bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Automatic virtual machine configuration for database workloads
Authors: Soror Ahmed A. , Minhas Umar Farooq , Aboulnaga Ashraf , Salem Kenneth , Kokosielis Peter , Kamath Sunil
Published: February 2010

Virtual machine monitors are becoming popular tools for the deployment of database management systems and other enterprise software. In this article, we consider a common resource consolidation scenario in which several database management system instances, each running in a separate virtual machine, are sharing a common pool of physical computing resources. We address the problem of optimizing the performance of these database management systems by controlling the configurations of the virtual machines in which they run. These virtual machine configurations determine how the shared physical resources will be allocated to the different database system instances. We introduce a virtualization design advisor that uses information about the anticipated workloads of each of the database systems to recommend workload-specific configurations offline. Furthermore, runtime information collected after the deployment of the recommended configurations can be used to refine the recommendation and to handle changes in the workload. To estimate the effect of a particular resource allocation on workload performance, we use the query optimizer in a new what-if mode. We have implemented our approach using both PostgreSQL and DB2, and we have experimentally evaluated its effectiveness using DSS and OLTP workloads.
An anisotropic BRDF model for fitting and Monte Carlo rendering
Authors: Kurt Murat , Szirmay-Kalos László , Křivánek Jaroslav
Published: February 2010

In this paper we propose a new physically plausible, anisotropic Bidirectional Reflectance Distribution Function (BRDF) for fitting and for importance sampling in global illumination rendering. We demonstrate that the new model is better in data fitting than existing BRDF models. We also describe efficient schemes for sampling the proposed anisotropic BRDF model. Furthermore, we test it on a GPU-based real-time rendering algorithm and show that material design can be done with this anisotropic BRDF model effectively. We also show that the new model has effective real-time rendering performance.
A Lot‐Size Model for Deteriorating Items under Conditions of a One‐Time Only Extended Credit Period
Authors: Shah Nita H.
Published: February 2010

Now‐a‐days, the offer of credit period to the customer for settling the account for the units purchased by the supplier is considered to be the most beneficial policy. In this article, an attempt is made to formulate the mathematical model for a customer to determine optimal special cycle time when the supplier offers the special extended credit period for one time only during a special period. A decision policy for a retailer is developed to find optimal special cycle time. The theoretical results and effects of various parameters are studied by appropriate dataset.
Existence of Multiple Solutions for a Class of n‐Dimensional Discrete Boundary Value Problems
Authors: Tan Weiming , Zhou Zhan
Published: February 2010

By using critical point theory, we obtain some new results on the existence of multiple solutions for a class of n‐dimensional discrete boundary value problems. Results obtained extend or improve existing ones.
Polymorphisms of 5,10-Methylenetetrahydrofolate Reductase and Cystathionine β-Synthase Genes as a Risk Factor for Neural Tube Defects in Sétif, Algeria
Authors: Houcher Bakhouche , Bourouba Romyla , Djabi Farida , Yilmaz Erkan , Eğin Yonca , Akar Nejat
Published: February 2010

Background: Neural tube defects (NTD) are severe congenital malformations due to a failure in neural tube formation at the beginning of pregnancy. The etiology of NTD is multifactorial, with environmental and genetic determinants. We suggest a study of gene-gene interactions regarding the possible association of NTD with specific mutations of 5,10-methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase (MTHFR) and cystathionine β-synthase (CBS) genes. Patients and Methods: The genetic analysis of the MTHFR C677T polymorphism was performed by real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR) on a Light Cycler, the CBS genotype was analyzed by PCR in a thermal cycler. Ninety-two mothers who had conceived NTD children and 48 fathers were investigated. A group of 147 adults, including 82 apparently healthy women, was used as control. Results: Among control mothers, 35 (43%) were heterozygous for the C677T variant and 14 (17%) were TT homozygous. Among the cases, 25 (52%) out of 48 mothers and 22 (46%) out of 48 fathers carried the T allele; 9 mothers (19%) and 5 fathers (10%) had the TT genotype. A homozygous C677T mutation was not an NTD risk factor in this preliminary study in an Algerian population; a possible gene-gene interaction between the MTHFR C677T polymorphism and the CBS 844ins68 has also been examined in relation to NTD, but no such association has been shown. There was a statistically significant difference between the heterozygosity genotype frequency of CBS polymorphisms in mothers with a previous child with NTD compared with the mother controls (odds ratio: 3.72; 95% CI: 1.59–8.73). Conclusion: Our results with Algerian NTD mothers did not show a significant association for any group, suggesting that the thermolabile variant C677T in the MTHFR gene is not a risk factor for a mother to have NTD offspring; rather, folic acid supplementation or fortification should become mandatory for all women of reproductive age in Algeria.
Intercellular Adhesion Molecule-1 and Interleukin-6 Gene Polymorphisms in Patients with Advanced-Stage Endometriosis
Authors: Chae Soo Jin , Lee Gyoung Hoon , Choi Young Min , Hong Min A , Kim Jong Mee , Lee Kyu Sup , Ku Seung Yup , Moon Shin Yong
Published: February 2010

