bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Transient Neonatal Diabetes, ZFP57, and Hypomethylation of Multiple Imprinted Loci
Authors: Boonen Susanne E. , Mackay Deborah J.G. , Hahnemann Johanne M.D. , Docherty Louise , Grønskov Karen , Lehmann Anna , Larsen Lise G. , Haemers Andreas P. , Kockaerts Yves , Dooms Lutgarde , Vũ Dũng Chí , Ngoc C.T. Bich , Nguyen Phuong Bich , Kordonouri Olga , Sundberg Frida , Dayanikli Pinar , Puthi Vijith , Acerini Carlo , Massoud Ahmed F. , Tümer Zeynep , Temple I. Karen
Published: November 2012

OBJECTIVE

Transient neonatal diabetes mellitus 1 (TNDM1) is the most common cause of diabetes presenting at birth. Approximately 5% of the cases are due to recessive ZFP57 mutations, causing hypomethylation at the TNDM locus and other imprinted loci (HIL). This has consequences for patient care because it has impact on the phenotype and recurrence risk for families. We have determined the genotype, phenotype, and epigenotype of the first 10 families to alert health professionals to this newly described genetic subgroup of diabetes.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

The 10 families (14 homozygous/compound heterozygous individuals) with ZFP57 mutations were ascertained through TNDM1 diagnostic testing. ZFP57 was sequenced in probands and their relatives, and the methylation levels at multiple maternally and paternally imprinted loci were determined. Medical and family histories were obtained, and clinical examination was performed.

RESULTS

The key clinical features in probands were transient neonatal diabetes, intrauterine growth retardation, macroglossia, heart defects, and developmental delay. However, the finding of two homozygous relatives without diabetes and normal intelligence showed that the phenotype could be very variable. The epigenotype always included total loss of methylation at the TNDM1 locus and reproducible combinations of differential hypomethylation at other maternally imprinted loci, including tissue mosaicism.

CONCLUSIONS

There is yet no clear genotype–epigenotype–phenotype correlation to explain the variable clinical presentation, and this results in difficulties predicting the prognosis of affected individuals. However, many cases have a more severe phenotype than seen in other causes of TNDM1. Further cases and global epigenetic testing are needed to clarify this.
Impact of Sleep Duration on Obesity and the Glycemic Level in Patients With Type 2 Diabetes
Authors: Ohkuma Toshiaki , Fujii Hiroki , Iwase Masanori , Kikuchi Yohei , Ogata Shinako , Idewaki Yasuhiro , Ide Hitoshi , Doi Yasufumi , Hirakawa Yoichiro , Nakamura Udai , Kitazono Takanari
Published: November 2012

OBJECTIVE

Few studies are currently available regarding the influence of sleep duration on glycemic control in diabetic patients. The objective of the current study was to examine the relationship between sleep duration, obesity, and the glycemic level in type 2 diabetic patients.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

A total of 4,870 Japanese type 2 diabetic patients aged ≥20 years were divided into six groups according to their self-reported sleep duration: less than 4.5 h, 4.5–5.4 h, 5.5–6.4 h, 6.5–7.4 h, 7.5–8.4 h, and more than 8.5 h. The associations of sleep duration with obesity and the HbA1c levels were examined in a cross-sectional manner.

RESULTS

The HbA1c levels showed a quadratic association with sleep duration; namely, a shorter or longer sleep duration was associated with a higher level compared with a sleep duration of 6.5–7.4 h (P for quadratic trend <0.001). This association remained significant after adjusting for potential confounders, including the total energy intake and depressive symptoms. Furthermore, additional adjustments for obesity, which also showed a U-shaped relationship with sleep duration, did not attenuate the U-shaped sleep-HbA1c association. A significant interaction between sleep duration and age or the use of insulin was observed for the HbA1c levels.

CONCLUSIONS

Sleep duration was shown to have U-shaped associations with obesity and the HbA1c levels in type 2 diabetic patients, independent of potential confounders, and therefore may be an important modifiable factor for the clinical management of patients with type 2 diabetes.
Diagnostic and Prognostic Performances Over 9 Years of a Selective Screening Strategy for Gestational Diabetes Mellitus in a Cohort of 18,775 Subjects
Authors: Cosson Emmanuel , Benbara Amélie , Pharisien Isabelle , Nguyen Minh Tuan , Revaux Aurélie , Lormeau Boris , Sandre-Banon Dorian , Assad Nabil , Pillegand Camille , Valensi Paul , Carbillon Lionel
Published: November 2012

OBJECTIVE

We aimed to evaluate a selective screening strategy for gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) based on the presence of risk factors: BMI ≥25 kg/m2, age ≥35 years, family history of diabetes, personal history of GDM, or birth of a child with macrosomia.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

Of 20,630 deliveries between 2002 and 2010, we selected 18,775 deliveries in women with no known diabetes and for whom all risk factors were known. GDM was universally screened and defined as fasting plasma glucose level ≥5.3 mmol/L and/or 2-h postload (75 g) glucose level ≥7.8 mmol/L.

RESULTS

The prevalence of at least one risk factor has increased since 2002 (P < 0.001) from 51.7 to 61.5%, with no change in the GDM prevalence (mean 14.4%, intention to screen). At least one risk factor was present in 58.5% of women who represented 65.3% of all those with GDM. The presence of risk factors was significantly associated with GDM (odds ratio 1.4 [95% CI 1.3–1.5], P < 0.001) and with GDM-related events (preeclampsia/large for gestational age/dystocia) (P < 0.001) with the following incidences: no GDM/no risk factor 8.8%, no GDM/risk factor 11.1%, GDM/no risk factor 16.7%, and GDM/risk factor 18.2%.

