bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Crucial involvement of the CX3CR1-CX3CL1 axis in dextran sulfate sodium-mediated acute colitis in mice
Authors: Kostadinova Feodora I , Baba Tomohisa , Ishida Yuko , Kondo Toshikazu , Popivanova Boryana K , Mukaida Naofumi
Published: March 2010

Dextran sulfate sodium ingestion causes CX3CR1-expressing macrophages to accumulate in intestinal submucosal areas and to express inducible NO synthetase, thereby causing acute colitis.

Ingestion of DSS solution can induce in rodents acute colitis with a massive infiltration of neutrophils and macropahges, mimicking pathological changes observed in the acute phase of UC patients. Concomitantly, DSS ingestion enhanced the expression of a potent macrophage-tropic chemokine, CX3CL1/fractalkine, and its receptor, CX3CR1, in the colon. WT but not CX3CR1-deficient mice exhibited marked body weight loss and shortening of the colon after DSS ingestion. Moreover, inflammatory cell infiltration was attenuated in CX3CR1-deficient mice together with reduced destruction of glandular architecture compared with WT mice. DSS ingestion enhanced intracolonic iNOS expression by macrophages and nitrotyrosine generation in WT mice, but iNOS expression and nitrotyrosine generation were attenuated in CX3CR1-deficient mice. The analysis on bone marrow chimeric mice revealed that bone marrow-derived but not non-bone marrow-derived CX3CR1-expressing cells were a major source of iNOS. These observations would indicate that the CX3CL1-CX3CR1 axis can regulate the expression of iNOS, a crucial mediator of DSS-induced colitis. Thus, targeting the CX3CL1-CX3CR1 axis may be effective for the treatment of IBDs such as UC.
Discontinuation of Growth Hormone (GH) Treatment during the Transition Phase Is an Important Factor Determining the Phenotype of Young Adults with Nonidiopathic Childhood-Onset GH Deficiency
Authors: Kołtowska-Häggström Maria , Geffner Mitchell E. , Jönsson Peter , Monson John P. , Abs Roger , Hána Václav , Höybye Charlotte , Wollmann Hartmut A.
Published: March 2010

Context: Little is known about the impact of childhood-onset GH deficiency (GHD), in particular the duration of GH cessation during the transition phase, on adult phenotype.

Objective: We investigated the association between the manifestations and management of GHD during childhood/adolescence and the clinical features of GHD in adulthood.

Design/Setting/Patients/Intervention: Patients with reconfirmed childhood-onset GHD who resumed GH treatment as adults were identified from two sequential databases (n = 313). The cohort was followed up longitudinally from GH start in childhood to reinitiation of treatment in adulthood and 1 yr beyond. Analyses were performed in the total cohort and in subgroups of patients with idiopathic GHD (IGHD) and non-IGHD. The cohorts were stratified based on duration of GH cessation (short, ≤2 yr; long, >2 yr).

Main Outcome Measures: Regimen of pediatric GH administration, duration of GH interruption, IGF-I sd score, lipid concentrations, and quality of life were measured.

Results: Mean duration of GH interruption was 4.4 yr. IGF-I sd score in adulthood was related to severity of childhood GHD. In non-IGHD patients, a longer duration of GH interruption was associated with a worse lipid profile (P < 0.0001). Non-IGHD patients who gained more height during childhood GH treatment reported better quality of life than those who gained less height (P < 0.05).

Conclusions: Pediatricians should tailor GH treatment, not only for its beneficial effect on growth but also for future health in adulthood. In adults with reconfirmed GHD, particularly those with non-IGHD, early recommencement of GH should be considered.
The oscillation of Notch activation, but not its boundary, is required for somite border formation and rostral-caudal patterning within a somite
Authors: Oginuma Masayuki , Takahashi Yu , Kitajima Satoshi , Kiso Makoto , Kanno Jun , Kimura Akatsuki , Saga Yumiko
Published: March 2010

Notch signaling exerts multiple roles during different steps of mouse somitogenesis. We have previously shown that segmental boundaries are formed at the interface of the Notch activity boundary, suggesting the importance of the Notch on/off state for boundary formation. However, a recent study has shown that mouse embryos expressing Notch-intracellular domain (NICD) throughout the presomitic mesoderm (PSM) can still form more than ten somites, indicating that the NICD on/off state is dispensable for boundary formation. To clarify this discrepancy in our current study, we created a transgenic mouse lacking NICD boundaries in the anterior PSM but retaining Notch signal oscillation in the posterior PSM by manipulating the expression pattern of a Notch modulator, lunatic fringe. In this mouse, clearly segmented somites are continuously generated, indicating that the NICD on/off state is unnecessary for somite boundary formation. Surprisingly, this mouse also showed a normal rostral-caudal compartment within a somite, conferred by a normal Mesp2 expression pattern with a rostral-caudal gradient. To explore the establishment of normal Mesp2 expression, we performed computer simulations, which revealed that oscillating Notch signaling induces not only the periodic activation of Mesp2 but also a rostral-caudal gradient of Mesp2 in the absence of striped Notch activity in the anterior PSM. In conclusion, we propose a novel function of Notch signaling, in which a progressive oscillating wave of Notch activity is translated into the rostral-caudal polarity of a somite by regulating Mesp2 expression in the anterior PSM. This indicates that the initial somite pattern can be defined as a direct output of the segmentation clock.
Limited functions of Hox genes in the larval development of the ascidian Ciona intestinalis
Authors: Ikuta Tetsuro , Satoh Nori , Saiga Hidetoshi
Published: March 2010

