bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Cofilin regulator 14-3-3ζ is an evolutionarily conserved protein required for phagocytosis and microbial resistance
Authors: Ulvila Johanna , Vanha-aho Leena-Maija , Kleino Anni , Vähä-Mäkilä Mari , Vuoksio Milka , Eskelinen Sinikka , Hultmark Dan , Kocks Christine , Hallman Mikko , Parikka Mataleena , Rämet Mika
Published: January 2011

Phagocytosis is an ancient cellular process that plays an important role in host defense. In Drosophila melanogaster phagocytic, macrophage-like hemocytes recognize and ingest microbes. We performed an RNAi-based in vitro screen in the Drosophila hemocyte cell line S2 and identified Abi, cpa, cofilin regulator 14-3-3ζ, tlk, CG2765, and CG15609 as mediators of bacterial phagocytosis. Of these identified genes, 14-3-3ζ had an evolutionarily conserved role in phagocytosis: bacterial phagocytosis was compromised when 14-3-3ζ was targeted with RNAi in primary Drosophila hemocytes and when the orthologous genes Ywhab and Ywhaz were silenced in zebrafish and mouse RAW 264.7 cells, respectively. In Drosophila and zebrafish infection models, 14-3-3ζ was required for resistance against Staphylococcus aureus. We conclude that 14-3-3ζ is essential for phagocytosis and microbial resistance in insects and vertebrates.
SIGN-R1+MHC II+ cells of the splenic marginal zone—a novel type of resident dendritic cells
Authors: Łyszkiewicz Marcin , Ziętara Natalia , Rohde Manfred , Gekara Nelson O , Jabłońska Jadwiga , Dittmar Kurt E , Weiss Siegfried
Published: January 2011

In the spleen, the MZ forms an interface between red and white pulp. Its major function is to trap blood-borne antigens and to reorient them to APCs and lymphocytes. SIGN-R1+ cells are of the MZ inherent cell population, which for a long time, have been considered as macrophages. We now show that one subpopulation of SIGN-R1+ cells that express MHC II molecules should be considered as a resident DC. Histological analysis indicated that SIGN-R1+ cells have dendritic-like protrusions extending into T and B cell areas. Flow cytometry analysis revealed an expression profile of adhesion, costimulatory, and MHC molecules similar to cDCs but distinct from macrophages. Most importantly, SIGN-R1+MHC+ cells were able to present antigen to naïve CD4 T cells, as well as to cross-present soluble, particulate antigens secreted by Listeria monocytogenes to CD8 T cells in vitro and in vivo. Our experiments identified SIGN-R1+MHC II+ cells as professional APCs and indicate their nature as splenic resident DCs.
Thymidylate Synthase Genotype-Directed Neoadjuvant Chemoradiation for Patients With Rectal Adenocarcinoma
Authors: Tan Benjamin R. , Thomas Fabienne , Myerson Robert J. , Zehnbauer Barbara , Trinkaus Kathryn , Malyapa Robert S. , Mutch Matthew G. , Abbey Elliot E. , Alyasiry Amer , Fleshman James W. , McLeod Howard L.
Published: January 2011

Purpose

Downstaging (DS) of rectal cancers is achieved in approximately 45% of patients with neoadjuvant fluorouracil (FU) -based chemoradiotherapy (CRT). Polymorphisms in the thymidylate synthase gene (TYMS) had previously defined two risk groups associated with disparate tumor DS rates (60% v 22%). We conducted a prospective single-institution phase II study using TYMS genotyping to direct neoadjuvant CRT for patients with rectal cancer.

Patients and Methods

Patients with T3/T4, N0-2, M0-1 rectal adenocarcinoma were evaluated for germline TYMS genotyping. Patients with TYMS *2/*2, *2/*3, or *2/*4 (good risk) were treated with standard chemoradiotherapy using infusional FU at 225 mg/m2/d. Patients with TYMS *3/*3 or *3/*4 (poor risk) were treated with FU/RT plus weekly intravenous irinotecan at 50 mg/m2. The primary end point was pathologic DS. Secondary end points included complete tumor response (ypT0), toxicity, recurrence rates, and overall survival.

Results

Overall, 135 patients were enrolled, of whom 27.4% (37 of 135) were considered poor risk. The prespecified statistical goals were achieved, with DS and ypT0 rates reaching 64.4% and 20% for good-risk and 64.5% and 42% for poor-risk patients, respectively.

Conclusion

To our knowledge, this is the first study to prospectively use TYMS genotyping to direct neoadjuvant CRT in patients with rectal cancer. High rates of DS and ypT0 were achieved among both risk groups when personalized treatment was based on TYMS genotype. These results are encouraging, and further evaluation of this genotype-based strategy using a randomized study design for locally advanced rectal cancer is warranted.
The stoichiometry of the Escherichia coli Hfq protein bound to RNA
Authors: Updegrove Taylor B. , Correia John J. , Chen Yanfeng , Terry Charles , Wartell Roger M.
Published: January 2011

