bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
INNOVATIVE SOLUTIONS BASED ON SIMULATION COMBINED WITH OPTIMIZATION TECHNIQUES FOR MAINTENANCE SERVICE MANAGEMENT WITHIN COMPLEX SYSTEMS
Authors: BRUZZONE AGOSTINO , BOCCA ENRICO
Published: February 2012

The research proposes a simulation model combined with smart optimizer based on Artificial Intelligence techniques, in order to support service and maintenance of pools within Complex Systems, such as power plants or vessel/aircraft fleet.

The authors propose an innovative methodology allowing the evaluation and the optimization of service and maintenance policies in order to improve inventory management and scheduling operations within complex systems. This methodology is based on the development of a simulator combined with an intelligent optimizer.

The authors proposed a new metrics to evaluate the real performance of pool service management of the whole complex system and support the optimization processes.
COMPARISONS OF RAY-TRACING AND PARABOLIC EQUATION METHODS FOR THE LARGE-SCALE COMPLEX ELECTROMAGNETIC ENVIRONMENT SIMULATIONS
Authors: SHEN YUEWEI , ZHANG LIN , LIU DENGKUN , WU YINGNIAN , MU LAN , HUNTSINGER RALPH C.
Published: February 2012

It is important for the wireless communication field to conduct research on large-scale complex electromagnetic environment (CEME) simulation. There exist many models for computing CEME simulation, including empirical models, half-empirical or half-deterministic models and deterministic models. Most of these models cannot obtain satisfactory results due to the limitation of the capacity of computers. The ray tracing (RT) and parabolic equation (PE) methods are very suitable for large-scale CEME simulation. Based on the introduction of RT and PE, qualitative comparisons of the two methods are analyzed in view of algorithm theory, the category of the model, solution to the model and the application field, and then four specific indices are focused on to analyze the computational complexity, accuracy, speed and parallelism in details. The numerical experiments are presented by the three-dimensional (3D) RT method employing the software of Wireless InSite (WI) and a quasi-3DPE method using the sliced method. Although both RT and PE methods can achieve high speedup using coarse-grained parallel computing, the experimental results indicate that the PE method can obtain a higher speed than the RT method, and the two methods can acquire an approximate precision. A hybrid procedure using both RT and PE methods can obtain a better result for solving CEME problems.
INFLUENCE OF GEOMETRIC PARAMETERS ON CENTRIFUGAL FAN PERFORMANCE AND ITS SIGNIFICANCE IN AUTOMOTIVE APPLICATIONS
Authors: SINGH O. P. , SREENIVASULU T. , KANNAN M.
Published: February 2012

In this paper, the effect of geometrical parameters of centrifugal fan on performance has been presented with a system approach. Often, the operators or the design engineers focus on the immediate requirements of the engine/equipment and they neglect the broader question of how the fan parameters are affecting the equipment. For instance, change in fan angles will change the performance e.g., airflow rates and efficiency. However, it also affects the contaminants build-up on the blades. Blade angle with higher angle of attack will promote contaminants build-up on blade surfaces, which in turn causes performance degradation and unstable operation. The system approach in fan parameter selection will result in a more reliable system. Significance of other fan parameters is also discussed. We present an experimental setup and validated computational fluid dynamic (CFD) model. Fan power consumption is determined experimentally and compared with the CFD model. Further parametric simulations were carried out to investigate the effect on fan performance. Effect of system resistance, inlet and outlet angle, blade thickness, and no-uniform spaced blades has been described with discussions on industrial relevance. A fan with higher flow rates is desirable to reduce engine temperatures and enhance the durability. However, higher flow rates result in more fan power consumption at a given fan speed. The test results suggest that a fan with higher power coefficient does not affect the vehicle's mileage significantly. This paper will help design engineers in making informed decision about the interaction between the fans and system, and its effect during the operation.
Nitric oxide and voluntary exercise together promote quadriceps hypertrophy and increase vascular density in female 18-mo-old mice
Authors: Leiter Jeff R. S. , Upadhaya Ritika , Anderson Judy E.
Published: February 2012

Age-related sarcopenia reduces the size, strength, and function of muscle, and the diameter of muscle fibers. It also disrupts the dystrophin-glycoprotein complex, dislocating nitric oxide synthase 1 (NOS-1) and reducing sarcolemmal integrity. This study of quadriceps muscle in 18-mo-old mice showed that NO-donor treatment with isosorbide dinitrate (I) for 6 wk, in combination with voluntary exercise for 3 wk, increased muscle mass by 25% and stimulated cell proliferation. The resulting fiber hypertrophy was accompanied by a lower ratio of protein:DNA, consistent with myogenic-cell hyperplasia. Treatment enhanced the ratio of NOS-1:β-dystroglycan in correlation with fiber diameter, improved sarcolemmal integrity, and increased vascular density after an increase in vascular endothelial growth factor protein at 3 wk. Results demonstrate that age-related muscle refractoriness to exercise can be overcome with NO-donor treatment. Since activation of muscle stem cells and vascular perfusion are limiting factors in the maintenance, regeneration, and growth of aged muscle, results suggest the feasibility of using NO-donor drugs to combat atrophy and muscle ischemia. Improved function and quality of life from the NO-amplified effects of exercise may be useful in aging and other conditions such as disuse, insulin resistance, or microgravity.
Inhibition of phosphodiesterases relaxes detrusor smooth muscle via activation of the large-conductance voltage- and Ca2+-activated K+ channel
Authors: Xin Wenkuan , Cheng Qiuping , Soder Rupal P. , Petkov Georgi V.
Published: February 2012