CONCLUSIONS

The presence of risk factors increased during the last decade. This condition is predictive of GDM and GDM-related events. However, a selective screening would lead to missing one-third of the women with GDM who, even without risk factors, had more events than women without GDM. Therefore, these data stand against the present selective screening currently proposed in the French guidelines.
Incentive Pay Programs Do Not Affect Teacher Motivation or Reported Practices
Authors: Yuan Kun , Le Vi-Nhuan , McCaffrey Daniel F. , Marsh Julie A. , Hamilton Laura S. , Stecher Brian M. , Springer Matthew G.
Published: November 2012

This study drew on teacher survey responses from randomized experiments exploring three different pay-for-performance programs to examine the extent to which these programs motivated teachers to improve student achievement and the impact of such programs on teachers' instruction, number of hours worked, job stress, and collegiality. Results showed that most teachers did not report their program as motivating. Moreover, the survey responses suggest that none of the three programs changed teachers' instruction, increased their number of hours worked or job stress, or damaged their collegiality. Future research needs to further examine the logic model of pay-for-performance programs and test alternative incentive models such as rewarding teachers based on their practices and job responsibilities rather than on student outcomes.
Partial isothermal section of the Dy-Co-Ga ternary system at 500°C
Authors: Li J. Q. , Li H. T. , Li X. X. , Ao W. Q. , Liu F. S.
Published: November 2012

The partial isothermal section of the Dy–Co–Ga ternary system (below 33.3 at.% Dy) at 500 °C was investigated and constructed mainly using X-ray powder diffraction analysis with the aid of scanning electron microscopy. The 8 binary compounds, CoGa, CoGa3, Dy2Co17, Dy2Co7, DyCo3, DyCo2, DyGa3 and DyGa2, and the 9 previously reported ternary compounds DyCoGa (γ), Dy5Co12Ga3 (δ), DyCo3Ga2 (κ), Dy6Co7Ga21 (ν), Dy2CoGa8 (ο), Dy2Co3Ga9 (θ), DyCoGa5 (ρ), DyCo5Ga7 (λ) and Dy2Co13
–
11Ga4
–
6 (α) have been confirmed in the partial isothermal section at 500 °C. Five new ternary compounds, DyCo4.41
–
3.35 · Ga0.59
–
1.65 (β), DyCo1.33Ga0.67 (∊), DyCo0.67
–
0.35Ga1.33
–
1.65 (η), DyCo0.25
–
0.15Ga1.75
–
1.85 (ϕ), Dy3Co3Ga8 (μ), were found in this partial isothermal section. The structures of all compounds have been confirmed or determined. The nine compounds, Dy2Co17, Dy2Co13.5
–
9.10Ga3.5
–
7.
6 (α), DyCo4.41
–
3.35 · Ga0.59
–
1.65 (β), Dy2Co7, DyCo3, DyCo2.
55
–
1.8Ga0.
45
–
1.2 (δ), DyGa2, DyCo0.67
–
0.35Ga1.33
–
1.65 (η) and DyCo0.25
–
0.15 · Ga1.75
–
1.85 (ϕ), form solid solutions by the substitution of Ga atoms for Co atoms in the compounds. The solid solution ranges for these solid solutions have been obtained from their powder X-ray diffraction data.
Study of an Al-Si-Cu HPDC alloy with high Zn content for the production of components requiring high ductility and tensile properties
Authors: Vicario Iban , Egizabal Pedro , Galarraga Haize , Plaza Luis María , Crespo Iñigo
Published: November 2012

Conventional high-pressure die casting aluminium components present certain limitations in terms of mechanical properties attainable due to the intrinsic porosity of the castings as well as the presence of iron-based brittle intermetallic phases. The present work approaches the increase in ductility and tensile strength through the analysis of the effect of the alloying elements of Al-Si alloys used for high-pressure die casting. The combination of alloying elements providing the best results in terms of ductility and tensile strength were eventually selected to produce a batch of components that were thoroughly tested. The final alloy had a composition of Si 8.21, Fe 0.78, Cu 1.53, Mn 0.64, Mg 0.46, Ni 0.07, Zn 3.37, Pb 0.34, Sn 0.27, Ti 0.18 and Cr 0.04 wt.%. The selected alloy performance was compared to that of the commercial Al-Si9Cu3 and Silafont® 36 alloys.
Growth kinetics of aluminum-bearing intermetallic layer on tool steel
Authors: Shabestari Saeed G. , Nazari K. A.
Published: November 2012

The growth kinetics and morphology of intermetallic compounds at the interface of H13 tool steel and A380 molten aluminum alloy have been investigated through immersion experiments in the temperature range of 680 to 740 °C. The effect of nitride coating of the surface of H13 steel on the formation and growth of intermetallic layers has also been studied. The results of scanning electron microscopy indicated that three intermetallic layers are formed at the interface, Al8Fe2Si, Al5FeSi, and Al12Fe5Si. Nitride coating decreased the overall intermetallic layer thickness at temperatures between 680 and 740 °C. It decreased the number of layers at 680 °C; the Al12Fe5Si layer was not formed. Kinetics study of the interfacial reaction between H13 steel samples and A380 aluminum alloy revealed parabolic growth. The growth rate of the intermetallic layer was evaluated and the activation energy was found to be 40 and 158 kJ mol−1 for H13 steel and nitride-coated H13 steel, respectively.
Nanomechanical studies and materials characterization of metal/polymer bilayer MEMS cantilevers
Authors: Pustan Marius , Dudescu Cristian , Birleanu Corina , Rymuza Zygmunt
Published: November 2012

