bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Changes in the cellular composition of the gill epithelium during the life cycle of a nonparasitic lamprey: functional and evolutionary implications
Authors: Bartels Helmut , Fazekas Ursula , Youson John H. , Potter Ian C.
Published: June 2011

Several lamprey species form pairs, comprising an anadromous parasitic species and a derivative nonparasitic species that neither leaves fresh water nor feeds as an adult. This paper provides the first description of the radical changes undergone by the cellular composition of the gill epithelium during the major phases in the life cycle of a nonparasitic lamprey (American brook lamprey, Lethenteron appendix (DeKay, 1842) (=  Lampetra appendix (DeKay, 1842)) and discusses their potential functional and evolutionary significance. The gill epithelium of the larva of L. appendix contains ammocoete mitochondrion-rich cells (AMRCs), intercalated mitochondrion-rich cells, and pavement cells, as does that of the larva of anadromous parasitic species which likewise lives in fresh water. By the completion of metamorphosis, the AMRCs have disappeared and well-developed chloride cells have been produced, the latter cell type being essential for osmoregulation by its closely related anadromous species in hypertonic environments. By the attainment of sexual maturity, the chloride cells have been lost. Such changes in the timing of chloride cell representation could help account for the ability of some metamorphosing, but not mature individuals of another nonparasitic species ( Lampetra planeri (Bloch, 1784)), to osmoregulate in up to 70% of seawater. The well-developed chloride cells in the nonparasitic L. appendix represent the retention of an ancestral character.
CMAC WITH CLUSTERING MEMORY AND ITS APPLICATION TO FACIAL EXPRESSION RECOGNITION
Authors: LIAO YU-YI , LIN JZAU-SHENG , TAI SHEN-CHUAN
Published: June 2011

In this paper, a facial expression recognition system based on cerebella model articulation controller with a clustering memory (CMAC-CM) is presented. Firstly, the facial expression features were automatically preprocessed and extracted from given still images in the JAFFE database in which the frontal view of faces were contained. Next, a block of lower frequency DCT coefficients was obtained by subtracting a neutral image from a given expression image and rearranged as input vectors to be fed into the CMAC-CM that can rapidly obtain output using nonlinear mapping with a look-up table in training or recognizing phase. Finally, the experimental results have demonstrated recognition rates with various block sizes of coefficients in lower frequency and cluster sizes of weight memory. A mean recognition rate of 92.86% is achieved for the testing images. CMAC-CM takes 0.028 seconds for test image in testing phase.
A PRIORI ERROR ESTIMATES FOR ENERGY-BASED QUASICONTINUUM APPROXIMATIONS OF A PERIODIC CHAIN
Authors: ORTNER CHRISTOPH , WANG HAO
Published: June 2011

We derive a priori error estimates for three prototypical energy-based quasicontinuum (QC) methods: the local QC method, the energy-based QC method, and the quasi-nonlocal QC method.

Our analysis decomposes the consistency error into modeling and coarsening errors. While previous results on estimating the modeling error exist, we present a new and simpler proof based on negative-norm estimates. Our stability analysis extends previous results on sharp stability estimates under homogeneous strain to the nonlinear setting. Finally, we present numerical experiments to illustrate the results of our analysis.
FINITE ELEMENT APPROACH TO IMMERSED BOUNDARY METHOD WITH DIFFERENT FLUID AND SOLID DENSITIES
Authors: BOFFI DANIELE , CAVALLINI NICOLA , GASTALDI LUCIA
Published: June 2011

The Immersed Boundary Method (IBM) has been designed by Peskin for the modeling and the numerical approximation of fluid-structure interaction problems, where flexible structures are immersed in a fluid. In this approach, the Navier–Stokes equations are considered everywhere and the presence of the structure is taken into account by means of a source term which depends on the unknown position of the structure. These equations are coupled with the condition that the structure moves at the same velocity of the underlying fluid.

Recently, a finite element version of the IBM has been developed, which offers interesting features for both the analysis of the problem under consideration and the robustness and flexibility of the numerical scheme. Initially, we considered structure and fluid with the same density, as it often happens when dealing with biological tissues. Here we study the case of a structure which can have a density higher than that of the fluid. The higher density of the structure is taken into account as an excess of Lagrangian mass located along the structure, and can be dealt with in a variational way in the finite element approach.

The numerical procedure to compute the solution is based on a semi-implicit scheme. In fluid-structure simulations, nonimplicit schemes often produce instabilities when the density of the structure is close to that of the fluid. This is not the case for the IBM approach. In fact, we show that the scheme enjoys the same stability properties as in the case of equal densities.
LARGE HYDATID CYST IN THIGH: A RARE CASE WITH CLINICO-RADIO-PATHOLOGICAL PROFILE
Authors: Pawar Inder , Mittal Amit , Bugga Permeet , Aggarwal Amit
Published: June 2011

We are presenting the case of a 26-year-old female patient who presented with a large swelling in the left thigh anteromedially. She was preoperatively diagnosed as a case of intramuscular hydatid cyst radiologically, and then cyst was removed and pathology proved the diagnosis. This case illustrates that echinococcal disease should be considered in the differential diagnosis of every cystic mass in any anatomic location, especially when they occur in areas where the disease is endemic.
BONE MASS RECOVERY OF OSTEOPENIC VITAMIN D INSUFFICIENT RATS FROM STRONTIUM RANELATE TREATMENT: DOES THE RESPONSE DEPEND ON VITAMIN D NUTRITIONAL STATUS OR ON SOURCE OF VITAMIN D (D2 VERSUS D3)?
Authors: Gonzales Chaves Macarena M. S. , Marote Clarisa , Pellegrini Gretel G. , Pighin Andrés , de Landeta Maria C. , Lifshitz Fima , Friedman Silvia M. , Mandalunis Patricia , Zeni Susana N.
Published: June 2011

