bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Optimal Seeding of Self-Reproducing Systems
Authors: Menezes Amor A. , Kabamba Pierre T.
Published: October 2011

This article is motivated by the need to minimize the number of elements required to establish a self-reproducing system. One such system is a self-reproducing extraterrestrial robotic colony, which reduces the launch payload mass for space exploration compared to current mission configurations. In this work, self-reproduction is achieved by the actions of a robot on available resources. An important consideration for the establishment of any self-reproducing system is the identification of a seed, for instance, a set of resources and a set of robots that utilize them to produce all of the robots in the colony. This article outlines a novel algorithm to determine an optimal seed for self-reproducing systems, with application to a self-reproducing extraterrestrial robotic colony. Optimality is understood as the minimization of a cost function of the resources and, in this article, the robots. Since artificial self-reproduction is currently an open problem, the algorithm is illustrated with a simple robotic self-replicating system from the literature and with a more complicated self-reproducing example from nature.
Fuzzy Stability of Generalized Mixed Type Cubic, Quadratic, and Additive Functional Equation
Authors: Gordji Madjid Eshaghi , Kamyar Mahdie , Khodaei Hamid , Shin Dong Yun , Park Choonkil
Published: October 2011

In this paper, we prove the generalized Hyers-Ulam stability of generalized mixed type cubic, quadratic, and additive functional equation, in fuzzy Banach spaces.

2010 Mathematics Subject Classification: 39B82; 39B52.
A proteogenomic analysis of Shigella flexneri using 2D LC-MALDI TOF/TOF
Authors: Zhao Lina , Liu Liguo , Leng Wenchuan , Wei Candong , Jin Qi
Published: October 2011

Background

New strategies for high-throughput sequencing are constantly appearing, leading to a great increase in the number of completely sequenced genomes. Unfortunately, computational genome annotation is out of step with this progress. Thus, the accurate annotation of these genomes has become a bottleneck of knowledge acquisition.

Results

We exploited a proteogenomic approach to improve conventional genome annotation by integrating proteomic data with genomic information. Using Shigella flexneri 2a as a model, we identified total 823 proteins, including 187 hypothetical proteins. Among them, three annotated ORFs were extended upstream through comprehensive analysis against an in-house N-terminal extension database. Two genes, which could not be translated to their full length because of stop codon 'mutations' induced by genome sequencing errors, were revised and annotated as fully functional genes. Above all, seven new ORFs were discovered, which were not predicted in S. flexneri 2a str.301 by any other annotation approaches. The transcripts of four novel ORFs were confirmed by RT-PCR assay. Additionally, most of these novel ORFs were overlapping genes, some even nested within the coding region of other known genes.

Conclusions

Our findings demonstrate that current Shigella genome annotation methods are not perfect and need to be improved. Apart from the validation of predicted genes at the protein level, the additional features of proteogenomic tools include revision of annotation errors and discovery of novel ORFs. The complementary dataset could provide more targets for those interested in Shigella to perform functional studies.
Evidence for widespread changes in promoter methylation profile in human placenta in response to increasing gestational age and environmental/stochastic factors
Authors: Novakovic Boris , Yuen Ryan K , Gordon Lavinia , Penaherrera Maria S , Sharkey Andrew , Moffett Ashley , Craig Jeffrey M , Robinson Wendy P , Saffery Richard
Published: October 2011

Background

The human placenta facilitates the exchange of nutrients, gas and waste between the fetal and maternal circulations. It also protects the fetus from the maternal immune response. Due to its role at the feto-maternal interface, the placenta is subject to many environmental exposures that can potentially alter its epigenetic profile. Previous studies have reported gene expression differences in placenta over gestation, as well as inter-individual variation in expression of some genes. However, the factors contributing to this variation in gene expression remain poorly understood.

Results

In this study, we performed a genome-wide DNA methylation analysis of gene promoters in placenta tissue from three pregnancy trimesters. We identified large-scale differences in DNA methylation levels between first, second and third trimesters, with an overall progressive increase in average methylation from first to third trimester. The most differentially methylated genes included many immune regulators, reflecting the change in placental immuno-modulation as pregnancy progresses. We also detected increased inter-individual variation in the third trimester relative to first and second, supporting an accumulation of environmentally induced (or stochastic) changes in DNA methylation pattern. These highly variable genes were enriched for those involved in amino acid and other metabolic pathways, potentially reflecting the adaptation of the human placenta to different environments.

Conclusions

The identification of cellular pathways subject to drift in response to environmental influences provide a basis for future studies examining the role of specific environmental factors on DNA methylation pattern and placenta-associated adverse pregnancy outcomes.
Niche differentiation of two sympatric species of Microdochium colonizing the roots of common reed
Authors: Ernst Michael , Neubert Karin , Mendgen Kurt W , Wirsel Stefan GR
Published: October 2011

Background

Fungal endophyte communities are often comprised of many species colonizing the same host. However, little is known about the causes of this diversity. On the one hand, the apparent coexistence of closely related species may be explained by the traditional niche differentiation hypothesis, which suggests that abiotic and/or biotic factors mediate partitioning. For endophytes, such factors are difficult to identify, and are therefore in most cases unknown. On the other hand, there is the neutral hypothesis, which suggests that stochastic factors may explain high species diversity. There is a need to investigate to what extent each of these hypotheses may apply to endophytes.

