bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Tradução e adaptação cultural para o português do Brasil do western ontario shoulder instability index (WOSI)
Authors: Barbosa Gisele , Leme Lígia , Saccol Michele F. , Pocchini Alberto , Ejnisman Benno , Griffin Sharon
Published: May 2012

INTRODUÇÃO: A instabilidade no ombro é um problema comum que afeta pacientes, mais frequentemente, na segunda e terceira décadas de vida e atletas que participam de esportes de arremesso ou de contato. Entre suas consequências estão dor, decréscimo no nível de atividade e um decréscimo geral na qualidade de vida. Muitos tratamentos têm sido propostos para os diversos tipos de instabilidade; entretanto, existem poucos instrumentos de avaliação que comprovem sua eficácia. Para utilização de medidas de avaliação em saúde desenvolvidas e utilizadas em outro idioma é necessário realizar a equivalência transcultural, sendo desnecessário criar e validar outro instrumento que avalie a condição de interesse. O objetivo deste estudo foi realizar a tradução e a adaptação cultural do questionário WOSI (The Western Ontario Shoulder Instability Index) para a língua portuguesa do Brasil. MATERIAIS E MÉTODOS: O protocolo aplicado consistiu em: 1) preparação, 2) tradução, 3) tradução de volta à língua original (retrotradução), 4) interrogatório cognitivo, e 5) relato de informações. Ao serem concluídas as etapas de tradução e retrotradução, as versões foram enviadas para os autores do WOSI original, que aprovaram para continuação do estudo. A versão em português foi aplicada em 35 pacientes com instabilidade no ombro para verificar o nível de compreensão do instrumento. A versão brasileira final do WOSI foi definida após conseguir menos que 15% de "não compreensão" em cada item. Para análise das variáveis, foi utilizada estatística descritiva. RESULTADOS: Para obter a equivalência cultural foram realizadas modificações e alterações de termos sugeridas pelos pacientes para os itens "não compreendidos". CONCLUSÃO: Após a tradução e adaptação cultural do questionário, a versão em português do WOSI foi concluída.
Resposta da frequência cardíaca durante sessão de treinamento de karatê
Authors: Milanez Vinicius Flavio , Dantas José Luiz , Christofaro Diego Giulliano Destro , Fernandes Rômulo Araújo
Published: May 2012

A prática do karatê pode promover adaptações benéficas sobre os componentes da aptidão física relacionada com a saúde. Dentre esses componentes, o consumo máximo de oxigênio (VO2max) é um importante indicador de aptidão cardiorrespiratória, como também forte preditor de risco de morte por doença cardiovascular. Estudos anteriores avaliaram as respostas da Frequência Cardíaca na modalidade de karatê durante protocolos elaborados pelos pesquisadores que simularam o treinamento. No entanto, esses resultados devem ser interpretados com cautela, uma vez que protocolos podem comprometer a validade ecológica do comportamento da FC. Dessa forma, o objetivo deste estudo foi, através do monitoramento da FC, investigar a distribuição da intensidade durante uma sessão de treinamento de karatê (ST) com a validade ecológica preservada. Nove atletas (M (DP) = 22 (5,2) anos; 60,3 (12,9) kg; 170,0 (0,10) cm; 11,6 (5,7) % gordura) realizaram teste incremental máximo (T I) e uma ST, com monitoramento contínuo da FC, distribuída posteriormente conforme método proposto por Edwards. O tempo médio de duração da ST foi de 91,3 (11,9) minutos (IC95% = 82,0 - 100,5). Os valores de FC média e máxima da ST foram equivalentes a 72% (IC95% = 66-78%) e 94% (IC95% = 89-99%) da FC máxima alcançada durante T I (FCmax), respectivamente. Durante 79,9% (IC95% = 65,7-94,1%) do tempo total da ST, os karatecas permaneceram em uma intensidade superior a 60% da FCmax. Deste modo, conclui-se que a intensidade da ST de karatê atende às recomendações do ACSM com relação à intensidade, duração e frequência semanal, apresentando-se como uma interessante alternativa de exercícios físicos para promoção da aptidão cardiorrespiratória.
Perfil morfológico de atletas de elite de Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu
Authors: Andreato Leonardo Vidal , Franchini Emerson , Moraes Solange Marta Franzói de , Esteves João Victor Del Conti , Pastório Juliana Jacques , Andreato Thaís Vidal , Gomes Tricy Lopes de Moraes , Vieira José Luiz Lopes
Published: May 2012

Atletas de diversas modalidades esportivas categorizadas pela massa corporal a reduzem para se enquadrarem em categorias inferiores. Essas reduções podem comprometer o desempenho e a saúde dos atletas. Para a determinação da categoria mais adequada é de suma importância o conhecimento da composição corporal, para que se evite a redução excessiva. Desta forma, o presente estudo buscou analisar o perfil morfológico de atletas de elite de Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. A amostra constitui-se de 11 atletas com 25,8 ± 3,3 anos, medalhistas em competições de nível nacional e/ou internacional. Realizou-se análise antropométrica para determinação de composição corporal e somatotipo. Observou-se percentual de gordura (10,3 ± 2,6%) dentro das indicações para esta população, alto percentual de massa muscular (61,3 ± 1,5%), assim como componente mesomórfico predominante (5,5 ± 1,0). Os pontos de maior e menor acúmulo de gordura foram as regiões abdominal (15,7 ± 6,3mm) e peitoral (6,8 ± 1,5mm), respectivamente. Conclui-se que atletas desta modalidade em período preparatório apresentam peso superior ao peso competitivo (4,4 ± 2,4%), embora apresentem níveis de massa gorda dentro das recomendações, alto percentual de massa muscular e componente mesomórfico predominante.
Financial frictions and substitution between internal and external funds in publicly traded Brazilian companies
Authors: Portal Márcio Telles , Zani João , Silva Carlos Eduardo Schönerwald da
Published: May 2012