In animals, region specific morphological characters along the anteroposterior axis are controlled by a number of developmental genes, including Hox genes encoding homeodomain transcription factors. Although Hox genes have been regarded to play a key role in the evolution of morphological diversity, as well as in the establishment of the body plan, little is known about the function of Hox genes in invertebrates, except for in insects and nematodes. The present study addresses the role of Hox genes in body patterning during the larval development of the ascidian Ciona intestinalis conducting knockdown experiments of the seven Hox genes expressed during embryogenesis. Experimental results have demonstrated that Ci-Hox12 plays an important role in tail development through the maintenance of expression of Ci-Fgf8/17/18 and Ci-Wnt5 in the tail tip epidermis. Additionally, it has been shown that Ci-Hox10 is involved in the development of GABAergic neurons in the dorsal visceral ganglion. Surprisingly, knockdown of Ci-Hox1, Ci-Hox2, Ci-Hox3, Ci-Hox4 and Ci-Hox5 did not give rise to any consistent morphological defects in the larvae. Furthermore, expression of neuronal marker genes was not affected in larvae injected with MOs against Ci-Hox1, Ci-Hox3 or Ci-Hox5. In conclusion, we suggest that the contribution of Hox genes to the larval development of the ascidian C. intestinalis might be limited, despite the fact that Ci-Hox10 and Ci-Hox12 play important roles in neuronal and tail development.
The control of social attention from 1 to 4 months
Authors: Perra Oliver. , Gattis Merideth.
Published: March 2010

The control of social attention during early infancy was investigated in two studies. In both studies, an adult turned towards one of two targets within the infant's immediate visual field. We tested: (a) whether infants were able to follow the direction of the adult's head turn; and (b) whether following a head turn was accompanied by further gaze shifts between experimenter and target. In the first study, 1‐month‐olds did not demonstrate attention following at the group level. In addition, those infants who turned towards the same target remained fixed on it and did not shift attention again. In Study 2, we tested infants longitudinally at 2–4 months. At the group level, infants followed the adult's head turn at 3 and 4 months but not at 2 months. Those infants who turned towards the same target at 3 and 4 months also shifted gaze back and forth between experimenter and target. By 3 months, infants seem able to capitalize on the social environment to disengage and distribute attention more flexibly. The results support the claim that the control of social attention begins in early infancy, and are consistent with the hypothesis that following the attention of other people is dependent on the development of disengagement skills.
Effects of isoquinolonesulfonamides on action potential secretion coupling in pituitary cells
Authors: Popovic Marko A. , Stojilkovic Stanko S. , Gonzalez-Iglesias Arturo E.
Published: March 2010

Background: Pituitary lactotrophs fire action potentials spontaneously and the associated voltage-gated calcium influx is sufficient to maintain high and steady prolactin release. Several intracellular proteins can mediate the action of calcium influx on prolactin secretion, including calmodulin-dependent protein kinases. Here, we studied effects of isoquinolonesulfonamides KN-62 and KN-93, calmodulin-dependent protein kinase inhibitors, and KN-92, an inactive analog, on spontaneous electrical activity, voltage-gated calcium influx, cyclic nucleotide production, and basal prolactin release.

Methods: The effects of these compounds on electrical activity and calcium signaling was measured in single lactotrophs and cyclic nucleotide production and prolactin release were determined in static culture and perifusion experiments of anterior pituitary cells from postpubertal female rats.

Results: KN-62 and KN-93 blocked basal prolactin release in a dose- and time-dependent manner, suggesting that calmodulin-dependent protein kinase could mediate the coupling of electrical activity and secretion. However, a similar effect on basal prolactin release was observed on application of KN-92, which does not inhibit this kinase. KN-93 also inhibited cAMP and cGMP production, but inhibition of prolactin release was independent of the status of cyclic nucleotide production. Single cell measurements revealed abolition of spontaneous and depolarization-induced electrical activity and calcium transients in KN-92/93-treated cells, with a time course comparable to that observed in secretory studies.