Background/Aims: The aim of this study was to investigate the possibility that the K469E and G241R polymorphisms in the intercellular adhesion molecule-1 (ICAM-1) gene and the C-634G polymorphism in the interleukin (IL)-6 gene are associated with endometriosis in the Korean population. Methods: The ICAM-1 gene K469E and G241R polymorphisms and the IL-6 gene C-634G polymorphism were evaluated in 390 patients with endometriosis and 351 controls by polymerase chain reaction-restriction fragment length polymorphism analysis. Results: The ICAM-1 gene G241R polymorphism was not observed in all subjects. No differences were observed in the ICAM-1 K469E and IL-6 C-634G genotype distributions and allele frequencies between patients with endometriosis and controls. In subgroup analyses according to the stage of endometriosis or bilaterality of ovarian endometriomas, no significant differences were observed in the ICAM-1 gene K469E or the IL-6 gene C-634G polymorphism frequencies between the subgroups and the controls. The combined analysis of the ICAM-1 gene K469E polymorphism and the IL-6 gene C-634G polymorphism did not show any additional significant findings. Conclusions: The K469E and G241R polymorphisms in the ICAM-1 gene and the C-634G polymorphism in the IL-6 gene may not be genetic factors related to susceptibility to advanced-stage endometriosis in the Korean population.
Incidence and Predictors of Plaque Rupture in the Peripheral Arteries
Authors: Okura Hiroyuki , Asawa Koichiro , Kubo Tomoichiro , Taguchi Haruyuki , Toda Iku , Yoshiyama Minoru , Yoshikawa Junichi , Yoshida Kiyoshi
Published: February 2010

Background—

Plaque rupture may be present in the peripheral arteries of the patients at high risk for cardiovascular events and is possibly associated with vascular vulnerability.

Methods and Results—

One hundred one iliofemoral arteries from 101 patients undergoing angioplasty were studied. Intravascular ultrasound imaging was performed before intervention. Plaque rupture was defined as presence of a cavity that communicated with the lumen with an overlying residual fibrous cap fragment. Incidence, numbers, and location of the plaque rupture were investigated. Plaque rupture was found in 42 of 101 arteries (42%). Patients with plaque rupture had significantly higher prevalence of acute coronary syndrome than did patients without plaque rupture (42% vs 16%,
P
=0.01). By multivariable logistic regression analysis, acute coronary syndrome (
P
=0.004) and male sex (
P
=0.01) were independent clinical correlates of plaque rupture. During follow-up (median, 14.7 months), the incidence of major adverse cardiac or cerebrovascular events (death, myocardial infarction, and ischemic stroke) was similar between the 2 groups. The incidence of major adverse cardiac or cerebrovascular events plus peripheral vascular events (unplanned vascular intervention and amputation) was significantly higher in patients with plaque rupture than in patients without plaque rupture (46% vs 21%,
P
=0.008). By multivariable Cox regression analysis, plaque rupture (hazard ratio=2.80, 95% CI: 1.23 to 6.37,
P
=0.01) and Fontaine stage IV (hazard ratio=3.50, 95% CI: 1.58 to 7.71,
P
=0.002) were independent predictors of major adverse cardiac or cerebrovascular events plus peripheral vascular events.

Conclusions—

Ruptured plaque of the iliofemoral arteries is a common finding. Patients with plaque rupture had a higher prevalence of history of acute coronary syndrome and lower major adverse cardiac or cerebrovascular events plus peripheral vascular event-free survival.
The International Urban Energy Balance Models Comparison Project: First Results from Phase 1
Authors: Grimmond C. S. B. , Blackett M. , Best M. J. , Barlow J. , Baik J-J. , Belcher S. E. , Bohnenstengel S. I. , Calmet I. , Chen F. , Dandou A. , Fortuniak K. , Gouvea M. L. , Hamdi R. , Hendry M. , Kawai T. , Kawamoto Y. , Kondo H. , Krayenhoff E. S. , Lee S-H. , Loridan T. , Martilli A. , Masson V. , Miao S. , Oleson K. , Pigeon G. , Porson A. , Ryu Y-H. , Salamanca F. , Shashua-Bar L. , Steeneveld G-J. , Tombrou M. , Voogt J. , Young D. , Zhang N.
Published: February 2010

A large number of urban surface energy balance models now exist with different assumptions about the important features of the surface and exchange processes that need to be incorporated. To date, no comparison of these models has been conducted; in contrast, models for natural surfaces have been compared extensively as part of the Project for Intercomparison of Land-surface Parameterization Schemes. Here, the methods and first results from an extensive international comparison of 33 models are presented. The aim of the comparison overall is to understand the complexity required to model energy and water exchanges in urban areas. The degree of complexity included in the models is outlined and impacts on model performance are discussed. During the comparison there have been significant developments in the models with resulting improvements in performance (root-mean-square error falling by up to two-thirds). Evaluation is based on a dataset containing net all-wave radiation, sensible heat, and latent heat flux observations for an industrial area in Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada. The aim of the comparison is twofold: to identify those modeling approaches that minimize the errors in the simulated fluxes of the urban energy balance and to determine the degree of model complexity required for accurate simulations. There is evidence that some classes of models perform better for individual fluxes but no model performs best or worst for all fluxes. In general, the simpler models perform as well as the more complex models based on all statistical measures. Generally the schemes have best overall capability to model net all-wave radiation and least capability to model latent heat flux.
Private equity and human resource management: ‘Barbarians at the gate!’ HR’s wake-up call?
Authors: Boselie Paul , Koene Bas
Published: February 2010

