bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Detection of open water dynamics with ENVISAT ASAR in support of land surface modelling at high latitudes
Authors: Bartsch A. , Trofaier A. M. , Hayman G. , Sabel D. , Schlaffer S. , Clark D. B. , Blyth E.
Published: February 2012

Abstract. Wetlands are generally accepted as being the largest but least well quantified single source of methane (CH4). The extent of wetland or inundation is a key factor controlling methane emissions, both in nature and in the parameterisations used in large-scale land surface and climate models. Satellite-derived datasets of wetland extent are available on the global scale, but the resolution is rather coarse (>25 km). The purpose of the present study is to assess the capability of active microwave sensors to derive inundation dynamics for use in land surface and climate models of the boreal and tundra environments. The focus is on synthetic aperture radar (SAR) operating in C-band since, among microwave systems, it has comparably high spatial resolution and data availability, and long-term continuity is expected. C-band data from ENVISAT ASAR (Advanced SAR) operating in wide swath mode (150 m resolution) were investigated and an automated detection procedure for deriving open water fraction has been developed. More than 4000 samples (single acquisitions tiled onto 0.5° grid cells) have been analysed for July and August in 2007 and 2008 for a study region in Western Siberia. Simple classification algorithms were applied and found to be robust when the water surface was smooth. Modification of input parameters results in differences below 1 % open water fraction. The major issue to address was the frequent occurrence of waves due to wind and precipitation, which reduces the separability of the water class from other land cover classes. Statistical measures of the backscatter distribution were applied in order to retrieve suitable classification data. The Pearson correlation between each sample dataset and a location specific representation of the bimodal distribution was used. On average only 40 % of acquisitions allow a separation of the open water class. Although satellite data are available every 2–3 days over the Western Siberian study region, the irregular acquisition intervals and periods of unsuitable weather suggest that an update interval of 10 days is more realistic for this domain. SAR data availability is currently limited. Future satellite missions, however, which aim for operational services (such as Sentinel-1 with its C-band SAR instrument), may provide the basis for inundation monitoring for land surface and climate modelling applications.
Differences between Immigrant and National Students in Motivational Variables and Classroom-Motivational-Climate Perception
Authors: Alonso-Tapia Jesús , Simón Cecilia
Published: February 2012

The objective of this study is to see whether Immigrant (IM) and Spanish (National) students (SP) need different kinds of help from teachers due to differences in motivation, family expectancies and interests and classroom-motivational-climate perception. A sample of Secondary Students −242 Spanish and 243 Immigrants- completed questionnaires assessing goal orientations and expectancies, family attitudes towards academic work, perception of classroom motivational climate and of its effects, satisfaction, disruptive behavior and achievement. ANOVAs showed differences in many of the motivational variables assessed as well as in family attitudes. In most cases, Immigrant students scored lower than Spanish students in the relevant variables. Regression analyses showed that personal and family differences were related to student's satisfaction, achievement and disruptive behavior. Finally, multi-group analysis of classroom-motivational-climate (CMC) showed similarities and differences in the motivational value attributed by IM and SP to each specific teaching pattern that configure the CMC. IM lower self-esteem could explain these results, whose implications for teaching and research are discussed.
An Investigation on the Mediating Role of Coping Strategies on Locus of Control - Wellbeing Relationship
Authors: Thiruchelvi Arunachalam , Supriya Mangatvadakkeveetil V.
Published: February 2012

The relationship among coping strategies, locus of control, and workplace wellbeing is examined. The model hypothesizes that coping strategies mediate the relationship between locus of control and work place well being. To test the model, data was collected from 154 software professionals using separate tools to assess coping strategies, locus of control and work place wellbeing. Model fit for the collected data was examined using structural equation modeling technique with the help of AMOS. Results support the view that coping strategies mediate the relationship between locus of control and work place wellbeing. While the path between locus of control and wellbeing is significant, the path between coping distraction and wellbeing is not significant.
Human Values in the Team Leader Selection Process
Authors: Rovira Núria , Özgen Sibel , Medir Magda , Tous Jordi , Alabart Joan Ramon
Published: February 2012

The selection process of team leaders is fundamental if the effectiveness of teams is to be guaranteed. Human values have proven to be an important factor in the behaviour of individuals and leaders. The aim of this study is twofold. The first is to validate Schwartz's survey of human values. The second is to determine whether there are any relationships between the values held by individuals and their preferred roles in a team. Human values were measured by the items of the Schwartz Value Survey (SVS) and the preferred roles in a team were identified by the Belbin Self Perception Inventory (BSPI). The two questionnaires were answered by two samples of undergraduate students (183 and 177 students, respectively). As far as the first objective is concerned, Smallest Space Analysis (SSA) was performed at the outset to examine how well the two-dimensional circular structure, as postulated by Schwartz, was represented in the study population. Then, the results of this analysis were compared and contrasted with those of two other published studies; one by Schwartz (2006) and one by Ros and Grad (1991). As for the second objective, Pearson correlation coefficients were computed to assess the associations between the ratings on the SVS survey items and the ratings on the eight team roles as measured by the BSPI.
Organizational Identification and Commitment: Correlates of Sense of Belonging and Affective Commitment
Authors: Dávila Mª Celeste , García Gemma Jiménez
Published: February 2012