Results

The niche partitioning of two closely related fungal endophytes, Microdochium bolleyi and M. phragmitis, colonizing Phragmites australis, was investigated. The occurrences of each species were assessed using specific nested-PCR assays for 251 field samples of common reed from Lake Constance, Germany. These analyses revealed niche preferences for both fungi. From three niche factors assessed, i.e. host habitat, host organ and season, host habitat significantly differentiated the two species. M. bolleyi preferred dry habitats, whereas M. phragmitis prevailed in flooded habitats. In contrast, both species exhibited a significant preference for the same host organ, i.e. roots. Likewise the third factor, season, did not significantly distinguish the two species. Differences in carbon utilization and growth temperature could not conclusively explain the niches. The inclusion of three unrelated species of Ascomycota, which also colonize P. australis at the same locations, indicated spatio-temporal niche partitioning between all fungi. None of the species exhibited the same preferences for all three factors, i.e. host habitat, host organ, and time of the season.

Conclusions

The fungal species colonizing common reed investigated in this study seem to exploit niche differences leading to a separation in space and time, which may allow for their coexistence on the same host. A purely neutral model is unlikely to explain the coexistence of closely related endophytes on common reed.
Effects of substrate annealing on the gold-catalyzed growth of ZnO nanostructures
Authors: Weigand Christian C , Skåre Daniel , Ladam Cecile , Grepstad Jostein , Weman Helge
Published: October 2011

The effects of thermal substrate pretreatment on the growth of Au-catalyzed ZnO nanostructures by pulsed laser deposition are investigated. C-plane sapphire substrates are annealed prior to deposition of a thin Au layer. Subsequent ZnO growths on substrates annealed above 1,200°C resulted in a high density of nanosheets and nanowires, whereas lower temperatures led to low nanostructure densities. Separate Au film annealing experiments at 700°C showed little variation in the size and density of the Au catalyst droplets with substrate annealing temperature. The observed variation in the density of nanostructures is attributed to the number of surface nucleation sites on the substrate, leading to a competition between nucleation promoted by the Au catalyst and surface nucleation sites on the rougher surfaces annealed below 1,200°C.
A study of nitrogen incorporation in pyramidal site-controlled quantum dots
Authors: Juska Gediminas , Dimastrodonato Valeria , Mereni Lorenzo O , Gocalinska Agnieszka , Pelucchi Emanuele
Published: October 2011

We present the results of a study of nitrogen incorporation in metalorganic-vapour-phase epitaxy-grown site-controlled quantum dots (QDs). We report for the first time on a significant incorporation (approximately 0.3%), producing a noteworthy red shift (at least 50 meV) in some of our samples. Depending on the level of nitrogen incorporation/exposure, strong modifications of the optical features are found (variable distribution of the emission homogeneity, fine-structure splitting, few-particle effects). We discuss our results, especially in relation to a specific reproducible sample which has noticeable features: the usual pattern of the excitonic transitions is altered and the fine-structure splitting is suppressed to vanishing values. Distinctively, nitrogen incorporation can be achieved without detriment to the optical quality, as confirmed by narrow linewidths and photon correlation spectroscopy.
Compound Kushen Injection suppresses human breast cancer stem-like cells by down-regulating the canonical Wnt/β-catenin pathway
Authors: Xu Weiru , Lin Hongsheng , Zhang Ying , Chen Xinyi , Hua Baojin , Hou Wei , Qi Xin , Pei Yingxia , Zhu Xiaoyun , Zhao Zhizheng , Yang Liangliang
Published: October 2011

Background

Cancer stem cells (CSCs) play an important role in cancer initiation, relapse and metastasis. To date, no specific medicine has been found to target CSCs as they are resistant to most conventional therapies and proliferate indefinitely. Compound Kushen Injection (CKI) has been widely used for cancer patients with remarkable therapeutic effects in Chinese clinical settings for many years. This study focused on whether CKI could inhibit MCF-7 SP cells in vitro and in vivo.

Methods

The analysis of CKI on SP population and the main genes of Wnt signaling pathway were studied first. Then we studied the tumorigenicity of SP cells and the effects of CKI on SP cells in vivo. The mice inoculated with 10,000 SP cells were randomly divided into three groups (6 in each group) and treated with CKI, cisplatin and saline (as a control) respectively for 7 weeks. The tumor formation rates of each group were compared. The main genes and proteins of the Wnt signaling pathway were analyzed by RT-PCR and western blot.

Results

CKI suppressed the size of SP population (approximately 90%), and down-regulated the main genes of Wnt signaling pathway. We also determined that MCF-7 SP cells were more tumorigenic than non-SP and unsorted cells. The Wnt signaling pathway was up-regulated in tumors derived from SP cells compared with that in tumors from non-SP cells. The tumor formation rate of the CKI Group was 33% (2/6,P< 0.05), and that of Cisplatin Group was 50%(3/6,P< 0.05), whereas that of the Control Group was 100% (6/6).The RT-PCR and western blot results indicated that CKI suppressed tumor growth by down-regulating the Wnt/β-catenin pathway, while cisplatin activated the Wnt/β-catenin pathway and might spare SP cells.

