bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
The mechanics of the gibbon foot and its potential for elastic energy storage during bipedalism
Authors: Vereecke Evie E. , Aerts Peter 
Published: November 2008

SUMMARYThe mechanics of the modern human foot and its specialization for habitual bipedalism are well understood. The windlass mechanism gives it the required stability for propulsion generation, and flattening of the arch and stretching of the plantar aponeurosis leads to energy saving. What is less well understood is how an essentially flat and mobile foot, as found in protohominins and extant apes, functions during bipedalism. This study evaluates the hypothesis that an energy-saving mechanism, by stretch and recoil of plantar connective tissues, is present in the mobile gibbon foot and provides a two-dimensional analysis of the internal joint mechanics of the foot during spontaneous bipedalism of gibbons using a four-link segment foot model. Available force and pressure data are combined with detailed foot kinematics, recorded with a high-speed camera at 250 Hz, to calculate the external joint moments at the metatarsophalangeal (MP), tarsometatarsal (TM)and talocrural (TC) joints. In addition, instantaneous joint powers are estimated to obtain insight into the propulsion-generating capacities of the internal foot joints. It is found that, next to a wide range of motion at the TC joint, substantial motion is observed at the TM and MP joint, underlining the importance of using a multi-segment foot model in primate gait analyses. More importantly, however, this study shows that although a compliant foot is less mechanically effective for push-off than a `rigid' arched foot, it can contribute to the generation of propulsion in bipedal locomotion viastretch and recoil of the plantarflexor tendons and plantar ligaments.
Low metabolic cost of locomotion in ornate box turtles,Terrapene ornata
Authors: Zani Peter A. , Kram Rodger 
Published: November 2008

SUMMARYEvolution has produced a wide range of body plans, but for a given body mass, the energetic cost of transport (COT) of terrestrial animals falls in a relatively narrow range. Previous research indicates that the COT depends on the proficiency of minimizing mechanical work performed, efficiency of performing that work, and cost of generating force to support weight. Turtles are unique in that their protective shell and shoulder-girdle articulation may eliminate the need for the `muscular sling'. In addition, turtles have slower,more efficient muscles than other vertebrates. However, slow locomotion may raise the COT by confounding mechanical-energy conservation via the inverted-pendulum mechanism. Our goal was to determine the metabolic COT and efficiency of a terrestrial turtle species during locomotion. We studied 18 ornate box turtles, Terrapene ornata. Walking speed was extremely slow (0.07±0.005 m s–1). The average minimum COT was 8.0±0.70 J kg–1 m–1 attained at∼0.1 m s–1. Ornate box turtles consume only half the energy predicted by the allometric relationship for all terrestrial animals(15.9±0.35 J kg–1 m–1), and, thus,appear to be very economical walkers. When walking up a 24 deg. incline turtles moved significantly slower (0.04±0.004 m s–1),but performed the extra work required to walk uphill with very high efficiencies (&gt;49%). It appears that the co-evolution of a protective shell, the associated shoulder morphology, and very slow, efficient muscles produce both economical level walking and efficient uphill walking.
The effect of humidity on the fracture properties of human fingernails
Authors: Farran Laura , Ennos A. Roland , Eichhorn Stephen J. 
Published: November 2008

SUMMARYFingernails are a characteristic anatomical feature of primates and their function is dictated by the environment in which they are utilised. The present study examined the mechanical properties of human fingernails as a function of relative humidity (RH) and the subsequent moisture content of the nail material. Nail clippings were stored at a range of RH values and then weighed in order to determine their moisture content. There was a non-linear relationship between the moisture content of nails and the RH of their local environment. The in vivo moisture content of nails, measured from 55%to 80% RH, was between 14% and 30%, similar to other keratinous materials such as claws, hooves and feathers. Cutting tests on the nail samples showed that the work of fracture was between 11 and 22 kJ m–2, rising to a peak at 55% RH and falling at higher and lower humidities. At all RH values there was anisotropy within the nail between the proximal and lateral directions, the work of fracture being greater proximally. This anisotropy was greatest at 55% RH, at which point the proximal work of fracture was double the lateral value. These results suggest that the mechanical behaviour of human fingernails is optimised at in vivo conditions; they resist tearing most strongly under these conditions and particularly resist tearing into the nail bed. At more extreme humidity levels the fracture properties of the nail deteriorate; they are brittle when fully dry and fracture and split when wet.
Characteristics of refrigeration systems — extension of the graphical—analytical method
Authors: Sulc V , Berge J B 
Published: November 2008