It was investigated if Vitamin D (Vit D) status or source (Vitamin D2 vs. Vitamin D3) interferes with bone mass recovery from strontium ranelate (SrRa) treatment of rats with Vit D insufficiency and established osteopenia. Osteopenic and Vit D insufficient rats were divided in groups to complete a 105-day period. First experiment: The rats were fed with diets that only varied in Vit D (100 vs. 0 IU%) and/or SrRa (0 vs. 900 mg/kg/day) content. A SHAM group received Vit D throughout the experience. Second experiment: Rats were divided into groups and received Vit D2 or Vit D3 through diet and SrRa by gavages in a fasting state. Two SHAM groups received Vit D2 or Vit D3 throughout the study. Results: Levels of 25-hydroxyvitamin 25OHD were reduced in groups lacking dietary Vit D (p < 0.001). Independently of Vit D status or source, SrRa did not affect body weight gain or bone alkaline phosphatase levels; osteocalcin and C-terminal telopeptide of type I collagen levels were reduced (p < 0.05) and bone Sr content was increased (p < 0.0001). Although no improvement in biomechanical parameters was observed, total skeletal bone mineral content and proximal tibial bone mineral density were increased (p < 0.05). There was a reduction in the trabecular number and an increase in the trabecular surface and bone volume without reaching SHAM levels. Conclusion: This is the first study that examined SrRa effects in an osteopenic vitamin D–insufficient experimental model. Under our experimental conditions, SrRa increased bone Sr content independently of Vit D status or source; however, no evidence of an anabolic or antifracture effect was found, and only a slight decrease in some bone resorption parameters was observed.
WAVELET ANALYSIS FOR STATOR FAULT DETECTION IN INDUCTION MACHINES
Authors: GIACCONE SANTIAGO J. , BOSSIO GUILLERMO R. , GARCÍA GUILLERMO O. , SOLSONA JORGE A.
Published: June 2011

The main objective of the proposed analysis is the detection of inter-turn short circuits in the stator windings of an induction machine. The analysis of the space vector current modulus of an induction motor is presented in this paper. This analysis is based on Daubechies 8 wavelet with seven decomposition levels. The 5th decomposition-level detail signal for a 4 kHz sampling frequency is chosen as a fault indicator, based on simulation results that show different behaviors of the energy contained in the detail signals independent of the percentage of load and fault levels. Experimental results that validate the proposed strategy are also presented. These results also show that the strategy is in addition immune to load variations as well as to feeding voltage unbalances.
NON-MSF WAVELETS FROM SIX INTERVAL MSF WAVELETS
Authors: VYAS APARNA , DUBEY RAJESHWARI
Published: June 2011

In this article, we obtain two classes of non-MSF wavelets by considering two different classes of six-interval wavelet sets provided by Arcozzi, Behera and Madan (J. Geom. Anal.13 (2003) 557–579). Out of these classes one is countable, the non-MSF wavelets of which are non-MRA and the other one is uncountable, the non-MSF wavelets of which are MRA. The set of all non-MSF MRA wavelets of the latter class is shown to be pathconnected.
A NEW BIDIMENSIONAL EMPIRICAL MODE DECOMPOSITION BY USING RADON TRANSFORM
Authors: YANG ZHIHUA , YANG LIHUA
Published: June 2011

Based on a detailed analysis for the one-dimensional intrinsic mode function, a model of the bidimensional intrinsic mode function is found firstly. Then a new bidimensional empirical mode decomposition algorithm is developed by using the Radon transform. The existing methods have to locate the maxima and minima in a bidimensional function, and further, produce bidimensional envelopes. Those are usually hard for a real two-dimensional function. The proposed algorithm successfully avoids these difficulties. Experiments show encouraging results.
WAVELET CHARACTERIZATION OF DYADIC BMO NORM AND ITS APPLICATION IN IMAGE DECOMPOSITION FOR DISTINGUISHING BETWEEN TEXTURE AND NOISE
Authors: ZHANG TAO , FAN QIBIN
Published: June 2011

Following the oscillating theory of Meyer, many image decomposition models have been proposed to split an image into two parts: structures and textures. But these models are not effective in the case of a noisy image, because both textures and noise are oscillating patterns. In this paper, we use the local variance measure to separate noise from textures. Firstly, we examine the relationship between dyadic BMO norm and local variance. Then, we give the wavelet representation of dyadic BMO norm and local variance, and further propose a method to distinguish between texture and noise in wavelet domain. In high frequency wavelet domain, we propose a decomposition model using local variance as constraints, while in low frequency domain, we use the shrinkage scheme to distinguish them. Finally, we present various numerical results on images to demonstrate the potential of our method.
A SUSPENSION MODEL FOR BLOOD FLOW THROUGH A CATHETERIZED ARTERY
Authors: MISHRA SHAILESH , VERMA NARENDRA KUMAR , SIDDIQUI S. U.
Published: June 2011

