bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Demographic History of Shorea curtisii (Dipterocarpaceae) Inferred from Chloroplast DNA Sequence Variations
Authors: Kamiya Koichi , Nanami Satoshi , Kenzo Tanaka , Yoneda Reiji , Diway Bibian , Chong Lucy , Azani Mohamad A. , Majid Nik M. , Lum Shawn K. Y. , Wong Khoon‐Meng , Harada Ko
Published: November 2011

We assessed the variability of chloroplast DNA sequences in populations of the dipterocarp forest tree, Shorea curtisii. This species is widely distributed in hill and coastal hill dipterocarp forests of the Malay Peninsula, whereas isolated populations are found in the coastal hills of north Borneo. Two chloroplast DNA regions (1555 bp of trnH‐psbA‐trnK and 925 bp of trnL‐trnF) were sequenced from 123 individuals collected from six Malay Peninsula and two Bornean populations. There were 15 chloroplast haplotypes derived from 16 polymorphic sites. A haplotype network revealed two distinct haplogroups that correlate with two geographic regions, the Malay Peninsula and Borneo. These two haplogroups differed by a number of mutations, and no haplotypes were shared between populations from the different geographic regions. This suggests an ancient diversification of these haplogroups, and that long‐distance seed dispersal was unlikely to have occurred during the Pleistocene when the Sunda Shelf was a contiguous landmass. Phylogenetic analysis of the haplotypes together with those found in other Shorea species showed that two haplogroups in S. curtisii appear in different positions of the phylogenetic tree. This could be explained by the persistence of ancestral polymorphisms or by ancient chloroplast capture. Low levels of genetic differentiation were found between populations within each geographic region. Signature of a bottleneck followed by demographic expansion was detected in the Malay Peninsula haplogroup. The presence of two distinct evolutionary lineages in the different regions suggests that they should be managed independently to conserve the major sources of genetic diversity in S. curtisii.
Determining reference conditions for nutrients, chlorophyll a and Secchi depth in Yungui Plateau ecoregion lakes, China
Authors: Huo Shouliang , Zan Fengyu , Chen Qi , Xi Beidou , Su Jing , Ji Danfeng , Xu Qigong
Published: November 2011

Establishing nutrient reference condition (baseline environmental condition) of lakes in ecoregion is a critical consideration in the development of scientifically defensible aquatic nutrient criteria. Three methods were applied to determine reference conditions in Yungui Plateau ecoregion lakes with respect to total phosphorus, total nitrogen, planktonic chlorophyll a (chl a) and Secchi depth. First, minimally developed lake/catchment units were identified based on existing geographical database and visual basin survey. Lakes in these catchments were considered minimally disturbed ‘reference lakes’. Second, the frequency distribution of all of the lake data presently available by each variable was plotted, and the lower 25th percentile was selected as the reference condition for each value. Third, median nutrient, chl a and Secchi depth values were determined for the best one‐third of lakes and applied as indicators of reference condition. The result of model prediction and data from historical record were used to test three techniques for determining reference condition. Reference conditions, as determined by these three methods, broadly agreed for all parameters. Overall, the data suggest that multiple methods can be used to determine reference condition, and that in Yungui lakes, reference condition corresponds to oligotrophic–mesotrophic status.
Publicity, punishment and protection: the role(s) of adverse publicity in consumer policy
Authors: Cartwright Peter
Published: November 2011

This paper argues that adverse publicity can fulfil two crucial roles in consumer protection law and policy. First, it can operate as an effective regulatory sanction in its own right; secondly it can play a vital role in helping consumers to exert market discipline by making informed choices about suppliers. However, there are significant risks to using adverse publicity to achieve these ends and it is imperative that any regulatory regime addresses these. Studying this topic now is particularly important for three main reasons. First, there has been widespread recognition that the regulatory offence, typically backed up with fines, is not the most effective form of sanction. More flexible, targeted and responsive options are required. Secondly, there is now ample evidence that regulated information, for example in the form of mandatory disclosure, frequently fails to help consumers to make fully informed choices. Finally, there are some highly significant very recent examples of enforcers using publicity in ways that can be viewed both as a sanction and as an information tool. The need to sanction responsively and to bolster consumer sovereignty demonstrates the potential for adverse publicity as a tool of consumer protection policy.
Older people’s perspectives on fall risk and fall prevention programs: a literature review
Authors: McMahon Siobhan , Talley Kristine M. , Wyman Jean F.
Published: November 2011

mcmahon s., talley k. & wyman j. (2011) Older people’s perspectives on fall risk and fall prevention programs: a literature review. International Journal of Older People Nursing6, 289–298 doi: 10.1111/j.1748‐3743.2011.00299.x

Despite evidence supporting fall prevention methods, fall‐related injury and death rates continue to rise. Understanding older people’s views on fall risk and prevention will help nurses and other health professionals in the design of fall prevention strategies that will broaden their scope, reach and adoption. This literature review synthesised 19 qualitative and quantitative studies examining older people’s perspectives about fall risk and prevention using a social‐ecological framework. Three themes emerged about fall risk; fearing vulnerability, maintaining autonomy and independence and interpreting risk. Four themes emerged about fall prevention programs: influence of participant and program characteristics, need for personal relevance and preference, maintaining autonomy and independence and increased support for and access to programs. Implications for practice include individual, interpersonal, organizational and community level considerations for improving fall prevention efforts.
Prostatic acid phosphatase is expressed in human prostate cancer bone metastases and promotes osteoblast differentiation
Authors: Kirschenbaum Alexander , Liu Xin‐Hua , Yao Shen , Leiter Amanda , Levine Alice C.
Published: November 2011