Conclusions: The results suggest that caution should be used when interpreting data from studies using isoquinolonesulfonamides to evaluate the role of calmodulin-dependent protein kinases in excitable endocrine cells, because inactive compounds exhibit comparable effects on action potential secretion coupling to those of active compounds.
Monitoring gene expression in muscle tissue of macaca
fascicularis under the influence of testosterone and SARM
Authors: Reiter Martina , Tichopad Ales , Riedmaier Irmgard , Pfaffl Michael W. , Meyer Heinrich H.D.
Published: March 2010

The focus of this study was to evaluate data on the gene expression profiles induced by testosterone and a selective androgen receptor modulator (SARM, TAP Pharmaceutical Products Inc., Lake Forest, IL, USA) in androgen sensitive muscle tissue to obtain a better understanding on the molecular mechanisms of action and to identify biomarkers for SARM function in primate organs. A total of 24 male cyomolgus monkeys were divided into four groups: testosterone group, SARM1 group, SARM10 group, and control group, each consisting of six animals. The testosterone group was treated i.m. with 3.0 mg/kg Testostoviron®-depot-250 (Schering, Berlin, Germany) every 2 weeks, the SARM1 and SARM10 groups with 1 mg/kg or 10 mg/kg SARM LGD2941 daily, and the control group was not treated. Muscle biopsies from musculus
quadriceps and musculus
triceps were collected at three time points: baseline time point before SARM application (control), on day 16, and on day 90 of treatment. A total of 30 candidate genes were selected according to their functionality by screening the actual literature and were composed to the following functional groups: cell cycle, endocrine factors, energy metabolism, muscle fiber proteins, muscle specific transcription factors, protein metabolism, and satellite cell biology. Biomarkers were identified as genes regulated from baseline in any of the three treatment groups at day 16 or day 90 using analysis of variance with baseline defined as the contrast group. Out of 23 tested candidate genes, 3 were significantly regulated in m. quadriceps after 90 days treatment; in m. triceps no significant differences were identified. Cathepsin L, calpain 3, and insulin like growth factor binding protein 3 could be identified as first biomarkers, and first physiological differences between control and treatment samples were determined. Both testosterone and SARM LGD2941 appear to have similar effects after 90 days treatment, and thus a longer-term therapy with these substances can be recommended.
Sex hormone-binding globulin in congenital adrenal hyperplasia
Authors: Zamrazilová Ludmila , Dvořáková Marcela , Lisá Lidka , Stárka Luboslav , Hampl Richard
Published: March 2010

Background: Sex hormone-binding globulin biosynthesis is influenced by three hormonal systems: gonadal, insular and thyroid. Congenital adrenal hyperplasia is characterized by overproduction of adrenal androgens associated with impaired insulin sensitivity, hyperinsulinemia and often also with hypothyroidism. Only scarce data are available concerning congenital adrenal hyperplasia. The objective of this study was to determine the distribution of sex hormone-binding globulin and free testosterone levels in these patients and to what extent these values correlate with actual 17-hydroxyprogesterone and androstenedione levels, which are commonly used for monitoring of treatment effectiveness.

Materials and methods: A total of 300 retrospective laboratory records of 78 males and boys and 456 records of 162 girls and premenopausal women with diagnosis of congenital adrenal hyperplasia under common substitution treatment were evaluated statistically. The data were divided artificially into groups of low, normal and high levels, with respect to physiological concentrations for each sex and age. The percentages of the total in each group were calculated.

Results: Whereas an almost Gaussian distribution occurred for males, the data for females displayed a considerable shift to low sex hormone-binding globulin and accordingly high free testosterone levels. Sex hormone-binding globulin levels did not correlate with 17-hydroxyprogesterone.

Conclusion: Low sex hormone-binding globulin levels in congenital adrenal hyperplasia, at least in females, reflect their involvement in insular and eventually thyroid axes, rather than the effectiveness of substitution.
Sequential transformation of 4-androstenedione into dihydrotestosterone in prostate carcinoma (DU-145) cells indicates that 4-androstenedione and not testosterone is the substrate of 5α-reductase
Authors: Samson Melanie , Labrie Fernand , Luu-The Van
Published: March 2010

Background: Although it is well recognized that 5α-reductases possess higher affinity for 4-androstenedione than testosterone, and the affinity of 4-androstenedione is higher for 5α-reductases than 17β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenases, it is generally believed that dihydrotestosterone is necessarily produced by the transformation of testosterone into dihydrotestosterone, suggesting that the step catalyzed by 17β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase precedes the step catalyzed by 5α-reductase. This interpretation is in contradiction with the enzymatic kinetic law that suggests that the 5α-reduction step that catalyzes the transformation of 4-dione into 5α-androstane-3,17-dione precedes the 17keto-reduction step.

Materials and methods: To verify which of these two pathways is operative, we quantified mRNA expression levels of steroidogenic enzymes in prostate carcinoma DU-145 cells by real-time PCR and determined the metabolites produced after incubation with [14C]4-dione in the presence and absence of a 5α-reductase inhibitor and analyzed the metabolites produced by thin layer chromatography and HPLC.

