bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Differentiating between Steller sea lion (Eumetopias jubatus) and northern fur seal (Callorhinus ursinus) scats through analysis of faecal DNA
Authors: WAITE JASON N. , WAITS LISETTE P. , BOZZA MARY , ANDREWS RUSSEL D.
Published: May 2010

We describe a method to determine the species of pinniped from faeces collected from sympatric Steller sea lion (Eumetopias jubatus) and northern fur seal (Callorhinus ursinus) rookeries using newly developed species‐specific primers that amplify a 667–669‐base pair segment from the mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) cytochrome B (cytB) gene region. The primers yielded the correct species in 100% of tissue samples from 10 known animals and 100% of faecal samples from 13 known animals. Species could be identified unequivocally for 87.7% of faecal samples from 122 unknown individuals. The ability to differentiate between scats of sympatrically breeding Steller sea lions and northern fur seals will contribute to the range‐wide knowledge of the foraging strategies of both species as well as allow researchers to examine the niche partitioning and potential resource competition between the two predators.
T cell migration into the central nervous system during health and disease: Different molecular keys allow access to different central nervous system compartments
Authors: Engelhardt Britta
Published: May 2010

Central nervous system (CNS) homeostasis is a prerequisite for the proper communication of neuronal cells. To this end, the endothelial blood–brain barrier (BBB) and the epithelial blood–cerebrospinal fluid barrier (BCSFB) tightly seal off the CNS from the continuously changing milieu within the blood stream. It is now well established that despite the presence of these barriers, the CNS is subject to immune surveillance and immune mediated pathogenic events. Numerous studies in an animal model for multiple sclerosis, experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE), have elucidated that memory T cells can cross the non‐inflamed BBB or BCSFB using specific molecular keys and gain access to the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) drained ventricular, subarachnoidal and perivascular spaces. If these pioneer T cells encounter their specific antigen on antigen presenting cells strategically localized immediately behind the brain barriers, reactivation of the T cells will trigger a local inflammatory response, leading to the stimulation of the BBB. The activated BBB will then provide novel traffic signals allowing for the entry of large numbers of circulating inflammatory cells into the perivascular spaces and finally across the glia limitans into the CNS parenchyma, where they progress to initiate tissue injury. (Clin. Exp. Neuroimmunol. doi: 10.1111/j.1759‐1961.2010.00009.x, May 2010)
The Institutional Determinants of the Path to Political Reform in Hong Kong SAR
Authors: Wan Charn Wing
Published: May 2010

The political economy of political reform in Hong Kong is characterized by the persistent contradictory imperatives and conflicts of ideology between the pro‐democracy camp and the Beijing‐backed Hong Kong government. On December 29, 2007, the Standing Committee of the National People's Congress of the People's Republic of China ruled out universal suffrage for both the selection of the Chief Executive of Hong Kong and the election of the legislative councilors before 2016 and stated that the earliest possible dates for the election of the Chief Executive and the legislative councilors would be 2017 and 2020, respectively. This article suggests that the constitutional institutions (formal and informal) that have evolved from Hong Kong's colonial past restrain the sets of choices for its political reform, and that unless the pro‐democracy camp falls in line with Chinese central government's positions, the status quo in the political system will remain for years to come.
Going Against the Tide: Sabah and the 2008 Malaysian General Election
Authors: Chin James , Puyok Arnold
Published: May 2010

In the 2008 Malaysian general election, the ruling Barisan Nasional (BN or National Front) lost its two‐thirds majority for the first time since independence. BN performed poorly in West Malaysia (Peninsular Malaysia) but was saved by a strong showing in the East Malaysian states of Sabah and Sarawak. Understandably, these two states are expected to play a key role in helping BN stay in power in the next general elections. In this article, we shall examine the reasons why BN did well in Sabah. In the main, Sabah politics is still primarily driven by local factors due to its unique history and geographical location. As such, national issues, such as the Anwar Ibrahim sodomy case, do not connect with voters in Sabah.
The Role of Government in the Expansion of the Contingent Workforce
Authors: Kim Jiyoung
Published: May 2010

This article examines the government's role in expansion of the contingent workforce in South Korea. I argue that the government played a determining role in transforming the South Korean labor market and increasing the number of contingent workers. Through the active adoption of a flexible labor market policy as a part of its globalization movement, the South Korean government directly contributed to a rise in contingent work. Also, the South Korean government indirectly supported the expanded use of non‐regular workers through its tacit approval of companies' illegal use of contingent workers. The existing literature on contingent workers has focused primarily on economic factors. This case study highlights the need to include the role of government as an important cause of the growth of the contingent workforce.
The Connections Goal Area in Spanish Community Service‐Learning: Possibilities and Limitations
Authors: Abbott Annie , Lear Darcy
Published: May 2010

Abstract: Using the National Standards' 5 C's as a framework, the authors examine student success in Spanish community service‐learning at making connections across academic disciplines, to information and viewpoints that they encounter in the community, and to concrete social action. We use data from students, instructors, and community partners involved in a community service‐learning Spanish course to present three cases: a student who made connections and took action, another who could not make connections beyond her own experience vis‐à‐vis the concept of poverty, and one representative case of a student who excelled as a student in every traditional context yet did not take action.
The Development of Oral Proficiency During a Semester in Germany
Authors: Lindseth Martina U.
Published: May 2010