Prostate cancer (PCa) bone metastases are a major cause of morbidity and mortality. There are no effective therapies for PCa bone metastases that prolong survival. Prostatic acid phosphatase (PAP) is a secretory protein expressed by PCa cells. We demonstrate that PAP is strongly expressed in PCa bone metastases in 7/7 patients, while prostate‐specific antigen (PSA) is only weakly expressed. The human PCa cell line VCaP secretes PAP and induces an osteoblastic reaction in bone similar to that seen in human PCa bone metastases. Coculture of MC3T3 mouse preosteoblast cells with VCaP cells induces MC3T3 cell growth and differentiation as measured by alkaline phosphatase secretion, and this effect is inhibited by addition of the PAP‐inhibitor, l‐tartrate. Taken together, these data indicate that PAP is expressed in PCa bone metastases and may play a causal role in the osteoblastic phase of the disease.
Altered matrix at the chondro–osseous junction leads to defects in lymphopoiesis
Authors: Sweeney Elizabeth , Roberts Douglas , Jacenko Olena
Published: November 2011

The collagen X transgenic and null (ColX‐Tg/KO) mice have revealed a link between endochondral ossification (EO) and hematopoiesis, and thus serve as model systems to study hematopoietic niches. The altered collagen X function in ColX‐Tg/KO mice resulted not only in skeletal defects, which included changes in growth plate ultrastructure, altered localization of heparan sulfate proteoglycans (HSPG), and reduced trabecular bone, but also in hematopoietic defects, which included reduced B lymphocyte numbers throughout life without associated increases in B cell apoptosis. Consequently, the ColX‐Tg/KO mice exhibited diminished in vitro and in vivo immune responses. Moreover, reduced expression of several hematopoietic and B lymphopoietic cytokines were measured from ColX‐KO–derived hypertrophic chondrocyte and trabecular osteoblast cultures. Together, these data expand the current hematopoietic niche model by including the EO‐derived extracellular matrix, for example, the collagen X/HSPG network, as well as the EO‐derived hypertrophic chondrocytes and trabecular osteoblasts as hematopoietic signal mediating cells.
Dental pulp stem cells: osteogenic differentiation and gene expression
Authors: Mori Giorgio , Brunetti Giacomina , Oranger Angela , Carbone Claudia , Ballini Andrea , Muzio Lorenzo Lo , Colucci Silvia , Mori Claudio , Grassi Felice Roberto , Grano Maria
Published: November 2011

Dental pulp stem cells (DPSCs) are an adult stem cell population with high proliferative potential and the ability to differentiate in many cell types, and this has led scientists to consider these cells to be an alternative source of postnatal stem cells comparable to mesenchymal stem cells from bone marrow. In this work, we studied the osteoblastic phenotype developed by DPSCs cultured in osteogenic medium. In particular, we analyzed the expression of the typical osteoblast markers such as alkaline phosphatase, collagen type I, osteocalcin, osteopontin, as well as mineralized matrix production. Furthermore, the gene expression during DPSC differentiation into osteoblastic cells was studied by microarray technology. Using microarray and reverse transcriptase–polymerase chain reaction (RT‐PCR) analysis, we found that IGFBP‐5, JunB, and NURR1 genes are upregulated during the differentiation of DPSCs. These data indicate that opportunely differentiated DPSCs show a correct osteoblastic phenotype. Therefore, during the osteoblastic differentiation process, IGFBP‐5, JunB, and NURR1 gene expression is significantly increased.
A new simple approach for the determination of pyrimidine 5′‐nucleotidase activity in human erythrocytes using an ELISA reader
Authors: WARANG P. , KEDAR P. , GHOSH K. , COLAH R.
Published: November 2011

Introduction:  Pyrimidine 5′ nucleotidase type I (P5′N‐1) deficiency is the most frequent abnormality of cell nucleotide metabolism causing hereditary non spherocytic hemolytic anemia (HNSHA). The aim of this study was to develop a simple method of determination of P5′N‐1 activity in human erythrocytes using an ELISA reader

Methods:  Determination of P5′N‐1 activity is based on the liberation of inorganic phosphorus (Pi) after incubation with uridine monophosphate/cytidine monophosphate. Inorganic phosphorus (Pi), a product of the enzymatic reaction is directly quantitated from its ultraviolet absorbance. Purine/Pyrimidine nucleotides ratio (OD 260: OD 280) was also measured

Results:  P5′N‐1 deficient patients showed reduction in P5′N‐1 activity (Mean ± SD; 4.06 ± 0.66 using an ELISA reader & 6.25 ± 1.37 using a spectrophotometer) as compared to the normal control group (ELISA reader: 13.24 ± 3.42 & Spectrophotometer: 18.25 ± 3.20). Heterozygotes showed intermediate activity (ELISA reader: 6.06 ± 0.48 & Spectrophotometer: 8.06 ± 1.28), however they would have been missed on screening using the Purine/Pyrimidine nucleotides ratio

Conclusion:  Determination of P5′N‐1 activity by using an ELISA reader is a new, simple, less time consuming and reliable method. It also avoids the use of radioactive material or HPLC which is a significant advantage.
A single nucleotide polymorphism assay for the identification of unisexual Ambystoma Salamanders
Authors: GREENWALD KATHERINE R. , LISLE GIBBS H.
Published: November 2011