The present study aimed to document the effects of financial constraints on the negative relationship between cash flow and external funds, a phenomenon associated with the Pecking Order Theory. This theory suggests that companies subject to more expensive external funds (financially constrained firms) should demonstrate a stronger negative relationship with cash flow than companies subject to minor financial frictions (financially unconstrained firms). The results indicate that the external funds of constrained firms consistently present less negative sensitivity to cash flow compared with those of unconstrained companies. Additionally, the internal funds of constrained companies demonstrate a positive sensitivity to cash flow, whereas those of unconstrained companies do not show any such significant behavior. These results are in accordance with the findings of Almeida and Campello (2010), who suggest the following: first, because of the endogenous nature of investment decisions in constrained companies, the complementary relationship between internal and external funds prevails over the substitutive effects suggested by the Pecking Order Theory; and second, the negative relationship between cash flow and external funds cannot be interpreted as evidence of costly external funds and therefore does not corroborate the Pecking Order Theory.
Accounting choices in Brazil: identifying the characteristics of publicly traded companies that opted to maintain versus derecognise deferred assets
Authors: Lorencini Fernando Drago , Costa Fábio Moraes da
Published: May 2012

The issuance of Brazilian Law 11.638/2007 is a critical step in the convergence of the Brazilian Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAPs) towards International Financial Reporting Standards. After the law was implemented and later modified by Provisional Executive Order 449/2008 (converted into Law 11.941/2009), certain accounting choices were allowed during the transition period. The Brazilian GAAPs allowed for restructuring costs and costs related to opening a new facility to be recognised as assets. As a transitional provision, companies were allowed to choose between maintaining or eliminating these values. In this paper, we attempted to identify which company characteristics were associated with this accounting choice. The final sample consisted of Brazilian companies listed on the BM & FBOVESPA, and a logistic regression identified two characteristics. Participation in one of the three different corporate governance levels of the BM & FBOVESPA was associated with the choice to derecognise the deferred assets, while companies decided to maintain the deferred asset if it was relatively large. The empirical evidence reported here contributes to the literature by explaining the manner in which a set of firm characteristics is related to a firm's accounting choices.
Implante de filtro de veia cava com uso de dióxido de carbono como meio de contraste: série de casos
Authors: Rezende Matheus Pessanha de , Massière Bernardo , Ristow Arno von , Vescovi Alberto , Duarte Alexandre A. , Drummond Daniel A. , Stambovsky Leonardo , Medina Antonio Luiz de
Published: May 2012

OBJETIVO: Avaliar o resultado do implante de filtro em veia cava inferior empregando angiografia digital por subtração com dioxide de carbono (CO2) como meio de contraste. MÉTODOS: No período de abril de 2010 a fevereiro de 2011, sete pacientes foram submetidos ao implante de filtro na veia cava inferior, utilizando-se CO2 como meio de contraste em subtração digital. Os pacientes apresentaram como critério de inclusão trombose venosa profunda no setor ilíaco-femoral e contraindicação à anticoagulação. RESULTADOS: Foi obtido sucesso técnico em todos os casos, com adequada visualização da veia cava e veias renais, não havendo complicações relacionadas ao uso do CO2 ou ao procedimento. CONCLUSÃO: O implante de filtro de veia cava utilizando o CO2 como meio de contraste é segura e efetiva em pacientes portadores de alergia ao contraste iodado ou com insuficiência renal não dialítica.
Vascularização temporária de membros isquêmicos por meio de shunt arteriomedular: trabalho experimental
Authors: Poerschke Ronaldo André , Silveira Daniela Augustin , Lodi Peterson , Titton Wagner , Marx Guilherme , Lampert Alexandre Soares
Published: May 2012

CONTEXTO: Os autores idealizaram um shunt temporário entre a artéria femoral e o canal medular de ossos longos para manter a viabilidade dos membros agudamente isquêmicos, enquanto não é possível estabelecer um tratamento definitivo. OBJETIVO: Avaliar a perviedade de shunts temporários arteriomedulares e a perfusão dos membros, durante duas horas em cães de experimentação, que tiveram a artéria femoral ligada. MÉTODOS: Alocaram-se aleatoriamente dois grupos, com três cães no Grupo Controle e seis no Grupo Intervenção. Os controles tiveram a artéria femoral comum direita ligada. O Grupo Intervenção, além da ligadura da artéria, recebeu um shunt. Após duas horas, realizou-se a medida de pH dos membros isquêmicos; avaliação do fluxo arterial por meio de um sonar Doppler; avaliação da coloração do sangramento na extremidade distal do membro e foram retirados em bloco torácico os pulmões para análise anatomopatológica. RESULTADOS: A média do pH do sangue capilar das extremidades do membros no Grupo Controle foi de 6,97 (±0,39); no Grupo Intervenção o pH foi de 7,25 (±0,46), com p<0,001; a coloração do sangue no Grupo Intervenção manteve-se com aspecto rutilante em todos os animais. Os shunts necessitaram, em média, três irrigações com solução salina heparinada para manterem-se pérvios. A avaliação macroscópica e microscópica do tecido pulmonar não evidenciou embolia gordurosa. CONCLUSÃO: O shunt arterio-osteal ou arteriomedular apresentou viabilidade técnica em laboratório.
Effects of superplasticiser on rheology and cohesiveness of CSF cement paste
Authors: Kwan Albert K. H. , Chen Jia-Jian , Fung Wilson W. S.
Published: May 2012

