bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effectiveness of Capital Controls and Sterilizations in China
Authors: Wang Yongzhong
Published: May 2010

Since 2003, China has been facing a trilemma of determining how to maintain independent monetary policy and limit exchange rate flexibility simultaneously, while facing persistent and substantial international capital flows. The present paper is an empirical evaluation of the effectiveness of China's sterilizations and capital mobility regulations, measured by sterilization and offset coefficients, respectively, using monthly data between mid‐1999 and March 2009. We find that the effectiveness of China's sterilizations is almost perfect in terms of the monetary base, but not in terms of M2, and that China's capital controls still work but are not quite effective. Recursive estimation reveals that increasing mobility of capital flows and decreasing effectiveness of sterilizations might undercut China's ability to maintain monetary autonomy and domestic currency stability simultaneously. To solve the trilemma smoothly, China's monetary authority should continue to relax the management of the exchange rate, and take further steps towards deregulation of capital outflows.
Acetate utilization as a survival strategy of peat‐inhabiting Methylocystis spp.
Authors: Belova Svetlana E. , Baani Mohamed , Suzina Natalia E. , Bodelier Paul L. E. , Liesack Werner , Dedysh Svetlana N.
Published: May 2010

Representatives of the genus Methylocystis are traditionally considered to be obligately methanotrophic bacteria, which are incapable of growth on multicarbon substrates. Here, we describe a novel member of this genus, strain H2s, which represents a numerically abundant and ecologically important methanotroph population in northern Sphagnum‐dominated wetlands. This isolate demonstrates a clear preference for growth on methane but is able to grow slowly on acetate in the absence of methane. Strain H2s possesses both forms of methane monooxygenase (particulate and soluble MMO) and a well‐developed system of intracytoplasmic membranes (ICM). In cells grown for several transfers on acetate, these ICM are maintained, although in a reduced form, and mRNA transcripts of particulate MMO are detectable. These cells resume their growth on methane faster than those kept for the same period of time without any substrate. Growth on acetate leads to a major shift in the phospholipid fatty acid composition. The re‐examination of all type strains of the validly described Methylocystis species showed that Methylocystis heyeri H2T and Methylocystis echinoides IMET10491T are also capable of slow growth on acetate. This capability might represent an important part of the survival strategy of Methylocystis spp. in environments where methane availability is variable or limited.
Bilateral degenerative suspensory desmitis with acute rupture in a Standardbred colt
Authors: Miller K. D. , Juzwiak J. S.
Published: May 2010

A 3‐month‐old Standardbred colt was examined for acute, bilateral hindlimb swelling and lameness. Serum chemistry demonstrated elevated muscle enzymes (AST, ALT, LDH and CK). Radiographs of the hindlimbs demonstrated intact proximal sesamoid bones that were displaced distally and subluxation of the pastern joints. Ultrasonography of the affected areas revealed large, diffuse hypoechoic areas in the bodies of both hind suspensory ligaments consistent with bilateral rupture. Histology of the lesions was consistent with degenerative suspensory desmitis with acute rupture.
Surgical excision of a dentigerous cyst containing two dental structures
Authors: Easley J. T. , Franklin R. P. , Adams A.
Published: May 2010

Dentigerous cysts have been described in most domestic species and man. Horses commonly present with a swelling over the temporal region and a draining tract along the proximal pinna. Dentigerous cysts are benign structures, but pose a cosmetic problem and are commonly removed by surgical excision at an early age. This case report describes a horse with a dentigerous cyst that contained 2 easily identifiable dental structures, radiographically and grossly resembling a permanent tooth and its deciduous precursor.
Multiple‐drug resistant Acinetobacter baumannii bronchopneumonia in a colt following intensive care treatment
Authors: Jokisalo J. , Bryan J. , Legget B. , Abbott Y. , Katz L. M.
Published: May 2010

This report describes a case of a multiple‐drug resistant strain of Acinetobacter baumannii associated with bronchopneumonia in a horse. A 6‐month‐old Thoroughbred colt was examined for a chronic lower respiratory tract disease. Prior to presentation to the University Veterinary Teaching Hospital (UVTH), the colt had been treated intensively in a private equine hospital for presumed antimicrobial‐induced enterocolitis following treatment with azithromycin and rifampin, and had been discharged on treatment of doxycycline for continued lower airway abnormalities. At the UVTH, investigation of the lower airway disease included a culture of a percutaneous transtracheal wash, which identified a multiple‐drug resistant strain of A. baumannii as the causative agent with sensitivity only to fluoroquinolones and trimethoprim sulphonamides. Following treatment with marbofloxacin there was full resolution of the bronchopneumonia. A. baumannii is a major nosocomial pathogen associated with infections in both animals and man and reports of multiple‐drug resistant strains have been documented worldwide. Outbreaks of A. baumannii infections have been reported to occur in very ill human patients housed in healthcare settings such as intensive care units, and are characterised by the rapid development of resistance to the majority of antimicrobials. The difficulties in the treatment of such cases as well as the potential risk of transmission within a veterinary clinical setting are discussed.
Computed tomography of proximal metatarsal and concurrent third tarsal bone fractures in a Thoroughbred racehorse
Authors: Braim A. E. Poulin , Bell R. J. W. , Textor J. A. , Lo W. Y. , Puchalski S. M. , Galuppo L. D.
Published: May 2010