Unisexual (all female) salamanders in the genus Ambystoma are animals of variable ploidy (2N‐5N) that reproduce via a unique system of ‘leaky’ gynogenesis. As a result, these salamanders have a diverse array of nuclear genome combinations from up to five sexual species: the blue‐spotted (A. laterale), Jefferson (A. jeffersonianum), smallmouth (A. texanum), tiger (A. tigrinum) and streamside (A. barbouri) salamanders. Identifying the genome complement, or biotype, is a critical first step in addressing a broad range of ecological and evolutionary questions about these salamanders. Previous work relied upon genome‐related differences in allele size distributions for specific microsatellite loci, but overlap in these distributions among different genomes makes definitive identification and ploidy determination in unisexuals difficult or impossible. Here, we develop the first single nucleotide polymorphism assay for the identification of unisexual biotypes, based on species‐specific nucleotide polymorphisms in noncoding DNA loci. Tests with simulated and natural unisexual DNA samples show that this method can accurately identify genome complement and estimate ploidy, making this a valuable tool for assessing the genome composition of unisexual samples.
Roles of EBUS‐TBNA in non–small cell lung cancer
Authors: Chung Fu‐Tsai , Kuo Chih‐Hsi , Chen Hao‐Cheng , Feng Po‐Hao , Lin Shu‐Min , Yu Chih‐Ten , Liu Chien‐Ying , Wang Chih‐Wei , Kuo Han‐Pin
Published: November 2011

Background:  Endobronchial ultrasound‐guided transbronchial aspiration (EBUS‐TBNA) has the potential to improve nodal diagnosis and staging in non–small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). This study was performed to explore the roles of EBUS‐TBNA in NSCLC.

Methods:  From 2007 to 2009, 164 NSCLC patients were examined by EBUS‐TBNA. The patients were divided into a diagnosis group (n = 64) and a staging group (n = 100).

Results:  For all patients, the diagnostic sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value (PPV), negative predictive value (NPV), and accuracy were 92.3%, 100%, 100%, 88.2%, and 95.1%, respectively. In the diagnosis group, the diagnostic sensitivity, specificity, PPV, NPV, and accuracy were 89.7%, 100%, 100%, 86.2%, and 94.4%, respectively. Thirty five patients (54.7%) positive for malignancy as determined by EBUS‐TBNA avoided surgery. In the staging group, the diagnostic sensitivity, specificity, PPV, NPV, accuracy, and surgery avoidance rate were 93.8%, 100%, 100%, 89.7%, 96%, and 61%, respectively.

Conclusions:  EBUS‐TBNA is a feasible and effective tool for NSCLC diagnosis and staging that also reduces surgery rates. Patients with NSCLC should initially undergo the less invasive EBUS‐TBNA procedure for diagnosis and staging of NSCLC. However, negative findings must be confirmed by surgery.
Impact histories of angrites, eucrites, and their parent bodies
Authors: SCOTT Edward R. D. , BOTTKE William F.
Published: November 2011

Abstract– Eucrites, which are probably from 4 Vesta, and angrites are the two largest groups of basaltic meteorites from the asteroid belt. The parent body of the angrites is not known but it may have been comparable in size to Vesta as it retained basalts and had a core dynamo. Both bodies were melted early by 26Al and formed basalts a few Myr after they accreted. Despite these similarities, the impact histories of the angrites and eucrites are very different: angrites are very largely unshocked and none are breccias, whereas most eucrites are breccias and many are shocked. We attribute the lack of shocked and unbrecciated angrites to an impact, possibly at 4558 Myr ago—the radiometric age of the younger angrites—that extracted the angrites from their original parent body into smaller bodies. These bodies, which may have had a diameter of approximately 10 km, suffered much less impact damage than Vesta during the late heavy bombardment because small bodies retain shocked rocks less efficiently than large ones and because large bodies suffer near‐catastrophic impacts that deposit vastly more impact energy per kg of target. Our proposed history for the angrites is comparable to that proposed by Bogard and Garrison (2003) for the unbrecciated eucrites with Ar‐Ar ages of 4.48 Gyr and that for unbrecciated eucrites with anomalous oxygen isotopic compositions that did not come from Vesta. We infer that the original parent bodies of the angrites and the anomalous eucrites were lost from the belt when the giant planets migrated and the total mass of asteroids was severely depleted. Alternatively, their parent bodies may have formed in the terrestrial planet region and fragments of these bodies were scattered out to the primordial Main Belt as a consequence of terrestrial planet formation.
POSTNIKOV-STABILITY FOR COMPLEXES ON CURVES AND SURFACES
Authors: HEIN GEORG , PLOOG DAVID
Published: November 2011

We present a novel notion of stable objects in the derived category of coherent sheaves on a smooth projective variety. As one application we compactify a moduli space of stable bundles using genuine complexes.
ON REGULARITY OF SOLUTIONS TO AN INTEGRAL SYSTEM ASSOCIATED WITH BESSEL POTENTIALS
Authors: HAN XIAOLONG , LU GUOZHEN
Published: November 2011

In this paper, we study the regularity of positive solutions to an integral system associated with Bessel potentials. It is a natural extension of the work of Chen, Li, and Ma in which regularity of solutions to a system of Wolff potentials was proved by using the method of regularity lifting. We will fully use the decay estimate for the Bessel kernel both at the origin and the infinity. This integral system is of independent interest since it coincides with the famous Schrödinger type system of two semi-linear fractional partial differential equations.
Traditional Chinese Medicine Syndrome Distribution in Chronic Hepatitis B Populations: A Systematic Review
Authors: Zeng Xiao-Xi , Bian Zhao-Xiang , Wu Tai-Xiang , Fu Shu-Fei , Ziea Eric , Woon Wong Taam Chi
Published: November 2011