A private equity buyout (PEB) constitutes an important organizational event that usually heralds major organizational transformations. As such, the announcement of a possible PEB can be expected to impact the organization and require careful management of the pre-PEB process. This article investigates the role and contribution of human resource management (HRM) during a two-year process of negotiations preceding a PEB. It shows the vulnerability of HR-based change contributions to uncertainty about the future, as uncertainty accentuates the ambiguity inherent in HRM based change. Furthermore, it highlights the importance of the role of top-management and the possibilities for HRM during the period leading up to a PEB.
Assessing the impact of private equity on industrial relations in Europe
Authors: Bacon Nick , Wright Mike , Scholes Louise , Meuleman Miguel
Published: February 2010

Private equity firms are accused by trade unions of changing industrial relations in buyouts by demonstrating an unwillingness to recognize and work with trade unions, and by downgrading information and consultation. To explore these important policy issues, this article reports the first representative pan-European survey of managers’ perceptions of the impact of private equity on industrial relations. Managers report that private equity investment does not result in changes to union recognition, membership density or changes in management attitudes to trade union membership. Furthermore, managers in firms recognizing unions after private equity buyouts do not report reductions in the terms and conditions subject to joint regulation. Under private equity ownership more firms report consultative committees, managers regard these as more influential on their decisions, and indicate increased consultation over firm performance and future plans. Comparing industrial relations changes in different social models in Europe, the results suggest private equity firms adapt to national systems and traditional national industrial relations differences persist after buyout.
Private equity and human resource management: An emerging agenda
Authors: Wood Geoffrey , Wright Mike
Published: February 2010

In this article we define and explain private equity, with particular emphasis on the heterogeneity of the phenomenon. We consider different theoretical perspectives of relevance to the study of private equity buyouts. In particular, we distinguish between approaches that take a zero-sum perspective (rational choice and financialization perspectives) and those with a more nuanced, complementary viewpoint (heterodox institutional and theories of action and structure perspectives). We discuss private equity in historical perspective. We then summarize the articles in this special section. Finally, we identify an agenda for further research that focuses upon employee relations and human resource aspects of private equity buyouts.
Effects of Formulation Design on Thermal Properties of Wood/Thermoplastic Composites
Authors: Kaboorani Alireza
Published: February 2010

In this study, thermal properties of wood/HDPE composites were measured by thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) and differential scanning calorimetry (DSC). The composites comprised of different wood (45%, 55%, and 65%) and maleic anhydride grafted polypropylene (MAPP) contents (0%, 1.5%, and 3%), and particle size (20, 40, and 80 mesh) were produced by extrusion method. TGA measurements showed that wood content is the most important factor affecting the thermal stability, initial mass loss, and ash content of the composites. Any increase in wood content led to increase in ash content and less thermally stable composites. MAPP and particle size were found to have less impact on thermal stability. By retarding the formation of charcoal MAPP influenced thermal stability of composites adversely in composites consisting of bigger particle. Composites made of 65% wood content with 20 mesh size and 0% MAPP were more thermally stable than composites made of 65% wood content with 80 mesh size and 3% MAPP, in the temperature range of 270-500°C. Melting point measurements by DSC showed that melting point had no relationship with wood and MAPP contents, and particle size.
How and when armed conflicts end: Introducing the UCDP Conflict Termination dataset
Authors: Kreutz Joakim
Published: February 2010

This article presents new data on the start and end dates and the means of termination for armed conflicts, 1946—2005. These data contribute to quantitative research on conflict resolution and recurrence in three important respects: the data cover both interstate and intrastate armed conflicts, the data cover low-intensity conflicts, and the data provide information on a broad range of termination outcomes. In order to disaggregate the UCDP-PRIO Armed Conflict dataset into multiple analytical units, this dataset introduces the concept of conflict episodes, defined as years of continuous use of armed force in a conflict. Using these data, general trends and patterns are presented, showing that conflicts do not exclusively end with decisive outcomes such as victory or peace agreement but more often under unclear circumstances where fighting simply ceases. This pattern is consistent across different types of conflict, as is the finding that victories are more common in conflicts with short duration. The article then examines some factors that have been found to predict civil war recurrence and explores whether using the new dataset produces similar results. This exercise offers a number of interesting new insights and finds that the determinants for civil war recurrence identified in previous research are sensitive to alternate formulations of conflict termination data. The findings suggest that intrastate conflicts are less likely to recur after government victories or after the deployment of peacekeepers. If the previous conflict is fought with rebels aiming for total control over government or if the belligerents mobilized along ethnic lines, the risk of recurrence increases. The discrepancy in findings with previous research indicates the need for further study of conflict resolution and recurrence, for which this dataset will be useful.
Self-assembled Polyion Complex Micelles based on PVP-b-PAMPS and PVP-b-PDMAEMA for Drug Delivery
Authors: Luo Ya-Li , Yuan Jin-Fang , Liu Xue-Jun , Hui Xie  , Gao Qing-Yu
Published: February 2010