Results: Real-time PCR analysis strongly suggests that the new type 3 5α-reductase is responsible for 5α-reductase activity in DU-145 cells. Steroid profile analysis shows that in the absence of inhibitor 5α-androstanedione is first produced, followed by the production of androsterone and dihydrotestosterone. The concentration of testosterone was not detectable. In the presence of Finasteride, an inhibitor of 5α-reductase, there was no transformation of 4-androstenedione and also there was no production of testosterone. The present data clearly indicate that the biosynthesis of dihydrotestosterone in DU-145 cells does not require testosterone as intermediate, and the step catalyzed by 5α-reductase precedes the step catalyzed by 17β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase.
Inhibition of aromatase activity in MCF-7aro human breast cancer cells by the natural androgens testosterone and androstenedione
Authors: Chetrite Gérard S. , Pasqualini Jorge R.
Published: March 2010

Background: The human breast contains all the enzymes responsible for local bioformation of estradiol (E2). Two principal pathways are implicated in the last steps of E2 formation: the ‘aromatase’ which transforms androgens into estrogens, and the ‘sulfatase’ which converts estrogen sulfates into active unconjugated estrogens; activities found in both normal and cancerous breast. Aromatase inhibition by anti-aromatase agents is largely used with very positive results in the treatment of breast cancer patients. In this study, the effects of the natural androgens androstenedione and testosterone were explored on aromatase activity in a stable aromatase-expressing estrogen receptor-positive human breast cancer cell line MCF-7aro.

Materials and methods: The cells were incubated with physiological concentrations of [3H]-testosterone (5 nmol/L) alone or in the presence of either testosterone or androstenedione (0.5 and 50 μmol/L) 24 h at 37°C. Cellular radioactivity uptake was determined. [3H]-E2 was characterized by thin-layer chromatography.

Results: The MCF-7aro cells have a very high aromatase activity because conversion of [3H]-testosterone to [3H]-E2 was 3.02±0.17 pmol/mg DNA in non-treated cells. Testosterone, at concentrations of 0.5 and 50 μmol/L, provoked inhibition of E2 formation of 36% and 79%, respectively. The effect of androstenedione at 0.5 and 50 μmol/L was 56% and 76%, respectively.

Conclusion: In breast cancer cells, the natural androgens testosterone and androstenedione, have the capacity to control bioformation of estradiol by blocking aromatase activity. The data can provide important information on the control mechanism of estrogen intratumoral levels and open new possibilities in breast cancer treatment.
Visualization of Stat3 and Stat5 transactivation activity with specific response element dependent reporter constructs integrated into lentiviral gene transfer vectors
Authors: Gäbel Katrin , Bednorz Nadja Lydia , Klemmt Petra , Vafaizadeh Vida , Borghouts Corina , Groner Bernd
Published: March 2010

Background: Signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 and 5 (Stat3 and Stat5) play important roles in cell differentiation, proliferation, apoptosis and inflammation. They are transiently activated by ligand-receptor interactions in normal cells but are often found to be constitutively active in cancer cells. Analysis of their activation pattern is therefore important for the description of developmental processes and the understanding of cellular transformation.

Materials and methods: To visualize Stat3 and Stat5 transactivation activity in different cell types, we designed novel reporter constructs. These constructs comprise Stat3 or Stat5 specific promoter elements and reporter genes encoding β-galactosidase or fluorescent proteins. These constructs were integrated into lentiviral gene transfer vectors facilitating efficient transduction of most cell types.

Results: The lentiviral reporter constructs were used to infect different cell types and their inducibility by activated Stat3 or Stat5 was measured. The Stat3-mCherry reporter was active in transduced tumor cells, which exhibit high levels of phosphorylated Stat3 and it was inducible in HepG2 liver cells by interleukin-6 treatment. The Stat5-LacZ reporter was active in cultured cells upon hormone induction of Stat5 and in primary mammary epithelial cells transplanted into cleared fat pads of mice during late pregnancy.

Conclusion: These novel reporter constructs are valuable tools to investigate and to distinguish between Stat3 and Stat5 activity in primary cells and cancer cells. They will also be useful in the discovery of drugs targeting Stat3 or Stat5. They can also be employed to generate transgenic mice and track Stat activity during development.
Evaluation of Fiber-Reinforced Asphalt Mixtures Using Advanced Material Characterization Tests
Authors: Kaloush Kamil Elias , Biligiri Krishna Prapoorna , Zeiada Waleed Abdelaziz , Rodezno Maria Carolina , Reed Jordan Xavier
Published: March 2010

The objective of this study was to evaluate the material properties of a conventional (control) and fiber-reinforced asphalt mixtures using advanced material characterization tests. The laboratory experimental program included triaxial shear strength, dynamic (complex) modulus, repeated load permanent deformation, fatigue, crack propagation, and indirect tensile strength tests. The data was used to compare the performance of the fiber-modified mixture to the control. The results showed that the fibers improved the mixture’s performance in several unique ways against the anticipated major pavement distresses: Permanent deformation, fatigue cracking, and thermal cracking.
Analytic Network Process-Based Approach to Evaluate the Preferable Bancassurance Alliance Model from Supervisory Authorities’ Perspectives
Authors: Wu Cheng-Ru
Published: March 2010

This study explores the most preferable model of financial alliance between banks and insurance companies from the point of supervisory authorities. As a decision support system, we incorporate the opinions of industry experts and apply the Analytic Network Process (ANP) technique. Based on the evaluations of the expert panel, the financial holding company option was preferred by Taiwan’s Financial Supervisory Commission. The results find the best bancassurance alliance structure is Financial holding company and the order importance of four criteria according to priority are Sufficiency of capital, Risks, Government policies, and Alliance fruitages. This study provides an evaluation criterion for determining the optimal alliance structure for Taiwan’s emerging bancassurance sector, and the proposed evaluation criterion provides high-level management of financial institutions, government supervisors, and academicians with recommendations for future development.
“Don’t eat the incense”: Children’s Participation in Contemporary Pagan Practice
Authors: Kermani Zohreh
Published: March 2010

