bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Mechanism of HIV antiretroviral drugs progress toward drug resistance
Authors: Ammaranond Palanee , Sanguansittianan Sayompoo
Published: November 2011

The rapid replication rate of HIV‐1 RNA and its inherent genetic variation have led to the production of many HIV‐1 variants with decreased drug susceptibility. The capacity of HIV to develop drug resistance mutations is a major obstacle to long‐term effective anti‐HIV therapy. Incomplete suppression of viral replication with an initial drug regimen diminishes the clinical benefit to the patient and may promote the development of broader drug resistance that may cause subsequent treatment regimens to be ineffective. The increased clinical use of combination antiretroviral treatment for HIV‐1 infection has led to the selection of viral strains resistant to multiple drugs, including strains resistant to all licensed nucleoside analog RT inhibitors and protease inhibitors. Therefore, it is important to understand the influence of such mutations on viral properties such as replicative fitness, fidelity, and mutation rates. Although research continues to improve our understanding of resistance, leading to refined treatment strategies and, in some cases, improved outcome, resistance to antiretroviral therapy remains a major cause of treatment failure among patients living with HIV‐1.
Association analysis between the −2518MCP‐1(A/G) polymorphism and generalized aggressive periodontitis in a Chinese population
Authors: Zhu X. L. , Meng H. X. , Zhang L. , Xu L. , Chen Z. B. , Shi D. , Feng X. H. , Zhang X.
Published: November 2011

Zhu XL, Meng HX, Zhang L, Xu L, Chen ZB, Shi D, Feng XH, Zhang X. Association analysis between the −2518MCP‐1(A/G) polymorphism and generalized aggressive periodontitis in a Chinese population. J Periodont Res 2012; 47: 286–292. © 2011 John Wiley & Sons A/S

Background and Objective:  It has been suggested that aggressive periodontitis has a genetic basis. Monocyte chemoattractant protein 1 (MCP‐1) plays a critical role in the recruitment of monocytes and the development of periodontitis. The −2518MCP‐1(A/G) polymorphism has been implicated as a risk or susceptibility factor for a variety of autoimmune conditions and inflammatory diseases. The intent of this investigation was to study whether the −2518MCP‐1(A/G) polymorphism is associated with generalized aggressive periodontitis in the Chinese population.

Material and Methods:  One hundred and twenty‐four patients with generalized aggressive periodontitis and 94 healthy subjects were included in this case–control study. Genomic DNA was isolated from a peripheral blood sample obtained from each subject. Gene polymorphisms of −2518MCP‐1(A/G) were analyzed by a standard polymerase chain reaction–restriction fragment length polymorphism (PCR‐RFLP) assay. A logistic regression analysis was performed to test the association between the −2518MCP‐1(A/G) genotype (alleles) and generalized aggressive periodontitis with adjustment of the major covariates (gender, age and smoking status).

Results:  There was no significant association of the −2518MCP‐1(A/G) polymorphism with generalized aggressive periodontitis in the unstratified subjects. However, when patients were stratified by gender, the frequency of the G+ genotype was significantly lower in female patients with generalized aggressive periodontitis compared with female controls (p = 0.036, adjusted odds ratio = 0.3, 95% CI: 0.1–0.9). In female patients with generalized aggressive periodontitis, the probing pocket depth was larger in subjects with the AA genotype than in subjects with the G+ genotype (5.07 mm vs. 4.30 mm; Z = −2.470, p = 0.014).

Conclusion:  The polymorphisms of −2518MCP‐1 may play an important role in determining generalized aggressive periodontitis susceptibility in this cohort of Chinese women.
Computer Simulation of Self-Excited and Forced Vibrations in the External Cylindrical Plunge Grinding Process
Authors: Liao Y. S. , Shiang L. C.
Published: November 2011

The vibrations that deteriorate the workpiece surface in external cylindrical plunge grinding operations are studied by time domain simulation. Both forced vibrations caused by the eccentricity of grinding wheel, and self-excited vibrations are modeled. The results show that lobes are developed on the circumferences of workpiece and grinding wheel under the workpiece regenerative chatter conditions. The lobes are observed to grow exponentially, and they precess on the wheel and workpiece. The chatter frequency is found to be equal to the number of lobes times axis speed minus the precession frequency. Its value is always higher than the system’s natural frequency. It is also found that modulation of chatter amplitude is due to grinding wheel forced vibration. Furthermore, form accuracy of the workpiece is shown to be closely related to forced vibration. Grinding conditions to reduce the effects of forced vibration on the cylindrical plunge grinding operation are recommended.
Effect of Element Types on Failure Prediction Using a Stress-Based Forming Limit Curve
Authors: Hasan Raed Z. , Kinsey Brad L. , Tsukrov Igor
Published: November 2011

Strain-based forming limit diagrams (FLDs) are the traditional tool used to characterize the formability of materials for sheet metal forming processes. However, this failure criterion exhibits a significant strain path dependence. Alternatively, stress-based FLDs have been proposed and shown to be less sensitive to the deformation path. The stress-based failure criterion can be conveniently implemented in numerical simulations. However, for reliable numerical modeling, the sensitivity of the models to the selection of discretization parameters, in particular, the element type must be assessed. In this paper, Marciniak tests have been numerically simulated to investigate failure prediction using three different element types (shell, solid, and solid-shell). Seven different specimen geometries were modeled in order to vary the loading paths. The results show that despite differences in stress calculation assumptions, shell, solid, and solid-shell elements do not provide differences in failure prediction when a stress-based failure criterion is used.
Crossing the line in the sand: regional officials, monopolisation of state power and 'rebellion'. The case of Mehmed Ağa Boyacıoğlu in Cyprus, 1685-1690
Authors: Hadjianastasis Marios
Published: November 2011