Conclusions

It suggested that CKI may serve as a novel drug targeting cancer stem-like cells, though further studies are recommended.
Preferred movement patterns during a simple bouncing task
Authors: Raburn Caroline E. , Merritt Kristen J. , Dean Jesse C.
Published: October 2011

Elastic tissues in the human body can store and return mechanical energy passively, reducing the metabolic cost of cyclical movements. However, it is not clear whether humans prefer movement patterns that optimize this storage and return. We investigated the preferred movement pattern during a bouncing task for which non-invasive techniques can identify the resonant frequency, which is the least metabolically costly. We quantified the preferred and resonant bounce frequencies for three mechanical conditions. During 'normal' trials, subjects bounced while reclined on a sled that moves along a track. During 'added mass' trials, mass was added to the sled. During 'added stiffness' trials, a spring was attached between the sled and the supporting frame, parallel to the track. Subsequently, we quantified the preferred bounce frequencies during ischemia, a technique that disrupts the available sensory feedback. Mechanical condition had a significant effect on both the preferred and resonant frequencies. Changes in preferred frequency scaled with resonant frequency, but the preferred frequency was significantly lower than the resonant frequency. These results indicate that humans adapt their preferred bouncing pattern in response to changes in mechanical condition. Humans may prefer a lower than resonant frequency because of an inability to sense metabolic cost during our relatively short trials. In contrast, during ischemia the preferred bounce frequency remained constant even when mechanical condition was varied, indicating that feedback is necessary to adapt the preferred frequency to changes in mechanics. These findings suggest that disrupted sensory feedback may prevent humans from choosing the optimal movement pattern.
Inter-relationship between mitochondrial function and susceptibility to oxidative stress in red- and white-blooded Antarctic notothenioid fishes
Authors: Mueller Irina A. , Grim Jeffrey M. , Beers Jody M. , Crockett Elizabeth L. , O'Brien Kristin M.
Published: October 2011

It is unknown whether Antarctic fishes can defend themselves against oxidative stress induced by elevations in temperature. We hypothesized that Antarctic icefishes, lacking the oxygen-binding protein hemoglobin, might be more vulnerable to temperature-induced oxidative stress compared with red-blooded notothenioids because of differences in their mitochondrial properties. Mitochondria from icefishes have higher densities of phospholipids per mg of mitochondrial protein compared with red-blooded species, and these phospholipids are rich in polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA), which can promote the formation of reactive oxygen species (ROS). Additionally, previous studies have shown that multiple tissues in icefishes have lower levels of antioxidants compared with red-blooded species. We quantified several properties of mitochondria, including proton leak, rates of ROS production, membrane composition and susceptibility to lipid peroxidation (LPO), the activity of superoxide dismutase (SOD) and total antioxidant power (TAOP) in mitochondria isolated from hearts of icefishes and red-blooded notothenioids. Mitochondria from icefishes were more tightly coupled than those of red-blooded fishes at both 2°C and 10°C, which increased the production of ROS when the electron transport chain was disrupted. The activity of SOD and TAOP per mg of mitochondrial protein was equivalent between icefishes and red-blooded species, but TAOP normalized to mitochondrial phospholipid content was significantly lower in icefishes compared with red-blooded fishes. Additionally, membrane susceptibility to peroxidation was only detectable in icefishes at 1°C and not in red-blooded species. Together, our results suggest that the high density of mitochondrial phospholipids in hearts of icefishes may make them particularly vulnerable to oxidative stress as temperatures rise.
Concise Synthesis of β,β-Diaryl Esters and Ketones from Ethynylcarbonyl Compounds by Rhodium-catalyzed Double Arylation with Arylboroxins
Authors: Nishimura Takahiro , Noishiki Akira , Hayashi Tamio
Published: October 2011

3,3-Diarylpropanoate esters were prepared from tert-butyl propiolate and arylboroxins in high yields through the rhodium-catalyzed double arylation of β-alkoxyacrylate, which was generated in situ from tert-butyl propiolate and 2,2,2-trifluoroethanol. The present method was also successfully applied to the double arylation of ethynyl ketones.
Self-organized Structure Generated by Molecular Symmetry/Asymmetry Regulation
Authors: Kaneda Keisuke , Shikinaka Kazuhiro , Fujii Nozomu , Noguchi Keiichi , Masai Eiji , Katayama Yoshihiro , Nakamura Masaya , Otsuka Yuichiro , Ohara Seiji , Shigehara Kiyotaka
Published: October 2011

The self-organization of polyfunctional molecules, leading to specific molecular assemblies, is often determined by the molecular symmetry/asymmetry of constitution. By using structurally isomeric pyronedicarboxylic acids, the molecular symmetry/asymmetry was revealed to discriminate the structure and the thermodynamic stability of self-organized architecture.
Universal Tool for Vaccine Scheduling: Applications for Children and Adults
Authors: Smalley Hannah K. , Keskinocak Pinar , Engineer Faramroze G. , Pickering Larry K.
Published: October 2011

To improve coverage against vaccine-preventable diseases for children and adults, and to aid caretakers and providers in making appropriate and timely vaccination decisions, Georgia Institute of Technology collaborated with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention to develop decision support tools for creating optimized catch-up immunization schedules for four target groups: children through age 6, adolescents ages 7 through 18, adults ages 19 and over in the United States, and children and adolescents through age 19 in Canada.

Our solution to the catch-up scheduling problem for each targeted group determines the best coverage schedule for each individual given his (her) vaccination history and age. If an individual misses one or more doses of a recommended vaccine, a health-care professional is typically responsible for generating a feasible catch-up schedule that optimizes the person's coverage against vaccine-preventable diseases, a task that is often challenging and time consuming. Inappropriate schedules could prevent some individuals from being vaccinated in a timely manner, potentially increasing their risk of contracting a disease.

