bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Impact of Asthma 101 Training on Level of Nursing Students’ Knowledge
Authors: Zuniga Genny Carrillo , Seol Yoon Ho , Kirk Sarah , Hernandez Thedora , Nadeau Nancy , Zuniga Miguel A.
Published: August 2010

The Asthma 101 training, developed by the American Lung Association, was offered in 2009 to 93 senior bachelor of science in nursing (BSN) students. It was offered again in 2010 to 65 senior BSN students enrolled at the University of Texas Pan American in Edinburg, Texas. The training included both a pretest and posttest to evaluate changes in level of knowledge. Nursing students who were trained in 2009 participated in an asthma study offering asthma education to local elementary and middle schools students and their parents. The goal of Asthma 101 training was to educate nursing students so that they could provide general information about asthma to elementary school children and their parents, which could be done in a variety of settings such as health fairs and in classrooms. Test results for those who received the 2009 training showed an improvement in their knowledge about asthma. More than 95% of participants were very or somewhat satisfied with the Asthma 101 training. Test results in 2010 showed a significant improvement in participants’ knowledge in 2 areas: taking asthma medications to prevent an asthma episode ( P = .001) and occurrence of asthma symptoms ( P = .016). Two questions of statistical significance related to the use of medications and asthma episode demonstrated that nursing students had increased their knowledge in these areas. These findings suggest that health professionals can acquire additional knowledge from a brief yet focused training, such as the Asthma 101 training outlined in this article.
Deep sequencing-based transcriptome profiling analysis of bacteria-challenged Lateolabrax japonicus reveals insight into the immune-relevant genes in marine fish
Authors: Xiang Li-xin , He Ding , Dong Wei-ren , Zhang Yi-wen , Shao Jian-zhong
Published: August 2010

Background

Systematic research on fish immunogenetics is indispensable in understanding the origin and evolution of immune systems. This has long been a challenging task because of the limited number of deep sequencing technologies and genome backgrounds of non-model fish available. The newly developed Solexa/Illumina RNA-seq and Digital gene expression (DGE) are high-throughput sequencing approaches and are powerful tools for genomic studies at the transcriptome level. This study reports the transcriptome profiling analysis of bacteria-challengedLateolabrax japonicususing RNA-seq and DGE in an attempt to gain insights into the immunogenetics of marine fish.

Results

RNA-seq analysis generated 169,950 non-redundant consensus sequences, among which 48,987 functional transcripts with complete or various length encoding regions were identified. More than 52% of these transcripts are possibly involved in approximately 219 known metabolic or signalling pathways, while 2,673 transcripts were associated with immune-relevant genes. In addition, approximately 8% of the transcripts appeared to be fish-specific genes that have never been described before. DGE analysis revealed that the host transcriptome profile ofVibrio harveyi-challengedL. japonicusis considerably altered, as indicated by the significant up- or down-regulation of 1,224 strong infection-responsive transcripts. Results indicated an overall conservation of the components and transcriptome alterations underlying innate and adaptive immunity in fish and other vertebrate models. Analysis suggested the acquisition of numerous fish-specific immune system components during early vertebrate evolution.

Conclusion

This study provided a global survey of host defence gene activities against bacterial challenge in a non-model marine fish. Results can contribute to the in-depth study of candidate genes in marine fish immunity, and help improve current understanding of host-pathogen interactions and evolutionary history of immunogenetics from fish to mammals.
Distinguishing between cancer driver and passenger gene alteration candidates via cross-species comparison: a pilot study
Authors: Ji Xinglai , Tang Jie , Halberg Richard , Busam Dana , Ferriera Steve , Peña Maria Marjorette O , Venkataramu Chinnambally , Yeatman Timothy J , Zhao Shaying
Published: August 2010

Background

We are developing a cross-species comparison strategy to distinguish between cancer driver- and passenger gene alteration candidates, by utilizing the difference in genomic location of orthologous genes between the human and other mammals. As an initial test of this strategy, we conducted a pilot study with human colorectal cancer (CRC) and its mouse model C57BL/6JApcMin/+, focusing on human 5q22.2 and 18q21.1-q21.2.

Methods

We first performed bioinformatics analysis on the evolution of 5q22.2 and 18q21.1-q21.2 regions. Then, we performed exon-targeted sequencing, real time quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR), and real time quantitative reverse transcriptase PCR (qRT-PCR) analyses on a number of genes of both regions with both human and mouse colon tumors.

Results

These two regions (5q22.2 and 18q21.1-q21.2) are frequently deleted in human CRCs and encode genuine colorectal tumor suppressorsAPCandSMAD4. They also encode genes such asMCC(mutated in colorectal cancer) with their role in CRC etiology unknown. We have discovered that both regions are evolutionarily unstable, resulting in genes that are clustered in each human region being found scattered at several distinct loci in the genome of many other species. For instance,APCandMCCare within 200 kb apart in human 5q22.2 but are 10 Mb apart in the mouse genome. Importantly, our analyses revealed that, while known CRC driver genesAPCandSMAD4were disrupted in both human colorectal tumors and tumors fromApcMin/+mice, the questionableMCCgene was disrupted in human tumors but appeared to be intact in mouse tumors.

