bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
REDD1 deletion prevents dexamethasone-induced skeletal muscle atrophy
Authors: Britto Florian A. , Begue Gwenaelle , Rossano Bernadette , Docquier Aurélie , Vernus Barbara , Sar Chamroeun , Ferry Arnaud , Bonnieu Anne , Ollendorff Vincent , Favier François B.
Published: October 2014

REDD1 (regulated in development and DNA damage response 1) has been proposed to inhibit the mechanistic target of rapamycin complex 1 (mTORC1) during in vitro hypoxia. REDD1 expression is low under basal conditions but is highly increased in response to several catabolic stresses, like hypoxia and glucocorticoids. However, REDD1 function seems to be tissue and stress dependent, and its role in skeletal muscle in vivo has been poorly characterized. Here, we investigated the effect of REDD1 deletion on skeletal muscle mass, protein synthesis, proteolysis, and mTORC1 signaling pathway under basal conditions and after glucocorticoid administration. Whereas skeletal muscle mass and typology were unchanged between wild-type (WT) and REDD1-null mice, oral gavage with dexamethasone (DEX) for 7 days reduced tibialis anterior and gastrocnemius muscle weights as well as tibialis anterior fiber size only in WT. Similarly, REDD1 deletion prevented the inhibition of protein synthesis and mTORC1 activity (assessed by S6, 4E-BP1, and ULK1 phosphorylation) observed in gastrocnemius muscle of WT mice following single DEX administration for 5 h. However, our results suggest that REDD1-mediated inhibition of mTORC1 in skeletal muscle is not related to the modulation of the binding between TSC2 and 14-3-3. In contrast, our data highlight a new mechanism involved in mTORC1 inhibition linking REDD1, Akt, and PRAS40. Altogether, these results demonstrated in vivo that REDD1 is required for glucocorticoid-induced inhibition of protein synthesis via mTORC1 downregulation. Inhibition of REDD1 may thus be a strategy to limit muscle loss in glucocorticoid-mediated atrophy.
Inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate receptor type II (InsP3R-II) is reduced in obese mice, but metabolic homeostasis is preserved in mice lacking InsP3R-II
Authors: Feriod Colleen N. , Nguyen Lily , Jurczak Michael J. , Kruglov Emma A. , Nathanson Michael H. , Shulman Gerald I. , Bennett Anton M. , Ehrlich Barbara E.
Published: October 2014

Inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate receptor type II (InsP3R-II) is the most prevalent isoform of the InsP3R in hepatocytes and is concentrated under the canalicular membrane, where it plays an important role in bile secretion. We hypothesized that altered calcium (Ca2+) signaling may be involved in metabolic dysfunction, as InsP3R-mediated Ca2+signals have been implicated in the regulation of hepatic glucose homeostasis. Here, we find that InsP3R-II, but not InsP3R-I, is reduced in the livers of obese mice. In our investigation of the functional consequences of InsP3R-II deficiency, we found that organic anion secretion at the canalicular membrane and Ca2+signals were impaired. However, mice lacking InsP3R-II showed no deficits in energy balance, glucose production, glucose tolerance, or susceptibility to hepatic steatosis. Thus, our results suggest that reduced InsP3R-II expression is not sufficient to account for any disruptions in metabolic homeostasis that are observed in mouse models of obesity. We conclude that metabolic homeostasis is maintained independently of InsP3R-II. Loss of InsP3R-II does impair secretion of bile components; therefore, we suggest that conditions of obesity would lead to a decrease in this Ca2+-sensitive process.
Hepatocyte Growth Factor Levels in the Saliva and Gingival Crevicular Fluid in Smokers with Periodontitis
Authors: Anil Sukumaran , Vellappally Sajith , Preethanath R. S. , Mokeem Sameer A. , AlMoharib Hani S. , Patil Shankargouda , Chalisserry Elna P. , Al Kheraif Abdulaziz A.
Published: October 2014

Hepatocyte growth factor (HGF) production by oral fibroblasts is enhanced by various molecules that are induced during inflammatory conditions including periodontitis. HGF plays an important role in the progression of periodontitis, by stimulating intense growth of epithelial cells and preventing regeneration of connective tissue attachments. Smokers have a greater risk factor in the pathogenesis and progression of periodontal disease. The objective of the study was to estimate the level of HGF in saliva and gingival crevicular fluid (GCF) in smokers with periodontitis and to compare these levels with that of nonsmokers with periodontitis and healthy controls. The HGF levels were found to be significantly high in the saliva and GCF of smokers with periodontitis compared to both never-smokers with periodontitis and the healthy control group. The elevated levels of HGF in the saliva and GCF in the study population could explain the intrinsic mechanism triggering the severity of the periodontitis in smokers. Further studies are necessary to validate the current observations and to establish a sensitive marker to predict periodontal disease activity.
Glycyrrhizae Radix Methanol Extract Attenuates Methamphetamine‐Induced Locomotor Sensitization and Conditioned Place Preference
Authors: Zhao ZhengLin , Kim Young Woo , Yang YuPeng , Zhang Jie , Jung Ji Yun , Chang Suchan , Cho Il Je , Zhou FuBo , Zhao JunChang , Lee Bong Hyeo , Yang Chae Ha , Kim Sang Chan , Zhao RongJie
Published: October 2014

