bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Modeling the Mousetrap Car
Authors: Jumper William D.
Published: February 2012

Many high school and introductory college physics courses make use of mousetrap car projects and competitions as a way of providing an engaging hands-on learning experience incorporating Newton's laws, conversion of potential to kinetic energy, dissipative forces, and rotational mechanics. Presented here is a simple analytical and finite element spreadsheet model for a typical mousetrap car, as shown in Fig. 1. It is hoped that the model will provide students with a tool for designing or modifying the designs of their cars, provide instructors with a means to insure students close the loop between physical principles and an understanding of their car's speed and distance performance, and, third, stimulate in students at an early stage an appreciation for the merits of computer modeling as an aid in understanding and tackling otherwise analytically intractable problems so common in today's professional world.
Encouraging Student Participation in Large Astronomy Courses
Authors: Willoughby Shannon D.
Published: February 2012

Introductory astronomy is one of the most widely taught classes in the country1 and the majority of the students who take these classes are non-science majors. Because this demographic of students makes up the majority of astronomy enrollments, it is especially important as instructors that we do our best to make sure these students don't finish this course thinking that they can't do science, that only experts can understand scientific concepts, or that science is just an elaborate belief system. Ideally, at least some classroom time would be spent having the students use skills they already possess to explore concepts about astronomy. Realistically, we understand the time constraints and pressures felt by the average college instructor and the incredible amount of time and energy that can be required to rework a course.
So Why Would a Pigeon Stand on One Leg (or Limp Without Hurting)?
Authors: Hrepic Zdeslav
Published: February 2012

While we still do not have a definitive answer about the reason(s) for which birds stand on one leg,1 a list of suggestions has been offered both by expert ornithologists and amateur birdwatchers. We offer a perspective grounded in statics and rotational dynamics that has not been suggested in the literature. The discussion has implications for bird study, and it can also be used as a rich context for teaching statics and dynamics topics at levels ranging from conceptual courses to advanced mechanics.
Gamow on Newton: Another Look at Centripetal Acceleration
Authors: Corrao Christian
Published: February 2012

Presented here is an adaptation of George Gamow's derivation of the centripetal acceleration formula as it applies to Earth's orbiting Moon. The derivation appears in Gamows short but engaging book Gravity,1 first published in 1962, and is essentially a distillation of Newton's work. While TPT contributors have offered several insightful derivations of the formula,2,3 students might find this “real world” version more accessible. In addition, this particular derivation requires a durable understanding of both the Galilean equations and Newtonian laws of motion, and therefore serves as review of these key concepts.
Empowering Technology and POETRY Supporting Scientific Inquiry: Investigating the Motion of a Rebounding Trolley
Authors: Urban-Woldron Hildegard
Published: February 2012

The recent implementation of technology in the classroom is probably one of the most challenging innovations that many teachers are having to confront today. Teachers have to develop a knowledge base that goes beyond technology proficiency, into learning about how technology, for example, can be used for various forms of representations of subject matters. This article aims to report on the investigation of the motion of a rebounding trolley, bringing together physics content, pedagogy, and technology to enhance student thinking and construction of knowledge. The activity, called “Rebounding Trolley,” uses data logging and helps to emphasize the idea that velocity and acceleration can be in opposite directions.
Analyzing free fall with a smartphone acceleration sensor
Authors: Vogt Patrik , Kuhn Jochen
Published: February 2012

This paper provides a first example of experiments in this column using smartphones as experimental tools. More examples concerning this special tool will follow in the next issues. The differences between a smartphone and a “regular” cell phone are that smartphones offer more advanced computing ability and connectivity. Smartphones combine the functions of personal digital assistants (PDAs) and cell phones.
Toward a Meningitis-Free World
Authors: Black Steven , Pizza Mariagrazia , Nissum Mikkel , Rappuoli Rino
Published: February 2012

A conjugate vaccine against the A, C, W, and Y, serogroups of meningococcus and a protein-based vaccine against serogroup B should bring to an end the scourge of meninogococcal meningitis.
Science Translational Medicine
Podcast: 29 February 2012
Authors: Higgins John , Frisk Megan
Published: February 2012

A conversation with John Higgins about a microfluidic device for diagnosing sickle cell disease severity.
Joule Thief?
Authors: Mashour George A.
Published: February 2012

The scaffold protein tamalin plays a critical role in the neuroplasticity triggered by electroconvulsive shock.
Rx: An Anti-Obesity Probiotic
Authors: Reznik Marina
Published: February 2012

A plant-derived bacterium decreases body weight gain and fatty liver in obese mice fed a high-fat diet.
Genetic Reporter System for Positioning of Proteins at the Bacterial Pole
Authors: Fixen Kathryn R. , Janakiraman Anuradha , Garrity Sean , Slade Daniel J. , Gray Andrew N. , Karahan Nilay , Hochschild Ann , Goldberg Marcia B.
Published: February 2012

Spatial organization within bacteria is fundamental to many cellular processes, although the basic mechanisms underlying localization of proteins to specific sites within bacteria are poorly understood. The study of protein positioning has been limited by a paucity of methods that allow rapid large-scale screening for mutants in which protein positioning is altered. We developed a genetic reporter system for protein localization to the pole within the bacterial cytoplasm that allows saturation screening for mutants in
Escherichia coli
in which protein localization is altered. Utilizing this system, we identify proteins required for proper positioning of the
Shigella
autotransporter IcsA. Autotransporters, widely distributed bacterial virulence proteins, are secreted at the bacterial pole. We show that the conserved cell division protein FtsQ is required for localization of IcsA and other autotransporters to the pole. We demonstrate further that this system can be applied to the study of proteins other than autotransporters that display polar positioning within bacterial cells.