The double hydrophilic block copolymer, poly(N-vinylpyrrolidone)-block-poly(2-acrylamido-2-methyl-1-propanesulfonic acid), was synthesized by reversible addition-fragmentation chain transfer RAFT polymerization. Gel permeation chromatography, 1H-NMR, and FTIR were used to determine the structure and composition. In aqueous media, this block copolymer spontaneously forms polyion complex (PIC) micelles with an oppositely charged block copolymer, poly(N-vinylpyrrolidone)-block-poly(N, N-dimethylaminoethyl methacrylate). Dynamic light scattering and transmission electron micrograph showed that the micelles were <200 nm in diameter and had a narrow single distribution. The release profiles of folic acid, incorporated into the micelles, showed remarkable pH responsive behavior. The PIC micelles exhibited good biocompatibility based on MTT assay with human embryonic kidney (HEK293) cells. These PIC micelles have the potential as pH-sensitive carriers for drug delivery.
Naturalistic Inquiry in Theory and Practice
Authors: Athens Lonnie
Published: February 2010

Herbert Blumer sought to develop “naturalistic inquiry” to provide sociologists, especially those who subscribe to the perspective known as “symbolic interactionism,” with an alternative methodology to positivism for them to use in their research. Since Blumer died before he could complete the job, an attempt is made to finish the work that he left undone on the method of naturalistic inquiry along the lines originally envisioned by him. Among other things, more details are provided to help researchers to carry out the two stages of naturalistic inquiry that he identified: “exploration” and “inspection.” A third stage, confirmation, is also added to the method. Although Blumer described naturalistic inquiry only in theory, it is described here both in theory and actual practice, which is essential to make the method more understandable to others. In addition to providing a more complete statement of naturalistic inquiry, the ideas that he drew on to develop the method are revealed. Several myths surrounding the method and the grounded theories that can be potentially developed from using it are also exposed. Finally, the case is made that naturalistic inquiry occupies a relatively unique position in the social sciences.
Improving the Service Delivery
Authors: Khalid Siti-Nabiha Abdul
Published: February 2010

Local councils in Malaysia continue to face criticism and are viewed as inefficient and lacking accountability. They also face pressure to improve their service delivery. As a result, the Malaysian federal government requires public agencies, including local authorities in Malaysia, to use key performance indicators (KPIs) to improve their service delivery.

This article examines the implementation of the system of key performance indicators in a local council in Malaysia. Details of the system of KPIs imposed by the government for the local council are discussed. The article also discusses how, and what indicators are formulated, and the process undertaken by the local council in improving their service delivery system.
Commentary: Using ‘Use’: Pragmatic Consequences of the Metaphor of Culture as Resources
Authors: Cornejo Carlos
Published: February 2010

In this essay I comment on the paper by Gillespie and Zittoun (2009). I argue that the metaphor of culture as a set of resources entails that there be an agent with a certain purpose, whose action converts something into an instrument. In this sense, the metaphor is cryptointentionalist. This arises from the fact that every use of a cultural resource is an action, that is, something done with intention. I also argue that being aware of this intention is part of the basic condition for understanding human action. I analyze the problems of cultural psychology in adopting intentionalist terminology, showing that this rests on the inclusion of a dyadic conception of meaning for a considerable part of the field. In contrast, the adoption of a triadic conception of meaning—e.g., C.S. Peirce’s semiotics—avoids the difficulties of integrating social meaning with personal intentionality. I question Vygotsky’s inherited sign/tool distinction, arguing that it poses a problem for the analysis offered by Gillespie and Zittoun. Finally, I recommend making an explicit connection between phenomenological descriptions of human action and the culture-psychological concepts concerning the internalization of cultural resources.
After the Archive: Remapping Memory
Authors: Brockmeier Jens
Published: February 2010

In this paper I make the case that the notion of memory—the very idea that there is a particular capacity that enables us to remember, to store, and to recall experiences and knowledge, and that in doing so constitutes an essential part of our existence—is in the midst of dissolving. I explore this dissolution of ‘memory’ as an epistemological and cultural paradigm shift. This shift can be observed in a broad spectrum of scientific and scholarly developments and, moreover, in literary, artistic, and public discourses. What all of these have challenged is the idea of memory as storage, an archive. I review four areas of research whose results and debates have fuelled this ‘memory crisis’: the social and cultural, the technological, the literary and the artistic, and the biological and cognitive. At the same time, we find in all these fields emerging perspectives that reach beyond the idea of memory as an archive, offering visions of more open, fleeting, social and cultural practices of remembering and forgetting.
MySpace or Mixi? Japanese engagement with SNS (social networking sites) in the global age
Authors: Takahashi Toshie
Published: February 2010