Based on ethnographic fieldwork with Pagan families around the United States, this article examines the changing spiritual needs of Pagan parents and children as evidenced in the development of child-friendly and child-centered rituals. Pagan parents’ ritual adaptations and innovations provide ways for children to participate in ritual and offer instances of the religious creativity of Pagan families. Examples of child-oriented ritual adaptations are drawn from a private family ritual as well as a large community ritual performed by a SpiralScouts circle. In addition to these adaptations of “traditional” ritual elements and tools, this paper suggests that understandings of “ritual” be expanded—especially when children are involved—to include seemingly mundane everyday activities within the family as well as larger, group ceremonial practices. The emphasis within Pagan families on the performance of ritual activities and spiritual practices in everyday life reflects the importance of considering ritual as only one of the many venues for religious expression among adults and children.
Glory to Dazhboh (Sun-god) or to All Native Gods?
Authors: Lesiv Mariya
Published: March 2010

Contemporary Ukrainian Pagans offer an alternative way of constructing a distinct national identity, based on old Slavic traditions, during times of socio-political turmoil. Despite some unifying characteristics, including nationalist views, there are many groups whose doctrines differ markedly. One of the major polemics is connected with the notions of monotheism versus polytheism as the basis for a contemporary Ukrainian spirituality. The debate between polytheism and monotheism, related to creative interpretations of the largely unknown past and dissimilar visions of the future, forms the main focus of this article. Polytheism and monotheism are often viewed as antagonistic categories. Moreover, some scholars argue against these terms, emphasizing their modern origins and strong political connotation. They are viewed as anachronistic when applied to complex and shifting spiritual practices, especially in ancient contexts. In contrast to this, Ukrainian Paganism shows that these antagonistic models can sometimes coexist, although in debate with each other, in the complex process of identity formation even within the same religious movement. While old Slavs likely did not think about themselves in these terms, their present-day Ukrainian counterparts consciously embrace “monotheism” and “polytheism” as modern political categories. In fact, these categories help Ukrainian Pagans to negotiate (among themselves) the best way to build a “pure” national identity. Monotheistic Pagans associate monotheism with the evolutionist idea of “progress” while polytheists emphasize the “authenticity” of their own worldview. Indigenized in this way, “monotheism” and “polytheism” are valid terms for describing contemporary ideologies.
Critical Readings: African American Girls and Urban Fiction
Authors: Gibson Simone
Published: March 2010

The goal of this writing is to introduce the reader to the urban fiction genre, explore why adolescent African American girls may be engaging with novels from the genre, and how teachers may be able to use texts from the genre to increase literacy skills.

إن هدف هذه الورقة أن يعرّف القارئ على نوع من الأدب وهو الأدب الخيالي المدني وتستكشف سبب المراهقات الإفريقيات قد يهتممن بالروايات من هذا النوع وكيف قد يستطيع المعلمون أن يستخدموا النصوص من هذا النوع لتحسين مهارات معرفة القراءة والكتابة.

本文旨在向读者介绍城市小说这种体裁，探讨为何美国非洲裔青少年女孩会投入阅读这种体裁的小说，以及探讨教师如何可以利用这种体裁的文本来提高学生的读写能力。

Ce texte a pour but de présenter au lecteur la fiction urbaine en tant que genre, d'examiner pourquoi les adolescentes afro‐américaines peuvent s'investir dans les romans à partir de ce genre, et comment les professeurs peuvent utiliser les textes de ce genre pour améliorer les compétences en littératie.

Цель статьи – познакомить читателей с таким жанром литературы, как городская беллетристика, проанализировать, почему девочки‐подростки афро‐американского происхождения увлекаются такими романами и как учителя могут использовать подобные тексты, чтобы совершенствовать навыки грамотности у этих подростков.

La meta de este ensayo es la de hacer conocer al lector el género novelesco urbano, explorar por qué las jóvenes africano americanas podrían estarse identificando con las novelas de dicho género, y cómo los maestros podrían usar dichos textos para mejorar las destrezas de lectura.
Critical Literacy Isn't Just for Books Anymore
Authors: Vasquez Vivian
Published: March 2010

The following material, adapted from the new IRA book Getting Beyond “I Like the Book” (second edition), highlights how podcasting specifically and technology in general can be used as tools for thinking about the world and for learning and communicating.
Effect of material uncertainty on stochastic response of dams
Authors: Haciefendioğlu K.
Published: March 2010

