bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Inheritance of resistance to stem rust in 'Bonza', 'Chris', 'FKN-II-50-17', 'MRFY', 'Thatcher', 'Marquillo', and 'Hope' wheats
Authors: Padidam M. , Knott D. R.
Published: August 2009

Resistance to stem rust (Puccinia graminis Pers. f. sp. tritici Eriks, and Henn.), particularly adult plant resisitance to race 15B-1, was studied in seven wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) cultivars or lines: 'Bonza', 'Chris', 'FKN-II-50-17', 'MRFY', 'Thatcher', 'Marquillo', and 'Hope'. Each of the seven was crossed with a susceptible parent and either F4- or F5-derived lines developed by single seed descent. All of the lines were tested with race 15B-1 in field nurseries. Lines derived from parents carrying seedling resistance to race 15B-1 were also tested as seedlings in the greenhouse with race 15B-1, and in some cases races 56, 29, and C65. The data indicated that 'Bonza' carries Sr6, probably Sr5, an unidentified gene giving resistance to race 56, two unidentified genes for resistance to race C65, and two minor genes that combine to produce intermediate adult plant resistance. 'Chris' carries Sr5, Sr7a, Sr8a, and Sr12. In addition, it may have three minor genes for adult plant resistance. 'FKN-II-50-17' carries Sr6 and may have four minor genes that combine to produce moderate adult plant resistance. 'MRFY', which is seedling susceptible to race 15B-1, carries Sr9b, possibly Sr5, plus an unidentified gene for resistance to C65. In addition, it appears to have one major gene for adult plant resistance plus two or more minor genes. 'Thatcher', 'Marquillo', and 'Hope' had only limited resistance to race 15B-1 in the field and no genetic analysis of their crosses was possible. The four parents that had good resistance to race 15B-1 in the field, 'Bonza', 'Chris', 'FKN-II-50-17', and 'MRFY', all carry minor genes for adult plant resistance that had little effect individually but produced moderate resistance when combined. The genes Sr5 and Sr9b, which have no effect on resistance to 15B-1 is seedlings, were found to significantly increase resistance in adult plants in the field.Key words: stem rust, Puccinia graminis tritici, wheat, Triticum aestivum, adult plant rust resistance.
Karyotypes, C-banding, and chromosomal location of active nucleolar organizing regions in Tapinoma (Hymenoptera, Formicidae)
Authors: Palomeque T. , Chica E. , Cano M. A. , Guardia R. Díaz de la
Published: August 2009

The haploid and diploid karyotypes of Tapinoma erraticum (n = 8) and Tapinoma nigerrimum (n = 9) were analyzed using C-banding and observation of NOR sites. C-banding showed the existence of heterochromatin in the paracentromeric regions of all chromosomes. The analysis of NOR sites in these species proved the existence of primary activity NOR in one or two chromosomes, respectively, whereas the other chromosomes showed secondary activity NOR, expressed only in a minority of cells. In both species the NOR were located in paracentromeric regions. These results are discussed in relation to a hypothesis of chromosome differentiation of these species.Key words: C-bands, nucleolar organizer, NOR (primary), NOR (secondary), Formicidae.
Variable expression of gliding and swimming motility in Deleya marina
Authors: Shea C. , Nunley J. W. , Smith-Somerville H. E.
Published: August 2009

Surface-associated motility has been observed in the Deleya marina type strain ATCC 25374 (strain 219). Slime tracks and a complex growth pattern, characteristic of gliding motility, developed on semisolid marine-agar motility plates. Cell movement observed by light microscopy consisted of rapid glides and flips by single cells and groups of cells. Following the development of the gliding cell growth pattern, a subpopulation of swimming cells appeared. The variation in motility was random and reversible in subculture. Electron microscopic comparisons of cells of the two motility types showed that gliding cells had no obvious motility organelles, whereas swimming cells had polar flagella. Variable expression of gliding and swimming motility was also observed in D. marina strain 140 (ATCC 27129) and in two other species of the Deleya genus. Key words: gliding, morphological variation, Deleya, biofouling.
Importance and mobilization of nutrients in soft rot of wood
Authors: Worrall James J. , Wang C. J. K.
Published: August 2009

Soft rot of wood by Chaetomium globosum and Scytalidium lignicola was negligible in the absence of added nutrients. Independently varying the concentrations of nutrients in double Abrams' solution (which is often used for testing soft rot of wood) showed that these concentrations are higher than necessary, and in some cases supraoptimal, for soft rot as measured by weight loss. Optimal nutrient concentrations were lower in cases of low decay capacity than in cases of high decay capacity. A suitable, reduced solution contained, per litre, 1.5 g NH4NO3, 2.5 g KH2PO4, 2.0 g K2HPO4, and 1 g MgSO4∙7H2O. Best results were obtained when blocks were infiltrated with the solution. Increasing osmolality with KCl inhibited soft rot, suggesting that the solution satisfies specific nutrient requirements rather than an osmophilic requirement. P and especially N were actively mobilized into decaying blocks. As any of the nutrients were added at low levels to the external solution, decay and the influx of N increased. Key words: wood decay, soft rot, nutrients, translocation, osmophily.
Variation of fibre length within trees of Fraxinusexcelsior
Authors: Denne M. P. , Whitbread V.
Published: August 2009