The Escherichia coli RNA binding protein Hfq is involved in many aspects of post-transcriptional gene expression. Tight binding of Hfq to polyadenylate sequences at the 3′ end of mRNAs influences exonucleolytic degradation, while Hfq binding to small noncoding RNAs (sRNA) and their targeted mRNAs facilitate their hybridization which in turn effects translation. Hfq binding to an A-rich tract in the 5′ leader region of the rpoS mRNA and to the sRNA DsrA have been shown to be important for DsrA enhanced translation initiation of this mRNA. The complexes of Hfq-A18 and Hfq-DsrA provide models for understanding how Hfq interacts with these two RNA sequence/structure motifs. Different methods have reported different values for the stoichiometry of Hfq-A18 and Hfq-DsrA. In this work, mass spectrometry and analytical ultracentrifugation provide direct evidence that the strong binding mode of the Hfq hexamer (Hfq6) for A18 and domain II of DsrA (DsrADII) involve 1:1 complexes. This stoichiometry was also supported by fluorescence anisotropy and a competition gel mobility shift experiment using wild-type and truncated Hfq. More limited studies of Hfq binding to DsrA as well as to the sRNAs RprA, OxyS, and an 18-nt segment of OxyS were also consistent with 1:1 stoichiometry. Mass spectrometry of cross-linked samples of Hfq6, A18, and DsrADII exhibit intensity corresponding to a ternary 1:1:1 complex; however, the small intensity of this peak and fluorescence anisotropy experiments did not provide evidence that this ternary complex is stable in solution.
Active site mapping and substrate specificity of bacterial Hen1, a manganese-dependent 3′ terminal RNA ribose 2′O-methyltransferase
Authors: Jain Ruchi , Shuman Stewart
Published: January 2011

The RNA methyltransferase Hen1 and the RNA end-healing/sealing enzyme Pnkp comprise an RNA repair system encoded by an operon-like cassette present in bacteria from eight different phyla. Clostridium thermocellum Hen1 (CthHen1) is a manganese-dependent RNA ribose 2′O-methyltransferase that marks the 3′ terminal nucleoside of broken RNAs and protects repair junctions from iterative damage by transesterifying endonucleases. Here we used the crystal structure of the homologous plant Hen1 to guide a mutational analysis of CthHen1, the results of which provide new insights to RNA end recognition and catalysis. We illuminated structure-activity relations at eight essential constituents of the active site implicated in binding the 3′ dinucleotide of the RNA methyl acceptor (Arg273, Arg414), the manganese cofactor (Glu366, Glu369, His370, His418), and the AdoMet methyl donor (Asp291, Asp316). We investigated the effects of varying the terminal nucleobase, RNA size, RNA content, and RNA secondary structure on methyl acceptor activity. Key findings are as follows. CthHen1 displayed a fourfold preference for guanosine as the terminal nucleoside. RNA size had little impact in the range of 12–24 nucleotides, but activity declined sharply with a 9-mer. CthHen1 was adept at methylating a polynucleotide composed of 23 deoxyribonucleotides and one 3′ terminal ribonucleotide, signifying that it has no strict RNA specificity beyond the 3′ nucleoside. CthHen1 methylated RNA ends in the context of duplex secondary structures. These properties distinguish bacterial Hen1 from plant and metazoan homologs.
Toward a COSMO equation-of-state model of fluids and their mixtures
Authors: Panayiotou Costas
Published: January 2011

The basic objective of this work is the development of an approximate, yet coherent and consistent equation-of-state model of fluids, which will benefit from recent developments in the successful COnductor-like Screening MOdel (COSMO)-type group-contribution models with their quantum-mechanical description of fluids. The development is done within our recent non-random hydrogen-bonding (NRHB) equation-of-state framework. In contrast to NRHB, the new model will not need any new parameters for the strong specific interactions, such as hydrogen bonds, since they will be provided by its COSMO component and the associated quantum-chemistry calculations. The bridge between COSMO and NRHB is the non-randomness factors as calculated by the quasi-chemical treatment of the non-random distribution of molecular entities in the system. Analytical expressions are provided for all basic thermodynamic quantities, including expressions for the cavitation and charging components of the solvation Gibbs energy. The new equation-of-state model is tested against experimental data for vapor pressures, heats of vaporization, and liquid densities of pure fluids and on phase equilibria of mixtures. The strength and perspectives of the new model are critically discussed.
Neuregulin 1 Promotes Excitatory Synapse Development and Function in GABAergic Interneurons
Authors: Ting Annie K. , Chen Yongjun , Wen Lei , Yin Dong-Min , Shen Chengyong , Tao Yanmei , Liu Xihui , Xiong Wen-Cheng , Mei Lin
Published: January 2011

Neuregulin 1 (NRG1) and its receptor ErbB4 are both susceptibility genes of schizophrenia. However, little is known about the underlying mechanisms of their malfunction. Although ErbB4 is enriched in GABAergic interneurons, the role of NRG1 in excitatory synapse formation in these neurons remains poorly understood. We showed that NRG1 increased both the number and size of PSD-95 puncta and the frequency and amplitude of miniature EPSCs (mEPSCs) in GABAergic interneurons, indicating that NRG1 stimulates the formation of new synapses and strengthens existing synapses. In contrast, NRG1 treatment had no effect on either the number or size of excitatory synapses in glutamatergic neurons, suggesting its synaptogenic effect is specific to GABAergic interneurons. Ecto-ErbB4 treatment diminished both the number and size of excitatory synapses, suggesting that endogenous NRG1 may be critical for basal synapse formation. NRG1 could stimulate the stability of PSD-95 in the manner that requires tyrosine kinase activity of ErbB4. Finally, deletion of ErbB4 in parvalbumin-positive interneurons led to reduced frequency and amplitude of mEPSCs, providingin vivoevidence that ErbB4 is important in excitatory synaptogenesis in interneurons. Together, our findings suggested a novel synaptogenic role of NRG1 in excitatory synapse development, possibly via stabilizing PSD-95, and this effect is specific to GABAergic interneurons. In light of the association of the genes of both NRG1 and ErbB4 with schizophrenia and dysfunction of GABAergic system in this disorder, these results provide insight into its potential pathological mechanism.
Jak2 Is Necessary for Neuroendocrine Control of Female Reproduction
Authors: Wu Sheng , Divall Sara , Hoffman Gloria E. , Le Wei Wei , Wagner Kay-Uwe , Wolfe Andrew
Published: January 2011

Gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) neurons represent the final common output of signals from the brain that regulates reproductive function. A wide range of environmental factors impact GnRH neuron activity including disease, stress, nutrition, and seasonal cues, as well as gonadal steroid hormones. The CNS response is thought to be mediated, at least in part, through intermediate signaling molecules that affect GnRH neuronal activity.In vitro, GnRH neuronal cell lines respond to a variety of ligands that activate the Jak (Janus-activated kinase)/STAT (signal transducers and activators of transcription) intracellular signaling pathway. To determine its biological function in reproduction, we used Cre (cAMP response element)/LoxP technology to generate GnRH neuron-specific Jak2 conditional knock-out (Jak2 G−/−) mice. GnRH mRNA levels were reduced in Jak2 G−/−mice when compared with controls, while the number of GnRH neurons was equivalent, indicating a reduction in GnRH gene expression. Secretion of GnRH is also reduced as basal serum luteinizing hormone (LH) levels were significantly lower in female Jak2 G−/−mice while the pituitary responded normally to exogenous GnRH. Preovulatory LH surge levels were blunted in Jak2 G−/−mice, which was correlated with reduced GnRH neuronal activation as assessed by c-Fos. However, the activation of GnRH neurons following release from estrogen-negative feedback is retained. Female Jak2 G−/−mice exhibited significantly delayed puberty and first estrus, abnormal estrous cyclicity, and impaired fertility. These results demonstrate an essential role for Jak2 signaling in GnRH neurons for normal reproductive development and fertility in female mice.
Depolarizing Actions of GABA in Immature Neurons Depend Neither on Ketone Bodies Nor on Pyruvate
Authors: Tyzio Roman , Allene Camille , Nardou Romain , Picardo Michel A. , Yamamoto Sumii , Sivakumaran Sudhir , Caiati Maddalena D. , Rheims Sylvain , Minlebaev Marat , Milh Mathieu , Ferré Pascal , Khazipov Rustem , Romette Jean-Louis , Lorquin Jean , Cossart Rosa , Khalilov Ilgam , Nehlig Astrid , Cherubini Enrico , Ben-Ari Yehezkel
Published: January 2011

GABA depolarizes immature neurons because of a high [Cl−]iand orchestrates giant depolarizing potential (GDP) generation. Zilberter and coworkers (Rheims et al., 2009; Holmgren et al., 2010) showed recently that the ketone body metabolitedl-3-hydroxybutyrate (dl-BHB) (4 mm), lactate (4 mm), or pyruvate (5 mm) shifted GABA actions to hyperpolarizing, suggesting that the depolarizing effects of GABA are attributable to inadequate energy supply when glucose is the sole energy source. We now report that, in rat pups (postnatal days 4–7), plasmad-BHB, lactate, and pyruvate levels are 0.9, 1.5, and 0.12 mm, respectively. Then, we show thatdl-BHB (4 mm) and pyruvate (200 μm) do not affect (i) the driving force for GABAAreceptor-mediated currents (DFGABA) in cell-attached single-channel recordings, (2) the resting membrane potential and reversal potential of synaptic GABAAreceptor-mediated responses in perforated patch recordings, (3) the action potentials triggered by focal GABA applications, or (4) the GDPs determined with electrophysiological recordings and dynamic two-photon calcium imaging. Only very high nonphysiological concentrations of pyruvate (5 mm) reduced DFGABAand blocked GDPs. Therefore,dl-BHB does not alter GABA signals even at the high concentrations used by Zilberter and colleagues, whereas pyruvate requires exceedingly high nonphysiological concentrations to exert an effect. There is no need to alter conventional glucose enriched artificial CSF to investigate GABA signals in the developing brain.
Value Encoding in Single Neurons in the Human Amygdala during Decision Making
Authors: Jenison Rick L. , Rangel Antonio , Oya Hiroyuki , Kawasaki Hiroto , Howard Matthew A.
Published: January 2011

A growing consensus suggests that the brain makes simple choices by assigning values to the stimuli under consideration and then comparing these values to make a decision. However, the network involved in computing the values has not yet been fully characterized. Here, we investigated whether the human amygdala plays a role in the computation of stimulus values at the time of decision making. We recorded single neuron activity from the amygdala of awake patients while they made simple purchase decisions over food items. We found 16 amygdala neurons, located primarily in the basolateral nucleus that responded linearly to the values assigned to individual items.
Selective Suppression of Plasticity in Amygdala Inputs from Temporal Association Cortex by the External Capsule
Authors: Morozov Alexei , Sukato Daniel , Ito Wataru
Published: January 2011

GABAergic neurons in the external capsule (EC) provide feedforward inhibition in the lateral amygdala (LA), but how EC affects synaptic transmission and plasticity in inputs from specific cortical areas remains unknown; this is because axonal fibers from different cortical areas are intermingled in the amygdala and cannot be activated selectively using conventional electrical stimulation. Here, we achieved selective activation of fibers from the temporal association cortex (TeA) or the anterior cingulate cortex (ACC) by using channelrhodopsin-2. Long-term potentiation (LTP) in the TeA–LA pathway, which runs through EC, was enabled by cutting connections between EC and LA or by blocking GABAAreceptor-mediated transmission. In contrast, LTP in the ACC–LA pathway, which bypasses EC, was GABAAreceptor independent. The EC transection shifted balance between inhibitory and excitatory responses in the TeA–LA pathway toward excitation, but had no effect on the ACC–LA pathway. Thus, EC provides pathway-specific suppression of amygdala plasticity.
Performative Prozesse der Kulturbegegnung und des Kulturkontakts: Hybrider und paradoxer Modus
Authors: Gvozdeva Katja
Published: January 2011