Conclusions

These results indicate thatMCCmay not actually play any causative role in early colorectal tumorigenesis. We also hypothesize that its disruption in human CRCs is likely a mere result of its close proximity toAPCin the human genome. Expanding this pilot study to the entire genome may identify more questionable genes likeMCC, facilitating the discovery of new CRC driver gene candidates.
The leading methods of suicide in Taiwan, 2002-2008
Authors: Lin Jin-Jia , Chang Shu-Sen , Lu Tsung-Hsueh
Published: August 2010

Background

Diverse socioeconomic and cultural developments between geographic regions and cities/counties have resulted in different physical availability and socio-cultural acceptability of certain methods of suicide. This study examined the changes in distribution of the leading methods of suicide across cities/counties in Taiwan between 2002-04 and 2006-08.

Methods

Mortality data for all deaths classified as suicide or as of undetermined intent from 2002 through 2008 were extracted for analysis. The number of deaths and proportion of completed suicides by four main methods were calculated in order to identify the leading lethal methods in each city/county.

Results

Hanging was the leading method of suicide in 18 out of 22 cities/counties in 2002-04 but decreased to 10 out of 22 in 2006-08. On the other hand, charcoal burning was not the leading method in any city/county in 2002-04 but increased to 10 out of 22 in 2006-08. The younger the age of the deceased, the more likely the leading method of suicide changed from 2002-04 to 2006-08. Charcoal burning was the most often used method in most cities/counties among those aged 15-44; however, hanging was most frequent for those aged 45 or above. Pesticides were the leading method for the elderly in five counties with a high percentage of agricultural population in 2006-08.

Conclusion

The leading method of suicide varied by age group and changed from 2002-04 to 2006-08 in Taiwan. This was due primarily to changes in socio-cultural acceptability of the use of charcoal burning as a method for suicide by younger age groups.
Factors associated with dental caries among institutionalized residents with schizophrenia in Taiwan: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Chu Kuan-Yu , Yang Nan-Ping , Chou Pesus , Chiu Hsien-Jane , Chi Lin-Yang
Published: August 2010

Background

Little research has been done on the relationship between dental caries and the personal characteristics of institutionalized residents diagnosed with schizophrenia. This study investigates the individual and treatment factors associated with the dental caries among institutionalized residents with schizophrenia in Taiwan.

Methods

An oral health survey of institutionalized residents with schizophrenia in the largest public psychiatric hospital was conducted in Taiwan in 2006. Based on this data, multiple logistic analyses were used to determine the relationship between some explanatory variables and the outcome variables of dental caries among subjects with schizophrenia.

Results

Among the 1,108 subjects with schizophrenia, age was the only variable independently associated with DMFT > 8 (OR = 7.74, 95% CI = 3.86-15.55, p < 0.001 in comparison to residents aged 65 + years vs. 20-44 years; OR = 3.06, 95% CI = 2.03-4.61, p < 0.001 in comparison to residents aged 55-64 years vs. 20-44 years) after making adjustments for other explanatory variables. In addition, those with an education of only elementary school (OR = 1.67, 95% CI = 1.08-2.56, p = 0.021), low income (OR = 1.58, 95% CI = 1.02-2.44, p = 0.039), and length of stay (LOS) of > 10 years (OR = 2.09, 95% CI = 1.30-3.37, p = 0.002) were associated with a care index < 54.7%. Older age, lower educational level, and longer hospital stays were associated with number of remaining teeth being < 24.

Conclusions

Aging was the most important factor related to a high level of dental caries. Low educational level, low income, and LOS were also associated with the indicators of dental caries among institutionalized subjects with schizophrenia. It is necessary to address the treatment factors such as prolonged stay in institutions when decision-makers are planning for preventive strategies of oral health for institutionalized residents with schizophrenia.
Identification of Staphylococcus aureus: DNase and Mannitol salt agar improve the efficiency of the tube coagulase test
Authors: Kateete David P , Kimani Cyrus N , Katabazi Fred A , Okeng Alfred , Okee Moses S , Nanteza Ann , Joloba Moses L , Najjuka Florence C
Published: August 2010

Background

The ideal identification ofStaphylococcus aureusclinical isolates requires a battery of tests and this is costly in resource limited settings. In many developing countries, the tube coagulase test is usually confirmatory forS. aureusand is routinely done using either human or sheep plasma. This study evaluated Mannitol salt agar and the deoxyribonuclease (DNase) test for improving the efficiency of the tube coagulase test in resource limited settings. The efficiency of human and sheep plasma with tube coagulase tests was also evaluated.

Methods

One hundred and eighty Gram positive, Catalase positive cocci occurring in pairs, short chains or clusters were subjected to growth on Mannitol salt agar, deoxyribonuclease and tube coagulase tests. Of these, isolates that were positive for at least two of the three tests (n = 60) were used to evaluate the performance of the tube coagulase test for identification ofS. aureus, using PCR-amplification of thenucgene as a gold standard.

Results

Human plasma was more sensitive than sheep plasma for the tube coagulase test (sensitivity of 91% vs. 81% respectively), but both plasmas had very low specificity (11% and 7% respectively). The sensitivity and specificity of the tube coagulase test (human plasma) was markedly improved when Mannitol salt agar and DNase were introduced as a tri-combination test for routine identification ofStaphylococcus aureus(100% specificity and 75% sensitivity). The specificity and sensitivity of Mannitol salt agar/DNase/tube coagulase (sheep plasma) combination was 100% and 67%, respectively.