Each decision support tool uses a dynamic programming algorithm to construct recommended immunization schedules in an optimized manner. These tools simplify the tedious process of manually constructing immunization schedules, expedite the process, and eliminate errors.
Cytologic Features of Epithelioid Hemangioendothelioma
Authors: Murali Rajmohan , Zarka Matthew A. , Ocal Idris T. , Tazelaar Henry D.
Published: October 2011

To determine cytologic features of epithelioid hemangioendothelioma (EHE) that would enable accurate diagnosis, we evaluated fine-needle aspiration biopsy (FNAB) smears from 11 histologically confirmed EHEs. The variably cellular smears comprised dispersed single cells and occasional cell aggregates. Dense stromal fragments were present in association with some tissue fragments. The cells were epithelioid, containing moderate or large amounts of dense cytoplasm. Nuclei exhibited mild pleomorphism, and nuclear grooves were identified in all cases. At least occasional intranuclear pseudoinclusions (INPIs) and intracytoplasmic lumina (ICLs) were present in all cases and in 9 cases (82%), respectively, and rare erythrocytes were seen within ICLs in 5 cases (45%). Mitotic figures were identified in 4 cases (36%). The background was bloody in 6 cases (55%) and contained hemosiderin and/or hemosiderin-laden macrophages in 5 cases (45%). The combination of the following features in FNAB samples should raise strong suspicion for EHE: predominantly dispersed single cells with occasional cohesive cell clusters; epithelioid cytomorphology; dense cytoplasm with well-defined cytoplasmic borders; ICLs (with or without erythrocytes), INPIs, and nuclear grooves. The presence of these features should prompt correlation with clinical, radiologic, and histologic features and immunohistochemical evaluation using vascular markers.
Analysis of Proinflammatory and Anti-Inflammatory Cytokine Serum Concentrations in Patients With Multiple Sclerosis by Using a Multiplexed Immunoassay
Authors: Martins Thomas B. , Rose John W. , Jaskowski Troy D. , Wilson Andrew R. , Husebye Dee , Seraj Hanieh S. , Hill Harry R.
Published: October 2011

We examined cytokines and other inflammatory markers in serum samples from 833 patients with multiple sclerosis and 117 healthy control subjects. A multiplexed immunoassay was used to assess the concentrations of 13 cytokines/inflammatory markers: interferon (IFN)-γ; interleukins (ILs)-1β, 2, 4, 5, 6, 8, 10, 12, and 13; tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α; IL-2 receptor; and soluble CD40 ligand. Significant increases between patients and control subjects were found for IFN-γ (mean, 7.5 vs 0.4 pg/mL; P = .0002), IL-2 (mean 5.7 vs 1.0 pg/mL; P =.0002), IL-1β (mean, 23.0 vs 11.3 pg/mL; P ≤ .0001), TNF-α (mean, 4.1 vs 1.2 pg/mL; P = .01), IL-4 (mean, 1.4 vs 0.1 pg/mL; P ≤ .0001), IL-10 (mean, 16.8 vs 7.5 pg/mL; P = .03), and IL-13 (mean, 4.5 vs 0.8 pg/mL; P ≤ .0001). Profiling cytokines in multiple sclerosis may help to identify mechanisms involved in the pathogenesis of the disease, aid in monitoring the disease course and in evaluating responses to specific therapies, and, potentially, lead to new therapies directed at cytokines or their receptors.
Computation of Interaural Time Difference in the Owl's Coincidence Detector Neurons
Authors: Funabiki Kazuo , Ashida Go , Konishi Masakazu
Published: October 2011

Both the mammalian and avian auditory systems localize sound sources by computing the interaural time difference (ITD) with submillisecond accuracy. The neural circuits for this computation in birds consist of axonal delay lines and coincidence detector neurons. Here, we report the firstin vivointracellular recordings from coincidence detectors in the nucleus laminaris of barn owls. Binaural tonal stimuli induced sustained depolarizations (DC) and oscillating potentials whose waveforms reflected the stimulus. The amplitude of this sound analog potential (SAP) varied with ITD, whereas DC potentials did not. The amplitude of the SAP was correlated with firing rate in a linear fashion. Spike shape, synaptic noise, the amplitude of SAP, and responsiveness to current pulses differed between cells at different frequencies, suggesting an optimization strategy for sensing sound signals in neurons tuned to different frequencies.
Somatic Membrane Potential and Kv1 Channels Control Spike Repolarization in Cortical Axon Collaterals and Presynaptic Boutons
Authors: Foust Amanda J. , Yu Yuguo , Popovic Marko , Zecevic Dejan , McCormick David A.
Published: October 2011