Detrusor smooth muscle (DSM) exhibits increased spontaneous phasic contractions under pathophysiological conditions such as detrusor overactivity (DO). Our previous studies showed that activation of cAMP signaling pathways reduces DSM contractility by increasing the large-conductance voltage- and Ca2+-activated K+ (BK) channel activity. Here, we tested the hypothesis whether inhibition of phosphodiesterases (PDEs) can reduce guinea pig DSM excitability and contractility by increasing BK channel activity. Utilizing isometric tension recordings of DSM isolated strips and the perforated patch-clamp technique on freshly isolated DSM cells, we examined the mechanism of DSM relaxation induced by PDE inhibition. Inhibition of PDEs by 3-isobutyl-1-methylxanthine (IBMX), a nonselective PDE inhibitor, significantly reduced DSM spontaneous and carbachol-induced contraction amplitude, frequency, duration, muscle force integral, and tone in a concentration-dependent manner. IBMX significantly reduced electrical field stimulation-induced contractions of DSM strips. Blocking BK channels with paxilline diminished the inhibitory effects of IBMX on DSM contractility, indicating a role for BK channels in DSM relaxation mediated by PDE inhibition. IBMX increased the transient BK currents (TBKCs) frequency by ∼3-fold without affecting the TBKCs amplitude. IBMX increased the frequency of the spontaneous transient hyperpolarizations by ∼2-fold and hyperpolarized the DSM cell resting membrane potential by ∼6 mV. Blocking the BK channels with paxilline abolished the IBMX hyperpolarizing effects. Under conditions of blocked Ca2+ sources for BK channel activation, IBMX did not affect the depolarization-induced steady-state whole cell BK currents. Our data reveal that PDE inhibition with IBMX relaxes guinea pig DSM via TBKCs activation and subsequent DSM cell membrane hyperpolarization.
Renal responses to furosemide are significantly attenuated in male sheep at 6 months of age following fetal uninephrectomy
Authors: Singh Reetu R. , Moritz Karen M. , Bertram John F. , Denton Kate M.
Published: February 2012

We have previously shown that fetal uninephrectomy (uni-x) at 100 days of gestation (term = 150 days) in male sheep results in a 30% nephron deficit, reduction in glomerular filtration rate (GFR) and renal blood flow, and elevation in arterial pressure at 6 mo of age. Furthermore, in response to an acute 0.9% saline load, sodium excretion was significantly delayed in uni-x animals leading us to speculate that tubuloglomerular feedback (TGF) activity was reset in uni-x animals. In the present study, we induced TGF blockade by furosemide administration (1.5 mg/kg iv over 90 min) and determined GFR, effective renal plasma flow, and urine and sodium excretion responses in 6-mo-old male sheep. In response to furosemide, a significant diuresis and natriuresis was observed in the sham group; however, the response was significantly delayed and reduced in uni-x animals (both, Ptreatment×time< 0.001). Cummulative urinary and sodium output was significantly less in the uni-x compared with the sham sheep (both, Ptreatment×time< 0.001). GFR was increased in the sham but not the uni-x sheep ( Ptreatment×time< 0.0001). In conclusion, the excretory response to furosemide was attenuated in the uni-x sheep, and this suggests a rightward resetting of the TGF operating point. The TGF mechanism is important in the fine tuning of sodium homeostasis and is likely a contributing factor for the dysfunction in sodium regulation we have previously observed in the uni-x animals.
Cross talk between primary human renal tubular cells and endothelial cells in cocultures
Authors: Tasnim Farah , Zink Daniele
Published: February 2012

Interactions between renal tubular epithelial cells and adjacent endothelial cells are essential for normal renal functions but also play important roles in renal disease and repair. Here, we investigated cocultures of human primary renal proximal tubular cells (HPTC) and human primary endothelial cells to address the cross talk between these cell types. HPTC showed improved proliferation, marker gene expression, and enzyme activity in cocultures. Also, the long-term maintenance of epithelia formed by HPTC was improved, which was due to the secretion of transforming growth factor-β1 and its antagonist α2-macroglobulin. HPTC induced endothelial cells to secrete increased amounts of these factors, which balanced each other functionally and only displayed in combination the observed positive effects. In addition, in the presence of HPTC endothelial cells expressed increased amounts of hepatocyte growth factor and vascular endothelial growth factor, which have well-characterized effects on renal tubular epithelial cells as well as on endothelial cells. Together, the results showed that HPTC stimulated endothelial cells to express a functionally balanced combination of various factors, which in turn improved the performance of HPTC. The results give new insights into the cross talk between renal epithelial and endothelial cells and suggest that cocultures could be also useful models for the analysis of cellular communication in renal disease and repair. Furthermore, the characterization of defined microenvironments, which positively affect HPTC, will be helpful for improving the performance of this cell type in in vitro applications including in vitro toxicology and kidney tissue engineering.
Mapping pain activation and connectivity of the human habenula
Authors: Shelton L. , Pendse G. , Maleki N. , Moulton E. A. , Lebel A. , Becerra L. , Borsook D.
Published: February 2012