The general purpose of this work is to analyze the overlap between organizational identification and commitment. Specifically, our study focuses on the analysis of the differences and similarities between sense of belonging (a dimension of organizational identification) and affective commitment (a dimension of organizational commitment). In order to do this, we analyzed their discriminant validity and raised their relationship with variables that previous research had showed like precedent and subsequent variables of them: value congruence, perceived support, organizational citizenship behavior, and intention to continue in the organization. A total of 292 people at one organization completed surveys measuring the variables previously described. The results showed that sense of belonging and affective commitment are different concepts and they have different relationships with relation to precedent and subsequent variables. Affective commitment seems to be more useful than sense of belonging to predict organizational citizenship behavior aimed at the organization and intention to continue. Some practical implications are described.
Batterer Men in Prison and in Court-Referred Treatment Programmes: What is the Difference?
Authors: Fernández-Montalvo Javier , Echauri José A. , Martínez María , Azcárate Juana Mª
Published: February 2012

This paper describes the demographic, gender violence and psychopathological characteristics of 399 men in a specialized treatment programme for gender violence. Furthermore, a comparison of all the variables studied among the subjects referred by the court to the treatment programme (n= 276) and those who were imprisoned (n= 123) was conducted. The results showed the existence of numerous statistically significant differences between groups, primarily in psychopathological variables and in cognitive bias about women and violence use. In general, imprisoned batterers showed more irrational beliefs both about women and about violence as a strategy to cope with everyday difficulties. Moreover, batterers in prison had significantly higher scores on all psychopathological symptoms as assessed by SCL-90-R, as well as in most of STAXI-2 subscales. According to these results, batterers in prison showed a higher severity in variables studied than those who were referred by the court to the treatment programme. Implications of these results for further research and clinical practice are also commented on.
Dimensionality and Transcultural Specificity of the Sexual Attraction Questionnaire (SAQ)
Authors: Fernández Juan , Quiroga María Ángeles , Icaza Vanessa J. , Escorial Sergio
Published: February 2012

Sexual attraction was considered a component of sexual orientation from the beginning of the second half of the 20th century to present times. However, some recent researchers have studied sexual attraction as an independent field measuring it by the Sexual Attraction Questionnaire (SAQ). This study analyzes sexual attraction through the SAQ in 400 university students from a Peruvian catholic university. These participants −191 women and 209 men- show a very diverse curricular background. The following hypotheses were tested: a) the structure of the SAQ, pointing out two concepts: attraction to men and attraction to women; b) the high inverse correlation between these two concepts or factors; c) the specific impact of this context in sexual attraction: higher percentage of attracted by none of the sexes and lower percentage of attracted to the opposite sex, in comparison with other contexts; and d) the Lippa prediction (2006, 2007), regarding a higher polarization of sexual attraction for men than for women. Results support the first three hypotheses. Clarifications are laid down with regard to the fourth one. Discussion focuses on theoretical and applied advantages of using the SAQ as opposed to the frequent use of a single item of sexual attraction for each sex.
Health and Safety at Work in the Transport Industry (TRANS-18): Factorial Structure, Reliability and Validity
Authors: Boada-Grau Joan , Sánchez-García José-Carlos , Prizmic-Kuzmica Aldo-Javier , Vigil-Colet Andreu
Published: February 2012

In this article, we study the psychometric properties of a short scale (TRANS-18) which was designed to detect safe behaviors (personal and vehicle-related) and psychophysiological disorders. 244 drivers participated in the study, including drivers of freight transport vehicles (regular, dangerous and special), cranes, and passenger transport (regular transport and chartered coaches), ambulances and taxis. After carrying out an exploratory factor analysis of the scale, the findings show a structure comprised of three factors related to psychophysiological disorders, and to both personal and vehicle-related safety behaviors. Furthermore, these three factors had adequate reliability and all three also showed validity with regard to burnout, fatigue and job tension. In short, this scale may be ideally suited for adequately identifying the safety behaviors and safety problems of transport drivers. Future research could use the TRANS-18 as a screening tool in combination with other instruments.
DSM-Oriented Scales of the Child Behavior Checklist and Youth Self-Report in Clinically Referred Spanish Children
Authors: Lacalle Montserrat , Ezpeleta Lourdes , Doménech Josep M.
Published: February 2012

The Achenbach System of Empirically Based Assessment (ASEBA) is an example of the efforts to integrate categorical and dimensional assessment methods. The latest editions of the Child Behavior Checklist (CBCL) and the Youth Self-Report (YSR) included the DSM-Oriented Scales, constructed in rational manner based on the items making up these inventories. Objective: To analyze the psychometric properties of the DSM-Oriented Scales of the CBCL and YSR. Method: A clinical sample of 420 children and adolescents (aged 8-17 years) was assessed with the CBCL and YSR, with a structured diagnostic interview and with measures of functional impairment to study the reliability and validity of the DSM-Oriented Scales. Results: Internal consistency ranged from moderate to good for all the scales except the DSM-Anxiety Problems Scale. Agreement between parents and children ranged between moderate and low values. Kappa coefficients showed moderate agreement in the different symptoms. The DSM-Oriented Scales presented acceptable diagnostic power for DSM-IV disorders and a significant relationship with measures of functional impairment. Conclusion: The DSM-Oriented Scales constitute a useful approach from the dimensional model to the DSM-IV disorders in Spanish clinical population.
Validity Evidence based on Internal Structure of Scores on the Spanish Version of the Self-Description Questionnaire-II
Authors: Ingles Cándido J. , Torregrosa María S. , Hidalgo María D. , Nuñez Jose C. , Castejón Juan L. , García-Fernández Jose M. , Valle Antonio
Published: February 2012

