bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Adsorption/Desorption Characteristics for Methane, Nitrogen and Carbon Dioxide of Coal Samples from Southeast Qinshui Basin, China
Authors: Zhou Fengde , Hussain Furqan , Guo Zhenghuai , Yanici Sefer , Cinar Yildiray
Published: July 2013

This paper presents an experimental and modelling study of the adsorption/desorption of pure gases CH4, CO2 and N2 and their binary and ternary mixtures on coal samples obtained from southeast Qinshui Basin, China. Results show that the adsorbed amounts of N2, CH4 and CO2 have approximate ratios of 1.0:1.3:2.4, respectively. No significant hysteresis from adsorption to desorption is observed for pure N2 and CH4 whereas significant hysteresis is measured for CO2 in CO2-CH4 and CO2-CH4-N2 mixtures and CH4 in the N2- CH4 mixture. The experimental observations are modelled using three different models, namely the extended Langmuir (EL), the Langmuir-based ideal adsorbed solution (L-IAS) and the Dubinlin-Radushkevich-based ideal adsorbed solution (D-R-IAS). The models predict well the experimental observations for desorption tests. But the measurements for the low adsorbate capacity in binary and ternary mixtures are overestimated by the prediction models. It is found that the EL model predicts the CO2-CH4 desorption test better while the D-R-IAS model is the best model for the CO2-CH4-N2 adsorption.
An Overview of Automobile Noise and Vibration Control
Authors: Mohanty A. R. , Fatima S.
Published: July 2013

In this paper the current state-of-the-art techniques in automobile noise and vibration control are presented. Automobile designers and manufacturers have to pay attention to the global competition of their products, adherence to legislative regulations and passenger/driver comfort while designing an automobile and its components. Designers can take advantage of efficient numerical modeling techniques so that in before the prototype of the automobile is produced, the design can be tweaked and modified by using computer aided models to optimize the design with a target of achieving low noise and vibration levels in the prototype. Here, examples of some typical cases are provided where optimum levels of noise and vibration level are obtained in the design of automobile components using computer aided engineering techniques
Non-Uniform Thermal Behaviour of Suspen-Dome with Stacked Arch Structures
Authors: HongboLiu  , Chen Zhihua
Published: July 2013

In recent years, the arch has been introduced into other structures to form new spatial structures. Typical is the suspen-dome with stacked arches (SDSA), which has been adopted for the Chiping Gymnasium. SDSAs consist of upper arches and a lower suspen-dome. The temperature distribution of the SDSA structure is non-uniform and temperatures are higher than ambient air temperature because of the exposure of the upper arches to solar radiation. The structural behaviour of SDSAs is very complex, therefore, under non-uniform thermal loading with solar radiation taken into account. The variation of thermal behaviour over time under summer solar radiation was studied as well as the effect of cable sliding friction and healing temperature (i.e. the ambient temperature at completion of construction) on the non-uniform thermal behaviour. The analysis results indicate that (1) solar radiation significantly affects SDSAs; (2) the structural behaviour of SDSAs with non-sliding cable–strut joints (i.e. the friction is too large to slide) is better than those with sliding cable–strut joints (i.e. the friction is zero) under non-uniform thermal loading; (3) the healing temperature of the upper arches and the lower suspen-dome significantly affects thermal response, and the optimal healing temperature for the SDSA structure can be determined.
A Novel Cast Aluminum Joint for Reticulated Shell Structures: Experimental Study and Modeling
Authors: Shi Gang , Ban Huiyong , Bai Yu , Wang Yuanqing , Luo Cui , Shi Yongjiu
Published: July 2013

Aluminum has been increasingly used in reticulated shell structures for large span applications. The joint configuration in such space structure is essentially important for both architectural and structural performance. A novel cast aluminum joint was introduced in this paper. Full-scale specimens were examined under three loading conditions to study the mechanical performance and failure mechanism. The rotational stiffness, critical sections, and failure modes of the specimens assembled with this novel cast aluminum joint were investigated. Finite element analysis was further performed and validated by the experimental results in order to examine the local stress distributions. Based on the experimental and numerical results, it was found that out-of-plane rotational stiffness of this novel joint was larger than that of in-plane and the joint in both directions was semi-rigid according to Eurocode 3. The cross sections of the joint end and beam end with bolt holes were the critical sections. The comparison of calculated results from elastic FEA and Euler beam theory indicated that reliable safety factors should be considered if the latter is used in design, because of the stress concentration at critical sections.
Prediction of Concrete Shrinkage Occurring Prior to External Loading and Effect on Short-Term Constitutive Modeling and Design
Authors: Gribniak Viktor , Torres Lluis , Kaklauskas Gintaris , Daniunas Alfonsas , Kacianauskas Rimantas , Jakubovskis Ronaldas
Published: July 2013

Although shrinkage effect is traditionally taken into account in the assessment of long-term deformation of concrete structures, it may significantly affect cracking resistance and deformations of reinforced concrete members subjected to short-term load. Though generally neglected, the shrinkage effect may be of high significance in constitutive modeling of tension-stiffening, particularly, when it is based on tests of reinforced concrete members. Disregarding the shrinkage effect may result in considerable errors of deflection predictions. This paper statistically investigates the accuracy of several well-known free shrinkage strain prediction techniques: Eurocode 2, ACI 209, CNIIS (Russia), Bažant & Baweja's (B3), and Gardner & Lockman's (GL 2000). Accuracy of shrinkage prediction models and the influence of shrinkage assessment errors on constitutive modeling and deformation prediction results are illustrated and discussed. Unlike the previous investigations, the present study considers a shrinking period characteristic to the age of a member at first loading. The manuscript reports recommendations useful for short-term constitutive and deformation analysis of reinforced concrete.
Self-Stressed Steel Fiber Reinforced Concrete as Negative Moment Connection for Strengthening of Multi-Span Simply-Supported Girder Bridges
Authors: Wang Wen-Wei , Dai Jian-Guo
Published: July 2013