Superplasticiser (SP) is now an indispensable ingredient for the production of concrete. However, its proper use is a great concern because its over-dosage could lead to drastic reduction in the cohesiveness of concrete. Furthermore, experience has indicated that the SP demand, saturation dosage and dosage causing segregation are highly dependent on the powder content and therefore the effects of SP are not simple functions of dosage. This study aims to evaluate the effects of SP dosage on the fresh properties of cement paste containing condensed silica fume (CSF). A number of cement paste samples with different SP dosages and CSF contents were tested. The results showed that the addition of SP would improve the packing density, flowability and rheology but impair the cohesiveness of cement paste. It would also render the cement paste shear thickening. To cater for the effects of powder fineness, it is proposed that the SP dosage should be measured in terms of the quantity of SP per surface area of the powder content.
Influence of barium oxide on the composition and performance of alite-rich Portland cement
Authors: Guo Xiangyang , Wang Shoude , Lu Lingchao , Wang Hui
Published: May 2012

The clinker composition and performance of alite-rich Portland cement with different contents of barium oxide and calcium barium sulfoaluminate (abbr. C2·75B1·25A3S¯) were investigated by orthogonal testing. The results show that alite and C2·75B1·25A3S¯ mineral can coexist in a clinker system. The addition of barium oxide is of benefit to increase the content of C2·75B1·25A3S¯, and it can also activate the belite and promote the formation of alite at low temperature. The optimal silica modulus, iron modulus, lime saturation factor and content of C2·75B1·25A3S¯ are 2·3, 1·4, 0·94 and 4% respectively, and the proper content of barium oxide is 1·8%(by weight). The compressive strength of this cement prepared under these conditions reaches 52·3, 78·4 and 106·5 MPa at 3-day, 7-day and 28-day curing ages, which shows excellent performance of mechanical strength. The compositions, structures and performances of the clinker were analysed by means of X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy–energy dispersive spectroscopy and metallographic microscope.
Piezoelectric cement composite for structural health monitoring
Authors: Ramam Koduri , Chandramouli K.
Published: May 2012

This study focuses on the design and development of perovskite (lead magnesium niobate, PMN, lead zirconium titante, PZT), tungsten bronze structured (lead barium bismuth niobate, PBBN) and OPC (ordinary Portland cement) abbreviated as x(0·5(PMN–PZT)–0·5PBBN)–(1−x)OPC, composite for non-destructive testing purposes. A new piezoelectric material was developed with a combination of perovskite, tungsten bronze and cement fabricated in situ through a solid state reaction method. The phase formation, microstructural, dielectric and electromechanical properties of a ceramic–cement composite were investigated. Powder X-ray diffraction patterns revealed in situ coexistence of distinct structures viz. perovskite and tungsten bronze phases in the ceramic–cement composite, which enhanced the polarisation owing to enhanced cationic concentration and their mutual interaction. The scanning electron micrographs confirmed the homogeneity between the cement and ceramic content. The room temperature dielectric constant and piezoelectric charge coefficient were optimum in PMN–PZT–PBBiN–OPC–3 in the series. The newly developed composite x(0·5(PMN–PZT)–0·5PBBN)–(1−x)OPC system can be integrated in civil engineering by means of structural health monitoring and non-destructive testing of structures.
Artificial intelligence model for rheological properties of oil well cement slurries incorporating SCMs
Authors: Shahriar Anjuman , Nehdi Moncef L.
Published: May 2012

In this study, an artificial intelligence model has been developed to predict the rheological properties of oil well cement (OWC) slurries incorporating supplementary cementitious materials (SCM) such as metakaolin (MK), silica fume (SF), rice husk ash (RHA) or fly ash (FA). An experimental study has been carried out to create the database used for training the model. OWC slurries having a water-to-binder ratio of 0·44 along with a new-generation, polycarboxylate-based, high-range water-reducing admixture (PCH) were prepared. They had 5 to 15% partial replacement of API class-G OWC by MK, SF, RHA or FA. The rheological properties of the slurries were investigated at different temperatures in the range 23 to 60°C using an advanced shear-stress/shear-strain controlled rheometer. Experimental data thus obtained were used to develop a predictive model based on feed-forward back-propagation artificial neural networks. The developed model could effectively predict the effect of key variables such as temperature, dosage of SCM and dosage of PCH on the rheological properties of OWC slurries with an absolute error of less than 7%. The developed model could also effectively predict the rheological properties of new slurries designed within the range of input parameters of the experimental database used in the training process.
Limit loads for a shallow anchor/trapdoor embedded in a non-associative Coulomb soil
Authors: SMITH C.C.
Published: May 2012

A theoretical methodology for determining the range of possible plane-strain limit loads acting on an anchor or trapdoor buried within a non-associative Coulomb soil is presented. Solutions are given for shallow anchors and trapdoors underlying both weightless soil with surface load and soil possessing self-weight with no surface load. A method for determining limit loads for combined scenarios is additionally outlined. Solutions are shown to correlate favourably with experimental and finite-element data in the literature.
Diabetes Differentially Affects Depression and Self-Rated Health by Age in the U.S.
Authors: Wexler Deborah J. , Porneala Bianca , Chang Yuchiao , Huang Elbert S. , Huffman Jeff C. , Grant Richard W.
Published: May 2012

OBJECTIVE

To determine whether the relationship between age and physical and mental health varies by diabetes status in older U.S. adults.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

Using data from the National Social Life, Health, and Aging Project, a national sample of 3,005 adults aged 57–85 years, we tested the significance of the interaction between age and diabetes in association with health states.