Glycyrrhizae Radix modulates the neurochemical and locomotor alterations induced by acute psychostimulants in rodents via GABAb receptors. This study investigated the influence of methanol extract from Glycyrrhizae Radix (MEGR) on repeated methamphetamine‐ (METH‐) induced locomotor sensitization and conditioned place preference (CPP). A cohort of rats was treated with METH (1 mg/kg/day) for 6 consecutive days, subjected to 6 days of withdrawal, and then challenged with the same dose of METH to induce locomotor sensitization; during the withdrawal period, the rats were administered MEGR (60 or 180 mg/kg/day). A separate cohort of rats was treated with either METH or saline every other day for 6 days in METH‐paired or saline‐paired chambers, respectively, to induce CPP. These rats were also administered MEGR (180 mg/kg) prior to every METH or CPP expression test. Pretreatment with MEGR (60 and 180 mg/kg/day) attenuated the expression of METH‐induced locomotor sensitization dose‐dependently, and 180 mg/kg MEGR significantly inhibited the development and expression of METH‐induced CPP. Furthermore, administration of a selective GABAb receptor antagonist (SCH50911) prior to MEGR treatment effectively blocked the inhibitory effects of MEGR on locomotor sensitization, but not CPP. These results suggest that Glycyrrhizae Radix blocked repeated METH‐induced behavioral changes via GABAb receptors.
An Efficient Data Collection Protocol Based on Multihop Routing and Single-Node Cooperation in Wireless Sensor Networks
Authors: Zheng Guoqiang , Li Bing , Li Jishun , Ma Huahong , Ji Baofeng
Published: October 2014

Considering the constrained resource and energy in wireless sensor networks, an efficient data collection protocol named ESCDD which adopts the multihop routing technology and the single-node selection cooperative communication is proposed to make the communication protocol more simple and easy to realize for the large-scale multihop wireless sensor networks. ESCDD uses the greedy strategy and the control information based on RTS/CTS to select forwarding nodes. Then, the hops in the multihop data transmission are reduced. Based on the power control in physical layer and the control frame called CoTS in MAC layer, ESCDD chooses a single cooperative node to perform cooperative transmission. The receiving node adopts maximal ratio combining (MRC) to recover original data. The energy consumption per hop is reduced. Furthermore, the total energy consumption in data collection process is shared by more nodes and the network lifetime is extended. Compared with GeRaF, EERNFS, and REEFG protocol, the simulation results show that ESCDD can effectively reduce the average delay of multihop data transmission, improve the successful delivery rate of data packets, significantly save the energy consumption of network nodes, and make the energy consumption more balanced.
Characterisation ofDrosophila UbxCPTI000601andhthCPTI000378Protein Trap Lines
Authors: Choo Siew Woh , Beh Ching Yew , Russell Steven , White Robert
Published: October 2014

InDrosophila, protein trap strategies provide powerful approaches for the generation of tagged proteins expressed under endogenous control. Here, we describe expression and functional analysis to evaluate newUbxandhthprotein trap lines generated by the Cambridge Protein Trap project. Both protein traps exhibit spatial and temporal expression patterns consistent with the reported endogenous pattern in the embryo. In imaginal discs, Ubx-YFP is expressed throughout the haltere and 3rd leg imaginal discs, while Hth-YFP is expressed in the proximal regions of haltere and wing discs but not in the pouch region. TheUbxCPTI000601line is semilethal as a homozygote. No T3/A1 to T2 transformations were observed in the embryonic cuticle or the developing midgut. The homozygous survivors, however, exhibit a weak haltere phenotype with a few wing-like marginal bristles on the haltere capitellum. AlthoughhthCPTI000378is completely lethal as a homozygote, thehthCPTI000378/hthC1genotype is viable. Using a hth deletion(Df(3R)BSC479)we show thaththCPTI000378/Df(3R)BSC479adults are phenotypically normal. No transformations were observed inhthCPTI000378,hthCPTI000378/hthC1, orhthCPTI000378/Df(3R)BSC479embryonic cuticles. We have successfully characterised the Ubx-YFP and Hth-YFP protein trap lines demonstrating that the tagged proteins show appropriate expression patterns and produce at least partially functional proteins.
Prediabetes Is Associated withHNF-4αP2 Promoter Polymorphism rs1884613: A Case-Control Study in Han Chinese Population and an Updated Meta-Analysis
Authors: Wang Changyi , Chen Sihan , Zhang Tao , Chen Zhongwei , Liu Shengyuan , Peng Xiaolin , Ma Jianping , Zhong Xiaohong , Yan Yanqiong , Tang Linlin , Mai Yifeng , Han Liyuan , Duan Shiwei
Published: October 2014

Background. Controversy remains for the association between hepatocyte nuclear factor4α(HNF-4α) P2 promoter polymorphism rs1884613 and type 2 diabetes (T2D). There was no association test of this polymorphism with prediabetes and T2D in the Chinese population. Moreover, an updated meta-analysis in various ethnic groups is needed to establish the contribution of rs1884613 to T2D risk.Methods. Using the Sequenom MassARRAY platform approach, we genotyped rs1884613 ofHNF-4αin the P2 promoter region among 490 T2D patients, 471 individuals with prediabetes, and 575 healthy controls. All the individuals were recruited from 16 community health service centers in Nanshan district in Shenzhen province. Using STATA 11.0 software, meta-analysis was performed to summarize the overall contribution of rs1884613 to T2D risk.Results. Polymorphism rs1884613 was associated with genetic susceptibility to prediabetes in the whole samples (OR = 1.40, 95% CI = 1.16–1.68,P=0.0001) and the female subgrouped samples (OR = 1.48, 95% CI = 1.14–1.92,P=0.003) after adjusting for age and body mass index (BMI). In contrast, there was no association of rs1884613 with T2D in the whole samples and male in our case-control study and meta-analysis.Conclusions. Our results suggest that rs1884613 contributes to susceptibility to prediabetes, whereas this polymorphism may not play an important role in the development of T2D.
Impairment of Hepatic and Renal Functions by 2,5-Hexanedione Is Accompanied by Oxidative Stress in Rats
Authors: Adedara Isaac A. , Abolaji Amos O. , Odion Blessing E. , Okwudi Isioma J. , Omoloja Abiola A. , Farombi Ebenezer O.
Published: October 2014

