bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Anomalous Oxide Charge Variation Identified by Alternating Current Surface Photovoltage Method in Cr-Aqueous-Solution-Rinsed p-Type Si(001) Wafers Exposed to Air
Authors: Shimizu Hirofumi , Sanada Yuji
Published: October 2011

Chromium (Cr)-aqueous-solution-rinsed and/or hydrofluoric acid (HF)-solution-dipped p-type silicon (Si) (001) wafer surfaces are investigated by the frequency-dependent alternating current (AC) surface photovoltage (SPV) method. At the Cr(OH)3/p-type Si interface, in principle, a Schottky barrier could not possibly be generated. The Cr ion (Cr3+) is considered to forcibly deprive a p-type Si substrate of electrons during metallization (Cr3++3e-→Cr). Thus, at an early stage of air exposure, a positive fixed oxide charge may be compensated for by electrons, indicating the disappearance of AC SPV. With air exposure time, AC SPV emerges again and increases gradually in a Cr-deposited p-type Si(001) surface. This is because the native oxide between the Cr atom layer and the p-type Si substrate grows with time. As a result, a positive fixed oxide charge exceeds the overall charge state of the Cr-deposited p-type Si surface. Thus, AC SPV appears again and gradually increases with the fixed oxide charge in p-type Si. The saturated value is in a good agreement with that of the HF aqueous-solution-dipped p-type Si surface.
Effect of Microstructure on Magnetoelectric Properties of 0.9Pb(Zr0.52Ti0.48)O3–0.1Pb(Zn1/3Nb2/3)O3 and Ni0.8Zn0.2Fe2O4 Particulate Composites
Authors: Ryu Jungho , Baek Chang-Woo , Oh Nam-Keun , Han Guifang , Kim Jong-Woo , Hahn Byung-Dong , Yoon Woon-Ha , Park Dong-Soo , Kim Jeong-Joo , Jeong Dae-Yong
Published: October 2011

The effects of magnetostrictive particle distribution on magnetoelectric (ME) properties were investigated in a 3–0 ME composite made of piezoelectric [0.9Pb(Zr0.52Ti0.48)O3–0.1Pb(Zn1/3Nb2/3)O3 + 0.005Mn; PZT–PZN] and 20 wt % magnetostrictive (Ni0.8Zn0.2Fe2O4; NZF) materials. X-ray diffraction (XRD) analysis and energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS) results showed that PZT–PZN and NZF did not react with each other and coexisted without severe inter-diffusion. The larger interface area due to the smaller particle size offered greater Fe3+ diffusion into the piezoelectric PZT–PZN, which increased the piezoelectric mechanical quality factor of the 3–0 composite. In addition, the ME property (d
E/d
H) was also enhanced by the smaller NZF particle size, and this enhancement was attributed to the magnetically induced, homogeneous stress field exerted by NZF onto PZT–PZN.
A Wide-Area Sensor Network Based on Fiber Optic Power Supply
Authors: Tanaka Yosuke , Kinoshita Masahiro , Takahashi Akiko , Kurokawa Takashi
Published: October 2011

A wide-area sensor network whose sensor nodes are driven by supplied laser power is proposed in this paper. Each sensor node produces an optical signal by modulating a part of the supplied laser light and sends it back to a monitor. A developed sensor node was driven with an incident optical power of 1.7 mW, which is low enough to drive more than 100 sensor nodes placed along an optical fiber line. We also developed wireless/optical interface nodes that integrate the sensor network with wireless sensors and realize ubiquitous sensing.
Photoluminescence of Polymer Film Fabricated by Plasma-Enhanced Chemical Vapor Deposition from Mixture of Benzene and Cyclohexene
Authors: Moriki Kazunori , Yumoto Motoshige
Published: October 2011

In order to control the molecular structure of a polymer film deposited by plasma-enhanced chemical vapor deposition (PECVD) for fabricating an optical functional device, we attempt to copolymerize a polymer film from two types of monomer. One type of monomer functions as an optical functional segment without structural degradation and the other functions as a binding material by decomposing itself. In the present study, we examine the electron state and interaction between electrons and molecular vibration by analyzing photoluminescence spectra excited by an argon ion laser (2.410 eV). As a result, firstly, we found that photoluminescence arises from monosubstituted benzene introduced into the alkyl network. Secondly, the Huang–Rhys dimensionless coupling parameter S is in the range from 1.2 to 1.4, which is comparable to that of poly(phenylene vinylene) (PPV). The interacted molecular vibration is in the lower-order mode of framework vibration of the phenyl ring. In addition, we try to introduce fluorine decomposed from CF4 to the film. The fluorine causes the formation of a defect in the neighborhood of the phenyl derivative. That is, the fluorine creates the defect inside the phenyl derivative.
Magnetoelectric Effect of Fe70Pd30 Ferromagnetic Shape Memory Alloy Film: Lead Zirconate Titanate Trilayer Composites at Low and High Magnetic Field Frequencies
Authors: Sado Yusuke , Saito Chihiro , Furuya Yasubumi , Kishi Yoichi , Yajima Zenjiro , Okazaki Teiko
Published: October 2011

Magnetoelectric (ME) coupling in multiferroic composites of Fe70Pd30/lead zirconate titanate (PZT)/Fe70Pd30 trilayers was investigated. An Fe70Pd30 ribbon and Fe70Pd30 films were prepared by rapid solidification and sputtering techniques, respectively. The saturated value of magnetostriction of the ribbon 30 µm in thickness was 95 ppm at a steady magnetic field of 200 Oe. Those of the films were 22 to 67 ppm depending on the film thickness. The output ME voltage V
ME of the trilayer composites, which was measured at a driving ac magnetic field H
ac at 1 Hz, increased with increasing magnetostriction. The V
ME of the ribbon/PZT/ribbon composite exhibited a very large peak at a resonant frequency of 64 kHz and responded to an H
ac of 0.0025 Oe. However, for the film/PZT/film composite, V
ME linearly increased with increasing H
ac in a wide frequency range of 1 to 104 Hz.
Origin of Very Low Effective Barrier Height in Magnetic Tunnel Junctions with a Semiconductor GaOx Tunnel Barrier
Authors: Watanabe Suguru , Saito Hidekazu , Mineno Yusuke , Yuasa Shinji , Ando Koji
Published: October 2011