Bilayer microelectromechanical components such as microcantilevers, microbridges or micromembranes are usually used in microtransduction for actuation and sensing. One layer achieves the structural and elastic recovery function and the other layer acts as the active part by deforming under actuations. This paper describes the studies of mechanical characteristics of flexible bilayer microcantilevers fabricated from the polymer SU8 with a reflective nano-metallic layer on the top. The mechanical characteristics investigated are stiffness, modulus of elasticity, resonant frequency, bending strain and stress. The analytical relationships for bending stiffness of bilayer microcantilevers are determined by using Castigliano's second theorem. The first bending resonant frequency is computed based on the lumped-parameter model. Experimental tests of mechanical characteristics and materials characterization are developed using atomic force microscopy and nanoidentation. Finite element analysis is used to determine the maximum stress in the sample layers and their mechanical responses.
Microstructure and mechanical properties of as-cast and solution-treated Mg-Zn-Gd-based alloys reinforced with quasicrystals
Authors: Huang Hua , Yuan Guangyin , Tong Jian , Ding Wenjiang
Published: November 2012

The microstructure and mechanical properties of as-cast and solution-treated Mg-xZn-yGd (x/y = 6, at.%) alloys reinforced with quasicrystals have been investigated. The results indicate that with the increase in the alloying elements contents, the dendritic microstructure is refined, the corresponding strength gradually increased, and the elongation gradually decreased as the increase in the second phase sizes leads to stress concentration under as-cast and solution-treated conditions. For as-cast alloys, micro-cracks originated in the α-Mg matrix and quasicrystals interface. The fracture mode exhibits intergranular fracture characteristics. After solution treatment, the yield strength decreased, and the ultimate tensile strength and elongation increased clearly due to the Mg2Zn3 phase dissolution and the second phase sizes decreasing. The fracture mode changes to transgranular fracture.
Isothermal transformation of β-phase in Cu-rich Cu-Al-Sn alloys
Authors: Chakrabarty A. K. , Jacob K. T.
Published: November 2012

Microstructural changes resulting from isothermal decomposition of the β-phase have been studied in Cu-rich binary Cu-Al and ternary Cu-Al-Sn alloys containing up to 3 at.% Sn at temperatures from 873 to 673 K. Results are presented as TTT diagrams. The decomposition occurs in several stages, each of which involves the establishment of metastable equilibrium between β and one or more of the product phases α β1 and γ2. Addition of Sn has been shown to increase the stability of the ordered β1-phase in relation to β. In alloys containing more than 2 at.% Sn, the β1 emerges as a stable phase. At low Sn concentrations β1 is metastable. An important new finding is the existence of three-phase equilibrium microstructure containing α β1 and γ2. Increasing addition of Sn alters the morphology of β1 from rosettes to dendrites and finally to Widmanstätten needles.
Grain refinement and mechanical properties of low-carbon steel by means of equal channel angular pressing and annealing
Authors: Mayer Galina G. , Astafurova Elena G. , Maier Hans J. , Naydenkin Eugene V. , Raab George I. , Odessky Pavel D. , Dobatkin Sergey V.
Published: November 2012

Equal channel angular pressing of low-carbon steel produces an ultrafine-grained microstructure with an average (sub-)grain size of 325 nm and both coarse and fine carbides, a microhardness of 330 HV and 0.2 % offset yield strength of σ0.2 = 815 MPa. The average (sub-)grain size and the mechanical properties of the steel after equal channel angular pressing were found to be stable up to 500 °C. The composition of the carbides, their sizes and their distribution in the microstructure were analyzed in order to understand their contribution to the mechanical properties and the thermal stability of the steel. Both the high strength and the thermal stability of the steel after equal channel angular pressing are associated with the grain refinement, the substructure strengthening, and precipitation hardening.
Biofilm formation and corrosion resistance of Ni/SiC nanocomposite layers
Authors: Benea Lidia , Ciubotariu Alina-Crina , Sand Wolfgang
Published: November 2012

Pure Ni and Ni/SiC nanocomposite layers were prepared by means of direct current electrodeposition in a sulfate–chloride nickel plating bath. The surface characteristics and properties of Ni/SiC nanocomposite layers and pure nickel coatings were comparatively investigated. The surface morphology, microstructure, topography, roughness and corrosion were characterized using scanning electron microscopy with energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy, transmission electron microscopy, atomic force microscopy, epifluorescence microscopy and electrochemical methods. The results show that the electro-co-deposition of nano-SiC (20 nm) into a nickel matrix can significantly affect the morphology, microstructure and surface properties of Ni/SiC nanocomposite coatings. Ni/SiC nanocomposite coatings are of great interest for improving electrochemical corrosion resistance as well as resistance to bacteria attachment.
Kinetics of thermal dehydration of sol-gel derived MgO–ZrO2 composite hydrogel
Authors: Das Sudip , Mitra N. K. , Das Sukhen
Published: November 2012