The habenula, located in the posterior thalamus, is implicated in a wide array of functions. Animal anatomical studies have indicated that the structure receives inputs from a number of brain regions (e.g., frontal areas, hypothalamic, basal ganglia) and sends efferent connections predominantly to the brain stem (e.g., periaqueductal gray, raphe, interpeduncular nucleus). The role of the habenula in pain and its anatomical connectivity are well-documented in animals but not in humans. In this study, for the first time, we show how high-field magnetic resonance imaging can be used to detect habenula activation to noxious heat. Functional maps revealed significant, localized, and bilateral habenula responses. During pain processing, functional connectivity analysis demonstrated significant functional correlations between the habenula and the periaqueductal gray and putamen. Probabilistic tractography was used to assess connectivity of afferent (e.g., putamen) and efferent (e.g., periaqueductal gray) pathways previously reported in animals. We believe that this study is the first report of habenula activation by experimental pain in humans. Since the habenula connects forebrain structures with brain stem structures, we suggest that the findings have important implications for understanding sensory and emotional processing in the brain during both acute and chronic pain.
Contribution of EAG to excitability and potassium currents inDrosophilalarval motoneurons
Authors: Srinivasan Subhashini , Lance Kimberley , Levine Richard B.
Published: February 2012

Diversity in the expression of K+channels among neurons allows a wide range of excitability, growth, and functional regulation. Ether-à-go-go (EAG), a voltage-gated K+channel, was first characterized in Drosophila mutants by spontaneous firing in nerve terminals and enhanced neurotransmitter release. Although diverse functions have been ascribed to this protein, its role within neurons remains poorly understood. The aim of this study was to characterize the function of EAG in situ in Drosophila larval motoneurons. Whole cell patch-clamp recordings performed from the somata revealed a decrease in IAvand IKvK+currents in eag mutants and with targeted eag RNAi expression. Spontaneous spike-like events were observed in eag mutants but absent in wild-type motoneurons. Thus our results provide evidence that EAG represents a unique K+channel contributing to multiple K+currents in motoneurons helping to regulate excitability, consistent with previous observations in the Drosophila larval muscle.
Activation of protein kinase A and C prevents recovery from persistent depolarization produced by oxygen and glucose deprivation in rat hippocampal neurons
Authors: Murai Y. , Okabe Y. , Tanaka E.
Published: February 2012

Intracellular recordings were made from rat hippocampal CA1 neurons in rat brain slice preparations to investigate whether cAMP-dependent protein kinase (PKA) and calcium/phospholipid-dependent protein kinase C (PKC) contribute to the membrane dysfunction induced by oxygen and glucose deprivation (OGD). Superfusion of oxygen- and glucose-deprived medium produced a rapid depolarization ∼5 min after the onset of the superfusion. When oxygen and glucose were reintroduced immediately after the rapid depolarization, the membrane depolarized further (persistent depolarization) and reached 0 mV after 5 min from the reintroduction. The pretreatment of the slice preparation with PKA inhibitors, H-89 and Rp-cAMPS, and an adenylate cyclase inhibitor, SQ 22, 536, significantly restored the membrane toward the preexposure potential level after the reintroduction of oxygen and glucose in a concentration-dependent manner. On the other hand, a phospholipase C inhibitor, U73122, a PKC inhibitor, GF109203X, and a nonselective protein kinase inhibitor, staurosporine, also significantly restored the membrane after the reintroduction. Moreover, an inositol-1,4,5-triphosphate receptor antagonist, 2-aminoethyl diphenylborinate, and calmodulin inhibitors, trifluoperazine and W-7, significantly restored the membrane after the reintroduction, while neither an α-subunit-selective antagonist for stimulatory G protein, NF449, a Ca2+/calmodulin-dependent kinase II inhibitor, KN-62, nor a myosin light chain kinase inhibitor, ML-7, significantly restored the membrane after the reintroduction. These results suggest that the activation of PKA and/or PKC prevents the recovery from the persistent depolarization produced by OGD. The Ca2+/calmodulin-stimulated adenylate cyclase may contribute to the activation of PKA.
Task-dependent changes in cortical excitability and effective connectivity: a combined TMS-EEG study
Authors: Johnson Jeffrey S. , Kundu Bornali , Casali Adenauer G. , Postle Bradley R.
Published: February 2012

The brain's electrical response to transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) is known to be influenced by exogenous factors such as the frequency and intensity of stimulation and the orientation and positioning of the stimulating coil. Less understood, however, is the influence of endogenous neural factors, such as global brain state, on the TMS-evoked response (TMS-ER). In the present study, we explored how changes in behavioral state affect the TMS-ER by perturbing the superior parietal lobule (SPL) with single pulses of TMS and measuring consequent differences in the frequency, strength, and spatial spread of TMS-evoked currents during the delay period of a spatial short-term memory task and during a period of passive fixation. Results revealed that task performance increased the overall strength of electrical currents induced by TMS, increased the spatial spread of TMS-evoked activity to distal brain regions, and increased the ability of TMS to reset the phase of ongoing broadband cortical oscillations. By contrast, task performance had little effect on the dominant frequency of the TMS-ER, both locally and at distal brain areas. These findings contribute to a growing body of work using combined TMS and neuroimaging methods to explore task-dependent changes in the functional organization of cortical networks implicated in task performance.
Acetylcholine-evoked afterdischarge inAplysiabag cell neurons
Authors: White Sean H. , Magoski Neil S.
Published: February 2012