Several different system balance methods and programmes have been developed and used for decades in the refrigeration industry to design refrigeration circuits and components. One of the oldest methods is the graphical—analytical method, developed and used long before computers and even calculators became standard engineering tools. The method is relatively easy and it helps to design and choose proper components. It can be successfully used today in the computer age for a better understanding of the refrigeration system behaviour, enabling the designer to see and evaluate major components, system characteristics, and system trends. This article will introduce the graphical—analytical method for the simplest refrigeration systems and later extend it to more complex refrigeration systems.
Characteristics and Perspectives of Wind Energy in Morocco
Authors: Nfaoui H. , Essiarab H. , Sayigh A. 
Published: November 2008

Morocco depends on 85% foreign sources of its energy supply. The oil invoice accounts for nearly 22.3% income from exports. In Morocco, the use of wind energy began before 1930, through the importation of windmills from USA by the French colony, to pump water for livestock and population in the country. An estimated 1000 of these units were in use in Morocco [1]. Following the rising price of oil after the first oil-price shock in the early 1970s, the days of cheap and plentiful petroleum were drawing to an end. Morocco began to promote and develop renewable energy mainly solar energy. Wind energy is the most promising alternative energy resource in Morocco because of its good geographic location (3446 km of coast, Straits of Gibraltar, Rif and Atlas Mountain at 4167 metres and the Taza corridor) which permits Morocco to have available the largest wind potential in the North Africa. At 10 m, the annual mean wind speed can reach 11m/s in the Tetouan region and 8 m/s in the Dakhla site. The Moroccan wind potential is estimated at 21,000MW. In the framework of diversification of national energy resources, various actions have been taken for the use of wind energy as a national energy resource. It is mainly about: Since wind energy is economic on windy sites and the capital costs are continue to decline with the move to larger wind turbines [2,3], the Moroccan government has set a target of achieving 20% of its electricity supply from wind energy by 2020. It has started to pay attention to developing its indigenous wind energy resources and has encouraged wind technology transfer from other countries. On top of that, wind energy could have a significant and beneficial impact on the environment, particularly with regard to the greenhouse effect. - Diversifying the actors, both public and private, - Concluding consessional contracts between the National Office of Electricity (ONE) and private electricity producers using wind energy to satisfy theirs own needs, - Increasing the autoproduction threshold to 50MW with the aim of installing 1000MW by modifying the laws governing the electricity production.
Fibroblast-Derived Induced Pluripotent Stem Cells Show No Common Retroviral Vector Insertions
Authors: Varas Florencio , Stadtfeld Matthias , de Andres-Aguayo Luisa , Maherali Nimet , di Tullio Alessandro , Pantano Lorena , Notredame Cedric , Hochedlinger Konrad , Graf Thomas 
Published: November 2008

Abstract
Several laboratories have reported the reprogramming of mouse and human fibroblasts into pluripotent cells, using retroviruses carrying the Oct4, Sox2, Klf4, and c-Myc transcription factor genes. In these experiments the frequency of reprogramming was lower than 0.1% of the infected cells, raising the possibility that additional events are required to induce reprogramming, such as activation of genes triggered by retroviral insertions. We have therefore determined by ligation-mediated polymerase chain reaction (LM-PCR) the retroviral insertion sites in six induced pluripotent stem (iPS) cell clones derived from mouse fibroblasts. Seventy-nine insertion sites were assigned to a single mouse genome location. Thirty-five of these mapped to gene transcription units, whereas 29 insertions landed within 10 kilobases of transcription start sites. No common insertion site was detected among the iPS clones studied. Moreover, bioinformatics analyses revealed no enrichment of a specific gene function, network, or pathway among genes targeted by retroviral insertions. We conclude that Oct4, Sox2, Klf4, and c-Myc are sufficient to promote fibroblast-to-iPS cell reprogramming and propose that the observed low reprogramming frequencies may have alternative explanations.
Out Yonder: Sexual-Minority Adolescents in Rural Communities in British Columbia
Authors: Poon Colleen S. , Saewyc Elizabeth M. 
Published: November 2008