2,5-Hexanedione (2,5-HD) is the toxic metabolite of n-hexane which is widely used as solvent in numerous industries. The present study elucidated the precise mechanism of 2,5-HD in hepatorenal toxicity by determining the involvement of oxidative stress in rats. Adult male Wistar rats were exposed to 0, 0.25, 0.5, and 1% 2,5-HD in drinking water for 21 days. Exposure to 2,5-HD caused liver and kidney atrophy evidenced by significant elevation in serum aminotransferases, alkaline phosphatase, albumin, bilirubin, urea, creatinine, and electrolytes levels compared with control. The marked dose-dependent increase in total cholesterol (TC), triglyceride (TG), and low-density lipoprotein (LDL) was accompanied with significant decrease in high-density lipoprotein (HDL) levels in 2,5-HD-exposed animals when compared with the control. Administration of 2,5-HD significantly diminished glutathione (GSH) level but increased the activities of superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase, glutathione peroxidase (GPx), and glutathione-S-transferase (GST) concomitantly with marked elevation in hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) and malondialdehyde (MDA) levels in liver and kidney of the treated groups compared with control. These findings suggest that undue exposure to 2,5-HD at environmentally relevant levels may impair liver and kidney functions through induction of oxidative stress.
Synthesis and Antioxidant Evaluation of Enantiomerically Pure Bis-(1,2,3-triazolylmethyl)amino Esters from Modifiedα-Amino Acids
Authors: Sarmiento-Sánchez Juan I. , Ochoa-Terán Adrián , Rivero Ignacio A.
Published: October 2014

The efforts for synthesis of enantiomerically pure bis-(1,2,3-triazolylmethyl)amino esters6are reported in good yields from anin situgeneratedα-azidomethyl ketone. Optimum experimental conditions were established for preparation ofα-halomethyl ketones10andα-N,N-dipropargylamino esters11, all derived fromα-amino acids. The starting materials reacted under conventional click chemistry conditions, revealing a specific reactivity of bromomethyl ketones over chloromethyl ketones. The antioxidant activity of compounds6was assayed by DPPH method. The compound6cwith an IC50of 75.57 ± 1.74 μg mL−1was the most active. Technically, this methodology allows the preparation of a combinatorial library of analogues with different structural characteristics depending on the nature of the modifiedα-amino acids employed in the synthesis.
A Predictor-Corrector Method for Solving Equilibrium Problems
Authors: Bao Zong-Ke , Huang Ming , Xia Xi-Qiang
Published: October 2014

We suggest and analyze a predictor-corrector method for solving nonsmooth convex equilibrium problems based on the auxiliary problem principle. In the main algorithm each stage of computation requires two proximal steps. One step serves to predict the next point; the other helps to correct the new prediction. At the same time, we present convergence analysis under perfect foresight and imperfect one. In particular, we introduce a stopping criterion which gives rise toΔ-stationary points. Moreover, we apply this algorithm for solving the particular case: variational inequalities.
An Overview of Serious Games
Authors: Laamarti Fedwa , Eid Mohamad , El Saddik Abdulmotaleb
Published: October 2014

Serious games are growing rapidly as a gaming industry as well as a field of academic research. There are many surveys in the field of digital serious games; however, most surveys are specific to a particular area such as education or health. So far, there has been little work done to survey digital serious games in general, which is the main goal of this paper. Hence, we discuss relevant work on serious games in different application areas including education, well-being, advertisement, cultural heritage, interpersonal communication, and health care. We also propose a taxonomy for digital serious games, and we suggest a classification of reviewed serious games applications from the literature against the defined taxonomy. Finally, the paper provides guidelines, drawn from the literature, for the design and development of successful serious games, as well as discussing research perspectives in this domain.
A Comparison of Intralesional Triamcinolone Acetonide Injection for Primary Chalazion in Children and Adults
Authors: Lee Jacky W. Y. , Yau Gordon S. K. , Wong Michelle Y. Y. , Yuen Can Y. F.
Published: October 2014

Purpose.To investigate outcome differences of intralesional triamcinolone acetonide (TA) injection for primary chalazia in children versus adults.Methods. A retrospective review of consecutive subjects with primary chalazion who received intralesional TA injection was conducted. A single investigator injected 0.05–0.15 mL of TA (40 mg/mL) intralesionally. Patients were stratified into the pediatric (<18 years old) and adult (≥18 years old) group. In both groups, the correlation of resolution time with chalazion size and TA dose was performed.Results. 17 children and 24 adults were enrolled, with a mean age of7.4±5.5and39.3±16.7years, respectively. Both groups had statistically similar baseline characteristics. There was no significant difference between the resolution time in the pediatric (18.2±11.4days) and adult (16.5±11.0days) group (P=0.7). There were no significant complications from the TA injection. There was no significant correlation of resolution time to chalazion size (P=0.7) nor TA dose (P=0.3) in both groups.Conclusion. TA for the treatment of primary chalazion was equally effective in children and adults, without any significant complications, and the rate of clinical response did not appear to be dose-dependent.
Estimation of Congestion in Free Disposal Hull Models Using Data Envelopment Analysis
Authors: Abbasi M. , Jahanshahloo G. R. , Rostamy-Malkhlifeh M. , Hosseinzadeh Lotfi F.
Published: October 2014