A self-stressed steel fiber reinforced concrete (SS-SFRC) moment connection is proposed to strengthen multi-span simply-supported T-section reinforced concrete (RC) girders. In the proposed moment connection technique, old concrete needs to be removed from adjacent girder ends and negative moment reinforcement is placed into cast-in-place SS-SFRC to develop continuity over the interior support. Two series of tests consisting of 15 girder specimens were conducted to investigate the reliability of the proposed SS-SFRC moment connection. An analytical model is presented to predict the load-carrying capacity of the resulting continuous composite girders. Test results show that SS-SFRC is excellent in preventing concrete cracking at the interior support. Both the load-carrying capacity and the serviceability of the strengthened girders are significantly improved. The analytical model is demonstrated to predict the load-carrying capacity of the resulting continuous composited girders with an acceptable degree of accuracy.
Buckling Strength of Single Angle Struts Part 1: Angles Subject to Axial Compression
Authors: Chen Shaofan , Wang Xiantie
Published: July 2013

Hot rolled angles are classified into two categories: equal-legged and unequal legged. They behave differently when subjected to axial compression owing to the difference in section symmetry: the equal-leg angle has one axis of symmetry while the unequal-leg one is asymmetric. This article aims at providing practical approaches for determining buckling strength of the two kinds of single angle struts subject to axial compression.

For equal-leg angles, the first issue of concern is the failure mode. Although most researchers agree that equal-leg single angle buckles flexurally about the minor axis in the inelastic range as well as in the elastic range, some others got different conclusion. Through meticulous analysis based on tangent modulus concept, it is shown in this study that flexural-torsional buckling about the major axis is not the dominant failure mode. On the other hand, leg plate buckling may occur before the flexural buckling. So, a factor of effective yield strength is suggested for calculating the interactive local-flexural buckling, and the approach is verified with available test data.

For unequal-leg angles, which always buckle in flexural-torsional mode, attention is focused on the simplification of the formula for calculating the critical load. Simplified formula of equivalent slenderness ratio is derived to transform the flexural-torsional buckling problem into a flexural one and is verified with available test data.

The results arrived at in this study are recommended for routine design use.
Noise from a Jet Discharged into a Duct and its Suppression
Authors: Zaman K.B.M.Q. , Clem M. M. , Fagan A. F.
Published: July 2013

This study addresses unwanted high intensity noise sometimes encountered in engine test facilities. Model-scale experiments are conducted for a round jet discharged into a cylindrical duct. In most cases, the unwanted noise is found to be due to longitudinal resonance modes of the duct excited by the random turbulence of the jet. When the ‘preferred mode’ frequency of the jet matches a duct resonant frequency there can be a locked-in ‘super-resonance’ accompanied by a high intensity tone or ‘howl’. Various techniques are explored for suppression of the unwanted noise. Tabs placed on the ends of the duct are found ineffective; so are longitudinal fins placed inside the duct. Arod inserted perpendicular to the flow (‘howl stick’) is also found generally ineffective; however, it is effective when there is a super-resonance. By far the most effective suppression is achieved by a wire-mesh screen placed at the end of the duct. The screen not only eliminates the super-resonance but also the duct mode spectral peaks. Apparently the screen works by dampening the velocity fluctuations at the pressure node and thereby weakening the resonant condition.
Supersonic Turbojet Noise Reduction
Authors: Munday David , Cuppoletti Dan , Perrino Michael , Gutmark Ephraim , Burak Markus O. , Eriksson Lars-Erik
Published: July 2013

Observations and Large Eddy Simulations are presented of a supersonic jet from a nozzle representative of high-performance military aircraft such as the Saab Gripen. The nozzle has a design Mach number of 1.56 and is examined at its design condition with a surrounding secondary flow at Mach numbers of 0.0, 0.1 and 0.3. The nozzle is investigated in its unmodified state and also with the addition of chevrons and microjets. Detailed flow-field velocity measurements of the jets and far-field noise measurements are presented and the noise results are scaled to represent the effects of the chevrons and microjets on airport neighbors. Chevrons and internal fluidic injection by microjets each reduce the noise generated by the main jet. And substantially reduce the noise footprint around the airport. The numerical simulation technique, correctly predicts the flow and noise not only the baseline case, but also the noise reduction by both chevrons and microjects.
Broadband Noise Predictions from Uninstalled Contra-Rotating Open Rotors
Authors: Blandeau Vincent P. , Joseph Phillip F. , Kingan Michael J. , Parry Anthony B.
Published: July 2013

This paper presents broadband noise predictions from uninstalled contra-rotating open rotors (CRORs). CRORs are being increasingly investigated as an alternative to single propellers and turbofan engines for power plants on aircraft, since they yield a significant reduction in fuel burn for short-haul flights. However, there is the need to develop schemes by which CROR noise can be predicted and reduced.

