bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Fabrication and Characterization of Binary Piezoelectric (Bi1/2Na1/2)TiO3–Ba(Cu1/3Nb2/3)O3 Solid Solutions
Authors: Kobune Masafumi , Teraoka Kenji , Nishioka Hiroshi , Yamaguchi Hideshi , Honda Koichiro
Published: September 2011

Perovskite-structured solid solutions with compositions of 0.9963(1-x)(Bi1/2Na1/2)TiO3–xBa(Cu1.1/3Nb2/3)O3 + 0.0037MnO2, with x = 0–0.06 [abbreviated as (1-x)BNT–xBCN)], were fabricated by normal sintering, and their structural, and piezo- and ferroelectric properties were investigated in detail. The X-ray diffraction profiles of the (1-x)BNT–xBCN solid solutions with x = 0–0.06 suggested that the rhombohedral-tetragonal morphotropic phase boundary (MPB) in this material system is in the compositional region x = 0.0425–0.0460. The cross-sectional transmission electron microscopy (TEM) images and selected-area electron diffraction (SAED) patterns of the (1-x)BNT–xBCN samples with x = 0.0475 suggested that the present materials have a modulation structure arranged by a double period along the [111] direction. It is shown that the tetragonal BNT–BCN (x = 0.0475) solid solution with a composition of 0.9490BNT·0.0473BCN·0.0037MnO2 near the MPB has a piezoelectric coefficient (d
33), a relative permittivity (ε33
T/ε0), and a remanent polarization (P
r) of approximately 1.8, 3.2, and 2.8 times larger, respectively, than those of the BNT solid solution without BCN substitution.
Growth of Epitaxial 100-Oriented KNbO3–NaNbO3 Solid Solution Films on (100)cSrRuO3∥(100)SrTiO3 by Hydrothermal Method and Their Characterization
Authors: Shiraishi Takahisa , Einishi Hiro , Yasui Shintaro , Ishikawa Mutsuo , Hasegawa Tomohito , Kurosawa Minoru , Uchida Hiroshi , Sakashita Yukio , Funakubo Hiroshi
Published: September 2011

Films of solid solution in KNbO3–NaNbO3 (KNN) were deposited at 240 °C on (100)cSrRuO3∥(100)SrTiO3 substrates by the hydrothermal method. (K
x
Na1-x
)NbO3 films with x = 0–1.0 were synthesized by changing the fraction of KOH in a solution of KOH and NaOH. The x in (K
x
Na1-x
)NbO3 continuously changed with the volume fraction of KOH, while the deposition amount strongly depended on x. Epitaxial films with 100 orientation were obtained in the entire composition range and their out-of-plane lattice spacing changed with x. All the films showed ferroelectricity and their remanent polarization became larger than what above x = 0.58.
Effect of Alumina Film on the Surface Acoustic Wave Properties of Crystalline Quartz and Lithium Niobate
Authors: Shih Wen-Ching , Lin Shu-Jheng , Wu Mu-Shiang
Published: September 2011

Alumina films have been successfully deposited on ST-cut quartz and 128° Y–X LiNbO3 substrates by electron beam evaporation without any interlayer between them to ensure good adhesion of the alumina films to quartz and LiNbO3 substrates. The alumina films markedly increase the surface acoustic wave (SAW) velocity and coupling coefficient, and they can be used to improve the performance of SAW devices. The increase in SAW velocity with increasing thickness of the alumina film results from the the high stiffness of the alumina layer. The temperature coefficient of frequency (TCF) value of the alumina film is positive, and it can be used to compensate the negative TCF value of the LiNbO3 substrate. More temperature-stable SAW devices on LiNbO3 substrates with a higher phase velocity and coupling coefficient could be obtained by depositing the alumina overlayer.
Anisotropic Permittivity of Tetragonal BaTiO3: A First-Principles Study
Authors: Moriwake Hiroki , Fisher Craig A. J. , Kuwabara Akihide , Hashimoto Tamotsu
Published: September 2011

The anisotropic nature of the permittivity of tetragonal BaTiO3 has been investigated by means of first-principles calculations using density-functional perturbation theory and constrained-force approaches. Our calculations suggest that the origin of the anisotropy is the presence of a soft mode with very shallow double-well potential surface that results in non-frozen dipole moments parallel to the a-axes of the tetragonal crystal. Even at relatively low temperatures, the dipoles fluctuate back and forth, resulting in net zero dipole perpendicular to the c-axis in the absence of an electric field. The enormous permittivity observed experimentally parallel to the a-axis of tetragonal BaTiO3 is a consequence of the relatively large polarization induced by these small lattice distortions, together with the low energy barrier that needs to be overcome to switch to the polarized structure.
Synchrotron Radiation Study on Time-Resolved Tetragonal Lattice Strain of BaTiO3 under Electric Field
Authors: Moriyoshi Chikako , Hiramoto Shozo , Ohkubo Hisanori , Kuroiwa Yoshihiro , Osawa Hitoshi , Sugimoto Kunihisa , Kimura Shigeru , Takata Masaki , Kitanaka Yuuki , Noguchi Yuji , Miyayama Masaru
Published: September 2011

The dynamic response of an intrinsic lattice strain in a tetragonal BaTiO3 single crystal to an electric field is investigated. Time-resolved diffraction measurement using high-energy synchrotron radiation enables us to detect the time dependence of the small change in the tetragonality of BaTiO3 during polarization reversal and piezoelectric vibration after a step like electric field antiparallel to the spontaneous polarization is applied to the sample.
Sequential Phase Transitions in Sm Substituted BiFeO3
Authors: Kubota Makoto , Oka Kengo , Nakamura Yoshitaka , Yabuta Hisato , Miura Kaoru , Shimakawa Yuichi , Azuma Masaki
Published: September 2011