The aim of this paper is to examine centre-periphery relations and issues of state control in Ottoman provinces in the seventeenth century, as these are reflected in the case of Mehmed Ağa Boyacıoğlu in Ottoman Cyprus. Mehmed Ağa Boyacıoğlu rose to prominence in the 1680s and dominated the island for a period of five to seven years, until 1690. His behaviour and actions, and the way the Sublime Porte dealt with them, represent a useful example of how power was negotiated between the centre and the periphery. Moreover, it demonstrates how rebellion terminology had a particular meaning for contemporary historians and officials, but must be used with caution by the analysts of today. This paper focuses on our handling of this phenomenon, and initiates a discussion on terminology and meaning.
An investigation into the implementation of Annual Health Checks for people with intellectual disabilities
Authors: Walmsley Jan
Published: November 2011

This project, conducted during 2010 by a researcher working with a self-advocacy group, investigated the implementation of Annual Health Checks (AHCs) for people with intellectual disabilities in Oxfordshire, where only 26.1 percent of AHCs were completed in 2009–10 (national average 41 percent). AHCs were introduced in England in 2008 as a response to findings that people with intellectual disabilities have significantly worse health care than other groups. GP practices are financially incentivized to offer AHCs. This study found that slow progress in implementing AHCs was attributable to: uncertainty over who was eligible; limited awareness in general practices about the legal duty to make ‘reasonable adjustments’ to facilitate access; limited awareness of AHCs and their potential benefits amongst carers and adults with intellectual disabilities; and in some cases scepticism that AHCs were either necessary or beneficial. The article also explores the benefits of undertaking this project in partnership with a self-advocacy group.
Repair welding of wrought superalloys: Alloy 718, Allvac 718Plus and Waspaloy
Authors: Andersson J , Sjöberg G P
Published: November 2011

The ability to weld repair three precipitation hardening superalloys, i.e. Alloy 718, Allvac 718Plus and Waspaloy, with gas tungsten arc welding, is compared in this study. Four different solution heat treatment conditions for each material were examined: Alloy 718 and Allvac 718Plus heat treated at 954°C–1 h, 982°C–1 h, 954°C–15 h and 1020°C–1 h and Waspaloy for 4 h at 996°C, 1010°C, 1040°C and at 1080°C. By metallography, the total number of cracks was evaluated in both the heat affected zone and the fusion zone, which made it possible to consistently rate the repair weldability of these three materials. Alloy 718 was significantly the best one, with Allvac 718Plus slightly better than Waspaloy. As expected, the solution heat treatment conditions only affected the heat affected zone cracking behaviour.
Effects of laser induced metal vapour on arc plasma during laser arc double sided welding of 5A06 aluminium alloy
Authors: Chen Y B , Zhao Y B , Lei Z L , Li L Q
Published: November 2011

In order to study the effects of laser induced metal vapour on arc plasma during laser arc double sided welding (LADSW), emission spectroscopy techniques were utilised. The arc plasma in LADSW of 5A06 aluminium alloy was compared with conventional gas tungsten arc welding (GTAW) in this work. The electron temperature and density were estimated by the Saha–Boltzmann equation and the Stark broadening effect. The results indicated that the amount of metal vapour in the arc plasma during LADSW was larger than that of GTAW. Furthermore, the electron temperature of arc plasma in LADSW was lower than that in GTAW, and the electron density of arc plasma in LADSW was higher than that in GTAW near the arc anode. It was shown that the differences in arc properties between LADSW and the conventional GTAW processes were the result of laser induced metal vapour changing the composition of the arc plasma.
Dialectical inroads to a post-political photography: Democratic violence in the work of Lidwien van de Ven
Authors: STEINER SHEPHERD
Published: November 2011

This article focuses on the interpretative complexities encountered in the work of Lidwien van de Ven. First, it aims to map out the always porous nature of the relationships between aesthetics, politics and religion that make up her palimpsest-like images. Second, it aims to tease
out a three-part analytics of photography. Third, it attempts to flesh out a difficult notion of spectacle that is inherent to her wide-ranging practice, and which distinguishes her project from liberal photojournalism with its obeisance to identity politics and its weak notion of ethics.
Finally, it aims to isolate, within the dialectical machinery of spectacle that is so often put to work by western democracies, a pragmatic moment in our encounter with her photographs that has real political purchase. With a variable notion of close reading at the crux of the operation, the
article probes the efficacy of this moment so akin to philosophical aesthetics.
Kids’re Forming Bands: Making Meaning in Post-Punk
Authors: GRACYK THEODORE
Published: November 2011

As a critical category, post-punk is sufficiently diverse that its organizing principle is not to be found in its stylistic unity. As a set of musical styles, its organizing principle is not audible. Nonetheless, I propose that its core exemplars represent a coherent movement, in the
art-historic sense. Within popular music, post-punk represents a shift away from punk’s romantic expressionism to a modernist commitment to use verbal-musical interplay for the expression of ideas, particularly the idea of democratization. As a working out of aesthetic theory, its commitments
correspond closely to Immanuel Kant’s model of genius.
Relação da doença respiratória declarada pelos pais e fatores socioeconômicos e culturais
Authors: Aranha Maria Aparecida F , Grisi Sandra Josefina F. E , Escobar Ana Maria U.
Published: November 2011