IMPORTANCE
Many proteins localize to specific sites within bacterial cells, and localization to these sites is frequently critical to proper protein function. The mechanisms that underlie protein localization are incompletely understood, in part because of the paucity of methods that allow saturation screening for mutants in which protein localization is altered. We developed a genetic reporter assay that enables screening of bacterial populations for changes in localization of proteins to the bacterial pole, and we demonstrate the utility of the system in identifying factors required for proper localization of the polar
Shigella
autotransporter protein IcsA. Using this method, we identify the conserved cell division protein FtsQ as being required for positioning of IcsA to the bacterial pole. We demonstrate further that the requirement for FtsQ for polar positioning applies to other autotransporters and that the method can be applied to polar proteins other than autotransporters.
Evaluation of a systematic postal screening and treatment service for genitalChlamydia trachomatis, with remote clinic access via the internet: a cross-sectional study, East of England
Authors: Bracebridge Samantha , Bachmann Max Oscar , Ramkhelawon Krishna , Woolnough Alison
Published: February 2012

Objective

England's National Chlamydia Screening Programme provides opportunistic testing for all 15–24-year-olds in healthcare and non-healthcare settings. The authors undertook an evaluation of a population service-based postal chlamydia screening and treatment service, with registration and access to the service via the internet, in order to target screening interventions more effectively in future.

Methods

Individuals aged between 18 and 24 years, within the North East Essex Primary Care Trust, were identified for chlamydia screening by the service between 1 December 2008 and 31 January 2009. Associations between test uptake and positivity, and individuals' personal characteristics, were examined. The efficacy of partner notification was estimated, and the costs of screening were compared with the national average.

Results

Uptake of chlamydia screening was 11.5%, with lower response rates among men, individuals older than 20 years and those living in more deprived areas. The chlamydia positivity was 4.4% and higher in those reporting multiple sexual partners, individuals older than 20 years and those living in more deprived areas. The proportion of partners notified per index case was 0.17. The service contributed to 3431 of the overall 11 209 annual chlamydia screens of the Primary Care Trust in 2008–2009, at a cost of £78 per screening test completed and £1764 per case detected.

Conclusions

Our evaluation shows that this service model can contribute substantially to the overall coverage of chlamydia screening tests. However, the costs of service provision per case detected and treated, using this model, were high compared to the National Chlamydia Screening Programme.
PROPERTIES OF $b\bar{b}$ MESONS IN CONSTITUENT QUARK MODELS
Authors: CHEN SHAONA , PING JIALUN
Published: February 2012

The properties of bottomonia are investigated in detail in the constituent quark model. The wave functions of bottomonia are obtained by solving Dirac equation and Schrödinger equation. The potentials between quark and antiquark include color confinement (linear and quadratic) and one-gluon-exchange. Based on the obtained wave functions, the electromagnetic and two-photon decay, electric dipole transition, and hadronic width of bottomonia are calculated. The calculated results are in a good agreement with the experimental data. The results also show that the nonrelativistic and relativistic version of quark model can all describe the properties of bottomonia.
CUBIC NEUTRONS
Authors: LLANES-ESTRADA FELIPE J. , NAVARRO GASPAR MORENO
Published: February 2012

The neutron is largely spherical and incompressible in atomic nuclei. These two properties are however challenged in the extreme pressure environment of a neutron star. Our variational computation within the Cornell model of Coulomb gauge QCD shows that the neutron (and also the Δ3/2 baryon) can adopt cubic symmetry at an energy cost of about 150 MeV. Balancing this with the free energy gained by tighter neutron packing, we expose the possible softening of the equation of state of neutron matter.
THE STUDY OF THE NUCLEUS–NUCLEUS INTERACTION POTENTIAL FOR 16O+27Al AND 16O+28Si FUSION REACTIONS
Authors: GHODSI O. N. , GHARAEI R.
Published: February 2012

Using the Monte Carlo simulation method accompanied by the modifying effects of the density distributions overlapping, we have examined the nuclear matter incompressibility effects for asymmetric systems with light nuclei, namely 16 O +27 Al and 16 O +28 Si fusion reactions. The obtained results show that the nuclear equation of state has considerable influence on the calculation of fusion probabilities for these asymmetric systems.
THE ONE-LOOP APPROXIMATION OF THE TRANSITION AMPLITUDE IN KREIN SPACE QUANTIZATION
Authors: DEHMAJNOONI MITRA SAHRAEE , BEHROOZI SAMAD
Published: February 2012

An explicit calculation of the transition amplitude in the one-loop approximation in Krein space quantization, has been presented in this paper. As we know the loop integrals in the Feynman diagrams will be often diverged, so it is needed to introduce a regulator (Renormalization condition). In Ref. 1 the λϕ4 theory in Krein space has been considered, it has been proved that the disappearance of the ultraviolet divergence to the one-loop approximation is the direct result of Krein space quantization method. Here it is shown that the transition amplitude in the one-loop approximation in Krein space is finite, and its quantity has been calculated. So the theory is automatically regularized.
DYNAMICAL SYMMETRIES OF DIRAC HAMILTONIAN
Authors: RIAZUDDIN
Published: February 2012