The present work is concerned with the analysis of an axi-symmetric flow of blood through coaxial tubes where the outer tube has an axially symmetric mild stenosis and the inner tube has a balloon which is axi-symmetric in nature. The mild stenosis approximation is used to solve the present problem. The effect of the volume fraction density of the particles, the maximum height attained by the balloon, the radius of the inner tube, which keeps the balloon in position k, and the axial displacement of the balloon have been studied. Flow parameters such as the resistive impedance, the wall shear stress distribution in the stenotic region and its magnitude at the stenosis throat have been computed for different parameters. It is observed that the resistance to flow decreases with increasing values of the axial displacement of the balloon, while the resistance to flow increases with the volume fraction density of the particles, the radius of the inner tube, which keeps the balloon in position k, and the maximum height attained by the balloon. The wall shear stress distribution in the stenotic region possesses a character similar to the resistance to flow with respect to any parameter.
QUALITATIVE STUDY FOR A MULTI-DRUG RESISTANT TB MODEL WITH EXOGENOUS REINFECTION AND RELAPSE
Authors: LIU LUJU , GAO XINCHUN
Published: June 2011

One tuberculosis transmission model is formulated by incorporating exogenous reinfection, relapse, and two treatment stages of infectious TB cases. The global stability of the unique disease-free equilibrium is obtained by applying the comparison principle if the effective reproduction number for the full model is less than unity. The existence and stability of the boundary equilibria are given by introducing the invasion reproduction numbers. Furthermore, the existence and local stability of the endemic equilibrium are addressed under some conditions.
TRAVELING WAVES FOR A SIRS MODEL WITH NONLOCAL DIFFUSION
Authors: YU XIAOJING , WU CHUFEN , WENG PEIXUAN
Published: June 2011

In this paper, we study a delayed SIRS model with nonlocal diffusion. The well posedness of the model is investigated. Furthermore, we concern with the problem of traveling wave solutions. By using the partial quasi-monotone condition, cross-iteration scheme and fixed-point theorem, sufficient conditions are derived for the existence of traveling waves connecting the two equilibria which depends on the existence of a pair of upper solution and lower solution. We in fact construct a pair of upper solution and lower solution concretely to guarantee the existence of traveling waves.
Composition and Microstructure Control of Tin-Bismuth Alloys in the Pulse Plating Process
Authors: Tsai Yi-Da , Hu Chi-Chang
Published: June 2011

Pulse plating of Sn-Bi alloys were investigated from a bath containing three compounds, including citric acid (CA), ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA), and polyethylene glycol (PEG400) at pH = 1. Based on the linear sweep voltammetric (LSV) analysis, the large gap in the onset deposition potential between Sn and Bi metals led to displacement deposition at the interface between metallic Sn atoms and Bi3+ ions in the time-off (toff) period. Consequently, the pulse-plating parameters (i.e., duty percentage in the pulse cycle and pulse frequency) were adjusted to affect the double-layer charging effect and the mass transport process to control the composition and morphology of alloys. This pulse plating method provides a reliable route to obtain uniform Sn-Bi alloys of high Sn contents (e.g., 80Sn-20Bi and 90Sn-10Bi) and the eutectic 42Sn-58Bi deposit. Various Sn-Bi deposits were characterized by the scanning electron microscopic (SEM), energy-dispersive spectroscopic (EDS), and X-ray diffraction (XRD) analyses.
Low Resistance Flexible Current Collector for Lithium Secondary Battery
Authors: Yun Jin Ho , Han Gi-Beom , Lee Yong Min , Lee Young-Gi , Kim Kwang Man , Park Jung-Ki , Cho Kuk Young
Published: June 2011

Flexible current collectors are fabricated through the placement of a thin copper layer onto various polymeric films such as poly (ethylene naphthalate) (PEN), poly(ethylene terephthalate) (PET), polyimide (PI), and poly(ether sulfone) (PES) by radio-frequency magnetron sputtering. Flexible current collectors with different Cu-sputtered thicknesses were examined as a current collector for lithium secondary batteries. As the thickness of the copper layer increased, the surface resistance of the flexible current collector decreased to the level of 1 Ω/Sq, which could make the unit cell based on the flexible current collector obtain comparable capacity as a copper metal foil current collector.
Air bubble contact with endothelial cells in vitro induces calcium influx and IP3-dependent release of calcium stores
Authors: Sobolewski Peter , Kandel Judith , Klinger Alexandra L. , Eckmann David M.
Published: June 2011

Gas embolism is a serious complication of decompression events and clinical procedures, but the mechanism of resulting injury remains unclear. Previous work has demonstrated that contact between air microbubbles and endothelial cells causes a rapid intracellular calcium transient and can lead to cell death. Here we examined the mechanism responsible for the calcium rise. Single air microbubbles (50–150 μm), trapped at the tip of a micropipette, were micromanipulated into contact with individual human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) loaded with Fluo-4 (a fluorescent calcium indicator). Changes in intracellular calcium were then recorded via epifluorescence microscopy. First, we confirmed that HUVECs rapidly respond to air bubble contact with a calcium transient. Next, we examined the involvement of extracellular calcium influx by conducting experiments in low calcium buffer, which markedly attenuated the response, or by pretreating cells with stretch-activated channel blockers (gadolinium chloride or ruthenium red), which abolished the response. Finally, we tested the role of intracellular calcium release by pretreating cells with an inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate (IP3) receptor blocker (xestospongin C) or phospholipase C inhibitor (neomycin sulfate), which eliminated the response in 64% and 67% of cases, respectively. Collectively, our results lead us to conclude that air bubble contact with endothelial cells causes an influx of calcium through a stretch-activated channel, such as a transient receptor potential vanilloid family member, triggering the release of calcium from intracellular stores via the IP3 pathway.
Novel phosphorylation of aquaporin-5 at its threonine 259 through cAMP signaling in salivary gland cells
Authors: Hasegawa Takahiro , Azlina Ahmad , Javkhlan Purevjav , Yao Chenjuan , Akamatsu Tetsuya , Hosoi Kazuo
Published: June 2011