RESULTS

Respondents with diabetes in the youngest age cohort had more medical conditions than those without diabetes, a difference that narrowed with age (P for interaction <0.01). The youngest cohort with diabetes had a higher rate of depression compared to those without diabetes (14 vs. 8%). Depression declined with age and did not differ by diabetes status in the oldest respondents (P = 0.01 for age-diabetes interaction).

CONCLUSIONS

Diabetes differentially affects self-rated overall health and depression by age, with convergence in the oldest age-group with and without diabetes.
Insights Into the Pathogenicity of Rare Missense GCK Variants From the Identification and Functional Characterization of Compound Heterozygous and Double Mutations Inherited in Cis
Authors: Beer Nicola L. , Osbak Kara K. , van de Bunt Martijn , Tribble Nicholas D. , Steele Anna M. , Wensley Kirsty J. , Edghill Emma L. , Colcough Kevin , Barrett Amy , Valentínová Lucia , Rundle Jana K. , Raimondo Anne , Grimsby Joseph , Ellard Sian , Gloyn Anna L.
Published: May 2012

OBJECTIVE

To demonstrate the importance of using a combined genetic and functional approach to correctly interpret a genetic test for monogenic diabetes.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

We identified three probands with a phenotype consistent with maturity-onset diabetes of the young (MODY) subtype GCK-MODY, in whom two potential pathogenic mutations were identified: [R43H/G68D], [E248 K/I225M], or [G261R/D217N]. Allele-specific PCR and cosegregation were used to determine phase. Single and double mutations were kinetically characterized.

RESULTS

The mutations occurred in cis (double mutants) in two probands and in trans in one proband. Functional studies of all double mutants revealed inactivating kinetics. The previously reported GCK-MODY mutations R43H and G68D were inherited from an affected father and unaffected mother, respectively. Both our functional and genetic studies support R43H as the cause of GCK-MODY and G68D as a neutral rare variant.

CONCLUSIONS

These data highlight the need for family/functional studies, even for previously reported pathogenic mutations.
Comparison of viscosities from the Chapman-Enskog and relaxation time methods
Authors: Wiranata Anton , Prakash Madappa , Chakraborty Purnendu
Published: May 2012

A quantitative comparison between the results of shear viscosities from the Chapman-Enskog and relaxation time methods is performed for selected test cases with specified elastic differential cross sections: (i) the non-relativistic, relativistic and ultra-relativistic hard sphere gas with angle and energy independent differntial cross section, (ii) the Maxwell gas, (iii) chiral pions and (iv) massive pions. Our quantitative results reveal that the extent of agreement (or disagreement) depends very sensitively on the energy dependence of the differential cross sections employed.
Synergistic effects of amyloid peptides and lead on human neuroblastoma cells
Authors: Suresh Challa , Johnson Johnny , Mohan Roshini , Chetty Chellu
Published: May 2012

Aggregated amyloid peptides (AP), major components of senile plaques, have been considered to play a very important and crucial role in the development and neuro-pathogenesis of Alzheimer’s disease (AD). In the present in vitro, study the synergistic effects of Pb2+, a heavy metal, and AP on the human neuroblastoma SH-SY5Y cells were investigated. The cells treated with Pb2+ (0.01–10 μM) alone exhibited a significant decrease in viability and IC50 was 5 μM. A similar decrease in viability was also observed when the cells were exposed to AP, Aβ1–40 (20–120 μM) and Aβ25-35 (2.5–15 μM) for 48 hrs. The IC50 values were 60 μM and 7.5 μM for Aβ1–40 and Aβ25–35 respectively. To assess the synergistic effects the cells were exposed to IC50 of both AP and Pb2+, which resulted in further reduction of the viability. The study was extended to determine the lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) release to assess the cytotoxic effects, 8-isoprostane for extent of oxidative damage, COX 1 and 2 for inflammation related changes, p53 protein for DNA damage and protein kinases A and C for signal transduction. The data suggest that the toxic effects of AP were most potent in the presence of Pb2+, resulting in an aggravated clinical pathological condition. This could be attributed to the oxidative stress, inflammation neuronal apoptosis and an alteration in the activities of the signaling enzymes.
Measurement of elastic constants of nematic liquid crystals with use of hybrid in-plane-switched cell
Authors: Nowinowski-Kruszelnicki E. , Kędzierski J. , Raszewski Z. , Jaroszewicz L. , Kojdecki M. , Piecek W. , Perkowski P. , Olifierczuk M. , Miszczyk E. , Ogrodnik K. , Morawiak P.
Published: May 2012