We fabricated Fe/GaO
x
/Fe magnetic tunnel junctions (MTJs) where GaO
x
is a wide-gap amorphous semiconductor. At room temperature, the MTJs showed magnetoresistance (MR) ratios up to 10% as well as high bias-voltage (V
half) of 500 mV, where the MR ratio becomes half the zero-bias value. It was found that the MTJ has a very low effective barrier height (φeff) of 0.17 eV which is one of the lowest values among the ever reported in MTJs. We proved that effective mass of tunneling electron in GaO
x
is only 11% of free electron mass, which plays a crucial role on the observed low φeff.
Field Emission Microscopy Study of Au-Covered Nanopyramids with 211-Facet Sides Grown on Blunt W Tips via Assistive Remolding Treatment
Authors: Rokuta Eiji , Nakagawa Tatsuhiro , Murata Hidekazu , Fujita Shin , Shimoyama Hiroshi , Oshima Chuhei
Published: October 2011

We produced atomic pyramids with three 211 facets at the apex of a blunt W <111 > tip. The blunt W tip was preliminarily subjected to a remolding treatment to sharpen its end, which was aimed at reducing the burden of atom transport necessary for the growth of the pyramids, i.e., 211 faceting around the (111) plane. The effects of the remolding treatment were investigated in detail by field emission microscopy (FEM). From the results of a systematic experiment, a phase diagram of the tip-end structures was successfully represented as a function of remolding temperature and voltage. Consequently, remolding treatment at 2100 K was found to induce 211 faceting most significantly under all the conditions examined. Additional processes of Au deposition and postdeposition annealing were found to yield unique FEM patterns including typical signs of nanopyramid growth. The emission current stability exhibited by the resultant tip indicated that the source areas were comparable to the atomic dimensions.
Performance Prediction of Complementary Field-Effect Transistor Circuits Using Graphene with Band Gap Induced by Site-Potential Asymmetry
Authors: Sano Eiichi , Otsuji Taiichi
Published: October 2011

A drift-diffusion-based simulation and Monte Carlo simulation with electron–phonon and electron–electron scatterings are performed to extract the threshold voltage characteristics and intrinsic delay of field-effect transistors (FETs) composed of graphene with an energy band gap owing to atomic site potential asymmetry. On the basis of the deduced graphene FET characteristics, the delays of complementary graphene FET inverters are predicted for gate lengths down to 10 nm. The calculations suggest a sub-picosecond delay in 10 nm gate inverters. The problem of fully using the high electron velocity in graphene is addressed.
Growth of Quasi-Single-Crystal Silicon–Germanium Thin Films on Glass Substrates by Continuous Wave Laser Lateral Crystallization
Authors: Kitahara Kuninori , Hirose Kenta , Suzuki Junki , Kondo Kenji , Hara Akito
Published: October 2011

Continuous wave laser lateral crystallization (CLC) technology was applied to grow silicon–germanium (SiGe) thin films on glass substrates. The crystal structure and distribution of Ge in the films were characterized by optical and electron microscopies. The compounding of Ge with Si and the use of CLC resulted in the growth of crystals with lengths greater than 100 µm in the laser-scanning region, whereas such long crystals were not formed in pure Si films. For Si0.7Ge0.3, the orientation of the crystal surface normal was along <111>. Most crystalline boundaries were Σ3 coincidence site lattices that were electrically inactive. High-angle or random grain boundaries were rarely found. Thus, the crystallized part can be regarded as a quasi-single crystal. The growth mode and segregation of Ge are discussed in terms of a constitutional undercooling model.
Low Electrical Resistivity of Ni-Doped La-Cobaltite Thin Films Using a Novel Chemical Solution Route for Thermoelectric Applications
Authors: Kim Seung-Hyun , Jiang Wenyan , Turan Bugra , Shim In-Bo , Kingon Angus I.
Published: October 2011

5 mol % Ni substituted La-cobaltite thin films were successfully prepared by using metal salt precursors-based chemical solution route for thermoelectric applications. We systematically investigated the optimized process conditions for the low-cost effective thermoelectric thin film preparation. The La(Co0.95Ni0.05)O3thin film showed a fully crystalline perovskite structure after 650 °C annealing process without any second phase. The film showed relatively dense and uniform microstructure with very fine and homogeneous grains. For the oxide-based thermoelectric applications, one of the important key parameters is to reduce the electrical resistivity of the films. It was clarified that Ni substitution played a great role for reducing the electrical resistivity of the films. The average resistivity value of the Ni-doped films was around 0.18 Ω cm at room temperature, which was approximately over two times lower value than that of the undoped La-cobaltite thin films.
Suppression of Initial Energy Spreads in Electron Radio Frequency Linacs for Intense Irradiation Applications
Authors: Kim Sang-Hoon , Yang Hae-Ryong , Oh Jong-Seok , Ha Gwanghui , Jang Sung-Duck , Son Yoon-Gyu , Park Sung-Ju , Lee Kangok , Chung Kie-Hyung , Cho Moo-Hyun , Namkung Won
Published: October 2011