Many patients with chronic hepatitis B (CHB) seek help from traditional Chinese medicine (TCM). TCM treatment is based on syndrome differentiation. This study aimed to investigate the syndrome distribution in populations of CHB patients. The pre-specific search strategy was set, and 93 studies (20,106 participants) were identified by electronic and hand searches. The methodological quality of included studies was assessed. Data on syndrome distribution and correlations between syndromes and severity of CHB, were extracted and analyzed. Forty-seven syndromes were identified under 24 different syndrome diagnosis systems for CHB. The majority of included studies reported Liver Depression and Spleen Deficiency (LDSD) (52.54% of studies) or Liver-Gallbladder Dampness Heat (LGDH)/Dampness-Heat Obstructing Middle Energizer (DHME) (32.20%) as the major syndromes in CHB patients without cirrhosis. Pooled analysis revealed that LDSD and LGDH/DHME accounted for 61.19% of participants without cirrhosis. In addition, Liver-Kidney Yin Deficiency (LKYinD) (40.99%) and Spleen-Kidney Yang Deficiency (SKYangD) (40.43%) syndromes were common in patients with severe CHB. The percentage of patients with Blood Stasis syndrome increased as the disease progressed to cirrhosis (32.09%). To conclude, LDSD and LGDH/DHME syndromes are found in a significant majority of CHB patients, particularly in the early stages. LKYinD, SKYangD and Blood Stasis dominate in patients at more advanced stages. More epidemiological studies of high methodological quality on syndrome distribution in CHB and standardization of syndrome differentiation for CHB are required to confirm the trends indicated by the studies reviewed here; confirming these trends can increase the efficacy of treatment and give guidance to doctors.
Ultra-Performance Liquid Chromatography and Time-of-Flight Mass Spectrometry Analysis of Ginsenoside Metabolites in Human Plasma
Authors: Wang Chong-Zhi , Kim Karen E. , Du Guang-Jian , Qi Lian-Wen , Wen Xiao-Dong , Li Ping , Bauer Brent A. , Bissonnette Marc B. , Musch Mark W. , Chang Eugene B. , Yuan Chun-Su
Published: November 2011

American ginseng is a commonly used herbal medicine in the United States. When ginseng is taken orally, its active components, ginsenosides, are reportedly biotransformed by intestinal microbiota. Previous pharmacokinetic evaluations of ginseng in humans have focused on its parent constituents. However, the metabolites, especially those transformed by intestinal microbiota, have not been carefully studied. We used an ultra-performance liquid chromatography/time-of-flight mass spectrometry (UPLC/TOF-MS) method to determine 15 ginsenosides and/or metabolites and their bioavailability in humans. Six healthy human subjects received a single oral dose of 10 g of American ginseng root powder, after which samples of their blood were collected at 0, 2, 4, 7, 9 and 12 h for measurement of ginsenoside/metabolite levels in plasma. Ginsenosides Rb1, Rd, Rg2 and compound K (C-K) were detected in human plasma samples at different time points. The Rb1 concentration peak was 19.90 ± 5.43 ng/ml at 4 h. C-K was detected from 7 h to 12 h with 7.32 ± 1.35 ng/ml at 12 h. Since the last time point was at 12 h, C-K peak level was not observed. The areas under the concentration curves (AUC) from 0 to 12 h were 155.0 ± 19.5 ng⋅h/ml for Rb1 and 26.4 ± 6.4 ng⋅h/ml for C-K, respectively. The gradual decrease of Rb1 levels and the delayed increase in levels of C-K observed in human subjects supported previous reports that enteric microbiota played a key role in transforming Rb1 to C-K.
Scutellarin Attenuates Human-Neutrophil-Elastase-Induced Mucus Production by Inhibiting the PKC-ERK Signaling Pathwayin Vitroandin Vivo
Authors: Jiang De-Peng , Li Qi , Yang Jie , Perelman Juliy M. , Kolosov Victor P. , Zhou Xiang-Dong
Published: November 2011

The aim of this study was to investigate the influence of scutellarin on mucus production induced by human neutrophil elastase (HNE) and the possible in vitro and in vivo mechanisms. To this purpose, cells were incubated with saline, scutellarin or gefitinib for 60 min and exposed to 0.1 μM HNE for 24 h. After being pretreated respectively with saline, scutellarin or gefitinib, rats were challenged intratracheally with HNE by means of nebulization for 30 days. The expression of mucin (MUC) 5AC, protein kinase C (PKC), and extracellular signal-regulated kinase 1/2 (ERK1/2) was assessed by ELISA, RT-PCR or Western blotting. The results showed that scutellarin inhibited MUC5AC mRNA and protein expressions induced by HNE in a concentration-dependent manner in vitro. In the in vivo model, scutellarin significantly attenuated MUC5AC mRNA expression and goblet cell hyperplasia in rats treated with HNE for 30 days, as well as decreased the phosporylation of PKC and ERK1/2 compared to the HNE control group. Therefore, our study showed that scutellarin could prevent mucus hypersecretion by inhibiting the PKC-ERK signaling pathway. Inhalation scutellarin may be valuable in the treatment of chronic inflammatory lung disease.
In VitroActivity ofParis polyphyllaSmith Against Enterovirus 71 and Coxsackievirus B3 and Its Immune Modulation
Authors: Wang Yuan-Chuen , Yi Tsu-Yi , Lin Kuei-Hsiang
Published: November 2011

