bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Cardiomyocyte-Restricted Deletion of PPARβ/δin PPARα-Null Mice Causes Impaired Mitochondrial Biogenesis and Defense, but No Further Depression of Myocardial Fatty Acid Oxidation
Authors: Liu Jian , Wang Peiyong , He Lan , Li Yuquan , Luo Jinwen , Cheng Lihong , Qin Qianhong , Brako Lawrence A. , Lo Woo-kuen , Lewis William , Yang Qinglin
Published: September 2011

It is well documented that PPARαand PPARβ/δshare overlapping functions in regulating myocardial lipid metabolism. However, previous studies demonstrated that cardiomyocyte-restricted PPARβ/δdeficiency in mice leads to severe cardiac pathological development, whereas global PPARαknockout shows a benign cardiac phenotype. It is unknown whether a PPARα-null background would alter the pathological development in mice with cardiomyocyte-restricted PPARβ/δdeficiency. In the present study, a mouse model with long-term PPARβ/δdeficiency in PPARα-null background showed a comparably reduced cardiac expression of lipid metabolism to those of single PPAR-deficient mouse models. The PPARα-null background did not rescue or aggravate the cardiac pathological development linked to cardiomyocyte-restricted PPARβ/δdeficiency. Moreover, PPARα-null did not alter the phenotypic development in adult mice with the short-term deletion of PPARβ/δin their hearts, which showed mitochondrial abnormalities, depressed cardiac performance, and cardiac hypertrophy with attenuated expression of key factors in mitochondrial biogenesis and defense. The present study demonstrates that cardiomyocyte-restricted deletion of PPARβ/δin PPARα-null mice causes impaired mitochondrial biogenesis and defense, but no further depression of fatty acid oxidation. Therefore, PPARβ/δis essential for maintaining mitochondrial biogenesis and defense in cardiomyocytes independent of PPARα.
Chopper Is Prodeath Regardless of the Effect of p75ICD on Sensitivity to Oxidative Stress
Authors: Qazi Alliya , Halterman Marc W. , Mi Zhiping , Zhang Tong , Schor Nina F.
Published: September 2011

Background. The intracellular domain (ICD) of the neurotrophin receptor, p75NTR, exhibits variably pro- and antiapoptotic activity and has been implicated in neurodegenerative and neurodestructive disease. The molecular determinants of these cellular effects are not completely understood. The “Chopper” domain of p75ICD has been shown to be proapoptotic inin vitrosystems in which p75ICD is proapoptotic. The effects of Chopper in systems in which p75ICD is antiapoptotic and, therefore, whether or not Chopper accounts for the variability of the cellular effects of p75ICD are not known. We therefore examined the effects of deletion of Chopper on the effects of p75ICD onin vitrocell culture systems in which p75ICD is pro- or antiapoptotic, respectively.Results. In HN33.11 murine neuroblastoma-hippocampal neuron hybrid cells, p75ICD is antiapoptotic. In NIH 3T3 cells, p75ICD is proapoptotic. In both cell lines deletion of the Chopper domain from p75ICD decreases the incidence of apoptosis resulting from oxidative stress. Thus, irrespective of the nature of the effects of p75ICD on the cell, its Chopper domain is proapoptotic.Conclusions. Expression of p75ICD can enhance or attenuate oxidative induction of apoptosis. Variability of the effects of p75ICD is not related to variability of the effects of its Chopper domain.
Extended Jacobi Elliptic Function Expansion Method to the ZK‐MEW Equation
Authors: Zhang Weimin
Published: September 2011

The extended Jacobi elliptic function expansion method is applied for Zakharov‐Kuznetsov‐modified equal‐width (ZK‐MEW) equation. With the aid of symbolic computation, we construct some new Jacobi elliptic doubly periodic wave solutions and the corresponding solitary wave solutions and triangular functional (singly periodic) solutions.
A Novel Application of Zero‐Current‐Switching Quasiresonant Buck Converter for Battery Chargers
Authors: Chen Kuo-Kuang
Published: September 2011