Objectives. We compared sexual-minority adolescents living in rural communities with their peers in urban areas in British Columbia, exploring differences in emotional health, victimization experiences, sexual behaviors, and substance use. Methods. We analyzed a population-based sample of self-identified lesbian, gay, or bisexual respondents from the British Columbia Adolescent Health Survey of 2003 (weighted n = 6905). We tested rural–urban differences separately by gender with the χ2 test and logistic regressions. Results. We found many similarities and several differences. Rural sexual-minority adolescent boys were more likely than were their urban peers to report suicidal behaviors and pregnancy involvement. Rural sexual-minority adolescents, especially girls, were more likely to report various types of substance use. Rural status was associated with a lower risk of dating violence and higher risk of early sexual debut for sexual-minority girls and a higher risk of dating violence and lower risk of early sexual debut for sexual-minority boys. Conclusions. Location should be a demographic consideration in monitoring the health of sexual-minority adolescents. Lesbian, gay, and bisexual adolescents in rural communities may need additional support and services as they navigate adolescence.
Hand Washing Among School Children in Bogotá, Colombia
Authors: Lopez-Quintero Catalina , Freeman Paul , Neumark Yehuda 
Published: November 2008

Objectives. We assessed hand-washing behaviors and intentions among school children in Bogotá, Colombia, to help identify and overcome barriers to proper hygiene practices. Methods. Data on hand-washing behavior and intentions and individual and contextual factors were collected from 2042 sixth- through eighth-grade students in 25 schools in Bogotá via anonymous questionnaires. A member of the school administration or teaching staff completed a questionnaire about the school environment. Site inspections of bathroom facilities were conducted. Results. Only 33.6% of the sample reported always or very often washing hands with soap and clean water before eating and after using the toilet. About 7% of students reported regular access to soap and clean water at school. A high level of perceived control was the strongest predictor of positive hand-washing intentions (adjusted odds ratio [AOR] = 6.0; 95% confidence interval [CI] = 4.8, 7.5). Students with proper hand-washing behavior were less likely to report previous-month gastrointestinal symptoms (OR = 0.8; 95% CI = 0.6, 0.9) or previous-year school absenteeism (OR = 0.7; 95% CI = 0.6, 0.9). Conclusions. Scarcity of adequate facilities in most schools in Bogotá prevents children from adopting proper hygienic behavior and thwarts health promotion efforts. The current renovation program of public schools in Bogotá provides a unique opportunity to meet the challenges of providing a supportive environment for adoption of healthy behaviors.
Reductions in Disability Prevalence Among the Highest Income Groups of Older Brazilians
Authors: Parahyba Maria Isabel , Stevens Kara , Henley William , Lang Iain A. , Melzer David 
Published: November 2008

Objectives. We sought to identify the income–disability prevalence relationship among older Brazilians.Methods. Data were from 63 985 individuals 60 years and older from the 1998 and 2003 Brazilian National Household Surveys. Generalized additive logistic models with cubic regression splines were used to estimate the disability–income relationships.Results. There was a strong linear relationship between increased income and reduced disability prevalence for most of the income distribution. Benefits were still present above the 90th percentile of income but were more modest. Because incomes among the wealthiest few are disproportionately large, odds ratios of disability nevertheless showed marked improvements, even across the very highest income groups.Conclusions. Among older Brazilians, reduced disability is associated with higher income, and these associations are present even above the 90th percentile of income. In addition to understanding mechanisms of disability reduction among impoverished individuals, work is needed to understand these mechanisms in middle- and high-income groups.
Macrophage Content in Subcutaneous Adipose Tissue
Authors: Ortega Martinez de Victoria Emilio , Xu Xiaoyuan , Koska Juraj , Francisco Ann Marie , Scalise Michael , Ferrante Anthony W. , Krakoff Jonathan 
Published: November 2008