Enterovirus 71 (EV71) and coxsackievirus B3 (CVB3) have resulted in severe pathogenesis caused by the host's immune response, including the cytokine cascade. Paris polyphylla Smith is a folk medicinal plant in Asia traditionally prescribed for the reduction of pain and elimination of poisoning. In this study, we investigated the anti-EV71 and CVB3 activity of P. polyphylla Smith as well as its immune modulation. The IC50for the P. polyphylla Smith 95% ethanol extract against EV71 and CVB3 were 12.5–23% and 99–156% of that of ribavirin, a positive control. Prevention of viral infection, viral inactivation, and anti-viral replication effects against both EV71 and CVB3 were demonstrated by the extract, the anti-viral replication effect being dominant. The extract significantly increased IL-6 production in both EV71- and CVB3-infected cells. A high correlation was possibly demonstrated between the high amounts of IL-6 induction in the EV71 and CVB3-infected cells and the anti-viral replication activity of the extract. In conclusion, good anti-EV71 and CVB3 activity was observed in the P. polyphylla Smith 95% ethanol extract. The high amounts of IL-6 induction in the virus-infected cells played a key role in the anti-viral activity of the extract.
Royal Jelly Reduces Melanin Synthesis Through Down-Regulation of Tyrosinase Expression
Authors: Han Sang Mi , Yeo Joo Hong , Cho Yoon Hee , Pak Sok Cheon
Published: November 2011

For cosmetic reasons, the demand for effective and safe skin-whitening agents is high. Since the key enzyme in the melanin synthetic pathway is tyrosinase, many depigmenting agents in the treatment of hyperpigmentation act as tyrosinase inhibitors. In this study, we have investigated the hypo-pigmentary mechanism of royal jelly in a mouse melanocyte cell line, B16F1. Treatment of B16F1 cells with royal jelly markedly inhibited melanin biosynthesis in a dose-dependent manner. Decreased melanin content occurred through the decrease of tyrosinase activity. The mRNA levels of tyrosinase were also reduced by royal jelly. These results suggest that royal jelly reduces melanin synthesis by down-regulation of tyrosinase mRNA transcription and serves as a new candidate in the design of new skin-whitening or therapeutic agents.
STUDIES OF STRUCTURAL AND ELECTRICAL BEHAVIOR OF SAMARIUM BARIUM TUNGSTATE CERAMICS
Authors: SINGH N. K. , KUMAR PRITAM , ROY O. P. , CHOUDHARY R. N. P.
Published: November 2011

Polycrystalline samples of samarium barium tungstate [ Sm2(Ba0.5W0.5)2O7 : (SBW)] pyrochlore structure type oxides have been prepared by a solid-state reaction technique. X-ray diffraction (XRD) patterns of this compound at room temperature suggest the formation of a single phase compound with orthorhombic structure. Studies of the dielectric constant and dielectric loss of compound as a function of frequency (4 kHz–1 MHz) at room temperature, and as a function of temperature (23–350°C) at 20 and 50 kHz frequencies suggest that the compound does not have dielectric anomaly. The variation of dc resistivity suggests the semiconductor characteristics of the material. The value of activation energy (E a ~ 0.43 at 20 kHz and E a ~ 0.29 at 50 kHz) of the above mentioned compound has been calculated from the slope of the ln σac versus 1/T graph in the high temperature region (> 240°C). The low value of activation energy supports the superionic nature of the compounds in the high temperature region.
HIGH THERMAL STABILITY OF MICROWAVE DIELECTRIC PROPERTIES OFCaTi1-x(Nb1/2Fe1/2)xO3CERAMICS
Authors: COSTA A. D. S. BRUNO , ROMEU M. C. , COSTA R. C. S. , FERNANDES T. S. M. , AMARANTE F. W. DE O. , DA SILVA M. A. S. , SARAIVA G. D. , SOMBRA A. S. B.
Published: November 2011

This paper presents a study of the structure and microwave properties of [Formula: see text] substituted into the Ti4+site of calcium titanate ceramics. The structural and dielectric properties of solid solutions in CaTi1-x( Nb1/2Fe1/2)xO3, was done. The microwave dielectric properties of solid solutions in CaTi1-x( Nb1/2Fe1/2)xO3, (CNFTOX with x = 0.1 to x = 1) is discussed. The modified CaTiO3(CTO) ceramics were prepared by a new procedure in the solid-state method. A study of the variations of the ball-milling process was done. The calcinations were done at 900°C for 3 and 5 h respectively, and the sintering at 1100°C, for 3 h. The structural property studies of the ceramics were investigated by X-ray diffraction (XRD) and Raman spectroscopy. The X-ray analysis showed that all samples have an orthorhombic structure. The refinement analysis of all samples were also duly performed and discussed. The nine scattering bands centered at 183, 227, 247, 288, 338, 470, 490 and 805 cm-1were observed. Several peaks presented a small shift as a function of the x value. All Raman spectra in the studied samples showed a small band at 805 cm-1, which is a function of the x value. The dielectric permittivity and loss at microwave frequencies (MW) were investigated. For both calcination treatments (900°C for 3 and 5 h), the dielectric permittivity decreased with a decrease of the titanium content. Dielectric permittivity values in the range of 20 to 80 were obtained. It was also observed that a higher number of balls in the milling process contribute to the increase of the εrvalues. The CNFTO has an excellent microwave property at x = 0.6, with a temperature coefficient of resonant frequency (τf) near zero (τf= 2.8 ppm/°C).
CHARACTERIZATION OF LAYERED Na2-x-yLixKyTi3O7 CERAMICS BY DIELECTRIC-SPECTROSCOPIC INVESTIGATIONS
Authors: SHRIPAL  , SINGH RAKESH , GEETIKA  , SHUKLA RAVI K. , RAINA K. K.
Published: November 2011