The aim of this study was to analyze the reliability and validity evidence of scores on the Spanish version of Self-Description Questionnaire II (SDQ-II). The instrument was administered in a sample of 2022 Spanish students (51.1% boys) from grades 7 to 10. Confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) was used to examine validity evidence based on internal structure drawn from the scores on the SDQ-II. CFA replicated the correlated 11 first-order factor structure. Furthermore, hierarchical confirmatory factor analysis (HCFA) was used to examine the hierarchical ordering of self-concept, as measured by scores on the Spanish version of the SDQ-II. Although a series of HCFA models were tested to assess academic and non-academic components organization, support for those hierarchical models was weaker than for the correlated 11 first-order factor structure. Results also indicated that scores on the Spanish version of the SDQ-II had internal consistency and test-retest reliability estimates within an acceptable range.
The Intracavitary ECG Method for Positioning the Tip of Central Venous Catheters: Results of an Italian Multicenter Study
Authors: Pittiruti Mauro , Bertollo Daniele , Briglia Ermanno , Buononato Massimo , Capozzoli Giuseppe , De Simone Luigi , La Greca Antonio , Pelagatti Cecilia , Sette Pier Sandro
Published: February 2012

Purpose

The aim of this multicenter study was to assess the feasibility, safety, and accuracy of the intracavitary ECG method for real-time positioning of the tip of different types of central venous catheters.

Methods

A total of 1444 catheter insertions in adult patients were studied in eight Italian centers (539 ports, 245 PICCs, 325 tunneled CVCs, 335 non-tunneled CVCs). Patients with no visible P wave at the standard baseline ECG were excluded. Depending on the type of catheter and its purpose, the target was to position the tip either (a) at the cavo-atrial junction, or (b) in the lower third of the superior vena cava, or (c) in the upper part of the atrium. The final position was verified by a post-procedural chest x-ray.

Results

The method was feasible in 99.3% of all cases. There were no complications potentially related to the method itself. At the final x-ray control, 83% of all tips were positioned exactly at the target; 12.4% were positioned within 1–2 cm from the target, but still in a correct central position; only 3.8% were malpositioned. The mismatch between intra-procedural ECG method and post-procedural x-ray was significantly lower when the x-ray was taken in supine position.

Conclusions

Our multicenter study confirms that the intracavitary ECG method for real time verification of tip position is accurate, safe, feasible in all adult patients and applicable to any type of short-term or long-term central venous access device.
Circumcision in Nesbit Corporoplasty: A Mandatory Time? Our Experience on 158 Patients
Authors: Pavone Carlo , Usala Daniela Abbadessa Manuela , Mangiapane Grazia , Noto Marcello , Scaduto Giovanna , Passalacqua Dario
Published: February 2012

Introduction

The Nesbit procedure is the most common surgical technique to correct congenital or acquired penile curvature. It is a common opinion that this surgical procedure has to be completed with a circumcision to prevent foreskin necrosis or phimosis. According to our experience we believe that some procedural “tricks” could strongly reduce that mechanical and ischemic trauma on the foreskin responsible for these complications.

Materials and Methods

From 1988 to 2010 we selected 158 patients treated with Nesbit's corporoplasty. The procedure was recommended to patients who presented a penile curvature wider than 30° and reporting however some difficulty or pain at coitus, or to patients who complained about aesthetical problems (123 patients presented a La Peyronie disease and 35 presented a congenital curvature).

Results

Eleven patients underwent circumcision during surgery because of a pre-operative phimosis, or according to their own desire. Among the patients who did not undergo circumcision (147), paraphimosis was present in 3 patients. We reported only one case of curvature recurrence in a patient who had a sexual intercourse the day after surgery. We also had one case of hourglass effect in a congenital curvature.

Discussion

We believe that some tricks during Nesbit surgical procedure could prevent tissue and vascular trauma that give rise to tissue retraction, and consequently to phimosis and foreskin necrosis: a coronal incision to 0.5-1cm from the gland line would allow to let intact an adequate amount of reflection of skin (prepuce) bound of preputial skin reflection, maintaining good vascularity. The careful degloving with preparatory isolation of the dissection plan between dartos and Buck's fascia, can reduce vascular trauma of the fascia, minimizing bleeding and ensuring tissue vitality. Moreover, execution of only two hydraulics erections, after degloving and after correction, causes a minimal tissue stress.

Conclusions

Circumcision must not be considered a mandatory time in Nesbit procedure: on the contrary, mandatory is the respect of the anatomical structures surgically attacked to avoid preputial resection.
Glioblastoma Multiforme: Novel Therapeutic Approaches
Authors: Fialho Arsenio M. , Salunkhe Prabhakar , Manna Sunil , Mahali Sidharth , Chakrabarty Ananda M.
Published: February 2012