OBJECTIVE— In severely obese individuals and patients with diabetes, accumulation and activation of macrophages in adipose tissue has been implicated in the development of obesity-associated complications, including insulin resistance. We sought to determine whether in a healthy population, adiposity, sex, age, or insulin action is associated with adipose tissue macrophage content (ATMc) and/or markers of macrophage activation.RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS— Subcutaneous ATMc from young adult Pima Indians with a wide range of adiposity (13–46% body fat, by whole-body dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry) and insulin action (glucose disposal rate 1.6–9 mg/kg estimated metabolic body size/min, by glucose clamp) were measured. We also measured expression in adipose tissue of factors implicated in macrophage recruitment and activation to determine any association with ATMc and insulin action.RESULTS— ATMc, as assessed by immunohistochemistry (Mphi) and by macrophage-specific gene expression (CD68, CD11b, and CSF1R), were correlated with percent body fat, age, and female sex. Gene expression of CD68, CD11b, and CSF1R but not Mphi was correlated negatively with glucose disposal rate but not after adjustment for percent body fat, age, and sex. However, adipose tissue expression of plasminogen activator inhibitor type-1 (PAI-1) and CD11 antigen-like family member C (CD11c), markers produced by macrophages, were negatively correlated with adjusted glucose disposal rate (r = −0.28, P = 0.05 and r = −0.31, P = 0.03).CONCLUSIONS— ATMc is correlated with age and adiposity but not with insulin action independent of adiposity in healthy human subjects. However, PAI-1 and CD11c expression are independent predictors of insulin action, indicating a possible role for adipose tissue macrophage activation.
Continuous Intravenous Insulin: Ready for Prime Time
Authors: D'Hondt Nancy J. 
Published: November 2008

In BriefHyperglycemia in the inpatient setting has been linked to poor outcomes. There is evidence that careful management of hyperglycemia in the acute care setting can decrease lengths of stay, morbidity, and mortality. In unstable,critically ill patients, blood glucose excursions are most effectively controlled through the use of continuous intravenous insulin infusion protocols. However, barriers remain to the acceptance and successful implementation of protocol-driven initiatives to achieve normoglycemia. A multidisciplinary team approach can help overcome staff misconceptions and fears regarding tight glycemic management in hospitalized patients.
A Look at System-Wide Data Collection Processes to Improve Patient Outcomes
Authors: Malaskovitz Joyce , Hodge Charlotte 
Published: November 2008

In BriefInpatient diabetes programs have an opportunity to influence system-wide changes that can lead to improved quality and safety outcomes for patients. Data collection and analysis can lead to these improved outcomes through practice changes, development of protocols and order sets, and staff education. Tools and resources are available to assist diabetes professionals with their efforts toward continuous quality improvement.
Diabetes Education in the Hospital: Establishing Professional Competency
Authors: Manchester Carol S. 
Published: November 2008

In BriefEstablishing and maintaining professional competency is essential for the successful delivery of diabetes care and education. An interdisciplinary approach to education is effective for facilitating the delivery of knowledge and supporting glycemic control efforts in the hospital. Educational programs should be designed to promote and develop critical thinking skills and clinical judgment using a variety of media and resources targeted to adult learners. A competent professional staff will provide care that is evidence-based, safe, effective, and appropriate for the population served. These efforts have the potential to improve quality outcome measures and enhance patient satisfaction.
Syntheses and mesomorphic properties of laterally fluorinatedphenyl isothiocyanatotolanes and their high birefringent mixtures
Authors: Dziaduszek J. , Dąbrowski R. , Ziółek A. , Gauza S. , Wu S.T. 
Published: November 2008

AbstractSyntheses and mesomorphic properties of di-, tri- and tetrafluorosubstituted 4′-(4-alkylphenyl)-4-isothiocyanatotolanes are described. Four fluorine substituted compounds in the position 2′, 3′, 3, and 5 show stronger nematic character than difluorosubstituted ones in the position 3, 5 or 2′, 3′. Example of high birefringence nematic mixture and its properties are given.
A Novel Mutation of the ABCD1 Gene in Serbian X-Adrenoleukodystrophy
Authors: Grkovic S , Nikolic R , Djordjevic M , Puzigaca Z , Vujic D , Ilic P 
Published: November 2008