OBJETIVO: Verificar a relação entre a doença respiratória das crianças declarada pelos pais e os seguintes aspectos: instituição de ensino da criança, grau de instrução dos pais, renda per capita, classe de consumo e grupo étnico da família. MÉTODOS: Estudo descritivo com enfoque retrospectivo, por meio da análise de dados coletados de pais de uma amostra de 959 escolares entre cinco e nove anos, que residiam no distrito estudado, em São Paulo, em 2004. O levantamento das informações foi realizado por meio de instrumento de coleta de dados. As doenças respiratórias pesquisadas no conjunto foram: rinite, rinossinusite, otite, laringite, faringoamigdalite, pneumonia e asma. A associação entre doença respiratória declarada e aspectos socioeconômicos foi avaliada pelo teste do qui-quadrado. RESULTADOS: Os pais de crianças que frequentavam escolas privadas declararam significativamente mais doenças respiratórias em seus filhos, em comparação aos pais de crianças que estudavam em escolas públicas. Os pais com grau de instrução superior ou ensino médio completo declararam significativamente mais doença respiratória em seus filhos. Não houve associação entre a doença respiratória com renda per capita, classe de consumo e etnia. CONCLUSÕES: A percepção mais apurada sobre a saúde dos filhos geralmente associa-se à maior escolaridade dos pais, o que também determina melhores condições de vida. Provavelmente, por isso, os pais cujos filhos frequentavam escolas privadas e com melhor nível de escolaridade referiram mais doenças respiratórias nas crianças. Infere-se, portanto, que conquistas na percepção de saúde e, consequentemente, nas condições de saúde associam-se à melhora do nível educacional.
Avaliação e participação do fisioterapeuta na prescrição do mobiliário escolar utilizado por alunos com paralisia cerebral em escolas estaduais públicas da rede regular de ensino
Authors: Saraiva Luzia Lívia Oliveira , Melo Francisco Ricardo Lins Vieira de
Published: November 2011

O estudo teve como objetivo avaliar as condições do mobiliário escolar disponibilizado aos alunos com paralisia cerebral nas escolas estaduais da cidade do Natal/RN em 2008 e a participação do fisioterapeuta na prescrição deste mobiliário. Os dados foram coletados através de um protocolo de avaliação junto a cinco alunos com paralisia cerebral e formulário aplicado aos diretores das instituições de ensino, sendo analisados por meio das categorias suscitadas. Os resultados apontaram a presença de mobiliário escolar que não atende as necessidades específicas de posicionamento dos alunos avaliados e a ausência do fisioterapeuta na prescrição desse mobiliário. Constata-se a necessidade dos órgãos gestores no âmbito da educação de Natal/RN em cumprir o que determina a lei e disponibilizar mobiliário escolar adequado aos alunos pesquisados. Assim, procurou-se garantir os recursos necessários para promover um ensino de qualidade para os educandos com paralisia cerebral no contexto da escola regular.
Microwave-assisted multi-component synthesis of 3’-indolyl substituted pyrano[2,3-c]pyrazoles and their antimicrobial activity
Authors: Kathrotiya Harshad , Patel Ranjan , Patel Manish
Published: November 2011

A series of pyrano[2,3-c]pyrazole derivatives of indole has been synthesized
by multi-component reaction using conventional and microwave irradiation
approach. Particularly valuable features of this method include high yield,
broad substrate scope, shorter reaction time and straightforward procedure.
Antimicrobial screening against eight human pathogens, namely B. subtilis, C.
tetani, S. pneumoniae, S. typhi, V. cholerae, E. coli, A. fumigatus and C.
albicans by employing broth microdilution MIC method as recommended by NCCLS.
Cluster observations of a transient signature in the magnetotail: implications for the mode of reconnection
Authors: Beyene S. , Owen C. J. , Walsh A. P. , Forsyth C. , Fazakerley A. N. , Kiehas S. , Dandouras I. , Lucek E.
Published: November 2011

Abstract. Travelling compression regions (TCRs) are perturbations in the magnetotail lobe magnetic field caused by structures moving Earthward or tailward within the plasma sheet. Previous works have suggested that these structures are created by either time-dependant reconnection occurring at a single X-line, forming a flux-bulge-type structure, or space-variant reconnection at multiple X-lines, forming flux-rope-type structures. In this study we examine an event in which Cluster 2 observed a TCR while the 3 remaining Cluster spacecraft observed the underlying magnetic structure at a range of distances from the neutral sheet. The magnetic structure has a velocity of (99, 154, −31) km s−1 in GSM (|V| = 186 km s−1), an estimated size of 1.19 RE along the direction of travel and a size between 1.94 and 2.86 RE in the direction perpendicular to the current sheet. As the structure passes the spacecraft, Cluster 1 and Cluster 4 observed a bipolar signature in BZ, plasma-sheet-like plasma and field-aligned electron flows. Cluster 3 passed closest to the centre of the structure and observed two separate reductions in the plasma density (with field-aligned electron flows); these drop-outs in the plasma sheet were possibly created by the actions of X-lines. The second drop-out in the plasma sheet also includes a reversal of the ion flow, a signature consistent with the passage of a reconnecting X-line past the spacecraft. Between the X-lines, the plasma outflow from the X-lines caused an increase in pressure which led to a localised expansion of the plasma and also the observations at Cluster 1 and Cluster 4 and the TCR. Our observations do not uniquely match either of the flux rope or the flux bulge predictions although the observation of two plasma sheet drop-outs (interpreted as X-lines, one active, one dormant) with plasma-sheet-like between them and only one TCR is a situation expected in multiple X-line reconnection.
Photon absorption in a hybrid slurry photocatalytic reactor: Assessment of differential approximations
Authors: Orozco Sayra L. , Villafán‐Vidales Heidi I. , Arancibia‐Bulnes Camilo A.
Published: November 2011