Several dynamical symmetries of the Dirac Hamiltonian are reviewed and the conditions under which such symmetries hold are considered. These include relativistic spin and orbital angular momentum symmetries, SO (4)× SU σ(2) symmetry for generalized relativistic hydrogen atom that includes an extra Lorentz scalar potential, SU (3)× SU σ(2) symmetry for the relativistic simple harmonic oscillator. The energy spectrum in each case is calculated from group-theoretic considerations.
ON COHOMOLOGY OF NILPOTENT SYMPLECTIC LIE ALGEBRAS OF DIM. ≤ 6 AND DEFORMATION OF THOSE OF DIM. ≤ 4
Authors: MOUNA F. , BOUETOU T. B. , NGUIFFO M. B.
Published: February 2012

This work is devoted to the result on symplectic nilpotent Lie algebras classified in a paper by [Y. Khakimdjanov, M. Goze and A. Medina, Symplectic or contact structures on Lie groups, Differential Geom. Appl. 21 (2004) 41–54]. We focus the attention on the investigation of their cohomology groups by using algebra tools. We give also an overview of deformation to those algebras of dim. ≤ 4.
A review of the Ediacaran to Early Cambrian (‘Infra-Cambrian’) evaporites and associated sediments of the Middle East
Authors: Smith A. G.
Published: February 2012

The paper reviews the age, location and extent of the late Neoproterozoic to Early Cambrian evaporite basins in the Middle East, NW India and Pakistan. The stratigraphic section discussed includes the largest inorganic negative δ
13
C excursion known (in the Shuram Formation); six cycles of alternating evaporites and carbonate (Ara Formation) and a unique formation in the middle of the Ara known as the Al Shomou silicilyte, which is a major hydrocarbon source. Tuff/volcanic horizons within the Ara are very well dated, with a precision of <0.15 myr. Extensional faulting was contemporaneous with the deposition of the evaporites, creating basins that at times showed density stratification and anoxia. The Buah Formation, which underlies the Ara, provides an insight into the development of Ediacaran carbonate ramp systems in the absence of bioturbation. A reconstruction of Gondwana brings the Ara and the Hormuz evaporites close to the evaporites of NW India and Pakistan, but leaves a small gap between them, which was probably occupied by a continental sliver, mostly likely part of the Lut block of central Iran. The Ara-Hormuz basins lie on the edge of a major continental collision between India and east Africa that was part of the amalgamation of east Gondwana.
Pomegranate juice and punicalagin attenuate oxidative stress and apoptosis in human placenta and in human placental trophoblasts
Authors: Chen Baosheng , Tuuli Methodius G. , Longtine Mark S. , Shin Joong Sik , Lawrence Russell , Inder Terrie , Michael Nelson D.
Published: February 2012

The human placenta is key to pregnancy outcome, and the elevated oxidative stress present in many complicated pregnancies contributes to placental dysfunction and suboptimal pregnancy outcomes. We tested the hypothesis that pomegranate juice, which is rich in polyphenolic antioxidants, limits placental trophoblast injury in vivo and in vitro. Pregnant women with singleton pregnancies were randomized at 35∼38 wk gestation to 8 oz/day of pomegranate juice or apple juice (placebo) until the time of delivery. Placental tissues from 12 patients (4 in the pomegranate group and 8 in the control group) were collected for analysis of oxidative stress. The preliminary in vivo results were extended to oxidative stress and cell death assays in vitro. Placental explants and cultured primary human trophoblasts were exposed to pomegranate juice or glucose (control) under defined oxygen tensions and chemical stimuli. We found decreased oxidative stress in term human placentas from women who labored after prenatal ingestion of pomegranate juice compared with apple juice as control. Moreover, pomegranate juice reduced in vitro oxidative stress, apoptosis, and global cell death in term villous explants and primary trophoblast cultures exposed to hypoxia, the hypoxia mimetic cobalt chloride, and the kinase inhibitor staurosporine. Punicalagin, but not ellagic acid, both prominent polyphenols in pomegranate juice, reduced oxidative stress and stimulus-induced apoptosis in cultured syncytiotrophoblasts. We conclude that pomegranate juice reduces placental oxidative stress in vivo and in vitro while limiting stimulus-induced death of human trophoblasts in culture. The polyphenol punicalagin mimics this protective effect. We speculate that antenatal intake of pomegranate may limit placental injury and thereby may confer protection to the exposed fetus.
CB1 antagonism restores hepatic insulin sensitivity without normalization of adiposity in diet-induced obese dogs
Authors: Kim Stella P. , Woolcott Orison O. , Hsu Isabel R. , Stefanoski Darko , Harrison L. Nicole , Zheng Dan , Lottati Maya , Kolka Cathryn , Catalano Karyn J. , Chiu Jenny D. , Kabir Morvarid , Ionut Viorica , Bergman Richard N. , Richey Joyce M.
Published: February 2012

