bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effect of Latex Film Distributions on Flexibility of Redispersible Polymer Powders Modified Cement Mortar Evaluated by SEM
Authors: Zhao Guo Rong , Wang Pei Ming , Zhang Guo Fang
Published: November 2015

Effect of latex film distributions on flexibility of redispersible polymer powders modified cement mortar were evaluated by scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Latex film distributions such as forming interpenetrated networks embedded in cement pastes, covering cement hydrates locally, bonding cement hydrates together, bridging aggregates were all beneficial for the improvement of flexibility of cement mortar. Latex film distributions such as remaining single particles in cement mortar, completing film formation unsuccessfully, film formation on surfaces of aggregates, bonding cement minerals to surfaces of aggregates may contribute little to the improvement of flexibility of cement mortar.
Influences and Properties of Mortar Modified by Waterborne Polyurethane Latexes
Authors: Wang Rui , Li Lei , Wang Wei , Wang Hong Song , Jiang Yong Jing , Shen Da Pu
Published: November 2015

Two waterborne polyurethane latexes with different tensile strength were employed to modify mortar and the properties of mortar including air entrainment, setting behavior, compressive and flexural strength were investigated. The results show that curing methods, polymer-cement ratio and water-cement ratio have a significant impact on the compressive and flexural strength. The strength of mortar increased under dry curing condition in the range of the polymer-cement ratio from 0.005 to 0.05 (by weight) at water-cement ratio of 0.5. The hydration of the cement containing waterborne polyurethane latexes was not affected and no visible film was found in SEM images.
Hard and Soft: Toughening Concrete by Impregnation with Functional Elastomers
Authors: Weichold Oliver , Puterman Moshe
Published: November 2015

Toughening is a concept frequently used in brittle materials in order to prevent premature failure. For concrete, toughening is almost exclusively achieved by pre-stressing, i.e. by creating residual stresses that force cracks to close. However, this can only be accomplished with certain element geometries and is particularly unsuitable for thin specimens.An alternative method of toughening is to deflect the crack or to absorb the crack tip by means of a suitable material, in particular viscoelastic polymers. In the present study, the concrete samples are transformed into hybrid inorganic/organic composites, in which the organic phase exerts the crack-stopping properties. To do so, the pore system is filled with a mixture of methyl methacrylate and 2-hydroxyethyl methacrylate, which is then polymerised to form a functional copolymer. Witha 1:1 ratio of the two monomers, a 4.5-fold increase in flexural strength and 2.3-fold increase in bending modulus was observed compared to the reference concrete. It is assumed that the additional increase compared to concrete impregnated with polymers not containing 2-hydroxyethyl methacrylate is the direct consequence of the interfacial interaction provided by the presence of pendant hydroxyethyl groups in the polymer.
Use of Polymer for Rehabilitation of Uneven Settlement in Concrete Roadbed Slabs of Tunnels
Authors: Liu Jing , Zheng Xin Guo , Li Shu Ming , Zeng Zhi , Yang De Jun , Weng Zhi Cai , Liu Xiang Hui
Published: November 2015

In some tunnels of railway lines located in water-rich region, due to the long-term water leakage and erosion, the foundation of railway lines showed large uneven settlement deformation, so the above concrete roadbed slabs also experienced uneven settlement accordingly. The smoothness of railway tracks diminished, and the speed of passing trains had to be limited to ensure safety. To restore the smoothness of the tracks, a dedicated polymer injection technology for quick uplift rehabilitation of uneven settlement concrete roadbed slabs was studied on site just within the specified daily skylight time (about 3 hours every day) of the railway lines. A hydrophobic polymer with low-viscosity, quick-setting and high-strength properties was used for injecting, filling and uplifting the concrete slabs in water-rich foundations. The high-precision electronic levels were adopted to monitor rising height of the tracks in real time. After rehabilitation, the filling quality of polymer injection under roadbed slabs was examined using Φ50 mm core samples and the strength of hardened polymer was verified by compressive strength test. Results indicated that the polymer could uplift the concrete roadbed slabs effectively and restore the smoothness of railway tracks accurately even in the water-rich environment. The research can provide some valuable references for quick rehabilitation of uneven settlement concrete roadbed slabs in water-rich tunnels.
Use of Polymers to Enhance Concrete Performance
Authors: Czarnecki Lech
Published: November 2015