Conclusion

The efficiency of the tube coagulase test can be markedly improved by sequel testing of the isolates with Mannitol salt agar, DNase and Tube coagulase. There is no single phenotypic test (including tube coagulase) that can guarantee reliable results in the identification ofStaphylococcus aureus.
Entraining in trout: a behavioural and hydrodynamic analysis
Authors: Przybilla Anja , Kunze Sebastian , Rudert Alexander , Bleckmann Horst , Brücker Christoph
Published: August 2010

Rheophilic fish commonly experience unsteady flows and hydrodynamic perturbations. Instead of avoiding turbulent zones though, rheophilic fish often seek out these zones for station holding. A behaviour associated with station holding in running water is called entraining. We investigated the entraining behaviour of rainbow trout swimming in the wake of a D-shaped cylinder or sideways of a semi-infinite flat plate displaying a rounded leading edge. Entraining trout moved into specific positions close to and sideways of the submerged objects, where they often maintained their position without corrective body and/or fin motions. To identify the hydrodynamic mechanism of entraining, the flow characteristics around an artificial trout placed at the position preferred by entraining trout were analysed. Numerical simulations of the 3-D unsteady flow field were performed to obtain the unsteady pressure forces. Our results suggest that entraining trout minimise their energy expenditure during station holding by tilting their body into the mean flow direction at an angle, where the resulting lift force and wake suction force cancel out the drag. Small motions of the caudal and/or pectoral fins provide an efficient way to correct the angle, such that an equilibrium is even reached in case of unsteadiness imposed by the wake of an object.
Phenotypic plasticity of gas exchange pattern and water loss in Scarabaeus spretus (Coleoptera: Scarabaeidae): deconstructing the basis for metabolic rate variation
Authors: Terblanche John S. , Clusella-Trullas Susana , Chown Steven L.
Published: August 2010

Investigation of gas exchange patterns and modulation of metabolism provide insight into metabolic control systems and evolution in diverse terrestrial environments. Variation in metabolic rate in response to environmental conditions has been explained largely in the context of two contrasting hypotheses, namely metabolic depression in response to stressful or resource-(e.g. water) limited conditions, or elevation of metabolism at low temperatures to sustain life in extreme conditions. To deconstruct the basis for metabolic rate changes in response to temperature variation, here we undertake a full factorial study investigating the longer- and short-term effects of temperature exposure on gas exchange patterns. We examined responses of traits of gas exchange [standard metabolic rate (SMR); discontinuous gas exchange (DGE) cycle frequency; cuticular, respiratory and total water loss rate (WLR)] to elucidate the magnitude and form of plastic responses in the dung beetle, Scarabaeus spretus. Results showed that short- and longer-term temperature variation generally have significant effects on SMR and WLR. Overall, acclimation to increased temperature led to a decline in SMR (from 0.071±0.004 ml CO2 h–1 in 15°C-acclimated beetles to 0.039±0.004 ml CO2 h–1 in 25°C-acclimated beetles measured at 20°C) modulated by reduced DGE frequency (15°C acclimation: 0.554±0.027 mHz, 20°C acclimation: 0.257±0.030 mHz, 25°C acclimation: 0.208±0.027 mHz recorded at 20°C), reduced cuticular WLRs (from 1.058±0.537 mg h–1 in 15°C-acclimated beetles to 0.900±0.400 mg h–1 in 25°C-acclimated beetles measured at 20°C) and reduced total WLR (from 4.2±0.5 mg h–1 in 15°C-acclimated beetles to 3.1±0.5 mg h–1 in 25°C-acclimated beetles measured at 25°C). Respiratory WLR was reduced from 2.25±0.40 mg h–1 in 15°C-acclimated beetles to 1.60±0.40 mg h–1 in 25°C-acclimated beetles measured at 25°C, suggesting conservation of water during DGE bursts. Overall, this suggests water conservation is a priority for S. spretus exposed to longer-term temperature variation, rather than elevation of SMR in response to low temperature acclimation, as might be expected from a beetle living in a relatively warm, low rainfall summer region. These results are significant for understanding the evolution of gas exchange patterns and trade-offs between metabolic rate and water balance in insects and other terrestrial arthropods.
Comparative jet wake structure and swimming performance of salps
Authors: Sutherland Kelly R. , Madin Laurence P.
Published: August 2010

Salps are barrel-shaped marine invertebrates that swim by jet propulsion. Morphological variations among species and life-cycle stages are accompanied by differences in swimming mode. The goal of this investigation was to compare propulsive jet wakes and swimming performance variables among morphologically distinct salp species (Pegea confoederata, Weelia (Salpa) cylindrica, Cyclosalpa sp.) and relate swimming patterns to ecological function. Using a combination of in situ dye visualization and particle image velocimetry (PIV) measurements, we describe properties of the jet wake and swimming performance variables including thrust, drag and propulsive efficiency. Locomotion by all species investigated was achieved via vortex ring propulsion. The slow-swimming P. confoederata produced the highest weight-specific thrust (T=53 N kg–1) and swam with the highest whole-cycle propulsive efficiency (ηwc=55%). The fast-swimming W. cylindrica had the most streamlined body shape but produced an intermediate weight-specific thrust (T=30 N kg–1) and swam with an intermediate whole-cycle propulsive efficiency (ηwc=52%). Weak swimming performance variables in the slow-swimming C. affinis, including the lowest weight-specific thrust (T=25 N kg–1) and lowest whole-cycle propulsive efficiency (ηwc=47%), may be compensated by low energetic requirements. Swimming performance variables are considered in the context of ecological roles and evolutionary relationships.
Lusitanian toadfish song reflects male quality
Authors: Amorim M. Clara P. , Simões J. Miguel , Mendonça Nuno , Bandarra Narcisa M. , Almada Vitor C. , Fonseca Paulo J.
Published: August 2010