The main purpose of this paper is to develop a novel application of a resonant switch converter for battery chargers. A zero‐current‐switching (ZCS) converter with a quasiresonant converter (QRC) was used as the main structure. The proposed ZCS dc–dc battery charger has a straightforward structure, low cost, easy control, and high efficiency. The operating principles and design procedure of the proposed charger are thoroughly analyzed. The optimal values of the resonant components are computed by applying the characteristic curve and electric functions derived from the circuit configuration. Experiments were conducted using lead‐acid batteries. The optimal parameters of the resonance components were determined using the load characteristic curve diagrams. These values enable the battery charger to turn on and off at zero current, resulting in a reduction of switching losses. The results of the experiments show that when compared with the traditional pulse‐width‐modulation (PWM) converter for a battery charger, the buck converter with a zero‐ current‐switching quasiresonant converter can lower the temperature of the activepower switch.
The Effects of Wear upon the Axial Profile of a Grinding Wheel in the Construction of Innovative Grinding Wheels for Internal Cylindrical Grinding
Authors: Nadolny K. , Słowiński B.
Published: September 2011

The article describes the effects of wear upon the axial profile of a grinding wheel in the axial cylindrical grinding processes. This mechanism was used to develop a grinding wheel with zone diversified structure made of microcrystalline sintered corundum abrasive grains and vitrifies bond. Such a grinding wheel is characterized by the conical rough grinding zone that is made by grains of a relatively large size, and a cylindrical finish grinding zone with grains of a smaller size and can be used in the single-pass grinding processes. Investigative tests conducted using newly-developed grinding wheels were described. Investigations were operated in the single-pass internal cylindrical grinding process of 100Cr6 steel. A comparison of results obtained using a zone diversified structure grinding wheel, with reference to a grinding wheel with grains of one size, were given. The analysis provides the roughness of the grinded surface, the grinding power, as well as chosen indicators of grinding efficiency. Experimental results obtained with use of a zone-diversified grinding wheel, built from relatively cheap grains of microcrystalline sintered corundum, showed that it is possible to obtain large material removal rate up to approximately 24 mm3/s and high quality of machined surface ( μm).
Classification and Regression Trees on Aggregate Data Modeling: An Application in Acute Myocardial Infarction
Authors: Quantin C. , Billard L. , Touati M. , Andreu N. , Cottin Y. , Zeller M. , Afonso F. , Battaglia G. , Seck D. , Le Teuff G. , Diday E.
Published: September 2011

Cardiologists are interested in determining whether the type of hospital pathway followed by a patient is predictive of survival. The study objective was to determine whether accounting for hospital pathways in the selection of prognostic factors of one‐year survival after acute myocardial infarction (AMI) provided a more informative analysis than that obtained by the use of a standard regression tree analysis (CART method). Information on AMI was collected for 1095 hospitalized patients over an 18‐month period. The construction of pathways followed by patients produced symbolic‐valued observations requiring a symbolic regression tree analysis. This analysis was compared with the standard CART analysis using patients as statistical units described by standard data selected TIMI score as the primary predictor variable. For the 1011 (84, resp.) patients with a lower (higher) TIMI score, the pathway variable did not appear as a diagnostic variable until the third (second) stage of the tree construction. For an ecological analysis, again TIMI score was the first predictor variable. However, in a symbolic regression tree analysis using hospital pathways as statistical units, the type of pathway followed was the key predictor variable, showing in particular that pathways involving early admission to cardiology units produced high one‐year survival rates.
Experimental and Numerical Study of At-Rest Lateral Earth Pressure of Overconsolidated Sand
Authors: El-Emam Magdi
Published: September 2011