Aquaporin-5 (AQP5), a water channel, plays key roles in salivary secretion. The novel phosphorylation of AQP5 was investigated by using human salivary gland (HSG) cells and mouse salivary glands. In the HSG cells stably transfected with a wild-type mouse AQP5 construct, a protein band immunoreactive with antibody against phosphorylated PKA substrate was detected in the AQP5 immunoprecipitated sample, and its intensity was enhanced by short-term treatment of the cells with 8-bromo-cAMP, forskolin, or phorbol 12-myristate 13-acetate, but not by that with A23187 calcium ionophore. Such enhancement was inhibited in the presence of H-89, a PKA inhibitor. An AQP5 mutant (AQP5-T259A) expressed by transfection of HSG cells was not recognized by anti-phosphorylated PKA substrate antibody, even when the cells were stimulated with the protein kinase activators. Immunoblotting and immunofluorescence studies using a specific antibody detecting AQP5 phosphorylated at its Thr259 demonstrated that AQP5 was rapidly and transiently phosphorylated at the apical membrane of acinar cells in the submandibular and parotid glands after administration of isoproterenol, but not pilocarpine. Furthermore, both AQP5 and AQP5-T259A were constitutively localized at the plasma membrane in HSG cells under the resting and forskolin-stimulated conditions. These results suggest that AQP5 is phosphorylated at its Thr259 by PKA through cAMP, but not Ca2+, signaling pathways, and that this phosphorylation does not contribute to AQP5 trafficking in the salivary gland cells.
Branched-chain amino acids increase arterial blood ammonia in spite of enhanced intrinsic muscle ammonia metabolism in patients with cirrhosis and healthy subjects
Authors: Dam Gitte , Keiding Susanne , Munk Ole Lajord , Ott Peter , Buhl Mads , Vilstrup Hendrik , Bak Lasse Kristoffer , Waagepetersen Helle Sønderby , Schousboe Arne , Møller Niels , Sørensen Michael
Published: June 2011

Branched-chain amino acids (BCAA) are used in attempts to reduce blood ammonia in patients with cirrhosis and intermittent hepatic encephalopathy based on the hypothesis that BCAA stimulate muscle ammonia detoxification. We studied the effects of an oral dose of BCAA on the skeletal muscle metabolism of ammonia and amino acids in 14 patients with cirrhosis and in 7 healthy subjects by combining [13N]ammonia positron emission tomography (PET) of the thigh muscle with measurements of blood flow and arteriovenous (A-V) concentrations of ammonia and amino acids. PET was used to measure the metabolism of blood-supplied ammonia and the A-V measurements were used to measure the total ammonia metabolism across the thigh muscle. After intake of BCAA, blood ammonia increased more than 30% in both groups of subjects (both P < 0.05). Muscle clearance of blood-supplied ammonia (PET) was unaffected ( P = 0.75), but the metabolic removal rate (PET) increased significantly because of increased blood ammonia in both groups (all P < 0.05). The total ammonia clearance across the leg muscle (A-V) increased by more than 50% in both groups, and the flux (A-V) of ammonia increased by more than 45% (all P < 0.05). BCAA intake led to a massive glutamine release from the muscle (cirrhotic patients, P < 0.05; healthy subjects, P = 0.12). In conclusion, BCAA enhanced the intrinsic muscle metabolism of ammonia but not the metabolism of blood-supplied ammonia in both the patients with cirrhosis and in the healthy subjects.
Oxidative stress-induced posttranslational modification of TRPV1 expressed in esophageal epithelial cells
Authors: Kishimoto Etsuko , Naito Yuji , Handa Osamu , Okada Hitomi , Mizushima Katsura , Hirai Yasuko , Nakabe Nami , Uchiyama Kazuhiko , Ishikawa Takeshi , Takagi Tomohisa , Yagi Nobuaki , Kokura Satoshi , Yoshida Norimasa , Yoshikawa Toshikazu
Published: June 2011

Human esophageal epithelium is continuously exposed to physical stimuli or to gastric acid that sometimes causes inflammation of the mucosa. Transient receptor potential vanilloid 1 (TRPV1) is a nociceptive, Ca2+-selective ion channel activated by capsaicin, heat, and protons. It has been reported that activation of TRPV1 expressed in esophageal mucosa is involved in gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) or in nonerosive GERD symptoms. In this study, we examined the expression and function of TRPV1 in the human esophageal epithelial cell line Het1A, focusing in particular on the role of oxidative stress. Interleukin-8 (IL-8) secreted by Het1A cells upon stimulation by capsaicin or acid with/without 4-hydroxy-2-nonenal (HNE) was measured by ELISA. Following capsaicin stimulation, the intracellular production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) was determined using a redox-sensitive fluorogenic probe, and ROS- and HNE-modified proteins were determined by Western blotting using biotinylated cysteine and anti-HNE antibody, respectively. HNE modification of TRPV1 proteins was further investigated by immunoprecipitation after treatment with synthetic HNE. Capsaicin and acid induced IL-8 production in Het1A cells, and this production was diminished by antagonists of TRPV1. Capsaicin also significantly increased the production of intracellular ROS and ROS- or HNE-modified proteins in Het1A cells. Moreover, IL-8 production in capsaicin-stimulated Het1A cells was enhanced by synthetic HNE treatment. Immunoprecipitation studies revealed that TRPV1 was modified by HNE in synthetic HNE-stimulated Het1A cells. We concluded that TRPV1 functions in chemokine production in esophageal epithelial cells, and this function may be regulated by ROS via posttranslational modification of TRPV1.
Methodological validation of the dynamic heterogeneity of muscle deoxygenation within the quadriceps during cycle exercise
Authors: Koga Shunsaku , Poole David C. , Fukuoka Yoshiyuki , Ferreira Leonardo F. , Kondo Narihiko , Ohmae Etsuko , Barstow Thomas J.
Published: June 2011