RF linacs for high-power beams are operated under the fully beam-loaded condition for power efficiency. Under this condition, initial energy spreads are generated by the transient beam-loading effect. Irradiation sources require a beam energy of less than 10 MeV for radiation safety. In order to maximize the beam power and maintain the beam energy at a safe level, we need to suppress the initial energy spreads. In an L-band traveling-wave linac for irradiation applications, the initial high-energy electrons are suppressed by beam current modulation with RF power modulation. In this study, the temporal profile of beam energy is calculated by a numerical method and verified by measurement. As a result, the average beam energy and the corresponding beam power are improved by nearly 60% compared with the case without any modulations. The effect of beam current modulation on bunching and acceleration is also discussed in this paper.
Discharge-Mode Transition in Jet-Type Dielectric Barrier Discharge Using Argon/Acetone Gas Flow Ignited by Small Helium Plasma Jet
Authors: Urabe Keiichiro , Yamada Keitaro , Sakai Osamu
Published: October 2011

A discharge-mode transition in a jet-type dielectric barrier discharge (DBD) was triggered by a small fraction of acetone vapor added to an argon (Ar) gas flow at atmospheric pressure. In order to trigger a stable discharge in the Ar/acetone gas flow with a relatively small applied voltage, we used an additional small plasma jet using a He gas flow on the side of the main flow. The transition from filamentary to glow like discharge modes took place upon increasing the acetone-vapor ratio, with the transition occurring at an acetone content of approximately 0.3 vol %. We compared discharge currents, optical emission spectra, and deposited materials on the substrate in each discharge mode to characterize the discharge phenomena. The experimental results clearly indicate that the characteristics of the jet-type DBD show nonlinear dependence on the acetone-vapor ratio, especially around the transition to the discharge mode. It was also found by microscopic observations that the surface morphologies of the deposited materials were completely different in the filamentary and glow like modes.
Planar Circulator for Sub-Terahertz-Wave Reflection-Geometry Imaging
Authors: Ito Hiroshi , Yamamoto Hiroshi , Muramoto Yoshifumi , Ishibashi Tadao
Published: October 2011

A planar circulator circuit (PCC) implementing a 180° hybrid circuit for reflection-geometry sub-terahertz-wave imaging has been developed. The PCC is evaluated by measuring its signal transfer characteristics at around 300 GHz. A resonant behavior with a unidirectional cycling transmittance is observed in the PCC at around 270 GHz, indicating the proper function of the PCC as a circulator. The peak signal-to-background ratio is measured to be about 10. The PCC is integrated with a uni-traveling-carrier photodiode and a Schottky barrier diode to construct a photonic transceiver module. The characteristics of the PCC in the module are also evaluated by measuring images of a test sample. Although the image resolution decreases with signal frequency deviation from the resonant condition, it is confirmed that a practical contrast can be obtained for a bandwidth of about 40 GHz. Using the fabricated transceiver, thein vivoimaging of a human finger at 270 GHz is successfully demonstrated.
Glp-1 analog, liraglutide, ameliorates hepatic steatosis and cardiac hypertrophy in C57BL/6J mice fed a Western diet
Authors: Mells Jamie E. , Fu Ping P. , Sharma Shvetank , Olson Darin , Cheng Lihong , Handy Jeffrey A. , Saxena Neeraj K. , Sorescu Dan , Anania Frank A.
Published: October 2011

The aims of this study were designed to determine whether liraglutide, a long-acting glucagon-like peptide, could reverse the adverse effects of a diet high in fat that also contained trans-fat and high-fructose corn syrup (ALIOS diet). Specifically, we examined whether treatment with liraglutide could reduce hepatic insulin resistance and steatosis as well as improve cardiac function. Male C57BL/6J mice were pair fed or fed ad libitum either standard chow or the ALIOS diet. After 8 wk the mice were further subdivided and received daily injections of either liraglutide or saline for 4 wk. Hyperinsulinemic-euglycemic clamp studies were performed after 6 wk, revealing hepatic insulin resistance. Glucose tolerance and insulin resistance tests were performed at 8 and 12 wk prior to and following liraglutide treatment. Liver pathology, cardiac measurements, blood chemistry, and RNA and protein analyses were performed. Clamp studies revealed hepatic insulin resistance after 6 wk of ALIOS diet. Liraglutide reduced visceral adiposity and liver weight ( P < 0.001). As expected, liraglutide improved glucose and insulin tolerance. Liraglutide improved hypertension ( P < 0.05) and reduced cardiac hypertrophy. Surprisingly, liver from liraglutide-treated mice had significantly higher levels of fatty acid binding protein, acyl-CoA oxidase II, very long-chain acyl-CoA dehydrogenase, and microsomal triglyceride transfer protein. We conclude that liraglutide reduces the harmful effects of an ALIOS diet by improving insulin sensitivity and by reducing lipid accumulation in liver through multiple mechanisms including, transport, and increase β-oxidation.
Contribution of the spontaneous crossed-phrenic phenomenon to inspiratory tidal volume in spontaneously breathing rats
Authors: Dougherty Brendan J. , Lee Kun-Ze , Lane Michael A. , Reier Paul J. , Fuller David D.
Published: October 2011

Spinal cord hemisection at C2 (C2HS) severs bulbospinal inputs to ipsilateral phrenic motoneurons causing transient hemidiaphragm paralysis. The spontaneous crossed-phrenic phenomenon (sCPP) describes the spontaneous recovery of ipsilateral phrenic bursting following C2HS. We reasoned that the immediate (next breath) changes in tidal volume (VT) induced by ipsilateral phrenicotomy during spontaneous breathing would provide a quantitative measure of the contribution of the sCPP to postinjury VT. Using this approach, we tested the hypothesis that the sCPP makes more substantial contributions to VT when respiratory drive is increased. Pneumotachography was used to measure VT in anesthetized, spontaneously breathing adult male rats at intervals following C2HS. A progressive increase in VT (ml/breath) occurred over an 8 wk period following C2HS during both poikilocapnic baseline breathing and hypercapnic respiratory challenge (7% inspired CO2). The sCPP did not impact baseline breathing at 1–3 days postinjury since VT was unchanged after ipsilateral phrenicotomy. However, by 2 wk post-C2HS, baseline phrenicotomy caused a 16 ± 2% decline in VT; a comparable 16 ± 4% decline occurred at 8 wk. Contrary to our hypothesis, the phrenicotomy-induced declines in VT (%) during hypercapnic respiratory stimulation did not differ from the baseline response at any postinjury time point (all P > 0.11). We conclude that by 2 wk post-C2HS the sCPP makes a meaningful contribution to VT that is similar across different levels of respiratory drive.
DP2 (CRTh2) Antagonism Reduces Ocular Inflammation Induced by Allergen Challenge and Respiratory Syncytial Virus
Authors: Stebbins Karin J. , Broadhead Alexander R. , Musiyenko Alla , Barik Sailen , Scott Jill M. , Truong Yen P. , Stearns Brian A. , Hutchinson John H. , Prasit Peppi , Evans Jilly F. , Lorrain Daniel S.
Published: October 2011