The compositional and thermal evolution of the crystal structure of the solid solution Bi1-x
Sm
x
FeO3 synthesized at a high pressure of 4 GPa was investigated. It was found that Bi1-x
Sm
x
FeO3 with x = 0.10 and 0.15 had an antipolar PbZrO3-type structure with a √2a×2√2a×4a perovskite superstructure at room temperature, while that with x = 0.05 had the same structure as the parent BiFeO3 (x = 0). The x = 0.10 sample transforms from an antipolar PbZrO3-type orthorhombic structure to a polar BiFeO3-type rhombohedral structure and eventually to a nonpolar GdFeO3-type structure on heating as Zr-rich PZT.
Phase Diagram in Bi4-xGdxTi3O12
Authors: Iwata Makoto , Inohara Satoshi , Ishibashi Yoshihiro
Published: September 2011

The temperature dependences of the dielectric constants of Bi4-x
Gd
x
Ti3O12 (BGT-x) single crystals (x≤0.4) were measured. It was found that the paraelectric–ferroelectric phase transition temperature near 680 °C remains almost unchanged in the concentration range of 0≤x ≤0.4. Below the transition point at about 680 °C, another dielectric anomaly showing the phase transition was observed in BGT-x, where the transition temperature depends on the concentration x. We confirmed that the triggered transition from the tetragonal phase to the monoclinic phase, observed in Bi4Ti3O12, splits into two phase transitions with the addition of Gd cations, i.e., from the tetragonal phase to the orthorhombic phase and eventually to the monoclinic phase. The temperature-concentration phase diagram in BGT-x was clarified.
Low-Temperature Sintering and Microwave Dielectric Properties of MgO Ceramic with LiF Addition
Authors: Kan Akinori , Moriyama Tohru , Takahashi Susumu , Ogawa Hirotaka
Published: September 2011

MgO ceramics with a nominal composition of (1-x)MgO–xLiF (x = 0.02–0.10) were synthesized and the effects of LiF addition and sintering conditions on the microwave dielectric properties of MgO ceramics were investigated in this study. With LiF addition, the MgO ceramics were well-sintered at 950 °C in a covered crucible, and the Q·f value of the LiF-added MgO ceramic strongly depended on the amount of LiF and sintering time. As a result, the MgO ceramics with a nominal composition of 0.96MgO–0.04LiF (x=0.04) exhibited the highest Q·f value of 751,500 GHz (εr = 9.6 and TCf= - 56 ppm/°C) when they were sintered at 950 °C for 100 h in a covered crucible. The endothermic reaction of the MgO ceramics was observed with LiF addition by differential thermal analysis and thermograviometry (DTA–TG), and it was considered that the partial melting of MgO with LiF addition to form the liquid phase enhances the sinterability of the MgO ceramics. The crystal structure analysis of the LiF-added MgO ceramics showed a slight increase in the lattice parameters of the MgO ceramics, suggesting the Li substitution for Mg in the MgO structure.
Microwave Absorbing Property of Stacked Polypyrrole-Coated Nonwoven Textiles
Authors: Yamamoto Takashi , Egami Yoshihiro , Nishida Ken , Suzuki Kunio , Inoue Hiroshi
Published: September 2011

A new microwave absorber was formed using stacked polypryrrole nanoparticle-coated nonwoven textiles with surface resistivities from 8.5 ×107 to 3.0 Ω·cm. This microwave absorber showed typical frequency dispersion in both εr' and εr'' in a wide frequency range (1 to 75 GHz). A large reflection loss \dotΓ21 with a wide bandwidth was achieved with εr'' dispersion characteristics.
Cannabinoid and GABA modulation of sympathetic nerve activity and blood pressure in the dorsal periaqueductal gray of the rat
Authors: Dean C.
Published: September 2011

Sympathoexcitation and increased blood pressure evoked by central networks integrating defensive behavior are fundamental to the acute stress response. A balance between excitatory glutamatergic and inhibitory GABAergic neurotransmission in the dorsal periaqueductal gray (dPAG) results in a tonic level of activity in the alerting system. Neuromodulators such as endocannabinoids have been shown to influence the sympathoexcitatory and pressor components of acute stress in the dPAG, exemplified by the defense response as a model, but the mechanism of integration remains unknown. The present study examines the role of GABA and its interaction with endocannabinoids in modulating sympathetic nerve activity and blood pressure related to the defense response. Microinjection of the broad-spectrum excitatory amino acid dl-homocysteic acid (DLH) identified sites of the defense pathway in the dPAG from which an increase in renal sympathetic nerve activity and blood pressure could be evoked, and subsequent microinjections were made at the same site through a multibarrelled micropipette. Blockade of GABAA receptors or microinjection of the cannabinoid 1 receptor agonist anandamide elicited a renal sympathoexcitation and pressor response. Prior microinjection of the GABAA receptor antagonist gabazine attenuated the sympathoexcitation and pressor response associated with anandamide microinjection. In contrast, the sympathetic response to DLH was enhanced by GABAA receptor blockade. These data demonstrate that sympathoexcitatory neurons in the dPAG are under tonic inhibition by GABA and that endocannabinoids modulate this GABAergic neurotransmission to help regulate components of the defense response.
Feature integration in visual working memory: parietal gamma activity is related to cognitive coordination
Authors: Morgan Helen M. , Muthukumaraswamy Suresh D. , Hibbs Carina S. , Shapiro Kimron L. , Bracewell R. Martyn , Singh Krish D. , Linden David E. J.
Published: September 2011