Using semi-analytical prediction schemes, the principal broadband noise source mechanisms (rotor trailing edge noise and rotor-rotor interaction noise) are investigated, leading to strategies for their mitigation. For the configuration considered, trailing-edge broadband noise is predicted to be dominant at low rotor loading conditions (typical of cruise and approach) whereas rotor-rotor interaction broadband noise is predicted to be dominant at high rotor loading conditions (typical of take-off). A systematic parameter study is also presented in which the dependence of CROR broadband noise on the rotor-rotor gap, rotor speeds and blade numbers are investigated at constant engine power, torque split and solidity.
Aeroacoustic Effects of High-Lift Wing Slat Track and Cut-Out System
Authors: Wang Xin , Hu Zhiwei , Zhang Xin
Published: July 2013

Effects of the slat track and cut-out on noise propagation were investigated using compact source models for a high-lift wing. Two different geometries of the high-lift devices, with and without the slat track and cut-out, were investigated. Convection effects were also considered with the mean flows obtained from precursor simulations of corresponding high-lift configurations. Major noise sources in the slat cove region were modelled with equivalent compact dipoles placed along the slat trailing edge and cusp. Results show that sound propagation is modified by the add-on components. The acoustic waves are amplified significantly and radiate more energy towards the ground due to the interaction between propagating waves and the slat track and cut-out. Although the cancellation caused by interference of the radiated and reflected waves happens in both of these configurations especially in the downwards direction, it is more prominent once sound waves pass the slat track and cut-out. Wave cancellation is also significant when the wavelength is comparable to the size of the barrier such as the gap between the slat and the main element. It is also noticed that higher frequencies radiate large proportion of energy towards ground for the sources at slat cusp.
Numerical Simulation on the Ventilated Cavitating Flow with High Froude Number
Authors: Xiang M. , Zhang H.W. , Tu J.Y.
Published: July 2013

A numerical scheme based on the homogeneous multiphase model was proposed to model the ventilated cavitating flow by considering interaction between three phases including vapor, ventilated gas and liquid. Due to the difficulty of carrying out ventilated cavitation experiments in high-speed water tunnels, focus was put on predicting the developing process of the cavitating flow with high Froude number. The evolution processes for the ventilated cavity which transited between different gas-leakage mechanisms were successfully captured, obtaining the variation of the cavitation number along with the ventilation rate. Hydrodynamics analysis was carried out for the cavitating body with low and high Froude number respectively, thereby revealing the ventilation rate to optimize the vehicle performance. Based on the numerical results, a theoretical gas-leakage model which was adapted to a wide range of Froude number and various gas-leakage mechanisms was proposed. The model was validated through comparison against experimental data and numerical results. This research provides valuable guidance on the design for ventilated cavitating vehicles.
A Lagrangian Mesh-Free Formalism to Solve the Navier-Stokes Equations in the Collision Process between Multiple Colliding Viscous Drops
Authors: Acevedo-Malavé Alejandro
Published: July 2013

Smoothed Particle Hydrodynamics (SPH) is a Lagrangian mesh-free formalism and has been useful to model continuous fluid. This formalism is employed to resolve the Navier-Stokes equations by replacing the fluid with a set of particles. These particles are interpolation points from which properties of the fluid can be determined. In this study, the SPH method is applied to simulate the multiple hydrodynamics collisions and the formation of clusters of equally sized liquid drops in three-dimensional space. Ranges of value for the collision velocity droplets are chosen, giving rise to different results for the collision: fragmentation and formation of clusters of liquid drops. The velocity vector fields formed inside the drops during the collision process are shown.
Artificial Reefs: A Review
Authors: Lokesha  , Sundar V. , Sannasiraj S.A.
Published: July 2013

A comprehensive literature review on the material characteristics, design of size and shape, application and management of artificial reef has been carried out. Multipurpose Artificial Surfing Reefs (MPASR) are increasingly being adopted for coastal protection because of several advantages associated with them such as coastal protection by reducing the wave energy, recreation of beaches (surfing, fishing, and diving), habitat for marine organisms and increase in socioeconomic prosperity. The most important characteristic is that they are soft barriers. It is concluded that although artificial reefs do have the ability to fulfill many objectives, for which they are meant, their success will depend mainly on the quality of planning and management prior to their implementation.
Risk of Injury Associated with Skeletal Muscle Relaxant Use in Older Adults
Authors: Spence Michele M , Shin Patrick J , Lee Eric A , Gibbs Nancy E
Published: July 2013

BACKGROUND

The use of skeletal muscle relaxants (SMRs) among older adults is associated with sedation and confusion, which may lead to an increased risk of falls and injuries. SMRs continue to be used among older adults, although they are on the Beers list as drugs to avoid in the elderly.

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the relationship between SMR use and subsequent risk of injury.

METHODS

This was a retrospective case-control study of members aged 65 years or older enrolled in an integrated health care system. Cases were defined as patients with a documented injury resulting in either a hospitalization or an emergency department or urgent care visit from January 2009 through December 2010. Cases were matched to controls in a 1:4 ratio by age and sex. Patients had to be enrolled and alive on the date of an injury (index date). SMR exposure for all cases and controls was evaluated within 60 days prior to the index date. Conditional logistic regression adjusted for covariates was performed, with risk estimates presented as odds ratios with 95% confidence intervals.