A 2‐year‐old Thoroughbred filly presented to the William R. Pritchard Veterinary Medical Teaching Hospital at the University of California at Davis for whole body nuclear scintigraphic evaluation after an acute onset of nonweightbearing right hindlimb lameness post race. The use of computed tomography (CT) enabled visualisation of additional pathology that was not initially appreciable using combined imaging modalities of nuclear scintigraphy and digital radiography, which ultimately altered the selected course of treatment. Computed tomography in horses with fractures of the cuboidal bones of the hock can provide valuable additional information regarding fracture configuration and radiographically occult pathology, which may help to guide clinical decisions about treatment.
Enteric glia modulate epithelial cell proliferation and differentiation through 15‐deoxy‐Δ12,14‐prostaglandin J2
Authors: Bach‐Ngohou Kalyane , Mahé Maxime M. , Aubert Philippe , Abdo Hind , Boni Sébastien , Bourreille Arnaud , Denis Marc G. , Lardeux Bernard , Neunlist Michel , Masson Damien
Published: May 2010

The enteric nervous system (ENS) and its major component, enteric glial cells (EGCs), have recently been identified as a major regulator of intestinal epithelial barrier functions. Indeed, EGCs inhibit intestinal epithelial cell (IEC) proliferation and increase barrier resistance and IEC adhesion via the release of EGC‐derived soluble factors. Interestingly, EGC regulation of intestinal epithelial barrier functions is reminiscent of previously reported peroxisome proliferator‐activated receptor γ(PPARγ)‐dependent functional effects. In this context, the present study aimed at identifying whether EGC could synthesize and release the main PPARγ ligand, 15‐deoxy‐Δ12,14‐prostaglandin J2 (15dPGJ2), and regulate IEC functions such as proliferation and differentiation via a PPARγ dependent pathway. First, we demonstrated that the lipocalin but not the haematopoetic form for prostaglandin D synthase (PGDS), the enzyme responsible of 15dPGJ2 synthesis, was expressed in EGCs of the human submucosal plexus and of the subepithelium, as well as in rat primary culture of ENS and EGC lines. Next, 15dPGJ2 was identified in EGC supernatants of various EGC lines. 15dPGJ2 reproduced EGC inhibitory effects upon IEC proliferation, and inhibition of lipocalin PGDS expression by shRNA abrogated these effects. Furthermore, EGCs induced nuclear translocation of PPARγ in IEC, and both EGC and 15dPGJ2 effects upon IEC proliferation were prevented by the PPARγ antagonist GW9662. Finally, EGC induced differentiation‐related gene expression in IEC through a PPARγ‐dependent pathway. Our results identified 15dPGJ2 as a novel glial‐derived mediator involved in the control of IEC proliferation/differentiation through activation of PPARγ. They also suggest that alterations of glial PGDS expression may modify intestinal epithelial barrier functions and be involved in the development of pathologies such as cancer or inflammatory bowel diseases.
Postnatal development of mouse heart: formation of energetic microdomains
Authors: Piquereau Jérôme , Novotova Marta , Fortin Dominique , Garnier Anne , Ventura‐Clapier Renée , Veksler Vladimir , Joubert Frédéric
Published: May 2010

Cardiomyocyte contractile function requires tight control of the ATP/ADP ratio in the vicinity of the myosin‐ATPase and sarcoplasmic reticulum ATPase (SERCA). In these cells, the main systems that provide energy are creatine kinase (CK), which catalyses phosphotransfer from phosphocreatine to ADP, and direct adenine nucleotide channelling (DANC) from mitochondria to ATPases. However, it is not known how and when these complex energetic systems are established during postnatal development. We therefore studied the maturation of the efficacy with which DANC and CK maintain ATP/ADP‐dependent SR and myofibrillar function (SR Ca2+ pumping and prevention of rigor tension), as well as the maturation of mitochondrial oxidative capacity. Experiments were performed on saponin‐skinned fibres from left ventricles of 3‐, 7‐, 21‐, 42‐ and 63‐day‐old mice. Cardiomyocyte and mitochondrial network morphology were characterized using electron microscopy. Our results show an early building‐up of energetic microdomains in the developing mouse heart. CK efficacy for myosin‐ATPase regulation was already maximal 3 days after birth, while for SERCA regulation it progressively increased until 21 days after birth. Seven days after birth, DANC for these two ATPases was as effective as in adult mice, despite a non‐maximal mitochondrial respiration capacity. However, 3 days after birth, DANC between mitochondria and myosin‐ATPase was not yet fully efficient. To prevent rigor tension in the presence of working mitochondria, the myosin‐ATPase needed more intracellular MgATP in 3‐day‐old mice than in 7‐day‐old mice (pMgATP50 4.03 ± 0.02 and 4.36 ± 0.07, respectively, P < 0.05), whereas the intrinsic sensitivity of myofibrils to ATP (when mitochondria were inhibited) was similar at both ages. This may be due to the significant remodelling of the cytoarchitecture that occurs between these ages (cytosolic space reduction, formation of the mitochondrial network around the myofibrils). These results reveal a link between the maturation of intracellular energy pathways and cell architecture.
Properties of low‐threshold motor axons in the human median nerve
Authors: Trevillion Louise , Howells James , Bostock Hugh , Burke David
Published: May 2010