A new method for quick and pretty accurate measurements of splay, twist and bend elastic constants of nematic liquid crystals is experimentally verified. The main concept relies on exploiting only the electric field and determining magnitudes of nematic elastic constants from threshold fields for Freedericksz transitions in only one hybrid in-plane-switched cell. In such cell the deformations of an investigated liquid crystal are controlled by three separated pairs of electrodes confining measurement domains. In two of them inter-digital electrodes are mounted on one cell cover. Splay, twist and bend elastic constants can be measured by a proper choice of electrodes’ configuration together with orienting cover coatings (without applying magnetic fields). In this paper, we describe layout of our cells and results of experimental tests by using different liquid crystals: 5CB and 6CHBT (with positive dielectric anisotropy), Demus’ esters (with negative dielectric anisotropy) and new liquid crystals mixtures produced in our university.
Selective Wet-Etching of Amorphous/Crystallized Sb-Se Thin Films
Authors: Shiman O. , Gerbreders V. , Sledevskis E. , Bulanovs A.
Published: May 2012

Selective Wet-Etching of Amorphous/Crystallized Sb-Se Thin Films

The paper is focused on the development of an in situ real-time method for studying the process of wet chemical etching of thin films. The results of studies demonstrate the adequate etching selectivity for all thin film SbxSe100-x (x = 0, 20, 40, 50, 100) compositions under consideration. Different etching rates for the as-deposited and laser exposed areas were found to depend on the sample composition. The highest achieved etching rate was 1.8 nm/s for Sb40Se60 samples.
Power System Frequency Estimation Algorithm for Electric Energy Metering of Nonlinear Loads
Authors: Peng Zhang , Hong-Bin Li
Published: May 2012

Power System Frequency Estimation Algorithm for Electric Energy Metering of Nonlinear Loads

In this paper, a discrete wavelet transform (DWT) based approach is proposed for power system frequency estimation. Unlike the existing frequency estimators mainly used for power system monitoring and control, the proposed approach is developed for fundamental frequency estimation in the field of energy metering of nonlinear loads. The characteristics of a nonlinear load is that the power signal is heavily distorted, composed of harmonics, inter-harmonics and corrupted by noise. The main idea is to predetermine a series of frequency points, and the mean value of two frequency points nearest to the power system frequency is accepted as the approximate solution. Firstly the input signal is modulated with a series of modulating signals, whose frequencies are those frequency points. Then the modulated signals are decomposed into individual frequency bands using DWT, and differences between the maximum and minimum wavelet coefficients in the lowest frequency band are calculated. Similarities among power system frequency and those frequency points are judged by the differences. Simulation results have proven high immunity to noise, harmonic and inter-harmonic interferences. The proposed method is applicable for real-time power system frequency estimation for electric energy measurement of nonlinear loads.
Distance Measurement Errors in Silent Fm-Cw Sonar with Matched Filtering
Authors: Marszal Jacek , Salamon Roman
Published: May 2012

Distance Measurement Errors in Silent Fm-Cw Sonar with Matched Filtering

The secretiveness of sonar operation can be achieved by using continuous frequency-modulated sounding signals with reduced power and significantly prolonged repeat time. The application of matched filtration in the sonar receiver provides optimal conditions for detection against the background of white noise and reverberation, and a very good resolution of distance measurements of motionless targets. The article shows that target movement causes large range measurement errors when linear and hyperbolic frequency modulations are used. The formulas for the calculation of these errors are given. It is shown that for signals with linear frequency modulation the range resolution and detection conditions deteriorate. The use of hyperbolic frequency modulation largely eliminates these adverse effects.
Measures for Evaluation of Structure and Semantics of Ontologies
Authors: Waloszek Wojciech
Published: May 2012

Measures for Evaluation of Structure and Semantics of Ontologies

Recently, the topic of ontologies has growing attention from the IT community. Various processes of ontology creation, integration, and deployment have been proposed. As a consequence there appeared an urgent need for evaluating the resulting ontologies in a quantitative way. A number of metrics has been defined along with different approaches to measuring the properties of ontologies. In the first part of this paper we review the state of the art in this domain. Special attention is devoted to discussing differences between syntactic measures (referring to various properties of graphs that represent ontologies) and semantic measures (reflecting the properties of the space of ontology models). In the second part we propose an alternative approach to quantification of semantics of an ontology. The original proposal presented here exploits specific methods of representing the space of semantic models used for optimization of reasoning. We argue that this approach enables us to capture different kinds of relations among ontology terms and offers possibilities of devising new useful measures.
Non-Destructive Inspection of Anti-Corrosion Protective Coatings Using Optical Coherent Tomography
Authors: Antoniuk Paulina , Strąkowski Marcin , Pluciński Jerzy , Kosmowski Bogdan
Published: May 2012

Non-Destructive Inspection of Anti-Corrosion Protective Coatings Using Optical Coherent Tomography

Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT) is one of the most rapidly advancing techniques. This method is capable of non-contact and non-destructive investigation of the inner structure of a broad range of materials. Compared with other methods which belong to the NDE/NDT group (Non-Destructive Evaluation/Non-Destructive Testing methods), OCT is capable of a broad range of scattering material structure visualization. Such a non-invasive and versatile method is very demanded by the industry. The authors applied the OCT method to examine the corrosion process in metal samples coated by polymer films. The main aim of the research was the evaluation of the anti-corrosion protective coatings using the OCT method. The tested samples were exposed to a harsh environment. The OCT measurements have been taken at different stages of the samples degradation. The research and tests results have been presented, as well as a brief discussion has been carried out.
Problems of Varistor Quality Assessment During Exploitation
Authors: Smulko Janusz , Olesz Marek , Hasse Lech , Kaczmarek Leszek , Lentka Grzegorz
Published: May 2012

