivity is determined by the activity of 11β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase type 2, while in other tissues, including the heart and regions of the central nervous system, cortisol is the primary ligand for the MR where it may act as an antagonist. Clinical trials have demonstrated the potential of MR antagonists in the treatment of cardiovascular disease, though their use has been limited by concurrent hyperkalaemia. In order to better target the MR, an understanding of the structural determinants of tissue- and ligand-specific MR activation is needed. Interactions of the MR have been identified, which exhibit ligand discrimination and/or specificity. These interactions include those of the ligand-binding domain with ligand, with the N-terminal domain and with putative co-regulatory molecules. Agonist and antagonist binding have been characterised using chimeras between the human MR and the glucocorticoid receptor or the zebra fish MR together with molecular modelling. The interaction between the N-terminus and the C-terminus is aldosterone dependent but is unexpectedly antagonised by cortisol and deoxycorticosterone in the human MR. Nuclear receptor-mediated transactivation is critically dependent on, and modulated by, co-regulatory molecules. Proteins that interact with the MR in the presence of either aldosterone or cortisol, but not both, have been identified. The successful identification of ligand-specific interactions of the MR may provide the basis for the development of novel MR ligands with tissue specificity.
Internalization of adhesion junction proteins and their association with recycling endosome marker proteins in rat seminiferous epithelium
Authors: Young J'Nelle S , Takai Yoshimi , Kojic Katarina L , Vogl A Wayne
Published: December 2011

Tubulobulbar complexes (TBCs) are elaborate cytoskeleton-related structures that are formed in association with intercellular junctions in the seminiferous epithelium. They consist of a cylindrical double-membrane core composed of the plasma membranes of the two attached cells, cuffed by a dendritic network of actin filaments. TBCs are proposed to be subcellular machines that internalize intercellular junctions during the extensive junction remodeling that occurs during spermatogenesis. At the apical sites of attachment between Sertoli cells and spermatids, junction disassembly is part of the sperm release mechanism. In this study, we used immunological probes to explore junction internalization and recycling at apical TBCs in the rat seminiferous epithelium. We demonstrate that β1-integrin and nectin 2 were concentrated at the ends of TBCs and for the first time show that the early endosome marker RAB5A was also distinctly localized at the ends of TBCs that appear to be the ‘bulbar’ regions of the complexes. Significantly, we also demonstrate that the ‘long-loop’ recycling endosome marker RAB11A was co-distributed with nectin 2 at junctions with early spermatids deeper in the epithelium. Our results are consistent with the hypothesis that TBCs associated with late spermatids internalize adhesion junctions and also indicate that some of the internalized junction proteins may be recycled to form junctions with the next generation of spermatids.
Histologic Chorioamnionitis Is Associated With Reduced Risk of Late-Onset Sepsis in Preterm Infants
Authors: Strunk Tobias , Doherty Dorota , Jacques MBiostat Angela , Simmer Karen , Richmond Peter , Kohan Rolland , Charles Adrian , Burgner David
Published: December 2011

Background:

Histologic chorioamnionitis (HCA) is implicated in the onset of preterm labor and delivery. Chorioamnionitis is a known risk factor for early-onset sepsis and may modulate postnatal immunity. Preterm infants are at greatly increased risk of late-onset sepsis (LOS), particularly with coagulase-negative staphylococci (CoNS), but the impact of HCA on the risk of LOS is unknown.

Methods:

Eight hundred thirty-eight preterm infants born at <30 weeks gestational age at a single tertiary center were included. Histologic examination of placenta and extraplacental membranes was performed, and clinical data were extracted from hospital databases. The influence of HCA on the incidence of early-onset sepsis and LOS was examined using logistic regression analysis and Cox proportional hazards regression.

Results:

Mean gestational age was 26.9 ± 1.9 weeks, and mean birth weight was 936 ± 277 g. Two hundred and seventy-six (33%) of 838 infants developed LOS. The presence of fetal or maternal HCA, or maternal HCA and fetal HCA alone, was associated with a significantly decreased risk of LOS with any organism. Histologic chorioamnionitis correlated with a significantly decreased risk of CoNS LOS.