Decades ago, an implantation of polymer into concrete has taken an effect in Concrete Polymer Composites, C-PC – new concrete classes and since that time a constant developmentpolymers in concretetechnology has been observed. The object of the study in short definition has been described and classified. The meaning ofpolymer better concreteas well ashow polymer improves the concretehas been explained. It has been analyzed and stressed that the polymer function in concrete is much higher than one could deduct from their mass share. The reason for that is synergy effect – the result of cooperation of polymers with other components of concrete. The recognition and using of synergic effects is the main but not only one direction of research works. Thepolymer in concrete productto be attractive on the market should fit up away growing demands of application and be based on the current status of knowledge. It means persistent and online resolvingMaterial Model – Performance Modelrelation. Long time study on the modelling of cement hydration and polymer hardening process in Polymer Cement Concrete proved how significant is the idea/theory in technology development. Currently great expectation has been demonstrated towards Water-Soluble Polymers, WSP as nanomodifier of great potentiality. Various types of polymers in various amounts can be used for C-PC; even the polymer of the same type can be differentiated by the structure of polymer chain (length, branching) – this creates almost unlimited area of the control performance of C-PC. Outcome of the past ASPIC and ICPIC Congresses confirms that the research efforts have been always oriented on the engineering results based on the material microstructure understanding. The role of polymers in concrete could be not overestimated.
Development of Polymer Modified Rice Husk Ash Concrete (PMRHAC)
Authors: Saand Abdullah , Bangwar Daddan Khan , Kerio Manthar Ali
Published: November 2015

The polymer modification of the concrete has been performed successfully for last more than 85 years. A number of polymer-based admixtures are being used to alter the properties of concrete to be used for repair and rehabilitation of concrete. The initiated research focuses on a new approach of development of polymer-modified concrete with appropriate replacement of cement with rice husk ash (RHA) produced by the incineration of rice husk. This paper presents the optimum possible replacement of cement with rice husk ash by not compromising on mechanical properties of concrete and addition of optimum proportion of re-dispersible polymer powder (RPP).The Energy Dispersive Spectrometer (EDS) and X-ray diffraction (XRD) were conducted to verify silica content and amorphous silica in RHA. The replacement of cement with RHA was done with 1% to 15%. The significant improvement in compressive strength with 10 % replacement of cement with RHA is obvious in the results. Further, on inclusion of various % age dosages of RPP in the optimum mix of rice husk ash concrete, the visible improvement in the strength, particularly in the tensile strength is achieved with 2.5 % (of weight of cement) inclusion of re-dispersible polymer powder.
Lightweight Polyurethane Mortar with Structural Properties
Authors: Calderón V. , Horgnies Matthieu , Arroyo Raquel , Rodríguez A. , Gutiérrez-González S.
Published: November 2015

Mortars made with Portland cement, sand, water and recycled polyurethane foam from industrial waste, including surfactants, are examined in this study. The research was carried out on the influences of the additives on the physical and mechanical properties of these recycled mortars. Results show that in spite of the porosity increase and apparent density decrease with the incorporation of polymer, mechanical strength remains enough or even higher than the reference samples that do not include polyurethane. Microstructure was analyzed by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and the study was completed with a reconstruction of the macrostructure by Computerized Axial Tomography
Longitudinal Thermal Movement of Polymer Concrete Irrigation Aqueducts
Authors: Yeon Kyu Seok , Hwang Jin Yong , Kim Chul Young , Yeon Jung Heum
Published: November 2015

This study evaluates the longitudinal thermal movements of precast polymer concrete aqueducts made with MMA modified UP polymer concrete. The aqueduct investigated in this study had a total span length of 30 m, which is composed of three 10 m span flumes with an inner cross-section of 700 x 600 mm. To accomplish this objective, temperature and corresponding longitudinal movements of transverse expansion joints were continuously monitored in the field for 23 months. The maximum seasonal variation of joint displacement was found to be approximately 13 to 14 mm, which is relatively high. Also, the field measurements were compared with theoretical calculations to validate the experimental data, and the results showed a good agreement with each other. Finally, in this study, an adjustable expansion joint system for aqueducts was devised in order to prevent water leakage and joint deterioration resulting from successive thermal movements of joints.
Restoration of Glass Panel – Reinforced Concrete Grillage Roof Shell of Ensor Gallery in Ostend (B)
Authors: Ignoul Sven , Van Gemert Dionys
Published: November 2015

The roof of the Ensor-gallery at Ostend is a cylindrical vault, constructed as a coarse grillage of reinforced concrete, with embedded reinforced concrete roof panels with prismatic glass tiles. The concrete ribs of the roof shell were heavily damaged by long term exposure to the chloride containing sea air, causing severe reinforcement corrosion. The paper presents the experimental data on the degradation, as well as the alternative approach used in the restoration project to avoid the loss of a major part of the authentic material. The approach is based on a combination of galvanic cathodic protection with embedded and bored in sacrificing anodes, the application of a chloride inhibiting impregnation followed by a realkalising treatment on the preserved parts, concrete repair and reconstruction with a self-compacting, shrinkage compensating, polymer modified repair mortar. Completely denuded steel reinforcement bars were replaced by glass fiber reinforced polyester rods.
Strength and Sulfuric Acid Resistance of Three Component Geopolymer
Authors: Goda Hiroki , Harada Koji , Tsugo Shunji , Hibino Makoto
Published: November 2015