The current therapy for glioblastoma multiforme involves total surgical resection followed by combination of radiation therapy and temozolomide. Unfortunately, the efficacy for such current therapy is limited, and newer approaches are sorely needed to treat this deadly disease. We have recently described the isolation of bacterial proteins and peptides with anticancer activity. In phase I human clinical trials, one such peptide, p28, derived from a bacterial protein azurin, showed partial and complete regression of tumors in several patients among 15 advanced-stage cancer patients with refractory metastatic tumors where the tumors were no longer responsive to current conventional drugs. An azurin-like protein called Laz derived from Neisseria meningitides demonstrates efficient entry and high cytotoxicity towards glioblastoma cells. Laz differs from azurin in having an additional 39-amino-acid peptide called an H.8 epitope, which allows entry and high cytotoxicity towards glioblastoma cells. Since p28 has been shown to have very little toxicity and high anti-tumor activity in advanced-stage cancer patients, it will be worthwhile to explore the use of H.8-p28, H.8-azurin, and Laz in toxicity studies and glioblastoma therapy in preclinical and human clinical trials.
The Epidemic of Corrosion, Part 2: The Importance of Communication
Authors: Baird Gregory M.
Published: February 2012

In the water and wastewater utility industry, corrosion is driving up utility operating, maintenance, and capital costs and, in some cases, degrading drinking water quality. “Part 1: Examining Pipe Life” (December 2011) discussed the widespread nature of corrosion, the different types of corrosion, and the required treatments as part of a corrosion control program. This article looks at some of the political aspects associated with corrosion and pipe repair, replacement, and rehabilitation.
Reflections of a Former Young Professional
Authors: Nattress Joe
Published: February 2012

Each day I see the signs of growing older, whether it is the gray in my goatee, the waistline that is slowly expanding, or my daughter growing up before my eyes. I'm not such a “young professional” anymore, but when I reflect on my journey, many times it brings me back to one of the major events in my life ‐ my introduction to AWWA.
Reflecting on PEMDAS
Authors: Jeon Kyungsoon
Published: February 2012

Forgo rule-driven instruction. Use these helpful tips to teach the order of operations.
One‐Step Formulation of Protein Microparticles with Tailored Properties: Hard Templating at Soft Conditions
Authors: Volodkin Dmitry V. , Schmidt Stephan , Fernandes Paulo , Larionova Natalia I. , Sukhorukov Gleb B. , Duschl Claus , Möhwald Helmuth , von Klitzing Regine
Published: February 2012

Formulation of therapeutic proteins into particulate forms is a main strategy for site‐specific and prolonged protein delivery as well as for protection against degradation. Precise control over protein particle size, dispersity, purity, as well as mild preparation conditions and minimal processing steps are highly desirable. It is, however, hard to fit all these criteria with conventional preparation techniques. Here a one‐step hard‐templating synthesis of microparticles composed of functional, non‐denatured protein is reported. The method is based on filling porous CaCO3 microtemplates with the protein near to its isoelectric point (pI) followed by pH‐ or EDTA‐mediated dissolution of the tempplates. In principle, a wide variety of proteins can be converted into microparticles using this approach. The main requirement is an overlap of the protein insolubility and a template solubility for a certain parameter (here pH or EDTA). Here the formulation of insulin particles is studied in detail and it is shown that particles consisting of high molecular weight protein (catalase) can also be prepared. In this context, the synthesis of CaCO3 templates with controlled size, the mechanism of the protein microparticle formation and mechanical properties of the microparticles are discussed. For the first time, the fabrication of mesoporous monodispersed CaCO3 microtemplates with identical porocity but tuned diameter from 3 to 20 μm is demonstrated. The protein particle diameter can be adjusted by choosing the appropriate template size that is critical for successful pulmonary delivery of insulin. As a first step towards insulin delivery, the in vitro release of insulin at physiological conditions is studied.
Adolescents and young adults with acute lymphoblastic leukemia have a better outcome when treated with pediatric‐inspired regimens: Systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Ram Ron , Wolach Ofir , Vidal Liat , Gafter‐Gvili Anat , Shpilberg Ofer , Raanani Pia
Published: February 2012

Survival of adults with acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) is inferior to that of pediatric patients. Strategies to improve the outcome of adult population are warranted. This study aims to evaluate the efficacy and safety of pediatric‐inspired regimens given to adolescents and young adults (AYA), usually defined as 16–39 years, with ALL. Systematic review and meta‐analysis of comparative trials of AYA patients with ALL given induction chemotherapy with either pediatric‐inspired regimens or conventional‐adult chemotherapy was conducted. Relative risks (RR) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were estimated and pooled. Our search yielded 11 trials, including 2,489 patients. AYA patients given pediatric‐inspired regimens had a statistically significant lower all cause mortality rate at 3 years (RR 0.58; 95% CI 0.51–0.67). Complete remission rate after induction chemotherapy and event free survival were superior in the pediatric‐inspired regimens arm (RR 1.05; 95% CI 1.01–1.10 and RR 1.66; 95% CI 1.39–1.99, respectively). Relapse rate was also lower in patients given pediatric‐inspired regimens (RR 0.51; 95% CI 0.39–0.66) with comparable nonrelapse mortality between the two groups (RR 0.53, 95% CI 0.19–1.48). Pediatric‐inspired regimens are superior to conventional‐adult chemotherapy in AYA ALL patients. Further randomized controlled studies to investigate this approach in adult ALL patients are warranted. Am. J. Hematol. 87:472–478, 2012. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Donepezil for dementia with Lewy bodies: A randomized, placebo‐controlled trial
Authors: Mori Etsuro , Ikeda Manabu , Kosaka Kenji ,   on behalf of the Donepezil‐DLB Study Investigators
Published: February 2012

Objective:

Because cholinergic deficits are prominent in dementia with Lewy bodies (DLB), we investigated the effects of a cholinesterase inhibitor, donepezil, in such patients in a randomized, double‐blind, placebo‐controlled exploratory phase 2 trial.