Abstract: This study measures and analyzes improvements in students' oral proficiency during a study abroad semester in Germany. Oral proficiency interviews were conducted with participants before and after the program during three consecutive years. All interviews were assigned official ratings. Usage of two specific grammar structures associated with the Advanced level was also tracked. Before the program, most students were at Intermediate Low, even those who had completed 5th‐semester German courses. Although 80% completed the program with improved proficiency ratings, very few reached the Advanced level. Internal analysis of speech samples did reveal that the post‐program Intermediate Mid performances were much closer to the Advanced level than pre‐program performances with the same rating. The study concludes with an assessment of curricular implications for post‐program courses.
Advanced Heritage Learners of Spanish: A Sociolinguistic Profile for Pedagogical Purposes
Authors: Alarcón Irma
Published: May 2010

Abstract: This article reports on an extensive survey administered to advanced heritage language (HL) learners to examine their language behaviors, attitudes, and backgrounds. To date, there have been no detailed categorizations of advanced HL learners to guide classroom instruction and curriculum design. Thus the present study is a first attempt to fill this gap by providing a sociolinguistic profile of these speakers, including their identifying characteristics, linguistic needs, and similarities and differences with lower‐proficiency speakers. Survey responses indicate that advanced HL learners possess both productive and receptive skills in the HL, always use Spanish at home, are fluent speakers of a standard variety, already have basic academic skills in Spanish, and are therefore primarily interested in perfecting their academic writing skills.
Preparation and Characterization of Novel Bacterial Cellulose/Gelatin Scaffold for Tissue Regeneration Using Bacterial Cellulose Hydrogel
Authors: Cai Zhijiang , Kim Jaehwan
Published: May 2010

Bacterial cellulose (BC) and gelatin are well-known biomaterials. The novel bacterial cellulose/gelatin composite scaffolds were prepared using aqueous gelatin solution and bacterial cellulose excreted by Acetobacter xylinum. The prepared bacterial cellulose/gelatin scaffolds were characterized by scanning electron microscopy, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction, mechanical test, swelling, and thermal studies. The morphology of these bacterial cellulose/gelatin scaffolds indicated that the gelatin molecules could penetrate well between the individual nanofibers of the bacterial cellulose. With the incorporation of gelatin in the bacterial cellulose, the crystallinity index tended to decrease while the thermal stability was improved. After the incorporation of gelatin in the bacterial cellulose, Young’s modulus of the composite was increased from 3.7 GPa to 3.9 GPa, while the tensile strength and strain at break point were decreased from 170 MPa (7.5%) to 114 MPa (4%), respectively. The swelling behavior test indicated that the water uptake capacity of the composite was only half of the pure bacterial cellulose. Cell adhesion studies were carried out using 3T3 fibroblast cells. The cells incubated with BC/gelatin scaffolds for 48 h were capable of forming cell adhesion and proliferation. It showed much better biocompatibility than pure bacterial cellulose. So, the prepared BC/gelatin scaffolds are bioactive and may be suitable for cell adhesion/attachment, suggesting that these scaffolds can be used for wound dressing or tissue engineering scaffolds. Therefore, these novel BC/gelatin scaffolds are useful for biomedical applications.
A Game-Theoretic Model of Collaboration in Engineering Design
Authors: Takai Shun
Published: May 2010

This paper proposes a game-theoretic model that provides insights into conditions when two engineers collaborate on a design project which has both team and individual components. Collaboration of engineers with diverse technical backgrounds, such as those found in cross-functional teams, has been addressed as a key for successful product development. Similarly, the benefit of a team-based-project class is increasingly emphasized in curriculum development. In a single product design, a team project (in which two engineers work together) may be the design of a product base, and an individual project (in which engineers work individually) may be the design of chunks or modules assembled to the base. In a product family design, a team project may be the design of a product platform and an individual project may be the design of modules assembled to the platform that creates product variants. The proposed model assumes that the engineers receive the same evaluation on their team project (whether they actually contribute to the project or not), and independent evaluations on their individual projects. The proposed model identifies conditions that lead to collaboration of two engineers in the team project, which maximizes product performance. The insights obtained from the model and possible implications in design project and curriculum development are discussed.
Demonstration of Cancer Cell Migration Using a Novel Microfluidic Device
Authors: Rao Smitha M. N. , Lin Victor K. , Tata Uday , Raj Ganesh V. , Hsieh Jer-Tsong , Nguyen Kytai , Chiao J.-C.
Published: May 2010