The mechanism by which distinct subprocesses in the brain are coordinated is a central conundrum of systems neuroscience. The parietal lobe is thought to play a key role in visual feature integration, and oscillatory activity in the gamma frequency range has been associated with perception of coherent objects and other tasks requiring neural coordination. Here, we examined the neural correlates of integrating mental representations in working memory and hypothesized that parietal gamma activity would be related to the success of cognitive coordination. Working memory is a classic example of a cognitive operation that requires the coordinated processing of different types of information and the contribution of multiple cognitive domains. Using magnetoencephalography (MEG), we report parietal activity in the high gamma (80–100 Hz) range during manipulation of visual and spatial information (colors and angles) in working memory. This parietal gamma activity was significantly higher during manipulation of visual-spatial conjunctions compared with single features. Furthermore, gamma activity correlated with successful performance during the conjunction task but not during the component tasks. Cortical gamma activity in parietal cortex may therefore play a role in cognitive coordination.
Congenital Syphilis Like Many Years Ago
Authors: Brighi Giulia , Farneti Giorgia , Marangoni Antonella , Tridapalli Elisabetta , Neri Iria , Capretti Maria Grazia , Faldella Giacomo
Published: September 2011

This case concerns a premature infant with typical signs of congenital syphilis born to an untreated foreign mother. Syphilis prevalence in pregnant women has been rising in Italy since the beginning of the 21st century, mainly due to immigration. A correct antenatal syphilis screening and consequent adequate therapy of pregnant woman are fundamental to prevent the neonatal infection.
Clonal Propagation ofKhaya senegalensis: The Effects of Stem Length, Leaf Area, Auxins, Smoke Solution, and Stockplant Age
Authors: Ky-Dembele Catherine , Tigabu Mulualem , Bayala Jules , Savadogo Patrice , Boussim Issaka Joseph , Odén Per Christer
Published: September 2011

Khaya senegalensisis a multipurpose African timber species. The development of clonal propagation could improve plantation establishment, which is currently impeded by mahogany shoot borer. To examine its potential for clonal propagation, the effects of cutting length, leaf area, stockplant maturation, auxin, and smoke solution treatments were investigated. Leafy cuttings rooted well (up to 80%) compared to leafless cuttings (0%). Cuttings taken from seedlings rooted well (at least 95%), but cuttings obtained from older trees rooted poorly (5% maximum). The rooting ability of cuttings collected from older trees was improved (16% maximum) by pollarding. Auxin application enhanced root length and the number of roots while smoke solution did not improve cuttings' rooting ability. These results indicate that juvenileK. senegalensisis amenable to clonal propagation, but further work is required to improve the rooting of cuttings from mature trees.
Dopamine Neurons in the Ventral Tegmental Area: An Autopsy Case of Disorganized Type of Schizophrenia
Authors: Ikemoto Keiko , Oda Tatsuro , Nishimura Akiyoshi , Nishi Katsuji
Published: September 2011

The mesolimbic dopamine (DA) system has been associated with the pathogenesis of schizophrenia. Here, we examined DA-containing neuronal structures of the ventral tegmental area (VTA) of an autopsy case of disorganized type of schizophrenia (75-year-old female), using tyrosine hydroxylase (TH) immunohistochemistry. A free floating method using 50-μm cryostat sections and three-dimensional imaging analyzer AxioVision were applied to observe the wide range structures of TH-immunoreactive (-ir) neurons. TH-ir neuronal cell bodies in the VTA of the present case had irregular shape and various size, and TH-ir neuronal processes had irregular thickness and straightened shape or curved shape having many corners, when compared to a control autopsy case with no detectable neurological and psychiatric diseases (64-year-old male). The mechanisms underlying the morphological characteristics of DA neurons of the brains with schizophrenia should be elucidated epigenetically as well as genetically.
The Regenerating Gene IαIs Overexpressed in Atrophic Gastritis Rats with Hypergastrinemia
Authors: Chen Shujie , Zhong Jing , Zhou Qunyan , Lu Xiaofeng , Wang Liangjing , Si Jianmin
Published: September 2011

The role of gastrin on the development of atrophic gastritis (AG) and its relationship with the expression of RegIα  in vivoremain unclear. We established experimental AG in rats by combination administration with sodium salicylate, alcohol, and deoxycholate sodium. The mean score of inflammation in gastric antrum in AG rats was significantly elevated (P<0.05), while the number of glands dramatically decreased (P<0.05). In addition, the cell proliferation in gastric glands was increased in experimental AG rats, as determined by immunohistochemistry staining of PCNA and GS II. The level of serum gastrin in AG rats was significantly elevated relative to that of normal rats (P<0.01). Moreover, the expression of RegIα protein and its receptor mRNA was increased in gastric tissues in AG rats (P<0.05). Taken together, we demonstrated that the overexpression of Reglα is related with hypergastrinemia in AG rats.
Extramedullary Plasmacytoma of the Tonsil
Authors: Huoh Kevin C. , Van Zante Annemieke , Eisele David W.
Published: September 2011

Plasma cell tumors are a diverse group of neoplasms characterized by monoclonal proliferation of plasma cells. Extramedullary plasmacytoma (EMP) is a rare form of localized plasma cell tumor that arises most often in the head and neck region. We present an unusual case of EMP of the palatine tonsil from a tertiary care university hospital. We discuss the histopathologic and radiologic evaluation as well as treatment of EMP.
Review on Drag Reduction and Its Heat Transfer by Additives
Authors: Wang Yi , Yu Bo , Zakin Jacques L. , Shi Haifeng
Published: September 2011