The kinetics of thermal dehydration of mixed hydroxide hydrogels in MgO–ZrO2 system was studied as a function of composition by following the isothermal heat treatment route. Kinetic parameters were calculated through the application of the Guggenheim equation. The expulsion of both loosely bound water and constitutional OH groups were not continuous processes but proceeded in steps. The applicability of 1st order reaction kinetics for the major portion of the reaction for all compositions suggests that during the dehydroxylation process the dehydration is essentially controlled by the orientation of H2O molecules and the mutual interaction of hydroxyl groups. Due to a decrease in the concentration of the reacting species the activation energy was always higher at the final stage of dehydration.
Vertical static compression performance of honeycomb paperboard
Authors: Guo Yanfeng , Becker Wilfried , Xu Wencai
Published: November 2012

This paper evaluates the compression deformation behaviour and energy absorbing properties of honeycomb paperboards with different thicknesses under homogeneous vertical static compression loading. Each piece of the static compression stress and strain curves of the honeycomb paperboards is similar and comprises three parts of compression deformation (elastic region, plateau region, and densification region), which reflects the mechanical properties such as approximately linear elastic deformation, large plastic deformation with local collapse and densification. The unit volume deformation energy and strain curves and two kinds of static compression cushioning curves show that within the elastic region and plateau region of the stress and strain curves, the honeycomb paperboards hold better energy absorbing properties and the change of the cushioning factor with an increase in the thickness of honeycomb paperboards is very small.
Monitoring the Production of Polymer Nanocomposites by Melt Compounding with On-line Rheometry
Authors: Mould S. T. , Barbas J. M. , Machado A. V. , Nóbrega J. M. , Covas J. A.
Published: November 2012

Polymer nanocomposites are often prepared by melt compounding due to the suitability of the latter to industrial scale production. Even though monitoring the production process for quality control and/or optimization purposes is generally done off-line, the possibility of using on-line oscillatory rheometry has many inherent advantages. This work illustrates the use of a prototype rheometer to monitor the production of polymer nanocomposites by making measurements at specific locations along the extruder axis. The device is presented and its operation is explained. Examples of its use to characterize polypropylene and polyamide matrix nanocomposites with organoclays and carbon nanotubes are discussed, thus demonstrating the usefulness of the device.
Annular Extrudate Swell of a Fluoropolymer Melt
Authors: Mitsoulis E. , Hatzikiriakos S. G.
Published: November 2012

Annular extrudate swell is studied for a fluoropolymer (FEP) melt using a tubular die. The rheological data of the melt have been fitted using (i) a viscous model (Cross) and (ii) a viscoelastic one (the Kaye – Bernstein, Kearsley, Zapas/Papanastasiou, Scriven, Macosko or K-BKZ/PSM model). Numerical simulations have been undertaken to study the extrudate swell of the FEP melt in an annular die. Compressibility, thermal and pressure effects on viscosity, and slip at the wall were taken into account. In all cases, slip at the wall is the dominant contribution reducing the swelling when compared with corresponding no-slip simulations. The viscous (Cross) simulations show that the swell decreases with increasing apparent shear rate, which is opposite to what happens in the extrusion of viscoelastic melts. On the other hand, the viscoelastic (K-BKZ) simulations correctly obtain increasing swelling with increasing shear (flow) rates. It was found that due to the mild viscoelasticity of FEP and its severe slip at the wall the swelling of this melt is relatively small, reaching values of about 20% for a wide range of apparent shear rates, exceeding 5000 s−1. This is corroborated by experimental observations.
Processing of Polymer Nanocomposites Reinforced with Cellulose Nanocrystals: A Challenge
Authors: Dufresne A.
Published: November 2012

Aqueous suspensions of cellulose nanocrystals can be prepared by acid hydrolysis of the biomass. Due to their nanoscale dimensions and intrinsic physicochemical properties, these nanoparticles are promising renewable biomaterials. The high mechanical properties and reinforcing capability of these nanoparticles make them attractive for the processing of high performance nanocomposites. The main problem is related to the homogeneous dispersion of these nanoparticles within the polymeric matrix. Because cellulose nanocrystals are obtained as aqueous suspensions, water is the preferred processing medium. However, new strategies are envisaged to broaden the polymeric matrices that can be reinforced with these nanoparticles and avoid the liquid medium processing way. This paper reviews the different processing techniques of cellulose nanocrystals reinforced polymer nanocomposites focusing on the challenging melt processing technique.
Residual Wall Thickness Study of Variable Cross-section Tube in Water-assisted Injection Molding
Authors: Yang J. G. , Zhou X. H. , Niu Q.
Published: November 2012

Residual wall thickness is an important measure of the quality of water-assisted injection molding (WAIM) parts. Based on the traditional injection molding model, Reynolds stress was introduced into the WAIM model for the turbulent characteristics of high pressure water. In addition, residual wall thickness was computed by a computational fluid dynamics (CFD) method, and the results matched well with experimental data. The results show that the hollowed core ratio changes from small to large in the first half of water penetration, while in the latter half it is just the opposite. Difference of the residual wall thickness is larger at the large-diameter position of a part than other position. Residual wall thickness is mainly affected by water injection pressure, delay time, melt temperature, mold temperature and amount of short shot, in which the amount of short shot is the most obvious.
Structure, Mechanical and Barrier Properties of Uniaxially Stretched Multilayer Nylon/Clay Nanocomposite Films
Authors: Sadeghi F. , Ajji A.
Published: November 2012