This study investigated the excitability and accommodative properties of low‐threshold human motor axons to test whether these motor axons have greater expression of the persistent Na+ conductance, INaP. Computer‐controlled threshold tracking was used to study 22 single motor units and the data were compared with compound motor potentials of various amplitudes recorded in the same experimental session. Detailed comparisons were made between the single units and compound potentials that were 40% or 5% of maximal amplitude, the former because this is the compound potential size used in most threshold tracking studies of axonal excitability, the latter because this is the compound potential most likely to be composed entirely of motor axons with low thresholds to electrical recruitment. Measurements were made of the strength–duration relationship, threshold electrotonus, current–voltage relationship, recovery cycle and latent addition. The findings did not support a difference in INaP. Instead they pointed to greater activity of the hyperpolarization‐activated inwardly rectifying current (Ih) as the basis for low threshold to electrical recruitment in human motor axons. Computer modelling confirmed this finding, with a doubling of the hyperpolarization‐activated conductance proving the best single parameter adjustment to fit the experimental data. We suggest that the hyperpolarization‐activated cyclic nucleotide‐gated (HCN) channel(s) expressed on human motor axons may be active at rest and contribute to resting membrane potential.
Improved Efficiency of Dye-Sensitized Solar Cells Using a Vertically Aligned Carbon Nanotube Counter Electrode
Authors: Sayer Robert A. , Hodson Stephen L. , Fisher Timothy S.
Published: May 2010

Dye-sensitized solar cells (DSSCs) offer many advantages in comparison to their Si-based counterparts, including lower cost of raw materials, faster manufacturing time, and the ability to be integrated with flexible substrates. Although many advances have been made in DSSC fabrication over recent years, their efficiency remains lower than commercially available Si photovoltaic cells. Here we report improved efficiency of TiO2/anthocyanin dye solar cell using vertically aligned arrays of carbon nanotubes (CNTs) as a counter electrode. Dense vertically oriented CNT arrays are grown directly on the counter electrode using microwave plasma chemical vapor deposition and a trilayer (Ti/Al/Fe) catalyst. The resulting arrays are 30 μm in height and have a number density of approximately 5×108/mm2. By directly growing the CNTs on the counter electrode substrate, electrical interface conductance is enhanced. The performance of both as-grown and N-doped (using a nitrogen plasma) CNT arrays is reported. The fabricated DSSCs are tested under AM1.5 light. Increased short-circuit current is observed in comparison to graphite and Pt counter electrodes. We attribute this improvement to the large surface area created by the 3D structure of the arrays in comparison to the planar geometry of the graphite and Pt electrodes, as well as the excellent electrical properties of the CNTs.
A Coupled Electrical and Thermal Model for Photovoltaic Modules
Authors: Tina G.
Published: May 2010

A coupled electrical and thermal model for calculating the temperature of a photovoltaic (PV) module has been developed and implemented in a simulation tool. The input data for this model include both environmental parameters (ambient temperature, wind speed, wind direction, total irradiance, and relative humidity) and electrical variables (voltage and current). In particular, this paper discusses the impact of the electrical operating point on the PV module temperature. This information can be very useful, especially in optimizing hybrid PV/thermal system operation. Numerical and experimental results are presented.
Effective Light Harvesting of Tandem Polymer Solar Cell
Authors: Chen Yi-Chun , Yu Chao-Ying , Chen Chih-Ping , Chan Shu-Hua , Ting Ching
Published: May 2010

A novel soluble conjugated polymers, P2, with coplanar thiophene-phenylene-thiophene unit is designed and synthesized as suitable active material used in tandem cells to compensate the poly(3-hexylthiophene) (P3HT)/[6,6]-phenyl-C71 butyric acid methyl ester (PC71BM) bulk-heterojunction cell in this paper. P2 polymer bears advantages in both low optical bandgap (1.7 eV) and high hole mobility properties (3.4×10−3 cm2/V-s from field-effect transistor measurement). Furthermore, the electrochemical studies of P2 indicate desirable highest occupied molecular orbital/lowest unoccupied molecular orbital (HOMO/LUMO) band structure that enables a high open circuit voltage when pairing with PCBM acceptor. The best power conversion efficiency of this polymer solar cell thus far based on P2/PC71BM system with a weight ratio of 1:3 reached 4.4% with a short circuit current density (Jsc) of 10.2 mA/cm2, an open circuit voltage (Voc) of 0.81 V, and a fill factor (FF) of 0.53 under air mass (AM) 1.5 G (100 mW/cm2). The preliminary data of the tandem cell with indium tin oxide (ITO) glass/PEDOT:PSS/P2:PC71BM/TiOx/PEDOT:PSS/P3HT:PC71BM/TiOx/Al configuration has reached Jsc of 6.2 mA/cm2, Voc of 1.33 V, FF of 0.56 and an overall efficiency of 4.6% under AM 1.5 G (100 mW/cm2).
Study on the Change in Photovoltage by Control of Cell Gap in Dye-Sensitized Solar Cells
Authors: Lee Chaehyeon , Kang Weekyung , Ko Min Jae , Kim Kyoungkon , Park Nam-Gyu
Published: May 2010

Photo-electrochemical properties of dye-sensitized solar cells (DSSCs) were investigated by changing the gap between working and counter electrodes. The open-circuit voltage (VOC) of DSSCs was significantly increased from 616 mV to 776 mV by about 26% with 1-methyl-3-butyl imidazolium iodide (BMII) based electrolyte and from 428 mV to 513 mV by 20% with lithium iodide (LiI) based electrolyte as the cell gap increased from 16 μm to 224 μm. From the electrochemical impedance spectroscopy, it was found that the resistance of the electrolyte was increased as the cell gap widened. This resulted in the reduction in the dark current associated with the VOC enhancement. The transient photovoltage spectroscopic measurement confirmed that the time constant for charge recombination between TiO2 and electrolyte became slower as the cell gap of the DSSC with LiI electrolyte increased, which could be an additional reason for the VOC enhancement. The optimal cell gap was determined to be around 31.3 μm for the BMII electrolyte system, and around 75.5 μm for the LiI electrolyte system in terms of the energy-conversion efficiency.
Internally Circulating Fluidized Bed Reactor Using m-ZrO2 Supported NiFe2O4 Particles for Thermochemical Two-Step Water Splitting
Authors: Gokon Nobuyuki , Yamamoto Hiroki , Kondo Nobuyuki , Kodama Tatsuya
Published: May 2010