Since its discovery more than 60 years ago, the drag reduction phenomenon has achieved many notable energy saving effects. These achievements have encouraged researchers to study drag reduction further and further so that it can be utilized better. But due to the complex characteristics of turbulent flow, recent theories cannot explain all the phenomena of drag reduction. To give an overview of drag reduction and corresponding heat transfer for further understanding, this paper summarizes the main advancements of drag reduction during these 60 years, including background, application, development, theory, and research methods of different drag reducers. Future directions of development are also discussed.
High Glucose Increases Metallothionein Expression in Renal Proximal Tubular Epithelial Cells
Authors: Ogawa Daisuke , Asanuma Masato , Miyazaki Ikuko , Tachibana Hiromi , Wada Jun , Sogawa Norio , Sugaya Takeshi , Kitamura Shinji , Maeshima Yohei , Shikata Kenichi , Makino Hirofumi
Published: September 2011

Metallothionein (MT) is an intracellular metal-binding, cysteine-rich protein, and is a potent antioxidant that protects cells and tissues from oxidative stress. Although the major isoforms MT-1 and -2 (MT-1/-2) are highly inducible in many tissues, the distribution and role of MT-1/-2 in diabetic nephropathy are poorly understood. In this study, diabetes was induced in adult male rats by streptozotocin, and renal tissues were stained with antibodies for MT-1/-2. MT-1/-2 expression was also evaluated in mProx24 cells, a mouse renal proximal tubular epithelial cell line, stimulated with high glucose medium and pretreated with the antioxidant vitamin E. MT-1/-2 expression was gradually and dramatically increased, mainly in the proximal tubular epithelial cells and to a lesser extent in the podocytes in diabetic rats, but was hardly observed in control rats. MT-1/-2 expression was also increased by high glucose stimulation in mProx24 cells. Because the induction of MT was suppressed by pretreatment with vitamin E, the expression of MT-1/-2 is induced, at least in part, by high glucose-induced oxidative stress. These observations suggest that MT-1/-2 is induced in renal proximal tubular epithelial cells as an antioxidant to protect the kidney from oxidative stress, and may offer a novel therapeutic target against diabetic nephropathy.
Uncommon T12 Burst Fracture after an Epileptic Crisis
Authors: Alian Akiki
Published: September 2011

People having an epileptic crisis present to the hospital with an altered mental status and generalised fatigue. The most common orthopaedic pathology associated to epilepsy is the undiagnosed posterior shoulder dislocation. These same patients often complain from back pain that is often neglected and misdiagnosed as muscular contracture following the epilepsy crisis. We describe here the case of a patient who presented after here epilepsy crisis with back pain. Investigations revealed an uncommon burst fracture that needed a surgical treatment.Conclusion. Back pain after an epileptic crisis should be investigated more seriously with an adequate clinical examination and a minimum of a radiography of the back.
Effect of Novel Marine Nutraceuticals on IL-1α-Mediated TNF-αRelease from UVB-Irradiated Human Melanocyte-Derived Cells
Authors: Muthusamy Visalini , Hodges Lynn D. , Macrides Theodore A. , Boyle Glen M. , Piva Terrence J.
Published: September 2011

UV-induced inflammation and reactive oxygen species formation are involved in the development of melanoma. Natural products like 5β-scymnol and CO2-supercritical fluid extract (CO2-SFE) of mussel oil contain anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that may aid in reducing the deleterious effects of UV radiation. Therefore, their effect on the release of the proinflammatory cytokine, tumour necrosis factor-α(TNF-α), from UVB-irradiated human melanocytic cells was examined. Human epidermal melanocytes (HEM) and MM96L melanoma cells were exposed to UVB radiation and IL-1α. Cell viability and TNF-αlevels were determined 24 hours after-irradiation while p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) activation was observed at 15 min after-irradiation. Whenα-tocopherol, CO2-SFE mussel oil, and 5β-scymnol were added to the UVB-irradiated HEM cells treated with IL-1α, TNF-αlevels fell by 53%, 65%, and 76%, respectively, while no inhibition was evident in MM96L cells. This effect was not due to inhibition of the intracellular p38 MAPK signalling pathway. These compounds may be useful in preventing inflammation-induced damage to normal melanocytes.
Transcatheter Closure of Atrial Septal Defect in a Patient with Cor Triatriatum Sinister and Atrial Septal Defect
Authors: Hongkan Wasana , Thongchaiprasit Kriangsak , Durongpisitkul Kritvikrom
Published: September 2011

Cor triatriatum sinister is a rare congenital heart disease and rarely found in adults. The authors describe an asymptomatic 20-year old man presenting with heart murmur by check up. Transthoracic and transesophageal echocardiogram demonstrate atrial septal defect (ASD) secundum 26 mm and cor triatriatum sinister with 20 mm of fenestration. Transcatheter closure of ASD using Occlutech FigullaRdevice was successfully performed without complications. Echocardiogram post procedure demonstrate good position of device without obstruction of blood flow, no residual shunt and residual 12 mm of fenestration of cor triatriatum.
A Delayed Diagnosis: Conflicting Investigation Results Should Be Challenged
Authors: Mital D. , Desai V.
Published: September 2011

We present a case where a diagnosis of advanced HIV led to many other diagnoses but more importantly life-threatening multivariant Castleman's disease which is rare and was successfully treated. This case highlights the importance of questioning and challenging investigations when it does not fit with the clinical picture. Multidisciplinary teams are crucial and always seek expert advice if unsure. The much-quoted adage of “many symptoms and signs will fit one diagnosis” also bodes well in this case.
New Method for Solving Linear Fractional Differential Equations
Authors: Rida S. Z. , Arafa A. A. M.
Published: September 2011

We develop a new application of the Mittag‐Leffler Function method that will extend the application of the method to linear differential equations with fractional order. A new solution is constructed in power series. The fractional derivatives are described in the Caputo sense. To illustrate the reliability of the method, some examples are provided. The results reveal that the technique introduced here is very effective and convenient for solving linear differential equations of fractional order.
MOMO Syndrome with Holoprosencephaly and Cryptorchidism: Expanding the Spectrum of the New Obesity Syndrome
Authors: Sharda Sheetal , Panigrahi Inusha , Marwaha Ram Kumar
Published: September 2011