Lusitanian toadfish males that provide parental care rely on acoustic signals (the boatwhistle) to attract females to their nest. We test the hypothesis that male quality, namely male size and condition that are relevant for parental success, is reflected in vocal activity and boatwhistle characteristics and thus advertised to females. We recorded 22 males over a week during the peak of the breeding season. Calling rate and calling effort (percentage of time spent calling) strongly reflected male condition (lipid content of somatic muscles) and to a smaller extent sonic muscle hypertrophy and larger gonads. Males in better condition (increased body lipid and relative higher liver mass) also contracted the sonic muscles at faster rate as shown by the shorter boatwhistle pulse periods. Amplitude modulation reflected the degree of sonic muscle hypertrophy. None of the measured male quality parameters were good predictors of boatwhistle duration and dominant frequency. Altogether this study strongly suggests that Lusitanian toadfish males advertise their quality to females primarily with boatwhistle calling rate and calling effort, which mainly reflect male condition. Because pulse period had low variability, consistent with the existence of a vocal central pattern generator, we suggest that males that sustain sonic muscles contraction at a very fast rate close to their physiological limit may be honestly advertising their quality (condition). Similarly, males that produce boatwhistles with higher amplitude modulation, a feature that seems dependent on sonic muscle hypertrophy, could be more attractive to females.
Mentalizing, motivation, and social mentalities: Theoretical considerations and implications for psychotherapy
Authors: Liotti Giovanni , Gilbert Paul
Published: August 2010

Background. Mentalization has recently been identified as a major process in the origins, maintenance, and recovery from various mental disorders.

Aims. Questions arise however, as to the degree to which deficits in mentalization can be trait or state‐like: whether they manifest themselves across all types of human interaction, or are they relationship dependent, such that different types of relationship (e.g., affiliative vs. competitive) can facilitate or compromise mentalizing?

Findings. This paper suggests that mentalization has a complex evolutionary history, has various subtypes and functions, is highly regulated by the experience of threat or safeness within relationships, and can operate differently in different types of social relationship.

Implications. Awareness of this enables therapists to pay particular attention to the social roles and types of relationships in which mentalization occurs, its specific focus and functions for specific types of relationships. Therapists can be mindful of the kind of specific events in social roles that activate threat and loss of mentalizing (e.g., abandonment threats, feeling controlled by ‘the other’, status loss, non‐reciprocation).
Role of the second disulfide bridge (Cys18-Cys274) in stabilizing the inactive AT1 receptor
Authors: Martin Renan Paulo , da Silva Rodrigues Eliete , Correa Silvana Aparecida Alves , Oliveira Suzana Macedo , Mortara Renato Arruda , Oliveira Laerte , Nakaie Clovis Ryuichi , Shimuta Suma Imura
Published: August 2010

Previous research showed that disruption of the Cys18-Cys274bond in the angiotensin II (AngII) AT1receptor mutant (C18S), expressed in CHO cells, causes an increase in the basal activity and attenuation of the maximum response to AngII. In addition, this mutant was mostly intracellularly distributed. Our aim was to investigate whether the intracellular presence of the mutant was due to a constitutive internalization or to a defective maturation of the receptor. The first hypothesis was assessed by pretreating the cells with losartan or [Sar1Leu8]-AngII, specific AT1receptor antagonists, a maneuver to revert the receptor internalization. The second hypothesis was tested using calnexin, an endoplasmic reticulum marker. We found that treatment with AT1receptor antagonists causes an increase in the binding ability of the mutant to AngII. Furthermore, whereas the maximum effect is increased, it reduces the enhanced basal levels of IP3. The hypothesis for a lack of maturation of the mutant receptor was ruled out because calnexin was poorly colocalized with the intracellular C18S receptor. Our results suggest that the mutation of the AT1receptor leads to a conformational structure similar to that of the active mode of the AT1receptor, favoring its internalization in the absence of the agonist.
E. coli hypoxia-inducible factor ArcA mediates lifespan extension in a lipoic acid synthase mutant by suppressing acetyl-CoA synthetase
Authors: Gonidakis Stavros , Finkel Steven E. , Longo Valter D.
Published: August 2010