A windowed internally circulating fluidized bed reactor was tested using m-ZrO2-supported NiFe2O4(NiFe2O4/m-ZrO2) particles as redox material for thermochemical two-step water splitting to produce hydrogen from water. The internally circulating fluidized bed of NiFe2O4/m-ZrO2 particles is directly heated by solar-simulated Xe light irradiation through a transparent quartz window mounted on top of the reactor. A sun simulator with three Xe lamps at laboratory scale has been newly installed in our laboratory for testing the fluidized bed reactor. The input power of incident Xe light can be scaled up to 2.6 kWth. Temperature distributions within the fluidized bed are measured under concentrated Xe light irradiation with an input power of 2.6 kWth. Hydrogen productivity and reactivity for the fluidized bed of NiFe2O4/m-ZrO2 particles are examined using two different reactors under the N2 flow rate and flow ratio, which yield a higher bed temperature. The feasibility of successive two-step water splitting using the fluidized bed reactor is examined by switching from N2 gas flow in the thermal reduction step to a steam/N2 gas mixture in the water decomposition step. It is confirmed that hydrogen production takes place in the single fluidized bed reactor by successive two-step water splitting.
Influence of Dye Adsorption Solvent on the Performance of a Mesoporous TiO2 Dye-Sensitized Solar Cell Using Infrared Organic Dye
Authors: Ono Takahiko , Yamaguchi Takeshi , Arakawa Hironori
Published: May 2010

The influence of a dye adsorption solvent of an infrared organic dye (NK-6037) on solar cell performance was investigated in a mesoporous TiO2 dye-sensitized solar cell (DSC). Various types of alcohols and a mixture of ethanol and tertiary-butanol (t-butanol) were applied as dye adsorption solvents. It was confirmed that the species of dye adsorption solvent significantly influences the performance of a DSC. Decreasing the specific dielectric constant of the dye adsorption solvent caused the amount of dye adsorbed on the TiO2 photoelectrode to increase dramatically. It is suggested that the specific dielectric constant of the dye adsorption solvent influences the solvation state of the NK-6037 dye in the solvent, thus determining, for instance, whether the dye is in the monomer state or the aggregate state. Interestingly, solar cell performance was not linearly proportional to the adsorbed amount of dye but a precise optimum amount of adsorbed dye was required for the best performance of the DSC. The optimum amount of adsorbed dye was approximately 5.0×10−8 mol/cm2 and it was obtained by using solvents having a dielectric constant of approximately 18. This condition was realized by 1-butanol, 2-propanol, and a mixture of ethanol and t-butanol with a volume ratio of 7:3. The best efficiency obtained for the DSC was 1.7%, using the optimum amount of the adsorbed infrared dye NK-6037. It is speculated that an excess of dye on the TiO2 photoelectrode accelerates the formation of H-type dye aggregates, resulting in a decrease in short circuit photocurrent (Jsc) by unfavorable side reactions of electron loss. It is demonstrated that dye adsorption solvent selection is the critical factor in obtaining high performance in a DSC
A Simple Preparation Method of Visible-Light-Driven BiVO4 Photocatalysts From Oxide Starting Materials (Bi2O3 and V2O5) and Their Photocatalytic Activities
Authors: Iwase Akihide , Kato Hideki , Kudo Akihiko
Published: May 2010

BiVO 4 powder was easily prepared from Bi2O3 and V2O5 in an aqueous nitric acid solution at room temperature. The obtained crystal structure depended on the molar ratio of Bi2O3 to V2O5, which is the concentration and volume of an aqueous nitric acid solution. BiVO4 with monoclinic scheelite structure formed using starting materials, in which the molar ratio of Bi2O3 to V2O5 was 1:1. When the molar ratio was 4:3, BiVO4 with tetragonal zircon structure was obtained. Although BiVO4 with monoclinic scheelite structure was platelike particles reflecting the crystal structure, the thickness of the particle increased with an increase in the concentration of an aqueous nitric acid solution. The obtained BiVO4 with monoclinic scheelite structure showed good photocatalytic performances for O2 evolution and methylene blue degradation under visible-light irradiation.
Dye Mixing Effects on Photocatalytic Water Splitting Activity on Dye-Modified KTaO3 Catalyst
Authors: Hagiwara Hidehisa , Matsumoto Hiroshige , Ishihara Tatsumi
Published: May 2010

Dye mixing effects on water splitting activity of KTaO3 photocatalyst modified by various porphyrinoids was investigated. Photocatalytic activity of dye-modified KTaO3 catalyst is greatly improved by mixing various porphyrinoids, in which transition metals such as Cr, Fe, and Co are used as central metal. Pentametylene bis[4-(10, 15, 20-triphenyl porphine-5-yl) benzoate]-dizinc(II) (Zn-TPP dimer) showed positive effect on photocatalytic activity, and H2 and O2 formation rates are 365 μmol g−cat.−1 h−1 and 152 μmol g−cat.−1 h−1, respectively. On the other hand, the combination of chloroprotoporphyrinato iron (III) (chlorohemin) with Cr-phthalocyanine (CrPc) is the most effective for increasing water splitting activity, and the formation rates of H2 and O2 are 2.12 mmol g−cat.−1 h−1 and 1.11 mmol g−cat.−1 h−1, respectively. Energy conversion efficiency of this photocatalyst is estimated to be approximately 0.05%. From X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy measurement and cyclic voltammetry of organic dyes, it is suggested that the electronic state of the dye mixture is modified compared with that of a single dye. Energy transfer between mixing dyes is observed in the fluorescence spectra of dye-modified KTaO3 photocatalysts. Recombination of photoexited charge in KTaO3 is clearly suppressed by dye mixing, thus improvement of photocatalytic activity is attributed to the lengthening of excitation lifetime. This study reveals that mixing porphyrinoid dyes is an effective method for increasing water splitting activity of dye-modified KTaO3 photocatalysts.
Concentrating Solar Power Development in China
Authors: Wang Zhifeng , Li Xin , Yao Zhihao , Zhang Meimei
Published: May 2010