The present research considers the effect of uncertain material parameters on the stochastic dynamic response of an asphaltic lining dam–foundation system subjected to both stationary and non-stationary random excitation. The uncertain material parameters of interest are the shear modulus and mass density, which are modelled using a log-normal distribution. The Monte Carlo simulation method determines the stochastic seismic response of the dam–foundation system to spatially varying ground motion with uncertain material parameters. Consideration of the spatial variability of ground motion incorporates incoherence and wave passage effects from both stationary and non-stationary random excitations. A Heaviside modulating function is used throughout the study for the non-stationary responses. The results obtained indicate that variability of the shear modulus should be included in a stochastic dynamic analysis of an asphaltic lining dam–foundation system, but variability of the mass density can be neglected. Also, from the results, stationarity is a reasonable assumption for asphaltic lining dams in response to typical durations of strong shaking.
Air-blast-loaded, high-strength concrete beams. Part II: Numerical non-linear analysis
Authors: Magnusson J. , Ansell A. , Hansson H.
Published: March 2010

The results from this investigation demonstrate the ability to perform numerical simulations of dynamic structural response of concrete elements subjected to air blast loading. Beams of both high-strength concrete (HSC) and normal-strength concrete (NSC) were studied. Also beams with two concrete layers of different strength were simulated. It is of particular interest to investigate the use of material models for implementation with software for the explicit analysis of non-linear dynamic events. The influences of concrete strength, amounts of reinforcement, the bond between concrete and reinforcement, bi-linear strain softening of concrete, the strain rate dependence of reinforcement and boundary conditions at the supports were studied. The simulations were performed with the text data as reference through comparison between numerical examples and experimental test results. It was possible numerically to analyse the dynamic behaviour of beams tested in situ and to describe the observed failure modes of these beams. The analysis tool will be used for evaluating the dynamic strength of future protective structures of HSC, possibly with parts consisting of NSC elements.
Development of GFRP-reinforced GFRC for thin permanent formwork applications
Authors: Kim G.B. , Pilakoutas K. , Waldron P.
Published: March 2010

A major impediment for the development of precast concrete permanent formwork and other thin structural elements such as cladding is the minimum cover requirement to the reinforcement. For aggressive environments, this can be up to 50 mm, which results in minimum 100 mm thickness units. Currently, glass-fibre-reinforced concrete or cement (GFRC) is used to address that problem in small non-structural elements. However, the structural capacity of GFRC is limited and fibre-reinforced plastic (FRP) reinforcement can be used to structurally reinforce GFRC to enable the development of much larger units. The ‘skin and rib' concept for the design of such units has been developed by the authors and has been used for the design of precast units. The main issues relating to GFRP-reinforced GFRC are bond, anchoring, tension stiffening, deflections and shear capacity of thin panels. This paper presents experimental and analytical work undertaken to address all the above issues. Pull-out tests confirm that the pull-out resistance of FRP is greater in GFRC than in concrete. Flexural capacity and deformations can be predicted provided the tensile properties of the GFRC are determined and modelled correctly. Finally the shear resistance of the elements is examined and design proposals are made. The work demonstrates that it is possible to develop 1 cm thick GFRC permanent formwork for bridge or building applications – spanning unsupported up to 3·85 m and up to 10 m with intermediate supports, thereby providing a durable and economic alternative to metal decks.
Briefing: stakeholder perspectives of buried utility mapping
Authors: Royal A. , Rogers C. , Atkins P. , Brennan M. , Chapman D. , Cohn A. , Lewin P. , Metje N. , Muggleton J. , Pennock S. , Redfern M. , Saul A. , Swingler S.
Published: March 2010

The ‘mapping the underworld’ initiative was established in 2004 to help develop tools to locate, position and record every buried utility without the need for excavation. The ‘mapping the underworld: multi-sensor device’ project received funding from the UK government in 2008. The project commenced in January 2009 and held its launch seminar and workshop in February 2009. The launch event was attended by delegates from a wide cross-section of the utility sector. This paper describes the outcome of the interactive workshops and subsequent discussions with industry partners with the aim of providing a collective stakeholders' view of the challenges of implementing new surveying and mapping technologies and the associated research needs.
Value management for sustainable decision making
Authors: Hayles C. , Graham M. , Fong P. S. W.
Published: March 2010

Industry is now aware of the need for sustainable decision making and is being forced to meet newly imposed targets by legislation. To date, however, there has been no widely accepted methodology that enables stakeholders collectively to balance competing interests. As a proven decision-making framework that can be conducted throughout a project's life cycles, value management holds a strategic position in incorporating sustainability issues into investment decisions. As a process, value management requires key stakeholders to consider all the issues surrounding a project as well as to identify and examine all the engineering options available to them by considering their impact on the triple bottom line plus one, in other words socially, economically, environmentally and politically. However, its potential has not been fully realised by academics and practitioners. Through four case studies this paper demonstrates how value management has been successfully applied to community development projects as a catalyst for embedding a culture of sustainable decision making in both small- and large-scale projects, ranging from physical infrastructure to community capacity building. From the case studies presented it is evident that a value management framework has the potential to be the standard methodology for sustainable decision making.
A practical approach to processing flexible displays
Authors: Souk Jun H. , Lee Woojae
Published: March 2010