A systematic internodal analysis within three 22-year-old trees of European ash (Fraxinusexcelsior L.) showed that fibre length increased rapidly from the first ring from the pith outwards to about ring 7 (which coincided with maximum leaf weight within the crown), then increased more slowly to a maximum at about ring 14 (formed below the base of the crown). Since there was little variation in this pattern of increase in fibre length with height in the tree, an increment core taken at breast height should give an adequate indication of fibre length in the whole trunk in trees of this age. Fibre length varied significantly between seasons, independent of age or level in tree.Within growth rings, fibre length increased from earlywood to latewood, reaching a maximum before the end of the latewood. Fibre length was not correlated with ring width between rings (excluding the first five rings from the pith); this suggests that in Fraxinusexcelsior management treatments increasing wood production would not necessarily have an adverse effect on fibre length.
PROBING INTERNAL STRESS AND CRYSTALLINITY IN WET FOAM VIA RAMAN SPECTROSCOPY
Authors: BARIK T. K. , BANDYOPADHYAY P. , ROY A.
Published: August 2009

In this paper, we correlate the internal stress and the characteristics of a vibrational mode in wet foam. Using microscope images, we estimate the average size of the bubbles in wet foam, at specific time intervals, over a duration of 24 h. Raman spectra are also recorded at the same time intervals, over the same time frame. We show that the internal stress, originated from the microscopic structural change of foam with aging, can be related to the observed Raman shift of the low-frequency methylene rocking mode of the constituent surfactant molecules in foam. In this paper, we also show the capability of the Raman spectroscopy to reveal the crystallinity in foamy materials, when studied for a longer period of time.
STRUCTURE AND MAGNETIC PROPERTIES OF TB0.27 DY0.73FE1.9+xTI0.05 COMPOUNDS
Authors: LI SONG-TAO , LIU HE-YAN , REN ZHI , LU ZUN-MING , LI YANG-XIAN
Published: August 2009

Structure, Curie temperature, and magnetostriction have been systemically investigated for Tb 0.27 Dy 0.73 Fe 1.9+x Ti 0.05 compounds using X-ray diffraction, vibrating sample magnetometer, and standard strain gauge technique. The samples show pure MgCu 2-type Laves phase when x≥0.2, and a small amount of second phases appear when x>0.2. The lattice parameters and the Curie temperatures change modestly with increasing Fe content. The magnetostriction of Tb 0.27 Dy 0.73 Fe 1.9+x Ti 0.05 compounds shows strong dependence on Fe content.
A MIXED ADAPTIVE VARIATIONAL MULTISCALE METHOD WITH APPLICATIONS IN OIL RESERVOIR SIMULATION
Authors: LARSON MATS G. , MÅLQVIST AXEL
Published: August 2009

We present a mixed adaptive variational multiscale method for solving elliptic second-order problems. This work is an extension of the adaptive variational multiscale method (AVMS), introduced by Larson and Målqvist,15–17 to a mixed formulation. The method is based on a particular splitting into coarse and fine scales together with a systematic technique for approximation of the fine scale part based on solution of decoupled localized subgrid problems. We present the mixed AVMS method and derive a posteriori error estimates both for linear functionals and the energy norm. Based on the estimates we propose adaptive algorithms for automatic tuning of critical discretization parameters. Finally, we present numerical examples on a two-dimensional slice of an oil reservoir.
AN ITERATING MODEL OF INDUSTRIES DISTRIBUTION IN REAL SPACE
Authors: SHEN YIMIN , FAN YUSHUN , CAMPBELL STUART
Published: August 2009

An industry distribution model provides an important reference point for enterprises to extend business scope, and for governments to make industrial area planning. Current industry development models usually ignore the spatial distribution of enterprises, or build the models in virtual spaces. This paper proposes an iterating Model of Industry development in Real Space (MIRS) based on national division standards. Utilizing a multi-level iterating structure and a random concentration distribution approach, MIRS presents the fractal characteristics of log-normal distribution, self-similarity, and increasing trend of fractal information dimension. The coincidence between MIRS and actual industries is verified by the data collected from three industries in China, this allows MIRS to be an effective approach for predicting industry behaviors and a quantitative reference for decision-makers of companies.
Rimage: Safeguarding Intellectual Property in China
Authors: Kurtz Janell , Chen Jim Q.
Published: August 2009

Rimage was an on-demand digital publishing company based in Minnesota, USA. Since 1992, Rimage had been internationalizing its business in Europe, Scandinavia, Africa, Middle East, and Russia. By 2004, its products had penetrated Japanese market. Encouraged by its success in Japan, Rimage considered entry into China. The initial market assessment identified opportunities in China, but also risk. As a technology driven company, Rimage's main management dilemma was how to set up operations in China while keeping its intellectual property secure. Manny Almeida, Rimage's Chief Operating Officer, carefully pondered the company's entry into China. Did the opportunities outweigh the risks? This decisional case is based on field research. There is an epilogue detailing the steps Rimage took to protect its intellectual property in China. The case aims to provide insight for international business in safeguarding intellectual property rights.
Adani Wilmar Limited (AWL)
Authors: Deo Sarang , Singh Sanjay Kumar , Raghuram G. , Choudhari Sanjay
Published: August 2009

The total size of the edible oils market in India was estimated to be 13 million tons (mt) out of which imports amounted to about 4 mt. This made India the largest importer of edible oils in the world. Various edible oils are consumed in the India depending on the regional tastes and preferences. A differential in the duties on oil seed and oils made it favorable to import edible oils instead of oilseeds. Similarly, a differential duty between the refined oil and the raw oil encouraged the import of raw oil in order to support the domestic refineries.