The conventional continuous wave near-infrared spectroscopy (CW-NIRS) has enabled identification of regional differences in muscle deoxygenation following onset of exercise. However, assumptions of constant optical factors (e.g., path length) used to convert the relative changes in CW-NIRS signal intensity to values of relative concentration, bring the validity of such measurements into question. Furthermore, to justify comparisons among sites and subjects, it is essential to correct the amplitude of deoxygenated hemoglobin plus myoglobin [deoxy(Hb+Mb)] for the adipose tissue thickness (ATT). We used two time-resolved NIRS systems to measure the distribution of the optical factors directly, thereby enabling the determination of the absolute concentrations of deoxy(Hb+Mb) simultaneously at the distal and proximal sites within the vastus lateralis (VL) and the rectus femoris muscles. Eight subjects performed cycle exercise transitions from unloaded to heavy work rates (>gas exchange threshold). Following exercise onset, the ATT-corrected amplitudes (Ap), time delay (TDp), and time constant (τp) of the primary component kinetics in muscle deoxy(Hb + Mb) were spatially heterogeneous (intersite coefficient of variation range for the subjects: 10–50 for Ap, 16–58 for TDp, 14–108% for τp). The absolute and relative amplitudes of the deoxy(Hb+Mb) responses were highly dependent on ATT, both within subjects and between measurement sites. The present results suggest that regional heterogeneity in the magnitude and temporal profile of muscle deoxygenation is a consequence of differential matching of O2 delivery and O2 utilization, not an artifact caused by changes in optical properties of the tissue during exercise or variability in the overlying adipose tissue.
Is visceral sympathoexcitation to heat stress dependent on activation of ionotropic excitatory amino acid receptors in the rostral ventrolateral medulla?
Authors: Kenney M. J. , Meyer C. N. , Hosking K. G. , Fels R. J.
Published: June 2011

Acute heat stress activates visceral sympathetic nerve discharge (SND) in young rats, and the functional integrity of the rostral ventrolateral medulla (RVLM) is required for sustaining visceral sympathoexcitation during peak increases in internal body temperature (Tc). However, RVLM mechanisms mediating SND activation to hyperthermia remain unknown. In the present study, we investigated the role of RVLM ionotropic excitatory amino acid receptors in mediating visceral SND activation to heat stress in anesthetized, young rats. The effects of bilateral RVLM kynurenic acid (Kyn; 2.7 and 5.4 nmol), saline, or muscimol (400–800 pmol) microinjections on renal SND and splenic SND responses to heat stress were determined at peak hyperthermia (Tc41.5°C), during progressive hyperthermia (Tc40°C), and at the initiation of heating (Tcincreased from 38 to 38.5°C). RVLM Kyn microinjections did not reduce renal and splenic SND recorded during progressive or peak hyperthermia and did not attenuate SND activation at the initiation of heating. In fact, renal and splenic SND tended to be or were significantly increased following RVLM Kyn microinjections at the initiation of heating and during hyperthermia (40 and 41.5°C). RVLM muscimol microinjections at 39, 40, and 41.5°C resulted in immediate reductions in SND. These data indicate that RVLM ionotropic glutamate receptors are required for mediating visceral sympathoexcitation to acute heating and suggest that acute heating activates an RVLM ionotropic excitatory amino acid receptor dependent inhibitory input, which reduces the level of visceral SND to heating.
Unique properties of muscularis mucosae smooth muscle in guinea pig urinary bladder
Authors: Heppner Thomas J. , Layne Jeffrey J. , Pearson Jessica M. , Sarkissian Hagop , Nelson Mark T.
Published: June 2011

The muscularis mucosae, a type of smooth muscle located between the urothelium and the urinary bladder detrusor, has been described, although its properties and role in bladder function have not been characterized. Here, using mucosal tissue strips isolated from guinea pig urinary bladders, we identified spontaneous phasic contractions (SPCs) that appear to originate in the muscularis mucosae. This smooth muscle layer exhibited Ca2+ waves and flashes, but localized Ca2+ events (Ca2+ sparks, purinergic receptor-mediated transients) were not detected. Ca2+ flashes, often in bursts, occurred with a frequency (∼5.7/min) similar to that of SPCs (∼4/min), suggesting that SPCs are triggered by bursts of Ca2+ flashes. The force generated by a single mucosal SPC represented the maximal force of the strip, whereas a single detrusor SPC was ∼3% of maximal force of the detrusor strip. Electrical field stimulation (0.5–50 Hz) evoked force transients in isolated detrusor and mucosal strips. Inhibition of cholinergic receptors significantly decreased force in detrusor and mucosal strips (at higher frequencies). Concurrent inhibition of purinergic and cholinergic receptors nearly abolished evoked responses in detrusor and mucosae. Mucosal SPCs were unaffected by blocking small-conductance Ca2+-activated K+ (SK) channels with apamin and were unchanged by blocking large-conductance Ca2+-activated K+ (BK) channels with iberiotoxin (IbTX), indicating that SK and BK channels play a much smaller role in regulating muscularis mucosae SPCs than they do in regulating detrusor SPCs. Consistent with this, BK channel current density in myocytes from muscularis mucosae was ∼20% of that in detrusor myocytes. These findings indicate that the muscularis mucosae in guinea pig represents a second smooth muscle compartment that is physiologically and pharmacologically distinct from the detrusor and may contribute to the overall contractile properties of the urinary bladder.
Estradiol potentiates hypothalamic vasopressin and oxytocin neuron activation and hormonal secretion induced by hypovolemic shock
Authors: Mecawi Andre S. , Vilhena-Franco Tatiane , Araujo Iracema G. , Reis Luis C. , Elias Lucila L. K. , Antunes-Rodrigues Jose
Published: June 2011