The paper presents a one-meter-height rigid facing panel, supported rigidly at the top and bottom to simulate nonyielding retaining wall system. A set of load cells is used to measure the horizontal force at the top and bottom of the facing panel, which is converted to equivalent horizontal earth pressure acting at the back of the wall. Another set of load cells is used to measure the vertical load at the bottom of the wall facing, both at the toe and the heel. Uniformly graded sand was used as backfill soil. The measured wall responses were used to calibrate a numerical model that used to predict additional wall parameters. Results indicated that the measured horizontal earth force is about three times the value calculated by classical at-rest earth pressure theory. In addition, the location of the resultant earth force is located closer to 0.4 H, which is higher compared to the theoretical value of H/3. The numerical model developed was able to predict the earth pressure distribution over the wall height. Test set up, instrumentation, soil properties, different measured responses, and numerical model procedures and results are presented together with the implication of the current results to the practical work.
Impeller Design of a Centrifugal Fan with Blade Optimization
Authors: Lee Yu-Tai , Ahuja Vineet , Hosangadi Ashvin , Slipper Michael E. , Mulvihill Lawrence P. , Birkbeck Roger , Coleman Roderick M.
Published: September 2011

A method is presented for redesigning a centrifugal impeller and its inlet duct. The double-discharge volute casing is a structural constraint and is maintained for its shape. The redesign effort was geared towards meeting the design volute exit pressure while reducing the power required to operate the fan. Given the high performance of the baseline impeller, the redesign adopted a high-fidelity CFD-based computational approach capable of accounting for all aerodynamic losses. The present effort utilized a numerical optimization with experiential steering techniques to redesign the fan blades, inlet duct, and shroud of the impeller. The resulting flow path modifications not only met the pressure requirement, but also reduced the fan power by 8.8% over the baseline. A refined CFD assessment of the impeller/volute coupling and the gap between the stationary duct and the rotating shroud revealed a reduction in efficiency due to the volute and the gap. The calculations verified that the new impeller matches better with the original volute. Model-fan measured data was used to validate CFD predictions and impeller design goals. The CFD results further demonstrate a Reynolds-number effect between the model- and full-scale fans.
The Largest Bio‐Silica Structure on Earth: The Giant Basal Spicule from the Deep‐Sea Glass Sponge Monorhaphis chuni
Authors: Wang Xiaohong , Gan Lu , Jochum Klaus P. , Schröder Heinz C. , Müller Werner E. G.
Published: September 2011

The depth of the ocean is plentifully populated with a highly diverse fauna and flora, from where the Challenger expedition (1873–1876) treasured up a rich collection of vitreous sponges [Hexactinellida]. They have been described by Schulze and represent the phylogenetically oldest class of siliceous sponges [phylum Porifera]; they are eye‐catching because of their distinct body plan, which relies on a filigree skeleton. It is constructed by an array of morphologically determined elements, the spicules. Later, during the German Deep Sea Expedition “Valdivia” (1898‐1899), Schulze could describe the largest siliceous hexactinellid sponge on Earth, the up to 3 m high Monorhaphis chuni, which develops the equally largest bio‐silica structures, the giant basal spicules (3 m × 10 mm). With such spicules as a model, basic knowledge on the morphology, formation, and development of the skeletal elements could be elaborated. Spicules are formed by a proteinaceous scaffold which mediates the formation of siliceous lamellae in which the proteins are encased. Up to eight hundred 5 to 10 μm thick lamellae can be concentrically arranged around an axial canal. The silica matrix is composed of almost pure silicon and oxygen, providing it with unusual optophysical properties that are superior to those of man‐made waveguides. Experiments indicated that the spicules function in vivo as a nonocular photoreception system. In addition, the spicules have exceptional mechanical properties, combining mechanical stability with strength and stiffness. Like demosponges the hexactinellids synthesize their silica enzymatically, via the enzyme silicatein. All these basic insights will surely contribute also to a further applied utilization and exploration of bio‐silica in material/medical science.
On the Extensions of Krasnoselskii‐Type Theorems to p‐Cyclic Self‐Mappings in Banach Spaces
Authors: De la Sen M.
Published: September 2011