This paper discusses the performativity of intercultural encounters and transcultural fields against the background of the leading theoretical concepts and models elaborated within the current cultural studies: cultural transfer, third space, contact zones, transdifference, moment of wonder. The aim is to propose a differentiated methodological approach to intercultural encounters based on the opposition between two different modes of performativity: paradoxical and hybrid.
Medienkulturelle Dialoge. Virtuell-interaktive Ethnoscapes
Authors: Spielmann Yvonne
Published: January 2011

Among present creative practices, I feel two important criteria stand out: one is the crossover of different cultural and media elements in dialogical contexts; the other is the interaction of different views, attitudes and realities in processes of interactivity and virtuality wherein we experience variety and diversity beyond and across the dominant modes of homogenizing difference. Critical engagement beyond such polarities keeps cultural dialogue alive and inhabits the in-between zones with dynamic interaction in media landscapes. In this respect, radical artists′ practices will manifest themselves as creative interventions.
Striking the Right Note: Thomas Dallam′s Negotiation of Alterity in Istanbul (1599)
Authors: Müller Sabine Lucia
Published: January 2011

This paper starts by exploring contemporary perceptions of Thomas Dallam (born c. 1570, died after 1614), an English organ maker who is cast as a worthy predecessor of contemporary tourists. After considering the significance of such presentist styling of Dallam as an early 'director′ of an Orientalist gaze, the argument turns to Dallam′s account of his visit to the Ottoman court. While the asymmetry of power relations (Marie Louise Pratt) evident in Dallam′s description has been defused by the text′s popular reception in Britain, this paper participates in contemporary scholarly attempts at recontextualising Dallam′s travel account within its historical setting. A close reading of Dallam′s text establishes it as a poignant example of early modern cultural encounters before Orientalism (Richmond Barbour). Dallam′s text points to specific moments during which the performative character of the encounter disrupts textual closure and binary forms of signification. His account is truly remarkable for its representation of Dallam′s ongoing negotiation of both his experience of cultural encounter and of existing reductive preconceptions about Ottoman culture and society.
Kontaktzonen und der Körper des Anthropologen. Zu den Tagebuchaufzeichnungen und Briefen von Franz Boas und Bronislaw Malinowski
Authors: Bührmann Mario
Published: January 2011

This paper explores how the concept of the 'contact zone′ (conceived by Mary Louise Pratt) can be extended by means of an issue which she does not mention: the physical shape and specific corporeal reactions of those acting in cultural encounters. By means of two case studies it will be questioned if and how ethnographers regard their body as an important constituent of 'contact zones′ generated by anthropological fieldwork ‒ and how concepts of performativity may serve to shed light on these particular interactions between the ethnographer′s body and its social environment. Therefore I will pay attention to the records in the diaries and letters of Franz Boas (18581942) und Bronislaw Malinowski (18841942), since both scholars are wedded with the methodological scheme of 'participant observation′, which specifically claims the physical presence of the ethnographer by means of long standing fieldwork. With a 'performative′ view to their 'fieldwork performances′ it becomes clear that they, certainly without using the term, even regard and utilize their skin as a 'contact zone′: through the corporeal surface and its physical resistance they detect the haptic, olfactory and gustatory qualities of social life. Moreover, a performative′ view to the concept of the 'contact zone′, particularly against the background of this ethnological context, exposes the problem of the seminal methodological scheme of 'participant observation′.
Theatricality in Ethnography at the World Trade Organization. The Para-Site as Experimental Form
Authors: Deeb Hadi Nicholas , Marcus George E.
Published: January 2011

Contemporary anthropological research requires innovation in method that can take the measure of consequential reflection by many subjects on knowledge production within their own domains and anticipate how a research project might connect productively with various discursive communities and networks given the increasing complexity of ethnographic scale and context. One such innovation, the para-site, addresses these challenges by enlisting reflexive subjects as epistemic partners in orchestrated interactions situated alongside ongoing fieldwork activities. Our experiment set the para-site in the Green Room of the World Trade Organization and employed linguistic anthropology to facilitate exchanges at the level of our ethnography′s guiding concepts.
Innerstädtische Schulen als Kontaktzonen und Orte transkultureller Begegnungen
Authors: Wulf Christoph
Published: January 2011

Globalization, Europeanization and migration are changing the character of big cities and their schools. Schools become contact zones for children and young people with different cultural backgrounds. In the subsequent cultural encounters, learning to cope with cultural diversity will be a central task of education in schools. In a school culture shaped by work, talk, games, and festivities, rituals play a central role in successful learning and forming companionships. In this process, mimetic and performative styles of learning gain particular importance for the development of transcultural education.
The Global Icon of the Indian IT-Professional. Contact Zones in the Age of New Media, Globalisation and World Society
Authors: Clemens Iris
Published: January 2011

It is argued that the image of the Indian IT-Professional opens up a contact zone throughout the whole world and that it is a striking example for the structure and implications of a contact zone in the age of new media and world society. Based on the theoretical assumptions of world society (Luhmann, Stichweh), the emergence of the Indian IT-Professional as a national hero and transnational, worldwide icon of globalisation will be analysed through an indigenous perspective focussing on the Indian context itself and from a 'Western′ standpoint including observations from Germany and the U.S. The case of the contact zone established through the Indian IT-Professional shows that more than ever before in the globalised world society contact zones are established without the necessity for humans who participate in one of the involved different meaning systems to actually meet in the 'real′ world and yet that they react remarkably emotionally.
‘Był człowiekiem czerwonych przekonań’, ‘na volitvah so zmagali zeleni’: Colour Metaphors and Symbols
Authors: Hill Peter M.
Published: January 2011

This paper examines the metaphorical use of colour terms (CTs), with a special focus on the Slavonic languages. The metaphorical use of CTs is derived from their literal sense. Basic CTs are the most likely to occur in metaphorical use.

