bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Extruded and Pressureless‐Sintered Al2O3–SiCwComposite Rods: Fabrication, Structure, Electrical Behavior, and Elastic Modulus
Authors: Bertram Brian D. , Gerhardt Rosario A. , Schultz John W.
Published: July 2011

Ceramic composite rods of alumina filled with varying volume fractions of silicon carbide whiskers (SiCw) were made by extrusion and pressureless‐sintering. The electrical response was measured over a wide range of frequency (1 mHz–1.8 GHz) and was compared to that of disks made by dry‐pressing and pressureless‐sintering the same starting powder blends. Extrusion resulted in increased whisker alignment and electrical conductivity along the processing direction compared to dry‐pressing. Pressureless sintering resulted in anisotropic shrinkage and the rods having lower density (D), dc conductivity (σdc), andSiCw–SiCwconnection quality compared to fully dense hot‐pressed disks. Porosity (P = 1 − D) increased withSiCwloading and was linearly related to the rod elastic modulus, which was determined via sonic resonance.SiCwpercolation in the extruded rods required greaterSiCwloading, took place over a wider compositional range, and resulted in significantly decreased σdcfor the rods compared to hot‐pressed disks. The σdcof percolated rods having composition near the percolation threshold was sensitive to small changes in porosity and was correlated to the elastic modulus. The weak percolation transition was correlated to a gradual evolution of the complex permittivity spectra. AsSiCwcontent was increased, such spectra exhibited dc‐conductivity tails in the loss which grew in magnitude, and dielectric relaxations which grew in strength, shifted to lower frequency, spread out over wider frequency ranges, and seemed to evolve toward power‐law behavior for the dielectric constant.
Formation Mechanism of Intragranular Pores in Pb(Zr0.95Ti0.05)O3 Ferroelectric Ceramic
Authors: Nie Hengchang , Dong Xianlin , Chen Xuefeng , Wang Genshui , Gu Yan , He Hongliang , Liu Yusheng
Published: July 2011

Lead zirconate titanate ceramics with different contents of excess PbO, Zr/Ti ratios, and carbon nanotubes (CNTs) addition were fabricated by conventional solid‐state reaction sintering in air. The effect of PbO content, Zr/Ti ratio, and the addition of CNTs on the formation of intragranular pores in Pb(Zr0.95Ti0.05)O3 ferroelectric ceramics were studied by scanning electron microscopy measurements. It was found that the formation mechanism of porous‐grained ceramics is tightly associated with the stoichiometry of PbO and the addition of CNTs. The physical mechanism of the intragranular pore formation, that the insufficiency of PbO and the introduction of the CNTs decrease the densification process by inhibiting mass transportation during sintering stage, was tentatively proposed based on the sintering theory. The ferroelectric properties of the ceramics were characterized and correlated with their microstructures.
Glass‐Free LTCC Microwave Ceramic‐(La0.5Na0.5)1−x(Li0.5Nd0.5)xWO4
Authors: Bian Jian Jiang , Wang Liang
Published: July 2011

Ceramics (La0.5Na0.5)1−x(Nd0.5Li0.5)xWO4 (0.1 ≤ x ≤ 0.7) have been successfully designed as promising dielectric materials for LTCC applications. The structure and microstructure of the compounds were investigated by X‐ray powder diffraction (XRD) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) method. The microwave dielectric properties of the ceramics were studied with a network analyzer at the frequency of about 10–14 GHz. Continuous solid solutions (La0.5Na0.5)1−x(Nd0.5Li0.5)xWO4 (0.1 ≤ x ≤ 0.7) were formed as expected in the whole composition range. They could be sintered into dense ceramic (~96% theoretical density) at 800°C/2 h. All samples exhibit single Scheelite structure (I41/a) phase. The dielectric constant increased, whereas the Q × f value decreased continuously, with the increase of x. The τf value changed from negative to positive with the increase of x, and near zero value of −1.4 ppm/°C could be obtained at x = 0.3 composition. Combined excellent microwave dielectric properties with εr = 12.7, Q × f = 23 518 GHz and τf = −1.4 ppm/°C could be obtained when sintered at 800°C/2 h. The chemical compatibility of (La0.5Na0.5)0.7(Nd0.5Li0.5)0.3WO4 ceramic with silver (Ag) powders was also investigated. Some Ag substituted for Li and formed Li2WO4 impurity phase, although isolated Ag still existed in the co‐fired specimen (800°C/2 h).
Photophysical and Photocatalytic Properties of Zn3M2O8 (M = Nb, Ta)
Authors: Noh Tae Hoon , Cho In‐Sun , Lee Sangwook , Kim Dong Wook , Park Sangbaek , Seo Se Won , Lee Chan Woo , Hong Kug Sun
Published: July 2011

The Zn3M2O8 (M = Nb, Ta) compounds with layered crystal structures were prepared by a conventional solid‐state reaction method, and their electronic‐band structures, optical properties, and photocatalytic activities were investigated. The prepared compounds were characterized by X‐ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), UV–Vis diffuse reflectance, and Mott–Schottky measurement. The UV–Vis diffuse reflectance spectra revealed Zn3Nb2O8 and Zn3Ta2O8 exhibited band gaps of 4.1 and 4.5 eV, respectively. From the electronic‐band‐structure calculations using DFT method, it was found that the valence band in both compounds was constructed by the hybridization of Zn 3d and O 2p orbitals, whereas the conduction band was consisted of Nb 4d (Zn3Nb2O8) and Ta 5d (Zn3Ta2O8) orbitals. The photocatalytic activity of both compounds was examined by the measurement of the H2 production rate in an aqueous methanol solution under UV light irradiation. The Zn3Ta2O8 with a larger band gap exhibited higher activity than Zn3Nb2O8, which was attributed to its higher reduction potential resulting from the difference of its electronic‐band configuration.
Microwave and Infrared Dielectric Response of Temperature Stable (1−x)BaMoO4–xTiO2 Composite Ceramics
Authors: Guo Jing , Zhou Di , Wang Hong , Chen Yuehua , Zeng Yi , Xiang Feng , Wu Ying , Yao Xi
Published: July 2011