The endocannabinoid system is highly implicated in the development of insulin resistance associated with obesity. It has been shown that antagonism of the CB1 receptor improves insulin sensitivity (SI). However, it is unknown whether this improvement is due to the direct effect of CB1 blockade on peripheral tissues or secondary to decreased fat mass. Here, we examine in the canine dog model the longitudinal changes in SI and fat deposition when obesity was induced with a high-fat diet (HFD) and animals were treated with the CB1 antagonist rimonabant. SI was assessed ( n = 20) in animals fed a HFD for 6 wk to establish obesity. Thereafter, while HFD was continued for 16 additional weeks, animals were divided into two groups: rimonabant (1.25 mg·kg−1·day−1 RIM; n = 11) and placebo ( n = 9). Euglycemic hyperinsulinemic clamps were performed to evaluate changes in insulin resistance and glucose turnover before HFD ( week −6) after HFD but before treatment ( week 0) and at weeks 2, 6, 12, and 16 of treatment (or placebo) + HFD. Magnetic resonance imaging was performed to determine adiposity- related changes in SI. Animals developed significant insulin resistance and increased visceral and subcutaneous adiposity after 6 wk of HFD. Treatment with RIM resulted in a modest decrease in total trunk fat with relatively little change in peripheral glucose uptake. However, there was significant improvement in hepatic insulin resistance after only 2 wk of RIM treatment with a concomitant increase in plasma adiponectin levels; both were maintained for the duration of the RIM treatment. CB1 receptor antagonism appears to have a direct effect on hepatic insulin sensitivity that may be mediated by adiponectin and independent of pronounced reductions in body fat. However, the relatively modest effect on peripheral insulin sensitivity suggests that significant improvements may be secondary to reduced fat mass.
Gain control in the response of human visual cortex to plaids
Authors: McDonald J. Scott , Mannion Damien J. , Clifford Colin W. G.
Published: February 2012

A recent intrinsic signal optical imaging study in tree shrew showed, surprisingly, that the population response of V1 to plaid patterns comprising grating components of equal contrast is predicted by the average of the responses to the individual components (MacEvoy SP, Tucker TR, Fitzpatrick D. Nat Neurosci 12: 637–645, 2009). This prompted us to compare responses to plaids and gratings in human visual cortex as a function of contrast and orientation. We found that the functional MRI (fMRI) blood oxygenation level-dependent (BOLD) responses of areas V1–V3 to a plaid comprising superposed grating components of equal contrast are significantly higher than the responses to a single component. Furthermore, the orientation response profile of a plaid is poorly predicted from a linear combination of the responses to its components. Together, these results indicate that the model of MacEvoy et al. (2009) cannot, without modification, account for the fMRI BOLD response to plaids in human visual cortex.
Modulating locomotor adaptation with cerebellar stimulation
Authors: Jayaram Gowri , Tang Byron , Pallegadda Rani , Vasudevan Erin V. L. , Celnik Pablo , Bastian Amy
Published: February 2012

Human locomotor adaptation is necessary to maintain flexibility of walking. Several lines of research suggest that the cerebellum plays a critical role in motor adaptation. In this study we investigated the effects of noninvasive stimulation of the cerebellum to enhance locomotor adaptation. We found that anodal cerebellar transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) applied during adaptation expedited the adaptive process while cathodal cerebellar tDCS slowed it down, without affecting the rate of de-adaptation of the new locomotor pattern. Interestingly, cerebellar tDCS affected the adaptation rate of spatial but not temporal elements of walking. It may be that spatial and temporal control mechanisms are accessible through different neural circuits. Our results suggest that tDCS could be used as a tool to modulate locomotor training in neurological patients with gait impairments.
Microstructural organizational patterns in the human corticostriatal system
Authors: Verstynen Timothy D. , Badre David , Jarbo Kevin , Schneider Walter
Published: February 2012

The axons that project into the striatum are known to segregate according to macroscopic cortical systems; however, the within-region organization of these fibers has yet to be described in humans. We used in vivo fiber tractography, in neurologically healthy adults, to map white matter bundles that originate in different neocortical areas, navigate complex fiber crossings, and project into the striatum. As expected, these fibers were generally segregated according to cortical origin. Within a subset of pathways, a patched pattern of inputs was observed, consistent with previous ex vivo histological studies. In projections from the prefrontal cortex, we detected a topography in which fibers from rostral prefrontal areas projected mostly to rostral parts of the striatum and vice versa for inputs originating in caudal cortical areas. Importantly, within this prefrontal system there was also an asymmetry in the subset of divergent projections, with more fibers projecting in a posterior direction than anterior. This asymmetry of information projecting into the basal ganglia was predicted by previous network-level computational models. A rostral-caudal topography was also present at the local level in otherwise somatotopically organized fibers projecting from the motor cortex. This provides clear evidence that the longitudinal organization of input fields, observed at the macroscopic level across cortical systems, is also found at the microstructural scale at which information is segregated as it enters the human basal ganglia.
Mouse Ficolin B Has an Ability to Form Complexes with Mannose-Binding Lectin-Associated Serine Proteases and Activate Complement through the Lectin Pathway
Authors: Endo Yuichi , Iwaki Daisuke , Ishida Yumi , Takahashi Minoru , Matsushita Misao , Fujita Teizo
Published: February 2012

Ficolins are thought to be pathogen-associated-molecular-pattern-(PAMP-) recognition molecules that function to support innate immunity. Like mannose-binding lectins (MBLs), most mammalian ficolins form complexes with MBL-associated serine proteases (MASPs), leading to complement activationviathe lectin pathway. However, the ability of murine ficolin B, a homologue of human M-ficolin, to perform this function is still controversial. The results of the present study show that ficolin B in mouse bone marrow is an oligomeric protein. Ficolin B, pulled down using GlcNAc-agarose, contained very low, but detectable, amounts of MASP-2 and small MBL-associated protein (sMAP) and showed detectable C4-deposition activity on immobilizedN-acetylglucosamine. These biochemical features of ficolin B were confirmed using recombinant mouse ficolin B produced in CHO cells. Taken together, these results suggest that like other mammalian homologues, murine ficolin B has an ability to exert its functionviathe lectin pathway.
Transient Silencing of a Type IV P-Type ATPase,Atp10c, Results in Decreased Glucose Uptake in C2C12 Myotubes
Authors: Hurst S. E. , Minkin S. C. , Biggerstaff J. , Dhar M. S.
Published: February 2012