There are multiple genetic disorders with known or unknown etiology grouped under obesity syndromes. Inspite of having multisystem involvement and often having a characteristic presentation, the understanding of the genetic causes in the majority of these syndromes is still lacking. The common obesity syndromes are Bardet-Biedl, Prader-Willi, Alstrom, Albright's hereditary osteodystrophy, Carpenter, Rubinstein-Taybi, Fragile X, and Börjeson-Forssman-Lehman syndrome. The list is ever increasing as new syndromes are being added to it. One of the recent additions is MOMO syndrome, with about five such cases being reported in literature. Expanding the spectrum of clinical features, we report the first case of MOMO syndrome from India with lobar variant of holoprosencephaly and cryptorchidism, which have not been reported previously.
Vaginal Microbiota of Healthy Pregnant Mexican Women is Constituted by Four Lactobacillus Species and Several Vaginosis-Associated Bacteria
Authors: Hernández-Rodríguez César , Romero-González Roberto , Albani-Campanario Mario , Figueroa-Damián Ricardo , Meraz-Cruz Noemí , Hernández-Guerrero César
Published: September 2011

Objective. To identify the microbiota communities in the vaginal tracts of healthy Mexican women across the pregnancy.Methods. Vaginal swabs were obtained during the prenatal visit of women from all trimesters () of healthy pregnant women of Mexico City. DNA was isolated from each sample, and PCR-DGGE and sequencing of 16S rRNA gene fragments were used to identify the bacterial communities.Results. 21 different microorganisms were identified in the vaginal samples.Lactobacillusgenus was present in 98% of women studied. Four lactobacilli species were identified in vaginal samples.L. acidophiluswas the predominant (78%) followed byL. iners(54%),L. gasseri(20%), andL. delbrueckii(6%). 17 different microorganisms related to bacterial vaginosis conditions were identified.Ureaplasma urealyticumwas the predominant (21%) followed by BVAB1 (17%) andGemella bergeriae(7.8%).Conclusions.Lactobacillusgenus predominates in the vaginal samples of Mexican pregnant women associated with different microorganisms related to bacterial vaginosis conditions.
Model-Independent Bounds on Kinetic Mixing
Authors: Hook Anson , Izaguirre Eder , Wacker Jay G.
Published: September 2011

New Abelian vector bosons can kinetically mix with the hypercharge gauge boson of the Standard Model. This letter computes the model-independent limits on vector bosons with masses from 1 GeV to 1 TeV. The limits arise from the numerouse+e−experiments that have been performed in this energy range and bound the kinetic mixing byϵ≲0.03for most of the mass range studied, regardless of any additional interactions that the new vector boson may have.
Intractable Chronic Vulval Ulceration Presenting as Immune Reconstitution Inflammatory Syndrome in a Treatment-Failure Patient: A Case Observation
Authors: Katusiime Christine , Ocama Ponsiano , Kambugu Andrew
Published: September 2011

HIV-1 treatment-failure patients are increasingly being initiated on second-line antiretroviral therapy. The case we describe is of a treatment-failure patient who developed intractable chronic vulval ulceration presenting as immune reconstitution inflammatory syndrome (IRIS), following complete viral suppression with second-line highly active antiretroviral treatment (HAART). To the best of our knowledge, this is the first reported case of intractable vulval ulceration IRIS in an HIV-1 treatment-failure patient.
Possible Intervals for T‐ and M‐Orders of Solutions of Linear Differential Equations in the Unit Disc
Authors: Chuaqui Martin , Gröhn Janne , Heittokangas Janne , Rättyä Jouni
Published: September 2011

In the case of the complex plane, it is known that there exists a finite set
of rational numbers containing all possible growth orders of solutions of
f(k) + ak−1(z)f(k−1) + ⋯+a1(z)f′ + a0(z)f = 0 with polynomial coefficients. In the present paper, it is shown by an example that a unit disc counterpart of such finite set does not contain all possible T‐ and M‐orders of solutions, with respect to Nevanlinna characteristic and maximum modulus, if the coefficients are analytic functions belonging either to weighted Bergman spaces or to weighted Hardy spaces. In contrast to a finite set, possible intervals for T‐ and M‐orders are introduced to give detailed information about the growth of solutions. Finally, these findings yield sharp lower bounds for the sums of T‐ and M‐orders of functions in the solution bases.
Short-Chain Fatty Acid Propionate Alleviates Akt2 Knockout-Induced Myocardial Contractile Dysfunction
Authors: Li Linlin , Hua Yinan , Ren Jun
Published: September 2011

Background and Aims. Dysregulation of Akt has been implicated in diseases such as cancer and diabetes, although little is known about the role of Akt deficiency on cardiomyocyte contractile function. This study was designed to examine the effect of Akt2 knockout-induced cardiomyocyte contractile response and the effect of dietary supplementation of short-chain fatty acid propionate on Akt2 knockout-induced cardiac dysfunction, if any.Methods and Results. Adult male wild-type (WT) and Akt2 knockout mice were treated with propionate (0.3 g/kg, p.o.) or vehicle for 7 days. Oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT) was performed. Cardiomyocyte contractile function and mitochondrial membrane potential were assessed. Expression of insulin-signaling molecules Akt, PTEN, GSK3β, and eNOS receptors for short-chain fatty acids GPR41, and GPR43 as well as protein phosphatase PP2AA, PP2AB, PP2C were evaluated using Western blot analysis. Our results revealed that Akt2 knockout led to overt glucose intolerance, compromised cardiomyocyte contractile function (reduced peak shortening and maximal velocity of shortening/relengthening as well as prolonged relengthening), loss of mitochondrial membrane potential, decreased GPR41 and elevated GPR43 expression, all of which, with the exception of glucose intolerance and elevated GPR43 level, were significantly attenuated by propionate. Neither Akt2 knockout nor propionate affected the expression of protein phosphatases, eNOS, pan, and phosphorylated PTEN and GSK3β.Conclusions. Taken together, these data depicted that Akt2 knockout may elicit cardiomyocyte contractile and mitochondrial defects and a beneficial role of propionate or short-chain fatty acids against Akt2 deficiency-induced cardiac anomalies.
Src Activation Plays an Important Key Role in Lymphomagenesis Induced by FGFR1 Fusion Kinases
Authors: Ren Mingqiang , Qin Haiyan , Ren Ruizhe , Tidwell Josephine , Cowell John K.
Published: September 2011