The shape of action potentials invading presynaptic terminals, which can vary significantly from spike waveforms recorded at the soma, may critically influence the probability of synaptic neurotransmitter release. Revealing the conductances that determine spike shape in presynaptic boutons is important for understanding how changes in the electrochemical context in which a spike is generated, such as subthreshold depolarization spreading from the soma, can modulate synaptic strength. Utilizing recent improvements in the signal-to-noise ratio of voltage-sensitive dye imaging in mouse brain slices, we demonstrate that intracortical axon collaterals anden passantpresynaptic terminals of layer 5 pyramidal cells exhibit a high density of Kv1 subunit-containing ion channels, which generate a slowly inactivating K+current critically important for spike repolarization in these compartments. Blockade of the current by low doses of 4-aminopyridine or α-dendrotoxin dramatically slows the falling phase of action potentials in axon collaterals and presynaptic boutons. Furthermore, subthreshold depolarization of the soma broadened action potentials in collaterals bearing presynaptic boutons, an effect abolished by blocking Kv1 channels with α-dendrotoxin. These results indicate that action potential-induced synaptic transmission may operate through a mix of analog–digital transmission owing to the properties of Kv1 channels in axon collaterals and presynaptic boutons.
Bmal1in the Nervous System Is Essential for Normal Adaptation of Circadian Locomotor Activity and Food Intake to Periodic Feeding
Authors: Mieda Michihiro , Sakurai Takeshi
Published: October 2011

Temporal restriction of feeding can entrain circadian behavioral and physiological rhythms in mammals. These changes in biological rhythms are postulated to be brought about by a putative food-entrainable oscillator (FEO) that is independent of the suprachiasmatic nucleus (SCN). However, the anatomical substrates and molecular machinery of FEO remain elusive. We report here that mice with a nervous system-specific deletion ofBmal1, an essential clock component, had a marked deficit in entrainment of locomotor activity by periodic feeding, accompanied by reduced food intake and subsequent loss of body weight. These mice exhibited a nearly normal light-entrainable activity rhythm driven by the SCN, because deletion of theBmal1gene in the SCN was only partial. These findings suggest that an SCN-independent FEO in the nervous system requiresBmal1and plays a critical role in adaptation of circadian locomotor activity and food intake to periodic feeding.
Expansion of MT Neurons Excitatory Receptive Fields during Covert Attentive Tracking
Authors: Niebergall Robert , Khayat Paul S. , Treue Stefan , Martinez-Trujillo Julio C.
Published: October 2011

Primates can attentively track moving objects while keeping gaze stationary. The neural mechanisms underlying this ability are poorly understood. We investigated this issue by recording responses of neurons in area MT of two rhesus monkeys while they performed two different tasks. During the Attend-Fixation task, two moving random dot patterns (RDPs) translated across a screen at the same speed and in the same direction while the animals directed gaze to a fixation spot and detected a change in its luminance. During the Tracking task, the animals kept gaze on the fixation spot and attentively tracked the two RDPs to report a change in the local speed of one of the patterns' dots. In both conditions, neuronal responses progressively increased as the RDPs entered the neurons' receptive field (RF), peaked when they reached its center, and decreased as they translated away. This response profile was well described by a Gaussian function with its center of gravity indicating the RF center and its flanks the RF excitatory borders. During Tracking, responses were increased relative to Attend-Fixation, causing the Gaussian profiles to expand. Such increases were proportionally larger in the RF periphery than at its center, and were accompanied by a decrease in the trial-to-trial response variability (Fano factor) relative to Attend-Fixation. These changes resulted in an increase in the neurons' performance at detecting targets at longer distances from the RF center. Our results show that attentive tracking dynamically changes MT neurons' RF profiles, ultimately improving the neurons' ability to encode the tracked stimulus features.
The Fear Circuit Revisited: Contributions of the Basal Amygdala Nuclei to Conditioned Fear
Authors: Amano Taiju , Duvarci Sevil , Popa Daniela , Paré Denis
Published: October 2011

The lateral nucleus (LA) is the input station of the amygdala for information about conditioned stimuli (CSs), whereas the medial sector of the central nucleus (CeM) is the output region that contributes most amygdala projections to brainstem fear effectors. However, there are no direct links between LA and CeM. As the main target of LA and with its strong projection to CeM, the basomedial amygdala (BM) constitutes a good candidate to bridge this gap. Consistent with this notion, it was reported that combined posttraining lesions of the basal nuclei [BM plus basolateral nucleus (BL)] abolish conditioned fear responses, whereas selective BL inactivation does not. Thus, we examined the relative contribution of BM and BL to conditioned fear using unit recordings and inactivation with muscimol microinfusions in rats. Approximately 30% of BM and BL neurons acquired robust responses to auditory CSs predicting footshocks. While most BL cells stopped firing at CS offset, BM responses typically outlasted the CS by ≥40 s, paralleling the persistence of conditioned fear after the CS. This observation suggests that BM neurons are not passive relays of rapidly adapting LA inputs about the CS. Surprisingly, independent inactivation of either BM or BL with muscimol did not cause a reduction of conditioned freezing even though an extinction recall deficit was seen the next day. In contrast, combined BL–BM inactivation did. Overall, there results support the notion that the basal nuclei are involved in conditioned fear expression and extinction but that there is functional redundancy between them.
Antiochus III: A Friend and Ally of the Roman People
Authors: Dmitriev Sviatoslav
Published: October 2011

By giving Antiochus III the status of a “friend and ally of the Roman people”, the Romans drew him into the framework of their diplomacy, thus making him liable for observing Roman diplomatic principles and practices. This follows from the Roman understanding that Roman friends were obliged to have the same friends and enemies as the Romans and, therefore, to refrain from attacking other Roman friends. The Romans applied this system in both the west and the east. It is erroneous, therefore, to say that the Roman approach to friendship changed once the Romans moved into the eastern Mediterranean, particularly in connection with the Illyrian wars, as some have argued. Nor is it viable to view Roman friends as Roman clients, because having a client required a commitment, whereas Rome had no obligations to her friends unless – for specific reasons, which are also examined in this article – she made treaties with them.
Standing Wave Interferometer with Stabilization of Wavelength on Air
Authors: Lazar Josef , Cip Ondrej , Cízek Martin , Hrabina Jan , Buchta Zdenek
Published: October 2011