Atp10cis a strong candidate gene for diet-induced obesity and type 2 diabetes. To identify molecular and cellular targets of ATP10C,Atp10cexpression was alteredin vitroin C2C12 skeletal muscle myotubes by transient transfection with anAtp10c-specific siRNA. Glucose uptake assays revealed that insulin stimulation caused a significant 2.54-fold decrease in 2-deoxyglucose uptake in transfected cells coupled with a significant upregulation of native mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPKs), p38, and p44/42. Additionally, glucose transporter-1 (GLUT1) was significantly upregulated; no changes in glucose transporter-4 (GLUT4) expression were observed. The involvement of MAPKs was confirmed using the specific inhibitor SB203580, which downregulated the expression of native and phosphorylated MAPK proteins in transfected cells without any changes in insulin-stimulated glucose uptake. Results indicate thatAtp10cregulates glucose metabolism, at least in part via the MAPK pathway, and, thus, plays a significant role in the development of insulin resistance and type 2 diabetes.
Derivatives of the Berezin Transform
Authors: Bommier-Hato Hélène
Published: February 2012

For a rotation invariant domainΩ, we considerA2(Ω,μ)the Bergman space and we investigate some properties of the rank one projectionA(z):=〈⋅,kz〉kz. We prove that the trace of all the strong derivatives ofA(z) is zero. We also focus on the generalized Fock spaceA2(μm), whereμmis the measure with weighte-|z|m,m>0, with respect to the Lebesgue measure onℂnand establish estimations of derivatives of the Berezin transform of a bounded operatorTonA2(μm).
Ischemia-Reperfusion Injury and Ischemic-Type Biliary Lesions following Liver Transplantation
Authors: Cursio Raffaele , Gugenheim Jean
Published: February 2012

Ischemia-reperfusion (I-R) injury after liver transplantation (LT) induces intra- and/or extrahepatic nonanastomotic ischemic-type biliary lesions (ITBLs). Subsequent bile duct stricture is a significant cause of morbidity and even mortality in patients who underwent LT. Although the pathogenesis of ITBLs is multifactorial, there are three main interconnected mechanisms responsible for their formation: cold and warm I-R injury, injury induced by cytotoxic bile salts, and immunological-mediated injury. Cold and warm ischemic insult can induce direct injury to the cholangiocytes and/or damage to the arterioles of the peribiliary vascular plexus, which in turn leads to apoptosis and necrosis of the cholangiocytes. Liver grafts from suboptimal or extended-criteria donors are more susceptible to cold and warm I-R injury and develop more easily ITBLs than normal livers. This paper, focusing on liver I-R injury, reviews the risk factors and mechanisms leading to ITBLs following LT.
Optical and Morphological Properties of ZnO- and TiO2-Derived Nanostructures Synthesized via a Microwave-Assisted Hydrothermal Method
Authors: Moloto Nosipho , Mpelane Siyasanga , Sikhwivhilu Lucky M. , Sinha Ray Suprakas
Published: February 2012

A microwave-assisted hydrothermal method was used to synthesize ZnO and TiO2nanostructures. The experimental results show that the method resulted in crystalline monodispersed ZnO nanorods that have pointed tips with hexagonal crystal phase. TiO2nanotubes were also formed with minimum bundles. The mechanism for the formation of the tubes was validated by HRTEM results. The optical properties of both ZnO and TiO2nanostructures showed characteristics of strong quantum confinement regime. The photoluminescence spectrum of TiO2nanotubes shows good improvement from previously reported data.
“The Meaning of Life” during a Transition from Modernity to Transhumanism and Posthumanity
Authors: Hellsten Sirkku K.
Published: February 2012

The articles argues that due to the rapid development of new technology the boundaries of life and death, as well as the different phases of our physical, social and spiritual life are getting less clear-cut and evident than they have been before in the Western, traditionally dualistic cultural and historical experience. Thus, at the moment we are in a transitional stage in our understanding of “human life” is gaining new dimensions in form of “post-humanism” and “trans-humanism”. The current neo-holistic view of the universe and the human place in it requires us to consider the “existential risks” and seriously ponder the effects of the technological evolution to our social, cultural, ethical and metaphysical frameworks and normative principles.
AS601245, an Anti-Inflammatory JNK Inhibitor, and Clofibrate Have a Synergistic Effect in Inducing Cell Responses and in Affecting the Gene Expression Profile in CaCo-2 Colon Cancer Cells
Authors: Cerbone Angelo , Toaldo Cristina , Pizzimenti Stefania , Pettazzoni Piergiorgio , Dianzani Chiara , Minelli Rosalba , Ciamporcero Eric , Roma Guglielmo , Dianzani Mario Umberto , Canaparo Roberto , Ferretti Carlo , Barrera Giuseppina
Published: February 2012