Multilayer films consisting of a core layer of nylon 6 (PA6) sandwiched between two linear low density polyethylene (LLDPE) layers by using a tie layer were produced using a semi industrial cast film extrusion line. The core layer of the films was produced from neat PA6 and PA6/clay nanocomposite resins. The films were consequently uniaxially stretched in machine direction. The effect of stretching on crystalline structure, orientation as well as mechanical and barrier properties of the samples were investigated. Orientation of the films for both layers: polyethylene and nylon was assessed using FTIR (Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy) and it was found that clay inclusion hindered orientation of the core nylon layer. Interaction of nylon molecules with clay influences the crystalline structure for nylon/clay nanocomposite film during the stretching as it hindered crystal transformation of γ to α phase. The effect of clay interaction on phase structure was also observed in DSC (Dynamic Scanning Calorimetry) results. Stretching improved barrier to oxygen for the samples. Oxygen transmission rate was reduced about 62.5% for the films having a nylon core and 50% for those with nylon/clay core when stretched to a draw ratio of 1.5 and remained nearly constant for higher draw ratios up to 3. Haze of the films was reduced with stretching; however the effect was more effective for the sample with neat nylon in the core layer when compared to the nylon/clay core one. Finally, it was observed that puncture resistance of the samples was improved significantly with stretching.
Electrical Double-Layer Capacitors in Hybrid Topologies —Assessment and Evaluation of Their Performance
Authors: Omar Noshin , Daowd Mohamed , Hegazy Omar , Bossche Peter , Coosemans Thierry , Mierlo Joeri
Published: November 2012

PHEVs and BEVs make use of battery cells optimized for high energy rather than for high power. This means that the power abilities of these batteries are limited. In order to enhance their performance, a hybrid Rechargeable Energy Storage System (RESS) architecture can be used combining batteries with electrical-double layer capacitors (EDLCs). Such a hybridized architecture can be accomplished using passive or active systems. In this paper, the characteristics of these topologies have been analyzed and compared based on a newly developed hybridization simulation tool for association of lithium-ion batteries and EDLCs. The analysis shows that the beneficial impact of the EDLCs brings about enhanced battery performances in terms of energy efficiency and voltage drops, rather than extension of vehicle range. These issues have been particularly studied for the passive and active hybrid topologies. The classical passive and active topologies being expensive and less beneficial in term of cost, volume and weight, a new hybrid configuration based on the parallel combination of lithium-ion and EDLCs on cell level has been proposed in this article. This topology allows reducing cost, volume, and weight and system complexity in a significant way. Furthermore, a number of experimental setups have illustrated the power of the novel topology in terms of battery capacity increase and power capabilities during charging and discharging. Finally, a unique cycle life test campaign demonstrated that the lifetime of highly optimized lithium-ion batteries can be extended up to 30%–40%.
Novel Speed Bumps Design and Optimization for Vehicles' Energy Recovery in Smart Cities
Authors: Pirisi Andrea , Grimaccia Francesco , Mussetta Marco , Zich Riccardo
Published: November 2012

Recently the technology development and increasing amounts of investment in renewables has led to a growing interest towards design and optimization of green energy systems. In this context, advanced Computational Intelligence (CI) techniques can be applied by engineers to several technical problems in order to find out the best structure and to improve efficiency in energy recovery. This research promises to give new impulse to using innovative unconventional renewable sources and to develop the so-called Energy Harvesting Devices (EHDs). In this paper, the optimization of a Tubular Permanent Magnet-Linear Generator for energy harvesting from vehicles to grid is presented. The optimization process is developed by means of hybrid evolutionary algorithms to reach the best overall system efficiency and the impact on the environment and transportation systems. Finally, an experimental validation of the designed EHD prototype is presented.
Geoprocessing Journey-to-Work Data: Delineating Commuting Regions in Dalarna, Sweden
Authors: Landré Martin
Published: November 2012

Delineation of commuting regions has always been based on statistical units, often municipalities or wards. However, using these units has certain disadvantages as their land areas differ considerably. Much information is lost in the larger spatial base units and distortions in self-containment values, the main criterion in rule-based delineation procedures, occur. Alternatively, one can start from relatively small standard size units such as hexagons. In this way, much greater detail in spatial patterns is obtained. In this paper, regions are built by means of intrazonal maximization (Intramax) on the basis of hexagons. The use of geoprocessing tools, specifically developed for the processing of commuting data, speeds up processing time considerably. The results of the Intramax analysis are evaluated with travel-to-work area constraints, and comparisons are made with commuting fields, accessibility to employment, commuting flow density and network commuting flow size. From selected steps in the regionalization process, a hierarchy of nested commuting regions emerges, revealing the complexity of commuting patterns.
Low Temperature Hall Effect Investigation of Conducting Polymer-Carbon Nanotubes Composite Network
Authors: Bahrami Afarin , Talib Zainal , Yunus Wan , Behzad Kasra , M.Abdi Mahnaz , Din Fasih
Published: November 2012