In this paper, we present detailed investigations on the dielectric properties of Lithium (x = 0.10) and Potassium (y = 0.01, 0.02, 0.04, 0.05) mixed Sodium tri-titanate, Na 2-x-y Li x K y Ti 3 O 7 polycrystalline materials synthesized by solid-state reaction. The characteristics of the pelletized samples have been studied in the temperature range from 350 to 725 K and on the frequency in the range from 10 kHz to 1 MHz. The studies reveal that the chain structured Na 2-x-y Li x K y Ti 3 O 7 layered compound possesses electronic, ionic, dipolar, and space charge polarization mechanisms over the respective temperature regions in the entire temperature range of study.
Na/K RATIOS DEPENDENCE OF PIEZOELECTRIC AND FERROELECTRIC PROPERTIES IN (K1-xNax)NbO3 LEAD-FREE CERAMICS
Authors: DU HONGLIANG , QU SHAOBO , XU ZHUO , WEI XIAOYONG , ZHOU WANCHENG , ZHU DONGMEI , FA LUO
Published: November 2011

In order to clarify the Na/K ratios dependence of piezoelectric properties, ( K 1-x Na x) NbO 3 ceramics were prepared by conventional solid-state sintering at x = 0.4–0.6 with a smaller compositional interval (0.02 mol). The results demonstrate that the Na/K ratios have obvious effect on piezoelectric and ferroelectric properties of ( K 1-x Na x) NbO 3 ceramics. Piezoelectric and ferroelectric properties show the maximum (d33 = 147 pC/N, kp = 0.40, and Pr = 24 μC/cm2) at x = 0.54, which is not consistent with conventional viewpoint. The reasons should be attributed to the existence of a phase boundary at x = 0.54 mol, which is similar to the morphotropic phase boundary in Pb(Zr,Ti)O3 ceramics.
Upregulation of Scavenger Receptor BI by Hepatic Nuclear Factor 4αthrough a Peroxisome Proliferator-Activated Receptorγ-Dependent Mechanism in Liver
Authors: Zhang Yi , Shen Chen , Ai Ding , Xie Xuefen , Zhu Yi
Published: November 2011

Hepatic nuclear factor 4α(HNF4α) modulates the transcriptional activation of numerous metabolic genes in liver. In this study, gene-array analysis revealed that HNF4αoverexpression increased peroxisome proliferator-activated receptorγ(PPARγ) greatly in cultured rat primary hepatocytes. PPAR-response-element-driven reporter gene expression could be elevated by HNF4α. Bioinformatics analysis revealed a high-affinity HNF4αbinding site in the human PPARγ2 promoter andin vitroexperiments showed that this promoter could be transactivated by HNF4α. The presence of HNF4αon the promoter was then confirmed by ChIP assay.In vivo, hepatic overexpression of HNF4αdecreased cholesterol levels both in plasma and liver and several hepatic genes related to cholesterol metabolism, including scavenger receptor BI (SR-BI), were upregulated. The upregulation of SR-BI by HNF4αcould be inhibited by a PPARγantagonistin vitro. In conclusion, HNF4αregulates cholesterol metabolism in rat by modulating the expression of SR-BI in the liver, in which the upregulation of PPARγwas involved.
Assembly of Aluminum Nanosheets Formed by Hydrothermal Synthesis
Authors: Zhang Haijiao , Xu Huifang , Zhao Can
Published: November 2011

This work put forward a facile method for obtaining assembly of aluminum (Al) nanosheets on an Al substrate by hydrothermal process. The results revealed that the ammonia was crucial for forming the assembly of Al nanosheets. In addition, the morphology and microstructure of the as-prepared Al nanosheets were strongly dependent on the hydrothermal temperature. Further, the influence of surfactant on the morphology of Al nanostructures was discussed that the nanosheets could be obtained under CMC of Span-80. A mechanism for forming the assembly of Al nanostructures was proposed that the erosion process based on the vacancies and defects of Al film determined the morphologies of Al nanosheets according to the experimental results.
A Hybrid Differential Evolution and Tree Search Algorithm for the Job Shop Scheduling Problem
Authors: Zhang Rui , Wu Cheng
Published: November 2011

The job shop scheduling problem (JSSP) is a notoriously difficult problem in combinatorial optimization. In terms of the objective function, most existing research has been focused on the makespan criterion. However, in contemporary manufacturing systems, due‐date‐related performances are more important because they are essential for maintaining a high service reputation. Therefore, in this study we aim at minimizing the total weighted tardiness in JSSP. Considering the high complexity, a hybrid differential evolution (DE) algorithm is proposed for the problem. To enhance the overall search efficiency, a neighborhood property of the problem is discovered, and then a tree search procedure is designed and embedded into the DE framework. According to the extensive computational experiments, the proposed approach is efficient in solving the job shop scheduling problem with total weighted tardiness objective.
Growth and Characterization of High-Quality GaN Nanowires on PZnO and PGaN by Thermal Evaporation
Authors: Shekari L. , Abu Hassan H. , Thahab S. M. , Hassan Z.
Published: November 2011

In the current research, an easy and inexpensive method is used to synthesize highly crystalline gallium nitride (GaN) nanowires (NWs) on two different substrates [i.e., porous zinc oxide (PZnO) and porous gallium nitride (PGaN)] on Si (111) wafer by thermal evaporation without any catalyst. Microstructural studies by scanning electron microscopy and transmission electron microscope measurements reveal the role of the substrates in the nucleation and alignment of the GaN NWs. Further structural and optical characterizations were performed using high-resolution X-ray diffraction, energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy, and photoluminescence spectroscopy. Results indicate that the NWs have a single-crystal hexagonal GaN structure and growth direction in the (0001) plane. The quality and density of GaN NWs grown on different substrates are highly dependent on the lattice mismatch between the NWs and their substrates. Results indicate that NWs grown on PGaN have better quality and higher density compared to NWs on PZnO.
Heterogeneous Photodecolorization of Methyl Green Catalyzed by Fe(II)-o-Phenanthroline/Zeolite Y Nanocluster
Authors: Nezamzadeh-Ejhieh Alireza , Shahriari Elahe
Published: November 2011