Research on concentrating solar power (CSP) technologies began in 1979 in China. With pressure on environmental and energy resources, the CSP technology development has been accelerating since 2003. After 30 years of development, China has made significant progress on solar absorbing materials, solar thermal-electrical conversion materials, solar energy storage materials, solar concentrator equipments, evacuated tube solar trough collectors, solar thermal receivers, solar dish-Stirling systems, solar high-temperature air power generations, and solar power tower system designs. A 1 MW solar tower plant demonstration project landmark is currently being built in Beijing, to be completed by 2010 with a maximum temperature of 390°C and pressure of 2.35 MPa.
Thermofluidynamic Model and Comparative Analysis of Parabolic Trough Collectors Using Oil, Water/Steam, or Molten Salt as Heat Transfer Fluids
Authors: Montes M. J. , Abánades A. , Martínez-Val J. M.
Published: May 2010

This paper describes the development and use of a thermofluidynamic model for parabolic trough collectors, specifically suited for carrying out systematic calculations on different design options. The model is based on detailed energy balances, and it has been applied to evaluate collector thermal performances with different working fluids: oil, molten salt, or water/steam. For each heat transfer fluid technology, four parameters have been analyzed: collector length, absorber tube diameter, working temperature, and pressure. The influence of these factors has been studied from the point of view of heat loss, pressure drop, energy, and exergy efficiencies. Exergy is considered the suitable magnitude to guide any optimization process in this field, because it accounts for all relevant energy gains and losses, characterized by their corresponding temperature and pressure. Preliminary conclusions point out that direct steam generation is more efficient than oil and molten salt systems.
Advances in Near-Optimal Control of Passive Building Thermal Storage
Authors: Henze Gregor P. , Florita Anthony R. , Brandemuehl Michael J. , Felsmann Clemens , Cheng Hwakong
Published: May 2010

Using a simulation and optimization environment, this paper presents advances toward near-optimal building thermal mass control derived from full factorial analyses of the important parameters influencing the passive thermal storage process for a range of buildings and climate/utility rate structure combinations. Guidelines for the application of, and expected savings from, building thermal mass control strategies that can be easily implemented and result in a significant reduction in building operating costs and peak electrical demand are sought. In response to the actual utility rates imposed in the investigated cities, fundamental insights and control simplifications are derived from those buildings deemed suitable candidates. The near-optimal strategies are derived from the optimal control trajectory, consisting of four variables, and then tested for effectiveness and validated with respect to uncertainty regarding building parameters and climate variations. Due to the overriding impact of the utility rate structure on both savings and control strategy, combined with the overwhelming diversity of utility rates offered to commercial building customers, this study cannot offer universally valid control guidelines. Nevertheless, a significant number of cases, i.e., combinations of buildings, weather, and utility rate structure, have been investigated, which offer both insights and recommendations for simplified control strategies. These guidelines represent a good starting point for experimentation with building thermal mass control for a substantial range of building types, equipments, climates, and utility rates.
Effects of Particle Size and Substrate Surface Properties on Deposition Dynamics of Inkjet-Printed Colloidal Drops for Printable Photovoltaics Fabrication
Authors: Biswas S. , Gawande S. , Bromberg V. , Sun Y.
Published: May 2010

Using fluorescence microscopy, the inkjet deposition dynamics of monodispersed polystyrene particles in the size range of 0.02–1.1 μm have been studied on glass, Ar plasma cleaned glass, and PDMS coated glass substrates. The results show that the substrate properties play an important role in determining the final dried patterns formed by the colloidal particles. Our observations also reveal that particle size and contact angle formed by the solvent in the dispersion determine how close to the contact line the particles can be deposited. It is found that smaller particles can move closer to the deposited contact line than particles with bigger sizes. This study can serve as a realistic experimental model system for a number of fundamental queries on how the final deposition microstructure depends on the ink formulation and substrate properties. The knowledge obtained here can be explored further to optimize process parameters for the fabrication of hybrid solar cells with improved morphology and device properties.
Found in Translation?
Authors: Adler Elizabeth M.
Published: May 2010

The netrin receptor DCC regulates local protein translation.
Lending a Helping Hand
Authors: Foley John F.
Published: May 2010

The functional diversity of GABA
B
receptor responses is endowed by tetrameric KCTD proteins that are part of the receptor complex.
CRAC Team
Authors: Wong Wei
Published: May 2010

CRACR2A regulates the sensitivity of CRAC channels to calcium.
Systemic Nodulation Regulation
Authors: Gough Nancy R.
Published: May 2010

Peptide signals of the CLE family provide both local and systemic regulation of plant-bacteria symbiosis.
siRNA Movement in Plant Tissues
Authors: Riddihough Guy
Published: May 2010

Small double-stranded interfering RNAs move between cells and can direct DNA methylation.
It's a Knockout
Authors: Hurtley Stella M.
Published: May 2010