Polypyrrole (PPy) and polypyrrole-carboxylic functionalized multi wall carbon nanotube composites (PPy/f-MWCNT) were synthesized by in situ chemical oxidative polymerization of pyrrole on the carbon nanotubes (CNTs). The structure of the resulting complex nanotubes was characterized by transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and X-ray diffraction (XRD). The effects of f-MWCNT concentration on the electrical properties of the resulting composites were studied at temperatures between 100 K and 300 K. The Hall mobility and Hall coefficient of PPy and PPy/f-MWCNT composite samples with different concentrations of f-MWCNT were measured using the van der Pauw technique. The mobility decreased slightly with increasing temperature, while the conductivity was dominated by the gradually increasing carrier density.
Rapid Development of Microsatellite Markers for the Endangered Fish Schizothorax biddulphi (Günther) Using Next Generation Sequencing and Cross-Species Amplification
Authors: Luo Wei , Nie Zhulan , Zhan Fanbin , Wei Jie , Wang Weimin , Gao Zexia
Published: November 2012

Tarim schizothoracin (Schizothorax biddulphi) is an endemic fish species native to the Tarim River system of Xinjiang and has been classified as an extremely endangered freshwater fish species in China. Here, we used a next generation sequencing platform (ion torrent PGM™) to obtain a large number of microsatellites for S. biddulphi, for the first time. A total of 40577 contigs were assembled, which contained 1379 SSRs. In these SSRs, the number of dinucleotide repeats were the most frequent (77.08%) and AC repeats were the most frequently occurring microsatellite, followed by AG, AAT and AT. Fifty loci were randomly selected for primer development; of these, 38 loci were successfully amplified and 29 loci were polymorphic across panels of 30 individuals. The Ho ranged from 0.15 to 0.83, and He ranged from 0.15 to 0.85, with 3.5 alleles per locus on average. Cross-species utility indicated that 20 of these markers were successfully amplified in a related, also an endangered fish species, S. irregularis. This study suggests that PGM™ sequencing is a rapid and cost-effective tool for developing microsatellite markers for non-model species and the developed microsatellite markers in this study would be useful in Schizothorax genetic analysis.
Strategic Design and Fabrication of Engineered Scaffolds for Articular Cartilage Repair
Authors: Izadifar Zohreh , Chen Xiongbiao , Kulyk William
Published: November 2012

Damage to articular cartilage can eventually lead to osteoarthritis (OA), a debilitating, degenerative joint disease that affects millions of people around the world. The limited natural healing ability of cartilage and the limitations of currently available therapies make treatment of cartilage defects a challenging clinical issue. Hopes have been raised for the repair of articular cartilage with the help of supportive structures, called scaffolds, created through tissue engineering (TE). Over the past two decades, different designs and fabrication techniques have been investigated for developing TE scaffolds suitable for the construction of transplantable artificial cartilage tissue substitutes. Advances in fabrication technologies now enable the strategic design of scaffolds with complex, biomimetic structures and properties. In particular, scaffolds with hybrid and/or biomimetic zonal designs have recently been developed for cartilage tissue engineering applications. This paper reviews critical aspects of the design of engineered scaffolds for articular cartilage repair as well as the available advanced fabrication techniques. In addition, recent studies on the design of hybrid and zonal scaffolds for use in cartilage tissue repair are highlighted.
Tumor-Associated Glycans and Their Role in Gynecological Cancers: Accelerating Translational Research by Novel High-Throughput Approaches
Authors: Pochechueva Tatiana , Jacob Francis , Fedier Andre , Heinzelmann-Schwarz Viola
Published: November 2012

Glycans are important partners in many biological processes, including carcinogenesis. The rapidly developing field of functional glycomics becomes one of the frontiers of biology and biomedicine. Aberrant glycosylation of proteins and lipids occurs commonly during malignant transformation and leads to the expression of specific tumor-associated glycans. The appearance of aberrant glycans on carcinoma cells is typically associated with grade, invasion, metastasis and overall poor prognosis. Cancer-associated carbohydrates are mostly located on the surface of cancer cells and are therefore potential diagnostic biomarkers. Currently, there is increasing interest in cancer-associated aberrant glycosylation, with growing numbers of characteristic cancer targets being detected every day. Breast and ovarian cancer are the most common and lethal malignancies in women, respectively, and potential glycan biomarkers hold promise for early detection and targeted therapies. However, the acceleration of research and comprehensive multi-target investigation of cancer-specific glycans could only be successfully achieved with the help of a combination of novel high-throughput glycomic approaches.
Approaches and Challenges of Engineering Implantable Microelectromechanical Systems (MEMS) Drug Delivery Systems for in Vitro and in Vivo Applications
Authors: Tng Danny , Hu Rui , Song Peiyi , Roy Indrajit , Yong Ken-Tye
Published: November 2012

Despite the advancements made in drug delivery systems over the years, many challenges remain in drug delivery systems for treating chronic diseases at the personalized medicine level. The current urgent need is to develop novel strategies for targeted therapy of chronic diseases. Due to their unique properties, microelectromechanical systems (MEMS) technology has been recently engineered as implantable drug delivery systems for disease therapy. This review examines the challenges faced in implementing implantable MEMS drug delivery systems in vivo and the solutions available to overcome these challenges.
Recent Advances in Nanostructured Thermoelectric Half-Heusler Compounds
Authors: Xie Wenjie , Weidenkaff Anke , Tang Xinfeng , Zhang Qingjie , Poon Joseph , Tritt Terry
Published: November 2012