This paper deals with evaluating congestion in free disposal hull (FDH) models. There are several approaches in data envelopment analysis (DEA) literatures which discuss the theory and application of congestion. However, almost all of these approaches considered convex DEA technologies. So, in the case of nonconvex technologies, including FDH technology, this field is almost nil. This paper makes an attempt to fill in this void. To do so, this study provides a pairwise comparisons-based algorithm to evaluate congestion in FDH model. This algorithm identifies the sources of congestion and estimates its amounts. It is also capable of detecting the losses amounts of output due to congestion. The validity of the proposed model is demonstrated using some numerical and empirical examples.
Marcinkiewicz Integral Operators and Commutators on Herz Spaces with Variable Exponents
Authors: Wang Liwei
Published: October 2014

Our aim in this paper is to give the boundedness of the Marcinkiewicz integralμΩon Herz spacesK˙p(·)α(·),q(Rn)andKp(·)α(·),q(Rn), where the two main indices are variable. Meanwhile, we consider the boundedness of the higher order commutatorμΩ,bmgenerated byμΩand a functionbin BMO(Rn)on these spaces.
Global Stability of an Epidemic Model of Computer Virus
Authors: Yang Xiaofan , Liu Bei , Gan Chenquan
Published: October 2014

With the rapid popularization of the Internet, computers can enter or leave the Internet increasingly frequently. In fact, no antivirus software can detect and remove all sorts of computer viruses. This implies that viruses would persist on the Internet. To better understand the spread of computer viruses in these situations, a new propagation model is established and analyzed. The unique equilibrium of the model is globally asymptotically stable, in accordance with the reality. A parameter analysis of the equilibrium is also conducted.
Examining the Relationship between Cardiorespiratory Fitness and Body Weight Status: Empirical Evidence from a Population-Based Survey of Adults in Taiwan
Authors: Hung Tai-Hsiung , Liao Pei-An , Chang Hung-Hao , Wang Jiun-Hao , Wu Min-Chen
Published: October 2014

Background. Cardiovascular disease is the number one cause of death worldwide. Meanwhile, obesity has been recognized as a global epidemic. This study aims to examine the extent to which cardiorespiratory fitness is associated with body mass among adult males and females in Taiwan.Materials and Methods. A nationally representative dataset consisting of 68,175 adults aged 18–60, including 31,743 males and 36,432 females, was used. Several multivariate regression models were used to investigate the relationship between cardiorespiratory fitness and body weight status, after controlling for adults’ sociodemographic status.Results. A one-unit increase in the BMI lowered the cardiorespiratory fitness score by 0.316 and 0.368 points for adult males and females, respectively. Among adult males, compared to those of normal weight, adult males who were underweight, overweight, or obese had a lower cardiorespiratory fitness score by 1.287, 0.845, and 3.353 points, respectively. Similar results could be found in female samples.Conclusion. The overweight and obese adults had much lower levels of cardiorespiratory fitness as compared to their normal weight counterparts. Given the upward trend in the prevalence of overweight and obesity, it is important to help overweight and obese people to become more fit and reach their healthy weight.
Speckle-Tracking and Tissue-Doppler Stress Echocardiography in Arterial Hypertension: A Sensitive Tool for Detection of Subclinical LV Impairment
Authors: Hensel Kai O. , Jenke Andreas , Leischik Roman
Published: October 2014

Early diagnosis of cardiac alterations in hypertensive heart disease is still challenging. Since such patients might have depressed global LV systolic strain or strain rate when EF is still normal, speckle-tracking echocardiography (STE) and tissue-Doppler imaging (TDI) combined with stress echocardiography might improve early diagnosis of cardiac alterations. In this prospective study standard 2D Doppler echocardiography, STE, and TDI were performed at rest and during bicycle exercise in 92 consecutive patients—46 hypertensive subjects with normal ejection fraction and 46 healthy controls. STE and TDI were used to measure global peak systolic LV circumferential strain (CS), longitudinal strain (LS), and longitudinal strain rate (SR). Mean arterial blood pressure was significantly higher in hypertensive patients at rest (100.8 mmHg SD 13.5 mmHg;P=0.002) and during physical exercise testing (124.2 mmHg SD 13.4 mmHg;P=0.003). Hypertensive patients had significantly reduced values of systolic CS (P=0.001), LS (P=0.014), and SR (P<0.001) at rest as well as during physical exercise—CS (P<0.001), LS (P<0.001), and SR (P<0.001). Using STE and TDI, reduced LV systolic strain and strain rate consistent with early cardiac alterations can be detected in patients with arterial hypertension. These findings were evident at rest and markedly pronounced during exercise echocardiography.
Preparation of Flame Retardant Modified with Titanate for Asphalt Binder
Authors: Li Bo , Liu Jianxun , Han Feng , Li Xiaoling , Li Liangying , Li Yanbo , Duan Xiaofeng
Published: October 2014

Improving the compatibility between flame retardant and asphalt is a difficult task due to the complex nature of the materials. This study explores a low dosage compound flame retardant and seeks to improve the compatibility between flame retardants and asphalt. An orthogonal experiment was designed taking magnesium hydroxide, ammonium polyphosphate, and melamine as factors. The oil absorption and activation index were tested to determine the effect of titanate on the flame retardant additive. The pavement performance test was conducted to evaluate the effect of the flame retardant additive. Oxygen index test was conducted to confirm the effect of flame retardant on flame ability of asphalt binder. The results of this study showed that the new composite flame retardant is more effective in improving the compatibility between flame retardant and asphalt and reducing the limiting oxygen index of asphalt binder tested in this study.
Experimental Study of Ultralight (<300 kg/m3) Foamed Concrete
Authors: Tan Xianjun , Chen Weizhong , Hao Yingge , Wang Xu
Published: October 2014