Estrogen receptors are located in important brain areas that integrate cardiovascular and hydroelectrolytic responses, including the subfornical organ (SFO) and supraoptic (SON) and paraventricular (PVN) nuclei. The aim of this study was to evaluate the influence of estradiol on cardiovascular and neuroendocrine changes induced by hemorrhagic shock in ovariectomized rats. Female Wistar rats (220–280 g) were ovariectomized and treated for 7 days with vehicle or estradiol cypionate (EC, 10 or 40 μg/kg, sc). On the 8th day, animals were subjected to hemorrhage (1.5 ml/100 g for 1 min). Hemorrhage induced acute hypotension and bradycardia in the ovariectomized-oil group, but EC treatment inhibited these responses. We observed increases in plasma angiotensin II concentrations and decreases in plasma atrial natriuretic peptide levels after hemorrhage; EC treatment produced no effects on these responses. There were also increases in plasma vasopressin (AVP), oxytocin (OT), and prolactin levels after the induction of hemorrhage in all groups, and these responses were potentiated by EC administration. SFO neurons and parvocellular and magnocellular AVP and OT neurons in the PVN and SON were activated by hemorrhagic shock. EC treatment enhanced the activation of SFO neurons and AVP and OT magnocellular neurons in the PVN and SON and AVP neurons in the medial parvocellular region of the PVN. These results suggest that estradiol modulates the cardiovascular responses induced by hemorrhage, and this effect is likely mediated by an enhancement of AVP and OT neuron activity in the SON and PVN.
Mechanisms of Resistance to EGFR TKIs and Development of a New Generation of Drugs in Non‐Small‐Cell Lung Cancer
Authors: Kosaka Takayuki , Yamaki Ei , Mogi Akira , Kuwano Hiroyuki
Published: June 2011

Gefitinib and erlotinib, which are epidermal growth factor receptor‐ (EGFR‐) specific tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs), are widely used as molecularly targeted drugs for non‐small‐cell lung cancer (NSCLC). Currently, the search for EGFR gene mutations is becoming essential for the treatment of NSCLC since these have been identified as predictive factors for drug sensitivity. On the other hand, in almost all patients responsive to EGFR‐TKIs, acquired resistance is a major clinical problem. Mechanisms of acquired resistance reported in the past few years include secondary mutation of the EGFR gene, amplification of the MET gene, and overexpression of HGF; novel pharmaceutical agents are currently being developed to overcome resistance. This review focuses on these mechanisms of acquired resistance to EGFR‐TKIs and discusses how they can be overcome.
Primary Hyperparathyroidism: An Overview
Authors: MacKenzie-Feder Jessica , Sirrs Sandra , Anderson Donald , Sharif Jibran , Khan Aneal
Published: June 2011

Primary hyperparathyroidism is a common condition that affects 0.3% of the general population. Primary and tertiary care specialists can encounter patients with primary hyperparathyroidism, and prompt recognition and treatment can greatly reduce morbidity and mortality from this disease. In this paper we will review the basic physiology of calcium homeostasis and then consider genetic associations as well as common etiologies and presentations of primary hyperparathyroidism. We will consider emerging trends in detection and measurement of parathyroid hormone as well as available imaging modalities for the parathyroid glands. Surgical indications and approach will be reviewed as well as medical management of primary hyperparathyroidism with bisphosphonates and calcimimetics.
Development of Electric and Chemical Microthrusters
Authors: Tajmar M. , Scharlemann C. A.
Published: June 2011

The increasing application of microsatellites (from 10 kg up to 100 kg) as well as CubeSats for a rising number of various missions demands the development of miniaturized propulsion systems. Fotec and The University of Applied Sciences at Wiener Neustadt is developing a number of micropropulsion technologies including both electric and chemical thrusters targeting high performance at small scales. Our electric propulsion developments include a series of FEEP (field emission electric propulsion) thrusters, of which the thrust ranges fromμN to mN level. The thrusters are highly integrated into clusters of indium liquid-metal-ion sources that can provide ultralow thrust noise and long-term stability. We are also developing a micro PPT thruster that enables pointing capabilities for CubeSats. For chemical thrusters, we are developing novel micromonopropellant thrusters with several hundred mN as well as a 1–3 N bipropellant microrocket engine using green propellants and high specific impulse performance. This paper will give an overview of our micropropulsion developments at Fotec, highlighting performance as well as possible applications.
Micromorphological and Chemical Approaches to Understand Changes in Ecological Functions of Metal-Impacted Soils under Various Land Uses
Authors: Acosta J. A. , Martinez-Martinez S. , Faz A. , Van Mourik J. M. , Arocena J. M.
Published: June 2011

We investigated the changes in faunal activities as measures of the ecological functions of soils impacted by potentially toxic metals (PTMs) under urban, industrial, agricultural, and natural uses. Concentrations and distributions of Zn, Cd, Pb, Cu, Mn, and Fe were estimated by sequential chemical extractions, while relicts and present faunal activities were studied by micromorphological analyses. Urban and natural lands were contaminated with Pb, Cd, and Zn. Microarthropods and fungi are observed to be active in the litter decomposition in natural, agricultural and urban lands which indicates that total concentration of PTMs in soils is not a good indicator to evaluate the limitations of PTMs to fauna activity. Metals immobilization on carbonates and Fe/Mn oxides, and fertilizations reduced the negative effects of metals on faunal activity. Micromorphological analyses showed the impacts of metal on soil ecological functions in industrial site, where the surface soils are devoid of any evidence of faunal activity; likely due to high proportion of Pb and Zn in organic components. Therefore, the impacts of metals in soil fauna activities, hence ecological functions of soils, are best evaluated by the knowledge of metal partitioning on solid phases in combination with observations of fauna activities using micromorphological techniques.
Mathematics and Gender Stereotypes in One Jewish and One Druze Grade 5 Classroom in Israel
Authors: Mittelberg David , Rozner Osnat , Forgasz Helen
Published: June 2011