Migration of cancer cells from the primary organ site via the bloodstream to distant sites is critical to the development of malignant metastasis and is in part determined by soluble host factors in the serum. Conventional Boyden chamber assays to evaluate cell motility require high volumes of reagents and are impractical for high-throughput analysis. We have designed and evaluated a poly-dimethylsiloxane (PDMS) microfluidic device in order to systematically study cancer cell migration. Photolithography and soft lithography processes were used to fabricate the PDMS devices from a negative photoresist (SU-8) mold. The device provides two separate identical chambers that are interconnected by an array of identical narrow channels, 10 μm high, 25 μm wide, and 1000 μm long. One chamber is seeded with cancer cells whose migration characteristics are to be evaluated, while the other chamber contains media with chemoattractants toward which the cancer cells migrate. In this microfluidic chamber model, the migration of cancer cells within and across the microfluidic channels over a prescribed time was quantified using time-lapse photographs. The microfluidic chamber is a cost-effective platform that uses small volumes of reagents, can maintain stable chemokine gradients, allow real-time quantitative study of cancer cell migration, and provide information about cellular dynamics and biomechanical analysis. This work demonstrated the utility of the microfluidic device as a platform to study cancer cell migration as well as the potential applications in the identification of specific chemokine agents and development of drugs targeting cell migration.
An Approach to Automate and Optimize Concept Generation of Sheet Metal Parts by Topological and Parametric Decoupling
Authors: Patel Jay , Campbell Matthew I.
Published: May 2010

This paper describes an approach to automate the design for sheet metal parts that satisfy multiple objective functions such as material cost and manufacturability. Unlike commercial software tools such as PRO/SHEETMETAL, which aids the user in finalizing and determining the sequence of manufacturing operations for a specified component, our approach starts with spatial constraints in order to create the component geometries and helps the designer design. While there is an infinite set of parts that can feasibly be generated with sheet metal, it is difficult to define this space systematically. To solve this problem, we have created 108 design rules that have been developed for five basic sheet metal operations: slitting, notching, shearing, bending, and punching. A recipe of the operations for a final optimal design is then presented to the manufacturing engineers thus saving them time and cost. The technique revealed in this paper represents candidate solutions as a graph of nodes and arcs where each node is a rectangular patch of sheet metal, and modifications are progressively made to the sheet to maintain the parts manufacturability. This paper also discusses a new topological optimization technique to solve graph-based engineering design problems by decoupling parameters and topology changes. This paper presents topological and parametric tune and prune ((TP)2) as a topology optimization method that has been developed specifically for domains representable by a graph grammar schema. The method is stochastic and incorporates distinct phases for modifying the topologies and modifying parameters stored within topologies. Thus far, with abovementioned sheet metal problem, (TP)2 had proven better than genetic algorithm in terms of the quality of solutions and time taken to acquire them.
A Unified Framework for Integrated Optimization Under Uncertainty
Authors: Wang Zhonglai , Huang Hong-Zhong , Liu Yu
Published: May 2010

Reliability and robustness are two main attributes of design under uncertainty. Hence, it is necessary to combine reliability-based design and robust design at the design stage. In this paper, a unified framework for integrating reliability-based design and robust design is proposed. In the proposed framework, the probabilistic objective function is converted to a deterministic objective function by the Taylor series expansion or inverse reliability strategy with accounting for the probabilistic characteristic of the objective function. Therefore, with this unified framework, there is no need to deal with a multiobjective optimization problem to integrate reliability-based design and robust design any more. The probabilistic constraints are converted to deterministic constraints with inverse reliability strategy at the same time. In order to solve the unified framework, an improved sequential optimization and reliability assessment method is proposed. Three examples are given to illustrate the benefits of the proposed methods.
Integrated Double-Sided Neural Sensor With Dry-Etch BCB
Authors: Kim Bruce , Zhu Haixin , He Jiping
Published: May 2010

This paper presents a novel structure for a neural sensor using a surface micromachining technique with dry-etch benzocyclobutene selected as the substrate and packaging material. The finished device has intracortical recording sites on both sides and epidural recording sites on the front. The design doubled the total channel number of recording sites compared with the conventional single-sided electrode structure. The developed process shows reliable, high fabrication yield, and preliminary fabrication and impedance test results suggest that this newly developed neural sensor could improve the performance and efficiency of neural recording.
Heterostructured IrO2/Au Nanowire Electrodes and Unit Recordings From Hippocampal Rat Brain
Authors: Yoon Hargsoon , Hankins Phillip , Oh Sechang , Harbaugh Robert E. , Varadan Vijay K.
Published: May 2010

This research presents the development of neural recording electrodes with high sensitivity using nanotechnology and the evaluation of their electrochemical sensing properties. Neural electrodes with heterostructured IrO2/Au nanowires have been fabricated on a flexible needle probe using a polyimide substrate. The outer, functional layer of the nanoelectrodes was made with a thin iridium oxide layer on vertically aligned Au nanowire cores providing low impedance and high charge storage capacity, which can enhance neural sensing and stimulating efficiency. Acute recording from the hippocampus of a rat brain has confirmed the neural sensing functionality of the heterostructured nanowire electrodes.
Metamodeling for High Dimensional Simulation-Based Design Problems
Authors: Shan Songqing , Wang G. Gary
Published: May 2010