We have previously shown that both the hypoxia-inducible transcription factor ArcA and the PoxB/Acs bypass of the pyruvate dehydrogenase complex contribute to extended lifespan inEscherichia coli. In agreement with studies in higher eukaryotes, we also demonstrated that long-livedE. colimutants, including LipA-deficient cells, are stress resistant. Here, we show that ArcA contributes to the enhanced lifespan and heat shock resistance of thelipAmutant by suppressing expression of the acetyl-CoA synthetase (acs) gene. The deletion ofacsreversed the reduced lifespan of thelipA arcAmutant and promoted the accumulation of extracellular acetate, indicating that inhibition of carbon source uptake contributes to survival extension. However, Acs also sensitized cells lacking ArcA to heat shock, in the absence of extracellular acetate. These results provide evidence for the role of Acs in regulating lifespan and/or stress resistance by both carbon source uptake-dependent and -independent mechanisms.
Demonstration of protein absorption in the intestinal epithelium of fish and mice by laser scanning confocal microscopy
Authors: Yue Wan-fu , Zhou Fang , Malik Firdose Ahmad , Yang Hua-jun , Li Xing-hua , Roy Bhaskar , Reddy Srimivasa , Miao Yun-gen
Published: August 2010

Selective permeability for small proteins and oligopeptides occurs in the intestinal epithelium of many animal species and humans. Whole proteins are sometimes endocytosed and undergo partial hydrolysis in intestinal epithelial cells with the probable release of essential oligopeptides into the bloodstream. Increased permeability to certain proteins can cause asthma and other metabolic disorders. Permeable proteins have also been successfully used to deliver vaccines or drugs via oral consumption. Protein absorption has been inferred in many cases and demonstrated in some cases by histochemical, tracer, and analytical techniques. However, the nature and importance of protein absorption remains largely unknown. Here, we demonstrate the movement of two lumenal proteins (GFP: 26 kDa and OFP: 23 kDa) across the intestinal epithelium of fish and mice using laser scanning confocal microscopy. The results provide evidence that small proteins can be taken up intact by intestinal epithelial cells, even though large proteins are digested to single amino acids or protein fragments before they are absorbed. Our results suggest that it is possible to orally administer some small proteinous medicines for therapeutic purposes.
Glucose homeostasis and insulin sensitivity in growth hormone-transgenic mice: a cross-sectional analysis
Authors: Boparai Ravneet K. , Arum Oge , Khardori Romesh , Bartke Andrzej
Published: August 2010

In contrast to its stimulatory effects on musculature, bone, and organ development, and its lipolytic effects, growth hormone (GH) opposes insulin effects on glucose metabolism. Chronic GH overexposure is thought to result in insulin insensitivity and decreased blood glucose homeostatic control. Yet, despite the importance of this concept for basic biology, as well as human conditions of GH excess or deficiency, no systematic assessment of the impact of GH over- expression on glucose homeostasis and insulin sensitivity has been conducted. We report that male and female adult GH transgenic mice have enhanced glucose tolerance compared to littermate controls and this effect is not dependent on age or on the particular heterologous GH transgene used. Furthermore, increased glucose-stimulated insulin secretion, augmented insulin sensitivity, and muted gluconeogenesis were also observed in bovine GH overexpressing mice. These results show that markedly increased systemic GH concentration in GH-transgenic mice exerts unexpected beneficial effects on glucose homeostasis, presumably via a compensatory increase in insulin release. The counterintuitive nature of these results challenges previously held presumptions of the physiology of these mice and other states of GH overexpression or suppression. In addition, they pose intriguing queries about the relationships between GH, endocrine control of metabolism, and aging.
Effect of homeostasis model assessment computational method on the definition and associations of insulin resistance
Authors: Mojiminiyi Olusegun A. , Abdella Nabila A.
Published: August 2010

Background: Homeostasis model assessment (HOMA) is a surrogate index widely used to study the role of insulin sensitivity or resistance in associated disease states. However, reported values for the definition of insulin resistance (the top 25% of the distribution in non-diabetic subjects) vary widely. This study evaluates the effect of HOMA computational methods [original HOMA model formula (HOMA1) and online calculator computer model (HOMA2)] on the associations and cut-off limits for insulin resistance.

Methods: Anthropometric measurements, fasting adiponectin, leptin, leptin receptor, insulin, glucose, high-sensitivity C-reactive protein and a lipid profile were measured in type 2 diabetic patients (n=226) and their normoglycemic first degree relatives (n=319). HOMA1 and HOMA2 were used to estimate insulin resistance, β-cell function and insulin sensitivity. Subjects were classified as metabolic syndrome positive or negative (International Diabetes Federation criteria). Bland-Altmann analysis was used to evaluate agreement between the computational methods. Univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses were used to relate the HOMA computational methods with metabolic variables and metabolic syndrome status.

Results: The two computational methods had different cut-offs for the definition of insulin resistance: HOMA1 formula ≥2.5; HOMA2 calculator ≥1.4. Correlations of the two HOMA computational methods with anthropometric and metabolic variables showed some degree of variation. The odds ratios of the associations with the metabolic syndrome for the HOMA1 formula and HOMA2 calculator computational methods were 2.04 and 1.43, respectively. Receiver operating characteristic analysis for diagnosis of the metabolic syndrome showed that areas under the receiver operating characteristic curves for the HOMA1 formula and HOMA2 calculator computational methods were 0.741 and 0.680, respectively.

Conclusions: The HOMA computational method is a significant determinant of the associations and classification of insulin resistance.