Methods:

One‐hundred forty patients with DLB, recruited from 48 specialty centers in Japan, were randomly assigned to receive placebo or 3, 5, or 10mg of donepezil hydrochloride daily for 12 weeks (n = 35, 35, 33, and 37, respectively). Effects on cognitive function were assessed using the Mini‐Mental State Examination (MMSE) and several domain‐specific neuropsychological tests. Changes in behavior were evaluated using the Neuropsychiatric Inventory, caregiver burden using the Zarit Caregiver Burden Interview, and global function using the Clinician's Interview‐Based Impression of Change‐plus Caregiver Input (CIBIC‐plus). Safety measures included the Unified Parkinson's Disease Rating Scale part III.

Results:

Donepezil at 5 and 10mg/day was significantly superior to placebo on both the MMSE (5mg: mean difference, 3.8; 95% confidence interval [CI], 2.3–5.3; p < 0.001; 10 mg: mean difference, 2.4; 95% CI, 0.9–3.9; p = 0.001) and CIBIC‐plus (p < 0.001 for each); 3mg/day was significantly superior to placebo on CIBIC‐plus (p < 0.001), but not on the MMSE (p = 0.017). Significant improvements were found also in behavioral measures (p < 0.001) at 5 and 10mg/day and caregiver burden (p = 0.004) at 10 mg/day. The safety results were consistent with the known profile of donepezil and similar among groups.

Interpretation:

Donepezil at 5 and 10mg/day produces significant cognitive, behavioral, and global improvements that last at least 12 weeks in DLB patients, reducing caregiver burden at the highest dose. Donepezil is safe and well tolerated. ANN NEUROL 2012;72:41–52
AgOTf‐catalyzed transesterification of β‐keto esters
Authors: Das Rima , Chakraborty Debashis
Published: February 2012

AgOTf proved to be an effective catalyst for the transesterification of β‐keto esters with primary, secondary and tertiary alcohols. The products were obtained in high yield within a reasonable reaction time period. The kinetics of the transesterification reaction were also studied and the reaction was found to follow second‐order kinetics. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Ermittlung der vorhandenen Spannkraft in 50 Jahre alten Brückenträgern und Vergleich der Verluste nach EC2
Authors: Schweighofer Anton , Vill Markus , Kollegger Johann
Published: February 2012

Im Zuge des Bauvorhabens Hauptbahnhof Wien konnten Untersuchungen an 50 Jahre alten Spannbetonbrückenträgern durchgeführt werden. Die Untersuchungen gliederten sich in zwei Teilbereiche. Der erste Bereich umfasste Großversuche zur Beurteilung des Schubtragverhaltens. Diese wurden in [1] ausführlich beschrieben. Vergleichbare Untersuchungen sind unter anderem in [2] zu finden. Der vorliegende Beitrag stellt den zweiten Teil der Untersuchungen dar und befasst sich mit der Ermittlung der vorhandenen Vorspannkraft nach einer Nutzungsdauer von 50 Jahren. Des Weiteren wird ein Vergleich zu den rechnerisch ermittelten Spannkraftverlusten nach EC2 sowie der Einfluss der unterschiedlichen Randbedingungen auf die Ergebnisse gezeigt.

Remaining prestressing force of 50 year old bridge girders and prestressing losses according to EC2

In the course of the construction project Central Railway Station Vienna a research project on 50 year old prestressed bridge girders was carried out. The research project was subdivided into two parts. The first part included ultimate shear load tests of the girders. These tests were described in [1], comparable tests see [2]. This article describes the second part of the analysis and deals with the measurements of the remaining prestressing forces after a service life of 50 years. Furthermore, a comparison of the measured prestressing losses with the calculated prestressing losses according to EC2 and the influence of different boundary conditions is shown.
Großversuche an Spannbetonbrückenträgern zur Beurteilung des Schubtragverhaltens
Authors: Vill Markus , Schweighofer Anton , Kollegger Johann
Published: February 2012

Der Brückenbestand im Straßen‐ und Eisenbahnnetz beinhaltet eine Vielzahl an Bauwerken aus Stahlbeton‐ und Spannbeton, die ab Beginn der 1950er Jahre bis Ende der 1970er Jahre errichtet wurden. Diese Tragwerke werden in den nächsten Jahrzehnten zunehmender Belastung durch das ansteigende Verkehrsaufkommen ausgesetzt. In diesem Zusammenhang muss die Fragestellung nach einer ausreichenden Tragfähigkeit und Zuverlässigkeit für Brückenbauwerke beantwortet werden, die jedoch in vielen Fällen gemäß dem heutigen Normenstand nicht positiv bewertet werden kann. Ein besonderes Problem ergibt sich im Betonbau beim Nachweis der Schubtragfähigkeit, zumal früher andere Bemessungskonzepte als heute Grundlage für den Brückenentwurf waren.

In dem Zusammenhang wurden drei Versuche zur Ermittlung der Schubtragfähigkeit an Spannbetonbrückenträgern im Maßstab 1:1 durchgeführt, wobei die Träger bis zum Versagen belastet wurden. Die Versuche ergaben hohe Tragreserven gegenüber den rechnerischen Tragfähigkeiten gemäß Eurocode 2. Der vorliegende Beitrag beinhaltet eine Beschreibung der Versuche sowie einen Vergleich der Ergebnisse mit den Bemessungsansätzen gemäß Eurocode.