Chromosomal translocations and activation of the fibroblast growth factor (FGF) receptor 1 (FGFR1) are a feature of stem cell leukemia–lymphoma syndrome (SCLL), an aggressive malignancy characterized by rapid transformation to acute myeloid leukemia and lymphoblastic lymphoma. It has been suggested that FGFR1 proteins lose their ability to recruit Src kinase, an important mediator of FGFR1 signaling, as a result of the translocations that delete the extended FGFR substrate-2 (FRS2) interacting domain that Src binds. In this study, we report evidence that refutes this hypothesis and reinforces the notion that Src is a critical mediator of signaling from the FGFR1 chimeric fusion genes generated by translocation in SCLL. Src was constitutively active in BaF3 cells expressing exogenous FGFR1 chimeric kinases cultured in vitro as well as in T-cell or B-cell lymphomas they induced in vivo. Residual components of the FRS2-binding site retained in chimeric kinases that were generated by translocation were sufficient to interact with FRS2 and activate Src. The Src kinase inhibitor dasatinib killed transformed BaF3 cells and other established murine leukemia cell lines expressing chimeric FGFR1 kinases, significantly extending the survival of mice with SCLL syndrome. Our results indicated that Src kinase is pathogenically activated in lymphomagenesis induced by FGFR1 fusion genes, implying that Src kinase inhibitors may offer a useful option to treatment of FGFR1-associated myeloproliferative/lymphoma disorders. Cancer Res; 71(23); 7312–22. ©2011 AACR.
ANGPTL4 Induction by Prostaglandin E2 under Hypoxic Conditions Promotes Colorectal Cancer Progression
Authors: Kim Sun-Hee , Park Yun-Yong , Kim Sang-Wook , Lee Ju-Seog , Wang Dingzhi , DuBois Raymond N.
Published: September 2011

Prostaglandin E2 (PGE2), the most abundant COX-2–derived prostaglandin found in colorectal cancer, promotes tumor cell proliferation and survival via multiple signaling pathways. However, the role of PGE2 in tumor hypoxia is not well understood. Here, we show a synergistic effect of PGE2 and hypoxia on enhancing angiopoietin-like protein 4 (ANGPTL4) expression and that elevation of ANGPTL4 promotes colorectal cancer growth. PGE2 induces ANGPTL4 expression at both the mRNA and protein levels under hypoxic conditions. Moreover, hypoxia induces one of the PGE2 receptors, namely EP1. Activation of EP1 enhances ANGPTL4 expression, whereas blockage of EP1 by an antagonist inhibits PGE2 induction of ANGPTL4 under hypoxic conditions. Importantly, overexpression of ANGPTL4 promotes cell proliferation and tumor growth in vitro and in vivo. In addition, treatment with ANGPTL4 recombinant protein increases colorectal carcinoma cell proliferation through effects on STAT1 signaling. The MAP kinase and Src pathways mediate ANGPTL4-induced STAT1 expression and activation. These results are relevant to human disease because we found that the expression of ANGPTL4 and STAT1 are elevated in 50% of human colorectal cancers tested and there is a positive correlation between COX-2 and ANGPTL4 as well STAT1 expression in colorectal carcinomas. Collectively, these findings suggest that PGE2 plays an important role in promoting cancer cell proliferation via ANGPTL4 under hypoxic conditions. Cancer Res; 71(22); 7010–20. ©2011 AACR.
Usefulness of a Slow Nutrient Drinking Test for Evaluating Gastric Perception and Accommodation
Authors: Iida Akihito , Konagaya Toshihiro , Kaneko Hiroshi , Funaki Yasushi , Kanazawa Tamotsu , Tokudome Kentaro , Hijikata Yasutaka , Masui Ryuta , Ogasawara Naotaka , Sasaki Makoto , Yoneda Masashi , Kasugai Kunio
Published: September 2011

Background/Aim: An implication of the drinking test for gastric function is controversial. We evaluated the usefulness of a nutrient drinking test for examining gastric function by comparing it with a gastric barostat study. Methods: We investigated perceived pressure of an intragastric bag with stepwise distension and postprandial peak gastric volume (accommodation volume) with a consistent pressure after drinking a liquid meal (200 ml, 300 kcal) in 18 volunteers. Drinking a similar liquid meal on a different day at a continual rate of 15 ml/min was performed to score satiety and bloated sensations at 5-min intervals. An additional 10 volunteers performed the drinking test before and after administration of mosapride citrate or a placebo in a double-blind crossover study. Results: Pressure to induce severe discomfort correlated positively with maximum satiety volume in the drinking test (r = 0.60, p = 0.02). Accommodation volume in the barostat study showed a significant correlation (r = 0.59, p = 0.03) with threshold volume to induce bloating in the drinking test. Mosapride tended to increase the volume inducing the first bloated sensation as compared to the placebo. Conclusion: The present drinking test may be useful for evaluating the threshold to induce severe discomfort and accommodation volume.
Association between Helicobacter pylori Infection and Laryngeal Squamous Cell Carcinoma in a Chinese Male Population
Authors: Shi Yi , Gong Hongli , Zhou Liang , Tao Lei , Shi Yong , Cao Wenjun , Cheng Lei
Published: September 2011