The (1−x)BaMoO4–xTiO2 (x = 0.0, 0.2, 0.3, 0.338, 0.4, 0.5, 0.66) ceramics were synthesized by the conventional mixed‐oxide process. The sintering behaviors, phase composition, chemical compatibility with silver, and microwave dielectric properties of pure (1−x)BaMoO4–xTiO2 ceramics and 0.662BaMoO4–0.338TiO2 ceramic with H3BO3–CuO addition were studied. Infrared reflectivity spectra of (1−x)BaMoO4–xTiO2 (0.2 ≤ x ≤ 0.4) composites were measured in the range of 50–4500 cm−1 at room temperature. X‐ray diffraction analysis reveals that scheelite BaMoO4 and rutile TiO2 phase coexist with each other at 1275°C and both of them do not react with silver (Ag) at 850°C. When the mole fraction of TiO2 (x value) is 0.4, a temperature stable microwave dielectric material is obtained, with εr = 13.8, Q × f = 40 500 GHz (f = 8.02 G), and τf = −6.13 ppm/°C. Complex dielectric spectra gained from the infrared spectra were extrapolated down to microwave range, and they were in good agreement with the measured microwave permittivity and dielectric losses. With 5 wt% H3BO3 and 1 wt% CuO addition, the 0.662BaMoO4–0.338TiO2 ceramics can be sintered well below 900°C, and possess good microwave dielectric properties with εr = 14, Q × f = 48 360 GHz, and τf  = +13.9 ppm/°C.
Fabrication of Spherical Silica Aerogel Granules from Water Glass by Ambient Pressure Drying
Authors: Hong Sun Ki , Yoon Mi Young , Hwang Hae Jin
Published: July 2011

Spherical silica aerogel granules were fabricated from water glass. A silicic acid solution was mixed with n‐hexane and a surfactant, which was used as a stabilizer, to produce silicic acid droplets in n‐hexane. Ammonia was used to gelate the silicic acid droplets and the silica hydrogel droplets were subsequently surface‐modified using a TMCS (trimethylchlorosilane)/n‐hexane solution followed by solvent exchange from water to n‐hexane. Silica wet gel droplets were dried at 80°C under ambient pressure. A perfect spherical silica granule between 230 and 123 μm in diameter was obtained and its size can be controlled by surfactant content. On the other hand, the surfactant had little effect on the particle size distribution and its uniformity lies between 0.332 and 0.454. The tapping density, pore volume, and BET surface area of the silica aerogel granule were ~0.08 g/cm3, 3.0 cm3/g, and 700 m2/g, respectively. FT‐IR spectrum analysis showed that the surface of the silica granules was modified by Si–CH3 groups, which allowed the aerogel to be hydrophobic.
Cardiac shock wave therapy: assessment of safety and new insights into mechanisms of tissue regeneration
Authors: Di Meglio Franca , Nurzynska Daria , Castaldo Clotilde , Miraglia Rita , Romano Veronica , De Angelis Antonella , Piegari Elena , Russo Sergio , Montagnani Stefania
Published: July 2011

Although low‐energy extracorporeal cardiac shock wave (ECSW) therapy represents an attractive non‐invasive treatment option for ischaemic heart disease, the precise mechanisms of its action and influence on the cardiac tissue remain obscure. The goal of this study was to evaluate the effects of SW application on cardiac function and structure. Four‐month‐old Fisher 344 rats were subjected to ECSW therapy. Echocardiographic measurements of cardiac function were performed at baseline and at 1 and 3 months after treatment. Signs of inflammation, apoptosis and fibrosis were evaluated by immunohistochemistry in the control and treated hearts. ECSW application did not provoke arrhythmia or increase the troponin‐I level. At all time points, the left ventricular ejection fraction and fractional shortening remained stable. Histological analysis revealed neither differences in the extracellular matrix collagen content nor the presence of fibrosis; similarly, there were no signs of inflammation. Moreover, a population of cardiac cells that responded eagerly to ECSW application in the adult heart was identified; c‐kit–positive, Ki67‐positive, orthochromatic cells, corresponding to cardiac primitive cells, were 2.65‐fold more numerous in the treated myocardium. In conclusion, non‐invasive ECSW therapy is a safe and effective way of activating cardiac stem cells and myocardial regeneration. Because many factors influence cellular turnover in the ischaemic myocardium during the course of ischaemic heart disease, cardiac remodelling, and heart failure progression, studies to identify the optimal treatment time are warranted.
Activators and inhibitors of the plasminogen system in Alzheimer’s disease
Authors: Barker Rachel , Kehoe Patrick G. , Love Seth
Published: July 2011