Conclusions:

HCA is associated with a significantly reduced risk of acquiring LOS, both with CoNS and other bacteria. Perinatal inflammation may enhance the functional maturation of the preterm immune system and provide protection against LOS in high-risk preterm infants.
Clinical Characteristics and Risk Factors for Symptomatic Pediatric Gallbladder Disease
Authors: Mehta Seema , Lopez Monica E. , Chumpitazi Bruno P. , Mazziotti Mark V. , Brandt Mary L. , Fishman Douglas S.
Published: December 2011

Objective:

Our center previously reported its experience with pediatric gallbladder disease and cholecystectomies from 1980 to 1996. We aimed to determine the current clinical characteristics and risk factors for symptomatic pediatric gallbladder disease and cholecystectomies and compare these findings with our historical series.

Study Design:

Retrospective, cross-sectional study of children, 0 to 18 years of age, who underwent a cholecystectomy from January 2005 to October 2008.

Results:

We evaluated 404 patients: 73% girls; 39% Hispanic and 35% white. The mean age was 13.10 ± 0.91 years. The primary indications for surgery in patients 3 years or older were symptomatic cholelithiasis (53%), obstructive disease (28%), and biliary dyskinesia (16%). The median BMI percentile was 89%; 39% were classified as obese. Of the patients with nonhemolytic gallstone disease, 35% were obese and 18% were severely obese; BMI percentile was 99% or higher. Gallstone disease was associated with hemolytic disease in 23% (73/324) of patients and with obesity in 39% (126/324). Logistic regression demonstrated older age (P = .019) and Hispanic ethnicity (P < .0001) as independent risk factors for nonhemolytic gallstone disease. Compared with our historical series, children undergoing cholecystectomy are more likely to be Hispanic (P = .003) and severely obese (P < .0279).

Conclusion:

Obesity and Hispanic ethnicity are strongly correlated with symptomatic pediatric gallbladder disease. In comparison with our historical series, hemolytic disease is no longer the predominant risk factor for symptomatic gallstone disease in children.
Prognostic Models for Stillbirth and Neonatal Death in Very Preterm Birth: A Validation Study
Authors: Schuit Ewoud , Hukkelhoven Chantal W.P.M. , Manktelow Bradley N. , Papatsonis Dimitri N.M. , de Kleine Martin J.K. , Draper Elizabeth S. , Steyerberg Ewout W. , Vergouwe Yvonne
Published: December 2011

Objectives:

To validate externally 2 prognostic models for stillbirth and neonatal death in very preterm infants who are either known to be alive at the onset of labor or admitted for neonatal intensive care.

Patients And Methods:

All infants, with gestational age 22 to 32 weeks, of European ethnicity, known to be alive at the onset of labor (n = 17 582) and admitted for neonatal intensive care (n = 11 578), who were born in the Netherlands between January 1, 2000, and December 31, 2007. The main outcome measures were stillbirth or death within 28 days for infants known to be alive at the onset of labor and death before discharge from the NICU for infants admitted for intensive care. Model performance was studied with calibration plots and c statistic.

Results:

Of the infants known to be alive at the onset of labor, 16.7% (n = 2939) died during labor or within 28 days of birth, and 7.8% (n = 908) of the infants admitted for neonatal intensive care died before discharge from intensive care. The prognostic model for infants known to be alive at the onset of labor showed good calibration and excellent discrimination (c statistic 0.92). The prognostic model for infants admitted for neonatal intensive care showed good calibration and good discrimination (c statistic 0.82).

Conclusions:

The 2 prognostic models for stillbirth and neonatal death in very preterm Dutch infants showed good performance, suggesting their use in clinical practice in the Netherlands and possibly other Western countries.
Trivalent Inactivated Influenza Vaccine Is Not Associated With Sickle Cell Crises in Children
Authors: Hambidge Simon J. , Ross Colleen , Glanz Jason , McClure David , Daley Matthew F. , Xu Stan , Shoup Jo Ann , Narwaney Komal , Baggs James , Weintraub Eric ,   the Vaccine Safety Datalink Team
Published: December 2011

Background and Objectives:

Children with sickle cell disease are considered at high risk for complications from influenza infection and are recommended to receive annual influenza vaccination. However, data on the safety of influenza vaccination in children with sickle cell anemia are sparse.

Methods:

Using a retrospective cohort of children aged 6 months to 17 years in 8 managed care organizations that comprise the Vaccine Safety Datalink and who had a diagnosis of sickle cell anemia from 1999 to 2006, we conducted matched case-control and self-controlled case series studies to examine the association of trivalent inactivated influenza vaccination with hospitalization for sickle cell crisis in the 2 weeks after vaccination.