Computational tools such as finite element analysis and simulation are widely used in engineering, but they are mostly used for design analysis and validation. If these tools can be integrated for design optimization, it will undoubtedly enhance a manufacturer’s competitiveness. Such integration, however, faces three main challenges: (1) high computational expense of simulation, (2) the simulation process being a black-box function, and (3) design problems being high dimensional. In the past two decades, metamodeling has been intensively developed to deal with expensive black-box functions, and has achieved success for low dimensional design problems. But when high dimensionality is also present in design, which is often found in practice, there lacks of a practical method to deal with the so-called high dimensional, expensive, and black-box (HEB) problems. This paper proposes the first metamodel of its kind to tackle the HEB problem. This paper integrates the radial basis function with high dimensional model representation into a new model, RBF-HDMR. The developed RBF-HDMR model offers an explicit function expression, and can reveal (1) the contribution of each design variable, (2) inherent linearity/nonlinearity with respect to input variables, and (3) correlation relationships among input variables. An accompanying algorithm to construct the RBF-HDMR has also been developed. The model and the algorithm fundamentally change the exponentially growing computation cost to be polynomial. Testing and comparison confirm the efficiency and capability of RBF-HDMR for HEB problems.
Electron-beam exposure mechanisms in hydrogen silsesquioxane investigated by vibrational spectroscopy and in situ electron-beam-induced desorption
Authors: Olynick D. L. , Cord B. , Schipotinin A. , Ogletree D. F. , Schuck P. J.
Published: May 2010

Hydrogen silsesquioxane (HSQ) is used as a high-resolution resist with resolution down below 10 nm half-pitch. This material or materials with related functionalities could have widespread impact in nanolithography and nanoscience applications if the exposure mechanism was understood and instabilities controlled. Here we have directly investigated the exposure mechanism using vibrational spectroscopy (both Raman and Fourier-transform infrared) and electron-beam-induced desorption spectroscopy (EBID). In the non-networked HSQ system, silicon atoms sit at the corners of a cubic structure. Each silicon is bonded to a hydrogen atom and bridges three oxygen atoms (formula: HSiO3/2). For the first time, we have shown, via changes in the SiH2 peak at ∼2200 cm−1 in the Raman spectra and the release of SiHx products in EBID, that electron-beam-exposed material cross-links via a redistribution reaction. In addition, we observe the release of significantly more H2 than SiH2 during EBID, which is indicative of additional reaction mechanisms. Furthermore, we compare the behavior of HSQ in response to both thermally and electron-beam induced reactions.
Novel palladium(II) selective membrane electrode based on 4-[(5-mercapto-1,3,4-thiadiazol-2-ylimino)methyl]benzene-1,3-diol
Authors: Mohammadi Moslem , Khodadadian Mehdi , Rofouei Mohammad K.
Published: May 2010

A plasticized poly(vinyl chloride) membrane electrode based on 4-[(5-mercapto-1,3,4-thiadiazol-2-ylimino)methyl]benzene-1,3-diol (L) for highly selective determination of palladium(II) (in PdCl42– form) is developed. The electrode showed a good Nernstian response (29.6 ± 0.4 mV per decade) over a wide concentration range (3.1 × 10–7 to 1.0 × 10–2 mol l–1). The limit of detection was 1.5 × 10–7 mol l–1. The electrode has a response time of about 20 s, and it can be used for at least 2 months without observing any considerable deviation from Nernstian response. The proposed electrode could be used in the pH range of 2.5–5.5. The practical utility of the electrode has been demonstrated by its use for the estimation of palladium content in aqueous samples.
A COMPARATIVE STUDY OF VALIDITY RANGES OF SOME FRACTAL METHODS OF TIME SERIES ANALYSIS
Authors: GÁLVEZ-COYT G. , MUÑOZ-DIOSDADO A. , DEL RÍO-CORREA J. L. , ANGULO-BROWN F.
Published: May 2010

Each fractal method of time series analysis gives origin to a parameter that characterizes them. For example, β is the resulting parameter of the application of spectral analysis, α for detrended fluctuation analysis (DFA), D for Higuchi's method and Ha for semivariogram, to mention only some of them. Diverse linear relations between the mentioned parameters have been reported; some of these relations have been obtained from theoretical approaches by assuming time series properties such as their self-similarity. The obtained relations are linear in all cases; nevertheless, these relations only have a limited validity range. In this work, we determine the relation between each one of the parameters ß, α and D for a suitable value range. This is done by means of numerical experiments, consisting of the generation of self-affine and fractal synthetic series. Each one of these sets has a minimum of 500 series with pre-established values of ß, D and Ha. In addition, these are constructed in a suitable value range for each generation method. Later, we apply fractal methods to each one of the three sets of series and the relations between the parameters are obtained. It is observed that all the relations have a linear part as it is expected, but there exist differences in the validity range depending on the generation method.
MODIFICATIONS AT LARGE DISTANCES FROM FRACTIONAL AND FRACTAL ARGUMENTS
Authors: EL-NABULSI RAMI AHMAD
Published: May 2010

The main aim of this short communication is to consider the general fractional properties of gravitational field based on the modified generalized Kim-Srivastava left-sided Erdélyi-Kober fractional integral approach that is generated by a fractal distribution of particles. We found that the gravitational field force could be modified at large distances without the presence of extra-dimensions or any source of dark energy.
MANDELBROT AND JULIA SETS OF ONE-PARAMETER RATIONAL FUNCTION FAMILIES ASSOCIATED WITH NEWTON'S METHOD
Authors: LIU XIANG-DONG , LI ZHI-JIE , ANG XUE-YE , ZHANG JIN-HAI
Published: May 2010