Accumulation and deposition of Aβ is one of the main neuropathological hallmarks of Alzheimer’s disease (AD) and impaired Aβ degradation may be one mechanism of accumulation. Plasmin is the key protease of the plasminogen system and can cleave Aβ. Plasmin is activated from plasminogen by tissue plasminogen activator (tPA) and urokinase‐type plasminogen activator (uPA). The activators are regulated by inhibitors which include plasminogen activator inhibitor‐1 (PAI‐1) and neuroserpin. Plasmin is also regulated by inhibitors including α2‐antiplasmin and α2‐macroglobulin. Here, we investigate the mRNA levels of the activators and inhibitors of the plasminogen system and the protein levels of tPA, neuroserpin and α2‐antiplasmin in post‐mortem AD and control brain tissue. Distribution of the activators and inhibitors in human brain sections was assessed by immunoperoxidase staining. mRNA measurements were made in 20 AD and 20 control brains by real‐time PCR. In an expanded cohort of 38 AD and 38 control brains tPA, neuroserpin and α2‐antiplasmin protein levels were measured by ELISA. The activators and inhibitors were present mainly in neurons and α2‐antiplasmin was also associated with Aβ plaques in AD brain tissue. tPA, uPA, PAI‐1 and α2‐antiplasmin mRNA were all significantly increased in AD compared to controls, as were tPA and α2‐antiplasmin protein, whereas neuroserpin mRNA and protein were significantly reduced. α2‐macroglobulin mRNA was not significantly altered in AD. The increases in tPA, uPA, PAI‐1 and α2‐antiplasmin may counteract each other so that plasmin activity is not significantly altered in AD, but increased tPA may also affect synaptic plasticity, excitotoxic neuronal death and apoptosis.
Orais and STIMs: physiological mechanisms and disease
Authors: Berna‐Erro A. , Woodard G. E. , Rosado J. A.
Published: July 2011

Introduction

Intracellular Ca2+stores and disease

   ‐   Mechanisms of intracellular Ca2+homeostasis

   ‐   Abnormal intracellular Ca2+homeostasis and disease

Sensing Ca2+stores

Importance of Orais and STIMs in tissues

Participation of Orai and STIM in human diseases

   ‐   Orai1‐deficient function and human disease

   ‐   STIM1‐deficient function and human disease

   ‐   Orai1 and STIM1 in human diabetic platelets

Orai and STIM mutant mouse as models of disease

   ‐   Sudden and perinatal mortality

   ‐   Immunodeficiency

   ‐   Autoimmune and inflammatory diseases

   ‐   Skeletal muscle

   ‐   Thrombosis and haemostasis

   ‐   Neuronal system

Emerging studies of Orai and STIM in cancer    and cell cycle

Concluding remarks

The stromal interaction molecules STIM1 and STIM2 are Ca2+sensors, mostly located in the endoplasmic reticulum, that detect changes in the intraluminal Ca2+concentration and communicate this information to plasma membrane store‐operated channels, including members of the Orai family, thus mediating store‐operated Ca2+entry (SOCE). Orai and STIM proteins are almost ubiquitously expressed in human cells, where SOCE has been reported to play a relevant functional role. The phenotype of patients bearing mutations in STIM and Orai proteins, together with models of STIM or Orai deficiency in mice, as well as other organisms such asDrosophila melanogaster, have provided compelling evidence on the relevant role of these proteins in cellular physiology and pathology. Orai1‐deficient patients suffer from severe immunodeficiency, congenital myopathy, chronic pulmonary disease, anhydrotic ectodermal dysplasia and defective dental enamel calcification. STIM1‐deficient patients showed similar abnormalities, as well as autoimmune disorders. This review summarizes the current evidence that identifies and explains diseases induced by disturbances in SOCE due to deficiencies or mutations in Orai and STIM proteins.
P2X7 purinoceptor alterations in dystrophic mdx mouse muscles: relationship to pathology and potential target for treatment
Authors: Young Christopher N. J. , Brutkowski Wojciech , Lien Chun‐Fu , Arkle Stephen , Lochmüller Hanns , Zabłocki Krzysztof , Górecki Dariusz C.
Published: July 2011

Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD) is a lethal inherited muscle disorder. Pathological characteristics of DMD skeletal muscles include, among others, abnormal Ca2+ homeostasis and cell signalling. Here, in the mdx mouse model of DMD, we demonstrate significant P2X7 receptor abnormalities in isolated primary muscle cells and cell lines and in dystrophic muscles in vivo. P2X7 mRNA expression in dystrophic muscles was significantly up‐regulated but without alterations of specific splice variant patterns. P2X7 protein was also up‐regulated and this was associated with altered function of P2X7 receptors producing increased responsiveness of cytoplasmic Ca2+ and extracellular signal‐regulated kinase (ERK) phosphorylation to purinergic stimulation and altered sensitivity to NAD. Ca2+ influx and ERK signalling were stimulated by ATP and BzATP, inhibited by specific P2X7 antagonists and insensitive to ivermectin, confirming P2X7 receptor involvement. Despite the presence of pannexin‐1, prolonged P2X7 activation did not trigger cell permeabilization to propidium iodide or Lucifer yellow. In dystrophic mice, in vivo treatment with the P2X7 antagonist Coomassie Brilliant Blue reduced the number of degeneration–regeneration cycles in mdx skeletal muscles. Altered P2X7 expression and function is thus an important feature in dystrophic mdx muscle and treatments aiming to inhibit P2X7 receptor might slow the progression of this disease.
Spontaneous re‐eruption of a permanent maxillary central incisor after 15 years of ankylosis – a case report
Authors: Schott Timm Cornelius , Engel Eva , Göz Gernot
Published: July 2011