In Sl folklore, RED is the colour par excellence, opposed to BLACK and WHITE. RED had both positive and negative associations. WHITE and BLACK relate to such oppositions as good – bad, happy – unhappy, healthy – sickly, hardworking – lazy. GREY designates gloom, both literally and figuratively, while YELLOW often symbolizes betrayal and cowardice. In many languages GREEN means ‘inexperienced’, but also ‘spritely’. Anger is associated with different colours, while envy is imagined as causing a person to go blue or green. Bachilinia considers Ru goluboj to have positive connotations but sinij to be neutral. Many metaphorical or phraseological uses of CTs are internationalisms. In many cultures and in many countries, CTs have been used to denote points of the compass.
Buchbesprechung
Authors: Ławrinienko Alewtina , Bilut-Homplewicz Zofia
Published: January 2011

Pamjat i tekst: Kognitivnye i kul′turologičeskie aspekty; Memory and Text: Cognitive and Cultural Aspects. Hrsg. von Teresa Dobrzýnska und Raja T. Kunčeva. Sofia: Bojan Penev, 2005. 282 S. ISBN 954-8742-37-7
Positive suggestion techniques in somatic medicine
Authors: Kekecs Zoltán , Varga Katalin
Published: January 2011

There is a reoccurring question in medical practice: do positive attitude and communication of the medical staff make any difference? Aim: Our aim is to present a comprehensive image of the medically relevant effects of positive suggestions by reviewing the recent literature. Methods: We review the studies measuring the effects of suggestive communication of the past 20 years. In cases of studies presented in more details we quote from the suggestion scripts used in the study, too. Results: Most of the reviewed papers affirm that positive suggestions lead to decreased pain and use of pain medication. But physiological factors like bowel motility, blood pressure and bleeding during surgery can be positively affected, too. Conclusions: Suggestive communication – a yet poorly utilized tool – used appropriately can significantly affect healing and recovery of a patient. Thus we emphasize further, more detailed study of this technique and its integration into the education of medical professionals. Orv. Hetil., 2011, 152, 96–106.
Measure of fitness and physical activity related to cardiovascular diseases and death
Authors: Apor Péter
Published: January 2011

The quality of fitness (aerobic capacity, maximal endurance performance or highly related physiological parameters) or physical activity improving fitness show a tight, reverse correlation to the all-cause and to the cardiovascular mortality within. The most fit one third of the population expect a 30–40 percent smaller chance for cardiovascular events, compared to the less fit third quarter. Low fitness (that can be changed) is just as a threatening risk factor as the traditional ones, its detection calls out for simple interventions to improve fitness: proper physical exercise. Orv. Hetil., 2011, 152, 107–113.
Time‐averaged spatial profile of Xe excitation efficiency in PDPs
Authors: Shiga Tomokazu , Kahara Mamiko , Tanaka Yuusuke , Oversluizen Gerrit
Published: January 2011

Abstract— The Xe excitation efficiency for various Xe content was analyzed by monitoring the panel luminance and IR emission intensity. It was found that dependences of the Xe excitation efficiency and luminous efficacy on the sustain voltage show almost the same tendency. A decrease for increasing sustaining voltage was found in a low‐Xe‐content panel and an increase was found in a high‐Xe‐content panel. A reduction in the effective electron temperature and a reduction in plasma saturation contribute to the efficacy improvement. The time‐averaged spatial profile of the Xe excitation efficiency in PDPs was investigated by measuring the distribution of IR and blue‐phosphor emissions. The results show that the Xe excitation efficiency is similar in the cathode and anode regions even though the spatial and time development of the discharge in these regions is very different. An extended theory that takes into account not only the radiative transition process but also the collisional de‐excitation process from Xe** to Xe* is proposed for investigating the pressure dependence of the Xe excitation efficiency. By using the proposed theory, it was found that Xe excitation efficiency increases, attains a maximum value at 30% Xe, then decreases as the Xe content is increased, when the rate coefficient of the collisional de‐excitation process is less than 1.0 × 10−10 cm3/sec.
Device‐dependent angular luminance enhancement and optical responses of organic light‐emitting devices with a microlens‐array film
Authors: Chen Kuan‐Yu , Lee Jiun‐Haw , Wei Mao‐Kuo , Chang Yung‐Ting , Ho Yu‐Hsuan , Lin Jia‐Rong , Lin Hoang Yan
Published: January 2011

Abstract— By taking the organic emitter apodization calculated from electromagnetic theory as input, the angular luminance enhancement of organic light‐emitting devices (OLEDs) with a microlens‐array film (MAF) can be further evaluated by the ray‐tracing approach. First, the OLEDs of different Alq3 thickness are fabricated and their angular luminance measurements are compared to simulation results. Second, mode analyses for different layers are performed to estimate the enhancement potential of the MAF‐attached devices. Finally, by decreasing the Alq3 thickness, increasing the viewing angle, and attaching the MAF, the EL spectral peak shifts of the OLEDs seem irregular, but the spectral blue shifts induced by the optical structures are all explained by the optical responses (EL spectra divided by the intrinsic PL spectrum). In conclusion, the organic emitters with higher off‐axis‐angle luminous intensity cause lower out‐coupling efficiency but gain higher enhancement after the MAF is attached. With the choices of apodizations and microstructures, the tailored or customized angular radiation patterns can be also made possible.
Control of subjective depth on 3‐D displays by a quantified monocular depth cue
Authors: Takahashi Shuichi , Ishikawa Takanori , Hyodo Yasuhide , Ohashi Isao , Shimpuku Yoshihide , Matsubara Kazuya , Matsumiya Kazumichi , Shioiri Satoshi
Published: January 2011