In this paper, general Mandelbrot and Julia sets of one-parameter rational function families associated with Newton's method were discussed. The bounds of these general Mandelbrot sets and two formulas for calculating the number of different periods periodic points of these rational functions were given. The relations between general Mandelbrot sets and common Mandelbrot sets of zn + c (n ∈ Z, n ≥ 2), along with the relations between general Mandelbrot sets and their corresponding Julia sets were investigated. Consequently, the results were found in the study: there are similarities between the Mandelbrot and Julia sets of one-parameter rational function families associated with Newton's method and the Mandelbrot and Julia sets of zn + c (n ∈ Z, n ≥ 2).
BOX-COUNTING DIMENSION RELATED TO THE BOUNDARY OF HEXAGONAL ARRAYS FOR AN EFFICIENT DIGITAL EARTH MODEL
Authors: ZHENG XIQIANG
Published: May 2010

An interesting sequence of arrays on hierarchical hexagonal grids was employed by PYXIS Innovation Inc. for an efficient digital earth model. These arrays constitute a Cauchy sequence in terms of Hausdorff distance. In this paper, we show that the box-counting dimension for the boundary of the limit of this sequence is [Formula: see text].
DIFFUSION-LIMITED AGGREGATION DRIVEN BY OPTIMAL TRANSPORTATION
Authors: XIA QINGLAN , UNGER DOUGLAS
Published: May 2010

In this article, we combine the DLA model of Witten and Sander with ideas from ramified optimal transportation. We propose a modification of the DLA model in which the probability of sticking is inversely proportional to the additional transport cost from the point to the root. We used a family of cost functions parameterized by a parameter α as studied in ramified optimal transportation. α < 0 promotes growth near the root whereas α > 0 promotes growth at the tips of the cluster. α = 0 is a phase transition point and corresponds to standard DLA. What makes this model interesting is that when α is negative enough (e.g. α < -2) the final cluster is an one-dimensional curve. On the other hand, when α is positive enough (e.g. α > 2) we get a nearly two dimensional disk. Thus our model encompasses the full range of fractal dimension from 1 to 2.
NON-CONVEXITY OF THE DIMENSION FUNCTION FOR SIERPIŃSKI PEDAL TRIANGLES
Authors: DING JIU , TANG YIFA
Published: May 2010

We disprove the conjecture of the paper by Zhang et al.1 on the Schur-convexity of the dimension function for the family of Sierpiński pedal triangles. We also show that this function is not convex and the related area-ratio function is not concave in their respective domain.
FRACTAL GROWTH AND MORPHOLOGICAL TRANSITIONS DURING CRYSTALLIZATION OF AMINO ACIDS IN PRESENCE OF GLUCOSE
Authors: DAS ISHWAR , VERMA SMRITI , ANSARI SHOEB A. , LALL R. S. , AGRAWAL NAMITA R.
Published: May 2010

Two-dimensional fractal and spherulitic patterns have been developed on microslides during the crystallization of amino acids in the absence and presence of glucose and agar-agar from their aqueous solutions. Lysine crystallized uniformly in the form of ringed spherulite, but in the presence of glucose it crystallized in the form of branched morphologies. Dependence of glucose concentrations on morphology of glutamic acid has also been studied. Morphology of glutamic acid was found to depend on glucose concentration. Due to interaction between glutamic acid and glucose, following morphological transitions were observed depending on glucose concentrations: spherulite → ringed spherulite → Fractal geometry → DLA-like pattern (D ≈ 1.725). Growth morphologies were characterized by measuring the location of bands (xn) as a function of band number n obeying the relation xn = mn + c, where m and n are slope and intercept respectively, and calculating the fractal dimension at different conditions. Influence of agar-agar on the morphology was also studied. Results showed that branched morphologies were more dominant in the presence of agar-agar. In case of glycine, irregular growth patterns were observed. Interaction between amino acids and glucose was studied by viscosity measurements. It has been inferred that interaction is maximum in case of interaction of glucose with glutamic acid (acidic) and minimum in case of glycine (neutral).
Hyper‐IgE Syndrome with STAT3 Mutation: A Case Report in Mainland China
Authors: Xie Lixin , Hu Xiaoxiang , Li Yang , Zhang Weihua , Chen Liang′an
Published: May 2010

Hyper‐immunoglobulin E syndromes (HIES) including compound primary immunodeficiency and nonimmunological abnormalities are characterized by extremely high serum IgE levels, eosinophilia, eczema, susceptibility to infections, distinctive facial appearance, retention of deciduous teeth, cyst‐forming pneumonias, and skeletal abnormalities. Itis reported that some cases of familial HIES are relative to autosomal dominant or recessive inheritance, but most cases are sporadic, and result from mutations in the human signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3) gene. In this paper, we firstly report a young man diagnosed of Hyper‐IgE syndrome with STAT3 mutation in Mainland China, and investigate the autosomal dominant trait of his family members.
The Δ33‐35 Mutant α‐Domain Containing β‐Domain‐Like M3S9 Cluster Exhibits the Function of α‐Domain with M4S11 Cluster in Human Growth Inhibitory Factor
Authors: Bao Qingui , Ding Zhichun , Huang Zhong-Xian , Tan Xiangshi
Published: May 2010