Radiative transfer inside a slurry photocatalytic reactor with hybrid illumination from both solar radiation and lamps is examined. The local volumetric rate of photon absorption is evaluated. For this purpose, the P1 and the modified differential approximations (MDAs) are used, and results compared to a solution by the Monte Carlo method. It is found that significant differences may arise between the predictions of the above approximations and the exact results provided by the Monte Carlo simulations. The P1 approximation is very inaccurate near to the radiation entrance for the partially collimated solar radiation, although it improves, as optical depth increases. As expected, the MDA improves the results near to the boundary. Surprisingly, it turns out to be much worse than the P1 approximation at medium and large optical depths. In the case of lamp irradiation, the behavior of the MDA is the opposite; it works better at small optical depths. © 2011 American Institute of Chemical Engineers AIChE J, 58: 3256–3265, 2012
Living free radical polymerization using cyclic trifunctional initiator
Authors: Galhardo Eduardo , Machado Paula Magalhães Bonassi , Lona Liliane Maria Ferrareso
Published: November 2011

Free radical polymerization is a very robust route to produce polymers, however, it does not promote a control on the microstructure of the polymer: usually polymers with wide molecular weight distribution and polydispersity (PDI) greater than 1.5 are obtained. Ionic polymerization can be used to produce polymers with low PDI, however, this kind of route needs to be held with a high degree of purity. Living free radical polymerization (LFRP) is a promising technique to produce controlled polymers. In the literature, monofunctional conventional initiators have been used in LFRP process. In this study, the use of a cyclic trifunctional peroxide on controlled nitroxide mediated radical polymerization was investigated. The initiator used was Trigonox 301 (3,6,9‐triethyl‐3,6,9‐trimethyl‐1,4,7‐triperoxonane—41% solution in isoparaffinic hydrocarbons) and TEMPO (2,2,6,6‐tetramethyl‐1‐piperidin‐1‐oxyl) was used as controller agent. The results obtained show that it is possible to produce controlled polymers at certain operating conditions, when Trigonox 301 is used. It could be observed that the concentration of initiator and the ratio [TEMPO]/[Trigonox 301] have a huge effect on the polymer properties. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2012
Increasing nano‐particle dispersion ratio in the bubble stretching‐based technique
Authors: Wang Fei , Wang Xiaoming , Chen Fang , Zhao Xuezeng
Published: November 2011

We present a new method to increase nano‐particle migration rate in bubble stretching‐based technique. Vibration created by the inflation and shrinking process of bubbles is used. Process parameters can be adjusted to increase the probability of collision between the nano‐particles and the bubble wall. In effect, particles sufficiently migrate to the bubble wall, increasing both particle migration rate and dispersion ratio. Our measurement show that: (1) particle diameter, initial bubble radius, and initial bubble pressure strongly influence the migration of particles; (2) with appropriate parameters, nano‐particles can quickly and efficiently migrate to the bubble wall through this new method. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2012
Identification of traditional Thai colours used for mural paintings and Khon masks
Authors: Katemake Pichayada , Preda Razvan I. , Hoontrakul Dhamrongruchana
Published: November 2011

Thai colour names used for mural paintings and Khon masks are not well known, uncommonly used, and some are forgotten. They are normally known today only among few artists who inherited the knowledge to paint them from their elders. However, the artists cannot quantitatively describe the characteristics of these colours, and this is a major impediment in colour identification and preservation studies that are necessary for future restoration works of temples and artifacts. The purpose of this article is to describe our research for identifying and quantitatively describing traditional Thai colours, as part of our effort to create a “Thai Colour Name Dictionary.” In this article, we show information about colour names which have never been mentioned in any international journal until now, and we describe the method we used to identify them with physical colours. The method is exemplified on 10 colour names. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Col Res Appl, 38, 229–234, 2013.
LDA‐Mediated Cascade Carbolithiation Reactions of Vinylidenecyclopropanes with Enones and N‐Sulfonated Imines as well as Nitroalkene and (Phenylmethylidene)malononitrile
Authors: Lu Bei‐Li , Lu Jian‐Mei , Shi Min
Published: November 2011

LDA‐mediated cascade carbolithiation reactions of vinylidenecyclopropanes with enones and N‐sulfonated imines as well as nitroalkene and (phenylmethylidene)malononitrile in THF at –78 °C have been realized; the corresponding novel adducts were produced in moderate to good yields with moderate to high diastereoselectivities. The scope and limitations are discussed as well as a plausible reaction mechanism based on control experiments performed in this work and previous literature reports.
On the analysis of sequence data: testing for disease susceptibility loci using patterns of linkage disequilibrium
Authors: Lipman Peter J. , Yip Wai‐Ki , AlChawa Taofik , Ludwig Kerstin U. , Mangold Elisabeth , Lange Christoph
Published: November 2011