Adani Wilmar Limited (AWL) was a part of the Adani group, which started as a trading company mainly into exports of commodities. The group had recently entered into the infrastructure sector with the building of the Mundra port. The group had formed a joint venture with Wilmar Trading of Singapore to enter into the edible oil business. The company was setting up a re.nery with capacity of 600 tons per day. It planned to sell half of the production as bulk oil and the rest as packed oil. The company viewed supply chain management as one of the important means to get a competitive edge. Approximately 70% of the total logistics cost was accounted for by transportation cost. Some of the key decisions the company faced was the location of the warehouses, mode choice and routing.
Nidan Technologies Private Limited (NTPL): The Entrepreneur's Conundrum
Authors: Jayasimha K. R. , Halve Harshvardhan
Published: August 2009

The case describes the situation faced by the CEO of Nidan Technologies Private Ltd (NTPL), a first generation entrepreneurial firm struggling to ensure the growth and survival of the new venture viz., SMS based railway enquiry system. Spectrum, Nidan's predecessor which was set up as a small office home office (SOHO) in 1996 had survived for over 8 years by doing small time software development for small and medium enterprises (SMEs) in Jabalpur. Given that everyone involved with Spectrum were first generation entrepreneurs, survival of the venture had given them enough confidence to keep going.

In its search for bigger, better margin projects that would give steady income, NTPL had set its eyes on government and public utility projects. SMS based railway enquiry system was the first idea which NTPL believed would take it to the next level. NTPL was successful in convincing the Indian railway's Central West Railway zonal officials about the need for such a system. Though NTPL wanted to tie-up with all the cellular service providers in the circle to offer this service, it could convince only Idea, the largest cellular service provider in the circle in partnering with NTPL for this service. Everything seemed to go well during the nine months trial period. Following an open bid tender, in which NTPL was the sole bidder, commercial operations were started in January 2006. However a year later, it appeared that NTPL was back to square one with around 1.7% of the total rail enquiries in the zone being routed through NTPL's system, Rail Nidan. Breakeven was nowhere in sight.

After deliberations, Vishal Karendikar had to decide on one of the following options that had emerged in the January 2007 meeting with his four other partners;

a) Bid adieu to the project.

b) Make the venture profiable.

c) Sell it off to a prospective buyer right now or once the project is on the path to profiability?
On Generalized Quantum Turing Machine and Its Applications
Authors: Iriyama Satoshi , Ohya Masanori
Published: August 2009

Ohya and Volovich discussed a quantum algorithm for the SAT problem with a chaos amplification process (OMV SAT algorithm) and showed that the number of steps it performed was polynomial in input size. In this paper, we define a generalized quantum Turing machine (GQTM) and related computational complexity. Then we show that there exists a GQTM which recognizes the SAT problem in polynomial time. Moreover, we discuss the problem of finding the quantum algorithm for a partial recursive function.
Effect of Entanglement on Geometric Phase for Multi-Qubit States
Authors: Williamson Mark S. , Vedral Vlatko
Published: August 2009

When a multi-qubit state evolves under local unitaries it may obtain a geometric phase, a feature dependent on the geometry of the state projective Hilbert space. A correction term to this geometric phase, in addition to the local subsystem phases, may appear from correlations between the subsystems. We find that this correction term can be characterized completely either by the entanglement or by the classical correlations for several classes of entangled state. States belonging to the former set are W states and their mixtures, while members of the latter set are cluster states, GHZ states and two classes of bound entangled state. We probe the structures of these states more finely using local invariants and suggest that the cause of the entanglement correction is a recently introduced gauge field-like SL(2,ℂ)-invariant called twist.
P2Y5 is a Gαi, Gα12/13G protein-coupled receptor activated by lysophosphatidic acid that reduces intestinal cell adhesion
Authors: Lee Mike , Choi Sungwon , Halldén Gunnel , Yo Sek Jin , Schichnes Denise , Aponte Gregory W.
Published: August 2009

P2Y5 is a G protein-coupled receptor that binds and is activated by lysophosphatidic acid (LPA). We determined that P2Y5 transcript is expressed along the intestinal mucosa and investigated the intracellular pathways induced by P2Y5 activation, which could contribute to LPA effects on intestinal cell adhesion. P2Y5 heterologously expressed in CHO and small intestinal hBRIE 380i cells was activated by LPA resulting in an increase in intracellular calcium ([Ca2+]i) when the cells concurrently expressed GαΔ6qi5myr. P2Y5 activation also increased the phosphorylation of ERK1/2 that was sensitive to pertussis toxin. Together these indicate that P2Y5 activation by LPA induces an increase in [Ca2+]iand ERK1/2 phosphorylation through Gαi. We discovered that P2Y5 was activated by farnesyl pyrophosphate (FPP) without a detectable change in [Ca2+]i. The activation of P2Y5 by LPA or FPP induced the activity of a serum response element (SRE)-linked luciferase reporter that was inhibited by the RGS domain of p115RhoGEF, C3 exotoxin, and Y-27632, suggesting the involvement of Gα12/13, Rho GTPase, and ROCK, respectively. However, only LPA-mediated induction of SRE reporter activity was sensitive to inhibitors targeting p38 MAPK, PI3K, PLC, and PKC. In addition, only LPA transactivated the epidermal growth factor receptor, leading to an induction of ERK1/2 phosphorylation. These observations correlate with our subsequent finding that P2Y5 activation by LPA, and not FPP, reduced intestinal cell adhesion. This study elucidates a mechanism whereby LPA can act as a luminal and/or serosal cue to alter mucosal integrity.
Lung function in developing lambs: is it affected by preterm birth?
Authors: De Matteo Robert , Snibson Ken , Thompson Bruce , Koumoundouros Emmanuel , Harding Richard
Published: August 2009