The potential of Fe(II)-orthophenatrolin, as doped with synthetic zeolite Y nanocluster (Na-Y) via complexation process, after wet impregnation of parent zeolite with FeSO4aqueous solution, was studied as a photocatalyst in decolorization of Methyl Green (MG) under UV irradiation. The characterization of the synthesized zeolite nanocluster and the prepared catalyst was studied using X-ray powder diffraction (XRD), infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), thermal analysis, and SEM methods. The dye photodecolorization process was studied considering the influence of experimental parameters and it was observed that photoreactivity of the photocatalyst was varied with catalyst amount, initial dye concentration, pH of dye solution, temperature, and the presence of KBrO3. The optimal experimental parameters were obtained as follows: catalyst amount: 1 gL−1, dye concentration: 40 ppm, pH: 9, and active component value: 100 mg Fe(II)-orthophenatrolin per g catalyst. The reusability of the intended catalyst was also investigated. The degradation process obeyed first-order kinetics.
Chlamydia trachomatisInfection Control Programs: Lessons Learned and Implications for Vaccine Development
Authors: Chavez Jean M. , Vicetti Miguel Rodolfo D. , Cherpes Thomas L.
Published: November 2011

Chlamydia trachomatiscontrol efforts that enhance detection and treatment of infected women may paradoxically increase susceptibility of the population to infection. Conversely, these surveillance programs lower incidences of adverse sequelae elicited by genital tract infection (e.g., pelvic inflammatory disease and ectopic pregnancy), suggesting enhanced identification and eradication ofC. trachomatissimultaneously reduces pathogen-induced upper genital tract damage and abrogates formation of protective immune responses. In this paper, we detail findings fromC. trachomatisinfection control programs that increase our understanding of chlamydial immunoepidemiology and discuss their implications for prophylactic vaccine design.
Normal Criteria of Function Families Concerning Shared Values
Authors: Yuan Wenjun , Zhu Bing , Lin Jianming
Published: November 2011

We study the normality of families of meromorphic functions concerning shared values. We consider whether a family of meromorphic functions ℱ is normal in D, if, for every pair of functions f and g in ℱ, f′ − af−n and g′ − ag−n share the value b, where a and b are two finite complex numbers such that a ≠ 0, n is a positive integer. Some examples show that the conditions in our results are best possible.
Adolescent Weight Status and Self-Reported School Performance in South Korea
Authors: Do Young Kyung , Finkelstein Eric Andrew
Published: November 2011

Using a nationally representative sample of 142 783 middle school (13–15 years old) and high school (16–18 years old) students in South Korea, this study examined whether (1) overweight and obesity are more likely to be associated with lower self-reported school performance; (2) overweight and obese students are more likely to enrol in a vocational high school as opposed to a general high school; (3) the association between obesity and poorer self-reported school performance is mediated through body image stress and health status. We found that excess weight was negatively associated with self-reported school performance among middle and general high school students, and that obese students had a higher probability of being enrolled in a vocational over a general high school. We did not find strong evidence on the mediating role of body image stress and health status.
Simulating the Emergence and Survival of Mutations Using a Self Regulating Multitype Branching Processes
Authors: Mode Charles J. , Raj Towfique , Sleeman Candace K.
Published: November 2011

It is difficult for an experimenter to study the emergence and survival of mutations, because mutations are rare events so that large experimental population must be maintained to ensure a reasonable chance that a mutation will be observed. In his famous book, The Genetical Theory of Natural Selection, Sir R. A. Fisher introduced branching processes into evolutionary genetics as a framework for studying the emergence and survival of mutations in an evolving population. During the lifespan of Fisher, computer technology had not advanced to a point at which it became an effective tool for simulating the phenomenon of the emergence and survival of mutations, but given the wide availability of personal desktop and laptop computers, it is now possible and financially feasible for investigators to perform Monte Carlo Simulation experiments. In this paper all computer simulation experiments were carried out within a framework of self regulating multitype branching processes, which are part of a stochastic working paradigm. Emergence and survival of mutations could also be studied within a deterministic paradigm, which raises the issue as to what sense are predictions based on the stochastic and deterministic models are consistent. To come to grips with this issue, a technique was used such that a deterministic model could be embedded in a branching process so that the predictions of both the stochastic and deterministic compared based on the same assigned values of parameters.
Expression of Thymidine Phosphorylase in Lymph Nodes Involved with Mycosis Fungoides and Sézary Syndrome
Authors: Nie Xingcao , Bhat Rekha , Al-Saleem Essel Dulaimi , Vonderheid Eric C. , Hou J. Steve
Published: November 2011

Thymidine phosphorylase may be overexpressed in both neoplastic cells and tumor stromal cells in a variety of malignancies. Our study explores thymidine phosphorylase expression in lymph nodes (LNs) from patients with mycosis fungoides (MF) or Sézary syndrome (SS). In MF/SS, the LNs may have a pathologic diagnosis of either dermatopathic lymphadenopathy (LN-DL) or involvement by MF/SS (LN-MF). We performed immunohistochemical staining on MF/SS lymph nodes using antibodies to thymidine phosphorylase, CD68, CD21, CD3, and CD4. In both LN-DL and benign nodes, thymidine phosphorylase staining was noted only in macrophages, dendritic cells, and endothelial cells. In LN-MF, thymidine phosphorylase expression was also noted in subsets of intermediate to large neoplastic T cells. Concurrent CD68, CD21, CD3, and CD4 staining supported the above observations. Similar results were noted in the skin and in LN-MF with large cell transformation. Other T-cell lymphomas were also examined (total 7 cases); only enteropathy-type T-cell lymphoma (1 case) showed TP positivity in neoplastic T lymphocytes. We demonstrated that thymidine phosphorylase staining is present in neoplastic T cells in mycosis fungoides. The exact mechanism needs further investigation.
Dynamic Mechanical Properties of Oxide Films Formed on Metallic Surfaces as Measured Using a Tribological Approach at High Temperature
Authors: Oka Yoshinori Isomoto , Tsumura Toshinori
Published: November 2011