A brief synaptic input to the bag cell neurons of Aplysia evokes a lengthy afterdischarge and the secretion of peptide hormones that trigger ovulation. The input transmitter is unknown, although prior work has shown that afterdischarges are prevented by strychnine. Because molluscan excitatory cholinergic synapses are blocked by strychnine, we tested the hypothesis that acetylcholine acts on an ionotropic receptor to initiate the afterdischarge. In cultured bag cell neurons, acetylcholine induced a short burst of action potentials followed by either return to near baseline or, like a true afterdischarge, transition to continuous firing. The current underlying the acetylcholine-induced depolarization was dose dependent, associated with increased membrane conductance, and sensitive to the nicotinic antagonists hexamethonium, mecamylamine, and α-conotoxin ImI. Whereas nicotine, choline, carbachol, and glycine did not mimic acetylcholine, tetramethylammonium did produce a similar current. Consistent with an ionotropic receptor, the response was not altered by intracellular dialysis with the G protein blocker guanosine 5′-(β-thio)diphosphate. Recording from the intact bag cell neuron cluster showed acetylcholine to evoke prominent depolarization, which often led to extended bursting, but only in the presence of the acetylcholinesterase inhibitor neostigmine. Extracellular recording confirmed that exogenous acetylcholine caused genuine afterdischarges, which, as per those generated synaptically, rendered the cluster refractory to further stimulation. Finally, treatment with a combination of mecamylamine and α-conotoxin ImI blocked synaptically induced afterdischarges in the intact bag cell neuron cluster. Acetylcholine appears to elicit the afterdischarge through an ionotropic receptor. This represents an expedient means for transient stimulation to elicit prolonged firing in the absence of ongoing synaptic input.
Anterior cingulate neurons in the rat map anticipated effort and reward to their associated action sequences
Authors: Cowen Stephen L. , Davis Glen A. , Nitz Douglas A.
Published: February 2012

Goal-directed behaviors require the consideration and expenditure of physical effort. The anterior cingulate cortex (ACC) appears to play an important role in evaluating effort and reward and in organizing goal-directed actions. Despite agreement regarding the involvement of the ACC in these processes, the way in which effort-, reward-, and motor-related information is registered by networks of ACC neurons is poorly understood. To contrast ACC responses to effort, reward, and motor behaviors, we trained rats on a reversal task in which the selected paths on a track determined the level of effort or reward. Effort was presented in the form of an obstacle that was climbed to obtain reward. We used single-unit recordings to identify neural correlates of effort- and reward-guided behaviors. During periods of outcome anticipation, 52% of recorded ACC neurons responded to the specific route taken to the reward while 21% responded prospectively to effort and 12% responded prospectively to reward. In addition, effort- and reward-selective neurons typically responded to the route, suggesting that these cells integrated motor-related activity with expectations of future outcomes. Furthermore, the activity of ACC neurons did not discriminate between choice and forced trials or respond to a more generalized measure of outcome value. Nearly all neural responses to effort and reward occurred after path selection and were restricted to discrete temporal/spatial stages of the task. Together, these findings support a role for the ACC in integrating route-specific actions, effort, and reward in the service of sustaining discrete movements through an effortful series of goal-directed actions.
Training in a ballistic task but not a visuomotor task increases responses to stimulation of human corticospinal axons
Authors: Giesebrecht Sabine , van Duinen Hiske , Todd Gabrielle , Gandevia Simon C. , Taylor Janet L.
Published: February 2012

Short periods of training in motor tasks can increase motor cortical excitability. This study investigated whether changes also occur at a subcortical level. Subjects trained in ballistic finger abduction or visuomotor tracking. The right index finger rotated around the metacarpophalangeal (MCP) joint in a splint. Surface EMG was recorded from the first dorsal interosseous. Transcranial magnetic stimulation over the back of the head (double-cone coil) elicited cervicomedullary motor evoked potentials (CMEPs) by stimulation of corticospinal axons. Responses were recorded from the relaxed muscle before, between, and after two sets of training. In study 1 ( n = 7), training comprised two sets of 150 maximal finger abductions. Feedback of acceleration was provided. With training, acceleration increased significantly. CMEPs increased to 248 ± 152% (± SD) of baseline immediately after training ( P = 0.007) but returned to control level (155 ± 141%) 10 min later. In study 2 ( n = 7), subjects matched MCP joint angle to a target path on a computer screen. After ∼30 min of training, tracking improved as shown by increased correlation between joint angle and the target pathway, reduced time lag, and reduced EMGrms. However, CMEPs remained unchanged. These results show that transmission through the corticospinal pathway at a spinal level increased after repeated ballistic movements but not after training in a visuomotor task. Thus, changes at a spinal level may contribute to improved performance in some motor tasks.
(Photo)electrochemical Methods for the Determination of the Band Edge Positions of TiO2‐Based Nanomaterials
Authors: Beranek Radim
Published: February 2012