A type of ultralight (<300 kg/m3) foamed concrete (FC), which can be used as a new energy-conservation and environmental-protection building material and is particularly suitable for the thermal-insulation engineering of building external walls, was produced. The influences of different mixing amounts of fly ash, fly ash activator, WC (WC) ratio, and foaming agent (FA) on the compressive strength of FC were reported. The experimental study indicated that (1) the addition of fly ash reduced the strength of the FC and that the appropriate mixing amount of fly ash in this ultralight FC system should not exceed 45%; (2) with the increasing of fly ash activator, the strength of the FC sample is notably enhanced and the appropriate mixing amount of fly ash activator is 2.5%; (3) the optimized proportion of WC ratio is 0.45, and the FC that was produced according to this proportion has relatively high compressive strength; (4) by increasing the mixing amount of FA, the compressive strength of the FC notably decreases, and the optimal mixing amount of FA in this experiment is 3.5%.
Barriers to and Suggestions on Improving Utilization of Eye Care in High-Risk Individuals: Focus Group Results
Authors: Elam Angela R. , Lee Paul P.
Published: October 2014

Purpose. To understand barriers facing high-risk individuals and to solicit the suggestions of these individuals, especially nonusers, on how to change the eye care delivery system to better meet their needs. Methods. Four focus groups were conducted. All discussion was audiotaped and transcribed. Content analysis was performed by the authors and with the assistance of qualitative software, NUD*IST Vivo. Results. The most frequently cited barriers include (1) cost, (2) trust, (3) communication, (4) clinic accessibility (transportation/distance), and (5) doctor-patient relationship. In underutilizers, trust was the most identified barrier to care. Suggestions on increasing educational opportunities/awareness of eye care and addressing cost and insurance issues as a means of improving trust and communications were most frequently offered, including using the Department of Social Services as a focal point for eye care education and assessment. Discussion. Trust is a major barrier to eye care, especially among underutilizers of disadvantaged populations. Increasing trust and eye care education at the community and individual levels is essential to increasing eye care utilization.
Conditional Stochastic Simulations of Flow and Transport with Karhunen-Loève Expansions, Stochastic Collocation, and Sequential Gaussian Simulation
Authors: Ossiander Mina E. , Peszynska Malgorzata , Vasylkivska Veronika S.
Published: October 2014

We derive a new method of conditional Karhunen-Loève (KL) expansions for stochastic coefficients in models of flow and transport in the subsurface, and in particular for the heterogeneous random permeability field. Exact values of this field are never known, and thus one must evaluate uncertainty of solutions to the flow and transport models. This is typically done by constructing independent realizations of the permeability field followed by numerical simulations of flow and transport for each realization and assembling statistical estimates of moments of desired quantities of interest. We follow the well-known framework of KL expansions and derive a new method that incorporates known values of the permeability at given locations so that the realizations of the permeability field honor this data exactly. Our method relies on projections to an appropriate subspace of random weights applied to the eigenfunctions of the covariance operator. We use the permeability realizations constructed with our stochastic simulation method in simulations of flow and transport and compare the results to those obtained when realizations are constructed with sequential Gaussian simulation (SGS). We also compare efficiency and stochastic convergence with that of stochastic collocation.
Effect of Aerogel Particle Concentration on Mechanical Behavior of Impregnated RTV 655 Compound Material for Aerospace Applications
Authors: Sabri Firouzeh , Marchetta Jeffrey G. , Faysal K. M. Rifat , Brock Andrew , Roan Esra
Published: October 2014

Aerogels are a unique class of materials with superior thermal and mechanical properties particularly suitable for insulating and cryogenic storage applications. It is possible to overcome geometrical restrictions imposed by the rigidity of monolithic polyurea cross-linked silica aerogels by encapsulating micrometer-sized particles in a chemically resistant thermally insulating elastomeric “sleeve.” The ultimate limiting factor for the compound material’s performance is the effect of aerogel particles on the mechanical behavior of the compound material which needs to be fully characterized. The effect of size and concentration of aerogel microparticles on the tensile behavior of aerogel impregnated RTV655 samples was explored both at room temperature and at 77 K. Aerogel microparticles were created using a step-pulse pulverizing technique resulting in particle diameters between 425 μm and 90 μm and subsequently embedded in an RTV 655 elastomeric matrix. Aerogel particle concentrations of 25, 50, and 75 wt% were subjected to tensile tests and behavior of the compound material was investigated. Room temperature and cryogenic temperature studies revealed a compound material with rupture load values dependent on (1) microparticle size and (2) microparticle concentration. Results presented show how the stress elongation behavior depends on each parameter.
Mathematics and Numeracy as Social and Spatial Practice
Authors: Ares Nancy , Evans Dawn M.
Published: October 2014

This study of networked classroom activity proposes that a resource-rich point of view is powerful in increasing the engagement of marginalized students in mathematics classes. Our work brings attention to the values, beliefs, and power relations that infuse numeracy practices and adds attention to mathematical dimensions of social spaces. Findings show that the multiple modes available to communicate mathematically, to contribute, and the inquiry-oriented discussions invited students to draw on a variety of expressive modes to engage with complex mathematical concepts. Spatial analyses illuminate the relations among reproduction and production of knowledge, as well as the social space that characterized the networked classroom activity. They also reveal the affordance of emergent, transformed social spaces for youth’s use of a variety of social and cultural displays in producing mathematical knowledge. Students extended notions about social space by adding attention to affective features of classroom and school activities.
Design of a UHF Antenna for Partial Discharge Detection of Power Equipment
Authors: Wang Youyuan , Wu Junfeng , Chen Weigen , Wang Yajun
Published: October 2014