PPARαs are nuclear receptors highly expressed in colon cells. They can be activated by the fibrates (clofibrate, ciprofibrate etc.) used to treat hyperlipidemia. Since PPARαtranscriptional activity can be negatively regulated by JNK, the inhibition of JNK activity could increase the effectiveness of PPARαligands. We analysed the effects of AS601245 (a JNK inhibitor) and clofibrate alone or in association, on proliferation, apoptosis, differentiation and the gene expression profile of CaCo-2 human colon cancer cells. Proliferation was inhibited in a dose-dependent way by clofibrate and AS601245. Combined treatment synergistically reduced cell proliferation, cyclin D1 and PCNA expression and induced apoptosis and differentiation. Reduction of cell proliferation, accompanied by the modulation of p21 expression was observed in HepG2 cells, also. Gene expression analysis revealed that some genes were highly modulated by the combined treatment and 28 genes containing PPRE were up-regulated, while clofibrate alone was ineffective. Moreover, STAT3 signalling was strongly reduced by combined treatment. After combined treatment, the binding of PPARαto PPRE increased and paralleled with the expression of the PPAR coactivator MED1. Results demonstrate that combined treatment increases the effectiveness of both compounds and suggest a positive interaction between PPARαligands and anti-inflammatory agents in humans.
Drugs and Constipation in Elderly in Nursing Homes: What Is the Relation?
Authors: Fosnes Gunvor S. , Lydersen Stian , Farup Per G.
Published: February 2012

Introduction. Constipation is a common adverse drug reaction.Objective. Study associations between drugs and constipation in nursing home residents.Design. Cross-sectional study.Material and Methods. Nursing home residents above 60 years of age were included. Demographics, diet, physical activity, activity of daily living, nutritional status, use of drugs, and diseases were recorded. Constipation was defined as functional constipation or constipation-predominant IBS according to the Rome III criteria and/or regular use of laxatives. Drugs were classified according to the Anatomical-Therapeutic-Chemical Classification System (ATC), and anticholinergic effect was noted.Results. In all, 79 men and 188 women with a mean age of 85.4 (SD 7.1) years were included. The prevalence of constipation was 71.5%. Use of drugs in general, including polypharmacy, was not associated with constipation. Reduced activity of daily living (OR = 0.71, 95% CI : 0.60–0.84,P<0.001),other antidepressants(N06AX) (OR 3.08, 95% CI : 1.09–8.68,P=0.03), andbenzodiazepine derivatives(N05BA) (OR = 2.80, 95% CI : 1.12–7.04,P=0.03) were significantly associated with constipation; drugs with markedly anticholinergic effect (OR = 3.7, 95% CI : 0.78–17.53,P=0.10),natural opium alkaloid(N02AA) (OR = 5.01, 95% CI : 0.95–25.94,P=0.06), andpropionic acid derivatives(M01AE) (OR = 7.00, 95% CI : 0.75–65.08,P=0.09) showed a trend.Conclusion.In elderly with constipation, focus should be on specific groups of drugs and nonpharmacological factors, not on drugs in general.
The Effects of Green Tea Consumption on Cardiometabolic Alterations Induced by Experimental Diabetes
Authors: Fiorino Patricia , Evangelista Fabiana Sant'Anna , Santos Fernando , Magri Fátima Maria Motter , Delorenzi Jan Carlo Morais O. B. , Ginoza Milton , Farah Vera
Published: February 2012

We evaluated cardiac autonomic modulation by heart rate (HRV), and arterial pressure variability (APV), and metabolic response in streptozotocin diabetic rats treated with green tea. Male Wistar rats were separated in groups: control, drinking tap water (C), green tea-treated (GT) group, diabetic, drinking tap water (D), and diabetic, treated with green tea (DGT). Kidney mass was greater in D and DGT than in C and GT, but reduced in DGT compared to D. Green tea prevented the increase in creatinine clearance and reduced hyperglycemia in DGT compared to D. Arterial pressure was increased in GT and decreased in D compared to C. HRV was reduced in D compared with all groups. APV was decreased in D compared to C and recovery in DGT. Sympathetic modulation of APV was decreased in D compared with all groups. Green tea reduced hyperglycemia, prevented renal injury and autonomic dysfunction, suggesting reduced cardiovascular risk and target organ damage in diabetes.
Control and Evaluation of Slow‐Active Suspensions with Preview for a Full Car
Authors: ElMadany Mohamed M.
Published: February 2012

An optimal control design method based on the use of the correlation between the front and rear wheel inputs (wheelbase preview) is introduced and then applied to the optimum design of a slow‐active suspension system. The suspension consists of a limited bandwidth actuator in series with a passive spring, the combination being in parallel with a passive damper. A three‐dimensional seven degrees of freedom car riding model subjected to four correlated random road inputs is considered. The performance potential of the limited bandwidth system with wheelbase preview in comparison with the nonpreview (uncorrelated inputs) case is investigated.
Fixed Point Theorems and Uniqueness of the Periodic Solutionfor the Hematopoiesis Models
Authors: Wu Jun , Liu Yicheng
Published: February 2012

We present some results to the existence and uniqueness of
the periodic solutions for the hematopoiesis models which are described by the functional
differential equations with multiple delays. Our methods are based on the equivalent
norm techniques and a new fixed point theorem in the continuous function space.
Randomised Comparison of the AMBU AuraOnce Laryngeal Mask and the LMA Unique Laryngeal Mask Airway in Spontaneously Breathing Adults
Authors: Williams Daryl Lindsay , Zeng James M. , Alexander Karl D. , Andrews David T.
Published: February 2012