Half-Heusler (HH) alloys have attracted considerable interest as promising thermoelectric (TE) materials in the temperature range around 700 K and above, which is close to the temperature range of most industrial waste heat sources. The past few years have seen nanostructuing play an important role in significantly enhancing the TE performance of several HH alloys. In this article, we briefly review the recent progress and advances in these HH nanocomposites. We begin by presenting the structure of HH alloys and the different strategies that have been utilized for improving the TE properties of HH alloys. Next, we review the details of HH nanocomposites as obtained by different techniques. Finally, the review closes by highlighting several promising strategies for further research directions in these very promising TE materials.
A European (German) View on Comparative Theology: Dialogue with My Own Past
Authors: Dehn Ulrich
Published: November 2012

For the last couple of years, particularly after the publication of the (German) book “Comparative Theology” by Bernhold Reinhardt and Klaus von Stosch, there was a significant attentiveness of this subject amongst German scholars. For many, it was the long anticipated antithesis/alternative to the pluralist theology of religions, even if it had not been devised explicitly to serve as such an alternative. For others, it has been an appropriate way to express their desire for a substantial interreligious dialogue in a theologically responsible way. This paper tries to review some of the major German contributions (being read alongside international ones) and reactions to Comparative Theology and to search for the motive behind its sudden popularity in some circles. It will also try to reconstruct the possibilities for Comparative Theology within the wider setting of the process and development of religious traditions as they grow and change in never-ending interaction and communication within the history of religions, ideas and society.
Optical-Based Sensors for Monitoring Corrosion of Reinforcement Rebar via an Etched Cladding Bragg Grating
Authors: Hassan Muhammad , Bakar Muhammad , Dambul Katrina , Adikan Faisal
Published: November 2012

In this paper, we present the development and testing of an optical-based sensor for monitoring the corrosion of reinforcement rebar. The testing was carried out using an 80% etched-cladding Fibre Bragg grating sensor to monitor the production of corrosion waste in a localized region of the rebar. Progression of corrosion can be sensed by observing the reflected wavelength shift of the FBG sensor. With the presence of corrosion, the etched-FBG reflected spectrum was shifted by 1.0 nm. In addition, with an increase in fringe pattern and continuously, step-like drop in power of the Bragg reflected spectrum was also displayed.
Influenza B-Cells Protective Epitope Characterization: A Passkey for the Rational Design of New Broad-Range Anti-Influenza Vaccines
Authors: Clementi Nicola , Criscuolo Elena , Castelli Matteo , Mancini Nicasio , Clementi Massimo , Burioni Roberto
Published: November 2012

The emergence of new influenza strains causing pandemics represents a serious threat to human health. From 1918, four influenza pandemics occurred, caused by H1N1, H2N2 and H3N2 subtypes. Moreover, in 1997 a novel influenza avian strain belonging to the H5N1 subtype infected humans. Nowadays, even if its transmission is still circumscribed to avian species, the capability of the virus to infect humans directly from avian reservoirs can result in fatalities. Moreover, the risk that this or novel avian strains could adapt to inter-human transmission, the development of resistance to anti-viral drugs and the lack of an effective prevention are all incumbent problems for the world population. In this scenario, the identification of broadly neutralizing monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) directed against conserved regions shared among influenza isolates has raised hopes for the development of monoclonal antibody-based immunotherapy and “universal” anti-influenza vaccines.
Comparison of the Clinical Expression of Patients with Ankylosing Spondylitis from Europe and Latin America
Authors: BENEGAS MARIANA , MUÑOZ-GOMARIZ ELISA , FONT PILAR , BURGOS-VARGAS RUBEN , CHAVES JOSÉ , PALLEIRO DANIEL , MALDONADO COCCO JOSÉ , GUTIÉRREZ MIGUEL , SÁENZ RICARDO , STECKMEN IVAN , RILLO OSCAR , MULERO JUAN , SAMPAIO-BARROS PERCIVAL , BARCELOS ANABELA , VANDER CRUYSSEN BERT , VAZQUEZ-MELLADO JANITZIA , COLLANTES ESTEVEZ EDUARDO
Published: November 2012

Objective.

To compare the clinical, demographic, and serologic characteristics and the treatment of patients diagnosed with ankylosing spondylitis (AS) from Europe (EU) and Latin America (LA).

Methods.

We included 3439 patients from national registries: the Spanish Registry of Spondyloarthritis (REGISPONSER), the Belgian registry (ASPECT), and the Latin American Registry of Spondyloarthropathies (RESPONDIA). We selected patients with diagnosis of AS who met the modified New York classification criteria. Demographic, clinical, disease activity, functional, and metrological measurement data were recorded. Current treatment was recorded. The population was classified into 2 groups: patients with disease duration < 10 years and those with disease duration ≥ 10 years. A descriptive and comparative analysis of variables of both groups was carried out.

Results.

There were 2356 patients in EU group and 1083 in LA group. Prevalence of HLA-B27 was 71% in LA group and 83% in EU group (p < 0.001). We found a greater frequency of peripheral arthritis and enthesitis (p < 0.001) in the LA population; prevalence of arthritis was 57% in LA and 42% in EU, and for enthesitis, 54% and 38%. Except for treatment with anti-tumor necrosis factor (anti-TNF), the use of nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drugs (NSAID), corticosteroids, and disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARD), and the association of anti-TNF and methotrexate use showed a significant difference (p < 0.001) in the 2 populations.

Conclusion.