TiO2‐based nanomaterials play currently a major role in the development of novel photochemical systems and devices. One of the key parameters determining the photoactivity of TiO2‐based materials is the position of the band edges. Although its knowledge is an important prerequisite for understanding and optimizing the performance of photochemical systems, it has been often rather neglected in recent research, particularly in the field of heterogeneous photocatalysis. This paper provides a concise account of main methods for the determination of the position of the band edges, particularly those suitable for measurements on nanostructured materials. In the first part, a survey of key photophysical and photochemical concepts necessary for understanding the energetics at the semiconductor/solution interface is provided. This is followed by a detailed discussion of several electrochemical, photoelectrochemical, and spectroelectrochemical methods that can be applied for the determination of band edge positions in compact and nanocrystalline thin films, as well as in nanocrystalline powders.
MHD Flow of an Incompressible Viscous Fluid through Convergent or Divergent Channels in Presence of a High Magnetic Field
Authors: Hosseini Reza , Poozesh Sadegh , Dinarvand Saeed
Published: February 2012

The flow of an incompressible electrically conducting viscous fluid in convergent or divergent channels under the influence of an externally applied homogeneous magnetic field is studied both analytically and numerically. Navier‐Stokes equations of fluid mechanics and Maxwell’s electromagnetism equations are reduced into highly non‐linear ordinary differential equation. The resulting non‐linear equation has been solved analytically using a very efficient technique, namely, differential transform method (DTM). The DTM solution is compared with the results obtained by a numerical method (shooting method, coupled with fourth‐order Runge‐Kutta scheme). The plots have revealed the physical characteristics of flow by changing angles of the channel, Hartmann and Reynolds numbers.
Sphingolipid and Ceramide Homeostasis: Potential Therapeutic Targets
Authors: Young Simon A. , Mina John G. , Denny Paul W. , Smith Terry K.
Published: February 2012

Sphingolipids are ubiquitous in eukaryotic cells where they have been attributed a plethora of functions from the formation of structural domains to polarized cellular trafficking and signal transduction. Recent research has identified and characterised many of the key enzymes involved in sphingolipid metabolism and this has led to a heightened interest in the possibility of targeting these processes for therapies against cancers, Alzheimer's disease, and numerous important human pathogens. In this paper we outline the major pathways in eukaryotic sphingolipid metabolism and discuss these in relation to disease and therapy for both chronic and infectious conditions.
Femtosecond Laser and Big-Bubble Deep Anterior Lamellar Keratoplasty: A New Chance
Authors: Buzzonetti Luca , Petrocelli Gianni , Valente Paola
Published: February 2012

Purpose. To report the 12-month follow-up after big-bubble deep anterior lamellar keratoplasty (DALK) assisted by femtosecond laser that we have called IntraBubble.Methods. A 60 kHz IntraLase femtosecond laser (Abbott Medical Optics) firstly created a 30°angled intrastromal channel to insert the air injection cannula, 50 μ above the thinnest corneal site measured by Sirius Scheimpflug camera (CSO, Firenze, Italy), then performed a full lamellar cut 100 μ above the thinnest corneal point, and from the same corneal depth, created a mushroom incision. The lamella was removed, and the smooth cannula of Fogla was inserted into the stromal channel and air was injected to achieve a big bubble. The follow up is 12 months, and sutures were removed by the 10th postoperative month in all patients. Best Corrected Visual Acuity (BCVA), spherical equivalent and, by Sirius Scheimpflug camera (CSO, Firenze, Italy) keratometric astigmatism were evaluated.Results. All procedures were completed as DALK except 2 converted to PK because an inadvertent intraoperative macroperforation occurred. Mean postoperative BCVA was 0.8, mean spherical equivalent was-3.5±1.7 D, and mean keratometric astigmatism was4.8±3.1 D.Conclusion. The femtosecond laser could standardize the big-bubble technique in DALK, reducing the risk of intraoperative complications and allowing good refractive outcomes.
The Role of Environmental Heterogeneity in Maintaining Reproductive Isolation between HybridizingPasserina(Aves: Cardinalidae) Buntings
Authors: Carling Matthew D. , Thomassen Henri A.
Published: February 2012

Hybrid zones are useful systems in which to investigate processes important in creating and maintaining biological diversity. As they are often located in ecotones, patterns of environmental heterogeneity may influence hybridization, and may also influence the maintenance of reproductive isolation between hybridizing species. Focusing on the hybrid zone betweenPasserina amoena(Lazuli Bunting) andPasserina cyanea(Indigo Bunting), located in the eastern Rocky Mountain/western Great Plains ecotone, we examined the relationship between population-pairwise differences in the proportion of hybrids and environmental variation. Models including environmental variables explained more of the variation in hybridization rates across the ecotone than did models that only included the geographic distance between sampling localities as predictor variables (63.9% and 58.9% versus 38.8% and 39.9%, depending on how hybridization was quantified). In the models including environmental variables, the amount of rainfall during the warmest quarter had the greatest explanatory power, consistent with a hypothesis thatP. cyaneais better adapted to the mesic environments of eastern North America andP. amoenais better adapted to the xeric habitats of western North America. These results suggest that continued reproductive isolation between these species is mediated, at least partially, by differential adaptations to local environmental conditions.
Multicriteria Reconfiguration of Distribution Network with Distributed Generation
Authors: Voropai N. I. , Bat-Undraal B.
Published: February 2012

The paper addresses the problem of multicriteria reconfiguration of distribution network with distributed generation according to the criterion of minimum power loss under normal conditions and the criterion of power supply reliability under postemergency conditions. Efficient heuristic and multicriteria methods are used to solve the problem including advanced ant colony algorithm for minimum loss reconfiguration of distribution network, the sorting‐out algorithm of cell formation for island performing in postemergency network, and the successive concessions method for multicriteria decision making. Demonstration studies have been carried out for the Central Power System of Mongolia.
Methods of Developing User-Friendly Keys to Identify Green Sea Turtles (Chelonia mydasL.) from Photographs
Authors: Lloyd Jane R. , Maldonado Miguel Á. , Stafford Richard
Published: February 2012