Abstract— This paper considers the architecture and the effectiveness of new algorithms that control the subjective depth on 3‐D displays by modulating the contrast of stereoscopic pictures on the basis of a quantified monocular depth cue. First, a psychophysical experiment to quantify the relationship between contrast and subjective depth was conducted. This experimental result shows that the higher the contrast, the nearer the object will be perceived, corresponding to the qualitative relationship. Second, this result was applied to image‐processing algorithms that expand or contract the subjective depth of stereoscopic pictures. Subjective assessments to verify the effectiveness of the algorithms were also conducted. The results suggest that the algorithms will allow viewers to experience a highly realistic sensation.
Novel LCDs with IR‐sensitive backlights
Authors: Yi Kwonju , Choi Changkyu , Suh Sungjoo , Yoo ByungIn , Han Jae‐Joon , Park Dusik , Kim Changyeong
Published: January 2011

Abstract— In this paper, a novel multi‐touch LCD architecture with hover‐sensing capability is described. To detect multiple touch points and hover points simultaneously, a sensitive backlight, which is a backlight integrated with an IR sensor array, is introduced. The sensitive backlight uses visible light to display contents on a display screen and is also used to detect reflected IR light from objects on or near the display screen. The captured image from the sensitive backlight is used to extract touch and hover information. The proposed display architecture maintains the slim form factor of an LCD with no loss of display quality, while making it possible to sense multiple touches and hovers simultaneously.
A novel pixel memory using integrated voltage‐loss‐compensation (VLC) circuit for ultra‐low‐power TFT‐LCDs
Authors: Yamauchi Yoshimitsu , Ueda Naoki , Ogawa Yasuyuki , Tanaka Kohei , Yamamoto Keiichi
Published: January 2011

Abstract— A novel pixel memory using an integrated voltage‐loss‐compensation (VLC) circuit has been proposed for ultra‐low‐power TFT‐LCDs, which can increase the number of gray‐scale levels for a single subpixel using an analog voltage gray‐scale technique. The new pixel with a VLC circuit is integrated under a small reflective electrode in a high‐transmissive aperture‐ratio (39%) 3.17‐in. HVGA transflective panel by using a standard low‐temperature‐polysilicon process based on 1.5‐μm rules. No additional process steps are required. The VLC circuit in each pixel enables simultaneous refresh with a very small change in voltage, resulting in a two‐orders‐of‐magnitude reduction in circuit power for a 64‐color image display. The advanced transflective TFT‐LCD using the newly proposed pixel can display high‐quality multi‐color images anytime and anywhere, due to its low power consumption and good outdoor readability.
The technologies of in‐cell optical touch panel with novel input functions
Authors: Tanaka Kohei , Kato Hiromi , Sugita Yasuhiro , Usukura Naru , Maeda Kazuhiro , Brown Chris
Published: January 2011

Abstract— The technologies behind an in‐cell optical touch‐panel LCD with novel input functions will be described. By improving both the optical and electrical signal‐to‐noise ratio (SNR), a touch‐panel operation robust to ambient conditions can be achieved with a low‐power consumption suitable for integration into mobile products. The high SNR also enables a range of novel input functions making the in‐cell optical touch panel a promising platform for the next‐generation of user interface.
Detailed analysis of exciton decay time change in organic light‐emitting devices caused by optical effects
Authors: Mladenovski Saso , Penninck Lieven , Neyts Kristiaan , Reineke Sebastian
Published: January 2011

Abstract— The exciton decay time in organic light‐emitting devices (OLEDs) depends on the optical environment, i.e., the thicknesses and refractive indices of all layers in a device. The decay of an exciton can occur through a radiative or a non‐radiative channel. Each of these channels has a probability, which is expressed by, respectively, the radiative and the non‐radiative decay rate. The radiative decay rate is influenced by the optical environment, i.e., the OLED's thin‐film layer structure. In this paper, a model for estimating the change of the exciton decay time (inverse of the decay rate) is presented. In addition, the decay time change in both top‐ and bottom‐emitting OLEDs as a function of the charge‐transport layer thicknesses has been investigated. Furthermore, the most important mechanism responsible for the exciton decay time change is outlined.
Improvement in image quality of a 5.8‐in. OTFT‐driven flexible AMOLED display
Authors: Nakajima Yoshiki , Takei Tatsuya , Fujisaki Yoshihide , Fukagawa Hirohiko , Suzuki Mitsunori , Motomura Genichi , Sato Hiroto , Yamamoto Toshihiro , Tokito Shizuo
Published: January 2011

Abstract— The image quality of an OTFT‐driven flexible AMOLED display has been improved by enhancing the performance of OTFTs and OLEDs. To reduce the operating voltage of OTFTs on a plastic film, Ta2O5 with a high dielectric constant was used as a gate insulator. The organic semiconductor layer of the OTFT was successfully patterned by a polymer separator, which is an isolating wall structure using an organic material. The OTFT performance, such as its current on/off ratio, carrier mobility, and spatial uniformity on the backplane, was enhanced. A highly efficient phosphorescent OLED was used as a light‐emission device. A very thin molybdenum oxide film was introduced as a carrier‐injection layer on a pixel electrode to reduce the operating voltage of the OLED. After an OTFT‐driven flexible AMOLED display was fabricated, the luminance and uniformity on the display was improved. The fabricated display also showed clear moving images, even when it was bent at a low operating voltage.
Relationships between inherited crustal structures and seismicity in the western Alps inferred from 3D structural modeling
Authors: Sue Christian , Calcagno Philippe , Courrioux Gabriel , Tricart Pierre , Frechet Julien , Thouvenot François
Published: January 2011