Much has been written about how social networking sites (SNS) have provided new avenues for self-expression, connectivity and ‘self-creation’ among young people, but few pay due attention to geographical and cultural variations. This article takes up the Japanese case by analysing how its youths engage with SNS, like MySpace and Mixi, within a framework of ‘audience engagement’ that encompasses the multiple dimensions of audience activities. Drawing on an ethnography of Japanese youths living in the media-rich Tokyo Metropolitan Area, this article discusses the following four dimensions of audience engagement: information-seeking activity, connectivity, bricolage and participation. While it is neither all about me in MySpace nor all about us in Mixi, it is suggested that MySpace is about me and them and Mixi is about me with them. Japanese young people reflexively create and re-create themselves in everyday life with to-ing and fro-ing in the spectrum between two different cultural values, via SNS.
An Improved Conjugated Beam Method for Deformation Monitoring with a Distributed Sensitive Fiber Optic Sensor
Authors: Sheng Shen  , Zhishen Wu  , Caiqian Yang  , Chunfeng Wan  , Yongsheng Tang  , Gang Wu
Published: February 2010

Based on the distributed fiber optic sensing technique of pulse-prepump Brillouin Optical Time Domain Analysis, this paper proposes an improved conjugated beam method (ICBM) for distributed structural deformation monitoring. Because ICBM is suitable for the combined actions of loads, support settlements and temperature variations, it extends the application of the classical conjugated beam method. Other advantages include the linear and explicit relationship between structural deformation and strain and the fact that all calculation parameters can be easily determined free from random load or section stiffness distribution. Theoretical and experimental investigations are carried out to confirm that the accuracy of deformation monitoring with ICBM in one span of a continuous structure is related only to the accuracy of strain measurements for the same span. This characteristic is used to avoid the influence of strain measurement error accumulation from a series of strain measurement data on other spans. Such accumulation can result in uncontrolled deviation of monitoring deformation with the classical double integration method. In order to further increase the accuracy of deformation monitoring, a new distributed sensitive fiber optic sensor (DSFOS) is proposed to improve the accuracy of strain measurement with good designability according to detailed sensing requirements. The results of a uniaxial tensile experiment show that the strain measurements from DSFOSs agree well with the true values, and the measuring standard deviations appear to be lower than those obtained from UV coating fiber optic sensor. The flexural experimental results from reinforced concrete beams show that the obtained structural deflection data agree with the values observed from digital indicators. Relative to common fiber optic sensors, DSFOSs can obtain deformation and strain with higher accuracy to show applicability for daily monitoring.
Renal cell carcinoma bone metastases: clinical advances
Authors: Sahi Chakshu , Knox Jennifer J. , Clemons Mark , Joshua Anthony M. , Broom Reuben
Published: February 2010

Bone is a common site of metastatic spread in patients with advanced renal cell carcinoma (RCC) occurring in around one-third of patients enrolled in clinical trials evaluating modern systemic therapies for this disease. Until recently, limited systemic therapeutic options were available for advanced RCC. Nowadays, a quiver of agents have demonstrated activity, including compounds targeting the vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) axis and those targeting the mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR). Despite a detailed biological understanding of how these drugs work, their effect on bony metastases is less clear. Data suggesting that bisphosphonates (namely zoledronic acid) benefit patients with bone metastases from advanced RCC was gathered prior to the targeted therapy era; therefore, there is some uncertainty about their role in patients on modern RCC therapies. This review summarizes the current targeted therapies registered for use in advanced RCC and postulates how some of them might affect the behavior of bone metastases. It also explores the data available on the role of bisphosphonates for bone metastases from RCC, describes methods of assessing response to therapy for bone metastases and delineates future expectations for the treatment of bone metastases from advanced RCC.
Genetic polymorphisms of matrix metalloproteinases and their inhibitors in potentially malignant and malignant lesions of the head and neck
Authors: Chaudhary Ajay Kumar , Singh Mamta , Bharti Alok C , Asotra Kamlesh , Sundaram Shanthy , Mehrotra Ravi
Published: February 2010

Matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) are a family of zinc-dependent proteinases that are capable of cleaving all extra cellular matrix (ECM) substrates. Degradation of matrix is a key event in progression, invasion and metastasis of potentially malignant and malignant lesions of the head and neck. It might have an important polymorphic association at the promoter regions of several MMPs such as MMP-1 (-1607 1G/2G), MMP-2 (-1306 C/T), MMP-3 (-1171 5A/6A), MMP-9 (-1562 C/T) and TIMP-2 (-418 G/C or C/C). Tissue inhibitors of metalloproteinases (TIMPs) are naturally occurring inhibitors of MMPs, which inhibit the activity of MMPs and control the breakdown of ECM. Currently, many MMP inhibitors (MMPIs) are under development for treating different malignancies. Useful markers associated with molecular aggressiveness might have a role in prognostication of malignancies and to better recognize patient groups that need more antagonistic treatment options. Furthermore, the introduction of novel prognostic markers may also promote exclusively new treatment possibilities, and there is an obvious need to identify markers that could be used as selection criteria for novel therapies. The objective of this review is to discuss the molecular functions and polymorphic association of MMPs and TIMPs and the possible therapeutic aspects of these proteinases in potentially malignant and malignant head and neck lesions. So far, no promising drug target therapy has been developed for MMPs in the lesions of this region. In conclusion, further research is required for the development of their potential diagnostic and therapeutic possibilities.
The role of glucocorticoid receptor phosphorylation in Mcl-1 and NOXA gene expression
Authors: Lynch James T , Rajendran Ramkumar , Xenaki Georgia , Berrou Ilhem , Demonacos Constantinos , Krstic-Demonacos Marija
Published: February 2010

Background

The cyclin-dependent kinase (CDK) and mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) mediated phosphorylation of glucocorticoid receptor (GR) exerts opposite effects on GR transcriptional activity and affects other posttranslational modifications within this protein. The major phosphorylation site of human GR targeted by MAPK family is the serine 226 and multiple kinase complexes phosphorylate receptor at the serine 211 residue. We hypothesize that GR posttranslational modifications are involved in the determination of the cellular fate in human lymphoblastic leukemia cells. We investigated whether UV signalling through alternative GR phosphorylation determined the cell type specificity of glucocorticoids (GCs) mediated apoptosis.