Background: Allergic conjunctivitis is characterized by itchy, watery and swollen eyes which occur in response to exposure to seasonal or environmental allergens. The early phase reaction of allergic conjunctivitis is primarily mediated by mast cell degranulation while the late phase reaction is driven by Th2 cells and eosinophils. Prostaglandin D2 (PGD2), released from mast cells, is present in allergic conjunctival tears and may elicit classical allergic responses via interaction with the high-affinity DP2 receptor (chemoattractant receptor-homologous molecule expressed on Th2 cells, CRTh2). Furthermore, antagonism of this receptor is well known to inhibit eosinophil chemotaxis, basophil activation and Th2 cytokine production. PGD2, therefore, may be involved in both early and late phase reactions in response to allergen challenge. Methods: Thus, we explored whether our novel and selective DP2 antagonist AM156 would be efficacious in animal models of allergic conjunctivitis. Furthermore, as respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) has been implicated in the pathogenesis of allergic conjunctivitis, we examined the effects of DP2 antagonism in a murine model of RSV ocular infection. Results: Utilizing a guinea pig ovalbumin model and a murine ragweed model we demonstrated that AM156 reduces redness, discharge and swelling in response to allergen challenge. These effects were equal to or greater than those of current clinical treatment options for allergic conjunctivitis including topical corticosteroids and a dual-mechanism antihistamine and decongestant. AM156 significantly reduced RSV-induced ocular inflammation and IL-4 production. Conclusion: These results suggest that a topical DP2 antagonist such as AM156 may represent a novel therapeutic for allergic conjunctivitis.
Response to Cutaneous Immunization with Low-Molecular-Weight Subunit Keyhole Limpet Hemocyanin
Authors: Milgrom Henry , Kesler Karen , Byron Margie , Harbeck Ron , Holliday Robert , Leung Donald Y.M.
Published: October 2011

Background: This study was carried out to determine whether humoral and cellular immune responses would be provoked by cutaneous administration of keyhole limpet hemocyanin (KLH) and in particular by scarification of the skin (SS). Methods: This was an unblinded, single-center, 8-week pilot study in healthy young adults. Twenty-four subjects assigned to 4 groups completed the study. Each group was immunized twice, with a 3-week interval, either by SS or intradermally (ID), with an SS dose of 50 or 250 µg and an ID dose of 100 or 250 µg. Serum was collected for antibody assays at baseline and 3 weeks after both the first and second immunizations. Delayed-type hypersensitivity (DTH) testing was performed before the first immunization and 3 weeks after the second. Results: In the 250-µg SS group, there was a significant increase from day 0 to day 47 in anti-KLH IgG (p = 0.02; day 0: 3.46 ± 5.49 mg/dl, day 47: 7.54 ± 8.87 mg/dl) and anti-KLH IgA (p = 0.04; day 0: 4.78 ± 9.15 mg/dl, day 47: 11.42 ± 13.62 mg/dl). One subject in each treatment group showed a positive DTH test result representing 20% (50-µg SS), 10% (250-µg SS), 25% (100-µg ID) and 20% (250-µg ID) of the subjects. Conclusions: It was possible to induce both humoral and cellular immune responses by SS administration despite the limited antigenic potency of the low-molecular-weight KLH preparation. This approach may be useful for studying the mechanisms of immune response in allergic skin diseases such as atopic dermatitis.
Validation of the REMA Score for Predicting Mast Cell Clonality and Systemic Mastocytosis in Patients with Systemic Mast Cell Activation Symptoms
Authors: Alvarez-Twose I. , González-de-Olano D. , Sánchez-Muñoz L. , Matito A. , Jara-Acevedo M. , Teodosio C. , García-Montero A. , Morgado J.M. , Orfao A. , Escribano L.
Published: October 2011

Background: A variable percentage of patients with systemic mast cell (MC) activation symptoms meet criteria for systemic mastocytosis (SM). We prospectively evaluated the clinical utility of the REMA score versus serum baseline tryptase (sBt) levels for predicting MC clonality and SM in 158 patients with systemic MC activation symptoms in the absence of mastocytosis in the skin (MIS). Methods: World Health Organization criteria for SM were applied in all cases. MC clonality was defined as the presence of KIT-mutated MC or by a clonal HUMARA test. The REMA score consisted of the assignment of positive or negative points as follows: male (+1), female (–1), sBt <15 µg/l (–1) or >25 µg/l (+2), presence (–2) or absence (+1) of pruritus, hives or angioedema and presence (+3) of presyncope or syncope. Efficiency of the REMA score for predicting MC clonality and SM was assessed by receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analyses and compared to those obtained by means of sBt levels alone. Results: Molecular studies revealed the presence of clonal MC in 68/80 SM cases and in 11/78 patients who did not meet the criteria for SM. ROC curve analyses confirmed the greater sensitivity and a similar specificity of the REMA score versus sBt levels (84 vs. 59% and 74 vs. 70% for MC clonality and 87 vs. 62% and 73 vs. 71% for SM, respectively). Conclusions: Our results confirm the clinical utility of the REMA score to predict MC clonality and SM in patients suffering from systemic MC activation symptoms without MIS.
‘And So They Ordered Me to Kill a Person’: Conceptualizing the Impacts of Child Soldiering on the Development of Moral Agency
Authors: Wainryb Cecilia
Published: October 2011