A set of np(≥2)‐cyclic and either continuous or contractive self‐mappings, with at least one of them being contractive, which are defined on a set of subsets of a Banach space, are considered to build a composed self‐mapping of interest. The existence and uniqueness of fixed points and the existence of best proximity points, in the case that the subsets do not intersect, of such composed mappings are investigated by stating and proving ad hoc extensions of several Krasnoselskii‐type theorems.
Communication, Psychosocial, and Educational Outcomes of Children with Cochlear Implants and Challenges Remaining for Professionals and Parents
Authors: Punch Renée , Hyde Merv B.
Published: September 2011

This paper provides an overview and a synthesis of the findings of a large, multifaceted study investigating outcomes from paediatric cochlear implantation. The study included children implanted at several Australian implant clinics and attending a variety of early intervention and educational settings across a range of locations in eastern Australia. It investigated three major aspects of childhood cochlear implantation: (1) parental expectations of their children's implantation, (2) families' decision-making processes, and (3) the communication, social, and educational outcomes of cochlear implantation for deaf children. It employed a mixed-methods approach in which quantitative survey data were gathered from 247 parents and 151 teachers, and qualitative data from semistructured interviews with 27 parents, 15 teachers, and 11 children and adolescents with cochlear implants. The summarised findings highlight several areas where challenges remain for implant clinics, parents, and educators if children with cochlear implants are to reach their full potential personally, educationally, and socially.
A Final Result on the Oscillation of Solutions of the Linear Discrete Delayed Equation Δx(n) = −p(n)x(n − k) with a Positive Coefficient
Authors: Baštinec J. , Berezansky L. , Diblík J. , Šmarda Z.
Published: September 2011

A linear (k + 1)th‐order discrete delayed equation Δx(n) = −p(n)x(n − k) where p(n) a positive sequence is considered for n → ∞. This equation is known to have a positive solution if the sequence p(n) satisfies an inequality. Our aim is to show that, in the case of the opposite inequality for p(n), all solutions of the equation considered are oscillating for n → ∞.
Adding TiC Nanoparticles to Magnesium Alloy ZK60A for Strength/Ductility Enhancement
Authors: Paramsothy Muralidharan , Chan Jimmy , Kwok Richard , Gupta Manoj
Published: September 2011

ZK60A nanocomposite containing TiC nanoparticles was fabricated using solidification processing followed by hot extrusion. The ZK60A nanocomposite exhibited similar grain size to monolithic ZK60A and significantly reduced presence of intermetallic phase, reasonable TiC nanoparticle distribution, nondominant (0 0 0 2) texture in the longitudinal direction, and 16% lower hardness than monolithic ZK60A. Compared to monolithic ZK60A (in tension), the ZK60A nanocomposite simultaneously exhibited higher 0.2% TYS, UTS, failure strain, and work of fracture (WOF) (+13%, +15%, +76%, and +106%, resp.). Also, compared to monolithic ZK60A (in compression), the ZK60A nanocomposite exhibited lower 0.2% CYS (−17%) and higher UCS, failure strain, and WOF (+11%, +29%, and +34%, resp.). The beneficial effect of adding TiC nanoparticles on the enhanced tensile and compressive response of ZK60A is investigated in this paper.
Accelerometry-Based Classification of Human Activities Using Markov Modeling
Authors: Mannini Andrea , Sabatini Angelo Maria
Published: September 2011

Accelerometers are a popular choice as body-motion sensors: the reason is partly in their capability of extracting information that is useful for automatically inferring the physical activity in which the human subject is involved, beside their role in feeding biomechanical parameters estimators. Automatic classification of human physical activities is highly attractive for pervasive computing systems, whereas contextual awareness may ease the human-machine interaction, and in biomedicine, whereas wearable sensor systems are proposed for long-term monitoring. This paper is concerned with the machine learning algorithms needed to perform the classification task. Hidden Markov Model (HMM) classifiers are studied by contrasting them with Gaussian Mixture Model (GMM) classifiers. HMMs incorporate the statistical information available on movement dynamics into the classification process, without discarding the time history of previous outcomes as GMMs do. An example of the benefits of the obtained statistical leverage is illustrated and discussed by analyzing two datasets of accelerometer time series.
Hybrid Algorithms for Minimization Problems over the Solutions of Generalized Mixed Equilibrium and Variational Inclusion Problems
Authors: Jitpeera Thanyarat , Kumam Poom
Published: September 2011