RESULTS

From a base population of 322,806 older adults, we identified 27,974 cases of injury and 104,303 matched controls. Among the cases, 365 (1.30%) used an SMR; among the controls, 801 (0.77%) used an SMR in the 60 days prior to the index date. After adjustment for demographic and clinical covariates, risk of injury was significantly increased for patients using an SMR compared to no use (OR 1.32, 95% CI 1.16–1.50; p < 0.001). Carisoprodol was associated with an increased risk of injury (OR 1.73, 95% CI 1.04–2.88; p = 0.036), as were methocarbamol (OR 1.42, 95% CI 1.16–1.75; p = 0.001) and cyclobenzaprine (OR 1.22, 95% CI 1.02–1.45; p = 0.029).

CONCLUSIONS

Older adults using SMRs have an increased risk of injury. These findings provide evidence to support current recommendations to avoid the use of SMRs in elderly patients.
Standard Versus Prolonged Doripenem Infusion for Treatment of Gram-Negative Infections
Authors: Hsaiky Lama , Murray Kyle P , Kokoska Lianne , Desai Neha , Cha Raymond
Published: July 2013

BACKGROUND

Doripenem is the most recently introduced carbapenem, with a broad spectrum of antimicrobial activity. Preliminary data indicated that activity is optimized by maximizing the time that serum concentration remains above the minimum inhibitory concentration; however, limited clinical data are available to support this approach.

OBJECTIVE

To compare clinical outcomes before and after implementation of a hospital-wide initiative extending the duration of infusion for doripenem from 1 hour (standard) to 4 hours (prolonged).

METHODS

This retrospective, quasi-experimental study compared clinical outcomes associated with doripenem administered as a 1-hour infusion versus a 4-hour infusion for treatment of suspected or documented infections caused by gram-negative organisms. Outcomes were assessed for the entire cohort, as well as for the subpopulation of patients admitted to the intensive care unit.

RESULTS

Two hundred patients were included; 106 patients received doripenem via standard infusion and 94 patients via prolonged infusion. No significant differences were noted between the treatment groups in clinical success, length of stay, or duration of treatment when the entire cohort was evaluated. In the critically ill subgroup, pneumonia, standard-infusion doripenem, and concomitant bacteremia were independent predictors of clinical failure (adjusted odds ratio [95% CI] 7.8 [2.4–25.6], 5.5 [1.6–18.7], and 7.0 [1.6–31.3], respectively). Additionally, critically ill patients who received doripenem via standard infusion were significantly more likely to experience recurrence of infection or death within 90 days. No significant differences were noted in length of stay or duration of bacteremia.

CONCLUSIONS

The duration of infusion did not significantly impact outcomes when the entire cohort was compared; however, prolonged infusion of doripenem was associated with significantly improved clinical outcomes among critically ill patients. These findings support the use of prolonged infusion of doripenem for critically ill patients.
Medical Applications for Pharmacists Using Mobile Devices
Authors: Aungst Timothy Dy
Published: July 2013

BACKGROUND

Mobile devices (eg, smartphones, tablet computers) have become ubiquitous and subsequently there has been a growth in mobile applications (apps). Concurrently, mobile devices have been integrated into health care practice due to the availability and quality of medical apps. These mobile medical apps offer increased access to clinical references and point-of-care tools. However, there has been little identification of mobile medical apps suitable for the practice of pharmacy.

OBJECTIVE

To address the shortage of recommendations of mobile medical apps for pharmacists in daily practice.

DATA SOURCES

Mobile medical apps were identified via the iTunes and Google Play Stores via the “Medical” app categories and key word searches (eg, drug information, medical calculators). In addition, reviews provided by professional mobile medical app review websites were used to identify apps.

STUDY SELECTION AND DATA EXTRACTION

Mobile medical apps were included if they had been updated in the previous 3 months, were available in the US, used evidence-based information or literature support, had dedicated app support, and demonstrated stability. Exclusion criteria included apps that were not available in English, had advertisement bias, used nonreferenced sources, were available only via an institution-only subscription, and were web-based portals.

DATA SYNTHESIS

Twenty-seven mobile apps were identified and reviewed that involved general pharmacy practice, including apps that involved drug references, clinical references, medical calculators, laboratory references, news and continuing medical education, and productivity.

CONCLUSIONS

Mobile medical apps have a variety of features that are beneficial to pharmacy practice. Individual clinicians should consider several characteristics of these apps to determine which are suitable to incorporate into their daily practice.
p0071/PKP4, a multifunctional protein coordinating cell adhesion with cytoskeletal organization
Authors: Keil René , Schulz Jenny , Hatzfeld Mechthild
Published: July 2013

P0071 is a member of a subfamily of armadillo proteins that also comprises p120-catenin (p120ctn), δ-catenin/NPRAP, ARVCF and the more distantly related plakophilins 1–3. These proteins share a conserved central domain consisting of a series of repeated motifs, the armadillo repeats, which is flanked by more diverse amino- and carboxy-terminal domains. P0071 and the related proteins were first described as components of adherens junctions with a function in clustering and stabilizing cadherins, thereby controlling intercellular adhesion. In addition, these proteins show a cytoplasmic and a nuclear localization. Major progress in understanding their cytoplasmic role has been made in recent years. One common theme appears to be the spatiotemporal control of the small GTPases of the Rho family in various cellular contexts, such as cell adhesion and motility, cell division or neurite outgrowth. In this review article, we focus on the functions of the p0071 protein and its closest relatives in regulating cell adhesion and cytoskeletal organization, which are critically involved in the control of cell polarity. Understanding p0071’s multiple functions requires assigning specific functions to particular binding partners and subcellular compartments. The identification of several new p0071 interacting proteins has promoted our understanding of the complex functions of this protein. Moreover, an initial analysis of its regulation begins to shed light on how these functions are coordinated in a cellular context.
Polyionic and cysteine-containing fusion peptides as versatile protein tags
Authors: Lilie Hauke , Richter Susanne , Bergelt Sabine , Frost Stefan , Gehle Franziska
Published: July 2013