Results:

From an original pool of 1085 pediatric subjects with a diagnosis of sickle cell anemia, we identified 179 children with at least 1 sickle cell crisis during any influenza season (October 1–March 31). In the matched case-control study (matching on age category, gender, Vaccine Safety Datalink site, and season), the odds ratio of hospitalization for a crisis in vaccinated compared with unvaccinated children was not significant: 1.3 (95% confidence interval 0.8–2.2). In the self-controlled case series study of hospitalized cases, the incident rate ratio for hospitalization with sickle cell crisis in the 2 weeks after trivalent inactivated influenza vaccination was also not significant: 1.2 (95% confidence interval 0.75–1.95).

Conclusions:

This large cohort study did not find an association of influenza vaccination and hospitalization for sickle cell crises in children with sickle cell anemia.
The justification of the new generation standardisation in NC programming
Authors: Gyurika I. G. , Mrena Zs.
Published: December 2011

The STEP NC system that replaces the ISO 6983 standard has been under development more than 10 years. However, just a few control developers find alternatives in the new standard that includes several completed modules. The paper shows in which role the industrial companies could use a new generation NC standard. The paper concludes the parameters that support the setting up of a mathematical model for a place-centered application with the help of case studies. The expected powerful opportunities of the application of a new generation NC standard are described with the help of case studies.
Method for the determination of sorption isotherms of materials demonstrated through soil samples
Authors: Lakatos Á.
Published: December 2011

Proper understanding of sorption behaviour of the materials is important from the point of view of fundamental research and technology as well for applied building technology. In this paper a simple method is presented for measuring water sorption capability of solid bodies. Moisture sorption and desorption measurements were carried out on soil samples by using climatic chamber. After drying the samples in a Venticell 111 type drying equipment they were treated with a Climacell 111 type climate chamber, where the relative humidity (RH) was varied from 40 to 83% at 22°C for different times (40, 80, 120 and 240 minutes). The samples reached the equilibrium moisture content after 120 minutes for sorption. The desorption isotherm measurements were carried out at 22°C for 80 minutes of exposure at constant RH. At this point hysteresis phenomenon was observed. Besides the moisture content figures the time evolution of the damping process is also presented in this paper.
Histopathological study of radicular cysts diagnosed in a Brazilian population
Authors: Santos Luciano Cincurá Silva , Vilas Bôas Deise Souza , Oliveira Gabriel Queiroz Vasconcelos , Ramos Eduardo Antônio Gonçalves , Gurgel Clarissa Araújo Silva , Santos Jean Nunes dos
Published: December 2011

The aim of this study was to investigate the histopathological features of radicular cysts (RCs) diagnosed in a Brazilian population. Seventy-three cases of RCs, from a total of 1480 biopsies diagnosed between 2001 and 2008 at the Laboratory of Oral Surgical Pathology of the Dental School of the Federal University of Bahia were investigated regarding their histopathological features. Morphological results showed that exocytosis (n=50), spongiosis (n=40), acanthosis (n=28), atrophic epithelium (n=27) and apoptotic bodies (n=21) were the most common findings. Other morphological findings included: foamy macrophages (n=10), Russell’s bodies (n=7), cholesterol crystals (n=7) and glandular-like odontogenic epithelial rests (n=1). Evidence of exogenous material was seen in 16 samples. It was concluded that the clinical and histopathological findings observed in Brazilian patients were comparable with those described for other populations.
Influence of female hormonal fluctuation on maximum occlusal force
Authors: Gonçalves Thaís Marques Simek Vega , Vasconcelos Lucíola Maria Rodrigues de , Silva Wander José da , Del Bel Cury Altair Antoninha , Garcia Renata Cunha Matheus Rodrigues
Published: December 2011