The compressive strength and resistance to chemical attack of a fly-ash-based geopolymer, to which ground granulated blast furnace slag (B.F.S) and silica fume were added as mineral admixtures, were evaluated. The B.F.S. constituted 10% of the total powder amount in this geopolymer, which exhibited a high compressive strength. In addition, the compressive strength remained unchanged with proportional additions of silica fume to the mixture. The geopolymer exhibited, however, different resistance to sulfuric acid and sodium sulfate solutions during diffusion testing. In fact, the resistance of the B.F.S-containing mix to sulfuric acid was enhanced by the addition of silica fume and by autoclaving.
Influence of Re-Dispersible Powders on Very Early Shrinkage in Functional Mortars
Authors: Bier Thomas A. , Bajrami Adrian , Westphal Torsten , Qoku Elsa , Qorllari Anxhelina
Published: November 2015

Functional, high performance mortars such as Self-Leveling Underlayments (SLU), Tile Adhesives (TA) or Grouting Mortars (GM) are composed, besides complex binders, of mineral and organic fillers, and most importantly admixtures. Amongst the organic fillers, re-dispersible powders produced by spray drying from emulsions, are added to improve flexibility, adhesion and water resistance. These powders, however, also influence fresh properties such as workability and plastic shrinkage or sedimentation. Additionally they are prone to interfere with the hydration kinetics thus playing a role in the very early structuring process of a cement-based mortar.In this study, the influence of re-dispersible powders on sedimentation, plastic as well as chemical shrinkage in ternary binder composites has been investigated for the first 24 hours. The structuring process has been additionally characterized by the hydrate phase development. Ternary binders are defined in this study as compositions of Calcium Aluminate Cement (CAC), Ordinary Portland Cement (OPC) and Calcium Sulfate (CS̅).The addition of re-dispersible powders showed not only the well-known retardation in hydration kinetics, longer setting times and increased gel times but also changed dimensional stability. Dimensional changes occurring during the first 24 hours were monitored by different test devices in order to separate different shrinkage/expansion mechanisms. The measurements are compared to the in-situ measurement of phase development by XRD.
Monitoring Fatigue Damage in PC Using Carbon Nanotubes
Authors: Garner Amy , Genedy Moneeb , Tarefder R. , Taha Mahmoud Reda
Published: November 2015

Polymer concrete (PC) overlays are typically used in infrastructure applications, specifically bridges and parking structures, to provide durable protection to the structural system. However, PC suffers from cracking and crack propagation during its service life mostly due to fatigue. Fatigue cracking of PC results in limiting the service life of PC considerably. Monitoring of fatigue damage in PC can help extend PC service life.In this paper, we demonstrate the possible use of carbon nanotubes to monitor damage initiation and propagation in PC under fatigue loading. PC prisms were produced using epoxy polymer concrete with varying contents of multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs). The percolation level of MWCNTs necessary to produce conductive PC was first determined. Fatigue testing using an AASHTO modified test set-up was conducted. Electrical conductivity of PC overlay was continuously measured during fatigue testing. Damage initiation and propagation in PC incorporating MWCNTs overlays can be detected and monitored.
Forty years of European Society for Muscle Research
Authors: Schaub Marcus C.
Published: November 2015

The European Muscle Club was founded 1971 and since 1972 yearly muscle conferences were held in turn in different European countries. Regular scientific meetings in the field of muscle research did not exist before. The name of the Muscle Club was 1988 changed to European Society for Muscle Research (ESMR). The yearly meetings usually attract 200-300 participants. The 39th meeting will be held 11-15 Sept. 2010 in Abano Terme near Padova, and the 40th meeting 14-18 Sept. 2011 in Berlin. Since 1980 the meeting reports and abstracts are regularly published in the Journal of Muscle Research and Cell Motility (JMRCM). The history of the society and the muscle scientists involved with it will be outlined.
Myology Meetings 2010
Authors: Editors The
Published: November 2015

Not available.
Combination treatment of physical modalities in the treatment of musculoskeletal pain syndromes: a prospective-controlled study
Authors: Pieber Karin , Herceg Malvina , Kienbauer Melanie , Peceny Roland , Grim-Stieger Martina , Kern Helmut , Paternostro-Sluga Tatjana
Published: November 2015

The aim of the study was to evaluate the effect of combinations of several physical therapies in the treatment of musculoskeletal pain syndromes by a prospective, controlled study. Forty patients (5 men and 35 women, 18-80 years) with musculoskeletal pain syndrome were included. Thirty patients were assigned to the intervention group and 10 patients to the control group. The intervention group received a combination of physical therapies according to the clinical needs (electrotherapy, fango packs, mud packs, ultrasound, massage, exercise therapy). Treatment consisted of 10 sessions. The control group did not receive any physical therapy in the waiting period. The intervention group was examined at the beginning and the end of the treatment period. The control group was evaluated at the beginning and the end of the waiting period (before their physical therapy treatment started). Main outcome measurements were: Visual analogue scale for pain (VAS); Timed Get up and Go Test (TUG); Functional Reach Test (FRT). In addition bodily, emotional and social functioning was accessed by selected ICF-Items and items of the SF-36 health survey (SF-36). The main outcome measures showed significant improvement in the intervention group compared to the control group. Furthermore, ICF- and SF-36-Items also improved. In conclusion significant pain relief and improvement of function was achieved by a combination treatment of physical therapies in patients with musculoskeletal pain syndromes.
Functional Echomyography of the human denervated muscle: first results
Authors: Zanato Riccardo , Martino Leonora , Stramare Roberto
Published: November 2015