Despite the numerous and successful applications of genome‐wide association studies (GWASs), there has been a lot of difficulty in discovering disease susceptibility loci (DSLs). This is due to the fact that the GWAS approach is an indirect mapping technique, often identifying markers. For the identification of DSLs, which is required for the understanding of the genetic pathways for complex diseases, sequencing data that examines every genetic locus directly is necessary. Yet, there is currently a lack of methodology targeted at the identification of the DSLs in sequencing data: existing methods localize the causal variant to a region but not to a single variant, and therefore do not allow one to identify unique loci that cause the phenotype association. Here, we have developed such a method to determine if there is evidence that an individual loci affects case/control status with sequencing data. This methodology differs from other rare variant approaches: rather than testing an entire region comprised of many loci for association with the phenotype, we can identify the individual genetic locus that causes the association between the phenotype and the genetic region. For each variant, the test determines if the pattern of linkage disequilibrium (LD) across the other variants coincides with the pattern expected if that variant were a DSL. Power simulations show that the method successfully detects the causal variant, distinguishing it from other nearby variants (in high LD with the causal variant), and outperforms the standard tests. The efficiency of the method is especially apparent with small samples, which are currently realistic for studies due to sequencing data costs. The practical relevance of the approach is illustrated by an application to a sequencing dataset for nonsyndromic cleft lip with or without cleft palate. The proposed method implicated one variant (P = 0.002, 0.062 after Bonferroni correction), which was not found by standard analyses. Code for implementation is available. Genet. Epidemiol. 35:880–886, 2011. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
High‐frequency minisatellite instability of the mitochondrial genome in colorectal cancer tissue associated with clinicopathological values
Authors: Lim Sang Woo , Kim Hye Ran , Kim Hwan Young , Huh Jung Wook , Kim Young Jin , Shin Jong Hee , Suh Soon Pal , Ryang Dong Wook , Kim Hyeong Rok , Shin Myung Geun
Published: November 2011

Most studies of mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) mutations in colorectal cancer have used case‐control and case‐database comparisons without searching their clinical relevance. This study was to investigate colorectal cancer tissue‐specific mtDNA mutations from 54 matched colorectal cancer and adjacent normal tissues and then to evaluate their clinical values. This study focused on analyzing control region including mtDNA minisatellites and coding regions. Cancer tissue‐specific mtDNA mutations were found in over half of the patients (59%). The patterns of mtDNA mutations were substitution only (13%), mtDNA minisatellite instability (mtMSI) (20%) and both mutations combined (26%). mtMSI in colorectal cancer was mainly occurred in the 303 polyC (35%) and 16184 poly C (19%) minisatellite. mtDNA copy number and hydrogen peroxide level were significantly increased in colorectal cancer tissue. The amount of mtDNA large deletions was significantly decreased in colorectal cancer tissue compared with those from matched normal mucosa (p = 0.03). The activity of the mitochondrial respiratory chain enzyme complexes I, II and III in colorectal cancer tissues was impaired. mtDNA haplogroup B4 might be closely associated with colorectal cancer risk. The patient group harboring cancer tissue‐specific mtDNA mutations showed larger tumor sizes (p = 0.005) and more advanced TNM stages (p = 0.002). Thus, mtDNA mutations in colorectal cancer might be implicated in risk factors that induce poor outcomes and tumorigenesis.
Investigation of stress shielding around the Stryker Omnifit and Exeter periprosthetic hip implants using an irreversible thermodynamic‐based model
Authors: Sayyidmousavi Alireza , Bougherara Habiba
Published: November 2011

This study investigates stress shielding by predicting bone density around two different implants following total hip arthroplasty using a new thermodynamic‐based model for bone remodeling. This model is based on chemical kinetics and irreversible thermodynamics in which bone is treated as a self‐organizing system capable of exchanging matter, energy, and entropy with its surroundings. Unlike the previous works in which mechanical loading is regarded as the only stimulus for bone remodeling, this model establishes a coupling between mechanical loading and the chemical reactions involved in the process of bone remodeling. This model is incorporated into the finite element software ANSYS by means of a macro to investigate stress shielding around two different implants: Stryker Omnifit and Exeter periprosthetic hip stems. The results of the simulation showing bone density reductions of 17% in Gruen zone 1 and 27% in Gruen zones 7 around the Omnifit hip stem agree well with dual‐energy X‐ray absorptiometry (DEXA) measurements reported in the literature. On the other hand, the Exeter implant is found to result in more severe resorption in the proximal femur. This is consistent with clinical studies, which report a higher survivorship rate for HA‐coated Omnifit hip stems. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part B: Appl Biomater, 2011.
Extraction optimization of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons by alcoholic‐assisted dispersive liquid–liquid microextraction and their determination by HPLC
Authors: Fatemi Mohammad H. , Hadjmohammadi Mohammad R. , Shakeri Panteha , Biparva Pouria
Published: November 2011