Abstract—The materials and fabrication aspects of flexible displays will be reviewed. The fabrication of flexible displays requires the consideration of proper material selection, handling of plastic‐film substrates, and a low‐temperature process for the fabrication of active‐matrix devices on plastic substrate. In addition, for the low‐cost fabrication approach, direct printing of active‐matrix patterning without a photolithography process is also required. Before commercial‐level production of flexible displays is considered, the factors of product reliability and practical value are considered. Samsung LCD Division's approach to the fabrication of flexible displays and future plans to develop a practical method that will lead to the production level of flexible displays will also be described.
Depth image‐based rendering for multiview generation
Authors: Jeong Young Ju , Jung Yong Ju , Park Du‐sik
Published: March 2010

Abstract— Techniques for 3‐D display have evolved from stereoscopic 3‐D systems to multiview 3‐D systems, which provide images corresponding to different viewpoints. Currently, new technology is required for application in multiview display systems that use input‐source formats such as 2‐D images to generate virtual‐view images of multiple viewpoints. Due to the changes in viewpoints, occlusion regions of the original image become disoccluded, resulting in problems related to the restoration of output image information that is not contained in the input image. In this paper, a method for generating multiview images through a two‐step process is proposed: (1) depth‐map refinement and (2) disoccluded‐area estimation and restoration. The first step, depth‐map processing, removes depth‐map noise, compensates for mismatches between RGB and depth, and preserves the boundaries and object shapes. The second step, disoccluded‐area estimation and restoration, predicts the disoccluded area by using disparity and restores information about the area by using information about neighboring frames that are most similar to the occlusion area. Finally, multiview rendering generates virtual‐view images by using a directional rendering algorithm with boundary blending.
Endoparasitos em muriquis-do-norte, Brachyteles hypoxanthus, isolados em pequeno fragmento de Mata Atlântica
Authors: Angonesi Priscila Santos , Almeida-Silva Bárbara , Mendes Sérgio Lucena , Pyrrho Alexandre Santos
Published: March 2010

No abstract
Anthropogenic change and primate predation risk: crested caracaras (Caracara plancus) attempt predation on mantled howler monkeys (Alouatta palliata)
Authors: McKinney Tracie
Published: March 2010

No abstract
Owl monkey vocalizations at the Primate Research Institute, Inuyama
Authors: Kantha Sachi Sri , Koda Hiroki , Suzuki Yuri
Published: March 2010

No abstract
Effect of substrate type on the field performance and chemical composition of highbush blueberry cv.Patriot
Authors: OCHMIAN I. , GRAJKOWSKI J. , SKUPIEN K.
Published: March 2010

The aim of a 3-year study was to compare the effect of substrate type (peat, sawdust and cocoa husk) on the yield, fruit quality, general and phenolic composition, and antioxidant activity of highbush blueberry (Vaccinium corymbosum L.) cultivar Patriot. The largest berries and the highest yield were obtained from bushes grown in sawdust (3.661 kg ha-1). Berries from bushes grown in cocoa husk had the highest content of N (14.25 g kg-1), P (1.17 g kg-1), K (6.51 g kg-1), and Zn (8.78 mg kg-1), as well as P (1.26 g kg-1) and K (6.99 g kg-1) in the leaves. Both the leaves and fruits of plants grown in sawdust had higher Cu concentrations (3.89 and 3.01 mg kg-1). Berries from sawdust-grown bushes had the highest soluble solids (13.1%) and total sugar (10.80 g 100 g-1) content. The fruits obtained from peat-grown bushes exhibited enhanced antioxidant capacity (38.6 ìmol Trolox g-1). However, the highest levels of phenolics were noted in berries produced in the cocoa husk (208.29 mg 100 g-1) and peat-bed system (174.07 mg 100 g-1). Regardless of the type of substrate used, the following phenols were identified (in descending order): anthocyanins>chlorogenic acid>flavonols. Delphinidin-glycosides were the most abundant pigments, and cyanidin, peonidin, petunidin, and malvidin-glycosides were also detected. Total flavonol content (quercetin derivatives and kaempferol 3-rutinoside) was not significantly affected by the type of substrate.;
Effects of birch tar oils on soil organisms and plants
Authors: HAGNER M. , PASANEN T. , LINDQVIST B.
Published: March 2010

The use of birch tar oil (BTO) is a new innovation in plant and animal protection working against various weeds, harmful insects and rodents. Due to its novelty as a biocide/repellent/plant protection product, no comprehensive information on the effects of BTO on non-target soil organisms is available. In this study we examined the impact of BTO on non-target soil organisms (enchytraeids, nematodes and soil microbes) and plants using laboratory toxicity tests and field experiments. In addition, we determined the LC50 value of BTO to the earthworm Aporrectodea caliginosa and the EC50 value of BTO to the offspring production of the collembolan Folsomia candida. The effects of BTO on soil fauna were mostly insignificant. BTO seemed to be detrimental to the growth of plants directly after application, but this effect was short-term; after a period of 2.5 months, the growth of most of the plant species recovered completely from the application. The LC50 for A. caliginosa was 6560 mg BTO kg-1 dry soil and EC50 for juvenile production of F. candida was 5100 mg BTO kg-1 dry soil. The results indicate that the risk caused by BTOs (concentration 500-1360 L ha-1) to the soil environment is insignificant and short-term as compared to the many chemical products applied for similar purposes.;
Continuous Auditing in ERP System Environments: The Current State and Future Directions
Authors: Kuhn John R. , Sutton Steve G.
Published: March 2010