In this study we followed with ultrasound three patients with permanent denervation to evaluate changes in morphology, thickness, contraction and vascularisation of muscles undergoing the home-based electrical stimulation program of the Rise2-Italy project. During a period of 1 year for the first subject, 6 months for the second subject and 3 months for the third subject we studied with ultrasound the denervated muscle comparing it (if possible) to the contralateral normal muscle. We evaluated: 1. Changes in morphology and sonographic structure of the pathologic muscle; 2. Muscular thickness in response to the electrical stimulation therapy; 3. Short-term modifications in muscle perfusion and arterial flow patterns after stimulation; 4. Contraction-relaxation kinetic induced by volitional activity or electrical stimulation. Morphology and ultrasonographic structure of the denervated muscles changed during the period of stimulation from a pattern typical of complete muscular atrophy to a pattern which might be considered “normal” when detected in an old patient. Thickness improved significantly more in the middle third than in the proximal and distal third of the denervated muscle, reaching in the last measurements of the first subject approximately the same thickness as the contralateral normal muscle. In all the measurements done within this study, arterial flow of the denervated muscle showed at rest a low-resistance pattern with Doppler Ultra Sound (US), and a pulsed pattern after electrical stimulation. The stimulation- induced pattern is similar to the trifasic high-resistance pattern of the normal muscle. Contraction- relaxation kinetic, measured by recording the muscular movements during electrical stimulation, showed an abnormal behaviour of the denervated muscle during the relaxation phase, which resulted to be significantly longer than in normal muscle (880 msec in the denervated muscle vs 240 msec in the contralateral normal one). The very high energy needed to stimulate the denervated muscles according to the Vienna home-based Functional Electrical Stimulation (h-b FES) strategy demonstrates that the explored muscles are denervated. This pilot study confirms the usefulness of Functional EchoMyography in the follow-up and the positive effects of h-b FES of denervated/reinnervating muscles.
Abstracts of the VIII Annual Meeting of the Interuniversity Institute of Myology | Sestri Levante, October 27-29, 2011
Authors: Editors The
Published: November 2015

Not available.
Serum and tissue markers of myopathy in patients with colorectal cancer
Authors: Adami Nicoletta
Published: November 2015

Skeletal muscles in patients with cancer undergo many changes due to immuno-inflammatory factors of tumor origin, or to chemotherapy and irradiation. Aim of the present study is to identify serological biomarkers and early myopathic features in skeletal muscle biopsies from weight stable patients bearing colorectal cancer at the onset of disease. Morphometric analyses by histochemistry and immunohistochemistry were performed on intraoperative muscle biopsies from patients with early colorectal cancer and from weight stable patients undergoing surgery for benign non-inflammatory conditions. Serological analyses for testing markers of inflammation (C Reactive Protein, CRP), muscle enzymes, (Creatin Kinase, CK), soluble isoforms of adhesion molecules (Neural Cell Adhesion Molecule, NCAM), and a marker of protein turnover (prealbumin, a typical indicator of caloric and protein malnutrition) were also performed. Fifty oncologic patients (28 male/22 female) and 25 non oncologic patients (18 male/7 female) (p=N.S.) were studied. In muscles from cancer patients we observed a subclinical myopathy characterized by an abnormal distribution of myonuclei. The percentage of myofibers with internalized nuclei was significantly higher in oncologic (median= 13.1%, IQR= 6.0-20.3) than in non oncologic patients (median= 3%, IQR= 2.5-6.1) (p<0.0001). The frequency of these internally nucleated myofibers is even higher in a subgroup of oncologic patients taking myotoxic drugs. In cancer patients, we observed an inverse correlation between the number of internally nucleated fibers and the presence of node metastasis (N+) (ρ)=-0.30 (p=0.03). Moreover, in patients with colorectal cancer, low serum levels of preoperative prealbumin (median= 167,7 mg/L, normal range 200-400 mg/L), were detected. The link between the observed early myopathy and long-term cachexia is supported also by the altered expression of sarcolemma associated proteins, in particular laminin and dystrophin. Patients affected with colorectal cancer at disease onset display low pre surgical serum levels of prealbumin (also known as transtiretin) and regenerating myofibers in the rectus abdominis muscle. The myopathy appears to be associated with an early stage of cancer and it could be interpreted as a consequence on the skeletal muscle of anti-cancer defense mechanisms (pro- apoptotic, thus non inflammatory), during the pre-invasive stage of the neoplasia. A comprehensive study on the potential molecular mechanisms that are responsible for this cancer-associated myopathy could possibly provide new diagnostic and prognostic biomarkers and new therapeutic targets to prevent the severe loss of muscle tissue which characterizes late-onset cancer cachexia.
Bone and muscle assessment in patients undergoing total hip arthroplasty using HU based analysis
Authors: Pétursson Þröstur , Magnússon Benedikt , Helgason Benedikt , Magnúsdóttir Gigja , Halldórsson Grétar , Tribel Jan , Jónsson jr Halldór , Gargiulo Paolo
Published: November 2015