A calcium-dependent protein kinase is essential for blood-stage proliferation of the human malaria parasite.
Fueling the Cancer Cell
Authors: Ray L. Bryan
Published: May 2010

Altered metabolic needs of cancer cells may provide a means to selectively inhibit their growth.
Counting Na
+
Channels One by One
Authors: Stern Peter R.
Published: May 2010

Freeze fracture methods allow a numerical estimate of Na
+
channel density in different compartments of CA1 pyramidal cells.
Gyrate: CCM3 Dances with a Different Angiogenic Partner
Authors: Dyer Laura A. , Portbury Andrea L. , Patterson Cam
Published: May 2010

CCM3 is a key regulator of a major signaling pathway involved in vascular development.
Drug Resistance Mutations in HIV-Infected Patients in the Spanish Drug Resistance Database Failing Tipranavir and Darunavir Therapy
Authors: Poveda Eva , Anta Lourdes , Blanco José Luis , Casado José Luis , Gutiérrez Félix , García Federico , Gómez-Sirvent Juan Luis , Iribarren José Antonio , Soriano Vincent , de Mendoza Carmen
Published: May 2010

The presence of resistance mutations in patients failing tipranavir or darunavir was examined at the national drug resistance database of the Spanish AIDS Research Network. Although mutations emerging during tipranavir and darunavir failures differed considerably, cross-resistance was found in up to half of the patients tested. Interestingly, mutation 54L, which is associated with tipranavir hypersusceptibility, was selected in half of the darunavir failures. Thus, resistance testing seems mandatory to ensure the benefit of the sequential use of these drugs.
In Vitro
and
In Vivo
Trypanocidal Effects of the Cyclopalladated Compound 7a, a Drug Candidate for Treatment of Chagas' Disease
Authors: Matsuo Alisson L. , Silva Luis S. , Torrecilhas Ana C. , Pascoalino Bruno S. , Ramos Thiago C. , Rodrigues Elaine G. , Schenkman Sergio , Caires Antonio C. F. , Travassos Luiz R.
Published: May 2010

Chagas' disease, a neglected tropical infection, affects about 18 million people, and 100 million are at risk. The only drug available, benznidazole, is effective in the acute form and in the early chronic form, but its efficacy and tolerance are inversely related to the age of the patients. Side effects are frequent in elderly patients. The search for new drugs is thus warranted. In the present study we evaluated the
in vitro
and
in vivo
effect of a cyclopalladated compound (7a) against
Trypanosoma cruzi
, the agent of Chagas' disease. The 7a compound inhibits trypomastigote cell invasion, decreases intracellular amastigote proliferation, and is very effective as a trypanocidal drug
in vivo
, even at very low dosages. It was 340-fold more cytotoxic to parasites than to mammalian cells and was more effective than benznidazole in all
in vitro
and
in vivo
experiments. The 7a cyclopalladate complex exerts an apoptosis-like death in
T. cruzi
trypomastigote forms and causes mitochondrion disruption seen by electron microscopy.
Comparison of Caspofungin MICs by Means of EUCAST Method EDef 7.1 Using Two Different Concentrations of Glucose
Authors: Rodriguez-Tudela Juan Luis , Gomez-Lopez Alicia , Arendrup Maiken C. , Garcia-Effron Guillermo , Perlin David S. , Lass-Flörl Cornelia , Cuenca-Estrella Manuel
Published: May 2010

According to the product insert for Cancidas (caspofungin acetate), the drug must not be diluted in solutions containing glucose as this decreases caspofungin stability. The aim of this study was to compare caspofungin MICs for a collection of yeasts by means of EUCAST method EDef7.1 but using two different concentrations of glucose: 2% versus 0.2%. MICs were identical or within one 2-fold dilution for 93 out of 95 strains (97.9%), showing that glucose does not interfere with susceptibility.
Functional Selection of Hepatitis C Virus Envelope E2-Binding Peptide Ligands by Using Ribosome Display
Authors: Chen Fang , Zhao Yinglan , Liu Min , Li Dongqing , Wu Hongyan , Chen Haidan , Zhu Yongzhe , Luo Fengling , Zhong Jin , Zhou Yidan , Qi Zhongtian , Zhang Xiao-Lian
Published: May 2010

Small peptides that inhibit the hepatitis C virus (HCV) at the stage of viral entry have the potential to serve as attractive antiviral drugs. Ribosome display is a cell-free system for
in vitro
selection of peptides from large random peptide libraries. Thus, we utilized a ribosome display library technique for affinity selection of HCV envelope protein E2-binding peptide ligands. Through 13 rounds of selection, the ribosome display system generated high-affinity 12-mer peptides, and the selected peptide PE2D (MARHRNWPLVMV) demonstrated the highest specificity and affinity to the HCV E2 protein. Furthermore, amino acids 489 to 508 (YPPRPCGIVPAKSVCGPVYC) of E2 were identified as crucial for binding to PE2D. The selected peptides, especially PE2D, not only dramatically blocked E2 protein binding to hepatocytes but also dramatically inhibited HCV cell culture (HCVcc) entry into hepatocytes. HCVcc and HCV particles from HCV patient serum samples could also be specifically captured using PE2D. Our study demonstrates that the newly selected peptide ligand PE2D holds great promise for developing a new molecular probe, a therapeutic drug specifically for HCV, or an early-diagnostic reagent for HCV surface envelope antigen E2.
Targeted Surveillance of Methicillin-Resistant
Staphylococcus aureus
and Its Potential Use To Guide Empiric Antibiotic Therapy
Authors: Harris Anthony D. , Furuno Jon P. , Roghmann Mary-Claire , Johnson Jennifer K. , Conway Laurie J. , Venezia Richard A. , Standiford Harold C. , Schweizer Marin L. , Hebden Joan N. , Moore Anita C. , Perencevich Eli N.
Published: May 2010