Children born before term often have reduced lung function, but the effects of preterm birth alone are difficult to determine owing to iatrogenic factors such as mechanical ventilation. Our objective was to determine the effects of preterm birth alone on airway resistance, airway reactivity, and ventilatory heterogeneity as an index of intrapulmonary gas mixing. Preterm birth was induced in sheep 12 days before term; controls were born at term (∼147 days). Lung function was assessed at 8 wk postterm. To assess medium-large airway function we measured airway resistance and reactivity to carbachol. Multiple breath N2 washout (MBW) was used to assess ventilatory heterogeneity in conducting (Scond) and acinar (Sacin) airways. Baseline airway resistance and responsiveness to carbachol were similar in preterm and term lambs. Airway responsiveness to carbachol was greater in females than males ( P < 0.05), and baseline airway resistance tended to be higher in females than males ( P = 0.06). There were no significant differences in ventilatory heterogeneity between preterm and term lambs; for all animals combined, mean Sacin was 0.29 ± 0.05 liter−1 and Scond was 0.26 ± 0.03 liter−1. Males had significantly higher Scond than females, indicating poorer gas mixing in small conducting airways; there was no sex difference in Sacin. We conclude that preterm birth per se in lambs does not affect baseline airway resistance, airway responsiveness, or ventilatory heterogeneity as measured by MBW. The observed sex-related differences in airway responsiveness and ventilatory heterogeneity in the conducting airways could help explain sex differences in lung function observed in humans.
Response Properties of Fixation Neurons and Their Location in the Frontal Eye Field in the Monkey
Authors: Izawa Yoshiko , Suzuki Hisao , Shinoda Yoshikazu
Published: August 2009

Electrical stimulation of the frontal eye field (FEF) has recently been reported to suppress the generation of saccades, which supports the idea that the FEF plays a role in maintaining attentive fixation. This study analyzed the activity of fixation neurons that discharged during fixation in the FEF in relation to visual fixation and saccades in trained monkeys. The neural activity of fixation neurons increased at the start of fixation and was maintained during fixation. When a fixation spot of light disappeared during steady fixation, different fixation neurons exhibited different categories of response, ranging from a decrease in activity to an increase in activity, indicating that there is a continuum of fixation neurons, from neurons with foveal visual-related activity to neurons with activity that is related to the motor act of fixating. Fixation neurons usually showed a decrease in their firing rate before the onset of visually guided saccades (Vsacs) and memory-guided saccades in any direction. The reduction in activity of fixation neurons nearly coincided with, or occurred slightly before, the increase in the activity of saccade-related movement neurons in the FEF in the same monkey. Although fixation neurons were scattered in the FEF, about two thirds of fixation neurons were concentrated in a localized area in the FEF at which electrical stimulation induced strong suppression of the initiation of Vsacs bilaterally. These results suggest that fixation neurons in the FEF are part of a suppression mechanism that could control the maintenance of fixation and the initiation of saccades.
In situ stress analysis of multilayer environmental barrier coatings
Authors: Harder B. J. , Almer J. , Lee K. N. , Faber K. T.
Published: August 2009

The biaxial stress and thermal expansion of multilayer doped-aluminosilicate environmental barrier coatings were measured in situ during cooling using microfocused high-energy X-rays in transmission. Coating stresses during cooling from 1000 °C were measured for as-sprayed and thermally cycled samples. In the as-sprayed state, tensile stresses as high as 75 MPa were measured in the doped-aluminosilicate topcoat at 375 °C, after which a drop in the stress occurred accompanied by through-thickness cracking of the two outermost layers. After thermally cycling the samples, the stress in the topcoat was reduced to approximately 50 MPa, and there was no drop in stress upon cooling. This stress reduction was attributed to a crystallographic phase transformation of the topcoat and the accompanying change in thermal expansion coefficient. The addition of a doped aluminosilicate to the mullite layer did not lower the stress in the topcoat, but may offer increased durability due to an increased compressive stress.
Using XRD elastic and plastic strain data to evaluate the effectiveness of different cold-working techniques in aerospace materials
Authors: Matlock Beth S. , Snoha Daniel J. , Grendahl Scott M.
Published: August 2009

Generating compressive stresses in aerospace materials is an important consideration for enhancing fatigue life. Shot peening and cold expansion of holes are two techniques for imparting beneficial compressive stresses. X-ray diffraction is a direct method for measuring elastic strains. Diffraction peak widths are an indication of plastic strain. Elastic and plastic strains can be used to better assess the true condition of a component. This paper presents elastic and plastic strain information from shot peened and cold expanded aerospace materials. Examination of surface data showed which shot peened samples had the deeper layer of compressive stresses. Likewise, elastic and plastic strain data enabled successful ranking of the holes in terms of the maximum amount of cold working.
Why we should give up the sin2ψ method
Authors: Ortner Balder
Published: August 2009