Approximately 300,000 child soldiers serve in various armed groups around the world, and become directly implicated in the perpetration of kidnappings, killings, and torture. Considering that children construct moral concepts and a sense of themselves as moral beings in the context of their everyday interactions with others, the concern with how their harrowing experiences of violence may affect their moral development is particularly compelling. To date, however, no research has been conducted examining how these youths grapple with the violence they have perpetrated and how they reconcile their own actions with a view of themselves as moral people. In this paper, I review the limitations of constructs relying on moral disengagement and post-traumatic stress, which are typically used for examining the aftermaths of violence perpetration, and outline a new framework grounded on the normative developmental process whereby children grapple with their experiences of wrongdoing.
Connecting Learning and Identity Development through a Transformative Activist Stance: Application in Adolescent Development in a Child Welfare Program
Authors: Vianna Eduardo , Stetsenko Anna
Published: October 2011

This paper addresses the relationship between identity and learning and how their integration in adolescence is an important part of short- and long-term developmental dynamics. We discuss how social practice theories can be expanded from a position termed ‘transformative activist stance’ that puts emphasis on collaborative practice aimed at changing the world and enacted by individual activist contributions as the grounding for both identity and learning. We further focus on critical-theoretical knowledge as a tool for identity development and a catalyst for merging identity and learning. The developmental trajectory of an adolescent boy living in a group home and participating in a collaborative transformative project showcases a dramatic personal transformation from a victim of oppressive circumstances to an agent of social change with a meaningful life agenda resulting from a merger of his evolving commitment to contribute to transforming his present community practice and of his growing immersion in critical-theoretical learning.
Substance Use Disorders and Comorbid Mental Disorders in First-Time Admitted Patients from a Catchment Area
Authors: Langås Anne-Marit , Malt Ulrik Fredrik , Opjordsmoen Stein
Published: October 2011

Aim: To describe lifetime mental disorders in patients with substance use disorders (SUD) admitted for the first time to specialized treatment for psychiatric or addiction problems from a catchment area. Methods: Special efforts were made to include all eligible patients and secure completion of thorough assessments, including the Psychiatric Research Interview for Substance and Mental Disorders (PRISM) and the Structured Clinical Interview for DSM-IV axis II personality disorders (SCID-II). The strength of this study lies in its rigorous patient recruitment and assessment methods. Results: Of 61 patients, 53 had alcohol use disorder (AUD). Of these, 28 had AUD only, and 25 had an additional drug use disorder (DUD). 89% had comorbid axis I (85%) or axis II (46%) disorders. The most prevalent axis I disorders were major depressive disorder (71%), social phobia (31%) and posttraumatic stress disorder (18%). Among those with comorbid psychiatric disorders (n = 54), 25 (41% of the sample) had disorders considered to be independent of their substance use only, 4 patients (7%) had substance-induced disorders only, and 23 patients (38%) had both independent and substance-induced disorders. Conclusion: Comorbid mental disorders were remarkably prevalent in these SUD patients who were admitted for the first time.
Relationship between Oxidative Stress and Cardiomyopathic Changes in Ovariectomized Rats
Authors: Aksakal Enbiya , Akaras Nurhan , Tanboga Ibrahim H. , Kurt Mustafa , Halici Zekai , Odabasoglu Fehmi , Unal Bunyamin
Published: October 2011

Objectives: Menopause has a negative effect on cardiovascular functions. However, very little is known of the overall effect of menopause on the cardiac ultrastructure or the pathophysiological basis of this. Methods: A group of 12-week-old female Sprague Dawley rats were randomly allocated to healthy control (n = 6) and ovariectomy groups (n = 6). Twelve weeks after ovariectomy, the rats’ cardiac tissues were histopathologically analyzed for determination of oxidant and antioxidant enzymes [activities of catalase (CAT), superoxide dismutase (SOD), and myeloperoxidase (MPO) and amount of glutathione (GSH) and lipid peroxidation (LPO)]. Results: When compared to the control group, the ovariectomy group showed cardiomyopathic changes. In tissue, activities of CAT (185 ± 2.4 vs. 112 ± 1.4 mmol/min/mg tissue; p < 0.05), SOD (153 ± 1.0 vs. 146 ± 0.7 mmol/min/mg tissue; p < 0.05) and MPO (19 ± 0.8 vs. 8.6 ± 0.11 µmol/min/mg tissue; p < 0.05) and LPO levels (32.1 ± 0.77 vs. 14.4 ± 0.20 nmol/g tissue; p < 0.05) were significantly increased in the ovariectomy group when compared to the control group. However, GSH levels (3.43 ± 0.02 vs. 3.73 ± 0.01 nmol/g tissue; p < 0.05) were significantly lower in the ovariectomy group when compared to the control group. Conclusion: Using an experimental animal model, we were able to demonstrate that menopause causes cardiomyopathic changes, and we propose that these changes could be mediated by oxidative stress.
Capsule-Endoscopic Findings of Ulcerative Colitis Patients
Authors: Higurashi Takuma , Endo Hiroki , Yoneda Masato , Hosono Kunihiro , Sakai Eiji , Takahashi Hirokazu , Inamori Masahiko , Uchiyama Shiori , Kojima Takuto , Kawana Kenichi , Natsumeda Yutaka , Nagase Hajime , Nakajima Atsushi
Published: October 2011