Total hip arthroplasty (THA) is performed with or without the use of bone cement. The lack of reliable clinical guidelines for deciding which one to implement has encouraged this approach of joint clinical and engineering with the following objectives: 1. Validate quadriceps muscles and femur bone atrophy by extracting the mineral density from Computer Tomographic (CT) images. 2. Validate computational processes based on 3-D modeling and Finite Element Methods (FEM). A clinical trial was started, where 36 volunteer patients underwent THA surgery for the first time: 18 receiving cemented implant and 18 receiving uncemented implant. The patients were CT scanned prior-, immediately after and 12 months post-surgery. The CT data are further processed to segment muscles and bones and to create 3D-models for the simulation and for calculating bone mineral density (BMD). Furthermore quadriceps muscle density Hounsfield (HU) based value is calculated from the segmented file on healthy and operated leg. These preliminary results indicate computational tools and methods that are able to quantitatively analyse patient’s condition pre and post-surgery. The BMD and muscle density measurement in correlation with the fracture risk analysis display a potential method for eligibility to receive non-cemented implant; the preliminary results show that also elderly that according with current clinical evaluation receives a cemented implant are suitable for the non-cemented type. The risk for structural failure during THA surgery is estimated by calculating femoral bone fracture risk index (FRI) as a ratio between compressive stress during surgery and estimated failure stress on bone. The correlations with the BMD observations during the clinical trial will assess and validate this potential predictor tool.
Archibald V. Hill’s contribution to science and society
Authors: Vrbová Gerta
Published: November 2015

A brief account of A.V. Hill’s contribution to our understanding of muscle contraction is given. This includes an overview of discoveries that led to solving the problem how chemical events provide the energy for mechanical work. Hill helped to train and educate a generation of scientists to use concise mathematical treatment of biological phenomena. He also taught his students moral values important when pursuing research. Finally Hill’s deep belief in the international nature of scientific work and his human qualities led him to join Lord Rutherford to become founder member of the Academic Assistance Council, an organization that rescued around 1500 academics from Nazi occupied Europe during the Second World War. With all these activities taken together Hill can be considered a person who made an exceptionally important contribution to the cultural and scientific life of the 20th and 21st century.
2013 Autumn Padua Muscle Days | Terme Euganee, Italy, November 14-16
Authors: Editors The
Published: November 2015

Not available.
CIR-Myo News
Authors: Editors The
Published: November 2015

Not available.
2013 Autumn Padua Muscle Days | Padova and Terme Euganee, Italy, November 14-16
Authors: Editors The
Published: November 2015

Not available.
Evidence based medicine in physical medicine and rehabilitation (English version)
Authors: Kern Helmut , Loefler Stefan , Fialka-Moser Veronika , Paternostro-Sluga Tatjana , Crevenna Richard , Burggraf Samantha , Fruhmann Hannah , Hofer Christian , Burmester Claudia , Süsoy Benjamin , Strasser Eva-Maria , Praschak Markus , Grestenberger Wolfgang , Hartl Friedrich , Ebenbichler Gerold , Wiesinger Günther , Bochdansky Thomas , Wiederer Christian , Quittan Michael
Published: November 2015

In the last twenty years the term “Evidence Based Medicine (EBM)” has spread into all areas of medicine and is often used for decision-making in the medical and public health sector. It is also used to verify the significance and/or the effectiveness of different therapies. The definition of EBM is to use the physician’s individual expertise, the patient’s needs and the best external evidence for each individual patient. Today, however, the term EBM is often wrongly used as a synonym for best “external evidence”. This leads not only to a misuse of evidence based medicine but suggests a fundamental misunderstanding of the model which was created by Gordon Guyatt, David Sackett and Archibald Cochrane. This problem becomes even greater the more social insurance institutions, public healthcare providers and politicians use external evidence alone as a main guideline for financing therapies in physical medicine and general rehabilitation without taking into account the physician’s expertise and the patient’s needs.The wrong interpretation of EBM can lead to the following problems: well established clinical therapies are either questioned or not granted and are therefore withheld from patients (for example physical pain management). Absence of evidence for individual therapy methods does not prove their ineffectiveness! In this short statement the significance of EBM in physical medicine and general rehabilitation will be analysed and discussed.
The biology of long-term denervated skeletal muscle
Authors: Carlson Bruce M.
Published: November 2015

This review concentrates on the biology of long-term denervated muscle, especially as it relates to newer techniques for restoring functional mass. After denervation, muscle passes through three stages: 1) immediate loss of voluntary function and rapid loss of mass, 2) increasing atrophy and loss of sarcomeric organization, and 3) muscle fiber degeneration and replacement of muscle by fibrous connective tissue and fat. Parallel to the overall program of atrophy and degeneration is the proliferation and activation of satellite cells, and the appearance of neomyogenesis within the denervated muscle. Techniques such as functional electrical stimulation take advantage of this capability to restore functional mass to a denervated muscle.
Simulation of the electrical field in equine larynx to optimize functional electrical stimulation in denervated musculus cricoarythenoideus dorsalis
Authors: Reichel Martin , Martinek Johannes
Published: November 2015