A sensitive method for the extraction and determination of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) using alcoholic‐assisted dispersive liquid–liquid microextraction (AA‐DLLME) and HPLC was developed. The extraction procedure was based on alcoholic solvents for both extraction and dispersive solvents. The effective parameters (type and volume of extraction and dispersive solvents, amount of salt and stirring time) on the extraction recovery were studied and optimized utilizing factorial design (FD) and central composite design (CCD). The best recovery was achieved by FD using 2‐ethyl‐1‐hexanol as the extraction solvent and methanol as the dispersive solvent. The results showed that volume of dispersive solvent and stirring time had no effect on the recovery of PAHs. The optimized conditions were 145 μL of 2‐ethyl‐1‐hexanol as the extraction solvent and 4.2% w/v of salt (NaCl) in sample solution. The enrichment factors of PAHs were in the range of 310–325 with limits of detection of 0.002–0.8 ng/mL. The linearity was 0.01–800 ng/mL for different PAHs. The relative standard deviation (RSD) for intra‐ and inter‐day of extraction of PAHs were in the range of 1.7–7.0 and 5.6–7.3, respectively, for five measurements. The method was also successfully applied for the determination of PAHs in environmental water samples.
miR‐1915 inhibits Bcl‐2 to modulate multidrug resistance by increasing drug‐sensitivity in human colorectal carcinoma cells
Authors: Xu Ke , Liang Xin , Cui Daling , Wu Yixin , Shi Weibin , Liu Jianwen
Published: November 2011

Colorectal carcinoma is a frequent cause of cancer‐related death in the world for men and women. microRNAs are endogenous small noncoding RNAs that regulate gene expression negatively at post‐transcriptional level. Here, we investigated the possible role of microRNAs in the development of multidrug resistance (MDR) in colorectal carcinoma cells. We analyzed microRNA (miRNA) expression levels between multidrug resistant colorectal carcinoma cell line HCT116/L‐OHP and its parent cell line HCT116 using a miRNA microarray. miR‐1915 had the lowest expression of miRNA in HCT116/L‐OHP cells compared to its parental cells. Overexpression of Bcl‐2 is generally associated with tumor drug resistance, meanwhile Bcl‐2 is a predicted target of miR‐1915. We found that elevated levels of miR‐1915 in the mimics‐transfected HCT116/L‐OHP cells reduced Bcl‐2 protein level and the luciferase activity of a Bcl‐2 3′‐untranslated region‐based reporter, and also sensitized these cells to some anticancer drugs. Taken together, our findings suggest that miR‐1915 could play a role in the development of MDR in colorectal carcinoma cells at least in part by modulation of apoptosis via targeting Bcl‐2. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
JAK/STAT/SOCS‐signaling pathway and colon and rectal cancer
Authors: Slattery Martha L. , Lundgreen Abbie , Kadlubar Susan A. , Bondurant Kristina L. , Wolff Roger K.
Published: November 2011

The Janus kinase (JAK)/signal transducer and activator of transcription (STAT) signaling pathway is involved in immune function and cell growth. We evaluated the association between genetic variation in JAK1 (10 SNPs), JAK2 (9 SNPs), TYK2 (5 SNPs), suppressors of cytokine signaling (SOCS)1 (2 SNPs), SOCS2 (2 SNPs), STAT1 (16 SNPs), STAT2 (2 SNPs), STAT3 (6 SNPs), STAT4 (21 SNPs), STAT5A (2 SNPs), STAT5B (3 SNPs), STAT6 (4 SNPs) with risk of colorectal cancer. We used data from population‐based case‐control studies (colon cancer n = 1555 cases, 1,956 controls; rectal cancer n = 754 cases, 959 controls). JAK2, SOCS2, STAT1, STAT3, STAT5A, STAT5B, and STAT6 were associated with colon cancer; STAT3, STAT4, STAT6, and TYK2 were associated with rectal cancer. Given the biological role of the JAK/STAT‐signaling pathway and cytokines, we evaluated interaction with IFNG, TNF, and IL6; numerous statistically significant associations after adjustment for multiple comparisons were observed. The following statistically significant interactions were observed: TYK2 with aspirin/NSAID use; STAT1, STAT4, and TYK2 with estrogen status; and JAK2, STAT2, STAT4, STAT5A, STAT5B, and STAT6 with smoking status and colon cancer risk; JAK2, STAT6, and TYK2 with aspirin/NSAID use; JAK1 with estrogen status; STAT2 with cigarette smoking and rectal cancer. JAK2, SOCS1, STAT3, STAT5, and TYK2 were associated with colon cancer survival (hazard rate ratio (HRR) of 3.3 95% CI 2.01,5.42 for high mutational load). JAK2, SOCS1, STAT1, STAT4, and TYK2 were associated with rectal cancer survival (HRR 2.80 95% CI 1.63,4.80). These data support the importance of the JAK/STAT‐signaling pathway in colorectal cancer and suggest targets for intervention. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
A direct route to polythiophenes displaying lateral substituents: Easy one‐step synthesis and polymerization of thiophene monomers substituted by a dimethylenecarboxylate (CH2CH2COOR) appendage on the 3‐position
Authors: Sengmany Stéphane , Ceballos Claire , Belhadj Romain , Cachet‐Vivier Christine , Gall Erwan Le , Brissault Blandine , Penelle Jacques , Léonel Eric
Published: November 2011

Thiophene monomers displaying a dimethylenecarboxylate (CH2CH2COOR) substituent on the 3‐position of the aromatic ring can be easily obtained and in one step from the electrochemically induced reaction of 3‐bromothiophene with the corresponding acrylate (CH2CHCOOR). The synthesis of the ethyl ester monomer, of related 2,5‐dihalogenothiophenes, and their polymerization are reported. Despite the surprisingly low solubilities displayed by the polymers, a full spectroscopic characterization could be performed and the data fully analyzed. Oxidative polymerizations (FeCl3 or electropolymerization) yield a regioirregular polythiophene, with 60–70% of head‐to‐tail diads. Both experimental and theoretical results suggest that the nonconjugated ester plays a very minor role—if any—in the polymerizations under oxidative conditions, but has a significant influence on the polymer properties. Preliminary attempts to polymerize the dihalogenothiophenes under reductive conditions were hampered by the even lower solubilities exhibited by the regioregular oligomers. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part A: Polym Chem, 2012
Synoptic conditions favouring the occurrence of aerosol episodes over the broader Mediterranean basin
Authors: Gkikas A. , Houssos E.E. , Hatzianastassiou N. , Papadimas C.D. , Bartzokas A.
Published: November 2011