A single-arm Archimedean spiral antenna that can be directly fed by a 50 Ωcoaxial cable is investigated in this study. Every antenna parameter is optimized under simulation to make the antenna work in the ultra-high frequency band. The influence of dielectric materials, feed cone angle, and antenna duty ratio is also examined. Partial discharge (PD) experiments on several typical artificial insulation defects are conducted, and a single-arm Archimedean spiral antenna and a typical microstrip antenna are utilized for PD measurement. The PD characteristics of different insulation defects are also analyzed. Results show that the designed antenna is suitable for ultra-high frequency monitoring. The detection sensitivity of the single-arm spiral antenna is superior to that of the ordinary microstrip antenna. The former can be utilized in wide-band measurement fields.
Separation and Recovery of Fine Particles from Waste Circuit Boards Using an Inflatable Tapered Diameter Separation Bed
Authors: Duan Chenlong , Sheng Cheng , Wu Lingling , Zhao Yuemin , He Jinfeng , Zhou Enhui
Published: October 2014

Recovering particle materials from discarded printed circuit boards can enhance resource recycling and reduce environmental pollution. Efficiently physically separating and recovering fine metal particles (−0.5 mm) from the circuit boards are a key recycling challenge. To do this, a new type of separator, an inflatable tapered diameter separation bed, was developed to study particle motion and separation mechanisms in the bed’s fluid flow field. For 0.5–0.25 mm circuit board particles, metal recovery rates ranged from 87.56 to 94.17%, and separation efficiencies ranged from 87.71 to 94.20%. For 0.25–0.125 mm particles, metal recovery rates ranged from 84.76 to 91.97%, and separation efficiencies ranged from 84.74 to 91.86%. For superfine products (−0.125 mm), metal recovery rates ranged from 73.11 to 83.04%, and separation efficiencies ranged from 73.00 to 83.14%. This research showed that the inflatable tapered diameter separation bed achieved efficient particle separation and can be used to recover fine particles under a wide range of operational conditions. The bed offers a new mechanical technology to recycle valuable materials from discarded printed circuit boards, reducing environmental pollution.
Oxidative Status Imbalance in Patients with Metabolic Syndrome: Role of the Myeloperoxidase/Hydrogen Peroxide Axis
Authors: Fonseca Lucas José Sá da , Nunes-Souza Valéria , Guedes Glaucevane da Silva , Schettino-Silva Glauber , Mota-Gomes Marco Antônio , Rabelo Luíza Antas
Published: October 2014

The present study evaluated the cardiometabolic and redox balance profiles in patients with Metabolic Syndrome compared to apparently healthy individuals, and the participation of the myeloperoxidase/hydrogen peroxide axis in systemic lipid peroxidation. Twenty-four patients with Metabolic Syndrome and eighteen controls underwent a full clinical assessment. Venous blood samples were collected for general biochemical dosages, as well as for the oxidative stress analyses (superoxide dismutase, catalase, and arginase activities; and lipid peroxidation, myeloperoxidase activity, nitrite, and hydrogen peroxide concentrations in plasma). Arterial stiffness was assessed by radial artery applanation tonometry. Plasma lipid peroxidation, erythrocyte superoxide dismutase activity, myeloperoxidase activity, and hydrogen peroxide concentrations were shown to be increased in Metabolic Syndrome patients, without significant differences for the other enzymes, plasma nitrite concentrations, and arterial stiffness. Linear regression analysis revealed a positive and significant correlation between lipid peroxidation and myeloperoxidase and also between this enzyme and hydrogen peroxide. In contrast, such correlation was not observed between lipid peroxidation and hydrogen peroxide. In summary, Metabolic Syndrome patients exhibited evident systemic redox imbalance compared to controls, with the possible participation of the myeloperoxidase/hydrogen peroxide axis as a contributor in lipid peroxidation.
Some Properties of Distances and Best Proximity Points of Cyclic Proximal Contractions in Metric Spaces
Authors: De La Sen M. , Ibeas Asier
Published: October 2014

This paper presents some results concerning the properties of distances and existence and uniqueness of best proximity points ofp-cyclic proximal, weak proximal contractions, and some of their generalizations for the non-self-mappingT:⋃i∈p-Ai→⋃i∈p-Bi  (p≥2), whereAiandBi,∀i∈p-={1,2,…,p}, are nonempty subsets ofXwhich satisfyTAi⊆Bi,∀i∈p-, such that(X,d)is a metric space. The boundedness and the convergence of the sequences of distances in the domains and in their respective image sets of the cyclic proximal and weak cyclic proximal non-self-mapping, and of some of their generalizations are investigated. The existence and uniqueness of the best proximity points and the properties of convergence of the iterates to such points are also addressed.
Rheology of Indian Honey: Effect of Temperature and Gamma Radiation
Authors: Saxena Sudhanshu , Panicker Lata , Gautam Satyendra
Published: October 2014

Honey brands commonly available in Indian market were characterized for their rheological and thermal properties. Viscosity of all the honey samples belonging to different commercial brands was found to decrease with increase in temperature (5–40°C) and their sensitivity towards temperature varied significantly as explained by calculating activation energy based on Arrhenius model and ranged from 54.0 to 89.0 kJ/mol. However, shear rate was not found to alter the viscosity of honey indicating their Newtonian character and the shear stress varied linearly with shear rate for all honey samples. Honey is known to contain pathogenic microbial spores and in our earlier study gamma radiation was found to be effective in achieving microbial decontamination of honey. The effect of gamma radiation (5–15 kGy) on rheological properties of honey was assessed, and it was found to remain unchanged upon radiation treatment. The glass transition temperatures (Tg) of these honey analyzed by differential scanning calorimetry varied from −44.1 to −54.1°C and remained unchanged upon gamma radiation treatment. The results provide information about some key physical properties of commercial Indian honey. Radiation treatment which is useful for ensuring microbial safety of honey does not alter these properties.
PANI‐Ag‐Cu Nanocomposite Thin Films Based Impedimetric Microbial Sensor for Detection of E. coli Bacteria
Authors: Abdullah Huda , Mohammad Naim Norshafadzila , Noor Azmy Noor Azwen , Abdul Hamid Aidil
Published: October 2014