Problems of Varistor Quality Assessment During Exploitation

Varistors are commonly used elements which protect power supply networks against high-voltage surges or lightning. Therefore, quality and endurance of these elements is important to avoid losses when an expensive laboratory equipment would not be protected from random overvoltages. Additionally, excessive leakage currents generate serious costs due to high energy consumption. The paper presents shortly properties of varistors that comprized different ZnO grain types and can have various quality which changes continuously during exploitation (due to exposition to overheating and overvoltage pulses). Therefore, it is important to monitor varistors during their ageing (causing changes within their microstructures). A few methods of varistor property diagnosis were considered and compared with the methods currently applied in laboratory or industry applications. A new measurement (diagnostic) system that can monitor varistors during ageing and can be widely applied in power networks is presented. The proposed system fulfills requirements of the industrial customers which demand various methods for power line protection. The proposed system can be simply developed into a more advanced wireless diagnostic system of long power supply lines.
Theorizing Indigital Geographic Information Networks
Authors: Palmer Mark
Published: May 2012

In this article, I argue that in North America, 500 years of cartographic encounters and translations have transformed Indigenous map-making and geospatial technology processes into an amalgam of knowledge systems, science, and technology. To do this I first review the processes of map-making that have been shaped by continual cartographic encounters, exchanges, and translations between American Indians and Euro-Americans. Dichotomies between Indigenous–traditional and Western–scientific are prevalent within the literature, but the boundaries between geographic knowledge systems have always been fuzzy and crossable. This review includes some processes strongly shaped by Indigenous communities, such as ethnocartography and counter-mapping in Alaska and Canada, and GIS processes controlled more by government institutions in the lower 48 US states. Second, I introduce the tenets of a new model – indigital geographic information networks (iGIN) – to describe the heterogeneous processes of encounters, exchanges, and translations merging Indigenous, scientific, and digital technologies into inclusive forms of technoscience. Third, I demonstrate iGIN processes through exploratory research at the university level, using Kiowa-language narratives and network GIS to create a new “third” construct. Finally, following brief concluding remarks, I propose future research directions.
Magnesium Decreases Inflammatory Cytokine Production: A Novel Innate Immunomodulatory Mechanism
Authors: Sugimoto Jun , Romani Andrea M. , Valentin-Torres Alice M. , Luciano Angel A. , Ramirez Kitchen Christina M. , Funderburg Nicholas , Mesiano Sam , Bernstein Helene B.
Published: May 2012

MgSO4 exposure before preterm birth is neuroprotective, reducing the risk of cerebral palsy and major motor dysfunction. Neonatal inflammatory cytokine levels correlate with neurologic outcome, leading us to assess the effect of MgSO4 on cytokine production in humans. We found reduced maternal TNF-α and IL-6 production following in vivo MgSO4 treatment. Short-term exposure to a clinically effective MgSO4 concentration in vitro substantially reduced the frequency of neonatal monocytes producing TNF-α and IL-6 under constitutive and TLR-stimulated conditions, decreasing cytokine gene and protein expression, without influencing cell viability or phagocytic function. In summary, MgSO4 reduced cytokine production in intrapartum women, term and preterm neonates, demonstrating effectiveness in those at risk for inflammation-associated adverse perinatal outcomes. By probing the mechanism of decreased cytokine production, we found that the immunomodulatory effect was mediated by magnesium and not the sulfate moiety, and it was reversible. Cellular magnesium content increased rapidly upon MgSO4 exposure, and reduced cytokine production occurred following stimulation with different TLR ligands as well as when magnesium was added after TLR stimulation, strongly suggesting that magnesium acts intracellularly. Magnesium increased basal IĸBα levels, and upon TLR stimulation was associated with reduced NF-κB activation and nuclear localization. These findings establish a new paradigm for innate immunoregulation, whereby magnesium plays a critical regulatory role in NF-κB activation, cytokine production, and disease pathogenesis.
CXCL17 Is a Mucosal Chemokine Elevated in Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis That Exhibits Broad Antimicrobial Activity
Authors: Burkhardt Amanda M. , Tai Kenneth P. , Flores-Guiterrez Juan P. , Vilches-Cisneros Natalia , Kamdar Karishma , Barbosa-Quintana Oralia , Valle-Rios Ricardo , Hevezi Peter A. , Zuñiga Joaquin , Selman Moises , Ouellette André J. , Zlotnik Albert
Published: May 2012

The mucosal immune network is a crucial barrier preventing pathogens from entering the body. The network of immune cells that mediates the defensive mechanisms in the mucosa is likely shaped by chemokines, which attract a wide range of immune cells to specific sites of the body. Chemokines have been divided into homeostatic or inflammatory depending upon their expression patterns. Additionally, several chemokines mediate direct killing of invading pathogens, as exemplified by CCL28, a mucosa-associated chemokine that exhibits antimicrobial activity against a range of pathogens. CXCL17 was the last chemokine ligand to be described and is the 17th member of the CXC chemokine family. Its expression pattern in 105 human tissues and cells indicates that CXCL17 is a homeostatic, mucosa-associated chemokine. Its strategic expression in mucosal tissues suggests that it is involved in innate immunity and/or sterility of the mucosa. To test the latter hypothesis, we tested CXCL17 for possible antibacterial activity against a panel of pathogenic and opportunistic bacteria. Our results indicate that CXCL17 has potent antimicrobial activities and that its mechanism of antimicrobial action involves peptide-mediated bacterial membrane disruption. Because CXCL17 is strongly expressed in bronchi, we measured it in bronchoalveolar lavage fluids and observed that it is strongly upregulated in idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis. We conclude that CXCL17 is an antimicrobial mucosal chemokine that may play a role in the pathogenesis of interstitial lung diseases.
Innate IFNs and Plasmacytoid Dendritic Cells Constrain Th2 Cytokine Responses to Rhinovirus: A Regulatory Mechanism with Relevance to Asthma
Authors: Pritchard Antonia L. , Carroll Melanie L. , Burel Julie G. , White Olivia J. , Phipps Simon , Upham John W.
Published: May 2012