Background/Aims: Ulcerative colitis (UC) is a chronic inflammatory bowel disease characterized by diffuse mucosal inflammation, traditionally regarded as being limited to the colorectum. Although several gastroduodenal lesions have also been reported recently in cases of UC, in general, small-bowel lesions in UC are believed to be extremely rare. The aim of this study was to examine the small bowel by capsule endoscopy in patients with UC. Methods: The study was conducted in 23 well-documented UC patients and 23 control volunteers. The frequency of small-bowel lesions, the number of small-bowel lesions per patient and the capsule endoscopy score were comparatively evaluated between the two groups. Results: Of the 23 UC patients, 13 (57%) showed small-bowel lesions, and 8 (35%) had erosions. There were significant differences in the frequency of the small-bowel lesions (p < 0.001) and erosions (p = 0.009) between the two groups. The capsule endoscopy score was correlated with the UC disease activity index (r = 0.718, p < 0.001). Conclusions: This is the first capsule-endoscopic study conducted to examine the small-bowel involvement in UC patients as compared with the healthy volunteers. It was concluded that UC, a chronic inflammatory bowel disease, can also involve the small bowel.
Calcified Atherosclerosis in Different Vascular Beds and the Risk of Mortality
Authors: Allison Matthew A. , Hsi Stephanie , Wassel Christina L. , Morgan Cindy , Ix Joachim H. , Wright C. Michael , Criqui Michael H.
Published: October 2011

Objective—

The goal of this study was to determine differences in risks for total and cause-specific mortality related to calcified atherosclerosis in different vascular beds.

Methods and Results—

A total of 4544 patients underwent computed tomography scans that were interrogated for calcium in different vascular beds. Mortality assessment was conducted by death certificate adjudication. At baseline, the mean age was 56.8 years, and 43% were female. After an average of 7.8 years, there were 163 deaths. With full adjustment, the presence of calcium in the thoracic aorta (hazard ratio [HR], 2.1; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.2–3.5), carotids (HR, 1.60; CI, 1.1–2.5), and iliac (HR, 1.67; CI, 1.0–2.9) arteries were associated with total mortality, whereas the presence of coronary calcium was associated with cardiovascular disease (CVD) mortality (HR, 3.4; CI, 0.8–10.9). For severity of calcium burden, a 1-SD increment in the iliac arteries was the strongest predictor for all types of mortality. C-statistics were not significantly larger when noncoronary vascular beds were added to models with CVD risk factors or CVD risk factors plus coronary artery calcium.

Conclusion—

The associations between calcified atherosclerosis and mortality differ by vascular bed, suggesting that the location and severity of calcification in different vascular beds provide unique information for mortality.
Transglutaminase 2–Mediated Activation of β-Catenin Signaling Has a Critical Role in Warfarin-Induced Vascular Calcification
Authors: Beazley Kelly E. , Deasey Stephanie , Lima Florence , Nurminskaya Maria V.
Published: October 2011

Objective—

Accumulating experimental evidence implicates β-catenin signaling and enzyme transglutaminase 2 (TG2) in the progression of vascular calcification, and our previous studies have shown that TG2 can activate β-catenin signaling in vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs). Here we investigated the role of the TG2/β-catenin signaling axis in vascular calcification induced by warfarin.

Methods and Results—

Warfarin-induced calcification in rat A10 VSMCs is associated with the activation of β-catenin signaling and is independent of oxidative stress. The canonical β-catenin inhibitor Dkk1, but not the Wnt antagonist Wif-1, prevents warfarin-induced activation of β-catenin, calcification, and osteogenic transdifferentiation in VSMCs. TG2 expression and activity are increased in warfarin-treated cells, in contrast to canonical Wnt ligands. Vascular cells with genetically or pharmacologically reduced TG2 activity fail to activate β-catenin in response to warfarin. Moreover, warfarin-induced calcification is significantly reduced on the background of attenuated TG2 both in vitro and in vivo.

Conclusion—

TG2 is a critical mediator of warfarin-induced vascular calcification that acts through the activation of β-catenin signaling in VSMCs. Inhibition of canonical β-catenin pathway or TG2 activity prevents warfarin-regulated calcification, identifying the TG2/β-catenin axis as a novel therapeutic target in vascular calcification.
Inhibition of Thrombin Receptor Signaling on α-Smooth Muscle Actin
+
CD34
+
Progenitors Leads to Repair After Murine Immune Vascular Injury
Authors: Chen Daxin , Shrivastava Seema , Ma Liang , Tham El-Li , Abrahams Joel , Coe J. David , Scott Diane , Lechler Robert I. , McVey John H. , Dorling Anthony
Published: October 2011

Objective—

The goal of this study was to use mice expressing human tissue factor pathway inhibitor (TFPI) on α-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA)
+
cells as recipients of allogeneic aortas to gain insights into the cellular mechanisms of intimal hyperplasia (IH).

Methods and Results—

BALB/c aortas (H-2
d
) transplanted into α-TFPI–transgenic (Tg) mice (H-2
b
) regenerated a quiescent endothelium in contrast to progressive IH seen in C57BL/6 wild-type (WT) mice even though both developed aggressive anti-H-2
d
alloresponses, indicating similar vascular injuries. Adoptively transferred Tg CD34
+
(but not CD34
−
) cells inhibited IH in WT recipients, indicating the phenotype of α-TFPI–Tg mice was due to these cells. Compared with syngeneic controls, endogenous CD34
+
cells were mobilized in significant numbers after allogeneic transplantation, the majority showing sustained expression of tissue factor and protease-activated receptor-1 (PAR-1). In WT, most were CD45
+
myeloid progenitors coexpressing CD31, vascular endothelial growth factor receptor-2 and E-selectin; 10% of these cells coexpressed α-SMA and were recruited to the neointima. In contrast, the α-SMA
+
human TFPI
+
CD34
+
cells recruited in Tg recipients were from a CD45
−
lineage. WT CD34
+
cells incubated with a PAR-1 antagonist or taken from PAR-1-deficient mice inhibited IH as Tg cells did.