Neuronal growth inhibitory factor (GIF), also known as metallothionein (metallothionein‐3), impairs the survival and neurite formation of cultured neurons. It is known that the α‐β domain‐domain interaction of hGIF is crucial to the neuron growth inhibitory bioactivity although the exact mechanism is not clear. Herein, the β(MT3)‐β(MT3) mutant and the hGIF‐truncated Δ33‐35 mutant were constructed, and their biochemical properties were characterized by pH titration, EDTA, and DTNB reactions. Their inhibitory activity toward neuron survival and neurite extension was also examined. We found that the Δ33‐35 mutant α‐domain containing β‐domain‐like M3S9 cluster exhibits the function of α‐domain with M4S11 cluster in hGIF. These results showed that the stability and solvent accessibility of the metal‐thiolate cluster in β‐domain is very significant to the neuronal growth inhibitory activity of hGIF and also indicated that the particular primary structure of α‐domain is pivotal to domain‐domain interaction in hGIF.
Stochastic Dynamic Programming Applied to Hydrothermal Power Systems Operation Planning Based on the Convex Hull Algorithm
Authors: Dias Bruno H. , Marcato André L. M. , Souza Reinaldo C. , Soares Murilo P. , Silva Junior Ivo C. , Oliveira Edimar J. de , Brandi Rafael B. S. , Ramos Tales P.
Published: May 2010

This paper presents a new approach for the expected cost‐to‐go functions modeling used in the stochastic dynamic programming (SDP) algorithm. The SDP technique is applied to the long‐term operation planning of electrical power systems. Using state space discretization, the Convex Hull algorithm is used for constructing a series of hyperplanes that composes a convex set. These planes represent a piecewise linear approximation for the expected cost‐to‐go functions. The mean operational costs for using the proposed methodology were compared with those from the deterministic dual dynamic problem in a case study, considering a single inflow scenario. This sensitivity analysis shows the convergence of both methods and is used to determine the minimum discretization level. Additionally, the applicability of the proposed methodology for two hydroplants in a cascade is demonstrated. With proper adaptations, this work can be extended to a complete hydrothermal system.
Calcifying Bowel Inflammation: A Case Report
Authors: Klein Jacques , Morel Philippe , Toso Christian
Published: May 2010

We report about a previously healthy 72 year-old woman, presented with 6 days of left lower quadrant abdominal pain and constipation. There was no report of fever, melena, hematochezia or change in appetite. The physical exam demonstrated a distended abdomen with palpable left lower quadrant pain, without guarding. CT showed images compatible with a sigmoid diverticulitis and a calcification of the sigmoid colon. After antibiotic threatment, a colonoscopy was performed which revealed the presence of a shell in the sigmoid colon. Our case illustrates the need for a colonoscopy following an attack of diverticulitis to look for a cancer or rarely a foreign body.
Medullary Thyroid Carcinoma with Micronodular Lung Metastases: A Case Report with an Emphasis on the Imaging Findings
Authors: Ventura Nina , Marchiori Edson , Zanetti Gláucia , Muccillo Antonio , Pereira Mariana Leite , Abdalla Guilherme , Martins Pedro , Constantino Carolina Lamas , Canellas Rodrigo , Brandão Viviane , Varella de Oliveira Romulo
Published: May 2010

Medullary thyroid carcinoma is a rare malignancy that arises from calcitonin-producing C-cells and frequently metastasizes to lymph nodes in the neck. Distant metastases may involve bone, lung, and liver. The infrequent number of cases limits the clinical nature and ability to optimize diagnostic tools. Here, we present a case of a micronodular radiographic pattern in metastatic medullary thyroid cancer in order to enhance awareness of the disease process. A case discussion and relevant review of the literature are provided.
A Case Study of the Accuracy of SNMP Measurements
Authors: Roughan Matthew
Published: May 2010

For some time it has been known that the standard method for collecting link‐traffic measurements in IP networks—the Simple Network Management Protocol or SNMP—is flawed. It has often been noted that SNMP is subject to missing data, and that its measurements contain errors. However, very little work has been aimed at assessing the magnitude of these errors. This paper develops a simple, easily applicable technique for measuring SNMP errors, and uses it in a case study to assess errors in a common SNMP collection tool. The results indicate that most link‐load measurement errors are relatively small, but the distribution has a heavy‐tail, and that a few measurement errors can be as large as the measurements themselves. The approach also allows us to go some way towards explaining the cause of the errors.
IMMUNOCAT—A Data Management System for Epitope Mapping Studies
Authors: Chung Jo L. , Sun Jian , Sidney John , Sette Alessandro , Peters Bjoern
Published: May 2010