Abstract –  Intrusion injuries are considered among the most severe forms of dental trauma, potentially leading to ankylosis as a late consequence. In 1991, a 7‐year‐old boy suffered a traumatic intrusion leading to an infraposition of tooth 21 along with its immobility. Based on the clinical findings, including bright‐sounding percussion testing, disappearance of the periodontal space and a failed attempt at orthodontic movement, a diagnosis of ankylosis was made. Following prosthetic restoration of the infrapositioned tooth, spontaneous re‐eruption occurred 15 years later. With the help of a partial multibracket appliance, the tooth could be adjusted to occlusal level and was then restored to the patient’s satisfaction. Radiographically, it was demonstrated that extrusion of the tooth had been accompanied by a significant gain in local alveolar bone volume. While a wait‐and‐see strategy cannot be recommended as a treatment option following ankylosis, considering that spontaneous re‐eruption after several years is an extremely rare finding, elucidating the mechanisms at work in spontaneous re‐eruption at a cellular level might create an opportunity for iatrogenic triggering of re‐eruption, thus paving the way to new forms of therapy.
Knowledge level of primary school teachers regarding traumatic dental injuries and their emergency management before and after receiving an informative leaflet
Authors: Arikan Volkan , Sönmez Hayriye
Published: July 2011

Abstract –  Aim: The aim of this study was to evaluate via a questionnaire the knowledge level of primary school teachers in Ankara, Turkey, regarding dental trauma; to inform them on the subject through a leaflet; and to evaluate the effectiveness of the leaflet by reapplying the questionnaire. Materials and methods: A questionnaire was distributed to 500 teachers in seven randomly selected primary schools. The questionnaire consisted of four different scenarios presented with photographs and a total of eight questions on crown fracture, lateral luxation, root fracture, and avulsion. After responding to the questionnaire, teachers were given a leaflet containing information about traumatic dental injuries and their emergency management. After 1 month, the same questionnaire was distributed, and the responses collected. Results: A total of 450 of 500 teachers responded to the questionnaire. Initial responses indicated the knowledge level of teachers to be quite low. Following the distribution of the information leaflet, the rate of correct answers increased for each of the individual questions, and the total scores for the questionnaire increased significantly (P = 0.0001). Conclusion: There is a clear need to inform teachers about traumatic dental injuries. The use of educational leaflets can be a successful and appropriate means of providing teachers with information.
Microscopic evaluation of induced tooth movement in traumatized teeth: an experimental study in rats
Authors: Pereira Alex Luiz Pozzobon , de Mendonça Marcos Rogério , Sonoda Celso Koogi , Bussato Mauro Carlos Agner , Cuoghi Osmar Aparecido , Fabre Aubrey Fernando
Published: July 2011

Abstract –  The clinical management of orthodontic patients with dental trauma before or during the treatment is mainly founded on clinical experience, expert opinions, and individual case reports. It is proposed in the literature that teeth sustaining mild trauma with minor damage to the periodontium (e.g. subluxation) should be followed for a period of time before being subjected to orthodontic forces. A minimum period of 3 months has been proposed. In this study, we used an animal model to investigate whether shorter observation periods could be established in case of mild trauma. The periradicular region of rat molars was examined microscopically to determine the biological events of tooth movement started 15 and 30 days after intentional subluxation using an experimental method to induce dentoalveolar trauma. Thirty adult male Wistar rats were assigned to 6 groups (n = 5): Group 1 (control – no trauma/orthodontic movement); Group 2: the animals received an orthodontic device and were sacrificed after 7 days; Groups 3 and 4: dentoalveolar trauma (subluxation) was experimentally induced by the application of an axial force of 900 cN on the occlusal surface of the maxillary right first molar, and the animals were sacrificed after 22 and 37 days, respectively; and Groups 5 and 6: 15 and 30 days, respectively, after force application, an orthodontic device was installed and the rats were sacrificed 7 days later. In G5 and G6, the periodontal ligament and pulp tissue were rich in cellular elements and blood vessels, the alveolar bone was preserved, and the root surface presented only very small areas of surface resorption (cementum), maintaining the characteristics of normality. In conclusion, the microscopic alterations in the gingival and periodontal tissues in response to an experimentally induced mild dentoalveolar trauma simulating subluxation were not sufficient to contraindicate starting the orthodontic movement 15 and 30 days after trauma.
A synchrotron X‐ray diffraction characterization of the structure of complexes formed between sphingomyelin and cerebroside
Authors: Quinn Peter J.
Published: July 2011

Specific lipid–lipid interactions are believed to be responsible for lateral domain formation in the lipid bilayer matrix of cell membranes. The miscibility of glucocerebroside and sphingomyelin extracted from biological tissues has been examined by synchrotron X‐ray powder diffraction methods. Fully hydrated binary mixtures of egg‐sphingomyelin codispersed with glucosylceramide rich in saturated C22 and C24 N‐acyl fatty acids were subjected to heating scans between 20 and 90 °C at 2 °C·min−1. X‐ray scattering intensity profiles were recorded at 1 °C intervals simultaneously in both small‐angle and wide‐angle scattering regions. A gel phase characterized by a single symmetric peak in the wide‐angle scattering region was transformed in all mixtures examined to a fluid phase at about 40 °C, similar to dispersions of pure egg‐sphingomyelin. A coexisting lamellar structure was identified at temperatures up to about 75 °C which was characterized by a broad Bragg reflection. The scattering intensity of this structure increased relative to the structure assigned as bilayers of pure sphingomyelin with increasing proportions of glucosylceramide in the mixture. The relationship between the scattering intensities of the two peaks and the relative mass fractions of the two lipids showed that the bilayers assigned to a glucosylceramide‐rich structure were composed of sphingomyelin and glucosylceramide in molar ratios of 1 : 1 and 2 : 1, respectively, at temperatures below and above the order–disorder phase transition temperature of the sphingomyelin (40 °C).
Geography and Population in Australia: A Historical Perspective
Authors: HUGO GRAEME
Published: July 2011