Clin Chem Lab Med 2010;48:1629–34.
Totally imprimitive permutation groups with the cyclic-block property
Authors: Asar A. O.
Published: August 2010

Totally imprimitive
Designing Mixed Oxides Magnetic Nanoparticles for Sensing Applications
Authors: Sorescu Monica , Diamandescu L. , Tomescu A. , Krupa S.
Published: August 2010

Zirconium-doped hematite particles of the type xZrO2-(1-x)α-Fe2O3 (x=0.1, 0.5) were synthesized using mechanochemical activation and characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD) and Mössbauer spectroscopy. XRD patterns yielded the dependence of lattice parameters and particle size as a function of ball milling time for each value of the molar concentration x. The Mössbauer spectra were fitted with one or alternatively, four sextets, corresponding to Zr ions substituting Fe ions in the hematite structure and further required the addition of a quadrupole-split doublet, representing Fe substituting Zr in the ZrO2 lattice. We further correlated the structural properties of the zirconium-doped hematite system with the sensing properties. These were measured as function of temperature, gas concentration (carbon monoxide and methane) and variable humidity of air. The material system was found to be sensitive over the entire range of CO concentrations and the linearity of the sensor signal was not affected by the relative humidity of air, which makes it the ideal system for sensing devices. Comparative results obtained for tin-doped hematite nanoparticles are also presented.
Magnetic Nanostructures by Molecular Design: Synthetic Chemistry in Materials Research
Authors: Sandifer Jenn L. H. , Christou George
Published: August 2010

In the field of nanostructured magnetic materials, the top-down approach of making ever-smaller magnetic particles has been successful in decreasing the minimum size of magnetic nanoparticles made in this way. Simultaneously, synthetic chemists have employed a “bottom-up” approach to the same problem through discovery of increasingly large molecular magnetic clusters that behave as individual magnets at low temperature. These molecules are called single-molecule magnets, and they have been discovered in a variety of sizes, up to 4 nanometers in diameter. Some display interesting solid-state properties in the crystalline state: bistability through hydrogen bonding or crystallization in potentially useful patterns, such as tubes. The advantage of discrete molecules as nanoscale magnets is the monodispersity of particle size. As the molecular approach and the materials approach to nanoscale magnets brings the possible sizes of particles by each method within range of the other, interdisciplinary research into the complementarity of the two approaches becomes necessary. The magnetism displayed by nanoparticles and molecules alike at this size shows both classical and quantum properties, uniting the two types of production as a window into this area bridging the two major ways of describing the physical world. A discussion of the progress of the synthetic chemistry approach and physics in this area will be made, as well as a discussion of how molecular chemistry may fit in to the field of magnetic nanostructures.
Structural and Magneto-transport Properties of Cr-doped In2O3 Diluted Magnetic Semiconductors
Authors: Ukah N.B. , Gupta R K , Ghosh K , Kahol P K , Giedd R
Published: August 2010

We report the experimental study of the structural and magnetotransport properties of chromium-doped indium oxide (In2O3:Cr) thin films using x-ray diffractometer, and by measuring the resistivity and Hall effect as a function of temperature in various magnetic fields. The In2O3:Cr diluted magnetic semiconductor thin films were grown under different partial oxygen pressures (Po2) on sapphire substrates using pulsed laser deposition (PLD) technique. Observed expansions in lattice parameter and crystal size in these films with increase in oxygen growth pressure are traceable to the reduction in oxygen vacancies. A redshift of the absorption edges of the samples with increase in oxygen growth pressure is attributed to the significant improvement in crystallinity. The exchange interaction between the electron spins in the conduction band and the spins of the Cr 3d electrons was evident in the anomalous Hall effect (AHE), which persisted up to 300 K. An analysis of the dc electrical transport in the films was carried out using hopping conduction and ionized impurity scattering models.
Ionic conductivity in nanocrystalline Gd doped ceria
Authors: Baldinozzi Gianguido , Simeone David , Gosset Dominique , Dollé Mickael , Petot-Ervas Georgette
Published: August 2010

We have synthesized Gd-doped ceria polycrystalline samples (5, 10, 15 %mol), having relative densities exceeding 95% and grain sizes between 30 and 160 nm after axial hot pressing (750 °C, 250 MPa). The samples were prepared by sintering nanopowders obtained by sol-gel chemistry methods having a very narrow size distribution centered at about 16 nm. SEM and X-ray diffraction were performed to characterize the sample microstructures and to assess their structures. We report ionic conductivity measurements using impedance spectroscopy. It is important to investigate the properties of these systems with sub-micrometric grains and as a function of their composition. Therefore, samples having micrometric and nanometric grain sizes (and different Gd content) were studied. Evidence of Gd segregation near the grain boundaries is given and the impact on the ionic conductivity, as a function of the grain size and Gd composition, is discussed and compared to microcrystalline samples.
Transport in Polyiodide Networks of a Self-Assembled Lithium Iodide Battery
Authors: Yourey William M. , Weinstein Lawrence , Amatucci Glenn G.
Published: August 2010