To enable rationale vaccine design, studies of molecular and cellular mechanisms of immune recognition need to be linked with clinical studies in humans. A major challenge in conducting such translational research studies lies in the management and integration of large amounts and various types of data collected from multiple sources. For this purpose, we have established “IMMUNOCAT”, an interactive data management system for the epitope discovery research projects conducted by our group. The system provides functions to store, query, and analyze clinical and experimental data, enabling efficient, systematic, and integrative data management. We demonstrate how IMMUNOCAT is utilized in a large-scale research contract that aims to identify epitopes in common allergens recognized by T cells from human donors, in order to facilitate the rational design of allergy vaccines. At clinical sites, demographic information and disease history of each enrolled donor are captured, followed by results of an allergen skin test and blood draw. At the laboratory site, T cells derived from blood samples are tested for reactivity against a panel of peptides derived from common human allergens. IMMUNOCAT stores results from these T cell assays along with MHC:peptide binding data, results from RAST tests for antibody titers in donor serum, and the respective donor HLA typing results. Through this system, we are able to perform queries and integrated analyses of the various types of data. This provides a case study for the use of bioinformatics and information management techniques to track and analyze data produced in a translational research study aimed at epitope identification.
Detection of the Endosomal Sorting Complex Required for Transport inEntamoeba histolyticaand Characterization of the EhVps4 Protein
Authors: López-Reyes Israel , García-Rivera Guillermina , Bañuelos Cecilia , Herranz Silvia , Vincent Olivier , López-Camarillo César , Marchat Laurence A. , Orozco Esther
Published: May 2010

Eukaryotic endocytosis involves multivesicular bodies formation, which is driven by endosomal sorting complexes required for transport (ESCRT). Here, we showed the presence and expression of homologous ESCRT genes inEntamoeba histolytica. We cloned and expressed theEhvps4gene, an ESCRT member, to obtain the recombinant EhVps4 and generate specific antibodies, which immunodetected EhVps4 in cytoplasm of trophozoites. Bioinformatics and biochemical studies evidenced that rEhVps4 is an ATPase, whose activity depends on the conserved E211 residue. Next, we generated trophozoites overexpressing EhVps4 and mutant EhVps4-E211Q FLAG-tagged proteins. The EhVps4-FLAG was located in cytosol and at plasma membrane, whereas the EhVps4-E211Q-FLAG was detected as abundant cytoplasmic dots in trophozoites. Erythrophagocytosis, cytopathic activity, and hepatic damage in hamsters were not improved in trophozoites overexpressing EhVps4-FLAG. In contrast, EhVps4-E211Q-FLAG protein overexpression impaired these properties. The localization of EhVps4-FLAG around ingested erythrocytes, together with our previous results, strengthens the role for EhVps4 inE. histolyticaphagocytosis and virulence.
Experiments on the Release of CMOS-Micromachined Metal Layers
Authors: Fernández Daniel , Ricart Jordi , Madrenas Jordi
Published: May 2010

We present experimental results on the release of MEMS devices manufactured using the standard CMOS interconnection metal layers as structural elements and the insulating silicon dioxide as sacrificial layers. Experiments compare the release results of four different etching agents in a CMOS technology (hydrofluoric acid, ammonium fluoride, a mixture of acetic acid and ammonium fluoride, and hydrogen fluoride), describe various phenomena found during the etching process, and show the release results of multilayer structures.
A Biochemical Study on the Effect of Proteolysis of Beta-Thromboglobulin Proteins Released from Activated Platelets on Fibroblast Proliferation
Authors: Ravindran Resmi , Krishnan Lissy K.
Published: May 2010

β-Thromboglobulin (β-TG) proteins are a heterogeneous group released from platelet α-granules on activation and have an effect on fibroblast migration and proliferation. We have previously reported the action of a metal-dependent protease on platelet-released proteins, which generates low-molecular-weight proteins that could be inhibited by ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA). To understand the physiological significance of the breakdown of proteins after release, their effect on fibroblast proliferation in vitro was studied. Platelet releasates were obtained without and with EDTA inhibition designated as R1 and R2, respectively, and proteins were affinity purified for testing. Cell proliferation was measured using [3H]-thymidine assay. Both R1 and R2 showed maximum activity at 100 µg/ml and R2 elicited significant proliferation compared to R1. When affinity-purified proteins were tested at 100 ng/ml, high-molecular-weight proteins showed significantly higher proliferation than low-molecular-weight proteins. We have shown that β-TG is cleaved after being released from activated platelets, thereby becoming less mitogenic for fibroblasts.
Ethanol Sclerotherapy of Superficial Venous Malformation: A New Procedure
Authors: Orlando José Luiz , Mendes Pereira Caldas Jose Guilherme , do Amaral Campos Heloisa Galvão , Nishinari Kenji , Wolosker Nelson
Published: May 2010

Background: Superficial venous malformations (SVM) are the most frequent vascular malformations. Outpatient percutaneous treatment with ethanol injection has rarely been described. Objective: To analyze the results from treating SVM patients with ethanol sclerotherapy. Methods: 81 patients were followed up prospectively over a median period of 18 months. 47 were female and 34 were male with a median age of 21 years. Most of the lesions were located in the limbs and the main symptom reported was pain. Each patient underwent fortnightly alcohol injection sessions. Results: The lesions and the symptoms completely disappeared or improved in 77 patients. There were no complications in 64 patients, while 11 presented a small skin ulcer, 3 hyperpigmentation and 3 paresthesia. Conclusion: Ethanol sclerotherapy for SVM patients was effective, with a low complication rate.
Taurine Buffers Glutamate Homeostasis in Retinal Cells in vitro under Hypoxic Conditions
Authors: Chen Fang , Mi Mantian , Zhang Qianyong , Wei Na , Chen Ka , Xu Hongxia , Yuan Jialin , Zhou Yong , Lang Haibin , Yu Xiaoping , Wang Bin , Wang Jian , Tang Yong , Chang Hui
Published: May 2010