We introduce a new general hybrid iterative algorithm for finding a common
element of the set of solution of fixed point for a nonexpansive mapping, the set of solution of
generalized mixed equilibrium problem, and the set of solution of the variational inclusion for a β‐inverse‐strongly monotone mapping in a real Hilbert space. We prove that the sequence converges
strongly to a common element of the above three sets under some mild conditions. Our results improve
and extend the corresponding results of Marino and Xu (2006), Yao and Liou (2010), Tan and Chang
(2011), and other authors.
Intraoperative Hyperglycemia Augments Ischemia Reperfusion Injury in Renal Transplantation: A Prospective Study
Authors: Parekh Justin , Niemann Claus U. , Dang Kim , Hirose Ryutaro
Published: September 2011

Background. Diabetes is a risk factor for delayed graft function in kidney transplantation, and hyperglycemia increases ischemia reperfusion injury in animal models.Methods. To explore the role of perioperative hyperglycemia in ischemia reperfusion injury, we conducted a prospective study of 40 patients undergoing living donor renal transplantation. Blood glucose levels were monitored intraoperatively, and serum samples were obtained at the time anesthesia was induced and one hour after allograft reperfusion. The percentage change in neutrophil gelatinase-associated lipocalin (NGAL), a protein whose expression is increased with renal ischemia, was then used to determine the extent of injury.Results. In a multivariate model including recipient, donor, and transplant factors, recipient blood glucose>160 mg/dL at the time of allograft reperfusion (β0.19,P-value < 0.01), warm ischemia time >30 minutes (β0.11,P-value 0.13), and recipient age (β0.05,P-value 0.05) were associated with percentage change in NGAL. These same predictors were associated with the percentage change in creatinine on postoperative day 2.Conclusions. Hyperglycemia is associated with increased ischemic injury in renal transplantation. Both creatinine and NGAL, a marker of ischemic injury and renal function, fall less rapidly in patients with elevated blood glucose.
Influence of Multiharmonics Excitation on Rattle Noise in Automotive Gearboxes
Authors: Kadmiri Y. , Perret-Liaudet J. , Rigaud E. , Le Bot A. , Vary L.
Published: September 2011

We consider the automotive gearbox rattle noise resulting from vibro‐impacts that can occur between the idle gears under excessive velocity fluctuations of the shaft‐driving gears imposed by engine torque fluctuation. Even if the rattling phenomenon has no consequence on reliability, it may be particularly annoying for vehicle interior sound quality and acoustic comfort. The main parameters governing such kind of vibrations are the excitation source associated with engine torque fluctuation which can be modeled by an imposed displacement of the driveline, the inertia of the idle gear, the drag torque acting during the free flight motion, and the impact laws. In the case of rattle, it is reasonable to assume that duration of impacts between teeth is very short compared to the excitation period. Then, these impacts are modeled by a coefficient of restitution law. The excitation source is not composed only with fundamental component but also with other harmonic components. This study presents some effects of these additional components on the dynamic response of the idle gear.
Integrated Models for Solid Waste Management in Tourism Regions: Langkawi Island, Malaysia
Authors: Shamshiry Elmira , Nadi Behzad , Bin Mokhtar Mazlin , Komoo Ibrahim , Saadiah Hashim Halimaton , Yahaya Nadzri
Published: September 2011