Full scale tests on prestressed concrete bridges concerning the shear load bearing capacity

The current bridge stock of road and railway bridges consists of many bridges, which were built between the 1950s and the end of 1970s. Many of these structures must carry the increasing life loads within the next years at a high level of reliability. Therefore, the question arises whether sufficient load‐carrying‐capacity (according to the state of the art) can still be ensured or not. Especially the structural analysis of the shear‐load‐capacity of concrete structures has been changed over the last 50 years. In many cases the verification of shear load bearing capacity according to Eurocode 2 cannot be done.

In the course of the destruction of an underground railway station the ÖBB Bridge Department and the Institute for Structural Engineering at the Vienna University of Technology were given the opportunity to carry out full scale tests concerning the shear load carrying capacity on three bridge girders. The load tests showed big deflections, significant crack widths and a ductile behavior of the T‐beams with a high factor of global safety.

The paper includes a description of the bridge structure, the results of the tests, and a comparison of the experimental results with the shear carrying capacity according to Eurocode.
False‐Evidence Ploys and Interrogations: Mock Jurors' Perceptions of False‐Evidence Ploy Type, Deception, Coercion, and Justification
Authors: Forrest Krista D. , Woody William Douglas , Brady Sara E. , Batterman Keller C. , Stastny Bradley J. , Bruns Jennifer A.
Published: February 2012

We studied mock jurors' evaluations of police false‐evidence ploys across two false‐evidence ploy information conditions (true or false confession). Study 1 participants evaluated lists of demeanor, testimonial, and scientific ploys and rated testimonial false‐evidence ploys as more coercive than demeanor false‐evidence ploys. Participants in the false‐confession condition rated false‐evidence ploys as more deceptive than did participants in the true‐confession condition. Study 2 participants evaluated false‐evidence ploy types within interrogation transcripts. Participants rated testimonial false‐evidence ploys as more deceptive and coercive than demeanor false‐evidence ploys; participants in the true‐confession condition rated false‐evidence ploys as more justified. Across studies, participants reading realistic transcripts rated false‐evidence ploys as more deceptive and coercive. We discuss implications for scholars, attorneys, and interrogators. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Triptolide inhibits colon cancer cell proliferation and induces cleavage and translocation of 14‐3‐3 epsilon
Authors: Liu Yawei , Song Fangli , Wu William K. K. , He Minyi , Zhao Liang , Sun Xuegang , Li Hui , Jiang Yong , Yang Yungao , Peng Kang
Published: February 2012

Triptolide is a diterpenoid triepoxide derived from the traditional Chinese medical herb Tripterygium wilfordii. In the present study, we demonstrated that this phytochemical attenuated colon cancer growth in vitro and in vivo. Using a proteomic approach, we found that 14‐3‐3 epsilon, a cell cycle‐ and apoptosis‐related protein, was altered in colon cancer cells treated with triptolide. In this regard, triptolide induced cleavage and perinuclear translocation of 14‐3‐3 epsilon. Taken together, our findings suggest that triptolide may merit investigation as a potential therapeutic agent for colon cancer, and its anticancer action may be associated with alteration of 14‐3‐3 epsilon. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Time sequence of the intensification of the liver glucose production induced by high‐fat diet in mice
Authors: Obici Simoni , Tavoni Thauany Martins , Barrena Helenton C. , Curi Rui , Bazotte Roberto B.
Published: February 2012

It is well established that the development of insulin resistance shows a temporal sequence in different organs and tissues. Moreover, considering that the main aspect of insulin resistance in liver is a process of glucose overproduction from gluconeogenesis, we investigated if this metabolic change also shows temporal sequence. For this purpose, a well‐established experimental model of insulin resistance induced by high‐fat diet (HFD) was used. The mice received HFD (HFD group) or standard diet (COG group) for 1, 7, 14 or 56 days. The HFD group showed increased (P < 0.05 versus COG) epididymal, retroperitoneal and inguinal fat weight from days 1 to 56. In agreement with these results, the HFD group also showed higher body weight (P < 0.05 versus COG) from days 7 to 56. Moreover, the changes induced by HFD on liver gluconeogenesis were progressive because the increment (P < 0.05 versus COG) in glucose production from l‐lactate, glycerol, l‐alanine and l‐glutamine occurred 7, 14, 56 and 56 days after the introduction of the HFD schedule, respectively. Furthermore, glycaemia and cholesterolemia increased (P < 0.05 versus COG) 14 days after starting the HFD schedule. Taken together, the results suggest that the intensification of liver gluconeogenesis induced by an HFD is not a synchronous ‘all‐or‐nothing process’ but is specific for each gluconeogenic substrate and is integrated in a temporal manner with the progressive augmentation of fasting glycaemia. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
In vivo high‐resolution 3D Overhauser‐enhanced MRI in mice at 0.2 T
Authors: Massot Philippe , Parzy Elodie , Pourtau Line , Mellet Philippe , Madelin Guillaume , Marque Sylvain , Franconi Jean‐Michel , Thiaudiere Eric
Published: February 2012