In the present study, the synoptic conditions that favour the occurrence of aerosol episodes over the broader Mediterranean basin are investigated. For this purpose daily satellite measurements of aerosol optical depth (AOD) at 550 nm from MODIS‐Terra (Collection 5) for the period from 1 March 2000 to 28 February 2007 were used together with mean‐sea‐level pressure and geopotential height at 700 hPa obtained from the NCEP/NCAR Reanalysis Project. An objective and dynamic algorithm was developed in order to determine strong and extreme aerosol episodes in the study area. According to the applied methodology and the relevant criteria, 322 days with aerosol episodes have been identified. The atmospheric circulation of each day was objectively classified by the implementation of Factor Analysis and Cluster Analysis, resulting in eight representative synoptic conditions (clusters). The aerosol episode days (AEDs) are most frequently observed during the dry period of the year, and especially in July–August (108 days or 33.5%) and April–May (106 days or 33%) and give rise to desert dust, anthropogenic pollution and biomass‐burning episodes. The most frequent synoptic conditions are those of Clusters 4 (30.1%) and 5 (21%), inducing episodes that occur primarily in the western and secondarily in the central Mediterranean. In the former case, which is observed in summer, Europe is under the influence of the extended subtropical anticyclone of the Atlantic (Azores), while the eastern Mediterranean is under the influence of the extended thermal low of south‐west Asia. In the latter case, in spring and summer, anticyclonic conditions prevail over central Europe and over the east Atlantic Ocean, and low pressures at the northwestern parts of the broader Mediterranean basin and across the Sahara. During the aerosol episode days of the various clusters, the mean regional AOD can reach values up to 0.8 ± 0.2 and 2.3 ± 1.3 for strong and extreme episodes, respectively. Copyright © 2011 Royal Meteorological Society
Longitudinal Mediation Effects of Strain on the Relationships between Role Stressors and Employees' Withdrawal Responses
Authors: Idris Mohd Kamel , O'Driscoll Michael P. , Anderson Marc H.
Published: November 2011

Previous studies have found that role stressors are related to employee withdrawal responses, although the relationships have been rather indirect. The present study examined the mediation effect of strain on the relationships between role stressors and three withdrawal responses (i.e. cynicism, reduced professional efficacy and diminished organizational commitment) among a sample of Malaysian public university academics. We collected data from 357 academics and additional data 6 months later from 210 of these academics. Results showed that role stressors were associated with withdrawal behaviours via strain. Strain mediated the relationships between role ambiguity and all three withdrawal responses and the relationship between role conflict and cynicism. These results suggest that academic managers should focus on resolving role ambiguity to enhance academics' well‐being, commitment and professional efficacy. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Ultrastructural synaptic changes associated with neurofibromatosis type 1: A quantitative analysis of hippocampal region CA1 in a Nf1+/− mouse model
Authors: Armstrong Blair C. , Le Boutillier Janelle C. , Petit Ted L.
Published: November 2011

Neurofibromatosis type 1 (NF1) is one of the most frequently diagnosed autosomal dominant inherited disorders resulting in neurological dysfunction, including an assortment of learning disabilities and cognitive deficits. To elucidate the neural mechanisms underlying the disorder, we employed a mouse model (Nf1+/−) to conduct a quantitative analysis of ultrastructural changes associated with the NF1 disorder. Using both serial light and electron microscopy, we examined reconstructions of the CA1 region of the hippocampus, which is known to play a central role in many of the dysfunctions associated with NF1. In general, the morphology of synapses in both the Nf1+/− and wild‐type groups of animals were similar. No differences were observed in synapse per neuron density, pre‐ and postsynaptic areas, or lengths. However, concave synapses were found to show a lower degree of curvature in the Nf1+/− mutant than in the wild type. These results indicate that the synaptic ultrastructure of Nf1+/− mice appears relatively normal with the exception of the degree of synaptic curvature in concave synapses, adding further support to the importance of synaptic curvature in synaptic plasticity, learning, and memory. Synapse, 2012. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
The comparative effects of environmental enrichment with exercise and serotonin transporter blockade on serotonergic neurons in the dorsal raphe nucleus
Authors: MacGillivray Lindsey , Reynolds Katelyn B. , Rosebush Patricia I. , Mazurek Michael F.
Published: November 2011