PANI‐Ag‐Cu nanocomposite thin films were prepared by sol‐gel method and deposited on the glass substrate using spin coating technique. Polyaniline was synthesized by chemical oxidative polymerization of aniline monomer in the presence of nitric acid. The films were characterized using XRD, FTIR, and UV‐Visible spectroscopy. The performance of the sensor was conducted using electrochemical impedance spectroscopy to obtain the change in impedance of the sensor film before and after incubation with E. coli bacteria in water. The peaks in XRD pattern confirm the presence of Ag and Cu nanoparticles in face‐centered cubic structure. FTIR analysis shows the stretching of N–H in the polyaniline structure. The absorption band from UV‐Visible spectroscopy shows high peaks between 400 nm and 500 nm which indicate the presence of Ag and Cu nanoparticles, respectively. Impedance analysis indicates that the change in impedance of the films decreases with the presence of E. coli. The sensitivity on E. coli increases for the sample with high concentration of Cu.
The Effect of Row Structure on Soil Moisture Retrieval Accuracy from Passive Microwave Data
Authors: Xingming Zheng , Kai Zhao , Yangyang Li , Jianhua Ren , Yanling Ding
Published: October 2014

Row structure causes the anisotropy of microwave brightness temperature (TB) of soil surface, and it also can affect soil moisture retrieval accuracy when its influence is ignored in the inversion model. To study the effect of typical row structure on the retrieved soil moisture and evaluate if there is a need to introduce this effect into the inversion model, two ground-based experiments were carried out in 2011. Based on the observed C-band TB, field soil and vegetation parameters, row structure rough surface assumption (Qpmodel and discrete model), including the effect of row structure, and flat rough surface assumption (Qpmodel), ignoring the effect of row structure, are used to model microwave TB of soil surface. Then, soil moisture can be retrieved, respectively, by minimizing the difference of the measured and modeled TB. The results show that soil moisture retrieval accuracy based on the row structure rough surface assumption is approximately 0.02 cm3/cm3better than the flat rough surface assumption for vegetated soil, as well as 0.015 cm3/cm3better for bare and wet soil. This result indicates that the effect of row structure cannot be ignored for accurately retrieving soil moisture of farmland surface when C-band is used.
MicroRNA Classifier and Nomogram for Metastasis Prediction in Colon Cancer
Authors: Goossens-Beumer Inès J. , Derr Remco S. , Buermans Henk P.J. , Goeman Jelle J. , Böhringer Stefan , Morreau Hans , Nitsche Ulrich , Janssen Klaus-Peter , van de Velde Cornelis J.H. , Kuppen Peter J.K.
Published: October 2014

Background: Colon cancer prognosis and treatment are currently based on a classification system still showing large heterogeneity in clinical outcome, especially in TNM stages II and III. Prognostic biomarkers for metastasis risk are warranted as development of distant recurrent disease mainly accounts for the high lethality rates of colon cancer. miRNAs have been proposed as potential biomarkers for cancer. Furthermore, a verified standard for normalization of the amount of input material in PCR-based relative quantification of miRNA expression is lacking.

Methods: A selection of frozen tumor specimens from two independent patient cohorts with TNM stage II–III microsatellite stable primary adenocarcinomas was used for laser capture microdissection. Next-generation sequencing was performed on small RNAs isolated from colorectal tumors from the Dutch cohort (N = 50). Differential expression analysis, comparing in metastasized and nonmetastasized tumors, identified prognostic miRNAs. Validation was performed on colon tumors from the German cohort (N = 43) using quantitative PCR (qPCR).

Results: miR25-3p and miR339-5p were identified and validated as independent prognostic markers and used to construct a multivariate nomogram for metastasis risk prediction. The nomogram showed good probability prediction in validation. In addition, we recommend combination of miR16-5p and miR26a-5p as standard for normalization in qPCR of colon cancer tissue–derived miRNA expression.

Conclusions: In this international study, we identified and validated a miRNA classifier in primary cancers, and propose a nomogram capable of predicting metastasis risk in microsatellite stable TNM stage II–III colon cancer.

Impact: In conjunction with TNM staging, by means of a nomogram, this miRNA classifier may allow for personalized treatment decisions based on individual tumor characteristics. Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev; 24(1); 187–97. ©2014 AACR.
Dual mTORC1/2 Blockade Inhibits Glioblastoma Brain Tumor Initiating Cells In Vitro and In Vivo and Synergizes with Temozolomide to Increase Orthotopic Xenograft Survival
Authors: Luchman H. Artee , Stechishin Owen D.M. , Nguyen Stephanie A. , Lun Xueqing Q. , Cairncross J. Gregory , Weiss Samuel
Published: October 2014

Purpose: The EGFR and PI3K/mTORC1/2 pathways are frequently altered in glioblastoma (GBM), but pharmacologic targeting of EGFR and PI3K signaling has failed to demonstrate efficacy in clinical trials. Lack of relevant models has rendered it difficult to assess whether targeting these pathways might be effective in molecularly defined subgroups of GBMs. Here, human brain tumor–initiating cell (BTIC) lines with different combinations of endogenous EGFR wild-type, EGFRvIII, and PTEN mutations were used to investigate response to the EGFR inhibitor gefitinib, mTORC1 inhibitor rapamycin, and dual mTORC1/2 inhibitor AZD8055 alone and in combination with temozolomide (TMZ)

Experimental Design: In vitro growth inhibition and cell death induced by gefitinib, rapamycin, AZD8055, and TMZ or combinations in human BTICs were assessed by alamarBlue, neurosphere, and Western blotting assays. The in vivo efficacy of AZD8055 was assessed in subcutaneous and intracranial BTIC xenografts. Kaplan–Meier survival studies were performed with AZD8055 and in combination with TMZ.