The sin2ψ method can be formulated as a single system of simultaneous linear equations. Using this it is easy to show that the sin2ψ method is not a least-squares method. It further helps to compare the accuracies of the stress tensors obtained by the sin2ψ method and the method of least squares. Quantitative comparisons have been made for different ﬁctitious measurements. It is shown that the unnecessary loss in accuracy by using the sin2ψ method is quite significant and by no means negligible. The same course of action has been applied to compare the so-called Dölle-Hauk method with a least-squares method; the result is similar. Some other methods for X-ray stress determination, most often similar to the sin2ψ method, and their shortcomings are also discussed briefly, together with the corresponding, more effective and more versatile least-squares method.
Convection‐Radiation Heat Transfer in a Nonlinear Fluid with Temperature‐Dependent Viscosity
Authors: Massoudi Mehrdad , Tran Phuoc X. , Wulandana R.
Published: August 2009

We will study the fully developed flow of a generalized second‐grade fluid down an inclined plane. The viscosity is not only a function of the shear rate (shear‐thinning or shear‐thickening) but also depends on the temperature in an exponential way. The effects of radiation boundary condition at the free surface are considered. The boundary value problem is solved numerically, and the velocity and temperature profiles are obtained for various dimensionless numbers.
Osteoclast-Derived Matrix Metalloproteinase-7, but Not Matrix Metalloproteinase-9, Contributes to Tumor-Induced Osteolysis
Authors: Thiolloy Sophie , Halpern Jennifer , Holt Ginger E. , Schwartz Herbert S. , Mundy Gregory R. , Matrisian Lynn M. , Lynch Conor C.
Published: August 2009

The matrix metalloproteinases MMP-2, MMP-3, MMP-7, MMP-9, and MMP-13 are highly expressed in the tumor-bone microenvironment, and, of these, MMP-7 and MMP-9 were found to be localized to bone-resorbing osteoclasts in human breast-to-bone metastases. In a bid to define the roles of host-derived MMP-7 and MMP-9 in the tumor-bone microenvironment, the tibias of MMP-7 and MMP-9 null mice were injected with osteolytic luciferase–tagged mammary tumor cell lines. Our data show that osteoclast-derived MMP-7 significantly contributes to tumor growth and tumor-induced osteolysis whereas osteoclast-derived MMP-9 had no effect on these processes. MMP-7 is capable of processing a number of nonmatrix molecules to soluble active forms that have profound effects on cell-cell communication, such as RANKL, a crucial mediator of osteoclast precursor recruitment and maturation. Therefore, the ability of osteoclast-derived MMP-7 to promote RANKL solubilization in the tumor-bone microenvironment was explored. Results revealed that levels of soluble RANKL were significantly lower in the MMP-7 null mice compared with wild-type (WT) controls. In keeping with this observation, MMP-7 null mice had significantly fewer osteoclast numbers at the tumor-bone interface compared with the WT controls. In summary, we propose that the solubilization of RANKL by MMP-7 is a potential mechanism through which MMP-7 mediates mammary tumor–induced osteolysis. Our studies indicate that the selective inhibition of MMP-7 in the tumor-bone microenvironment may be of benefit for the treatment of lytic breast-to-bone metastases. [Cancer Res 2009;69(16):6747–55]
Cardiac Glycosides Inhibit p53 Synthesis by a Mechanism Relieved by Src or MAPK Inhibition
Authors: Wang Zhen , Zheng Min , Li Zhichuan , Li Ruiguo , Jia Lijun , Xiong Xiufang , Southall Noel , Wang Shaomeng , Xia Menghang , Austin Christopher P. , Zheng Wei , Xie Zijian , Sun Yi
Published: August 2009

p53 is regulated at multiple levels. We report here that p53, in multiple lines of human cancer cells, is down-regulated by cardiac glycoside drugs digoxin and ouabain, potent inhibitors of Na+/K+-ATPase. These drugs reduced the basal levels of p53 protein at nanomolar concentrations in a dose-, time-, and cancer cell line–dependent manner, but independent of p53 status of wild-type or mutant. The drugs also reduced the levels of p53 induced by its activators as well as p53 transfected into human cancer cells, regardless of its status. Interestingly, the drugs had no effect on endogenous p53 in two immortalized human cell lines. Mechanistically, p53 reduction occurred not at the mRNA levels but at the protein levels, as a result of reduced protein synthesis rather than enhanced degradation. The cellular sensitivity to drug-induced p53 reduction was not associated with the levels of αsubunits of Na+/K+-ATPase in different cell lines. Although lowering extracellular K+ did not reduce p53 as did ouabain and digoxin, it did potentiate both digoxin- and ouabain-induced p53 reduction in sensitive lines. Finally, p53 reduction seems to be triggered by activation of Src/mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) signaling pathways upon drug binding to the Na+/K+-ATPase and can be completely blocked by the inhibitors of Src or MAP/ERK kinase. This is the first report that cardiac glycoside drugs, by initiating the Src/MAPK signaling pathways, reduce the p53 levels via inhibition of p53 protein synthesis. The drugs may be useful in the treatment of human cancers with a gain-of-function p53 mutation. [Cancer Res 2009;69(16):6556–64]
Effects of Arterial Port Design on Blood Flow Distribution in Hemodialyzers
Authors: Kim Jeong Chul , Kim Ji Hyun , Sung Jaeyong , Kim Hyo-Cheol , Kang Eungtaek , Lee Seok Hwan , Kim Jung Kyung , Kim Hee Chan , Min Byoung Goo , Ronco Claudio
Published: August 2009