We report findings from qualitative case studies of two grade 5 classrooms in Israel, one Jewish and one Druze. The aim was to identify classroom factors contributing to the differences in the gendered patterns of mathematics outcomes for Jewish and Arab Israeli students. Marked differences were found in the teachers' gender-related interactions with students, and their beliefs and expectations of boys' and girls' mathematical capabilities. The Jewish teacher held conventional gender-stereotyped beliefs of male mathematical superiority. The Druze teacher believed that girls required affirmative action to overcome implied gender biases in favour of males in the Druze community. The findings support earlier research and theoretical perspectives on gender-related issues in the mathematics classroom. In particular, when teachers hold gender-biased beliefs and expectations, students' classroom experiences and mathematics learning outcomes are impacted along gender lines.
An XML Approach of Coding a Morphological Database for Arabic Language
Authors: Gridach Mourad , Chenfour Noureddine
Published: June 2011

We present an XML approach for the production of an Arabic morphological database for Arabic language that will be used in morphological analysis for modern standard Arabic (MSA). Optimizing the production, maintenance, and extension of morphological database is one of the crucial aspects impacting natural language processing (NLP). For Arabic language, producing a morphological database is not an easy task, because this it has some particularities such as the phenomena of agglutination and a lot of morphological ambiguity phenomenon. The method presented can be exploited by NLP applications such as syntactic analysis, semantic analysis, information retrieval, and orthographical correction.
Blocking Detection Based on Synoptic Filters
Authors: Schalge Bernd , Blender Richard , Fraedrich Klaus
Published: June 2011

The Tibaldi-Molteni blocking index is supplemented by additional filter criteria to eliminate cut-off lows and subsynoptic structures. We introduce three blocking filters and analyse their sensitivities: (i) a quantile filter requiring a minimum geopotential height anomaly to reject cut-off lows, (ii) an extent filter to extract scales above a minimum zonal width, and (iii) a persistence filter to extract events with a minimum duration. Practical filter application is analysed in two case studies and the blocking climatologies for the Northern and the Southern Hemisphere.
Clinical Significance of miR-146a in Gastric Cancer Cases
Authors: Kogo Ryunosuke , Mimori Koshi , Tanaka Fumiaki , Komune Shizuo , Mori Masaki
Published: June 2011

Purpose: The profiles of microRNAs change significantly in gastric cancer. MiR-146a is reported to be a tumor suppressor in pancreatic cancer, breast cancer, and prostate cancer. We investigated the clinical significance of miR-146a in gastric cancer, in particular focusing on hypothetical miR-146a target genes, such as epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) and interleukin-1 receptor-associated kinase (IRAK1).

Experimental Design: We examined miR-146a levels in 90 gastric cancer samples by q-real-time (qRT)–PCR and analyzed the association between miR-146a levels and clinicopathologic factors and prognosis. The regulation of EGFR and IRAK1 by miR-146a was examined with miR-146a–transfected gastric cancer cells. Moreover, we analyzed the association between miR-146a levels and the G/C single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) within pre-miR-146a seed sequences in 76 gastric cancer samples, using direct sequencing of genomic DNA.

Results: In 90 clinical samples of gastric cancer, miR-146a levels in cancer tissues were significantly lower than those in the corresponding noncancerous tissue (P < 0.001). Lower levels of miR-146a were associated with lymph node metastasis and venous invasion (P < 0.05). Moreover, a lower level of miR-146a was an independent prognostic factor for overall survival (P = 0.003). Ectopic expression of miR-146a inhibited migration and invasion and downregulated EGFR and IRAK1 expression in gastric cancer cells. In addition, G/C SNP within the pre-miR-146a seed sequence significantly reduced miR-146a levels in the GG genotype compared with the CC genotype.

Conclusions: MiR-146a contains an SNP, which is associated with mature miR-146a expression. MiR-146a targeting of EGFR and IRAK1 is an independent prognostic factor in gastric cancer cases. Clin Cancer Res; 17(13); 4277–84. ©2011 AACR.
Increased Detection Sensitivity for KRAS Mutations Enhances the Prediction of Anti-EGFR Monoclonal Antibody Resistance in Metastatic Colorectal Cancer
Authors: Molinari Francesca , Felicioni Lara , Buscarino Michela , De Dosso Sara , Buttitta Fiamma , Malatesta Sara , Movilia Alessandra , Luoni Marco , Boldorini Renzo , Alabiso Oscar , Girlando Salvatore , Soini Barbara , Spitale Alessandra , Di Nicolantonio Federica , Saletti Piercarlo , Crippa Stefano , Mazzucchelli Luca , Marchetti Antonio , Bardelli Alberto , Frattini Milo
Published: June 2011

Purpose: KRAS mutations represent the main cause of resistance to anti-epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) monoclonal antibodies (MoAbs) in metastatic colorectal cancer (mCRC). We evaluated whether highly sensitive methods for KRAS investigation improve the accuracy of predictions of anti-EGFR MoAbs efficacy.