We conducted a randomised single-blind controlled trial comparing the LMA-Unique (LMAU) and the AMBU AuraOnce (AMBU) disposable laryngeal mask in spontaneously breathing adult patients undergoing general anaesthesia. Eighty-two adult patients (ASA status I–IV) were randomly allocated to receive the LMAU or AMBU and were blinded to device selection. Patients received a standardized anesthetic and all airway devices were inserted by trained anaesthetists. Size selection was guided by manufacturer recommendations. All data were collected by a single, unblinded observer. When compared with the LMAU, the AMBU produced significantly higher airway sealing pressures (AMBU20±6; LMAU15±7 cm H2O;P=0.001). There was no statistical difference between the two devices for overall success rate, insertion time, number of adjustments, laryngeal alignment, blood-staining, and sore throat (P≥0.05). The AMBU AuraOnce disposable laryngeal mask provided a higher oropharyngeal leak pressure compared to the LMA Unique in spontaneously breathing adult patients.
Insects of the Subfamily Scolytinae (Insecta: Coleoptera, Curculionidae) Collected with Pitfall and Ethanol Traps in Primary Forests of Central Amazonia
Authors: de Abreu Raimunda Liege Souza , Ribeiro Greicilany de Araújo , Vianez Bazilio Frasco , Sales-Campos Ceci
Published: February 2012

An experiment was conducted in a primary forest area of the Tropical Forest Experimental Station, 45 km from Manaus-Boa Vista Highway, in order to compare the insect fauna of the subfamily Scolytinae, in flight activity and on the ground. Five impact traps of the type Escolitideo/Curitiba, with ethanol baits, were installed at the height of 3 m above the ground, and five pitfall traps were buried in the same area of the above ground traps. The data collections were evaluated through abundance, richness, and Simpson diversity index, and, to compare these data with the pitfalls and the months collection, the ANOVA was used. The Pearson correlation test was also carried out to evaluate the meteorological factors (temperature and rainfall). From the total of 2,910 Scolytinae, 2,341 were captured in pitfall traps representing 80.45% and 569 with Escolitideo/Curitiba traps representing 19.55%. The most abundant species in the collections wereXyleborus volvulusFabricius andXyleborus affinisEichhoff, and this was classified as constant in both habitats. The result of the analysis indicates that the Simpson’s index was high and that the abundance of insects was affected by the types of trap and by the month of collection. The analysis of correlation with meteorological factors showed that onlyXyleborus spinulosusspecies presented significant correlation with temperature.
Carbohydrate Elimination or Adaptation Diet for Symptoms of Intestinal Discomfort in IBD: Rationales for “Gibsons’ Conundrum”
Authors: Fung Q. Manyan , Szilagyi Andrew
Published: February 2012

Therapeutic use of carbohydrates in inflammatory bowel diseases (IBDs) is discussed from two theoretical, apparent diametrically opposite perspectives: regular ingestion of prebiotics or withdrawal of virtually all carbohydrate components. Pathogenesis of IBD is discussed connecting microbial flora, host immunity, and genetic interactions. The best studied genetic example, NOD2 in Crohn’s disease, is highlighted as a model which encompasses these interactions and has been shown to depend on butyrate for normal function. The role of these opposing concepts in management of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is contrasted with what is known in IBD. The conclusion reached is that, while both approaches may alleviate symptoms in both IBS and IBD, there is insufficient data yet to determine whether both approaches lead to equivalent bacterial effects in mollifying the immune system. This is particularly relevant in IBD. As such, caution is urged to use long-term carbohydrate withdrawal in IBD in remission to control IBS-like symptoms.
Descending Necrotising Mediastinitis: A Case Report Illustrating a Trend in Conservative Management
Authors: Jayasekera B. A. P. , Dale O. T. , Corbridge R. C.
Published: February 2012

The mortality rate from descending necrotising mediastinitis (DNM) has declined since its first description in 1938. The decline in mortality has been attributed to earlier diagnosis by way of contrast-enhanced computed tomographic (CT) scanning and aggressive surgical intervention in the form of transthoracic drainage. We describe a case of DNM with involvement of anterior and posterior mediastinum down to the diaphragm, managed by cervicotomy and transverse cervical drainage with placement of corrugated drains and a pleural chest drain, with a delayed mediastinoscopy and mediastinal drain placement. We advocate a conservative approach with limited debridement and emphasis on drainage of infection in line with published case series.
Galling Aphids (Hemiptera: Aphidoidea) in China: Diversity and Host Specificity
Authors: Chen Jing , Qiao Ge-Xia
Published: February 2012

Gall formation is an interesting plant response to aphid feeding. This paper presents a review of galling aphids in China. Altogether, 157 species and subspecies in ten families and subfamilies are found to induce galls on their host plants. As many as 39% species are endemic to China. The Eriosomatinae include the highest percentage of gall-inducing species. The great diversity of gall morphology may be described in terms of five characteristics: type, site, size, shape, and structure. The host association and host specificity of galling aphids are also discussed.
Convex Polyhedron Method to Stability of Continuous Systems with Two Additive Time‐Varying Delay Components
Authors: Li Tiejun , Tian Junkang
Published: February 2012

This paper is concerned with delay‐dependent stability for continuous systems with two additive time‐varying delay components. By constructing a new class of Lyapunov functional and using a new convex polyhedron method, a new delay‐dependent stability criterion is derived in terms of linear matrix inequalities. The obtained stability criterion is less conservative than some existing ones. Finally, numerical examples are given to illustrate the effectiveness of the proposed method.
New Insights into the Role of Peroxisome Proliferator-Activated Receptors in Regulating the Inflammatory Response after Tissue Injury
Authors: Neher Miriam D. , Weckbach Sebastian , Huber-Lang Markus S. , Stahel Philip F.
Published: February 2012