ABSTRACT: Recent research has focused heavily on the practicality and feasibility of alternative architectures for supporting continuous auditing. In this paper, we explore the alternative architectures for continuous auditing that have been proposed in both the research and practice environments. We blend a focus on the practical realities of the current technological options and ERP structures with the emerging theory and research on continuous assurance models. The focus is on identifying the strengths and weaknesses of each architectural form as a basis for forming a research agenda that could allow researchers to contribute to the future evolution of both ERP system designs and auditor implementation strategies. There are substantial implications and insights that should be of interest to both researchers and practitioners interested in exploring continuous audit feasibility, capability, and organizational impact.
Retaining Teachers of Color: A Pressing Problem and a Potential Strategy for “Hard-to-Staff” Schools
Authors: Achinstein Betty , Ogawa Rodney T. , Sexton Dena , Freitas Casia
Published: March 2010

Given calls to diversify the teaching workforce, this review examines research on retention and turnover of teachers of color, focusing on new teachers because they leave at disproportionately high rates. Reviewing 70 studies, the authors found that (a) recent national studies identify turnover rates for teachers of color are now higher than those for White teachers; (b) policy-amenable school-level conditions related to financial, human, social, and cultural capital can affect retention; (c) teachers of color are more likely than Whites to work and remain in “hard-to-staff” urban schools with high proportions of students from low-income and nondominant racial and cultural communities; and (d) factors affecting the retention of teachers of color can contribute to staffing urban schools with quality teachers, including teachers’ humanistic commitments, innovative approaches in the professional preparation of teachers of color, and the presence of multicultural capital in schools.
Patient Factors in the Selection of Operative Versus Nonoperative Treatment for Posterior Tibial Tendon Dysfunction
Authors: O'Connor Kathryn , Baumhauer Judith , Houck Jeff R.
Published: March 2010

Background: The influence of demographic, medical history, and treatment variables on the maintenance of nonoperative care or progression to operative intervention in Posterior Tibial Tendon Dysfuction (PTTD) was explored. This retrospective study compared demographic, medical history and treatment variables between operative and nonoperative care in subjects with PTTD. Materials and Methods: Charts with the ICD-9 codes (726.72, 726.90) and brace distribution records for 2005 and 2006 were used to identify subjects. From these, 166 of 606 charts included documentation of PTTD. Variables were grouped into three categories including demographics (Age, body mass index, gender and working status), medical (stage, symptom duration, pain at initial evaluation, and past treatments) and treatment (initial brace, length of care episode, and brace change). Statistical comparisons between subjects treated nonoperatively and operatively were made. Significant variables were entered into a logistic regression analysis. Accuracy (sensitivity/specificity) was assessed by examining the success of predicting which subjects were treated operatively or nonoperatively. Results: Of the 166 subjects, 125 (75.4%) received nonoperative care and 41 (24.6%) operative care. Nine variables distinguished the operative from the nonoperative group ( p < 0.05): including BMI, work status, stage, symptom duration, prior orthotic use, prior injection, custom brace, brace changes, and length of care episode. The logistic regression model identified BMI, symptom duration, prior cortisone injections, and prior orthotic use as significant and resulted in a specificity of 95.4% and sensitivity of 38.2%. Conclusion: This retrospective analysis provides a patient profile of factors in the success of nonoperative care in PTTD.

Level of Evidence: III, Retrospective Comparative Study
Analysis of Foot Structure in Athletes Sustaining Proximal Fifth Metatarsal Stress Fracture
Authors: Hetsroni Iftach , Nyska Meir , Ben-Sira David , Mann Gideon , Segal Ofer , Maoz Guy , Ayalon Moshe
Published: March 2010

Background: In the past, several studies provided anecdotal descriptions of high-arched feet in individuals sustaining proximal fifth metatarsal stress fractures. This relationship has never been supported by scientific evidence. Our objective was to examine whether athletes who sustained this injury had an exceptional static foot structure or dynamic loading pattern. Materials and Methods: Ten injured professional soccer players who regained full professional activity following a unilateral proximal fifth metatarsal stress fracture and ten control soccer players were examined. Independent variables included static evaluation of foot and arch structure, followed by dynamic plantar foot pressure evaluation. Each variable was compared between injured, contra-lateral uninjured, and control feet. Results: Static measurements of foot and arch structure did not reveal differences among the groups. However, plantar pressure evaluation revealed relative unloading of the fourth metatarsal in injured and uninjured limbs of injured athletes compared with control, while the fifth metatarsal revealed pressure reduction only in the injured limbs of injured athletes. Conclusion: Athletes who sustained proximal fifth metatarsal stress fracture were not characterized by an exceptional static foot structure. Dynamically, lateral metatarsal unloading during stance may either play a role in the pathogenesis of the injury, or alternately represent an adaptive process. Clinical Relevance: Footwear fabrication for previously injured athletes should not categorically address cushioning properties designed for high-arch feet, but rather focus on individual dynamic evaluation of forefoot loading, with less attention applied to static foot and arch characteristics.

Level of Evidence: III, Retrospective Comparative Study