Results: We confirm that gefitinib and rapamycin have modest effects in most BTIC lines, but AZD8055 was highly effective at inhibiting Akt/mTORC2 activity and dramatically reduced the viability of BTICs regardless of their EGFR and PTEN mutational status. Systemic administration of AZD8055 effectively inhibited tumor growth in subcutaneous BTIC xenografts and mTORC1/2 signaling in orthotopic BTIC xenografts. AZD8055 was synergistic with the alkylating agent TMZ and significantly prolonged animal survival.

Conclusion: These data suggest that dual inhibition of mTORC1/2 may be of benefit in GBM, including the subset of TMZ-resistant GBMs. Clin Cancer Res; 20(22); 5756–67. ©2014 AACR.
Plasma Levels of Heat Shock Protein 90 Alpha Associated with Lung Cancer Development and Treatment Responses
Authors: Shi Yuankai , Liu Xiaoqing , Lou Jiatao , Han Xiaohong , Zhang Lijian , Wang Qingtao , Li Baolan , Dong Mei , Zhang Yinghong
Published: October 2014

Purpose: Altered expression of heat shock protein 90 alpha (Hsp90α) was associated with tumor development, progression, and metastasis. This study explored plasma levels of Hsp90α protein in patients with lung cancer and other controls to assess its diagnostic value and monitor treatment responses for patients with lung cancer.

Experimental Design: A total of 2,247 individuals were recruited and assigned into two cohorts as static and dynamic groups. ELISA analysis and confirmation of plasma Hsp90α protein levels for association with tumor stages and treatment responses, respectively, were performed.

Results: The average plasma levels of Hsp90α protein in patients with lung cancer were significantly higher than in healthy controls (P < 0.0001). Plasma levels of Hsp90α protein in patients with advanced lung cancer (stage III–IV) were higher than in patients with early-stage lung cancer (stage I–II; P < 0.001). Using a cutoff value of 56.33 ng/mL to separate lung cancer from other controls, the sensitivity and specificity reached 72.18% (95% CI, 0.695–0.749) and 78.70% (95% CI, 0.761–0.813), respectively. To confirm the different levels in the second cohort, plasma levels of Hsp90α protein showed a statistically significant difference between preoperative and postoperative patients in surgical patient groups (P < 0.007). There was also a statistically significant difference between the disease progressive group and stable disease group, with regard to partial response after chemotherapy (P < 0.0001).

Conclusions: This study demonstrated that plasma Hsp90α protein levels are useful as a diagnostic biomarker in lung cancer and predict the responses of patients with lung cancer to chemotherapy. Clin Cancer Res; 20(23); 6016–22. ©2014 AACR.
Whole-Exome Sequencing of Muscle-Invasive Bladder Cancer Identifies Recurrent Mutations of UNC5C and Prognostic Importance of DNA Repair Gene Mutations on Survival
Authors: Yap Kai Lee , Kiyotani Kazuma , Tamura Kenji , Antic Tatjana , Jang Miran , Montoya Magdeline , Campanile Alexa , Yew Poh Yin , Ganshert Cory , Fujioka Tomoaki , Steinberg Gary D. , O'Donnell Peter H. , Nakamura Yusuke
Published: October 2014

Purpose: Because of suboptimal outcomes in muscle-invasive bladder cancer even with multimodality therapy, determination of potential genetic drivers offers the possibility of improving therapeutic approaches and discovering novel prognostic indicators.

Experimental Design: Using pTN staging, we case-matched 81 patients with resected ≥pT2 bladder cancers for whom perioperative chemotherapy use and disease recurrence status were known. Whole-exome sequencing was conducted in 43 cases to identify recurrent somatic mutations and targeted sequencing of 10 genes selected from the initial screening in an additional 38 cases was completed. Mutational profiles along with clinicopathologic information were correlated with recurrence-free survival (RFS) in the patients.

Results: We identified recurrent novel somatic mutations in the gene UNC5C (9.9%), in addition to TP53 (40.7%), KDM6A (21.0%), and TSC1 (12.3%). Patients who were carriers of somatic mutations in DNA repair genes (one or more of ATM, ERCC2, FANCD2, PALB2, BRCA1, or BRCA2) had a higher overall number of somatic mutations (P = 0.011). Importantly, after a median follow-up of 40.4 months, carriers of somatic mutations (n = 25) in any of these six DNA repair genes had significantly enhanced RFS compared with noncarriers [median, 32.4 vs. 14.8 months; hazard ratio of 0.46, 95% confidence interval (CI), 0.22–0.98; P = 0.0435], after adjustment for pathologic pTN staging and independent of adjuvant chemotherapy usage.

Conclusion: Better prognostic outcomes of individuals carrying somatic mutations in DNA repair genes suggest these mutations as favorable prognostic events in muscle-invasive bladder cancer. Additional mechanistic investigation into the previously undiscovered role of UNC5C in bladder cancer is warranted. Clin Cancer Res; 20(24); 6605–17. ©2014 AACR.