The population growth, changing consumption patterns, and rapid urbanization contribute significantly to the growing volumes of solid waste that are generated in urban settings. As the rate of urbanization increases, demand on the services of solid waste management increases. The rapid urban growth in Langkawi Island, Malaysia, combined with the increasing rates of solid waste production has provided evidence that the traditional solid waste management practices, particularly the methods of waste collection and disposal, are inefficient and quite nonsustainable. Accordingly, municipal managers and planners in Langkawi need to look for and adopt a model for solid waste management that emphasizes an efficient and sustainable management of solid wastes in Langkawi Island. This study presents the current practices of solid waste management in Langkawi Island, describes the composition of the solid waste generated in that area, and presents views of local residents and tourist on issues related to solid waste management like the aesthetic value of the island environment. The most important issue of this paper is that it is the first time that integrated solid waste management is investigated in the Langkawi Island.
Clinicopathological Role of Serum-Derived Hyaluronan-Associated Protein (SHAP)-Hyaluronan Complex in Endometrial Cancer
Authors: Yabushita Hiromitsu , Iwasaki Keita , Kanyama Kouhei , Obayashi Yukihiko , Zhuo Lisheng , Itano Naoki , Kimata Koji , Wakatsuki Akihiko
Published: September 2011

The role of hyaluronan (HA), serum-derived HA-associated protein (SHAP)-HA complex and hyaluronan synthase (HAS) in endometrial carcinomas was investigated. The relationship of metalloproteinase (MMP) and its inhibitor (TIMP) with HA and the SHAP-HA complex was also examined. The expression of HAS1 was related to the depth of myometrial invasion and lymph-vascular space involvement. The serum levels of HA, SHAP-HA complex, MMP-9, and TIMP-1 were increased in related with the depth of myometrial invasion, histological grade and lymph-vascular space involvement. They were also higher in the HAS1-positive group compared to -negative group. The serum concentrations of HA and SHAP-HA complex had a significant correlation with the MMP-9 and TIMP-1. The patients with elevated SHAP-HA complex had the shorter disease-free survival. The multivariate analysis revealed that the SHAP-HA complex was the independent variable for disease-free survival of endometrial cancer patients. In conclusion, the elevation of serum SHAP-HA complex depended on the HAS1 expression and the SHAP-HA complex is a useful marker to predict disease recurrence in endometrial cancer patients. The SHAP-HA complex may promote the lymph-vascular space involvement and the synthesis and activation of MMP-9 and TIMP-1 in the progression of endometrial cancer.
Numerical Investigations on Several Stabilized Finite Element Methods for the Stokes Eigenvalue Problem
Authors: Huang Pengzhan , He Yinnian , Feng Xinlong
Published: September 2011

Several stabilized finite element methods for the Stokes eigenvalue problem based on the lowest equal‐order finite element pair are numerically investigated. They are penalty, regular, multiscale enrichment, and local Gauss integration method. Comparisons between them are carried out, which show that the local Gauss integration method has good stability, efficiency, and accuracy properties, and it is a favorite method among these methods for the Stokes eigenvalue problem.
Magnetron Sputtered NbN Films with Nb Interlayer on Mild Steel
Authors: Singh Kulwant , Bidaye A. C. , Suri A. K.
Published: September 2011

The aim of the study is to extend the NbN coating on MS with Nb interlayer to explore the benefits of hard nitride coatings on low-cost structural material and to compare the coating with NbN monolithic coating on SS. NbN on MS and SS was deposited by reactive d.c. magnetron sputtering at various N2/Ar flow ratios and substrate bias. Deposition rate decreased from 20 to 10 nm/min (without biasing) and from 16 to 8 nm/min (−50 V biasing) when ratio was varied from zero to 70%. Deposition rate decreased with the increase in bias voltage. Coatings showed hexagonalβNb2N, cubicδNbN, and hexagonalδ′ NbN as major phases with the increasing N2flow. Surface hardness reached a maximum of 2040 HK25at a of 20%. Critical loads, for cohesive and adhesive failure for coating on MS, were between 6–8 N and 9–12 N respectively; for coating on SS, the values were between 7–15 N and 12–25 N respectively. Duplex coatings were studied for hardness by Knoop microindentation, adhesion by scratch tester, and corrosion by potentiodynamic polarization technique. Hardness, adhesion, and corrosion resistance all improved when NbN coating was incorporated with Nb interlayer on MS.
Remote Detection of the Electric Field Change Induced at the Seismic Wave Front from the Start of Fault Rupturing
Authors: Fujinawa Yukio , Takahashi Kozo , Noda Yoichi , Iitaka Hiroshi , Yazaki Shinobu
Published: September 2011