Human rhinoviruses (RV) cause only minor illness in healthy individuals, but can have deleterious consequences in people with asthma. This study sought to examine normal homeostatic mechanisms regulating adaptive immunity to RV in healthy humans, focusing on effects of IFN-αβ and plasmacytoid dendritic cells (pDC) on Th2 immune responses. PBMC were isolated from 27 healthy individuals and cultured with RV16 for up to 5 d. In some experiments, IFN-αβ was neutralized using a decoy receptor that blocks IFN signaling, whereas specific dendritic cell subsets were depleted from cultures with immune-magnetic beads. RV16 induced robust expression of IFN-α, IFN-β, multiple IFN-stimulated genes, and T cell-polarizing factors within the first 24 h. At 5 d, the production of memory T cell-derived IFN-γ, IL-10, and IL-13, but not IL-17A, was significantly elevated. Neutralizing the effects of type-I IFN with the decoy receptor B18R led to a significant increase in IL-13 synthesis, but had no effect on IFN-γ synthesis. Depletion of pDC from RV-stimulated cultures markedly inhibited IFN-α secretion, and led to a significant increase in expression and production of the Th2 cytokines IL-5 (p = 0.02), IL-9 (p < 0.01), and IL-13 (p < 0.01), but had no effect on IFN-γ synthesis. Depletion of CD1c+ dendritic cells did not alter cytokine synthesis. In healthy humans, pDC and the IFN-αβ they secrete selectively constrain Th2 cytokine synthesis following RV exposure in vitro. This important regulatory mechanism may be lost in asthma; deficient IFN-αβ synthesis and/or pDC dysfunction have the potential to contribute to asthma exacerbations during RV infections.
Cutting Edge: Evidence for a Dynamically Driven T Cell Signaling Mechanism
Authors: Hawse William F. , Champion Matthew M. , Joyce Michelle V. , Hellman Lance M. , Hossain Moushumi , Ryan Veronica , Pierce Brian G. , Weng Zhiping , Baker Brian M.
Published: May 2012

T cells use the αβ TCR to bind peptides presented by MHC proteins (pMHC) on APCs. Formation of a TCR–pMHC complex initiates T cell signaling via a poorly understood process, potentially involving changes in oligomeric state, altered interactions with CD3 subunits, and mechanical stress. These mechanisms could be facilitated by binding-induced changes in the TCR, but the nature and extent of any such alterations are unclear. Using hydrogen/deuterium exchange, we demonstrate that ligation globally rigidifies the TCR, which via entropic and packing effects will promote associations with neighboring proteins and enhance the stability of existing complexes. TCR regions implicated in lateral associations and signaling are particularly affected. Computational modeling demonstrated a high degree of dynamic coupling between the TCR constant and variable domains that is dampened upon ligation. These results raise the possibility that TCR triggering could involve a dynamically driven, allosteric mechanism.
The Use of IV Lipid Emulsion for Lipophilic Drug Toxicities
Authors: Kaplan Amy , Whelan Megan
Published: May 2012

IV lipid emulsion (ILE) therapy is emerging as a potential antidote for lipophilic drug toxicities in both human and veterinary medicine. ILE has already gained acceptance in human medicine as a treatment of local anesthetic systemic toxicity, but its mechanism of action, safety margins, and standardized dosing information remains undetermined at this time. Experimental and anecdotal use of ILE in the human and veterinary literature, theorized mechanisms of action, current dosing recommendations, potential adverse effects, and indications for use in human and veterinary emergency medicine are reviewed herein.
Anatomic Distribution and Clinical Findings of Intermuscular Lipomas in 17 Dogs (2005–2010)
Authors: Case J. Brad , MacPhail Catriona M. , Withrow Stephen J.
Published: May 2012

Intermuscular lipomas (IML) in dogs can be associated with ominous clinical signs, especially in the thoracic limb. However, the prognosis is excellent following surgical excision. There is a paucity of information in the veterinary literature regarding IML. Our objective was to describe the anatomical location, imaging techniques, and clinical findings in a series of dogs that were diagnosed and treated for IML. The prevalence of thoracic versus pelvic limb IML was not different. Most IML of the thoracic limb were located in the axilla. Operative time for IML of the thoracic and pelvic limb averaged 60 minutes. Complications were rare after marginal surgical excision and recurrence was not seen in any of the cases in this report. Intermuscular lipomas of the axilla are as common as IML of the caudal thigh. Surgical treatment of both axillary and caudal-thigh IML is associated with an excellent prognosis in dogs.
Clinical Signs of Cardiovascular Effects Secondary to Suspected Pimobendan Toxicosis in Five Dogs
Authors: Reinker L. Noelani , Lee Justine A. , Hovda Lynn R. , Rishniw Mark
Published: May 2012