The present study aimed to determine the frequency of methicillin-resistant
Staphylococcus aureus
(MRSA)-positive clinical culture among hospitalized adults in different risk categories of a targeted MRSA active surveillance screening program and to assess the utility of screening in guiding empiric antibiotic therapy. We completed a prospective cohort study in which all adults admitted to non-intensive-care-unit locations who had no history of MRSA colonization or infection received targeted screening for MRSA colonization upon hospital admission. Anterior nares swab specimens were obtained from all high-risk patients, defined as those who self-reported admission to a health care facility within the previous 12 months or who had an active skin infection on admission. Data were analyzed for the subcohort of patients in whom an infection was suspected, determined by (i) receipt of antibiotics within 48 h of admission and/or (ii) the result of culture of a sample for clinical analysis (clinical culture) obtained within 48 h of admission. Overall, 29,978 patients were screened and 12,080 patients had suspected infections. A total of 46.4% were deemed to be at high risk on the basis of the definition presented above, and 11.1% of these were MRSA screening positive (colonized). Among the screening-positive patients, 23.8% had a sample positive for MRSA by clinical culture. Only 2.4% of patients deemed to be at high risk but found to be screening negative had a sample positive for MRSA by clinical culture, and 1.6% of patients deemed to be at low risk had a sample positive for MRSA by clinical culture. The risk of MRSA infection was far higher in those who were deemed to be at high risk and who were surveillance culture positive. Targeted MRSA active surveillance may be beneficial in guiding empiric anti-MRSA therapy.
Endocannabinoids Inhibit the Growth of Free-Living Amoebae
Authors: Dey Rafik , Pernin Pierre , Bodennec Jacques
Published: May 2010

The cannabinoid Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol inhibits the growth of some pathogenic amoebaein vitroand exacerbates amoebic encephalitis in animal models. However, the effects of endogenous cannabinoids on amoebae remain unknown. Therefore, we tested several endocannabinoids (N-acyl ethanolamines and 2-O-acyl glycerol) on different genera of amoebae. The results showed that all of the endocannabinoids tested inhibit amoebic growth at subpharmacological doses, with 50% inhibitory concentrations ranging from 15 to 20 μM. A nonhydrolyzable endocannabinoid had similar effects, showing that the inhibition seen results from endocannabinoidsper serather than from a catabolic product.
Directed Screen of
Francisella novicida
Virulence Determinants Using
Drosophila melanogaster
Authors: Åhlund Monika K. , Rydén Patrik , Sjöstedt Anders , Stöven Svenja
Published: May 2010

Francisella tularensis
is a highly virulent, facultative intracellular human pathogen whose virulence mechanisms are not well understood. Occasional outbreaks of tularemia and the potential use of
F. tularensis
as a bioterrorist agent warrant better knowledge about the pathogenicity of this bacterium. Thus far, genome-wide
in vivo
screens for virulence factors have been performed in mice, all however restricted by the necessity to apply competition-based, negative-selection assays. We wanted to individually evaluate putative virulence determinants suggested by such assays and performed directed screening of 249
F. novicida
transposon insertion mutants by using survival of infected fruit flies as a measure of bacterial virulence. Some 20% of the genes tested were required for normal virulence in flies; most of these had not previously been investigated in detail
in vitro
or
in vivo
. We further characterized their involvement in bacterial proliferation and pathogenicity in flies and in mouse macrophages. Hierarchical cluster analysis of mutant phenotypes indicated a functional linkage between clustered genes. One cluster grouped all but four genes of the
Francisella
pathogenicity island and other loci required for intracellular survival. We also identified genes involved in adaptation to oxidative stress and genes which might induce host energy wasting. Several genes related to type IV pilus formation demonstrated hypervirulent mutant phenotypes. Collectively, the data demonstrate that the bacteria in part use similar virulence mechanisms in mammals as in
Drosophila melanogaster
but that a considerable proportion of the virulence factors active in mammals are dispensable for pathogenicity in the insect model.
Role of the Membrane Localization Domain of the
Pseudomonas aeruginosa
Effector Protein ExoU in Cytotoxicity
Authors: Veesenmeyer Jeff L. , Howell Heather , Halavaty Andrei S. , Ahrens Sebastian , Anderson Wayne F. , Hauser Alan R.
Published: May 2010

ExoU is a potent effector protein that causes rapid host cell death upon injection by the type III secretion system of
Pseudomonas aeruginosa
. The N-terminal half of ExoU contains a patatin-like phospholipase A
2
(PLA
2
) domain that requires the host cell cofactor superoxide dismutase 1 (SOD1) for activation, while the C-terminal 137 amino acids constitute a membrane localization domain (MLD). Previous studies had utilized insertion and deletion mutations to show that portions of the MLD are required for membrane localization and catalytic activity. Here we further characterize this domain by identifying six residues that are essential for ExoU activity. Substitutions at each of these positions resulted in abrogation of membrane targeting, decreased ExoU-mediated cytotoxicity, and reductions in PLA
2
activity. Likewise, each of the six MLD residues was necessary for full virulence in cell culture and murine models of acute pneumonia. Purified recombinant ExoU proteins with substitutions at five of the six residues were not activated by SOD1, suggesting that these five residues are critical for activation by this cofactor. Interestingly, these same five ExoU proteins were partially activated by HeLa cell extracts, suggesting that a host cell cofactor other than SOD1 is capable of modulating the activity of ExoU. These findings add to our understanding of the role of the MLD in ExoU-mediated virulence.
The dehydrogenation of combined organic and inorganic hydrogen-storage carriers
Authors: Wechsler Dominik , Davis Boyd , Jessop Philip G.
Published: May 2010