Hormonal fluctuations during the menstrual cycle may influence on muscular tensions and probably alter occlusal force. The aim of this study was to evaluate whether hormonal levels affect maximum occlusal force (MOF) of healthy women throughout the different phases of the menstrual cycle. Sixty complete dentate subjects who were not under use of oral contraceptives were selected to participate in this study. MOF was bilaterally evaluated on the molar region, during 3 complete menstrual cycles, using 5.65 mm-wide sensors. Measurements were carried out during each of the following menstrual cycle phases: menstrual, follicular, periovulatory and luteal, presumed by ovulation test. Data were analyzed by one-way ANOVA and Tukey-Kramer test (p<0.05). Comparisons among menstrual cycle phases showed no differences on MOF (p=0.27). Under the conditions of this study, it may be concluded that hormonal fluctuations during the menstrual cycle do not affect MOF of a sample of healthy women.
Efeito da adição de soro de queijo no processo de obtenção de etanol a partir de batata-doce
Authors: Castro Isis Prado Meirelles de , Alvim Tarso da Costa , Santana Wesley Rosa de , Carvalho Valdira Dias Pereira de , Silveira Marcio Antonio da
Published: December 2011

Estudou-se o incremento na produção convencional de etanol de batata-doce [Ipomoea batatas (L.) Lam.] incorporando soro de queijo ao processo e a variação nos teores de proteína bruta dos resíduos sólidos úmidos gerados por esses processos utilizando-se dois cultivares selecionados no estado do Tocantins. O incremento na produção convencional de álcool de batata-doce alcançou um porcentual de 16,6% quando o soro de queijo hidrolisado foi incorporado ao processo, resumidos em até 28,9 litros a mais de etanol por tonelada de raiz. Houve uma variação no teor de proteína bruta nos resíduos sólidos úmidos gerados nos processos substituídos pelo soro de queijo em comparação ao gerado pelo processo testemunha de até 32,1% a mais de proteína. Os resultados obtidos mostram a viabilidade da incorporação do soro de queijo no processo convencional de produção de etanol de batata-doce, possibilitando o reaproveitamento deste coproduto da indústria de laticínio.
NKG2D: Binding Properties for Glycan Ligands, and Mutagenesis Analysis
Authors: Higai Koji , Matsumoto Sayo , Kimura Megumi , Imaizumi Yuzo , Yanai Kazuyuki , Azuma Yutaro , Matsumoto Kojiro
Published: December 2011

Killer lectin-like receptor NKG2D, which is found on natural killer cells, recognizes MHC class 1-related
ligands and also interacts with glycan ligands, heparin-conjugated bovine serum albumin (heparin-BSA) and sialyl Lewis
X (sLeX) on multi-antennary N-glycans on transferrin secreted by HepG2 cells (HepTF). Using the glutathione-Stransferase-
fused extracellular domain (AA 73-216) of NKG2D (rGST-NKG2D) and seven site-directed mutants, we explored
in detail the binding of NKG2D to sulfate-containing glycan-BSA and HepTF. rGST-NKG2D binds to sulfatecontaining
glycan-BSA with Kd values of 25 nM ±15 for λ-carrageenan-BSA, 66 ±23 nM for fucoidan-BSA, and 1.5±0.5
μM for heparan sulfate-BSA. Of the site-directed rGST-NKG2D mutants, Y152A, Q185A, K197A, Y199A, E201A, and
N207A reduced binding to these glycans. These results indicate that NKG2D interacts with highly sulfated- and α2,3-
NeuAc-containing glycans and suggest that the glycan-binding sites on NKG2D are shared between sulfate- and α2,3-
NeuAc-containing glycans, and might overlap with protein ligand binding sites.
Quasi-particle fermionic formulas for (k, 3)-admissible configurations
Authors: Jerković Miroslav , Primc Mirko
Published: December 2011

We construct new monomial quasi-particle bases of Feigin-Stoyanovsky type subspaces for the affine Lie algebra sl(3;ℂ)∧ from which the known fermionic-type formulas for (k, 3)-admissible configurations follow naturally. In the proof we use vertex operator algebra relations for standard modules and coefficients of intertwining operators.
Tourism and landscape in South Tyrol
Authors: Kreisel Werner , Reeh Tobias
Published: December 2011

An increasing number of the people responsible for promoting tourism understand the necessity of landscape conservation and sustainable development. Sustainability and the maintenance of regional identity depend on the kind of tourism that takes account of the landscape and stops short of a blind modification of it, for instance through the installation of inappropriate large-scale tourist infrastructure. Since the 1970s South Tyrol, Italy’s most northern province (Autonome Provinz Bozen/Südtirol; Provincia Autonoma di Bolzano/Alto Adige), has engaged in tourism of outstanding quality, centreed on the existing landscape potential. Until today this has been the basis for successful tourism development. In the meantime however, there have been calls in South Tyrol for a quantitative expansion, founded on the implementation of an artificial touristic infrastructure and products. As is the case in many other alpine regions, this could be detrimental to the quality of the landscape. Supported by tourism research and based on the authors’ own long-standing experience, this article analyzes the development and trends of tourism in South Tyrol from a geographical perspective and takes a critical look at the various planning prospects and the problems which might evolve for the landscape and for tourism marketing.
Fatna El Bouih and the Work of Memory, Gender, and Reparation in Morocco
Authors: Slyomovics Susan
Published: December 2011