As MEMS devices for biomedical and other applications continue to develop and decrease in dimensions, the demand for power supplies with the appropriate size and energy density continues to grow. Although energy density is an important factor, one of the most crucial factors is the ability to fabricate cells in a variety of shapes so to enable the greatest design flexibility when fabricating a device. Recently our group has introduced an electrochemically self formed battery to grant a path towards the greatest flexibility. In short, a nanocomposite of an alkali halide such as lithium iodide is placed between current collectors and polarized thereby creating a lithium anode and polyiodide cathode in-situ. As with primary lithium-iodine cells the transport within the cathode is a complex mechanism involving the Li+, I-, and e- all within the polyiodide network. After our recent work on in-situ EIS evaluation of the technology, we have launched on an effort to greater understand the limiting transport mechanisms in the positive electrode as a function of polyiodide network development.
An in-depth characterization study was performed on the LiI-I2-PVP-H20 at various molar ratios to understand the structural and conductivity changes that take place during formation of the cell A combination of AC impedance and DC polarization studies were used for the impedance characterization in conjunction with blocking electrode methodology for separating the conductivity into its electronic and ionic portions. Also, FTIR and Raman were used to structurally characterize the samples for both the polyiodide formation and the interaction between the polyiodides and polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP). Being non conjugated, PVP was chosen as it does not intrinsically contribute to the conductivity of the composite but does induce the formation of polyiodide species. As different molar ratio composites are prepared, the concentration of different polyiodide species (I3-, I5-, In-) within the composite change and affect the overall conductivity. A 3-dimensional plot of composite conductivity reveals a high electronic conductivity ridge for samples containing either LiI anhydrous or monohydrate at a constant I2 to PVP ratio. These 3-dimensional plots also allow us to correlate represent in an ex-situ format the electronic and ionic conductivity of the cathode/electrolyte at various depths of discharge.
Diffusion Paths for the Formation of Half-Heusler Type Thermoelectric Compound TiNiSn
Authors: Asami Chihiro , Kimura Yoshisato , Kita Takuji , Mishima Yoshinao
Published: August 2010

Half-Heusler compound TiNiSn is one of the most promising candidates of thermoelectric materials which can be used to directly convert the waste heat to clean electric energy at high temperatures (around 1000 K). Thermoelectric power generation is an appealing approach for conserving energy and preserving the global environment. Half-Heusler compounds have the cubic C1b type ordered structure and show semiconducting behavior when their valence electron count (VEC) is around 18. TiNiSn is the most attractive one not only because it has excellent thermoelectric properties but also it consists of eco-friendly elements which are neither toxic nor costly. However, TiNiSn has a bothersome problem that fabrication of single phase TiNiSn alloy is quite difficult. We have found that TiNiSn phase forms by the ternary peritectic reaction. Thereby, inevitable non-equilibrium solidification results in the formation of impurity coexisting phases which tend to decrease thermoelectric properties.
In the present work, to establish the basis of new fabrication processes for TiNiSn alloys, we have started from the investigation on the diffusion paths which are closely related to the formation of TiNiSn phase. The diffusion behavior was evaluated using solid/liquid diffusion couples composed of the binary Ti-Ni intermetallic compounds and Sn liquid phase, where we have selected TiNi, TiNi3 and Ti2Ni as solid phases for instance. The most interesting result is that the single-phase TiNiSn phase layer forms at the TiNi/Sn(L) interface during annealing at 1073 K for only 1 h. Moreover, faceted grains of TiNiSn single-crystal grow at the interface toward the liquid Sn phase. We have confirmed two interesting microstructural features using EBSD analyses. One is that most of these TiNiSn single-crystals have the same crystallographic orientation, and the other is that TiNiSn phase layer formed on the TiNi side of the interface consists of very fine sub-microns grains. While TiNiSn solely forms at the TiNi interface, Heusler TiNi2Sn also forms with TiNiSn at the TiNi3 interface and Ti6Sn5 tends to coexist at the Ti2Ni interface.
Phase Stability of the L12 Compound and Microstructural Changes in Co-(W or Mo)-Ta Ternary Alloys
Authors: Chinen Hibiki , Omori Toshihiro , Oikawa Katsunari , Ohnuma Ikuo , Kainuma Ryosuke , Ishida Kiyohito
Published: August 2010

Microstructural investigations of Co-5W-2.5Ta (at.%) and Co-4Mo-4.5Ta (at.%) ternary alloys were conducted. Fine coherent precipitates were observed in these alloys annealed at 800°C, and the crystal structures of precipitates (γ’) and matrix (γ) phase were identified as the L12 and A1 structure, respectively, by transmission electron microscopy. Cellular precipitation with a γ+χ(D019) lamellar structure also proceeded at grain boundaries, and the alloys aged for a longer time only showed the γ+χ two-phase microstructure instead of the γ’ phase. With aging at around 800°C, the peak hardness of these alloys with a γ+γ’ two phase structure was about 580 Hv.
Deformation Behavior of Niobium Silicides during High Temperature Compression
Authors: Sekido Nobuaki , Miura Seiji , Yamabe-Mitarai Yoko , Kimura Yoshisato , Mishima Yoshinao
Published: August 2010

Deformation behavior of (Nb)/α-Nb5Si3 two-phase alloys is examined by high temperature compression tests. The alloys exhibit brittle fracture behavior at temperatures up to 1473 K, while reasonable compressive deformability at 1673 K. Upon high temperature compression of the alloys, the flow stress gradually decreases after the peak stress due to the recrystallization/recovery in the (Nb) phase, as well as the increase in the density of mobile dislocations within the α-Nb5Si3 phase. Two types of slip systems that operate in α-Nb5Si3 have been identified as {011)<11-1] and {001)<100] in the present study.
Absorption-induced Deformations of Nanofiber Yarns and Nanofibrous Webs
Authors: Monaenkova Daria , Andrukh Taras , Kornev Kostya
Published: August 2010