We have previously reported that inhibition of the serotonin transporter (SERT) by selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) fluoxetine significantly reduces the number of tryptophan hydroxylase (TPH)‐positive cells in the dorsal raphe nucleus (DRN). We have been interested in exploring whether this SSRI‐induced change in TPH might be modified by housing in an enriched environment. Like SSRI antidepressants, environmental enrichment (EE) and physical exercise have been found to have efficacy in the prevention and alleviation of depression. We postulated that EE with exercise and SERT inhibition would similarly affect TPH regulation and that EE with exercise might modify the effect of fluoxetine on TPH. Three week old male Sprague‐Dawley rats were housed in either a standard cage (SE) or an enriched environment (EE). SE animals were singly housed with no access to enrichment objects. EE animals were group housed and were provided with various enrichment objects (e.g. running wheel) that were changed and rearranged regularly. Nine weeks after the experiment began, the rats were randomly assigned to one of four treatment groups: (1) SE control; (2) SE fluoxetine; (3) EE control; or (4) EE fluoxetine. Fluoxetine (5 mg/kg/day) was placed in the drinking water. Sections of DRN were processed for TPH immunohistochemistry. The number of TPH‐positive cells was determined by blinded, manual counting. Results were analyzed by analysis of variance (ANOVA) followed by post‐hoc Tukey tests. Significance was set at P < 0.05. For animals housed in a standard environment, fluoxetine induced a significant 29% reduction in the number of TPH‐immunoreactive cells in the DRN. A similar reduction in TPH immunoreactivity was observed in animals that were housed in an enriched environment but not exposed to fluoxetine (39%). The number of TPH‐positive cells in the DRN for animals housed in an enriched environment and exposed to fluoxetine was not significantly different than animals housed in an enriched environment and not exposed to fluoxetine. The reduction of TPH immunoreactivity in the DRN by EE with exercise suggests that a modified housing environment and voluntary exercise affects regulation of TPH, possibly via a mechanism similar to that of SERT inhibitors. This downregulation of serotonin biosynthesis by fluoxetine and EE with exercise may ultimately play a role in the therapeutic action of both interventions. Synapse, 2012. © 2011 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Efficient TMY method of practical evaluation for solar energy utilization
Authors: Xu Qingshan , Zang Haixiang , Ichiyanagi Katsuhiro
Published: November 2011

The typical‐meteorological‐year (TMY) method is investigated in this letter, and TMYs of six cities in the Xinjiang Autonomous Region of China are generated based on the latest and accurate recorded weather data (air dry‐bulb temperature, relative humidity, wind velocity, and global solar radiation) in the period 1994–2009, using the Finkelstein–Schafer (FS) statistical method. Based on the actual situation in China, the letter proposes novel assigned weighting factors in the procedure of forming TMY data. The typical solar radiation data obtained from TMY data are essential for the evaluation of solar energy systems. © 2011 Institute of Electrical Engineers of Japan. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
STANDARDS OF NON-DISCRIMINATION IN INTERNATIONAL ECONOMIC LAW
Authors: Diebold Nicolas F
Published: November 2011

The principle of non-discrimination constitutes a corner-stone in different fields of international economic law, notably international trade in goods and services as well as intellectual property and investment protection. While its basic rationale appears to be straightforward, the application of the different legal elements which constitute a non-discrimination obligation has proven to be most challenging. Adjudicating bodies have been applying different interpretations and standards with regard to the legal elements of ‘less favourable treatment’, ‘likeness’ and ‘regulatory purpose’, which leads to a high fragmentation of the non-discrimination principle in international economic law. This article maps out the different theories for each of these elements on the examples of WTO law, NAFTA, bilateral investment treaties (BIT) and EU law and analyses how these theories affect the scope and liberalizing effect of the non-discrimination obligation. The article then attempts to develop a coherent factor-based application of non-discrimination rules suitable for all fields of international economic law. The article submits the theory that the elements of non-discrimination should not be applied as strict legal conditions which must be proven by a complainant, but as a range of factors which are weighed and balanced by the adjudicating bodies.
TOWARDS MINIMUM PROCEDURAL GUARANTEES FOR THE DEFENCE IN CRIMINAL PROCEEDINGS IN THE EU
Authors: van Puyenbroeck Laurens , Vermeulen Gert
Published: November 2011

A critical observer would not deny that the practice of European Union (‘EU’) policy making in the field of criminal law in the past decade since the implementation of the Tampere Programme has been mainly repressive and prosecution-oriented.1 The idea of introducing a set of common (minimum) rules, guaranteeing the rights of defence at a EU-wide level, has not been accorded the same attention as the introduction of instruments aimed at improving the effectiveness of crime-fighting. What does this mean for the future of EU criminal policy? Will the EU succeed in the coming years in developing an area where freedom, security and justice are truly balanced? According to several authors, to date the EU has evolved in the opposite direction. As one observer put it:

[I]f Procedural Criminal Law arises from the application of Constitutional Law, or indeed if it may be described as “a seismograph of the constitutional system of a State”, then as a consequence the Procedural Criminal Law of the European Union shows the extent of the Democratic Rule of Law, of the existence of a true “Rechtsstaat”, within an integrated Europe. This situation may be qualified as lamentable, as the main plank of the EU's criminal justice policy relates to the simplification and the speeding up of police and judicial cooperation—articles 30 and 31 of the Treaty of the EU—but without at the same time setting an acceptable standard for fundamental rights throughout a united Europe.2
Studying tectonic hazards along continental transform boundaries
Authors: McHugh Cecilia M. , Seeber Leonardo
Published: November 2011

Integrated Ocean Drilling Program Marmara‐Trans Workshop; Istanbul, Turkey, 13–16 June 2011 Continental transform boundaries such as the North Anatolia Fault (NAF) in Turkey cross heavily populated regions and are associated with destructive earthquakes. Transtension along the northern branch of the NAF is responsible for the formation of the Marmara Sea, which is 150 kilometers long and subdivided into three approximately 1200‐meter‐deep subsiding basins. This submerged segment of the NAF is considered a seismic gap presenting high risk to Istanbul and its surroundings. To the east, two earthquakes in 1999 caused much damage and approximately 17,000 deaths.