In response to advances in proteomics research and the use of proteins in medical and biotechnological applications, recombinant protein production and the design of specific protein characteristics and functions has become a widely used technology. In this context, protein fusion tags have been developed as indispensable tools for protein expression, purification, and the design of functionalized surfaces or artificially bifunctional proteins. Here we summarize how positively or negatively charged polyionic fusion peptides with or without an additional cysteine can be used as protein tags for protein expression and purification, for matrix-assisted refolding of aggregated protein, and for coupling of proteins either to technologically relevant matrices or to other proteins. In this context we used cysteine-containing polyionic fusion peptides for the design of immunotoxins. In general, polyionic fusion tags can be considered as a multifunctional module in protein technology.
Trade-Off Analysis to Solve a Probabilistic Multi-Objective Problem for Passive Filtering System Planning
Authors: Carpinelli Guido , Ferruzzi Gabriella , Russo Angela
Published: July 2013

In recent years, modern distribution networks have rapidly evolved toward complex systems due to the increasing level of penetration of distributed generation units, storage systems, and information and communication technologies. In this framework, power quality disturbances such as waveform distortions should be minimized to guarantee optimal system behavior. This article formulates the planning problem of passive filtering systems in a multi-convertor electrical distribution system as a probabilistic multi-objective optimization problem whose input random variables are characterized with probability density functions. A heuristic simplified approach including trade-off analysis issues is applied to solve the planning problem with the aim of optimizing several objectives and meeting proper probabilistic equality and inequality constraints. The approach is able to quickly find solutions on the Pareto frontier that can help the decision-maker to select the final planning alternative for practical operation. The proposed approach is applied to a 17-busbar distribution test system to evidence its effectiveness.
Hypoglycemic activity of the Anisopus mannii N. E. Br. methanolic leaf extract in normal and alloxan-induced diabetic mice
Authors: Zaruwa Moses Z. , Manosroi Aranya , Akihisa Toshihiro , Manosroi Worapaka , Rangdaeng Samreung , Manosroi Jiradej
Published: July 2013

The hypoglycemic activities of nine sub-fractions from the methanolic leaf crude extract of Anisopus mannii were investigated in normoglycemic and alloxan-induced diabetic mice. The methanolic sub-fraction M at 400 mg/kg bw showed significantly (p<0.05) high reduction in fasting blood glucose (FBG) at 27.36 and 65.57% in normoglycemic and diabetic mice, respectively. In acute toxicity test, M at 2,000 and 5,000 mg/kg bw showed reduction in blood urea nitrogen and creatinine level, elevations in aspartate transaminase, alanine transaminase and total bilirubin levels, as well as the body weights. The weight-ratios of kidney and liver to the body weight of the mice fed with these doses of M were reduced with no sign of histopathological alteration. The M at 250 mg/kg bw significantly reduced the FBG levels in a postprandial study. The hypoglycemic effect of M was eliminated when co-administered with isosorbide dinitrate or nifedipine indicating the induction of insulin secretion via K+ ATP-dependent channels. The UV/HPLC analysis of M indicated saponin at 7.7 mg/g. This study confirmed the traditional use of A. mannii for diabetes mellitus and the potential for the further development as a novel hypoglycemic drug.
To Grow or Not to Grow: Nutritional Control of Development DuringCaenorhabditis elegansL1 Arrest
Authors: Baugh L Ryan
Published: July 2013

It is widely appreciated that larvae of the nematode Caenorhabditis elegans arrest development by forming dauer larvae in response to multiple unfavorable environmental conditions. C. elegans larvae can also reversibly arrest development earlier, during the first larval stage (L1), in response to starvation. “L1 arrest” (also known as “L1 diapause”) occurs without morphological modification but is accompanied by increased stress resistance. Caloric restriction and periodic fasting can extend adult lifespan, and developmental models are critical to understanding how the animal is buffered from fluctuations in nutrient availability, impacting lifespan. L1 arrest provides an opportunity to study nutritional control of development. Given its relevance to aging, diabetes, obesity and cancer, interest in L1 arrest is increasing, and signaling pathways and gene regulatory mechanisms controlling arrest and recovery have been characterized. Insulin-like signaling is a critical regulator, and it is modified by and acts through microRNAs. DAF-18/PTEN, AMP-activated kinase and fatty acid biosynthesis are also involved. The nervous system, epidermis, and intestine contribute systemically to regulation of arrest, but cell-autonomous signaling likely contributes to regulation in the germline. A relatively small number of genes affecting starvation survival during L1 arrest are known, and many of them also affect adult lifespan, reflecting a common genetic basis ripe for exploration. mRNA expression is well characterized during arrest, recovery, and normal L1 development, providing a metazoan model for nutritional control of gene expression. In particular, post-recruitment regulation of RNA polymerase II is under nutritional control, potentially contributing to a rapid and coordinated response to feeding. The phenomenology of L1 arrest will be reviewed, as well as regulation of developmental arrest and starvation survival by various signaling pathways and gene regulatory mechanisms.
Exegeses on Maximum Genetic Differentiation
Authors: Rousset François
Published: July 2013