Identifying individual animals is important in understanding their ecology and behaviour, as well as providing estimates of population sizes for conservation efforts. We produce identification keys from photographs of green sea turtles to identify them while foraging in Akumal Bay, Mexico. We create three keys, which (a) minimise the length of the key, (b) present the most obvious differential characteristics first, and (c) remove the strict dichotomy from key b. Keys were capable of identifying >99% of turtles in >2500 photographs during the six-month study period. The keys differed significantly in success rate for students to identify individual turtles, with key (c) being the best with >70% success and correctly being followed further than other keys before making a mistake. User-friendly keys are, therefore, a suitable method for the photographic identification of turtles and could be used for other large marine vertebrates in conservation or behavioural studies.
Diversity of Cellulolytic Microbes and the Biodegradation of Municipal Solid Waste by a Potential Strain
Authors: Gautam S. P. , Bundela P. S. , Pandey A. K. , Jamaluddin  , Awasthi M. K. , Sarsaiya S.
Published: February 2012

Municipal solid waste contains high amounts of cellulose, which is an ideal organic waste for the growth of most of microorganism as well as composting by potential microbes. In the present study, Congo red test was performed for screening of microorganism, and, after selecting a potential strains, it was further used for biodegradation of organic municipal solid waste. Forty nine out of the 250 different microbes tested (165 belong to fungi and 85 to bacteria) produced cellulase enzyme and among theseTrichoderma viridewas found to be a potential strain in the secondary screening. During the biodegradation of organic waste, after 60 days, the average weight losses were 20.10% in the plates and 33.35% in the piles. There was an increase in pH until 20 days. pH however, stabilized after 30 days in the piles. Temperature also stabilized as the composting process progressed in the piles. The high temperature continued until 30 days of decomposition, after which the temperature dropped to40°C and below during the maturation. Good quality compost was obtained in 60 days.
Macrophage Migration Inhibitory Factor in Protozoan Infections
Authors: Bozza Marcelo T. , Martins Yuri C. , Carneiro Letícia A. M. , Paiva Claudia N.
Published: February 2012

Macrophage migration inhibitory factor (MIF) is a cytokine that plays a central role in immune and inflammatory responses. In the present paper, we discussed the participation of MIF in the immune response to protozoan parasite infections. As a general trend, MIF participates in the control of parasite burden at the expense of promoting tissue damage due to increased inflammation.
Linking Epigenetics to Human Disease and Rett Syndrome: The Emerging Novel and Challenging Concepts in MeCP2 Research
Authors: Zachariah Robby Mathew , Rastegar Mojgan
Published: February 2012

Epigenetics refer to inheritable changes beyond DNA sequence that control cell identity and morphology. Epigenetics play key roles in development and cell fate commitments and highly impact the etiology of many human diseases. A well-known link between epigenetics and human disease is the X-linkedMECP2gene, mutations in which lead to the neurological disorder, Rett Syndrome. Despite the fact that MeCP2 was discovered about 20 years ago, our current knowledge about its molecular function is not comprehensive. While MeCP2 was originally found to bind methylated DNA and interact with repressor complexes to inhibit and silence its genomic targets, recent studies have challenged this idea. Indeed, depending on its interacting protein partners and target genes, MeCP2 can act either as an activator or as a repressor. Furthermore, it is becoming evident that although Rett Syndrome is a progressive and postnatal neurological disorder, the consequences of MeCP2 deficiencies initiate much earlier and before birth. To comprehend the novel and challenging concepts in MeCP2 research and to design effective therapeutic strategies for Rett Syndrome, a targeted collaborative effort from scientists in multiple research areas to clinicians is required.
An Adult Patient with Fontan Physiology: A TEE Perspective
Authors: Gologorsky Edward , Gologorsky Angela , Rosenkranz Eliot
Published: February 2012

Fontan and Baudet described in 1971 the separation of the pulmonary and systemic circulations resulting in univentricular physiology. The evolution of the Fontan procedure, most notably the substitution of right atrial-to-pulmonary artery anastomosis with cavopulmonary connections, resulted in significantly improved late outcomes. Many patients survive well into adulthood and are able to lead productive lives. While ideally under medical care at specialized centers for adult congenital cardiac pathology, these patients may present to the outside hospitals for emergency surgery, electrophysiologic interventions, and pregnancy. This presentation presents a “train of thought,” linking the TEE images to the perioperative physiologic considerations faced by an anesthesiologist caring for a patient with Fontan circulation in the perioperative settings. Relevant effects of mechanical ventilation on pulmonary vascular resistance, pulmonary blood flow and cardiac preload, presence of coagulopathy and thromboembolic potential, danger of abrupt changes of systemic vascular resistance and systemic venous return are discussed.
One-Pot Synthesis of Pyrrolidine-2-ones from Erythruronolactone and Amine
Authors: Benhaoua Chahrazed
Published: February 2012