Seismic waves are generally observed through the measurement of undulating elastic ground motion. We report the remote detection of the Earth's electric field variations almost simultaneously with the start of fault rupturing at about 100 km from the fault region using a special electric measurement. The rare but repeated detection indicates that the phenomenon is real. The characteristic time of diffusion is almost instantaneous, that is, less than 1 second to travel 100 km, more than ten times faster than ordinary seismic P wave propagation. We suggest that the measured electric field changes are produced by the electrokinetic effect through increased pore water pressure of the seismic pulse. It is also suggested that the long range propagation is due to the surface wave mode confined near the interface of the different conductivity. The length scale of the finite strength of the electric field is 16 km, 160 km for electric conductivity of 0.01, 0.001, Sm−1, respectively. This phenomenon suggests a new seismic sensing method and a new earthquake early warning system providing more seconds of lead time.
Progress in Thin Film Solar Cells Based onCu2ZnSnS4
Authors: Wang Hongxia
Published: September 2011

The research in thin film solar cells has been dominated by light absorber materials based on CdTe and Cu(In,Ga)Se2(CIGS) in the last several decades. The concerns of environment impact of cadmium and the limited availability of indium in those materials have driven the research towards developing new substitute light absorbers made from earth abundant, environment benign materials. Cu2ZnSnS4(CZTS) semiconductor material has emerged as one of the most promising candidates for this aim and has attracted considerable interest recently. Significant progress in this relatively new research area has been achieved in the last three years. Over 130 papers on CZTS have been published since 2007, and the majority of them are on the preparation of CZTS thin films by different methods. This paper, will review the wide range of techniques that have been used to deposit CZTS semiconductor thin films. The performance of the thin film solar cells using the CZTS material will also be discussed.
2-Pyrrolidinones and 3-Pyrrolin-2-ones: A Study on the Chemical Reactivity of These Structural Moieties
Authors: Alves José C. F.
Published: September 2011

The chemical reactivity of 2-pyrrolidinones and 3-pyrrolin-2-ones was evaluated in reactions of addition, nucleophilic substitution, elimination, and reduction as well as the protection of the lactamic nitrogen.
CFD Modeling of Wall Steam Condensation: Two‐Phase Flow Approach versus Homogeneous Flow Approach
Authors: Mimouni S. , Mechitoua N. , Foissac A. , Hassanaly M. , Ouraou M.
Published: September 2011

The present work is focused on the condensation heat transfer that plays a dominant role in many accident scenarios postulated to occur in the containment of nuclear reactors. The study compares a general multiphase approach implemented in NEPTUNE_CFD with a homogeneous model, of widespread use for engineering studies, implemented in Code_Saturne. The model implemented in NEPTUNE_CFD assumes that liquid droplets form along the wall within nucleation sites. Vapor condensation on droplets makes them grow. Once the droplet diameter reaches a critical value, gravitational forces compensate surface tension force and then droplets slide over the wall and form a liquid film. This approach allows taking into account simultaneously the mechanical drift between the droplet and the gas, the heat and mass transfer on droplets in the core of the flow and the condensation/evaporation phenomena on the walls. As concern the homogeneous approach, the motion of the liquid film due to the gravitational forces is neglected, as well as the volume occupied by the liquid. Both condensation models and compressible procedures are validated and compared to experimental data provided by the TOSQAN ISP47 experiment (IRSN Saclay). Computational results compare favorably with experimental data, particularly for the Helium and steam volume fractions.
Comparison of the Growth of SixEucalyptusSpecies in Angola
Authors: Delgado-Matas Cristobal , Pukkala Timo
Published: September 2011