We developed a 3-D structural model of a key area in the southwestern Alps, at the boundary between the external and internal zones. Six geological bodies are analyzed: internal and external basements, Briançonnais and Piemontais zones (internal sedimentary cover nappes), exotic flyschs, and external sedimentary cover. 3D volumes of each geological body are modeled using the structural map of the area projected on the Digital Elevation Model (DEM) and 5 cross-sections. The global model is interpolated from the map, DEM, and cross sections, using the potential field method, and represented by a Voronoï diagram. The final 3D-model is used as a structural frame to plot the earthquakes of the GéoFrance3D database, allowing to precisely and quantitatively investigate the relationships between crustal structures and current seismic activity of the belt. The boundary between external and internal zones corresponds to the so-called Crustal Penninic Thrust (CPT), which is a former Oligocene major thrust. Our model establishes that this former thrust represents the western limit of the seismic activity along the Briançonnais seismic arc, currently undergoing extensional tectonics.
Land and sea study of the northeastern golfe du Lion rifted margin: the Oligocene – Miocene of southern Provence (Nerthe area, SE France)
Authors: Oudet Julien , Münch* Philippe , Borgomano Jean , Quillevere Frédéric , Melinte-Dobrinescu Mihaela C. , Demory François , Viseur Sophie , Cornee Jean-Jacques
Published: January 2011

In the western Mediterranean Sea, the Liguro-Provençal Basin (LPB) is a key area for studying passive margins because of its recent formation and abundance of onshore and offshore data. The Nerthe area located in the northern margin of LPB provides the unique continuous Oligo-Miocene deposits contemporaneous of the transition rifting to drifting. However, the age of the deposits remains debated and the link between outcrops and offshore seismic data is poorly constrained. The purpose of this paper is double. First, we intend to propose a new chronostratigraphic frame based on bio- (planktonic foraminifera, calcareous nannofossils) and magneto-stratigraphy. Second, we aim to make, through the integration of new highly time-resolved seismic data and field works, a coherent onshore-offshore link concretized by a 3D geological model. The new temporal and spatial data presented in this paper allow correlating the Oligo-Miocene sequences, defining their geometry and specifying precisely the timing of syn- and post-rift stages. The first marine transgression is now precisely dated latest Chattian within the syn-rift deposits and appears to be synchronous with the first marine deposits in the offshore wells and other marginal basins. The transition from syn-rift to post-rift appears to last 3.3 Ma at maximum, between 21.8 and 18.5 Ma (late Aquitanian to early Burdigalian). It is underlined by two major erosional unconformities bearing a hiatus of around 1 Ma. The post-rift started with a major marine transgression that is now dated from middle Burdigalian, at around 18.5 Ma, as elsewhere in the LPB. Contrarily to recent proposals, the post-rift deposits are widely represented on the northeastern margin of the “Golfe du Lion”. There, the subsidence of the margin was low during the syn-rift and the transitional periods and high during the post-rift. The onset of this high post-rift subsidence appears to be synchronous with the slowdown of the Corsica-Sardinia block (CSb) motion.
Intranodal Hybrid Benign Nerve Sheath Tumor
Authors: Hayes Brian D. , O'Sullivan Maureen J.
Published: January 2011

Spindle cell lesions within lymph nodes generally raise concern for metastasis. We report the 1st intranodal hybrid schwannoma/perineurioma arising in an inguinal lymph node in a 13-year-old boy. Presentation comprised a painless, slowly enlarging mass in a patient with no clinical features of neurofibromatosis.
Nuclear Receptor Small Heterodimer Partner in Apoptosis Signaling and Liver Cancer
Authors: Zhang Yuxia , Wang Li
Published: January 2011

Small heterodimer partner (SHP, NR0B2) is a unique orphan nuclear receptor that contains the dimerization and a putative ligand-binding domain, but lacks the conserved DNA binding domain. SHP exerts its physiological function as an inhibitor of gene transcription through physical interaction with multiple nuclear receptors and transcriptional factors. SHP is a critical transcriptional regulator affecting diverse biological functions, including bile acid, cholesterol and lipid metabolism, glucose and energy homeostasis, and reproductive biology. Recently, we and others have demonstrated that SHP is an epigenetically regulated transcriptional repressor that suppresses the development of liver cancer. In this review, we summarize recent major findings regarding the role of SHP in cell proliferation, apoptosis, and DNA methylation, and discuss recent progress in understanding the function of SHP as a tumor suppressor in the development of liver cancer. Future study will be focused on identifying SHP associated novel pro-oncogenes and anti-oncogenes in liver cancer progression and applying the knowledge gained on SHP in liver cancer prevention, diagnosis and treatment.
Synthesis, Reactions and Biological Evaluation of Some New Naphtho[2,1-b]furan Derivatives Bearing a Pyrazole Nucleus
Authors: El-Wahab Ashraf H. F. Abd , Al-Fifi Zarrag Isa A. , Bedair Ahmed H. , Ali Fawzy M. , Halawa Ahmed H. A. , El-Agrody Ahemed M.
Published: January 2011