Distribution of the electrical field is very important to activate muscle and nerve cells properly. One therapeutic method to treat Recurrent Laryngeal Neuropathy (RLN) in horses can be performed by Functional Electrical Stimulation (FES). Current method to optimize the stimulation effect is to use implanted quadripolar electrodes to the musculus cricoarythenoideus dorsalis (CAD) and testing electrode configuration until best possible optimum is reached. For better understanding and finding of maximum possible activation of CAD a simulation model of the actual entire setting is currently in development. Therefore the geometric model is built from CT-data of a dissected larynx containing the quadripolar electrodes as well as fiducials for later data registration. The geometric model is the basis for a finite difference method containing of voxels with corresponding electrical conductivity of the different types of tissue due to threshold segmentation of the CT-data. Model validation can be done by the measurement of the 3D electrical potential distribution of a larynx positioned in an electrolytic tray. Finally, measured and calculated results have to be compared as well as further investigated. Preliminary results show, that changes of electrode as well as conductivity configuration leads to significant different voltage distributions and can be well presented by equipotential lines superimposed CT-slices – a Matlab graphical user interface visualizes the results in freely selectable slices of the 3D geometry. Voltage distribution along theoretically estimated fiber paths could be calculated as well as visualized. For further calculation of nerve or denervated muscle fiber activation and its optimization, real fiber paths have to be defined and referenced to the potential- and the CT-data.
3D structure of muscle dihydropyridine receptor
Authors: Samsó Montserrat
Published: November 2015

Excitation contraction coupling, the rapid and massive Ca2+ release under control of an action potential that triggers muscle contraction, takes places at specialized regions of the cell called triad junctions. There, a highly ordered supramolecular complex between the dihydropyridine receptor (DHPR) and the ryanodine receptor (RyR1) mediates the quasi‐instantaneous conversion from T‐tubule depolarization into Ca2+ release from the sarcoplasmic reticulum (SR). The DHPR has several key modules required for EC coupling: the voltage sensors and II‐III loop in the alpha1s subunit, and the beta subunit. To gain insight into their molecular organization, this review examines the most updated 3D structure of the DHPR as obtained by transmission electron microscopy and image reconstruction. Although structure determination of a heteromeric membrane protein such as the DHPR is challenging, novel technical advances in protein expression and 3D labeling facilitated this task. The 3D structure of the DHPR complex consists of a main body with five irregular corners around its perimeter encompassing the transmembrane alpha 1s subunit besides the intracellular beta subunit, an extended extracellular alpha 2 subunit, and a bulky intracellular II‐III loop. The structural definition attained at 19 Å resolution enabled docking of the atomic coordinates of structural homologs of the alpha1s and beta subunits. These structural features, together with their relative location with respect to the RyR1, are discussed in the context of the functional data.
CIR-Myo News: Proceedings of the Congress Functional rejuvenation in aging and neuromuscular disorders
Authors: Editors The
Published: November 2015

Not available.
Application of geo-spatial technology in schistosomiasis modelling in Africa: a review
Authors: Manyangadze Tawanda , Chimbari Moses John , Gebreslasie Michael , Mukaratirwa Samson
Published: November 2015

Schistosomiasis continues to impact socio-economic development negatively in sub-Saharan Africa. The advent of spatial technologies, including geographic information systems (GIS), Earth observation (EO) and global positioning systems (GPS) assist modelling efforts. However, there is increasing concern regarding the accuracy and precision of the current spatial models. This paper reviews the literature regarding the progress and challenges in the development and utilization of spatial technology with special reference to predictive models for schistosomiasis in Africa. Peer-reviewed papers identified through a PubMed search using the following keywords: geo-spatial analysis OR remote sensing OR modelling OR earth observation OR geographic information systems OR prediction OR mapping AND schistosomiasis AND Africa were used. Statistical uncertainty, low spatial and temporal resolution satellite data and poor validation were identified as some of the factors that compromise the precision and accuracy of the existing predictive models. The need for high spatial resolution of remote sensing data in conjunction with ancillary data viz. ground-measured climatic and environmental information, local presence/absence intermediate host snail surveys as well as prevalence and intensity of human infection for model calibration and validation are discussed. The importance of a multidisciplinary approach in developing robust, spatial data capturing, modelling techniques and products applicable in epidemiology is highlighted.
Monitoring techniques in the capture and adoption of dogs and cats
Authors: Ardila Galvis Jason Onell , Santos Baquero Oswaldo , Dias Ricardo Augusto , Ferreira Fernando , Nestori Chiozzotto Evelyn , Grisi-Filho José Henrique Hildebrand
Published: November 2015