A canon of population genetics concerns the properties of FST, a descriptor of spatial genetic structure. Interest for FST arose from Wright’s early insights linking FST to dispersal parameters as well as to his concept of effective population size (e.g., Wright 1938, 1951). Although there is continued interest in this topic, FST also serves in other applications, such as detecting selected markers in natural populations (Beaumont and Nichols 1996) and more often in routine descriptive works. Remarkably, it is the latter use that seems to attract most discussion. Alternative descriptors have been proposed. Conversely, attempts have been made to draw biological inferences from FST properties that do not depend on biological processes. A reconsideration of its properties under biological scenarios underlines the weaknesses of such approaches.
Usefulness of preoperative serum calcitonin in patients with nodular thyroid disease without suspicious history or cytology for medullary thyroid carcinoma
Authors: Rosário Pedro Weslley , Penna Gustavo Cancela , Brandão Kamilla , Souza Bárbara Érika
Published: July 2013

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the usefulness of preoperative serum calcitonin (sCT) in patients with nodular disease without suspicion of medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC) in history or cytology. PATIENTS AND METHODS: sCT was measured before thyroidectomy in 494 patients with nodular disease who had no family history of MTC or multiple endocrine neoplasia type 2, and no cytological suspicion of MTC. RESULTS: Basal sCT was < 10 ng/mL in 482 patients and none of them had MTC. One patient with basal sCT > 100 pg/mL had MTC. Among the 11 patients with basal sCT between 10 and 100 pg/mL, MTC was diagnosed in only one. The two patients with MTC were submitted to total thyroidectomy, combined with elective lymph node dissection indicated exclusively based on hypercalcitoninemia, and sCT was undetectable after six months. CONCLUSIONS: Preoperative sCT is useful for the detection of sporadic MTC in patients with nodular disease, even in the absence of suspicious history or cytology.
Plasmaférese pré-tireoidectomia em paciente com tireotoxicose e hepatotoxicidade por propiltiouracil: relato de caso
Authors: Almeida Ronald Freire de , Comarella Ana Paula , Silveira Márcio Barcelos , Silva Alex Rocha Bernardes da , Casini Alessandra Ferri
Published: July 2013

A tireotoxicose é uma rara síndrome clínica decorrente da exacerbação do hipertireoidismo, de etiologia e fatores desencadeantes diversos. A abordagem terapêutica pode ser realizada por meio de medicamentos para bloqueio da síntese, secreção e/ou inibição da ação periférica hormonal, além de terapia dirigida aos fatores desencadeantes. Entretanto, em casos refratários, a plasmaférese surge como importante opção de tratamento. Relatamos o caso de um paciente com doença de Graves, internado com quadro de hepatotoxicidade grave por propiltiouracil, que evoluiu com tireotoxicose, sendo indicada plasmaférese para rápida redução dos hormônios tireoidianos, em preparo para a tireoidectomia total.
Doença de Chagas: correlação sorológica e eletrocardiográfica em grupo de indivíduos idosos[ign]
Authors: Almeida Netto Joaquim Caetano de , Mello Javan Valle de , Barbosa William
Published: July 2013

Os autores apresentam estudo sorológico e eletrocardiográfico em 100 indivíduos idosos residentes desde a infância, 95 por cento, ou desde a juventude, 5 por cento, em região endêmica para Doença de Chagas, situados entre a sexta e a décima décadas, pertencendo a maioria, 60 por cento, às sétima e oitava décadas de vida. A reação de Fixação de Complemento segundo a técnica de FULTON e ALMEIDA foi positiva em 31 por cento da amostra. A análise geral dos eletrocardiogramas mostrou alterações em 77 por cento dos casos assim distribuídos: alterações de formação do estímulo em 27 por cento; alterações da condução em 27 por cento; alterações primárias da repolarização ventricular em 36 por cento; alterações sugestivas de fibrose ou necrose em 15 por cento; sobrecarga de cavidades em 31 por cento; baixa voltagem do QRS em 6 por cento e outras alterações em 15 por cento. Comparativamente nos grupos com RFC positiva e negativa foi constatada uma nítida prevalência da alteração da condução do estímulo no primeiro grupo (48,6 por cento e 17,4 por cento, respectivmente). Não houve diferença nítida na incidência dos demais tipos de alterações nos dois grupos. O BCRD, principalmente com SAQRS desviado para a esquerda, foi a alteração da condução do estimulo mais freqüente no grupo com RFC positiva seguido pelo BAV de primeiro grau. A análise dos resultados obtidos é muito sugestiva da presença de cardiopatia chagásica crônica neste grupo etário, fato que ilustraria o caráter de benignidade com que pode evoluir a cardiopatia em pauta. Por outro lado, a prevalência do BCRD sôbre outras alterações também comuns na cardiopatia chagásica crônica como extrassístoles ventricular, bloqueio aurículo ventriculares do segundo e terceiro graus, ilustra o caráter de benignidade desta alteração quando ocorre isoladamente.
Tratamento da leishmaniose tegumentar americana pelo niridazol
Authors: Baranski Miroslau Constante
Published: July 2013