In contemporary Australia concerns about the future population have seen the creation of a federal ministry on population for the first time. One of the unique dimensions of the population (and immigration) debate in Australia compared with North America and Europe is a strong concern with the environmental implications of growth. The discourse around these issues has been strong in Australia from the colonial period and in the last century geographers have been among the social and physical scientists who have not only provided an empirical basis for the discussion but have been significant protagonists in the debate. This paper surveys the debates around Australia's population since the early years of European settlement and discusses the involvement of geographers. It argues that there is a great deal of continuity in the population debate and that it is important that the lessons of their history inform the contemporary discussion. There is both the need and opportunity for Australia to develop a coherent, holistic, sustainable population policy. It is important that contemporary geographers emulate their forebears and add their knowledge and expertise to the national discussion.
Assessing estrogen signaling aberrations in breast cancer risk using genetically engineered mouse models
Authors: Furth Priscilla A. , Cabrera M. Carla , Díaz‐Cruz Edgar S. , Millman Sarah , Nakles Rebecca E.
Published: July 2011

Aberrations in estrogen signaling increase breast cancer risk. Molecular mechanisms that impact breast cancer initiation, promotion, and progression can be investigated using genetically engineered mouse models. Increasing estrogen receptor alpha (ERα) expression levels twofold is sufficient to initiate and promote breast cancer progression. Initiation and promotion can be increased by p53 haploinsufficiency and by coexpressing the nuclear coactivators amplified in breast cancer 1 (AIB1) or the splice variant AIB1Δ3. Progression to invasive cancer is found with coexpression of these nuclear coactivators as well as following a single dose of 7,12‐dimethylbenz(a)anthracene. Loss of signal transducer and activator of transcription 5a reduces the prevalence of initiation and promotion but does not protect from invasive cancer development. Cyclin D1 loss completely interrupts mammary epithelial proliferation and survival when ERα is overexpressed. Loss of breast cancer gene 1 increases estrogen signaling and cooperates with ERα overexpression in initiation, promotion, and progression of mammary cancer.
Stem cell engineering: limitation, alternatives, and insight
Authors: Lim Jeong Mook , Lee Myungook , Lee Eun Ju , Gong Seung Pyo , Lee Seung Tae
Published: July 2011

The 21st century will see improvements in the quality of human life. The development of new therapeutic technologies will prevent prevalent diseases and enable recovery from currently incurable diseases. The development of cell and tissue replacement therapies using stem cells and their progenitors will accelerate the development of causative treatments. The effort expended thus far in developing cell therapies has revealed many technical limitations. Thus, we must explore conceptual changes in the feasibility of stem cell therapy. This paper introduces the current limitations to stem cell engineering and ways to overcome these limitations, which will provide new insight into their clinical application.
Obesity‐induced metabolic stresses in breast and colon cancer
Authors: Sung Mi‐Kyung , Yeon Jee‐Young , Park Shin‐Young , Park Jung Han Yoon , Choi Myung‐Sook
Published: July 2011

Epidemiological studies have suggested that excess body weight gain may be a major risk factor for colon and breast cancer. A positive energy balance creates metabolic stresses, including the excess production of reactive oxygen species (ROS), hyperinsulinemia, the elevated adipokine secretion, and increased gut permeability. Obesity is a risk factor for breast cancer in postmenopausal women, and overweight women are more likely to have poor outcomes. The higher circulating concentration of insulin‐like growth factor 1 (IGF‐1) in overweight and obese women is thought to be an important mediator to promote cell proliferation and survival via the activation of phosphatidylinositol 3‐kinase (PI3K)/Akt and mitogen‐activated protein kinase (MAPK)/p38 signaling pathways. In an animal model of colon carcinogenesis, overweight mice fed a high‐fat diet exhibited a greater number of colon tumors than lean animals. The increased abdominal fat was associated with higher concentrations of leptin, insulin, and IGF‐1, which possibly mediate tumor growth. These data suggest that the metabolic burden created by excess adiposity accelerates uncontrolled cell growth and survival, thereby increasing the risk of developing breast and colon cancer.
Metabolic approaches to overcoming chemoresistance in ovarian cancer
Authors: Suh Dong Hoon , Kim Mi‐Kyung , No Jae Hong , Chung Hyun Hoon , Song Yong Sang
Published: July 2011

The poor prognosis in the treatment of ovarian cancer is mainly attributed to chemoresistance. The development of new strategies is urgently necessary to overcome chemoresistance because of the low efficacy of the current standard chemotherapy in ovarian cancer. Metabolic alterations have been suggested to have a crucial role in cancer development. The key metabolic changes in cancer include aerobic glycolysis and macromolecular synthesis, causing antiapoptosis in cancer cells. Therefore, the manipulation of the metabolic derangement could be an effective strategy to overcome chemoresistance in ovarian cancer. In this review, we will discuss metabolic interventions as promising anticancer strategies in ovarian cancer, focusing on the glycolytic, mitochondrial apoptotic, and necrotic pathways. In addition, the role of p53 in relation to metabolic alterations in cancer will be mentioned.
The growing challenge of obesity and cancer: an inflammatory issue
Authors: Harvey Alison E. , Lashinger Laura M. , Hursting Stephen D.
Published: July 2011