The continuous improvement of the information systems of organizations that work toward the control of stray dog and cat populations facilitates the implementation of programs aimed at reducing the number of animals that roam free in public streets. This study aimed to present techniques to improve the understanding of the spatial distribution of stray dogs and cats and of people who adopt these animals and the fate of these animals in zoonosis control centers (ZCC). Ripley’s K function was used with a Euclidean distance graph to detect the distribution pattern of dogs and cats captured and of the people who adopted these animals. An estimate of the kernel density was used to allow a better assessment of the spatial distribution of the phenomenon studied. The results showed that the distribution of captured animals and of the people who adopted these animals form a spatial cluster (p = 0.01). Most of the animals were captured near the premises of the ZCC and near the downtown area. Factors such as the abandonment of animals near animal control agencies and the availability of food sources are the main hypotheses associated to the distribution of the captures. The awareness of the people who live in places where there is a greater number of stray animals and the distribution of the urban population are the main hypotheses to explain the distribution of the adoptions. The results will help to implement control measures over these populations in the most problematic areas.
The correlation between endothelin-1 levels and spirometry in dialysis patients compared to healthy subjects
Authors: Kovačević P. , Stanetić M. , Rajkovača Z. , Veljković S. , Kojicic M. , Joachim Meyer F.
Published: November 2015

Background and Aim. Several studies demonstrated a six-fold increase in plasma concentration of endothelin-1 (ET-1) in diaysis patients (hemodialysis and peritoneal dialysis) compared to healthy control subjects. However, the effects of ET-1 on respiratory function in these patients are less known. The aim of this study was to determine the potential differences in spirometric values in relation to ET-1 levels. Methods. The study included 28 patients (15 male, 13 female, mean age 55.9±16. 2 years) with end stage renal diseases (ESRD) receiving regular hemodialysis (HD), 23 patients (10 males, 13 females, mean age 55.8±15.8 years) with ESRD treated with continuous ambulatory peritoneal dialysis (CAPD) without any cardiovascular or respiratory diseases, and 30 healthy volunteers (14 male, 16 female, mean age 51.8±15.6 years) in control group. In each of the three groups the participants were divided into two additional sub-groups according to the serum levels of ET-1. The spirometry values were recorded before the onset of hemodialysis and prior to emptying the peritoneal cavity in CAPD patients. The results were analyzed using standard statistical methods (Student’s t-test). Results. Patients who were treated with HD or CAPD were found to have significant difference in values of most pulmonary function parameters between subjects with ET-1 levels lower than 6,6 pg/ml and subjects with ET-1 levels higher than 6,6 pg/ml. In the control group there was no difference in pulmonary function parameters in correlation with ET-1 levels. ET-1 values in patients of both dialysis groups were significantly higher compared to healthy subjects. Conclusions. Higher levels of ET-1 in dialysis patients over healthy subjects is associated with lower parameters of lung function tests. A possible pathophysiological mechanism for deterioration of pulmonary function might be explained by progression of inflammation, pulmonary oedema also known as “uraemic lung” or/and the progression of pulmonary hypertension.
Cost of a population-based programme of chest x-ray screening for lung cancer
Authors: Dominioni L. , Rotolo N. , Poli A. , Castiglioni M. , Mangini M. , Spagnoletti M. , Paolucci M. , Paddeu A. , Mantovani W. , Zanini A. , Imperatori A.
Published: November 2015

Background. After the implementation of a population- based programme of chest x-ray (CXR) screening on smokers in Varese, Italy, lung cancer (LC) mortality was significantly reduced. Analysis of the incremental costs due to this type of screening programme is needed to evaluate its economic impact on the healthcare system. Methods. In July 1997 a population-based cohort, consisting of all high-risk smokers (n=5,815) identified among 60,000 adult residents from the Varese province, was invited to a LC screening programme (an annual CXR for five years) in a general practice setting, and was observed through 2006. Invitees received National Health Service (NHS) usual care, with the addition of CXRs in screening participants. At the end of observation, among the 245 LCs diagnosed in the entire screening-invited cohort the observed LC deaths were 38 fewer than expected. To estimate the incremental direct cost due to screening in the invited cohort for the period July 1997-2006, we compared the direct cost of screening administration, CXR screens and LC management in the invited cohort and in the uninvited and unscreened controls in NHS usual care setting. Results. Over the 9.5 years, the total incremental direct healthcare costs (including screening organization/administration, CXR screens, additional procedures prompted by false-positive tests, overdiagnosed LCs) were estimated to range from € 607,440 to € 618,370 (in euros as of 2012), equating to between € 15,985- € 16,273 per patient out of the 38 LC deaths averted. Conclusions. In a general practice setting, the incremental cost for a CXR screening programme targeted at all high-risk smokers in a population of 60,000 adults was estimated to be about €65,000 per annum, approx. €16,000 for each LC death averted.
Pleurodesis in the treatment of pneumothorax and pleural effusion
Authors: Rodríguez Suárez P.M. , Freixinet Gilart J.L.
Published: November 2015