Foi empregue o niridazol um derivado do nitrotiazol, em doze pacientes com leishmaniose tegumentar americana. Em todos êles, o diagnóstico clínico da doença foi confirmado pela biópsia das lesões e em oito dêles também pela positividade da intradetermorreação de Montenegro. Oito pacientes tinham lesões mucosas metastáticas em atividade e lesões cutâneas iniciais cicatrizadas há tempo mais ou menos longo. Dois apresentavam concomitância de lesões cutâneas e mucosas em atividade, e dois tinham lesões cutâneas exclusivas. A duração da doença variou de 2 meses a 32 anos. A posologia diária do niridazol foi uniformememente de 25 mg/kg de pêso corpóreo. O medicamento foi administrado por via oral, em duas tomadas diárias, sempre com o doente internado em hospital. Quando a tolerância o permitia, o paciente recebia cinco séries de tratamento de 10 dias de duração cada, intercaladas por períodos áe suspensão da droga de 10 dias entre uma série e outra. Isso foi possível em 10 dos 12 pacientes. O tratamento foi bem tolerado em 5 doentes e de tolerância regular em 4. Mal tolerado em um paciente pela ocorrência de alucinações e excitação mental e interrompido pela péssima tolerância em dois doentes devido ao aparecimento de convulsões generalizadas com perda da consciência. O tratamento acompanhou-se de grande incidência, de efeitos colaterais. A ocorrência de para-efeitos mais intensos não foi devida às más condições hepáticas. Provas de função hepática. hemogramas, estudos bioquímicos do sangue e exames de urina, realizados antes, durante e após o tratamento, não revelaram alterações significativas. Biópsias hepáticas por punção com agulha em dez doentes, prévias e posteriores ao tratamento, não detectaram lesões hepáticas que pudessem ser atribuídas à medicação. O seguimento dos doentes prolongou-se pelo prazo de dois a 36 meses apos o tratamento. Alterações eletrocardiográficas foram detectadas em sete de oito doentes que não tinham cardiopatias concomitantes (87,5% dos casos), mas não se acompanharam de clínica relacionada com o aparelho cardiovascular. Alterações eletroencefalográficas foram observadas em 3 de 9 doentes que foram submetidos a exames seriados. O autor ficou decepcionado com os maus resultados terapêuticos. A droga curou as lesões cutâneas de dois dentre três doentes nos quais puderam ser completadas as cinco séries de tratamento. A temporária e aparente melhora das lesões mucosas seguiu-se sempre da sua recidiva, após o término do tratamento em todos os pacientes com lesões mucosas. O autor conclui que o niridazol não é medicamento eficaz na terapêutica da leishmaniose tegumentar americana com lesões mucosas metastáticas tardias localizadas no nariz, boca e/ou faringe. O autor aconselha vigilância dos doentes durante o tratamento devido à possibilidade do aparecimento de manifestações neuropsíquicas.
Resposta imunológica em caprinos vacinados contra agalaxia contagiosa
Authors: Alcântara Maria Dalva B. , Campos Ana Claudia , Melo Marcia A. , Pereira Filho José M. , Nascimento Elmiro R. , Farias Aderaldo A. , Sousa Dalana R.M. , Azevedo Edisio O.
Published: July 2013

Este trabalho teve como objetivo avaliar a eficiência de duas vacinas inativadas contra agalaxia contagiosa contendo adjuvante oleoso e aquoso. Para tanto, foram utilizados 73 caprinos, agrupados em dois experimentos. No experimento I, para avaliar a inocuidade das vacinas, foram utilizados 15 caprinos, subdivididos em três grupos de cinco animais cada, sendo que o grupo A1 foi imunizado com a vacina aquosa, o grupo B1 com a vacina oleosa e o grupo C não imunizado, foi o controle. No experimento II, para avaliar a resposta imune foram utilizados 58 caprinos, subdivididos em dois grupos, sendo o grupo A2, com 28 animais imunizados com a vacina aquosa e o grupo B2, com 30 animais imunizados com a vacina oleosa. Os animais do experimento II receberam uma terceira dose, 180 dias após a segunda dose vacinal. Os níveis de anticorpos foram determinados por ELISA indireto, realizado no dia de cada vacinação e 30 dias após a segunda dose (experimento I) e 30 dias após a terceira dose vacinal (experimento II). Os animais do grupo B1 e B2 (vacina oleosa) apresentaram níveis de anticorpos estatisticamente superiores (P<0,05) quando comparados aos dos grupos A1 e A2 (vacina aquosa) nos dois experimentos.
Soroprevalência e fatores associados à infecção por Toxoplasma gondii em caprinos de propriedades rurais do município de Mossoró, RN
Authors: Nunes Francisco V.A. , Vaez Juliana R. , Pinheiro Raymundo R. , Cavalcante Antonio C.R. , Vitor Ricardo W.A. , Ahid Silvia M.M.
Published: July 2013

O município de Mossoró/RN, no Nordeste do Brasil, tem como destaque a criação de caprinos. A toxoplasmose é uma zoonose que é mais patogênico para os caprinos do que para os demais animais de abate. Em caprinos, o protozoário frequentemente é responsável por problemas reprodutivos e perdas econômicas. Com o objetivo de identificar a soroprevalência e os fatores de risco da toxoplasmose em caprinos de propriedades rurais do Município de Mossoró, amostras de soro de 338 animais (320 fêmeas e 18 machos) de 15 unidades produtoras foram testados pelo Ensaio Imunoenzimático (ELISA). Das 15 propriedades, 14 apresentaram animais soropositivos para toxoplasmose, e nestas o total de animais positivos foram de 125 (123 fêmeas e 2 machos), obtendo uma prevalência de 37,0%. Houve uma relação significativa (p<0,05) entre a prevalência e o sexo, e entre a prevalência e raça dos animais. As chances de ocorrer (OR) mais importantes associados à infecção por Toxoplasma gondii foram: fonte de água (OR=2,635), vasilhames para a água dos animais localizado fora das instalações da propriedade (OR=3,121) e a exploração do tipo leiteira (OR=2,546). Pela análise do ELISA de avidez, foram encontradas fêmeas em idade reprodutiva na fase aguda da infecção.
Histopathology of dairy cows' hooves with signs of naturally acquired laminitis
Authors: Mendes Heloisa M.F. , Casagrande Fernando P. , Lima Ingrid R. , Souza Cairo H. , Gontijo Lílian D'. , Alves Geraldo E.S. , Vasconcelos Anilton C. , Faleiros Rafael R.
Published: July 2013