Concise and accessible approaches to pyrrolidine-2-ones were studied. The synthesis involves the conversion of erythruronolactone to pyrrolidine-2-ones in good yields.
Modulation of Vasomotive Activity in Rabbit External Ophthalmic Artery by Neuropeptides
Authors: Delgado Esmeralda Sofia Costa , Marques-Neves Carlos , Rocha Maria Isabel Sousa , Sales-Luís José Paulo Pacheco , Silva-Carvalho Luís Filipe
Published: February 2012

Purpose. To investigate the vasomotive activity upon the external ophthalmic artery of vasointestinal peptide (VIP) and neuropeptide Y (NPY) using a previously developed model.Methods. Isolated rabbit eyes (n=12) were perfusedin situwith tyrode through the external ophthalmic artery. Effects of intra-arterial injections of NPY 200 μg/ml (Group A;n=6) and VIP 200 μg/ml (Group B;n=6) on the recorded pressure were obtained. For statistical analysis, Student's pairedt-test and Fast Fourier Transform were used.Results. Spontaneous oscillations were observed before any drug administration in the 12 rabbit models. NPY produced an increase in total vascular resistance and a higher frequency and amplitude of oscillations, while VIP evoked the opposite effects.Conclusions. This study provides evidence of vasomotion in basal conditions in rabbit external ophthalmic artery. Concerning drug effects, NPY increased arterial resistance and enhanced vasomotion while VIP produced opposite effects which demonstrates their profound influence in arterial vasomotion.
Human Impairment from Living near Confined Animal (Hog) Feeding Operations
Authors: Kilburn Kaye H.
Published: February 2012

Problem.To determine whether neighbors around manure lagoons and massive hog confinement buildings who complained of offensive odors and symptoms had impaired brain and lung functions.Method.We compared near hog manure neighbors of lagoons to people living beyond 3 kilometers in Ohio and to unexposed people controls in a nearby state for neurophysiological, cognitive, recall and memory functions, and pulmonary performance.Results.The 25 exposed subjects averaged 4.3 neurobehavioral abnormalities, significantly different from 2.5 for local controls and 2.3 for Tennessee controls. Exposed subjects mean forced vital capacity and expiratory volume in 1 sec were reduced significantly compared to local and regional controls.Conclusions.Near neighbors of hog enclosures and manure lagoon gases had impaired neurobehavioral functions and pulmonary functions and these effects extended to nearby people thought to be controls. Hydrogen sulfide must be abated because people living near lagoons cannot avoid rotten egg gas.
On the Use of Adaptive Resemblance Terms in Chemical Ecology
Authors: von Beeren Christoph , Pohl Sebastian , Witte Volker
Published: February 2012

Many organisms (mimics) show adaptive resemblance to an element of their environment (model) in order to dupe another organism (operator) for their own benefit. We noted that the terms for adaptive resemblance are used inconsistently within chemical ecology and with respect to the usage in general biology. Here we first describe how resemblance terms are used in general biology and then comparatively examine the use in chemical ecology. As a result we suggest the following consistent terminology: “chemical crypsis” occurs when the operator does not detect the mimic as a discrete entity (background matching). “Chemical masquerade” occurs when the operator detects the mimic but misidentifies it as an uninteresting entity, as opposed to “chemical mimicry” in which an organism is detected as an interesting entity by the operator. The additional terms “acquired” and “innate” may be used to specify the origins of mimetic cues.
Human Biological Monitoring of Diisononyl Phthalate and Diisodecyl Phthalate: A Review
Authors: Saravanabhavan Gurusankar , Murray Janine
Published: February 2012

High molecular-weight phthalates, such as diisononyl phthalate (DINP), and diisodecyl phthalate (DIDP), are widely used as plasticizers in the manufacturing of polymers and consumer products. Human biological monitoring studies have employed the metabolites of DINP and DIDP as biomarkers to assess human exposure. In this review, we summarize and analyze publicly available scientific data on chemistry, metabolism, and excretion kinetics, of DINP and DIDP, to identify specific and sensitive metabolites. Human biological monitoring data on DINP and DIDP are scrutinised to assess the suitability of these metabolites as biomarkers of exposure. Results from studies carried out in animals and humans indicate that phthalates are metabolised rapidly and do not bioaccmulate. During Phase-I metabolism, ester hydrolysis of DINP and DIDP leads to the formation of hydrolytic monoesters. These primary metabolites undergo further oxidation reactions to produce secondary metabolites. Hence, the levels of secondary metabolites of DINP and DIDP in urine are found to be always higher than the primary metabolites. Results from human biological monitoring studies have shown that the secondary metabolites of DINP and DIDP in urine were detected in almost all tested samples, while the primary metabolites were detected in only about 10% of the samples. This indicates that the secondary metabolites are very sensitive biomarkers of DINP/DIDP exposure while primary metabolites are not. The NHANES data indicate that the median concentrations of MCIOP and MCINP (secondary metabolites of DINP and DIDP, resp.) at a population level are about 5.1 μg/L and 2.7 μg/L, respectively. Moreover, the available biological monitoring data suggest that infants/children are exposed to higher levels of phthalates than adults.
Incomplete Regulation, Asymmetric Information, and Collusion-Proofness
Authors: Meireles Marco , Sarmento Paula
Published: February 2012