Results

We have identified putative Glucocorticoid Response Elements (GREs) within the promoter regulatory regions of the Bcl-2 family members NOXA and Mcl-1 indicating that they are direct GR transcriptional targets. These genes were differentially regulated in CEM-C7-14, CEM-C1-15 and A549 cells by glucocorticoids and JNK pathway. In addition, our results revealed that the S211 phosphorylation was dominant in CEM-C7-14, whereas the opposite was the case in CEM-C1-15 where prevalence of S226 GR phosphorylation was observed. Furthermore, multiple GR isoforms with cell line specific patterns were identified in CEM-C7-14 cells compared to CEM-C1-15 and A549 cell lines with the same antibodies.

Conclusions

GR phosphorylation status kinetics, and site specificity as well as isoform variability differ in CEM-C7-14, CEM-C1-15, and A549 cells. The positive or negative response to GCs induced apoptosis in these cell lines is a consequence of the variable equilibrium of NOXA and Mcl-1 gene expression potentially mediated by alternatively phosphorylated GR, as well as the balance of MAPK/CDK pathways controlling GR phosphorylation pattern. Our results provide molecular base and valuable knowledge for improving the GC based therapies of leukaemia.
HIV-1 V3 envelope deep sequencing for clinical plasma specimens failing in phenotypic tropism assays
Authors: Vandenbroucke Ina , Van Marck Herwig , Mostmans Wendy , Van Eygen Veerle , Rondelez Evelien , Thys Kim , Van Baelen Kurt , Fransen Katrien , Vaira Dolores , Kabeya Kabamba , De Wit Stephane , Florence Eric , Moutschen Michel , Vandekerckhove Linos , Verhofstede Chris , Stuyver Lieven J
Published: February 2010

Background

HIV-1 infected patients for whom standard gp160 phenotypic tropism testing failed are currently excluded from co-receptor antagonist treatment. To provide patients with maximal treatment options, massively parallel sequencing of the envelope V3 domain, in combination with tropism prediction tools, was evaluated as an alternative tropism determination strategy. Plasma samples from twelve HIV-1 infected individuals with failing phenotyping results were available. The samples were submitted to massive parallel sequencing and to confirmatory recombinant phenotyping using a fraction of the gp120 domain.

Results

A cut-off for sequence reads interpretation of 5 to10 times the sequencing error rate (0.2%) was implemented. On average, each sample contained 7 different V3 haplotypes. V3 haplotypes were submitted to tropism prediction algorithms, and 4/14 samples returned with presence of a dual/mixed (D/M) tropic virus, respectively at 3%, 10%, 11%, and 95% of the viral quasispecies. V3 tropism prediction was confirmed by gp120 phenotyping, except for two out of 4 D/M predicted viruses (with 3 and 95%) which were phenotypically R5-tropic. In the first case, the result was discordant due to the limit of detection for the phenotyping technology, while in the latter case the prediction algorithms were not computing the viral tropism correctly.

Conclusions

Although only demonstrated on a limited set of samples, the potential of the combined use of "deep sequencing + prediction algorithms" in cases where routine gp160 phenotype testing cannot be employed was illustrated. While good concordance was observed between gp120 phenotyping and prediction of R5-tropic virus, the results suggest that accurate prediction of X4-tropic virus would require further algorithm development.
Kinematic aspects of trunk motion and gender effect in normal adults
Authors: Chung ChinYoub , Park MoonSeok , Lee SangHyeong , Kong SeJin , Lee KyoungMin
Published: February 2010

Background

The purpose of this study was to analyze kinematic trunk motion data in normal adults and to investigate gender effect.

Methods

Kinematic trunk motion data were obtained for 20 healthy subjects (11 men and 9 women; age from 21 to 40 years) during walking a 9 m long lane at a self selected speed, namely, motions in the sagittal (tilt), coronal (obliquity), and transverse (rotation) planes, which were all expressed as motions in global (relative to the ground) and those in pelvic reference frame (relative to pelvis), i.e., tilt (G), obliquity (G), rotation (G), tilt (P), obliquity (P), rotation (P).

Results

Range of tilt (G), obliquity (G) and rotation (G) showed smaller motion than that of tilt (P), obliquity (P) and rotation (P), respectively. When genders were compared, female trunks showed a 5 degree more extended posture during gait than male trunks (p = 0.002), which appeared to be caused by different lumbar lordosis. Ranges of coronal and transverse plane motion appeared to be correlated. In gait cycle, the trunk motion appeared to counterbalance the lower extremity during swing phase in sagittal plane, and to reduce the angular velocity toward the contralateral side immediate before the contralateral heel strike in the coronal plane.