The purpose of this study was to investigate histological changes in dairy cows' hooves with or without injuries from naturally acquired laminitis. Cull cows with no clinical signs of hoof abnormalities (G1, n=9) and those with macroscopic lesions associated with laminitis without (G2, n=23) or with lameness (G3, n=7) were used in the study. After slaughter, samples of dermo-epidermal junctions of sole, axial and dorsal regions of the hoof were obtained and histologically processed using HE and PAS staining. Congestion, hemorrhage and inflammatory infiltrate in the dermis of sole, axial and dorsal regions were blindly and semiquantitatively evaluated by the same researcher. Inflammatory infiltrate was evaluated in the dermal laminae of axial and dorsal regions. The morphology of epidermal cells and the presence of irregularities in three regions of the basement membrane (BM) length were examined using PAS staining. Scores of lesions in different regions of the hoof in the same group and in different groups for each region of the hoof were compared using non-parametric analyses. Inflammatory infiltrate in the dermis of all regions of the hoof was detected in all groups with no significant statistical difference. Cows with no clinical signs of hoof abnormalities secondary to laminitis (G1) have inflammation scores and epidermal cell changes similar to those of groups with laminitis injuries, suggesting the existence of a prodromal phase for this disease in bovines. BM had irregularities with a variable intensity along its length, however, with no difference among groups. The pattern of BM irregularities found has not been reported so far and does not resemble the BM collapse described in horses and cattle with induced acute laminitis. Is it concluded that even in the absence of macroscopic hoof signs associated to laminitis, dairy cows have histological injuries compatible with inflammation of the dermo-epidermal junction as in affected animals. Basement membrane of cows with or without laminitis associated lesions had irregularities with an irregular distribution along its length which need to be further studied.
Qualidade do leite: utopia sem um programa sério de monitoramento da ocorrência de mastite bovina
Authors: Langoni Helio
Published: July 2013

As mastites continuam sendo um dos principais problemas a onerar a pecuária leiteira, além dos aspectos de saúde pública, considerando-se a veiculação de patógenos causadores de doença em humanos. Sua múltipla etiologia, com o envolvimento de inúmeros patógenos, requer um programa de controle rigoroso para o seu monitoramento e controle de qualidade do leite, pautado em ações diagnósticas e de vigilância epidemiológica com relação a parâmetros que indiretamente associam-se à ocorrência de mastites nos rebanhos, como California Mastitis Test (CMT) e Contagem de Células Somáticas (CCS/mL de leite), de amostras de leite individuais composta de cada vaca, bem como do tanque de expansão, o que permite ainda o monitoramento da Contagem Bacteriana Total (CBT), que tende a se relacionar com a ocorrência de mastites, principalmente subclínicas. Destacam-se ainda aspectos de exame microbiológico do leite e da importância da ordenha como ponto crucial nas mastites, enfatizando aspectos relevantes do processo de ordenha com fatores de risco para a ocorrência das mastites. Baseando-se nestes aspectos, apresenta-se esta revisão, acreditando-se na possibilidade de obtenção de produtos lácteos de melhor qualidade, com o comprometimento de todos os envolvidos na cadeia produtiva do leite, conscientes de que a qualidade do leite depende de todos, valendo-se também os consumidores, que são os elementos finais da cadeia produtiva do leite.
Ver e dizer - Ensaio sobre o gênero biográfico em Varnhagen
Authors: Cezar Temístocles , Santos Evandro
Published: July 2013

O artigo pretende examinar a participação de inserções com características biográficas no texto da principal obra do historiador oitocentista Francisco Adolfo de Varnhagen (1816-1878), a História geral do Brazil, editada em dois volumes, nos anos de 1854 e 1857. O foco se direciona ao primeiro tomo da obra, recorte privilegiado à investigação da incorporação de pesquisas e publicações prévias de Varnhagen e de seu interesse particular por alguns personagens do passado colonial do Brasil. A hipótese levantada é a de que as considerações biográficas demarcadas evidenciam importantes aspectos heurísticos e narrativos da produção de Varnhagen.
O Herói Virtuoso, Prudente e Dissimulado: O Cortesão como Ideal Masculino nas Cortes Ibéricas dos séculos XVI e XVII
Authors: Silva Kalina Vanderlei
Published: July 2013

Neste artigo, buscamos traçar um perfil do cortesão barroco como personagem que refletia o ideal masculino da nobreza em Espanha e Portugal dos séculos XVI e XVII: homem que deveria ser discreto, prudente, valoroso, honrado e, não menos, dissimulado. E, para reconstruir essa imagem, baseamos-nos em diferentes textos impressos e manuscritos do período, produzidos por cortesãos e tratadistas segundo fórmulas da literatura doutrinária, focando-se principalmente El Héroe, de Baltasar Gracián, a Instrucción, de D. Juan de Silva, e as Memorias Diarias de la Guerra del Brasil, de Duarte de Albuquerque Coelho.