Background/Aims: Blood flow profiles in fiber bundles depend on the design of the arterial port and affects the biocompatibility of the hemodialyzer. We analyzed the effects of arterial port design on blood flow distribution in fiber bundles using nonintrusive imaging techniques. Methods: The velocity fields in arterial ports and the hemodynamics in fiber bundles were analyzed for hemodialyzers with different configurations using particle image velocimetry and perfusion computed tomography. Results: In a hemodialyzer with standard arterial ports, high blood flow profiles in the central and peripheral regions and low blood profiles in the middle region were developed due to jet flow and vortices around the jet. In a hemodialyzer with spiral arterial ports, higher flow profiles were developed due to the central vortices that decrease perfusion into the fiber bundles. Conclusion: The arterial port design of hemodialyzers should be optimized such that jet flow and vortices do not impair dialysis efficiency and biocompatibility.
NOX4 Expression in Human Microglia Leads to Constitutive Generation of Reactive Oxygen Species and to Constitutive IL-6 Expression
Authors: Li Bin , Bedard Karen , Sorce Silvia , Hinz Boris , Dubois-Dauphin Michel , Krause Karl-Heinz
Published: August 2009

Reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation by microglia is implicated in neuroinflammation and neurotoxicity, as well as in host defense, cell proliferation and excitatory amino acid release. Recent studies demonstrate that primary microglia preparations not only express the phagocyte NADPH oxidase NOX2, but also the NOX1 and NOX4 isoforms. Here we investigated the relationship between neuroinflammation and NOX isoform expression in the human microglia cell line clone 3 (HMC3). HMC3 cells are typical microglia, as suggested by the constitutive expression of Iba-1 and CD14, and IFN-γ-induced expression of CD11b, CD68 and MHCII. However, the characteristics of NOX isoform expression and ROS generation by HMC3 cells were unexpected. RT-PCR demonstrated abundant expression of NOX4, but almost no NOX2 mRNA. ROS generation was constitutive and appeared predominantly intracellular, as superoxide was detected within intracellular vesicles, while the cell-permeable H2O2 was found in the extracellular space. ROS generation by HMC3 was efficiently suppressed by siRNA directed against NOX4, but not by control siRNA. NOX4 suppression did not alter expression of the microglia-typical genes MHCII, CD68 and CD11b, nor did it affect the expression of iNOS, VEGF or TGF-β. However, there was a marked decrease in IL-6 mRNA. Taken together, we demonstrate a constitutive NOX4-dependent ROS generation in a microglial cell line which leads to expression of IL-6 mRNA. The possibility that microglia could switch from tightly regulated NOX2-dependent ROS generation to constitutive NOX4-dependent ROS generation is of interest for the understanding of the role of microglia in maintaining the balance between neuroprotection and neuroinflammatory damage.
Liver X Receptor–Mediated Induction of Cholesteryl Ester Transfer Protein Expression Is Selectively Impaired in Inflammatory Macrophages
Authors: Lakomy Daniela , Rébé Cédric , Sberna Anne-Laure , Masson David , Gautier Thomas , Chevriaux Angélique , Raveneau Magalie , Ogier Nicolas , Nguyen Anh Thoai , Gambert Philippe , Grober Jacques , Bonnotte Bernard , Solary Eric , Lagrost Laurent
Published: August 2009

Objective—

Cholesteryl ester transfer protein (CETP) is a target gene for the liver X receptor (LXR). The aim of this study was to further explore this regulation in the monocyte-macrophage lineage and its modulation by lipid loading and inflammation, which are key steps in the process of atherogenesis.

Methods and Results—

Exposure of bone marrow–derived macrophages from human CETP transgenic mice to the T0901317 LXR agonist increased CETP, PLTP, and ABCA1 mRNA levels. T0901317 also markedly increased CETP mRNA levels and CETP production in human differentiated macrophages, whereas it had no effect on CETP expression in human peripheral blood monocytes. In inflammatory mouse and human macrophages, LXR-mediated CETP gene upregulation was inhibited, even though ABCA1, ABCG1, and SREBP1c inductions were maintained. The inhibition of CETP gene response to LXR agonists in inflammatory cells was independent of lipid loading (ie, oxidized LDL increased CETP production in noninflammatory macrophages with a synergistic effect of synthetic LXR agonists).

Conclusion—

LXR-mediated induction of human CETP expression is switched on during monocyte-to-macrophage differentiation, is magnified by lipid loading, and is selectively lost in inflammatory macrophages, which suggests that inflammatory cells may not increase the circulating CETP pool on LXR agonist treatment.
Inhibition of Long-Chain Acyl Coenzyme A Synthetases During Fatty Acid Loading Induces Lipotoxicity in Macrophages
Authors: Saraswathi Viswanathan , Hasty Alyssa H.
Published: August 2009

Objectives—

Obesity is often associated with hypertriglyceridemia and elevated free fatty acids (FFAs), which are independent risk factors for cardiovascular disease and diabetes. Although impairment of cholesterol homeostasis is known to induce toxicity in macrophages, the consequence of altered fatty acid homeostasis is not clear.