Experimental Design: We retrospectively evaluated objective tumor responses in mCRC patients treated with cetuximab or panitumumab. KRAS codons 12 and 13 were examined by direct sequencing, MALDI-TOF MS, mutant-enriched PCR, and engineered mutant-enriched PCR, which have a sensitivity of 20%, 10%, 0.1%, and 0.1%, respectively. In addition, we analyzed KRAS codon 61, BRAF, and PIK3CA by direct sequencing and PTEN expression by immunohistochemistry.

Results: In total, 111 patients were considered. Direct sequencing revealed mutations in codons 12 and 13 of KRAS in 43/111 patients (39%) and BRAF mutations in 9/111 (8%), with almost all of these occurring in nonresponder patients. Using highly sensitive methods, we identified up to 13 additional KRAS mutations compared with direct sequencing, all occurring in nonresponders. By analyzing PIK3CA and PTEN, we found that of these 13 patients, 7 did not show any additional alteration in the PI3K pathway.

Conclusions: The application of highly sensitive methods for the detection of KRAS mutations significantly improves the identification of mCRC patients resistant to anti-EGFR MoAbs. Clin Cancer Res; 17(14); 4901–14. ©2011 AACR.
Role of CXCR3 Ligands in IL-7/IL-7Rα-Fc–Mediated Antitumor Activity in Lung Cancer
Authors: Andersson Åsa , Srivastava Minu K. , Harris-White Marni , Huang Min , Zhu Li , Elashoff David , Strieter Robert M. , Dubinett Steven M. , Sharma Sherven
Published: June 2011

Purpose: We evaluated the utility of chimeric γc homeostatic cytokine, IL-7/IL-7Rα-Fc, to restore host APC (antigen presenting cell) and T cell activities in lung cancer.

Experimental Design: Utilizing murine lung cancer models we determined the antitumor efficacy of IL-7/IL-7Rα-Fc. APC, T cell, cytokine analyses, neutralization of CXCL9, CXCL10, and IFNγ were carried out to evaluate the mechanistic differences in the antitumor activity of IL-7/IL-7Rα-Fc in comparison to controls.

Results: IL-7/IL-7Rα-Fc administration inhibited tumor growth and increased survival in lung cancer. Accompanying the tumor growth inhibition were increases in APC and T cell activities. In comparison to controls, IL-7/IL-7Rα-Fc treatment of tumor bearing mice led to increased: (i) levels of CXCL9, CXCL10, IFNγ, IL-12 but reduced IL-10 and TGFβ, (ii) tumor macrophage infiltrates characteristic of M1 phenotype with increased IL-12, iNOS but reduced IL-10 and arginase, (iii) frequencies of T and NK cells, (iv) T cell activation markers CXCR3, CD69 and CD127low, (v) effector memory T cells, and (vi) T cell cytolytic activity against parental tumor cells. IL-7/IL-7Rα-Fc treatment abrogated the tumor induced reduction in splenic functional APC activity to T responder cells. The CXCR3 ligands played an important role in IL-7/IL-7Rα-Fc–mediated antitumor activity. Neutralization of CXCL9, CXCL10, or IFNγ reduced CXCR3 expressing activated T cells infiltrating the tumor and abrogated IL-7/IL-7Rα-Fc–mediated tumor growth inhibition.

Conclusions: Our findings show that IL-7/IL-7Rα-Fc promotes afferent and efferent antitumor responses in lung cancer. Clin Cancer Res; 17(11); 3660–72. ©2011 AACR.
BRAF Activation Induces Transformation and Then Senescence in Human Neural Stem Cells: A Pilocytic Astrocytoma Model
Authors: Raabe Eric H. , Lim Kah Suan , Kim Julia M. , Meeker Alan , Mao Xing-gang , Nikkhah Guido , Maciaczyk Jarek , Kahlert Ulf , Jain Deepali , Bar Eli , Cohen Kenneth J. , Eberhart Charles G.
Published: June 2011

Purpose: BRAF is frequently activated by gene fusion or point mutation in pilocytic astrocytoma, the most common pediatric brain tumor. We investigated the functional effect of constitutive BRAF activation in normal human neural stem and progenitor cells to determine its role in tumor induction in the brain.

Experimental Design: The constitutively active BRAFV600E allele was introduced into human neurospheres, and its effects on MAPK (mitogen-activated protein kinase) signaling, proliferation, soft agarose colony formation, stem cell phenotype, and induction of cellular senescence were assayed. Immunohistochemistry was used to examine p16INK4a levels in pilocytic astrocytoma.

Results: BRAFV600E expression initially strongly promoted colony formation but did not lead to significantly increased proliferation. BRAFV600E-expressing cells subsequently stopped proliferating and induced markers of oncogene-induced senescence including acidic β-galactosidase, PAI-1, and p16INK4a whereas controls did not. Onset of senescence was associated with decreased expression of neural stem cell markers including SOX2. Primary pilocytic astrocytoma cultures also showed induction of acidic β-galactosidase activity. Immunohistochemical examination of 66 pilocytic astrocytomas revealed p16INK4a immunoreactivity in the majority of cases, but patients with tumors negative for p16INK4a had significantly shorter overall survival.

Conclusions: BRAF activation in human neural stem and progenitor cells initially promotes clonogenic growth in soft agarose, suggesting partial cellular transformation, but oncogene-induced senescence subsequently limits proliferation. Induction of senescence by BRAF may help explain the low-grade pathobiology of pilocytic astrocytoma, whereas worse clinical outcomes associated with tumors lacking p16INK4a expression could reflect failure to induce senescence or an escape from oncogene-induced senescence. Clin Cancer Res; 17(11); 3590–9. ©2011 AACR.