The prevalence of obesity, an established risk factor for many cancers, has risen steadily for the past several decades in the United States and in many parts of the world. This review synthesizes the evidence on key biological mechanisms underlying the obesity–cancer link, with particular emphasis on the impact of energy balance modulation, such as diet‐induced obesity and calorie restriction, on growth factor signaling pathways and inflammatory processes. Particular attention is placed on the proinflammatory environment associated with the obese state, specifically highlighting the involvement of obesity‐associated hormones/growth factors in crosstalk between macrophages, adipocytes, and epithelial cells in many cancers. Understanding the contribution of obesity to growth factor signaling and chronic inflammation provides mechanistic targets for disrupting the obesity–cancer link.
Inflammation‐mediated obesity and insulin resistance as targets for nutraceuticals
Authors: Kim Myung‐Sunny , Lee Myeong Soo , Kown Dae Young
Published: July 2011

Obesity‐induced inflammation plays an important role in the development of insulin resistance, type 2 diabetes (T2D), and metabolic dysfunctions. Chronic activation of proinflammatory pathways within insulin target cells can lead to obesity‐related insulin resistance. The inflammatory mediators consist of immune cells, cytokines, adipokines, and inflammatory signaling molecules. Targeting obesity‐associated inflammation has been shown to protect experimental animals and human subjects from obesity‐induced insulin resistance. Modulation of the inflammatory responses associated with obesity may help prevent or improve obesity‐induced metabolic dysfunctions. In this review, we introduce the beneficial effects of nutraceuticals for targeting inflammation in the treatment of obesity‐induced insulin resistance and metabolic dysfunctions.
Combinatorial strategies employing nutraceuticals for cancer development
Authors: Shukla Yogeshwer , George Jasmine
Published: July 2011

Cancer is the second leading cause of death worldwide. Therefore, the fight against cancer is one of the most important areas of research in medicine, and one that possibly contributes to the increased interest in chemoprevention as an alternative approach to the control of cancer. Cancer prevention by nutraceuticals present in fruits and vegetables has received considerable attention because of their low cost and wide safety margin. A substantial amount of evidence from human, animal, and cell culture studies has shown cancer chemopreventive effects from these natural products. However, single‐agent intervention has failed to produce the expected outcome in clinical trials; therefore, combinations of nutraceuticals are gaining increasing popularity. Thus, combinations of nutraceuticals that mimic real‐life situations and are competent in targeting multiple targets with very little or virtually no toxicity are needed. In this review, we summarize the results of those studies that report combinatorial cancer chemopreventive action of various nutraceuticals and their combinations with anticancer drugs.
The role of carbon monoxide in metabolic disease
Authors: Joe Yeonsoo , Zheng Min , Kim Seul‐Ki , Kim Sena , Uddin Jamal MD , Min Tae Sun , Ryu Do Gon , Chung Hun Taeg
Published: July 2011

Metabolic disease is a complex disorder defined by various factors that increase the risk of cardiovascular disease and type 2 diabetes mellitus. In recent years, the incidence of chronic metabolic disease has dramatically increased throughout the world. These chronic metabolic diseases are associated with elevated inflammatory activities. In addition, endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress leads to metabolic syndrome. Inflammation and ER stress are linked in the context of metabolic homeostasis and disease. Carbon monoxide (CO), a reaction product of heme oxygenase‐1 (HO‐1), reduces oxidative stress and inflammatory response and protects cells from ER stress. CO has anti‐inflammatory effects via induction of HO‐1 expression and prevents ER stress–induced apoptosis by inhibiting the C/EBP homologous protein expression. In addition to its anti‐inflammatory effects and antiapoptotic effects, HO‐1 plays an important role in insulin release and glucose metabolism. In our study, inhalation of CO gas or CO‐releasing molecule injection ameliorates 30% fructose or methionine‐deficient‐ and choline‐deficient–diet‐induced hepatic steatosis. Therefore, CO can be studied in the search for potential therapeutic targets for metabolic diseases via inhibition of inflammatory response and ER stress.
Myricetin is a potent chemopreventive phytochemical in skin carcinogenesis
Authors: Kang Nam Joo , Jung Sung Keun , Lee Ki Won , Lee Hyong Joo
Published: July 2011

Myricetin is a widely distributed flavonol that is found in many plants, including tea, berries, fruits, vegetables, and medicinal herbs. Abundant sources provide interesting insights into the multiple mechanisms by which myricetin mediates chemopreventive effects on skin cancer. Myricetin strongly inhibited tumor promoter–induced neoplastic cell transformation by inhibiting MEK, JAK1, Akt, and MKK4 kinase activity directly. In a mouse skin model, myricetin attenuated the ultraviolet B (UVB)–induced COX‐2 expression and skin tumor formation by regulating Fyn. Myricetin‐mediated inactivation of Akt in the UVB response plays a role in regulating UVB‐induced carcinogenesis. Recently, myricetin was found to inhibit UVB‐induced angiogenesis by targeting PI3‐K in an SKH‐1 hairless mouse skin tumorigenesis model. Raf kinase is a critical target for myricetin in inhibiting the UVB‐induced formation of wrinkles and suppression of type I procollagen and collagen levels in mouse skin. Accumulated data suggest that myricetin acts as a promising agent for the chemoprevention of skin cancer.
Genetic Alterations in MicroRNAs in Medulloblastomas
Authors: Lv Sheng‐Qing , Kim Young‐Ho , Giulio Fiaschetti , Shalaby Tarek , Nobusawa Sumihito , Yang Hui , Zhou Zheng , Grotzer Michael , Ohgaki Hiroko
Published: July 2011