Objectives: To investigate the presence of Helicobacter pylori in the larynx, and to identify the relationship between H. pylori infection and laryngeal squamous cell carcinoma in a male population. Methods: This study included 59 male patients with laryngeal squamous cell carcinoma and 41 control subjects. Nested polymerase chain reaction and target fragment sequencing were used to detect the presence of H. pylori in laryngeal mucosa. Logistic regression analysis was used to assess the association between H. pylori infection and laryngeal cancer. Results:H. pylori was present in a significantly greater number of patients with laryngeal carcinoma (76.3%) than in control subjects (31.7%) (p < 0.001). The correlation between H. pylori infection and laryngeal cancer was highly significant (OR = 9.82, 95% CI [3.35, 28.80], p < 0.001). Conclusions: The present study shows that H. pylori is present in the laryngeal mucosa of men, and supports a possible relationship between H. pylori infection and laryngeal squamous cell carcinoma in a male population.
Attenuation of Immune-Mediated Renal Injury by Telmisartan, an Angiotensin Receptor Blocker and a Selective PPAR-γ Activator
Authors: Hamano Yuki , Okude Takashi , Yokosuka Osamu , Ogawa Makoto
Published: September 2011

Background/Aims: Anti-glomerular basement membrane (GBM) nephritis is characterized by activation of the renin-angiotensin system. This study aimed to determine the question of whether a temporary angiotensin II blockade at the initial stage of anti-GBM nephritis is able to attenuate the disease as well as differences in renoprotection among angiotensin II receptor blockers (ARBs) with distinct peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor (PPAR)-γ-modulating activities. Methods: C57BL/6J mice were immunized with rabbit IgG, followed by intravenous injection of rabbit anti-mouse antibodies. Mice were then treated with telmisartan, losartan, and telmisartan + GW9662 (a PPAR-γ antagonist) for 5 days, or hydralazine for 9 days. On days 8 and 13, mice were sacrificed to obtain tissues for histological analysis. Results: The temporary administration of telmisartan significantly suppressed glomerular damage compared to hydralazine. Losartan showed a similar effect but was less effective. Co-administration of GW9662 attenuated the renoprotective effect of telmisartan, almost to levels observed with losartan. In particular, it limited the decreased infiltration of inflammatory cells and preservation of capillaries in the glomeruli induced by telmisartan. Conclusion: Temporary angiotensin II blockade at the initial stage of anti-GBM disease dramatically inhibited its progression. In addition to a class effect of ARBs, telmisartan modified inflammation and endothelial damage in the kidney through its PPAR-γ-agonistic action.
Association of soluble apoptotic markers with impaired left ventricular deformation in patients with rheumatoid arthritis. Effects of inhibition of interleukin-1 activity by anakinra
Authors: Ikonomidis Ignatios , Tzortzis Stavros , Lekakis John , Paraskevaidis Ioannis , Dasou Pinelopi , Parissis John , Nikolaou Maria , Markantonis Sophia , Katsimbri Pelagia , Skarantavos Grigoris , Anastasiou-Nana Maria , Andreadou Ioanna
Published: September 2011

Myocardial function is impaired in rheumatoid arthritis (RA). Inhibition of interleukin (IL)-1 activity reduces experimental myocardial infarction by limiting apoptosis. We investigated whether a) soluble apoptotic markers are related with impaired left ventricular (LV) performance and b) treatment with anakinra, an IL-1 receptor antagonist, reduces apoptotic markers leading to improved LV performance in RA. We studied 46 RA patients. In an acute, double-blind cross-over trial, 23 patients were randomised to a single injection of anakinra or placebo and after 48 hours (h) to the alternative treatment. In a chronic trial, 23 patients who received anakinra for 30 days were compared with 23 patients who received prednisolone. At baseline, 3 h and 30 days after treatment, we measured circulating IL-1β, tumour necrosis factor (TNF)-α, Fas, Fas-ligand and caspase-9 to assess apoptosis. At baseline and 30 days after treatment, we assessed LV longitudinal strain, strain rate and E/Em ratio using 2D-speckle tracking and tissue Doppler echocardiography. At baseline, increased apoptotic markers were related with reduced LongSRS and increased E/Em (p<0.05). After 3 h and 30 days of anakinra, there was a reduction in Fas (median 481 vs. 364 vs. 301 pg/ml), Fasligand (median 289 vs. 221 vs. 190 pg/ml), caspase-9 (median 1.90 vs. 1.40 vs. 1.07 ng/ml), TNF-α and IL-1β (p<0.05 for all comparisons). E/Em, LongS and LongSRS were improved after anakinra (p<0.01) and their percent changes were related with the corresponding changes of Fas and caspase-9 (p<0.05). No changes of the examined parameters were observed after prednisolone. In conclusion, inhibition of IL-1 activity by anakinra reduces apoptotic markers leading to improved LV performance in RA.
Gynaecological and obstetric bleeding in moderate and severe von Willebrand disease
Authors: de Wee Eva , Knol H. , Mauser-Bunschoten Eveline , van der Bom Johanna , Eikenboom Jeroen , Fijnvandraat Karin , Goede-Bolder Arja de , Laros-van Gorkom Britta , Ypma Paula , Zweegman Sonja , Meijer Karina , Leebeek Frank ,   for the WiN study group
Published: September 2011