Vilsmeier formylation of 2-(1-phenylhydrazonoethyl)naphtho[2,1-b]furan (2) gave 3-naphtho[2,1-b]furan-2-yl-1-phenyl-1H-pyrazole-4-carbaldehyde (3), which was reacted with C- and N-nucleophiles to afford naphthofuranpyrazol derivatives 4-8. Treatment of 2-[(3-(naphtho[2,1-b]furan-2-yl)-1-phenyl-1H-pyrazol-4-yl)methylene]-malononitrile (4a) with reactants having active hydrogen and Et3N gave the corresponding pyrazoline, pyran and chromene addition product derivatives 10, 12 and 13, consisting of three different connected heterocyclic moieties. Reaction of 1-((3-(naphtho[2,1-b]furan-2-yl)-1-phenyl-1H-pyrazol-4-yl) methylene)-2-phenylhydrazone (6b) with AcONa and ethyl bromoacetate or chloroacetone afforded the thiazolidinone and methylthiazole derivatives 14 and 15, respectively. In addition, intramolecular cyclization of 6d with Ac2O afford the corresponding 1,3,4-thiadiazol-2-yl acetamide derivative 16. The structures of the synthesized compounds were confirmed by IR, 1H-NMR/13C-NMR and mass spectral studies. Compound 14 showed promising effects against the tested Gram positive and negative bacteria and fungi.
Synthesis, Molecular Structure, Spectral Properties and Antifungal Activity of Polymethylene-α,ω-bis(N,N- dimethyl-N-dodecyloammonium Bromides)
Authors: Brycki Bogumil , Kowalczyk Iwona , Kozirog Anna
Published: January 2011

Hexamethylene-1,6-bis-(N,N-dimethyl-N-dodecylammonium bromide) (1), pentamethylene-1,5-bis(N,N-dimethyl-N-dodecylammonium bromide) (2), tetramethylene-1,4-bis(N,N-dimethyl-N-dodecylammonium bromide) (3), trimethylene-1,3-bis(N,N-dimethyl-N-dodecylammonium bromide) (4) and ethylene-1,2-bis(N,N-dimethyl-N-dodecylammonium bromide) (5) have been obtained and characterized by FTIR and NMR spectroscopy. DFT calculations have also been carried out. The optimized bond lengths, bond angles and torsion angles calculated by Hartree-Fock/3-21G(d,p) approach have been presented. MIC values for A. niger, P. chrysogenum, C. albicans have been determined and the relationship between MIC and spacer length has been discussed.
Stereoselectivity of supported alkene metathesis catalysts: a goal and a tool to characterize active sites
Authors: Copéret Christophe
Published: January 2011

Stereoselectivity in alkene metathesis is a challenge and can be used as a tool to study active sites under working conditions. This review describes the stereochemical relevance and problems in alkene metathesis (kinetic vs. thermodynamic issues), the use of (E/Z) ratio at low conversions as a tool to characterize active sites of heterogeneous catalysts and finally to propose strategies to improve catalysts based on the current state of the art.
Problèmes pratiques de prise en charge des hormonothérapies
Authors: Brown Thomas E.R.
Published: January 2011

On trouve plusieurs types de produits d'hormonothérapie en vente au Canada, qui contiennent différents oestrogènes et progestines. Ils sont proposés en diverses présentations, en différentes doses et en plusieurs voies d'administration. Il existe des différences importantes d'action pharmacologique entre les diverses hormones et de marqueurs substituts selon la voie d'administration. On peut obtenir le même résultat clinique global avec différentes molécules, mais étant donné l'importante variabilité inter- et intrapatient des produits, il faut personnaliser le traitement pour optimiser les résultats et la qualité de vie de la patiente. (Voir page 14.)
Executive Dysfunction Immediately after Mild Stroke
Authors: Wolf Timothy J. , Barbee Amy R. , White Desiree
Published: January 2011

The purpose of this study was to determine the presence of executive function deficits immediately after mild stroke that are known to impact participation in home, work, and community life. Individuals with mild stroke who were discharged from the acute setting to the home with few or no rehabilitation services were assessed within 1 week after discharge using a cognitive battery. Using rigorous criteria to identify a specific deficit in executive function, results showed that 66% of the population (N = 35) scored in the deficit range on at least one of the four measures of executive function; 27% of the population (N = 14) scored in the deficit range on two or more measures. Although deficits post-stroke are sometimes known to spontaneously recover, cognitive dysfunction of this nature often becomes chronic. This group is typically discharged with little or no rehabilitation; by detecting these deficits in the acute stage of stroke care, occupational therapists can make appropriate rehabilitation and follow-up recommendations.
The Relationship between Neurocognitive Behavior of Executive Functions and the EFPT in Individuals with Multiple Sclerosis
Authors: Voelbel Gerald T. , Goverover Yael , Gaudino Elizabeth A. , Moore Nancy B. , Chiaravalloti Nancy , DeLuca John
Published: January 2011

The current study examined the relationship between two separate but complementary methods of assessing executive functions in individuals with multiple sclerosis (MS): (1) a neurocognitive approach with the Tower of London−DX (TOL-DX) test and (2) a functional top-down approach with the Executive Function Performance Test (EFPT). Sixty-eight individuals with MS (79% female) and 38 healthy controls (68% female) were administered both the TOL-DX test and the EFPT. For the group with MS, significant differences were found on the TOL-DX test and the EFPT executive components and functional tasks. For the group with MS, the number of moves to complete the TOL-DX tasks was significantly positively correlated to the Organization and Sequencing executive components of the EFPT and the Simple Cooking and Bill Payment tasks of the EFPT. The results demonstrate the relationship of executive function behavior and performance of instrumental activities of daily living tasks.