We present an experimental arrangement of an interferometric system designed to operate with full compensation for varying refractive index of air in the measuring axis. The concept is based on a principle where the wavelength of the laser source is derived not from an optical frequency of the stabilized laser but from a fixed length being a base-plate or a frame of the whole measuring setup. This results into stabilization of the wavelength of the laser source in atmospheric conditions to mechanical length of suitable etalon made of a material with very low thermal expansion. The ultra-low thermal expanding glass ceramic materials available on the market perform thermal expansion coefficients on the level 10−8 which significantly exceeds the limits of uncertainty posed by indirect evaluation of refractive index of air through Edlen formula. This approach represents a contribution primarily to high-resolution and high-precision dimensional metrology in the nanoscale.
Interferometric Technique to Characterize Optical Fibres and Interrogate Guided-Wave-Based Micro-Resonator-Sensors
Authors: Obaton Anne-Francoise , Dubard Jimmy
Published: October 2011

In the frame of development of new reference techniques, LNE has developed a Phase sensitive-Optical Low Coherence Reflectometer dedicated to the characterization of optical fibres less than one meter long and to the interrogation of guided-wave-based biosensors. Thus this technique is within the fields of optical telecommunication and biological applications. In this context: standard fibres, Bragg gratings, specialty fibres such as photonic crystal fibres and sensors made of micro-resonators have been studied. This tool has proven to be very performing as it gives relevant parameters with low uncertainty on components not accessible with other techniques or needed several different techniques. The setup is presented as well as the results of particular interest obtained on optical waveguides in the telecommunication and biological domains.
Investigation, Design and Practical Testing of LED Linear Light as an Alternative to a Laser Line Generator
Authors: Rückwardt Matthias , Göpfert Andre , Rosenberger Maik , Linß Gerhard , Kienast Sascha
Published: October 2011

An interesting option for 3D object recognition is the triangulation principle. For this purpose a laser line generator is often used. But other structured linear light sources are also possible. For this the linear light has to have a defined width, brightness and sharpness. The linear light on the object, e. g. a groove, is changed by the object´s surface and is detected by digital image processing. Until now such linear light has been created with the help of a complex visual system using laser diodes. Because of some optical disadvantages of laser light, like speckles, in optical measurement applications, this paper examines the effect of using a structured LED light source instead of the laser generator. Consequently, the focus of this research lies on the necessary width, brightness, sharpness, length and depth of focus of the linear light generated by a LED light source for high-precision measuring. This research has been carried out by extensive computer-aided simulations. Several solutions are given and assessed in this paper.
A Robust Achromatic DSPI Interferometer for Measurement in Polar Coordinates
Authors: Albertazzi Jr. Armando G. , Viotti Matias R. , Kapp Walter A.
Published: October 2011

This paper presents a new concept of a digital speckle pattern interferometer with radial in-plane sensitivity. The interferometer uses a special diffractive optical element and a particular design that makes it non sensitive to laser wavelength. A compact design makes it robust enough to be used for in-field measurement. Applications of this interferometer to build robust devices for 2D displacement, mechanical stresses and residual stresses measurement are presented in this paper.
THz Imaging System Based on THz-to-IR Converter
Authors: Kuznetsov Sergey A. , Paulish Andrey G. , Gelfand Alexander V. , Lazorskiy Pavel A. , Fedorinin Victor N. , Arzhannikov Andrey V.
Published: October 2011

The simple and flexible bolometric system for THz imaging employing the scheme of terahertz-to-IR conversion is described. In the proposed scheme the terahertz waves are absorbed by high-performance ultra- thin THz absorbers which thermal heating is detected by a conventional IR camera. The absorbers are implemented on basis of artificial impedance surfaces (AIS) with thickness 1/50th–1/40th of the operating free-space wavelength, which are designed for close to unity absorptivity in the range 0.3–0.4 THz at high spectral and polarization resolution. The general strategy for realizing ultrathin AIS-absorbers applicable to selective bolometric devices is considered. The proposed approach is tested in experiments on real-time THz imaging using a backward-wave THz oscillator with 3–10 mW output radiation power.
Hungarian adaptation of the Pediatric Quality of Life Inventory™ 3.0 Diabetes Module
Authors: Lukács Andrea , Simon Nóra , Varga Beatrix , Kiss-Tóth Emőke , Barkai László
Published: October 2011

Due to the lack of validated age- and disease-specific instruments, there are limited health-related quality of life measurements in type 1 diabetes youths in Hungary. Objective: To culturally adapt the Pediatric Quality of Life Inventory™ 3.0 Diabetes Module. Method: Feasibility, internal consistency reliability, reproducibility, convergent, discriminant and concurrent validities were evaluated in 134 type 1 diabetes youths. Results: Low scale-level mean percentage of missing item responses, minimal floor and moderate ceiling effects supported the feasibility. Cronbach α exceeded the internal consistency reliability standard of 0.70. Concordance between the children’s and the parents’ reports was strong. The instrument differentiated between the quality of life of patients having acceptable and poor metabolic control. Intercorrelations between the Generic Module and Diabetes Module had moderate to large effect sizes. Conclusions: The results demonstrate the feasibility, reliability and validity of the instrument, but further research should be carried out for generalization for Hungarian population. Orv. Hetil., 2011, 152, 1837–1842.
Performance evaluation of neutron detectors incorporating intrinsic Gd using a GEANT4 modeling approach
Authors: Bickley Abigail A. , Young Christopher , Thomas Benjamin , McClory John W. , Dowben Peter A. , Petrosky James C.
Published: October 2011