Fatna El Bouih stands as a well-known Moroccan activist whose life embraces a remarkable trajectory and a wide array of roles: former political prisoner, writer, academically trained sociologist, witness, individual claimant for truth commission reparations, and, most recently, maker of museum-based memorials at Derb Moulay Cherif, once Casablanca’s torture center during the country’s colonial and post-independence era regimes. The museum project also focuses on Morocco’s largest urban agglomeration, Casablanca, and targets a sector of the city and its inhabitants’ rights as citizens in order to consider the variety of ongoing and future Moroccan communal reparation projects. By analyzing governmental, quasi-governmental, and international initiatives that enlist architecture, women’s testimonies, museum-making, and monuments, this essay focuses on Morocco’s post-truth commission efforts to document a Casablanca working class district—simultaneously as a site targeted for communal reparations, as an urban and historical space of dissidence, and as the location of Morocco’s infamous space of incarceration and human rights abuses.
Scientific publications and peer-review systems in bio-medical journals
Authors: Badhu BP
Published: December 2011

DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/hren.v9i3.5578 HR 2011; 9(3): 132-133
The impact of training on the use of electronic health records
Authors: Devkota B , Lamia JF , Pommer N , Smith J , Whitman B
Published: December 2011

Background: Studies have found that health information technology can improve the quality and efficiency of care delivery through better decision support. Objective: To gauge the effectiveness of electronic health records (EHR) training that was delivered to health care providers in an academic practice, to leverage feedback from the training evaluation to inform the content and process of training health care providers and to understand the impact of EHR implementation on all facets of health care delivery. Methods: A mixed methods instrument was designed to assess learning outcomes (cognitive, attitudinal and behavioral) associated with EHR training. A sample of 220 health care providers who regularly interacted with the EHR system was included. Participants were asked to evaluate cognitive, attitudinal, and behavioral aspects of their training with the EHR system. A multidimensional assessment of learning outcomes was selected. Results: On behavioral theme, 50% of our survey respondents answered the questions positively, 28% did not, 16% had mixed feelings, 3% felt EHR had negative impacts and 3% were neutral. On cognitive theme 31% felt EHR had a positive impact, 33% felt it had drawbacks whereas 35% left the answers blank and 1% felt they had no idea. On attitudinal theme, there was positive response from 45%, 21% had negative feelings about the system, 5% were neutral and the rest 25% did not answer. Conclusions: In this study, we found that majority of the respondents were satisfied with the EHR for behavioral and attitudinal themes. Future studies with mandatory response to cognitive theme will help figure out the satisfaction of survey respondents on all themes. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/hren.v9i3.5580   HR 2011; 9(3): 140-147
Role of methyleprednisolone succinate in the management of acute spinal cord injury
Authors: Karn NK , Shrestha BP , Khanal GP , Rijal R , Chaudhary P , Mahato IP , Das N
Published: December 2011

Objective: To see the role of methyleprednisolone succinate in the management of acute spinal cord injury. Methods: A randomized control trial was done including the patients with acute spinal cord injury. They were divided into age and gender matched two groups. Patients with presence of active infection, associated open fracture, those on long term steroid and those who did not give consent to participate in the trial were excluded. One group received methyleprednisolone succinate within 8 hours of injury and another group did not receive the drug. Both the groups were managed nonoperatively. The neurological status of the patients was assessed at presentation, once spinal shock was over, at 6th week and 6th month and after one year according to ASIA scoring. Frankel grading was also assessed in every follow up. Conclusion: Methylprednisolone succinct prevents secondary cord injury to a great extent and hence its administration within 8 hours of injury results in a better functional (motor and sensory) outcome. Keywords: acute spinal cord injury; methyleprednisolone succinate DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/hren.v9i3.5585   HR 2011; 9(3): 168-172