A nation-wide cross-sectional study was initiated to assess gynaecological and obstetrical symptoms in an unselected cohort of women with moderate and severe von Willebrand disease (VWD) in the Netherlands. A total of 423 women aged ≥16 years were included. Bleeding severity was measured using the Tosetto Bleeding Score (BS). Menorrhagia, defined as occurrence of ≥2 menorrhagia symptoms, was reported by 81%. Of all VWD women, 78% received any kind of treatment for menorrhagia and 20% underwent a hysterectomy predominantly because of severe menstrual bleeding. Over half of the women reported more blood loss than can be expected with a normal delivery. In 52% of reported pregnancy losses curettage was needed because of bleeding. Mean number of live births was 1.9, which is comparable with the general Dutch population. In conclusion, women with moderate or severe VWD frequently have menorrhagia in need of treatment, and 20% of the VWD women underwent a hysterectomy. Bleeding complications occurred in over 50% of the women after childbirth or pregnancy loss. Progeny seems not to be affected in women with moderate or severe VWD.
Evolutionary conservation of the lipopolysaccharide binding site of β2-glycoprotein I
Authors: Ağar Çetin , de Groot Philip , Marquart J. Arnoud , Meijers Joost
Published: September 2011

β2-Glycoprotein I (β2GPI) is a highly abundant plasma protein and the major antigen for autoantibodies in the antiphospholipid syndrome. Recently, we have described a novel function of β2GPI as scavenger of lipopolysaccharide (LPS). With this in mind we investigated the conservation of β2GPI in vertebrates and set out to identify the binding site of LPS within β2GPI. The genome sequences of 42 species were surveyed. Surface plasmon resonance (SPR) was performed with peptides to characterise the binding site of β2GPI for LPS. β2GPI could be identified in most tested vertebrates with a high overall amino acid homology of 80% or more in mammals. SPR revealed that a synthesised peptide (LAFWKTDA) from domain V of β2GPI was able to compete for binding of β2GPI to LPS. The AFWKTDA sequence was completely conserved in all mammals. The peptide containing the LPS binding site attenuated the inhibition by β2GPI in a cellular model of LPS-induced tissue factor expression. Other important sites, such as the binding site for anionic phospholipids and the antiphospholipid antibody binding epitope, were also preserved. β2GPI is highly conserved across the animal kingdom, which suggests that the function of β2GPI may be more important than anticipated.
Questions and answers on the use of dabigatran and perpectives on the use of other new oral anticoagulants in patients with atrial fibrillation.
Authors: Crippa Luciano , Falanga Anna , Finazzi Guido , Marongiu Francesco , Palareti Gualtiero , Poli Daniela , Testa Sophie , Tiraferri Eros , Tosetto Alberto , Tripodi Armando , Manotti Cesare , Pengo Vittorio
Published: September 2011

Dabigatran and other new oral anticoagulants (OAC) represent a step forward in stroke prevention in patients with atrial fibrillation (AF). They indeed have been shown to be an alternative to vitamin K antagonists (VKAs) without the burden of laboratory control. However, these new drugs compete with an effective and well-established therapy, thus bringing about a series of questions and doubts. In this report members of the board of the Italian Federation of Thrombosis Centers (FCSA) answer some questions every clinician might be confronted with.
BF061, a novel antiplatelet and antithrombotic agent targeting P2Y12 receptor and phosphodiesterase
Authors: Hu Liang , Fan Zhichao , Du Hongguang , Ni Ran , Zhang Si , Yin Kanhua , Ye Jianqin , Zhang Yan , Wei Xunbin , Zhang Xiaohui , Gross Peter , Kunapuli Satya , Ding Zhongren
Published: September 2011

The addition of phosphodiesterase (PDE) inhibitors has been reported to potentiate the antithrombotic effects of P2Y12 antagonists without increasing bleeding risk. In this study, we report that a potent antiplatelet agent, 2-ethylthio-6-phenethylaminoadenosine (BF061), inhibits platelet activation and thrombosis via P2Y12 antagonism and PDE inhibition. We explored the antiplatelet mechanism of BF061 by measuring cAMP, cGMP levels, PDE activity, and the interaction between ADP and P2Y12 using atomic force microscopy. The antithrombotic effect of BF061 was evaluated in mice using intravital microscopy in FeCl3-induced mesenteric and laser-induced cremasteric arterial thrombosis models. BF061 robustly inhibited platelet aggregation and ATP release induced by multiple platelet agonists via P2Y12 antagonism and PDE inhibition. Interestingly, despite being structurally similar to BF061, P2Y12 receptor antagonist AR-C69931MX had no effect on human platelet PDE. In FeCl3-induced mesenteric arterial thrombosis model, BF061 effectively prevented thrombus formation similarly to clopidogrel; it also reduced thrombus volume in laser-injured cremaster arteriole model. In contrast, BF061 induced dramatically less bleeding at an antithrombotic dose compared to clopidogrel. In summary, we developed a novel antiplatelet and antithrombotic agent targeting both P2Y12 and PDE. Given the prevalence of combined antiplatelet therapy in clinical practice, an antiplatelet agent bearing dual activities may have therapeutic advantage as a potential antithrombotic drug.
Out of the Cabinet
Authors: Martínez-Gallardo Cecilia
Published: September 2011

This article challenges a key part of the conventional view of coalitions in presidential systems that sees them as short-lived and ad hoc. The author shows instead that there is wide variation in the durability of governing coalitions across these regimes. She develops a theory of the incentives of parties to participate in the government and the circumstances under which scholars might expect to see the existing governing coalition break down. The author draws on data from 121 cabinets in 12 Latin American countries between the late 1980s and the mid-2000s to show that the dissolution of the cabinet is more likely when the president places less value on coalition building as a policy-making strategy and when parties find it costly to participate in the government. In particular, the author shows that strong unilateral institutional powers tend to diminish the incentives of presidents to compromise with other parties; in contrast, effective legislatures and high rates of approval for the executive contribute significantly to more stable governments.