The surface degradation of metals in boiler tubes and turbines in high-temperature corrosive environments causes severe problems in fuel combustion power plant systems. High-temperature resistant materials have been recently developed using a thermal barrier coating (TBC) and high-chromium alloys. Oxide films or coatings formed on metal surfaces at high temperatures can sometimes decrease the corrosion rate. However, the damage to the material is often accelerated by the mechanical removal of corrosion products from the material surface. It is therefore very important to investigate the mechanical and adhesive properties of the oxide films or coatings on metal surfaces used in high-temperature environments. This paper introduces a tribological method that uses a single spherical projectile impact at high temperature to measure the mechanical and adhesive properties of oxide films formed on various metal surfaces. Impact tests were performed on the surfaces of oxide films after their growth in a high-temperature furnace, and the deformed or fractured surfaces were observed in order to measure the mechanical and adhesive properties. The mechanical and adhesive properties of an elastic modulus, fracture, and exfoliation stresses were measured using the impact method, and the results depended on the type of metal oxide films and on the high-temperature environment.
Mitochondria-Ros Crosstalk in the Control of Cell Death and Aging
Authors: Marchi Saverio , Giorgi Carlotta , Suski Jan M. , Agnoletto Chiara , Bononi Angela , Bonora Massimo , De Marchi Elena , Missiroli Sonia , Patergnani Simone , Poletti Federica , Rimessi Alessandro , Duszynski Jerzy , Wieckowski Mariusz R. , Pinton Paolo
Published: November 2011

Reactive oxygen species (ROS) are highly reactive molecules, mainly generated inside mitochondria that can oxidize DNA, proteins, and lipids. At physiological levels, ROS function as “redox messengers” in intracellular signalling and regulation, whereas excess ROS induce cell death by promoting the intrinsic apoptotic pathway. Recent work has pointed to a further role of ROS in activation of autophagy and their importance in the regulation of aging. This review will focus on mitochondria as producers and targets of ROS and will summarize different proteins that modulate the redox state of the cell. Moreover, the involvement of ROS and mitochondria in different molecular pathways controlling lifespan will be reported, pointing out the role of ROS as a “balance of power,” directing the cell towards life or death.
Uterine Prolapse: From Antiquity to Today
Authors: Downing Keith T.
Published: November 2011

Uterine prolapse is a condition that has likely affected women for all of time as it is documented in the oldest medical literature. By looking at the watershed moments in its recorded history we are able to appreciate the evolution of urogynecology and to gain perspective on the challenges faced by today's female pelvic medicine and reconstructive surgeons in their attempts to treat uterine and vaginal vault prolapse.
Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme Genotype and Peripheral Arterial Disease in Diabetic Patients
Authors: Tseng Chin-Hsiao , Tseng Farn-Hsuan , Chong Choon-Khim , Tseng Ching-Ping , Cheng Ju-Chien
Published: November 2011

We investigated the effect of traditional risk factors (hypertension, dyslipidemia and smoking) on the association between angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) gene insertion/deletion (I/D) polymorphism and peripheral arterial disease (PAD) in 945 (454 men and 491 women) Taiwanese type 2 diabetic patients with a mean age of 63.5 (SD: 11.4) years. Among them, 81 (31 men and 50 women) had PAD (ankle-brachial index <0.9). The adjusted odds ratios (95% confidence intervals) were 2.48 (1.18–5.21), 1.69 (1.00–2.85) and 1.64 (1.12–2.39), respectively, for recessive (DD versus II + ID), dominant (DD + ID versus II) and additive (II = 0, ID = 1 and DD = 2) models. While analyzing the interaction between DD and the individual risk factor of hypertension, smoking and dyslipidemia, patients with the risk factor and with DD had the highest risk compared to referent patients without the risk factor and with II/ID. The respective adjusted odds ratios were 5.41 (2.05–14.31), 7.38 (1.87–29.06) and 4.64 (1.70–12.64). We did not find a significant interaction between DD and any of the risk factors under multiplicative or additive scale. In conclusion, traditional risk factors (hypertension, smoking and dyslipidemia) play an important role in the association between ACE genotypes and PAD. Patients with DD genotype and traditional risk factors are at the highest risk.
CandidaBiofilms and the Host: Models and New Concepts for Eradication
Authors: Tournu Hélène , Van Dijck Patrick
Published: November 2011

Biofilms define mono- or multispecies communities embedded in a self-produced protective matrix, which is strongly attached to surfaces. They often are considered a general threat not only in industry but also in medicine. They constitute a permanent source of contamination, and they can disturb the proper usage of the material onto which they develop. This paper relates to some of the most recent approaches that have been elaborated to eradicateCandidabiofilms, based on the vast effort put in ever-improving models of biofilm formationin vitroandin vivo, including novel flow systems, high-throughput techniques and mucosal models. Mixed biofilms, sustaining antagonist or beneficial cooperation between species, and their interplay with the host immune system are also prevalent topics. Alternative strategies against biofilms include the lock therapy and immunotherapy approaches, and material coating and improvements. The host-biofilm interactions are also discussed, together with their potential applications inCandidabiofilm elimination.