Methods and Results—

Long-chain acyl CoA synthetases (ACSLs) play a critical role in fatty acid homeostasis by channeling fatty acids to diverse metabolic pools. We treated mouse peritoneal macrophages (MPMs) with VLDL or FFAs in the presence of triacsin C, an inhibitor of the 3 ACSL isoforms present in macrophages. Treatment of macrophages with VLDL and triacsin C resulted in reduced TG accumulation but increased intracellular FFA levels, which induced lipotoxicity characterized by apoptosis. Treatment of MPMs with the saturated fatty acid stearic acid in the presence of triacsin C increased intracellular stearic acid and induced apoptosis. Stromal vascular cells collected from high-fat diet–fed mice displayed foam cell morphology and exhibited increased mRNA levels of macrophage markers and ACSL1. Importantly, all of these changes were associated with increased FFA level in AT.

Conclusions—

Inhibition of ACSLs during fatty acid loading results in apoptosis via accumulation of FFAs. Our data have implications in understanding the consequences of dysregulated fatty acid metabolism in macrophages.
Interval Training Normalizes Cardiomyocyte Function, Diastolic Ca
2+
Control, and SR Ca
2+
Release Synchronicity in a Mouse Model of Diabetic Cardiomyopathy
Authors: Stølen Tomas O. , Høydal Morten Andre , Kemi Ole Johan , Catalucci Daniele , Ceci Marcello , Aasum Ellen , Larsen Terje , Rolim Natale , Condorelli Gianluigi , Smith Godfrey L. , Wisløff Ulrik
Published: August 2009

Rationale:

In the present study we explored the mechanisms behind excitation–contraction (EC) coupling defects in cardiomyocytes from mice with type-2 diabetes (db/db).

Objective:

We determined whether 13 weeks of aerobic interval training could restore cardiomyocyte Ca
2+
cycling and EC coupling.

Methods and Results:

Reduced contractility in cardiomyocytes isolated from sedentary db/db was associated with increased diastolic sarcoplasmic reticulum (SR)-Ca
2+
leak, reduced synchrony of Ca
2+
release, reduced transverse (T)-tubule density, and lower peak systolic and diastolic Ca
2+
and caffeine-induced Ca
2+
release. Additionally, the rate of SR Ca
2+
ATPase–mediated Ca
2+
uptake during diastole was reduced, whereas a faster recovery from caffeine-induced Ca
2+
release indicated increased Na
+
/Ca
2+
-exchanger activity. The increased SR-Ca
2+
leak was attributed to increased Ca
2+
-calmodulin–dependent protein kinase (CaMKIIδ) phosphorylation, supported by the normalization of SR-Ca
2+
leak on inhibition of CaMKIIδ (AIP). Exercise training restored contractile function associated with restored SR Ca
2+
release synchronicity, T-tubule density, twitch Ca
2+
amplitude, SR Ca
2+
ATPase and Na
+
/Ca
2+
-exchanger activities, and SR-Ca
2+
leak. The latter was associated with reduced phosphorylation of cytosolic CaMKIIδ. Despite normal contractile function and Ca
2+
handling after the training period, phospholamban was hyperphosphorylated at Serine-16. Protein kinase A inhibition (H-89) in cardiomyocytes from the exercised db/db group abolished the differences in SR-Ca
2+
load when compared with the sedentary db/db mice. EC coupling changes were observed without changes in serum insulin or glucose levels, suggesting that the exercise training–induced effects are not via normalization of the diabetic condition.

Conclusions:

These data demonstrate that aerobic interval training almost completely restored the contractile function of the diabetic cardiomyocyte to levels close to sedentary wild type.
Loss of Cardiac microRNA-Mediated Regulation Leads to Dilated Cardiomyopathy and Heart Failure
Authors: Rao Prakash K. , Toyama Yumiko , Chiang H. Rosaria , Gupta Sumeet , Bauer Michael , Medvid Rostislav , Reinhardt Ferenc , Liao Ronglih , Krieger Monty , Jaenisch Rudolf , Lodish Harvey F. , Blelloch Robert
Published: August 2009

Rationale:

Heart failure is a deadly and devastating disease that places immense costs on an aging society. To develop therapies aimed at rescuing the failing heart, it is important to understand the molecular mechanisms underlying cardiomyocyte structure and function.

Objective:

microRNAs are important regulators of gene expression, and we sought to define the global contributions made by microRNAs toward maintaining cardiomyocyte integrity.

Methods and Results:

First, we performed deep sequencing analysis to catalog the miRNA population in the adult heart. Second, we genetically deleted, in cardiac myocytes, an essential component of the machinery that is required to generate miRNAs. Deep sequencing of miRNAs from the heart revealed the enrichment of a small number of microRNAs with one, miR-1, accounting for 40% of all microRNAs. Cardiomyocyte-specific deletion of
dgcr8
, a gene required for microRNA biogenesis, revealed a fully penetrant phenotype that begins with left ventricular malfunction progressing to a dilated cardiomyopathy and premature lethality.

Conclusions:

These observations reveal a critical role for microRNAs in maintaining cardiac function in mature cardiomyocytes and raise the possibility that only a handful of microRNAs may ultimately be responsible for the dramatic cardiac phenotype seen in the absence of
dgcr8
.
Do Endothelin-Receptor Antagonists Prevent Delayed Neurological Deficits and Poor Outcomes After Aneurysmal Subarachnoid Hemorrhage?
Authors: Kramer Andreas , Fletcher Jeffrey
Published: August 2009

Background and Purpose—

Delayed ischemic neurological deficits (DINDs) contribute to poor outcomes after aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH). Endothelin-1 is an important mediator involved in the development of vasospasm.