The principal differences in the clinical manifestations of patients with AS from EU and LA were the greater frequency of peripheral arthritis and enthesitis in LA group, the higher percentage of HLA-B27 in EU group, and the form of treatment, with a greater use of NSAID, steroids, and DMARD in the LA group.
Les modifications de la technique
Authors: Lucarelli Daniela
Published: November 2012

Résumé Autour des travaux de F. Richard et de A. M. Nicolò, l’auteur invite à un questionnement autour de la spécificité du travail analytique avec les adolescents et les éventuels aménagements du cadre – tant théorique que clinique – qu’il réclame.
De l'intérêt d'articuler les dimensions discursive et interactionnelle de la conversation. Le cas d'une profession en voie de légitimation
Authors: Laforest Marty
Published: November 2012

Cet article est consacré à deux dimensions bien connues de la conversation (au sens large du terme) : les dimensions discursive et interactionnelle. L’objectif est de montrer que leur articulation dans l’analyse de tout ensemble de données enrichit notre compréhension de ses enjeux en ce qui a trait à la question des rapports entre l’échelle locale de l’événement singulier de parole et l’échelle globale des patterns sociaux. L’analyse s’appuie sur des consultations sage-femme/cliente au Québec. Sur le plan interactionnel, la consultation se distingue peu des interactions médecin/patient. Sur le plan discursif cependant, les sages-femmes construisent une identité distincte de celle des médecins. Seule l’articulation des deux dimensions de ce que l’on peut observer à l’échelle micro du langage permet de dresser un portrait précis de ce qui se passe à l’échelle sociale macro.
Organisation multimodale de la parole-en-interaction : pratiques incarnées d'introduction des référents
Authors: Mondada Lorenza
Published: November 2012

Cet article propose une réflexion sur la manière dont la prise en compte des ressources multimodales (parole, geste, regard, mimiques faciales, postures corporelles) est susceptible de modifier à la fois notre conception du langage et de la grammaire et notre manière de les décrire et modéliser. En partant d’une discussion de la notion de ‘ressource’, l’article montre à l’aide d’une étude de collections de cas que l’utilisation et le choix de la syntaxe sont finement ajustés à l’écologie de l’action en train de se faire. L’article dégage deux formats d’introduction d’un nouveau référent et montre que la progressivité de la production du tour est étroitement liée aux mouvements des corps. En montrant la systématicité de ces Gestalts multimodales complexes et émergentes, il suggère que la description linguistique devrait intégrer ces dynamiques multimodales dans la définition même des procédés référentiels.
Le développement de cohérences transversales et verticales dans l’enseignement des langues étrangères
Authors: Haramboure Françoise
Published: November 2012

Si l’apprentissage d’une langue étrangère relève d’un processus continu, les formations en anglais général dans l’enseignement secondaire et en anglais de spécialité à l’université contribuent à un processus identique. Tenant compte des caractéristiques de chaque contexte d’apprentissage, cet article examine les convergences et les divergences entre ces deux niveaux, analyse leur influence sur la motivation des étudiants, les stratégies d’enseignement et d’apprentissage et enfin propose une démarche plus cohérente.
Integrating Prevention of Mother to Child HIV Transmission competencies into the nursing curriculum: Methodological lessons from a university-based undergraduate programme
Authors: Mbombo Nomafrench , Bimerew Million
Published: November 2012

South Africa (SA) has the highest number of women infected with HIV and AIDS during pregnancy, which results in more than 70 000 infected babies being born each year AIDS is the major contributor to maternal and child morbidities and mortalities in the country. To combat this, the SA government has developed a national policy to prevent mother-to-child HIV transmission (PMTCT). However, for effective implementation of this policy, there is a dire need for a competent, skilled health worker to render the service. In response to this, the School of Nursing at the University of the Western Cape has integrated PMTCT competencies into the undergraduate Bachelor of Nursing Science curriculum. In this paper, we described teaching and learning approaches used to integrate PMTCT competencies, including the skills laboratory methodology and case-based learning, as well as a portfolio of evidence assessment tool. A quantitative descriptive design was used to analyse data collected from students in regard to assessment of PMTCT competencies achieved. The study used the conceptual framework of Lenburg’s competency outcomes and performance assessment model, which focuses on competency development and assessment in a clinical environment. HIV competencies, including PMTCT, should be integrated both theoretically and at service delivery into other nursing and midwifery competencies, including assessment strategies. Provincial policies in provision of antiretrovirals by nurses and midwives become barriers to successful implementation of PMTCT, resulting in limited learning opportunities for students to practice PMTCT competencies. Further research is required to assess an attribute, affect, which is another prong for competencies.
Mini-Workshop: Manifolds with Lower Curvature Bounds
Authors: Dessai Anand , Tuschmann Wilderich , Wilking Burkhard
Published: November 2012

The purpose of the meeting was to relate and study new developments in the geometry and topology of Riemannian manifolds with lower curvature bounds. Special emphasis was given to lower Ricci curvature bounds in the sense of Lott-Villani and Sturm and to the gradient flow on metric spaces as well as to manifolds with a lower sectional curvature bound.
Mini-Workshop: Thermodynamic Formalism, Geometry and Stochastics
Authors: Stratmann Bernd O. , Urbanski Mariusz , Zdunik Anna
Published: November 2012

Thermodynamic formalism and all its branches and applications in conformal dynamics, probability theory, stochastics and fractal geometry represent highly important fields in modern Mathematics, which are currently very active and rapidly growing. The workshop brought leading experts in these fields together with junior researchers to provide them with the opportunity to exchange their knowledge and experience. It led to various new insights as well as promising new research collaborations.