Aims: We investigated whether taurine indirectly protects neurons under hypoxia by affecting retinal Müller cells, which are known to play important roles in the regulation of retinal glutamate content. Methods: Retinal cells isolated from rats were exposed to hypoxia for 24 h. We evaluated the retinal neuron survival, glutamate content in cultures with and without taurine under hypoxic conditions. The glutamate clearance function correlated with the expression of glutamine synthetase (GS) mRNA and L-glutamate/L-aspartate transporter (GLAST) mRNA. Immunohistochemical staining of glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP), vimentin and S-100 protein was performed to examine cytoskeletal changes in retinal Müller cells. Results: Retinal neurons treated with taurine exhibited significantly higher survival rates than those without taurine under hypoxia. Taurine inhibited the upregulation of GFAP and vimentin, and inhibited the downregulation of GLAST, GS and the nuclear-cytoplasmic ratio of S-100 under hypoxia. In addition, taurine inhibited the upregulation of the glutamate content in neurons and retinal Müller cells upon hypoxic exposure. Conclusion: These data suggest that hypoxic damage to cultured retinal cells is decreased by taurine. The neuroprotection by taurine may relate to buffering glutamate homeostasis via modulation of the glutamate clearance by retinal Müller cells.
Elevated Urinary Fibronectin Excretion Predicts Poor Outcome in Patients with Primary Chronic Glomerulonephritis
Authors: Idasiak-Piechocka Ilona , Oko Andrzej , Pawliczak Elżbieta , Kaczmarek Elżbieta , Czekalski Stanisław
Published: May 2010

Background/Aims: Fibronectin (FN) is one of the major matrix proteins in the kidney. The accumulation of FN fragments in inflamed glomeruli could contribute to the progression of renal injury. In the present study, the urinary FN excretion (UFN) was measured for evaluation of its possible role as a prognostic marker in patients with newly diagnosed chronic glomerulonephritis (GN). Methods: In 55 patients with newly diagnosed biopsy-proven chronic GN, UFN was measured using an enzyme-immunossay kit. The progression of kidney disease was defined as a reduction of the estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) ≧5 ml/min/year during the 4-year follow-up. Results: The mean UFN in patients with GN (245.0 ± 229.2 ng/mmol creatinine) was higher than in the 19 healthy subjects (100.7 ± 87.3 ng/mmol creatinine; p < 0.002). No correlations between the initial UFN and eGFR and proteinuria were found. We did not find any association between UFN and the severity of glomerular sclerosis or the intensity of interstitial fibrosis. The progressive fall of eGFR was recorded in 13 patients (progressors). The mean initial UFN was significantly higher in progressors than in nonprogressors (p < 0.01). In logistic regression analysis, the initial high UFN was identified as independent factor predicting kidney function deterioration. Conclusion: These results indicate that UFN measured before treatment could serve as an additional prognostic marker of a poor outcome in patients with newly diagnosed primary GN.
Comparison of Plasma Levels of Natural Anticoagulants (Protein C and Protein S) among Jordanian Smokers and Non-Smokers
Authors: Al-Sweedan Suleimman A. , Mueen Mohammed , Al-Sheyyab Mahmoud , Jaddou Hashem
Published: May 2010

Background: Protein C (PC) with its cofactor free protein S (FPS) are important anticoagulants. Any defect in the PC system is a risk factor for venous thrombosis. Aims: To assess the effect of intensity of smoking, and the dose-response for the number of cigarettes smoked on PC and FPS plasma levels. Methods: A comparative study was designed and carried out on a convenient sample of 50 healthy non-smokers and 150 non-symptomatic Jordanian male smokers. PC and FPS levels were measured using an automated system (Stago Analyzer, USA). Results: The plasma level of PC among smokers was 7.2% lower than that among non-smokers (p = 0.02). Moreover, smokers had 15.6% lower circulating FPS than non-smokers (p = 0.001). Furthermore, data showed significant negative correlations between both PC and FPS levels and the intensity of smoking (r = –0.21%, r = –0.23%, respectively; p = 0.01) and the period of smoking (r = –0.15%, r = –0.23%, respectively; p = 0.01, 0.12, respectively). Conclusions: The PC and FPS plasma levels were significantly lower in smokers than non-smokers. Both PC and FPS levels correlated inversely with the period and intensity of smoking, and FPS was more sensitive to smoking than PC.
Effects of Cognate Status on Word Comprehension in Second Language Learners: An ERP Investigation
Authors: Midgley Katherine J. , Holcomb Phillip J. , Grainger Jonathan
Published: May 2010

ERPs were used to explore the different patterns of processing of cognate and noncognate words in the first (L1) and second (L2) language of a population of second language learners. L1 English students of French were presented with blocked lists of L1 and L2 words, and ERPs to cognates and noncognates were compared within each language block. For both languages, cognates had smaller amplitudes in the N400 component when compared with noncognates. L1 items that were cognates showed early differences in amplitude in the N400 epoch when compared with noncognates. L2 items showed later differences between cognates and noncognates than L1 items. The results are discussed in terms of how cognate status affects word recognition in second language learners.