Conclusions

Men and women showed different lumbar lordosis during normal gait, which might be partly responsible for the different prevalence of lumbar diseases between genders. However, this needs further investigation.
Functional consequences of DECTIN-1early stop codon polymorphism Y238X in rheumatoid arthritis
Authors: Plantinga Theo S , Fransen Jaap , Takahashi Nozomi , Stienstra Rinke , van Riel Piet L , van den Berg Wim B , Netea Mihai G , Joosten Leo AB
Published: February 2010

Introduction

Dectin-1, a pattern recognition receptor expressed by the innate immune system, is known to be a major receptor inducing Th17-type adaptive immune responses that have been demonstrated to mediate autoimmunity. In this study, dectin-1 mRNA and protein expression, as well as the recently characterized DECTIN-1 Y238X early stop codon polymorphism, were studied in relation to rheumatoid arthritis (RA) susceptibility and severity.

Methods

Dectin-1 mRNA expression was measured in synovial tissue specimens of RA, osteoarthritis (OA), and nonrheumatic patients. Dectin-1 protein expression and localization were assessed in RA synovial tissue specimens. Macrophages from individuals with different DECTIN-1 genotypes were examined for differences in cytokine responses on dectin-1 stimulation. Furthermore, clinical parameters of inflammation and bone destruction of 262 RA patients were correlated with the presence of the DECTIN-1 Y238X polymorphism.

Results

Evaluation of dectin-1 mRNA expression in synovial tissue biopsies revealed an increased expression in RA specimens, compared with biopsies from OA and nonrheumatic patients. Accordingly, dectin-1 protein expression in RA synovial tissue biopsies was moderate to high, especially on macrophage-like cells. Cytokine production capacity of macrophages bearing the DECTIN-1 Y238X polymorphism was demonstrated to be impaired on dectin-1 stimulation. However, the presence of the DECTIN-1 Y238X polymorphism was not associated with RA susceptibility or disease severity.

Conclusions

Although expression of dectin-1 was high in synovial tissue of RA patients, and reduced cytokine production was observed in macrophages of individuals bearing the DECTIN-1 Y238X polymorphism, loss of one functional allele of DECTIN-1 is not associated with either susceptibility to or severity of RA.
A fuzzy gene expression-based computational approach improves breast cancer prognostication
Authors: Haibe-Kains Benjamin , Desmedt Christine , Rothé Françoise , Piccart Martine , Sotiriou Christos , Bontempi Gianluca
Published: February 2010

Early gene expression studies classified breast tumors into at least three clinically relevant subtypes. Although most current gene signatures are prognostic for estrogen receptor (ER) positive/human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2) negative breast cancers, few are informative for ER negative/HER2 negative and HER2 positive subtypes. Here we present Gene Expression Prognostic Index Using Subtypes (GENIUS), a fuzzy approach for prognostication that takes into account the molecular heterogeneity of breast cancer. In systematic evaluations, GENIUS significantly outperformed current gene signatures and clinical indices in the global population of patients.
Genomic features defining exonic variants that modulate splicing
Authors: Woolfe Adam , Mullikin James C , Elnitski Laura
Published: February 2010

Background

Single point mutations at both synonymous and non-synonymous positions within exons can have severe effects on gene function through disruption of splicing. Predicting these mutations in silico purely from the genomic sequence is difficult due to an incomplete understanding of the multiple factors that may be responsible. In addition, little is known about which computational prediction approaches, such as those involving exonic splicing enhancers and exonic splicing silencers, are most informative.

Results

We assessed the features of single-nucleotide genomic variants verified to cause exon skipping and compared them to a large set of coding SNPs common in the human population, which are likely to have no effect on splicing. Our findings implicate a number of features important for their ability to discriminate splice-affecting variants, including the naturally occurring density of exonic splicing enhancers and exonic splicing silencers of the exon and intronic environment, extensive changes in the number of predicted exonic splicing enhancers and exonic splicing silencers, proximity to the splice junctions and evolutionary constraint of the region surrounding the variant. By extending this approach to additional datasets, we also identified relevant features of variants that cause increased exon inclusion and ectopic splice site activation.

Conclusions

We identified a number of features that have statistically significant representation among exonic variants that modulate splicing. These analyses highlight putative mechanisms responsible for splicing outcome and emphasize the role of features important for exon definition. We developed a web-tool, Skippy, to score coding variants for these relevant splice-modulating features.
The requirement for smart catheters for advanced endovascular applications
Authors: Nordon I M , Hinchliffe R J , Holt P J , Loftus I M , Thompson M M
Published: February 2010

Endovascular techniques are well established in minimally invasive vascular surgery. Stent-graft technology is evolving. This will allow more complex aortic pathology to be treated. Current limitations in this equipment include the reliance on selective catheters along with trial and error to cannulate visceral or aortic arch branch vessels. This can lead to prolonged operations with increased radiation and contrast load to the patient with inevitable increase in peri-operative morbidity. A smart catheter that could expedite target vessel catheterization, minimize repeat catheter changes, and provide greater haptic feedback would enhance the endovascular surgeon's armamentarium. This would lead to broader and safer application of endovascular surgery.
An in vitro investigation of image-guided steerable catheter navigation
Authors: Liu H , Fu Y-L , Zhou Y-Y , Li H-X , Liang Z-G , Wang S-G
Published: February 2010