The purpose of this study was to review the medical records of dogs that were either suspected or known to have ingested large doses of pimobendan and to describe the clinical signs associated with pimobendan toxicosis. The database of Pet Poison Helpline, an animal poison control center located in Minneapolis, MN, was searched for cases involving pimobendan toxicosis from Nov 2004 to Apr 2010. In total, 98 cases were identified. Of those, seven dogs that ingested between 2.6 mg/kg and 21.3 mg/kg were selected for further evaluation. Clinical signs consisted of cardiovascular abnormalities, including severe tachycardia (4/7), hypotension (2/7), and hypertension (2/7). In two dogs, no clinical signs were seen. Despite a wide safety profile, large overdoses of pimobendan may present risks for individual pets. Prompt decontamination, including emesis induction and the administration of activated charcoal, is advised in the asymptomatic patient. Symptomatic and supportive care should include the use of IV fluid therapy to treat hypotension and address hydration requirements and blood pressure and electrocardiogram monitoring with high-dose toxicosis. Practitioners should be aware of the clinical signs associated with high-dose pimobendan toxicosis. Of the dogs reported herein, all were hospitalized, responded to supportive care, and survived to discharge within 24 hr of exposure.
Near Visual Acuity Following Hyperopic Photorefractive Keratectomy in a Presbyopic Age Group
Authors: Moore Michael , Leccisotti Antonio , Grills Claire , Moore Tara C. B.
Published: May 2012

Purpose. To assess near visual acuity in a presbyopic age group following hyperopic photorefractive keratectomy (PRK).Setting. Private practice in Siena, Italy.Methods. In this retrospective single-surgeon comparative study, PRK with mitomycin C was performed to correct hyperopia using Bausch & Lomb 217z laser for 120 eyes of 60 patients in the presbyopic age group (mean spherical equivalent SE +2.38 D ± 0.71 D and mean age ). 120 eyes of 60 age-matched controls (mean age ) had their unaided near vision measured.Results. At 12 months mean SE was −0.10 D ± 0.27 D in the PRK group. Mean best corrected visual acuity (BSCVA) was log MAR; 2 eyes lost ≥0.1 log MAR. Mean uncorrected visual acuity was log MAR. Mean distance corrected near visual acuity (DCNVA) in the PRK group was . This was statistically better () than the mean unaided near visual acuity in the control group .Conclusion. PRK was found to be safe, predictable, and an effective way of correcting hyperopia in this age group. It was also found to give better than expected near vision.
Assessing the Accuracy of Bone Resection by Cutting Blocks in Patient-Specific Total Knee Replacements
Authors: Yeo Cheng Hong , Jariwala A. , Pourgiezis N. , Pillai A.
Published: May 2012

Introduction. The key to a successful total knee arthroplasty (TKA) is the restoration of the mechanical axis with balanced flexion and extension gaps. Patient-specific cutting block technique has been the latest development in total knee arthroplasty. This technique uses a magnetic resonance image (MRI) of the patient's symptomatic knee to create bone models and cutting jigs. This study was designed to evaluate the intraoperative accuracy of the patient-specific cutting block as compared to the preoperative template. Methods. Visionaire (Smith and Nephew, Genesis 2 Knee Arthroplasty) patient-specific TKA was used in all patients. An independent research officer was responsible for measuring all the resected articular surfaces of femur and tibia during surgery and compared it to the cutting block manufactured according to the preoperative template. Seven different measurements from each patient were obtained; four different measurements from the femur and three from the tibia were recorded. The differences between the actual resections made intraoperatively, as compared to the original pre-operative templates, were noted as the error. The surgical team was blinded to the measurements of the resections and the calculations of the errors. Results. Twenty-six Visionaire patient-specific TKA were included in the study. A total of 182 readings of bone resections made intraoperatively (seven for each patient). Eighty five percent of all collected readings were below the error margin of ≤1.5 mm. Size of resection had no effect on the error margin. All patients had satisfactory post-operative alignment, and at discharge all 26 patients achieved more than 90° of knee flexion. Conclusion. This observational study provides evidence that patient-specific TKA is comparable to other forms of TKA and may have some distinct advantages. In addition, we have shown that the cutting blocks are able to consistently deliver accurate cuts that are reproducible. We recommend intra-operative measurement of the bone resection and its comparison with the cutting block as a routine surgical step to confirm the MRI scan data, block placement, and instant validation of the bony resection before implant placement.
The Tousled-Like Kinases as Guardians of Genome Integrity
Authors: De Benedetti Arrigo
Published: May 2012

The Tousled-like kinases (TLKs) function in processes of chromatin assembly, including replication, transcription, repair, and chromosome segregation. TLKs interact specifically (and phosphorylate) with the chromatin assembly factor Asf1, a histone H3-H4 chaperone, histone H3 itself at Ser10, and also Rad9, a key protein involved in DNA repair and cell cycle signaling following DNA damage. These interactions are believed to be responsible for the action of TLKs in double-stranded break repair and radioprotection and also in the propagation of the DNA damage response. Hence, I propose that TLKs play key roles in maintenance of genome integrity in many organisms of both kingdoms. In this paper, I highlight key issues of the known roles of these proteins, particularly in the context of DNA repair (IR and UV), their possible relevance to genome integrity and cancer development, and as possible targets for intervention in cancer management.