Major trauma results in a strong inflammatory response in injured tissue. This posttraumatic hyperinflammation has been implied in the adverse events leading to a breakdown of host defense mechanisms and ultimately to delayed organ failure. Ligands to peroxisome proliferator-activated receptors (PPARs) have recently been identified as potent modulators of inflammation in various acute and chronic inflammatory conditions. The main mechanism of action mediated by ligand binding to PPARs is the inhibition of the nuclear transcription factor NF-κB, leading to downregulation of downstream gene transcription, such as for genes encoding proinflammatory cytokines. Pharmacological PPAR agonists exert strong anti-inflammatory properties in various animal models of tissue injury, including central nervous system trauma, ischemia/reperfusion injury, sepsis, and shock. In addition, PPAR agonists have been shown to induce wound healing process after tissue trauma. The present review was designed to provide an up-to-date overview on the current understanding of the role of PPARs in the pathophysiology of the inflammatory response after major trauma. Therapeutic options for using recombinant PPAR agonists as pharmacological agents in the management of posttraumatic inflammation will be discussed.
Evolutionary Optimization of Electric Power Distribution Using the Dandelion Code
Authors: Sabattin Jorge , Contreras Bolton Carlos , Arias Miguel , Parada Víctor
Published: February 2012

Planning primary electric power distribution involves solving an optimization problem using nonlinear components, which makes it difficult to obtain the optimum solution when the problem has dimensions that are found in reality, in terms of both the installation cost and the power loss cost. To tackle this problem, heuristic methods have been used, but even when sacrificing quality, finding the optimum solution still represents a computational challenge. In this paper, we study this problem using genetic algorithms. With the help of a coding scheme based on the dandelion code, these genetic algorithms allow larger instances of the problem to be solved. With the stated approach, we have solved instances of up to 40,000 consumer nodes when considering 20 substations; the total cost deviates 3.1% with respect to a lower bound that considers only the construction costs of the network.
Effects of Extract from Solid-State FermentedCordyceps sinensison Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus
Authors: Kan Wei-Chih , Wang Hsien-Yi , Chien Chih-Chiang , Li Shun-Lai , Chen Yu-Chun , Chang Liang-Hao , Cheng Chia-Hui , Tsai Wan-Chen , Hwang Jyh-Chang , Su Shih-Bin , Huang Li-Hsueh , Chuu Jiunn-Jye
Published: February 2012

Diabetes mellitus is the most common chronic disease in the world, and a wide range of drugs, including Chinese herbs, have been evaluated for the treatment of associated metabolic disorders. This study investigated the potential hypoglycemic and renoprotective effects of an extract from the solid-state fermented mycelium ofCordyceps sinensis(CS). We employed the KK/HIJ diabetic mouse model, in which the mice were provided with a high-fat diet for 8 weeks to induce hyperglycemia, followed by the administration of CS or rosiglitazone for 4 consecutive weeks. Several parameters were evaluated, including changes in body weight, plasma lipid profiles, oral glucose tolerance tests, insulin tolerance tests, and plasma insulin concentrations. Our results show that the CS extract significantly elevated HDL/LDL ratios at 4 weeks and decreased body weight gain at 8 weeks. Interestingly, CS treatment did not lead to obvious improvements in hyperglycemia or resistance to insulin, while in vitro MTT assays indicated that CS protects pancreatic beta cells against the toxic effects of STZ. CS also enhanced renal NKA activity and reduced the accumulation of mesangial matrix and collagen deposition. In conclusion, CS extract can potentially preserveβ-cell function and offer renoprotection, which may afford a promising therapy for DM.
Development of a Method for the Determination of Chromium and Cadmium in Tannery Wastewater Using Laser-Induced Breakdown Spectroscopy
Authors: Bukhari Mahwish , Awan M. Ali , Qazi Ishtiaq A. , Baig M. Anwar
Published: February 2012

This paper illustrates systematic development of a convenient analytical method for the determination of chromium and cadmium in tannery wastewater using laser-induced breakdown spectroscopy (LIBS). A new approach was developed by which liquid was converted into solid phase sample surface using absorption paper for subsequent LIBS analysis. The optimized values of LIBS parameters were 146.7 mJ for chromium and 89.5 mJ for cadmium (laser pulse energy), 4.5 μs (delay time), 70 mm (lens to sample surface distance), and 7 mm (light collection system to sample surface distance). Optimized values of LIBS parameters demonstrated strong spectrum lines for each metal keeping the background noise at minimum level. The new method of preparing metal standards on absorption papers exhibited calibration curves with good linearity with correlation coefficients,R2in the range of 0.992 to 0.998. The developed method was tested on real tannery wastewater samples for determination of chromium and cadmium.
Growth, Optical and Dielectric Studies on Pure and L-Lysine Doped KDP Crystals
Authors: Kanagathara N. , Anbalagan G.
Published: February 2012

Optically good quality single crystals of pure and L-lysine monohydrochloride-doped KDP crystals have been grown by a slow evaporation method. The grown crystals have been subjected to optical and dielectric studies. The UV-Vis spectrum shows the transmitting ability of the crystals in the entire visible region and transmittance percentage is increased for the doped KDP crystals. From the dielectric study, it is found that the dielectric constant and the dielectric loss of L-lysine-doped KDP crystals were lower than the pure KDP crystals. Hence L-lysine-doped KDP crystals are found to be more beneficial from an application point of view as compared to pure KDP crystals.