A Novel Mutation of the ABCD1 Gene in Serbian X-AdrenoleukodystrophyX-linked adrenoleukodystrophy (XALD), the most common inherited peroxisomal disorder, is characterized by central nervous system demyelination, primary adrenal failure and the systemic accumulation of saturated very long chain fatty acids (VLCFAs). We describe a novel mutation of the ABCD1 gene in a Serbian patient with this disorder. The affected boy developed Addison's disease and neurological symptoms at 6 years of age and had a bone marrow transplant 2 years later. His plasma level of saturated VLCFAs, ratios of C24:0/C22:0 and C26:0/ C22:0, were all significantly elevated. Direct sequencing of the ABCD1 gene detected the point mutation 1519 (G>A) in exon 6, which changes a glycine at position 507 into serine (G507S). This is the first report of genetically confirmed X-adrenoleukodystrophy in Serbia.
Systemic Lupus Erythematosus in a Multiethnic US Cohort (LUMINA): LXI. Value of C-Reactive Protein as a Marker of Disease Activity and Damage
Authors: BERTOLI ANAM. , VILÁ LUIS M. , REVEILLE JOHN D. , ALARCÓN GRACIELA S. 
Published: November 2008

ObjectiveTo determine whether C-reactive protein (CRP) measured by a high sensitivity (hs) assay is a surrogate marker of disease activity and damage in systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE).MethodsFive hundred eighty-eight patients with SLE participating in a multiethnic cohort (Hispanic, African American, and Caucasian) were studied. Disease activity was measured with the Systemic Lupus Activity Measure-Revised (SLAM-R) and damage with the Systemic Lupus International Collaborating Clinics (SLICC) Damage Index (SDI). hs-CRP was measured by immunometric assay. Disease activity and hs-CRP were measured at enrollment and damage accrual at last visit. The association of hs-CRP with the SLAM-R and SDI was examined by univariable (Pearson’s correlation) and multivariable (linear regression) analyses. The association of hs-CRP and each individual domain of the SLAM-R and SDI was examined by Spearman’s correlation.Resultshs-CRP was associated with the SLAM-R in the univariable (r = 0.35, p < 0.001) and multivariable (t = 7.11, coefficient β = 0.27, p < 0.001) analyses. It also correlated with the constitutional, eye, pulmonary, gastrointestinal, neuromotor, and laboratory domains of the SLAM-R. hs-CRP was associated with the SDI (r = 0.12, p = 0.004) in the univariable analysis but not in the multivariable analysis. When the individual domains of the SDI were analyzed, hs-CRP correlated with the renal, pulmonary, cardiovascular, musculoskeletal, and diabetes domains.Conclusionhs-CRP was associated with disease activity but not with overall damage accrual; however, it correlated with specific domains of the damage index. hs-CRP may be useful to monitor the course of the disease and predict its intermediate outcome, but longitudinal studies with serial hs-CRPmeasurements are necessary to define its clinical value.
Association Between Interleukin 1 Polymorphisms and Rheumatoid Arthritis Susceptibility: A Metaanalysis
Authors: LEE YOUNG HO , JI JONG DAE , SONG GWAN GYU 
Published: November 2008

Objective.To determine whether interleukin 1 (IL-1) polymorphisms confer susceptibility to rheumatoid arthritis (RA).Methods.We conducted metaanalyses on associations between IL-1 polymorphisms and RA susceptibility, using fixed or random effects models.Results.A total of 18 separate comparisons were made using 10 European, 7 Asian, and 1 Latin American population samples. Metaanalysis of the IL-1B+3954 CC genotype revealed an association with RA in all subjects (odds ratio = 0.776, 95% confidence interval = 0.609–0.988, p = 0.040). In Asians, an association between IL-1B+3954 and RA was identified. In contrast, no association was found between the IL-1B+3954 polymorphism and RA susceptibility in European populations. Metaanalyses of the IL-1B-511 and IL-1RN VNTR polymorphisms identified no association between these polymorphisms and RA.Conclusion.Our metaanalysis shows that the IL-1B+3954 polymorphism was associated with the development of RA, but only in Asians.