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) regulate a variety of cellular processes via the regulation of multiple target genes. We screened 48 medulloblastomas for mutation, deletion and amplification of nine miRNA genes that were selected on the basis of the presence of potential target sequences within the 3′‐untranslated region of the MYCC mRNA. Differential PCR revealed deletions in miR‐186 (15%), miR‐135a‐1 (33%), miR‐548d‐1 (42%), miR‐548d‐2 (21%) and miR‐512‐2 (33%) genes, whereas deletion or amplification was detected in miR‐135b (23%) and miR‐135a‐2 (15%). In miR‐33b, deletion, amplification or a mutation at the precursor miRNA were detected in 10% of medulloblastomas. Overall, 35/48 (73%) medulloblastomas had at least one alteration. Real‐time RT‐PCR revealed MYCC overexpression in 11 of 37 (30%) medulloblastomas, and there was a correlation between MYCC overexpression and miR‐512‐2 gene deletion (P = 0.0084). Antisense‐based knockdown of miR‐512‐5p (mature sequence of miR‐512‐2) resulted in significant upregulation of MYCC expression in HeLa and A549 cells, while forced overexpression of miR‐512‐2 in medulloblastoma/PNET cell lines DAOY, UW‐228‐2, PFSK resulted in the downregulation of MYCC protein. Furthermore, the results of luciferase reporter assays suggested that miR‐512‐2 targets theMYCCgene. These results suggest that alterations in the miRNA genes may be an alternative mechanism leading to MYCC overexpression in medulloblastomas.
Distinguishing types 1 and 2M von Willebrand disease
Authors: FAVALORO E. J. , FORSYTH C. , KOUTTS J.
Published: July 2011

Discrimination of types 1 and 2M von Willebrand disease (VWD) is problematic. Type 1 VWD represents a quantitative deficiency of von Willebrand factor and type 2M a qualitative disorder. 2M VWD is considered a potentially more serious bleeding disorder than type 1 VWD and may also require a differential management approach given the higher bleeding risk and that desmopressin may be less effective. We describe a case of 2M VWD ‘masquerading’ as type 1 and show how the differential diagnosis can be obtained using standard laboratory assays. The case was genetically confirmed as a 3943C>T mutation, leading to R1315C.
Laccase‐catalysed oxidations of naturally occurring phenols: from in vivo biosynthetic pathways to green synthetic applications
Authors: Jeon Jong‐Rok , Baldrian Petr , Murugesan Kumarasamy , Chang Yoon‐Seok
Published: July 2011

Laccases are oxidases that contain several copper atoms, and catalyse single‐electron oxidations of phenolic compounds with concomitant reduction of oxygen to water. The enzymes are particularly widespread in ligninolytic basidiomycetes, but also occur in certain prokaryotes, insects and plants. Depending on the species, laccases are involved in various biosynthetic processes contributing to carbon recycling in land ecosystems and the morphogenesis of biomatrices, wherein low‐molecular‐weight naturally occurring phenols serve as key enzyme substrates. Studies of these in vivo synthetic pathways have afforded new insights into fungal laccase applicability in green synthetic chemistry. Thus, we here review fungal laccase‐catalysed oxidations of naturally occurring phenols that are particularly relevant to the synthesis of fine organic chemicals, and we discuss how the discovered synthetic strategies mimic laccase‐involved in vivo pathways, thus enhancing the green nature of such reactions. Laccase‐catalysed in vivo processes yield several types of biopolymers, including those of cuticles, lignin, polyflavonoids, humus and the melanin pigments, using natural mono‐ or poly‐phenols as building blocks. The in vivo synthetic pathways involve either phenoxyl radical‐mediated coupling or cross‐linking reactions, and can be adapted to the design of in vitro oxidative processes involving fungal laccases in organic synthesis; the laccase substrates and the synthetic mechanisms reflect in vivo processes. Notably, such in vitro synthetic pathways can also reproduce physicochemical properties (e.g. those of chromophores, and radical‐scavenging, hydration and antimicrobial activities) found in natural biomaterials. Careful study of laccase‐associated in vivo metabolic pathways has been rewarded by the discovery of novel green applications for fungal laccases. This review comprehensively summarizes the available data on laccase‐catalysed biosynthetic pathways and associated applications in fine chemical syntheses.
Detection of parasitizing coccidia and determination of host crane species, sex and genotype by faecal DNA analysis
Authors: HONMA H. , SUYAMA Y. , NAKAI Y.
Published: July 2011

In Japan, the three main crane species are the endangered red‐crowned crane (Grus japonensis) inhabiting Hokkaido, the northernmost island of Japan; the vulnerable hooded crane (Grus monacha); and the vulnerable white‐naped crane (Grus vipio). Both the hooded and white‐naped cranes migrate in winter to Izumi in Kyushu, the southern island of Japan. In this study, we investigated the cranes and their coccidian parasites, through a targeted molecular approach using faecal DNA to develop a noninvasive method for infectious disease research. To determine the origin of noninvasively collected faecal samples, host species were identified by sequencing a region of approximately 470 bp of the mitochondrial 16S ribosomal RNA gene in the faecal DNA. Furthermore, to avoid sample redundancy, individual determination was performed by fragment analysis using microsatellite and sex‐linked markers. For microsatellite genotyping, previously reported markers and markers isolated in this study were examined, and seven loci for red‐crowned cranes, eight for hooded cranes and six for white‐naped cranes displayed polymorphisms. A low error rate was demonstrated by comparing microsatellite data generated from faecal DNA samples with that generated from feather DNA samples, indicating a high reliability. Polymerase chain reaction–based capillary electrophoresis (PCR‐CE), employing genetic markers in the second internal transcribed spacer (ITS2) of nuclear ribosomal DNA, was employed to detect crane coccidia. The sensitivity of detection of PCR‐CE using faecal DNA was inferior to that with traditional microscopy; however, our results suggest that PCR‐CE can depict crane coccidia diversity with higher resolution and it is a useful tool to characterize community composition of coccidia in detail.
OPTIMAL TIMING OF SALVAGE HARVEST IN RESPONSE TO A STOCHASTIC INFESTATION
Authors: SIMS CHARLES
Published: July 2011