In an incomplete regulation framework, the regulator cannot replicate all the possible outcomes by himself since he has no influence over some firms in the market. Due to asymmetric information, it may be better for the regulator to allow the unregulated firms to extract a truthful report from the regulated firm through side-payments under collusion, and therefore the “collusion-proofness principle” may not hold. In fact, by introducing an exogenous number of unregulated firms, social welfare differences seem to favour a collusion-allowing equilibrium. However, such result will depend on the relative importance given by the regulator to the consumer surplus in the social welfare function.
Topical Application ofChrysanthemum indicum L.Attenuates the Development of Atopic Dermatitis-Like Skin Lesions by Suppressing Serum IgE Levels, IFN-γ, and IL-4 in Nc/Nga Mice
Authors: Park Sunmin , Lee Jung Bok , Kang Suna
Published: February 2012

Chrysanthemum indicum L. (CIL) is widely used as an anti-inflammatory agent in Asia and our preliminary study revealed that CIL reduced interleukin (IL)-4 and IL-13 in 2,4-dinitrochlorobenzene (DNCB)-treated HaCaT cells, a human keratinocyte cell line. We investigated the atopic dermatitis (AD) effect of topically applied CIL in mice with AD-like symptoms. After topical application of 1,3-butylen glycol (control), CIL-Low (5%), CIL-High (30%), or 0.1% hydrocortisone (HC) on the AD-like skin lesions in DNCB-treated NC/Nga mice for 5 weeks, the ear thickness, mast cell infiltration, and serum immunoglobulin E (IgE), IgG1, IL-4 and interferon (IFN)-γwere measured. The gene expressions of IL-4, IL-13, and IFN-γin the dorsal skin were assayed. CIL treatment dosedependently reduced severity of clinical symptoms of dorsal skin, ear thickness, and the number of mast cells and eosinophils. CIL-High significantly decreased serum IgE, IgG1, IL-4, and IFN-γlevels and reduced mRNA levels of IFN-γ, IL-4, and IL-13 in dorsal skin lesion. The improvement by CIL-High was similar to HC, but without its adverse effects such as skin atrophy maceration, and secondary infection. In conclusion, CIL may be an effective alternative substance for the management of AD.
Investigation on the Photoelectrocatalytic Activity of Well-Aligned TiO2Nanotube Arrays
Authors: Wu Xiaomeng , Huang Zhaohui , Liu Yangai , Fang Minghao
Published: February 2012

Well-aligned TiO2nanotube arrays were fabricated by anodizing Ti foil in viscous F−containing organic electrolytes, and the crystal structure and morphology of the TiO2nanotube array were characterized and analyzed by XRD, SEM, and TEM, respectively. The photocatalytic activity of the TiO2nanotube arrays was evaluated in the photocatalytic (PC) and photoelectrocatalytic (PEC) degradation of methylene blue (MB) dye in different supporting solutions. The excellent performance of ca. 97% for color removal was reached after 90 min in the PEC process compared to that of PC process which indicates that a certain external potential bias favors the promotion of the electrode reaction rate on TiO2nanotube array when it is under illumination. In addition, it is found that PEC process conducted in supporting solutions with low pH and containing Cl−is also beneficial to accelerate the degradation rate of MB.
Iodine Content and Distribution in Thyroid Specimens from Two Patients with Graves' Disease Pretreated with Either Propylthiouracil or Stable Iodine: Analysis Using X-Ray Fluorescence and Time-of-Flight Secondary Ion Mass Spectrometry
Authors: Hansson Marie , Filipsson Nyström Helena , Jansson Svante , Lausmaa Jukka , Berg Gertrud
Published: February 2012

Patients with Graves' disease can be medically prepared before surgery in different ways, which may have various effects on iodine stores. Thyroid specimens were collected at surgery from two patients pretreated with propylthiouracil (PTU) and stable iodine, respectively. A quantitative analysis of iodine content was performed using X-ray fluorescence (XRF) in frozen tissue and a qualitative analysis of aldehyde-fixed material with Time-of-Flight Secondary Ion Mass Spectrometry (TOF-SIMS). Iodine concentrations were 0.9 mg/mL and 0.5 mg/mL in the thyroid tissue from the patients treated with PTU and stable iodine respectively. TOF-SIMS showed iodine in the follicle lumina in both. However, in the PTU case, iodine was also seen within the thyrocytes indicating accumulation of iodinated compounds from uninhibited hormone release. XRF and TOF-SIMS can be used to follow iodine distribution within the thyroid and the intricate processes following the different medical treatment alternatives in Graves' disease.
Combined Pulmonary Fibrosis and Emphysema Syndrome: A New Phenotype within the Spectrum of Smoking-Related Interstitial Lung Disease
Authors: Portillo Karina , Morera Josep
Published: February 2012

Combined pulmonary fibrosis and emphysema (CPFE) is a recently defined syndrome, in which centrilobular and/or paraseptal emphysemas in upper lung zones coexist with pulmonary fibrosis in lower lobes in individuals. These patients have a characteristic lung function profile, with unexpected subnormal dynamic and static lung volumes, contrasting with a significant reduction of carbon monoxide transfer (DLco) and exercise hypoxemia. Pulmonary hypertension is highly prevalent in CPFE and is the leading determinant of death. Tobacco smoking has been proposed as the main factor in its etiology, though the pathophysiology and its natural history remain to be determined. High-resolution computed axial tomography is the mandatory tool to confirm the diagnosis. Currently, there is no consensus about its treatment since those published to date on this issue are limited to well-characterised series of cases; hence, a better understanding of this entity may help in the development of future therapeutic approaches.