Conclusion—

Specific inhibition of thrombin generation or PAR-1 signaling on α-SMA
+
CD34
+
cells inhibits IH and promotes regenerative repair despite ongoing immune-mediated damage.
Child-Mediated Stroke Communication
Authors: Williams Olajide , DeSorbo Alexandra , Noble James , Gerin William
Published: October 2011

Background and Purpose—

Low thrombolysis rates for acute ischemic stroke are linked to delays in seeking immediate treatment due to low public stroke awareness. We aimed to assess whether “Child-Mediated Stroke Communication” could improve stroke literacy of parents of children enrolled in a school-based stroke literacy program called Hip Hop Stroke.

Methods—

Parents of children aged 9 to 12 years from 2 public schools in Harlem, New York City, were recruited to participate in stroke literacy questionnaires before and after their child's participation in Hip Hop Stroke, a novel Child-Mediated Stroke Communication intervention delivered in school auditoriums. Parental recall of stroke information communicated through their child was assessed 1-week after the intervention.

Results—

Fifth and sixth grade students (n=182) were enrolled into Hip Hop Stroke. One hundred two parents were approached in person to participate; 75 opted to participate and 71 completed both the pretest and post-test (74% response rate and 95% retention rate). Parental stroke literacy improved after the program; before the program, 3 parents of 75 (3.9%) were able to identify the 5 cardinal stroke symptoms, distracting symptom (chest pains), and had an urgent action plan (calling 911) compared with 21 of 71 parents (29.6%) postintervention (
P
<0.001). The FAST mnemonic was known by 2 (2.7%) of participants before the program versus 29 (41%) after program completion (
P
<0.001).

Conclusions—

Knowledge of stroke signs and symptoms remains low among residents of this high-risk population. The use of Child-Mediated Stroke Communication suggests that school children aged 9 to 12 years may be effective conduits of critical stroke knowledge to their parents.
Variants on Chromosome 9p21.3 Correlated With
ANRIL
Expression Contribute to Stroke Risk and Recurrence in a Large Prospective Stroke Population
Authors: Zhang Weili , Chen Yu , Liu Peng , Chen Jingzhou , Song Lei , Tang Yue , Wang Yuyao , Liu Jibin , Hu Frank B. , Hui Rutai
Published: October 2011

Background and Purpose—

ANRIL
encodes a long antisense noncoding RNA in the
INK4
locus. Although
ANRIL
has been proven to be associated with coronary heart disease, its roles in stroke are inconsistent, and sparse data are available regarding hemorrhagic stroke.

Methods—

A Chinese case-control study was conducted, comprising 1657 cases (724 atherothrombosis, 466 lacunar infarction, and 462 hemorrhagic strokes) and 1664 controls. Stroke patients were prospectively followed-up for a median of 4.5 (range, 0.1–6.0) years. Expression of
ANRIL
transcripts was examined in 42 human atherosclerotic plaques.

Results—

After adjustment for vascular risk factors and correction for multiple comparisons, subjects carrying the GG genotype of rs10757278 had 1.47-fold (95% CI, 1.11–1.89;
P
=0.05) and 1.60-fold (95% CI, 1.16–2.15;
P
=0.04) increased risk for atherothrombotic and hemorrhagic strokes, respectively. During the follow-up, 317 recurrent strokes and 301 deaths from all causes were documented. Subjects carrying rs10757278GG had higher risk for stroke recurrence (relative risk [RR],1.56; 95% CI,1.15–2.12;
P
=0.005) and cardiovascular mortality (RR, 2.0; 95% CI, 1.26–3.18;
P
=0.003), respectively. Rs10757274 was also associated with stroke risk and recurrence. Family history of stroke further increased the stroke risk by 2.37-fold (95% CI, 1.38–4.06;
P
=0.01) and recurrent stroke risk by 2.45-fold (95% CI, 1.56–3.86;
P
<0.0001) respectively, when compared with those carrying none of G-alleles and without family history. Finally, rs10757278 was associated with differential expression of the
ANRIL
transcripts.

Conclusions—

Our findings indicated that the
ANRIL
may serve as a novel genetic marker for the risk of atherothrombotic and hemorrhagic stroke and their recurrence.
Brain Arteriovenous Malformation Multiplicity Predicts the Diagnosis of Hereditary Hemorrhagic Telangiectasia
Authors: Bharatha Aditya , Faughnan Marie E. , Kim Helen , Pourmohamad Tony , Krings Timo , Bayrak-Toydemir Pinar , Pawlikowska Ludmila , McCulloch Charles E. , Lawton Michael T. , Dowd Christopher F. , Young William L. , Terbrugge Karel G.
Published: October 2011

Background and Purpose—

The purpose of this study was to quantitatively estimate the relationship between multiplicity of brain arteriovenous malformations (bAVMs) and the diagnosis of hereditary hemorrhagic telangiectasia (HHT).

Methods—

We combined databases from 2 large North American bAVM referral centers, including demographics, clinical presentation, and angiographic characteristics, and compared patients with HHT with non-HHT patients. Logistic regression analysis was performed to quantify the association between bAVM multiplicity and odds of HHT diagnosis. Sensitivity, specificity, positive and negative predictive value, and positive and negative likelihood ratios were calculated to determine accuracy of bAVM multiplicity for screening HHT.