Abstract Following a catastrophic disturbance, forest managers may choose to perform a salvage harvest to recoup timber losses. When the disturbance process evolves stochastically, a unique option value arises associated with the salvage harvest decision. This option value represents the value of postponing a salvage harvest to gain more information about the disturbance process. This paper uses a real options approach to determine how much of a forested area must be infested to trigger a salvage harvest when the forest provides both timber and nontimber values. Analytical results indicate slower rates of forest recovery will optimally delay a salvage harvest while forested areas with large timber values and where nontimber values are more sensitive to the presence of dead and dying trees should be harvested more immediately. The model is applied to a mountain pine beetle outbreak in Idaho's Sawtooth National Forest using readily available aerial detection survey data.
Successful treatment of equine sarcoids with cisplatin electrochemotherapy: A retrospective study of 48 cases
Authors: TAMZALI Y. , BORDE L. , ROLS M. P. , GOLZIO M. , LYAZRHI F. , TEISSIE J.
Published: July 2011

Reasons for performing study:Sarcoids are the commonest form of equine skin tumour. Several therapeutic measures have been described but none is considered to be universally effective. Electrochemotherapy (ECT) is a new anticancer therapy that utilises electrical field pulses to induce increased cell membrane permeability to antitumour hydrophilic drugs, such as cisplatin. The increased intracellular concentration of the drugs has a significant therapeutic benefit. The procedure has not been previously reported in a large number of horses.

Objective:To validate ECT as a novel alternative treatment for equine sarcoids.

Methods:A retrospective study evaluating the efficacy of cisplatin ECT in the treatment of equine sarcoids was performed. Electrochemotherapy treatments were applied under general anaesthesia at 2 week intervals with or without prior excision or debulking. Electric pulses were directly applied to the lesions following intra‐tumoural injections of an aqueous solution of cisplatin.

Results:One‐hundred‐and‐ninety‐four sarcoids on 34 horses, 2 ponies, 11 donkeys and one mule were treated with ECT. The 4 year nonrecurrence rate was 97.9% for animals (47/48) and 99.5% (193/194) for tumours. When ECT was used as a single treatment, a significant influence of tumour size (ρ= 0.55) on the number of treatments required for cure was shown. When prior surgery was performed, there was a significant influence (P<0.001) of the excision quality (complete or incomplete) and the healing mode (closed or open wound) on the number of treatments. The most common adverse effect was a slight oedematous reaction for lesions located on thin skin regions.

Conclusion and clinical relevance:Results demonstrate that ECT, with or without concurrent tumour debulking, is an effective alternative for treatment of equine sarcoids.
Distal border fragments and shape of the navicular bone: Radiological evaluation in lame horses and horses free from lameness
Authors: BIGGI M. , DYSON S.
Published: July 2011

Reasons for performing study: The significance of distal border fragments of the navicular bone is not well understood. There are also no objective data about changes in thickness and proximal/distal extension of the palmar cortex of the navicular bone.

Objectives: To describe the distribution of distal border fragments and their association with other radiological abnormalities of the navicular bone and describe the shape of the navicular bone in sound horses and horses with foot‐related lameness, including navicular pathology.

Methods: Sound horses had radiographs acquired as part of a prepurchase examination. Lame horses had forelimb lameness abolished by palmar nerve blocks performed at the base of the proximal sesamoid bones. Diagnosis was assigned prospectively based on results of local analgesia and all imaging findings. The thickness of the palmar cortex of the navicular bone and size of proximal/distal extensions were measured objectively. Other radiological abnormalities were evaluated subjectively and each navicular bone graded.

Results: Fifty‐five sound and 377 lame horses were included. All measurements were larger in lame compared with sound horses except the size of the distal extension of the palmar cortex. Fragments were observed in 3.6 and 8.7% of sound and lame horses respectively and in 24.1% of horses with a diagnosis of primary navicular pathology. There was an association between fragments and overall navicular bone grade, radiolucent areas at the angles of the distal border of the navicular bone and number and size of the synovial invaginations.

Conclusions and potential relevance: The palmar cortex of the navicular bone was thicker in lame compared with sound horses. Distal border fragments were most frequent in horses with navicular pathology. Evaluation of changes in shape of the navicular bone may also be important for recognition of pathological abnormalities of the bone.
‘Rallying around the flag’: Can an intergroup contact intervention promote national unity?
Authors: Al Ramiah Ananthi , Hewstone Miles
Published: July 2011

A longitudinal study evaluated the success of a contact‐based nation‐building intervention (the Malaysian National Service Programme) in promoting various facets of national unity. The study assessed how post‐test measures of quality of intergroup contact, outgroup evaluations, and levels of identification changed compared to their respective pre‐test levels, for both National Service and control group participants. The intervention did not lead to a worsening of any of the constructs related to intergroup relations, which is noteworthy given the novelty for many participants of mixing in a multi‐ethnic setting. Furthermore, all rater groups (Malays, Chinese, and Indians) maintained their ethnic identity, even in the presence of high levels of national identity, which we discuss with respect to past research on the effects of positive intergroup contact on minority group identification. However, the changes associated with the intervention yielded only small effect sizes, and, on the whole, National Service participants did not show significantly greater improvement than that experienced by control participants. We discuss the value of intergroup contact in this novel setting, considering various features of this programme that may have limited its effectiveness and discuss how such interventions can more successfully meet their goals.