Solid-state neutron detectors from heterostructures that incorporate Gd intrinsically or as a dopant may significantly benefit from the high thermal neutron capture cross section of gadolinium. Semiconducting devices with Gd atoms can act as a neutron capture medium and simultaneously detect the electronic signal that characterizes the interaction. Neutron capture in natural isotopic abundance gadolinium predominantly occurs via the formation of 158mGd, which decays to the ground state through the emission of high-energy gamma rays and an internal conversion electron. Detection of the internal conversion electron and/or the subsequent Auger electron emission provides a distinct and identifiable signature that neutron capture has occurred. Ensuring that the medium responds to these emissions is imperative to maximizing the efficiency and separating out other interactions from the radiation environment. A GEANT4 model, which includes incorporation of the nuclear structure of Gd, has been constructed to simulate the expected device behavior. This model allows the energy deposited from the decay of the meta-stable state to be localized and transported, providing for analysis of various device parameters. Device fabrication has been completed for Gd doped HfO2 on n-type silicon, Gd2O3 on p-type silicon and Gd2O3 on SiC for validation of the code. A preliminary evaluation of neutron detection capabilities of these devices using a GEANT4 modeling approach is presented.
Elastic Heterophase Domains in Ferroelectric Epitaxial Films
Authors: Roytburd A. L. , Ouyang J. , Boyerinas B. M. , Bruck H. A. , Slutsker J. , Artemev A.
Published: October 2011

A heterophase polydomain structure has been recently discovered in BiFeO3 epitaxial ferroelectric films, which provides large electromechanical responses. In this work, the formation of such a microstructure is explained by theory of elastic domains. The thermodynamics of the heterophase polydomain microstructure is analyzed to predict the equilibrium volume fraction of domains at different film-substrate lattice misfits. Extrinsic mechanical and piezoelectric properties are discussed for the heterophase polydomains. It is shown that an applied electric field, which increases electrostatic interaction between domains, may lead to dramatic increase of piezo response. The results of this work are in good agreement with experimental data for BiFeO3.
Infecção pelo HIV-1 após acidente ocupacional, no Estado do Amazonas: primeiro caso documentado
Authors: Lucena Noaldo Oliveira de , Pereira Flávio Ribeiro , Barros Flávio Silveira de , Silva Nélson Barbosa da , Alexandre Márcia Almeida de Araújo , Castilho Márcia da Costa , Alecrim Maria das Graças Costa
Published: October 2011

O atendimento de acidentes ocupacionais na Fundação de Medicina Tropical Dr. Heitor Dourado (FMT- HVD), envolvendo sangue e fluídos corpóreos, iniciou-se de forma rotineira em 1999. O objetivo deste relato é enfatizar a importância da utilização de medidas para o controle dos acidentes com material biológico. Após investigação epidemiológica detalhada, confirmamos um caso de soroconversão ao vírus da imunodeficiência humana (HIV) após acidente ocupacional, envolvendo fluído corpóreo e perfurocortante.
A abordagem à família na Estratégia Saúde da Família: uma revisão integrativa da literatura
Authors: Silva Mariana Cristina Lobato dos Santos Ribeiro , Silva Lucía , Bousso Regina Szylit
Published: October 2011

Atualmente, a ideia de que as condições de saúde-doença dos membros da família e a família como unidade influenciam-se mutuamente já é consolidada. Atuar em saúde tendo como objeto do cuidado a família é uma forma de reversão do modelo hegemônico voltado à doença, que fragmenta o indivíduo e separa-o de seu contexto e de seus valores socioculturais. A Estratégia Saúde da Família (ESF) foi implantada para reorganizar o Sistema Único de Saúde, e nela cada equipe é levada a conhecer a realidade das famílias pelas quais é responsável. Nesse sentido, elaborou-se uma revisão integrativa da literatura com o objetivo de identificar o conceito de família e os fatores associados à abordagem familiar na ESF. Foram identificados aspectos que contribuem para a manutenção da abordagem fragmentada na ESF, assim como aspectos que podem contribuir para a superação em direção a um modelo de abordagem com foco na família.
Changes caused by hidrocephalus, induced by kaolin, in the corpus callosum of adult dogs
Authors: Cardoso Edvaldo José Rodrigues , Lachat João José , Lopes Luiza Silva , Santos Antonio Carlos dos , Colli Benedicto Oscar
Published: October 2011