Malignant pleural effusion and persistent and/or recurrent spontaneous pneumothorax are clinical entities requiring pleurodesis to avoid the accumulation of liquid and air, respectively. The objectives are to alleviate symptoms (dyspnea, pain and cough), decrease prolonged air leak, avoid recurrence and improve quality of life. Chemical pleurodesis utilizes chemical irritants. The most common of these is “talc” because of its efficiency and its success in lowering the rate of recurrence. Its main indication is in the palliative treatment of malignant pleural effusion. Other substances less frequently used because they are rarely used currently or under study are cytostatics, antibiotics, antiseptics and autologous blood. Surgical pleurodesis with mechanical abrasion by videothoracoscopy is indicated primarily in the treatment of spontaneous pneumothorax because it is highly efficient, easy to carry out, and has low morbidity when compared to pleurectomy. Using pleurodesis in benign effusion is highly controversial. Its principal indications are hepatic hydrothorax, chylothorax, and cardiac effusion that does not respond to medical treatment. Plasma determinations of systemic inflammatory markers and thoracic ultrasound studies can evaluate the efficacy of pleurodesis. We do not recommend the use of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs in the postoperative period to avoid the possibility of interfering with hemostasis or the formation of adherences.
How can we know the existence of God: Anselm and Aquinas?
Authors: Nnaeme Chibuikem C.
Published: November 2015

This article is concerned with how we can know about the existence of God. In attempting to do this, the article will single out two medieval thinkers, Anselm and Aquinas, and will examine their stances on the subject. The former holds, as exemplified in his ontological proof,that human beings can rationally know the existence of God, whilst the latter objects to theformer�s claim by proffering that human beings can know God�s existence through effects of God�s creation. Over the years these positions have appealed to people who defend eitherstr and of the argument. Such a followership makes worthwhile my efforts to contribute to the ongoing debate. It is my intention to show the argument of each of these positions and indicate which is more plausible to human beings. It is vital to note that Anselm and Aquinas both accept the existence of God; therefore, the existence of God is not in question for them.The article will only concentrate on where the two thinkers differ in terms of how human beings can know God�s existence.Intradisciplinary and/or interdisciplinary implications: This article challenges idealists�philosophy that human beings can prove God�s existence from the concept, God, as epitomisedby Anselm�s ontological argument. The critique of the argument through the application of Aquinas�s realism exposes the limitedness of the human beings in epistemological conception of the absolute metaphysical reality.
Exploring ubuntu
Authors: M�ller Julian
Published: November 2015

No abstract available
Percutaneous CT-Guided Ablation in the Hepatic Dome: Artificially Induced Pneumothorax for Safe Transpleural Access
Authors: Valle Leonardo Guedes Moreira , Rochal Rafael Dahmer , Rahal Antônio , Garcia Rodrigo Gobbo
Published: November 2015

Ablative therapies have become a great alternative to surgical treatment of hepatic nodules. Some technical difficulties may negatively influence the effectiveness of this therapy, such as lesions located near the diaphragm. The transthoracic approach is commonly used to access these lesions. However, it is associated with an increased risk of complications, such as pneumothorax, hemothorax, alveolar bleeding, and others. We report a case of a radiofrequency ablation of a lesion in the hepatic dome, where an artificially induced pneumothorax was performed to guarantee a safe and effective access. The air was easily injected by a spinal needle and later aspirated by a single-lumen catheter. Induced pneumothorax shoud be considered in ablation of hepatic dome lesions, mainly when the transhepatic access is not appropriate.
Small Prime Solutions to Cubic Diophantine Equations II
Authors: Liu Zhixin
Published: November 2015

Let a1, …, a9 be non-zero integers and n any integer. Suppose that a1, …, a9 ≡ n (mod 2) and (ai, aj) = 1 for 1 ≤ i ≤ j ≤ 9. In this paper we prove that

(i)

if aj are not all of the same sign, then the cubic equation has prime solutions satisfying

(ii)

if all aj are positive and , then is soluble in primes pj.

These results improve our previous results with the bounds max{|aj|}14+ε and max{|aj|}43+ε in place of max{|aj|}8+ε and max{|aj|}25+ε above, respectively.
The Pathological Gambler and his Spouse: How do their Narratives Match?
Authors: Cunha Diana , Sotero Luciana , Relvas Ana Paula
Published: November 2015

This case study compares the narratives of a pathological gambler and his spouse concerning family, marital and individual matters. It does so through identifying each of the key players' narratives individually (analysis of self-report questionnaires) and interactively (couples therapy sessions analysis). The results show that the gambler has a rather more positive view of gambling-related issues than does his spouse, and this fact is most apparent when it comes to marital and family issues. The gambler's perspective is less positive when it comes to non-relationship issues (financial and professional issues). A few hypotheses are put forward to explain these results and these are summarized in three effects: denial, idealization/guilt relief, and disappointment/retaliation. Some implications for clinical practice are also identified, such as the need to set therapy objectives which are truly shared by both members of the couple, as well as guidelines for future research, such as studies focused on gender differences.