Current advances in manufacturing of nanotubular and nanofibrous materials with high surface- to - volume ratios call for the development of adequate characterization methods and predictive estimates of the materials absorption capacity. Extremely high flexibility of these materials poses a challenge: their pore structure easily changes upon contact with the fluid in question. One more complication is that the absorption process is sufficiently fast: one hundred micron droplets disappear in milliseconds. This paper sets a physical basis for analyses of absorption processes in nanotubular and nanofibrous materials. As an example, we study absorption of droplets by yarns made of nanofibers and nanofibrous webs. We show that absorption can induce different types of deformations: visible deformations of the yarn profile and deformations of the yarn diameter/length caused by the capillary forces. Using experimental data and theory, we estimate elastic and transport characteristics of the nanofibrous materials. The reported experiments and proposed theory open a new area of research on absorption-induced deformations of nanotubular and nanofibrous materials and show their potential applications as sensors to probe minute amount of absorbable liquids.
Investigation of the Crystalline Orientations and Substrates Dependence on Mechanical Properties of PZT Thin Films by Nanoindentation
Authors: Liu Dan , Yoon Sang H , Zhou Bo , Prorok Barton C , Kim Dong-Joo
Published: August 2010

In this paper, we investigated the effects of the substrates and crystalline orientations on the mechanical properties of Pb(Zr0.52Ti0.48)O3 thin films. The PZT thin films were deposited by sol-gel method on platinized silicon substrates with different types of layer materials such as silicon nitride and silicon oxide. The crystalline orientations of PZT thin films were controlled by combined parameters of a chelating agent and pyrolysis temperature. A nanoindentation CSM (continuous stiffness measurement) technique was employed to characterize the mechanical properties of those PZT thin films. It was observed that (001/100)-oriented films show a higher Young’s modulus compared to films with mixed orientations of (110) and (111), indicating a clear dependence on film orientation. The influence of substrates on the mechanical properties of PZT thin films was also characterized. Finally, no significant influence of the film thickness was found on the mechanical properties of films thicker than 200 nm.
Surface Stability and Electronic Structure of Hydrogen and Fluorine Terminated Diamond Surfaces: a First Principles Investigation
Authors: Sen Fatih Gurcag , Qi Yue , Alpas Ahmet T
Published: August 2010

The stability and electronic structure of fully H or F terminated and mixed H and F terminated diamond (111) surfaces were studied using first principles calculations. It was found that F atoms on the surface, like H, formed sp3 type bonding with C atoms, which resulted in a more stable 1×1 configuration rather than the π-bonded 2×1 construction of clean diamond. A phase diagram showing the stable surface composition regions was constructed as a function of chemical potentials of H and F. The diagram shows that the surface with 75% F (25% H) termination was unstable. The F terminated surface was more stable than H termination due to the formation of strong ionic C-F bonding and the close packing of the large F atoms. Due to the attractive forces developed between F atoms, a close packed surface was formed. Additionally, the exposure of C to the environment became restricted because of the large size of F atoms. Hence, F terminated diamond surface was more chemically inert compared to H terminated surface. To bring two F terminated surfaces together, a large repulsive force was required due to the negative charge on F atoms, and this led to low adhesion between two F terminated diamond surfaces compared to two H terminated surfaces.
Lithographically Fabricated 10-Micron Scale Autonomous Motors
Authors: Wang Yang , Fei Shih-to , Crespi Vincent H. , Sen Ayusman , Mallouk Thomas E.
Published: August 2010

Self-propulsion and directed movement of nano- and micro-particles can in principle provide novel components for applications in microrobotics and MEMS. Our research involves the design of catalytic propulsion systems and the control of colloidal movement based on this principle. We have designed autonomous nanomotors that mimic biological motors by using catalytic reactions to generate forces derived from chemical gradients. Through architectural control of bimetallic catalytic particles, we have recently developed systems that undergo more complex movement. For example, we have constructed 10-micron scale rotary motors by contact lithography. In these chiral motors, bimetallic Au-Pt patterns are free-standing and move in the pattern predicted by theory. These studies demonstrate that by designing the proper architecture, one can tailor the pattern of movement to specific applications, such as changing from translational to rotational movement. The potential for elaboration of these designs to more complex micro-machine assemblies is discussed.
Percutaneous Biomedical Device with a Regenerative Materials Interface
Authors: Peramo Antonio , Marcelo Cynthia L. , Goldstein Steve , Martin David C.
Published: August 2010

We have developed an in vitro culture system composed of organotypic human skin explants interfaced with titanium rods or stainless steel fixator pins. The use of this interface provides a model to evaluate strategies for creating a stable, long-term connection with living skin and chronic percutaneous devices. Our hypothesis is that the delivery of specific biomaterials at this interface will create a dynamic, slowly flowing matrix for skin biointegration, local administration of drugs or antimicrobials. We define this concept as the generation of an artificial mucosa, because it mimics the situation of several epithelial tissues (like the periodontal junction between the tooth and the junctional epithelium) where antimicrobial peptides and mucins are constantly extruded.