Methods—

We performed a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials assessing the use of endothelin-receptor antagonists (ETRAs) in patients with SAH.

Results—

Three studies met eligibility criteria, enrolling 867 patients. ETRAs significantly reduced the occurrence of DINDs (OR 0.68 [0.49 to 0.95]) and radiographic vasospasm (OR 0.31 [0.19 to 0.49]), but did not have any impact on mortality (OR 1.09 [0.69 to 1.72]) or poor neurological outcomes (OR 0.87 [0.63 to 1.20]). Any benefit of ETRAs may have been partially offset by adverse effects, including hypotension(OR 2.39 [1.37 to 4.17]) and pulmonary complications (OR 2.12 [1.51 to 2.98]).

Conclusions—

Although ETRAs reduce radiographic vasospasm and DINDs, there is currently no evidence that they improve outcomes.
Combating “Mohammedan Indecency”: The Baptism of Muslim Slaves in Spanish Naples, 1563-1667
Authors: Mazur Peter
Published: August 2009

In the century following the Council of Trent, ecclesiastical authorities in Naples embarked on a campaign, the largest of its kind in Italy, to convert the city's Muslim slaves to Christianity. For the Church, the conversions were not only important for the conquest of individual believers, but symbolic occasions that demonstrated on a small scale important themes of Christian ethics and anti-Islamic polemic. At the same time, the number and frequency of the conversions forced secular authorities to confront the problem of the civil status of newly baptized slaves. During the seventeenth century, one of the highest tribunals of the state heard a series of cases that pitted baptized slaves who demanded their freedom against slave owners who saw their religious identity as unimportant.
The Birth of the Captive Autocracy: Moscow, 1432
Authors: Woodworth Cherie
Published: August 2009

Relying on Russian chronicle sources of the fifteenth century, this paper argues that beginning with Vasilii II in 1432, the grand principality of Moscow mirrored the political structure of its overlords, the Golden Horde. The most recent work by Mongolists and Turkologists on ruling traditions and state structures of the Mongol khanates show that the successor states to the Chingisid empire were ruled not by an autocratic khan but by a council of four qarachi beys, heads of the four leading clans. The selection of the teenager, Vasilii II, as grand prince of Moscow in 1432 was a decision made by a coalition of three of the four qarachi beys in order to weaken a rival bey, and simultaneously also weakened the rulership of the grand prince of Moscow by increasing the power of the boyar and princely clans surrounding him. However, the political model the princely clans-plus-grand prince was effective and flexible and later facilitated the rise of Moscow over its former rivals and overlords.
Impact Strength and Hardness Properties of Banana Pseudo‐Stem Filled Unplastisized PVC Composites
Authors: Kumar Rajneesh , Rani Gupta Raj , Kumar Kuldeep
Published: August 2009

A dynamical two‐dimensional problem of a homogeneous transversely isotropic fibre‐reinforced generalized thermoelastic solid with an overlying acoustic fluid layer has been considered to investigate disturbance due to mechanical load. Laplace and Fourier transform techniques are applied to solve the problem. Uniformly distributed and linearly distributed forces are applied to illustrate the utility of the approach. A numerical inversion technique has been applied to obtain the solution in the physical domain. Numerical results are obtained and presented graphically to show the effect of anisotropy along with the comparison of homogeneous transversely isotropic fibre‐reinforced generalized thermoelastic solid and isotropic elastic solid.
Mixed Multilayered Plate Elements for Coupled Magneto‐Electro‐Elastic Analysis
Authors: Carrera E. , Brischetto S. , Fagiano C. , Nali P.
Published: August 2009

Finite Elements FE based on the Reissner’s Mixed Variational Theorem RMVT, for the analysis of multilayered plates subjected to magneto‐electro‐elastic MEE fields, are developed in this work. Accurate description of the various field variables has been provided by employing a variable kinematic model which is based on the Carrera’s Unified Formulation CUF. Displacements, transverse shear/normal stresses, magnetic and electric potentials have been chosen as independent unknowns. Interlaminar continuity of mechanical variables is “a priori” guaranteed by the RMVT application. Layer‐wise plate elements with linear up to fourth order distribution in the thickness direction have been compared. FE governing equations, according to CUF, are presented in terms of fundamental nuclei whose form is not affected by kinematic assumptions. Results show the effectiveness of the proposed elements, the superiority of mixed FEs with respect to the classical ones, as well as their capability, by choosing appropriate kinematics, to accurately trace the static response of laminated plates subject to magneto‐electro‐elastic fields.
Simulation of Magnetic Flux Distribution for Magnetically Impelled Arc Butt Welding of Steel Tubes
Authors: Arungalai Vendan S. , Manoharan S. , Buvanashekaran G. , Nagamani C.
Published: August 2009

This paper proposes a 3‐Dimensional Finite Element Model (FEM) for the simulation of magnetic flux distribution in a Magnetically Impelled Arc Butt (MIAB) welding process. The electromagnetic force responsible for the arc rotation in MIAB welding process is governed by the magnetic flux density in the gap, the arc current and the arc length (gap size). To be precise the radial magnetic flux density is a critical factor in arc rotation and weld quality. The aim of this study is to explore the interdependence of the magnetic flux density and the existing current in the coils using finite element code ANSYS. The results of this analysis are verified with the available experimental data for steel pipes (outer dia 50mm and 2mm thickness). The results of the numerical simulation emphasize that the magnetic flux density in the gap between the pipes is proportional to the exciting current.