Results—

Prevalence of HHT was 2.8% in the combined group. bAVM multiplicity was present in 39% of patients with HHT and was highly associated with diagnosis of HHT in univariate (OR, 83; 95% CI, 40–173;
P
<0.0001) and multivariable (OR, 86; 95% CI, 38–195;
P
<0.001) models adjusting for age at presentation (
P
=0.013), symptomatic presentation (
P
=0.029), and cohort site (
P
=0.021). bAVM multiplicity alone was associated with high specificity (99.2%; 95% CI, 98.7%–99.6%) and negative predictive value (98.3%; 95% CI, 97.6%–98.8%) and low sensitivity (39.3%; 95% CI, 26.5%–53.2%) and positive predictive value (59.5%; 95% CI, 42.1%–75.2%). Positive and negative likelihood ratio was 51 and 0.61, respectively, for diagnosis of HHT. HHT bAVMs were also more often smaller in size (<3 cm), noneloquent in location, and associated with superficial venous drainage compared with non-HHT bAVMs.

Conclusions—

Multiplicity of bAVMs is highly predictive of the diagnosis of HHT. The presence of multiple bAVMs should alert the clinician to the high probability of HHT and lead to comprehensive investigation for this diagnosis.
Animation of Flocks Flying in Line Formations
Authors: Klotsman Marina , Tal Ayellet
Published: October 2011

We provide a biologically motivated technique for modeling and animating bird flocks in flight, which produces plausible and realistic-looking flock animations. While most previous approaches have focused on animating cluster formations, this article introduces a technique for animating flocks that fly in certain patterns, so-called line formations. We distinguish between the behavior of such flocks during initiation and their behavior during steady flight. Our simulation of the initiation stage is rule-based and incorporates an artificial bird model. Our simulation of the steady-flight stage combines a data-driven approach and an energy-savings model.
Evaluation of genotoxicity after application of Listerine® on human lymphocytes by micronucleus and single cell gel electrophoresis assays
Authors: Türkez Hasan , Toğar Başak , Arabacı Taner
Published: October 2011

Listerine (LN) is one of the most commonly used mouth rinses worldwide although very limited information is available concerning its genotoxicity. In another view, the biological safety profile of oral care products is frequently assumed on the basis of simplistic test models. Therefore, the present study was undertaken to investigate the in vitro genotoxic potential of LN using micronucleus and single cell gel electrophoresis tests as genetic endpoints. Different concentrations of LN (0–100% of ml/culture, v/v) were applied to whole human blood cultures ( n = 5). The result of the present study showed that there were no statistically significant differences ( p > 0.05) between the control group and the groups treated with LN alone in both analysed endpoints. In conclusion, our result first demonstrated the absence of genotoxicity of LN on human lymphocytes.
Protective effect of Emblica officinalis (amla) on isoproterenol-induced cardiotoxicity in rats
Authors: Ojha Shreesh , Golechha Mahaveer , Kumari Santosh , Arya Dharamvir Singh
Published: October 2011

Emblica officinalis, commonly known as amla, is an important medicinal plant reputed for its dietary and therapeutic uses. The aim of the present study was to investigate the protective role of E. officinalis against isoproterenol (ISP)-induced cardiotoxicity in rats and elucidate the possible mechanism involved. Rats were administered E. officinalis (100, 250 and 500 mg/kg, p.o.) or vehicle (normal saline) for 30 days, with concurrent subcutaneous injections of ISP (85 mg/kg, at 24 h interval) on 29th and 30th day. ISP-induced cardiac dysfunction as evidenced by decreased mean arterial pressure, heart rate, contractility (+LVdP/dt) and relaxation (−LVdP/dt) along with increased left ventricular end diastolic pressure. ISP significantly ( p < 0.05) decreased antioxidant enzymes, superoxide dismutase, catalase and glutathione peroxidase and myocyte-injury-specific marker enzymes, creatine phosphokinase-MB and lactate dehydrogenase in heart. A significant ( p < 0.05) depletion of reduced glutathione and increase in thiobarbituric acid reactive substances along with histopathological alteration has further indicated the oxidative damage of myocardium. However, pretreatment with E. officinalis exhibited restoration of hemodynamic and left ventricular function along with significant preservation of antioxidants, myocytes-injury-specific marker enzymes and significant inhibition of lipid peroxidation. Furthermore, histopathological salvage of myocardium reconfirmed the protective effects of E. officinalis. Results of the present study demonstrate cardioprotective potential of E. officinalis attributed to its potent antioxidant and free radical scavenging activity as evidenced by favorable improvement in hemodynamic, contractile function and tissue antioxidant status.
DNA and oxidative damage induced in somatic organs and tissues of mouse by municipal sludge leachate
Authors: Bakare Adekunle A , Patel Sushila , Pandey Alok K , Bajpayee Mahima , Dhawan Alok
Published: October 2011

Pollution by waste landfill leachate has prompted a number of studies on the toxic and potential health effects. This study assessed the genotoxicity of a municipal sludge leachate (MSL) in the somatic tissues (blood and bone marrow) and organs (liver, kidney, and spleen) of mice using the alkaline Comet assay. The possible cause of DNA damage via the study of antioxidant system (lipid peroxidation [LPO]; catalase [CAT]; reduced glutathione [GSH]; and superoxide dismutase [SOD]) responses in mouse liver was also investigated. Different concentrations (2.5%, 5%, 10%, and 15%) of the leachate were administered intraperitoneally for 5 consecutive days to male Swiss albino mice (4 mice/group). A significant ( p < 0.05) increase in DNA damage in organs and tissues of treated mice compared to the negative control was observed as evident from the Comet assay parameters: olive tail moment (OTM, arbitrary units) and tail DNA (%). Bone marrow showed maximum DNA damage followed by liver > spleen > kidney > blood as evident by the OTM. A significant increase ( p < 0.05) in the level of antioxidant enzymes (CAT and SOD) and LPO with a concurrent decrease in GSH in the liver of treated mice was also observed. Our finding demonstrates that the MSL induces DNA damage in the somatic tissues and organs of mouse as well as induces oxidative stress in the liver. These tissues and organs may be the potential targets in animal and human populations exposed to MSL. This is of relevance to public health; as such exposure could lead to adverse health effects via systemic genotoxicity.