PURPOSE: To analyze the ventricular enlargement and myelination of the corpus callosum in adult dogs after four and eight weeks of kaolin-induction of hydrocephalus. METHODS: 36 dogs were randomly divided into 3 groups: 1 - without hydrocephalus, 2 - kaolin-induction of hydrocephalus until the fourth week, and 3 - kaolin-induction of hydrocephalus until the eighth week. Ventricular ratios and volumes were calculated using magnetic resonance images, and myelination of the corpus callosum were histologically evaluated using solocromo-cianin stain. RESULTS: Radiological hydrocephalus was observed in 93.75% and overall mortality was 38.4%. Ventricular volumes and ratios were higher in groups 2 and 3 compared to group 1 and similar when measures in the fourth and eighth weeks were compared in the group 3. Indices of luminescence in the knee and in the splenium of the corpus callosum were higher in group 2 than in group 1 indicating that there was loss of myelin in group 2, and similar in groups 1 and 3, showing a tendency to remyelination after 8 weeks. CONCLUSION: The corpus callosum of dogs with kaolin-induced hydrocephalus responds with demyelination of the knee and splenium by the fourth week with a tendency to remyelination by the eighth week.
Molars extraction for bone graft study in rabbits
Authors: Manso José Eduardo Ferreira , Mourão Carlos Fernando de Almeida Barros , Pinheiro Flávio Alexandre Lima , Ferreira Manoel Luiz , Silva Paulo César , Schanaider Alberto
Published: October 2011

PURPOSE: The aim of this study was to describe an experimental surgical technique to be used in the evaluation of bone grafts in rabbits. METHODS: The operative technique was performed in jaws, with external approach from the labial commissure to the last molar tooth. An incision about 1cm extended forward to the alveolar ridge, followed by a exposing the cervical region of the alveolar bone and dental elements was done. Thus, after extraction of first molar with forceps, the tooth socket left was filled with hydroxyapatite. The bone gain was analyzed by histopathological studies. RESULTS: The histological analyses indicated formed bone surrounding the biomaterial. CONCLUSION: The experimental model using the tooth socket of the rabbit molar is a feasible procedure for studies of bone grafts.
Study on adhesion formation and the healing of colon anastomosis in rats with induced peritoneal sepsis
Authors: Silva Silvana Marques e , Oliveira Marcos Vinícius Melo de , Brandão Alexandre Malta , Carneiro Fabiana Pirani , Ferreira Vânia Maria Moraes , Parra Rogério Serafim , Feres Omar , Sousa João Batista de
Published: October 2011

PURPOSE: To evaluate the effects of abdominal sepsis on adhesion formation and colon anastomosis healing in rats. METHODS: Forty rats were distributed in two groups containing 20 rats each for left colon anastomosis in the presence (Group S) or absence (Group N) of induced sepsis by cecal ligation and puncture. Each group was divided into subgroups for euthanasia on the third (N3 and S3) or seventh (N7 or S7) post-operative day. The amount of adhesions was evaluated and a segment of the colon was removed for histopathologic analysis, bursting strength assessment, hydroxyproline and the determination of tissue collagen. RESULTS: The subjects which underwent cecal ligation and puncture presented a higher amount of intra-abdominal adherences in both third (p=0,00) and seventh (p=0,00) post-operatory days. Smaller bursting strengths were found in the S3 subgroup, and greater bursting strengths were found in the S7 subgroup. There was no difference in the variations on the concentrations of hydroxyproline, tissue collagen and histopathology. CONCLUSIONS: The peritoneal infection which was developed by cecal ligation and puncture raised the amount of intra-cavitary adhesions. There was a decrease in the amount of colonic anastomosis on the third post-operatory day with a following raise on the seventh without any effects on other healing parameters.
Mulheres cuidadoras de homens com doença renal crônica: uma abordagem cultural
Authors: Thomé Elisabeth Gomes da Rocha , Meyer Dagmar Elisabeth Estermann
Published: October 2011

Este artigo discute e problematiza processos de cuidar de homens com doença renal crônica, nos quais se constituem identidades cuidadoras. Desdobra-se de uma pesquisa qualitativa, realizada na Clínica de Hemodiálise do Hospital de Clínicas de Porto Alegre-RS. Neste trabalho, analisam-se entrevistas semiestruturadas realizadas com dez cuidadoras, na perspectiva da teorização cultural pós-crítica. Dessas entrevistas focalizam-se: impactos na saúde física e mental, formas de lidar com a dependência crescente do homem do qual cuidam, reconfigurações de seus relacionamentos afetivos, sentimentos de esperança/desesperança, alegria/raiva, dentre outros. As análises realizadas permitem argumentar que, em suas falas, as cuidadoras mobilizam representações de gênero que instituem o cuidado como essência e como destino de mulheres, ao mesmo tempo em que, no processo de cuidar, elas ressignificam a si mesmas e ao seu meio social e cultural.
Depression prevalence in Intensive Care Unit nursing workers: a study at hospitals in a northwestern city of São Paulo State
Authors: Vargas Divane de , Dias Ana Paula Vieira
Published: October 2011

This study aimed to estimate the prevalence of depression in nursing staff working in Intensive Care Units of hospitals from a city in Northwestern São Paulo State - Brazil, examining its association with participants' socio-demographic characteristics. The Beck Depression Inventory was applied to a sample of 67 nursing workers from three general hospitals, showing an 28.4% prevalence of depression. The analysis based on the multiple model showed a significant association between depression and marital status (OR=1.52), night work (OR=1.46) and double shifts (OR=2.11). Also, there were significant percentages of workers who reported discouragement, sadness and hopelessness. In conclusion, the prevalence of depression is significant and more attention should be paid to this problem workers at these units face. Further studies are needed in the attempt to broaden knowledge on the subject, which can support strategies to guarantee attention to ICU nursing workers' physical and mental health needs.