Overhauser‐enhanced MRI (OMRI) offers the potentiality of detecting low‐concentrated species generated by specific biological processes. However molecular imaging applications of OMRI need significant improvement in spatial localization. Here it is shown that 3D‐OMRI of a free radical injected in tumor‐bearing mice can be performed at high anatomical resolution at a constant field. A 30 mm cavity operating at 5.43 GHz was inserted in a C‐shaped magnet for proton MRI at 0.194 T. Nude mice with or without brain‐implanted C6 rat glioma were positioned in the cavity and injected with TOPCA (1‐oxyl‐2,2,5,5‐tetramethyl‐2,5‐dihydro‐1H‐pyrrole‐3‐carboxylic acid). OMRI was performed in 3D within several minutes in the brain region without high overheating of the animals. Voxel size was 0.5 × 0.5 × 1 mm3, providing good delineation of brain regions. Signal amplifications ranged from 2 in tumors to 10 in vessels several minutes after TOPCA injection. Time‐course of signal enhancement could be measured by 2D OMRI at 15 s time intervals in a localized thin slice. The method opens the way for molecular imaging of biological activities able to generate OMRI‐visible free radicals. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Assessment of real‐time myocardial uptake and enzymatic conversion of hyperpolarized [1‐13C]pyruvate in pigs using slice selective magnetic resonance spectroscopy
Authors: Menichetti Luca , Frijia Francesca , Flori Alessandra , Wiesinger Florian , Lionetti Vincenzo , Giovannetti Giulio , Aquaro Giovanni Donato , Recchia Fabio A. , Ardenkjaer‐Larsen Jan Henrik , Santarelli Maria Filomena , Lombardi Massimo
Published: February 2012

Hyperpolarization of 13C‐labeled energy substrates enables the noninvasive detection and mapping of metabolic activity, in vivo, with magnetic resonance spectroscopy (MRS). Therefore, hyperpolarization and 13C MRS can potentially become a powerful tool to study the physiology of organs such as the heart, through the quantification of kinetic patterns under both normal and pathological conditions. In this study we assessed myocardial uptake and metabolism of hyperpolarized [1‐13 C]pyruvate in anesthetized pigs. Pyruvate metabolism was studied at baseline and during dobutamine‐induced stimulation. We applied a numerical approach for spectral analysis and kinetic fitting (LSFIT/KIMOfit), making a comparison with a well‐known jMRUI/AMARES analysis and γ‐variate function, and we estimated the apparent conversion rate of hyperpolarized [1‐13 C]pyruvate into its downstream metabolites [1‐13C]lactate, [1‐13C]alanine and [13C]bicarbonate in a 3 T MR scanner. We detected an increase in the apparent kinetic constants (kPX) for bicarbonate and lactate of two‐fold during dobutamine infusion. These data correlate with the double product (rate‐pressure product), an indirect parameter of cardiac oxygen consumption: we observed an increase in value by 46 ± 11% during inotropic stress. The proposed approach might be applied to future studies in models of cardiac disease and/or for the assessment of the pharmacokinetic properties of suitable 13C‐enriched tracers for MRS. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Connexin 57 is expressed by the axon terminal network of B‐type horizontal cells in the rabbit retina
Authors: Pan Feng , Keung Joyce , Kim In‐Beom , Snuggs Mark B. , Mills Stephen L. , O'Brien John , Massey Stephen C.
Published: February 2012

In the rabbit retina there are two types of horizontal cell (HC). A‐type HCs (AHC) are axonless and extensively coupled via connexin (Cx)50 gap junctions. The B‐type HC (BHC) is axon‐bearing; the somatic dendrites form a second network coupled by gap junctions while the axon terminals (ATs) form a third independent network in the outer plexiform layer (OPL). The mouse retina has only one type of HC, which is morphologically similar to the B‐type HC of the rabbit. Previous work suggested that mouse HCs express Cx57 (Hombach et al. [2004] Eur J Neurosci 19:2633–2640). Therefore, we cloned rabbit Cx57 and raised an antibody to determine the distribution of Cx57 gap junctions among rabbit HCs. Dye injection methods were used to obtain detailed fills for all three HC networks for analysis by confocal microscopy. We found that Cx57 was associated with the B‐type AT plexus. Cx57 plaques were anticorrelated with the B‐type somatic dendrites and the A‐type HC network. Furthermore, there was no colocalization between Cx50 and Cx57. We conclude that in the rabbit retina, Cx57 is only found on BHC‐AT processes. Thus, in species where there are two types of HC, different connexins are expressed. The absence of Cx57 labeling in the somatic dendrites of B‐type HCs suggests the possibility of an additional unidentified HC connexin in the rabbit. J. Comp. Neurol. 520:2256–2274, 2012. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Astrocytes in the rat medial amygdala are responsive to adult androgens
Authors: Johnson Ryan T. , Schneider Amanda , DonCarlos Lydia L. , Breedlove S. Marc , Jordan Cynthia L.
Published: February 2012