A thermally balanced H2 storage system can be created by combining an H2 carrier that releases H2 endothermically with one that releases H2 exothermically. Here, we describe combinations of H2 carriers wherein both carriers release H2 by dehydrogenation rather than by hydrolysis. The endothermic carriers tested were heterocyclic organic liquids, while the exothermic carriers were amine-borane compounds. The options of having the two carriers chemically bound together or merely physically mixed together were explored. With both options, the exothermic carrier inhibited the endothermic carrier, either by chemically affecting the heterocyclic ring of the endothermic carrier or by decreasing the activity of the heterogeneous dehydrogenation catalyst.
Removal of Cd(II) and Pb(II) complexes with glycolic acid from aqueous solutions on different ion exchangers
Authors: Jachuła Justyna , Kołodyńska Dorota , Hubicki Zbigniew
Published: May 2010

The sorption of Cd(II) and Pb(II) ions from aqueous solutions on different ion exchangers was investigated by using glycolic acid (GA) as a complexing agent. Glycolic acid is useful for organic synthesis in oxidation–reduction, esterification, and long-chain polymerization. The experiments were carried out by using the following chelating ion exchangers: Purolite S-930, Purolite S-940, Purolite S-950, Diaion CR-20, and Wofatit MC-50 and the cationic ion exchangers: Purolite C-104, Lewatit CNP-80, and Lewatit SP-112. The influence of the initial concentration of Cd(II) and Pb(II) and glycolic acid, pH of the solution, and phase contact time on the sorption percentage was determined in the batch experiments. Pseudo-first-order and pseudo-second-order kinetic models were used to describe the kinetic data, and the rate constants were evaluated. The experimental data, fitted using the Langmuir and Freundlich adsorption models, were applied to describe the equilibrium isotherms and determined the isotherm constants. The Cd(II) and Pb(II) concentrations in the raffinate were determined by the AAS method.
Electrophilicity of a 9-aryl-9-fluorenyl cation in water — Kinetic evidence for antiaromaticity
Authors: Ward Sarah , Messier Tammy , Lukeman Matthew
Published: May 2010

The 9-(4-methoxyphenyl)-9-fluorenyl cation (2) has been generated in 100% water by laser flash photolysis of 9-(4-methoxyphenyl)-9-fluorenol (3), representing the first observation of a 9-fluorenyl cation in this solvent with lifetimes in the microsecond timescale. The relatively long lifetime permitted quenching studies with a number of anionic nucleophiles, and bimolecular rate constants for each were determined. For both bromide and iodide, rate data suggest that an equilibrium between the cation and trapped product is rapidly established, followed by slower, irreversible trapping of the cation by water. The bimolecular rate constants obtained show that the generated 9-fluorenyl cation is significantly more reactive towards nucleophilic attack, by two orders of magnitude, than related triarylmethyl cations that lack the 4n π-system, lending support to the characterization of fluorenyl cations as antiaromatic.
Determination of diltiazem based on the reduction of Cu(II)–BCA complexes in micellar medium
Authors: Sabino Larissa Zuppardo Lacerda , Marino Daniele Cestari , Moya Horacio Dorigan
Published: May 2010

A simple method was developed for determining microquantities of diltiazem, based on the reduction of copper(II) in buffered solution (pH 7.0) and the use of a micellar medium containing 4,4′-dicarboxy-2,2′-biquinoline acid. The copper(I) produced reacts with 4,4′-dicarboxy-2,2′-biquinoline acid and the complexes formed are spectrophotometrically measured at 558 nm. A typical calibration graph shows good linearity (r = 0.993) from 20 to 100 μg mL–1of diltiazem. The limit of detection and relative standard deviation were calculated as 12 μg mL–1(99% confidence level) and 3.5% (40 μg mL–1; n = 6), respectively, with a mean recovery value of 96.5% found in pharmaceutical dosages. A straightforward and effective way to recycle the reagents is addressed. The hazardous aspects of the Cu(I)–BCA reaction are presented as well.
UNICITY THEOREMS WITH TRUNCATED MULTIPLICITIES OF MEROMORPHIC MAPPINGS IN SEVERAL COMPLEX VARIABLES SHARING SMALL IDENTICAL SETS FOR MOVING TARGETS
Authors: PHAM HOANG HA , QUANG SI DUC , DO DUC THAI
Published: May 2010

In this article, unicity theorems with truncated multiplicities of meromorphic mappings in several complex variables sharing small identical sets for moving targets are given.
APPROXIMATION OF NEGATIVE PLURISUBHARMONIC FUNCTIONS WITH GIVEN BOUNDARY VALUES
Authors: HED LISA
Published: May 2010

In this paper, we study the approximation of negative plurisubharmonic functions with given boundary values. We want to approximate a plurisubharmonic function by an increasing sequence of plurisubharmonic functions defined on strictly larger domains.
A MULTIDIMENSIONAL ANALOGUE OF THE SIMPSON'S FORMULA OF INTEGRAL
Authors: FUJII KAZUYUKI
Published: May 2010

The Simpson's formula is obtained by approximating the integral of a function on some interval by the integral of the quadratic polynomial determined by the function. However, a multidimensional analogue of the formula has not been given as far as we know.

In this paper such a formula is given. Our formula is simple and beautiful, so it may be convenient in Mathematics or Mathematical Physics.