The objective of this study is to provide catheterization with a three-dimensional (3D) guiding image and reduce the collision probability between the catheter tip and vascular wall. A bidirectional steerable catheter was integrated with two magnetic position-tracking sensors on both sides of its bending segment. The tracking information was displayed on the guiding image, which helped the surgeons to determine the relative position between the catheter tip and surrounding vessels. The navigation path was generated on the basis of the vascular skeleton. Moreover, along the path, a series of guiding circular planes were set as the guidance for the catheter. Three operations (bending, advancing, and twisting) were jointly conducted to get the catheter through these guiding planes in turn and eventually into the target vessel. The effectiveness of the proposed navigation method was verified by experiments implemented in an aorta vascular phantom. The navigation system has a mean error of 0.19 mm, a root mean square of 0.49 mm, and a standard deviation of 0.46 mm.
New insights into tooth wear based on in vitro studies
Authors: Richards L C , Kaidonis J A , Townsend G C
Published: February 2010

in vitro experimental systems for the study of tooth wear have the potential to overcome the long time frames and ethical complexities involved in undertaking clinical studies. The aim of this article is to review in vitro studies undertaken by the authors and highlight areas in which significant progress has been made.

Investigations of enamel, dentine, and restorative material wear and potential wear-prevention strategies were conducted using a purpose-built wear simulation machine with loads between 32 and 160 N and with specimens lubricated by solutions at pH = 6-7 (simulating a serous oral environment), pH = 3 (resembling an acidic diet), pH = 1.2 (resembling regurgitated acid), or with pooled natural saliva (pH = 7).

These studies have demonstrated a linear relationship between load and the rate of dentine wear and very low wear rates for enamel except at the highest loads (when enamel and dentine wear at similar rates) and at the lowest pHs (when both enamel and dentine wear rapidly). Comparisons of wear rates for enamel and common restorative materials have shown that at low pH, the enamel tends to wear more rapidly than any of the materials considered: resin composites are more resistant to acid and high loads than glass-ionomer cements (GICs); resin-modified GICs have intermediate properties; and, most modern dental porcelains wear at about the same rate as opposing enamel. Recent studies of preventive strategies have provided evidence of the wear-reducing potential of both lubricants and remineralizing agents.

Considered together, these studies have given a clearer understanding of the factors that influence the wear of enamel, dentine, and restorations under various conditions.
Design of an underwater positioning sensor for crawling ship hull maintenance robots
Authors: Tunawattana N , Norman R , Roskilly A P
Published: February 2010

In recent years there has been a significant increase in the automation of ship hull maintenance tasks such as cleaning, paint stripping, and in-water inspection. This is driven by several factors including reduction in cost, environmental hazard, and impact on the health of workers. The development of autonomous systems has been limited by the availability of suitable position sensors capable of providing accurate and repeatable information to a robot control system. This paper presents the development of an optical position sensor (OPS) suitable for use both underwater and in air, and designed to operate on a crawling ship hull robot. The OPS provides dead-reckoning position data which may be used in conjunction with a landmark position sensor for navigation of a robot. The OPS was based on an optical mouse sensor and telecentric lens and has been shown to provide accurate position information over a range of test speeds and working distances and when operating under non-ideal conditions in terms of angle with respect to the ship hull surface.
Effect of Phase Separation on Thermal Aging Behavior of Styrene–Butadiene Rubber Vulcanizates Using Liquid Polyisoprene as Plasticizer
Authors: Nakazono Takeo , Ozaki Anri , Matsumoto Akikazu
Published: February 2010

Styrene–butadiene rubber (SBR) vulcanizates were prepared using liquid polyisoprene (PI) and hydrogenated polyisoprene (HPI) as the plasticizers, and their structure and mechanical properties were investigated. The effect of the phase-separated structures of the SBR and the liquid polymers on the mechanical properties of the SBR vulcanizates was investigated. The constant physical properties were observed for the SBR vulcanizates during the thermal aging process when SBR and the plasticizer were miscible with each other in the vulcanizates.
In Vivo Resonance Raman Detection of Ferrous Cytochrome c from Mitochondria of Single Living Yeast Cells
Authors: Onogi Chikao , Hamaguchi Hiro-o
Published: February 2010

Raman spectra of mitochondria in living budding yeast cells (zygote of Saccharomyces cerevisiae and Saccharomyces bayanus) have been recorded with 532 nm excitation. Strong and sharp Raman bands are observed at 1584, 1315, 1129, 749, and 601 cm−1, in addition to known phospholipid bands. These Raman bands are not observed in the corresponding Raman spectrum of mitochondria obtained with 632.8 nm excitation. Their peak positions and relative intensities agree excellently with the reported resonance-enhanced Raman bands of ferrous cytochrome c, which has a Q-band absorption at 520 nm. We have thus succeeded in detecting ferrous cytochrome c, one of the key intermediates in the electron-transport chain in mitochondria, in vivo without any pretreatment. In vivo resonance Raman detection of ferrous cytochrome c opens up new possibilities for real-time and quantitative tracing of respiration dynamics in mitochondria in a single living cell.