The posterodorsal medial amygdala (MePD) exhibits numerous sex differences including differences in volume and in the number and morphology of neurons and astroctyes. In adulthood, gonadal hormones, including both androgens and estrogens, have been shown to play a role in maintaining the masculine character of many of these sex differences, but whether adult gonadal hormones maintain the increased number and complexity of astrocytes in the male MePD was unknown. To answer this question we examined astrocytes in the MePD of male and female Long Evans rats that were gonadectomized as adults and treated for 30 days with either testosterone or a control treatment. At the end of treatment brains were collected and immunostained for glial fibrillary acidic protein. Stereological analysis revealed that adult androgen levels influenced the number and complexity of astrocytes in the MePD of both sexes, but the specific effects of androgens were different in males and females. However, sex differences in the number and complexity of adult astrocytes persisted even in the absence of gonadal hormones in adulthood, suggesting that androgens also act earlier in life to determine these adult sex differences. Using immunofluorescence and confocal microscopy, we found robust androgen receptor immunostaining in a subpopulation of MePD astrocytes, suggesting that testosterone may act directly on MePD astrocytes to influence their structure and function. J. Comp. Neurol. 520:2531–2544, 2012. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Morphologic evidence for spatially clustered spines in apical dendrites of monkey neocortical pyramidal cells
Authors: Yadav Aniruddha , Gao Yuan Z. , Rodriguez Alfredo , Dickstein Dara L. , Wearne Susan L. , Luebke Jennifer I. , Hof Patrick R. , Weaver Christina M.
Published: February 2012

The general organization of neocortical connectivity in rhesus monkey is relatively well understood. However, mounting evidence points to an organizing principle that involves clustered synapses at the level of individual dendrites. Several synaptic plasticity studies have reported cooperative interaction between neighboring synapses on a given dendritic branch, which may potentially induce synapse clusters. Additionally, theoretical models have predicted that such cooperativity is advantageous, in that it greatly enhances a neuron's computational repertoire. However, largely because of the lack of sufficient morphologic data, the existence of clustered synapses in neurons on a global scale has never been established. The majority of excitatory synapses are found within dendritic spines. In this study, we demonstrate that spine clusters do exist on pyramidal neurons by analyzing the three‐dimensional locations of ∼40,000 spines on 280 apical dendritic branches in layer III of the rhesus monkey prefrontal cortex. By using clustering algorithms and Monte Carlo simulations, we quantify the probability that the observed extent of clustering does not occur randomly. This provides a measure that tests for spine clustering on a global scale, whenever high‐resolution morphologic data are available. Here we demonstrate that spine clusters occur significantly more frequently than expected by pure chance and that spine clustering is concentrated in apical terminal branches. These findings indicate that spine clustering is driven by systematic biological processes. We also found that mushroom‐shaped and stubby spines are predominant in clusters on dendritic segments that display prolific clustering, independently supporting a causal link between spine morphology and synaptic clustering. J. Comp. Neurol. 520:2888–2902, 2012. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals Inc.
Synthetic, Structural, and Catalytic Studies of Well‐Defined Allyl 1,2,3‐Triazol‐5‐ylidene (tzNHC) Palladium Complexes
Authors: Terashima Takahiro , Inomata Sayuri , Ogata Kenichi , Fukuzawa Shin‐ichi
Published: February 2012

A series of allyl 1,2,3‐triazol‐5‐ylidene (tzNHC) palladium complexes was prepared, and the structures of the complexes were fully characterized by NMR and X‐ray diffraction analyses. The donor properties of these ligands were evaluated by studying the vibrational spectra of their carbonyliridium complexes and their X‐ray photoelectron spectra. These evaluations showed that the structures of thetzNHC palladium complexes are almost identical to those of the corresponding imidazole carbene palladium complexes, and that thetzNHC ligands have stronger donor properties than the imidazole carbene ligands. The relationship between catalytic activity and structure was examined by carrying out a room‐temperature Suzuki–Miyaura coupling reaction, and the cinnamylpalladium complex bearing 1,4‐bis(2,6‐diisopropylphenyl)‐3‐methyl‐1,2,3‐triazol‐5‐ylidene (TPr) was found to be the most active catalyst. (cinnamyl)(TPr)PdCl showed high activity in the room‐temperature reaction performed with aryl chlorides regardless of the electronic and steric properties of the substituents, and was effective in reactions with sterically crowded arylboronic acids.
Effect of freezing on quality of sea bass and gilthead sea bream
Authors: Nasopoulou Constantina , Demopoulos Constantinos A. , Zabetakis Ioannis
Published: February 2012

Freezing is an efficient method of fish preservation. The aim of the present work was to examine the impact of freezing in fatty acid composition and in the in vitro inhibitory activity of sea bass (Dicentrarchus labrax) and gilthead sea bream (Sparus aurata) fillet lipids against platelet activating factor (PAF). The Bligh and Dyer extraction method and the counter‐current distribution method were used to obtain total, polar and neutral lipids. The fatty acid analysis conducted using the internal standard method and the biological assay on washed rabbit platelets took place calculating the in vitro inhibitory activity of fish lipids against 2.5 × 10−11 M of PAF. No statistical changes (p<0.05) occurred in fatty acid content of fresh and thawed gilthead sea bream, while fatty acid amount in thawed sea bass was significantly higher (p<0.05) compared to fresh fish. Total lipids of both thawed fish species exhibited stronger anti‐thrombotic activity compared to fresh fish. Freezing preserved fish quality and reinforced the anti‐thrombotic properties of fish oils, since even after 6 months of freezing, fish oils preserve their nutritional value in terms of protecting against cardiovascular diseases.

Practical applications: Fish fillets contain high amount of unsaturated lipids that may easily undergo lipid oxidation. Freezing and frozen storage prevent such oxidative changes so fish quality is retained. Fatty acids and PAF‐antagonists in fish are of major importance since they contribute to the nutritional value of fish. The practical application of this work lies on the evaluation of the nutritional value of fish in terms of cardio protection by examining the impact of freezing on the levels of fatty acids and PAF‐antagonists in aquacultured fish fillets.