Eucalyptusspecies have been planted in Angola since the early twentieth century. The species introduction experiment of Tchianga, in the Angolan Highlands, was established in 1966/1967. The experiment included several tropical pines and eucalypts. The plots were 43 years old when measured in 2009. Species includedEucalyptus salignaSm.,E. camaldulensisDehnh.,E. macarthuriiH. Deane & Maiden,E. resiniferaSm.,E. siderophloiaBenth., andE. grandisHill ex. Maiden.E. salignahad the highest stand volume at 43 years (1427 m3 ha−1), followed byE. grandis(1006 m3 ha−1).E. macarthuriiandE. camaldulensishad the lowest stand volume (423 and 511 m3 ha−1, resp.). Using X-ray analyses of increment cores, it was possible to study the temporal development of the stand characteristics. An analysis of the mean annual increment showed that the optimal rotation length for most of the studied eucalypts is around 22 years with the exception ofE. resinifera, for which 12–15 years is the best.E. salignahad the highest maximum mean annual increment (MMAI) of 37 m3 ha−1attained at 22 years of age.E. grandisreached its MMAI of 25 m3 ha−1at 28 years. The results suggest thatE. salignais the most recommendedEucalyptusspecies for new plantations in Angola.
Angiogenesis in Acute Myeloid Leukemia and Opportunities for Novel Therapies
Authors: Trujillo Angelica , McGee Christie , Cogle Christopher R.
Published: September 2011

Acute myeloid leukemia (AML) arises from neoplastic transformation of hematopoietic stem and progenitor cells, and relapsed disease remains one of the greater challenges in treating this hematologic malignancy. This paper focuses on angiogenic aspects of AML including the significance and prognostic value of bone marrow microvessel density and circulating cytokine levels. We show three general mechanisms whereby AML exploits angiogenic pathways, including direct induction of angiogenesis, paracrine regulation, and autocrine stimulation. We also present early evidence that leukemia cells contribute directly to vascular endothelia. Novel treatment strategies are proposed, and a review of relevant antiangiogenic clinical trials is presented. By understanding how blood vessels can serve as a reservoir for refractory and relapsed AML, new diagnostics and promising treatment strategies can be developed.
Candida albicansversusCandida dubliniensis: Why IsC. albicansMore Pathogenic?
Authors: Moran Gary P. , Coleman David C. , Sullivan Derek J.
Published: September 2011

Candida albicansandCandida dubliniensisare highly related pathogenic yeast species. However,C. albicansis far more prevalent in human infection and has been shown to be more pathogenic in a wide range of infection models. Comparison of the genomes of the two species has revealed that they are very similar although there are some significant differences, largely due to the expansion of virulence-related gene families (e.g.,ALSandSAP) inC. albicans, and increased levels of pseudogenisation inC. dubliniensis. Comparative global gene expression analyses have also been used to investigate differences in the ability of the two species to tolerate environmental stress and to produce hyphae, two traits that are likely to play a role in the lower virulence ofC. dubliniensis. Taken together, these data suggest thatC. dubliniensisis in the process of undergoing reductive evolution and may have become adapted for growth in a specialized anatomic niche.
Fractal-Shaped Metamaterials and Applications to Enhanced-Performance Devices Exhibiting High Selectivity
Authors: Xu He-Xiu , Wang Guang-Ming , Zhang Chen-Xin
Published: September 2011

Novel single negative metamaterial (MTM) transmission lines (TLs) are presented and studied in microstrip technology. They consist of a host TL in the conductor strip and a fractal-shaped complementary ring resonator (CRR) etched in the ground plane. Two types of fractal-shaped CRR are involved including the Moore and Hilbert. It is found that fractal perturbation in CRR results in lower and more transmission zeros in comparison with conventional CRR using nonfractal geometries. The single negative-permeability or -permittivity of these MTM TLs which associated with the resultant multitransmission zeros occurs by turns and should benefit devices with high selectivity requirement. Potential application of these MTM cells are illustrated by two examples, one is the microstrip stepped-impedance transformers (SIT) operating at 3.5 GHz with two edged attenuation poles to introduce selectivity; the other one is the Hi-Lo microstrip low-pass filter (LPF) with cutoff frequency 2.5 GHz exhibiting improved selectivity (77.3 dB/GHz). By constructing the low-impedance sections as hybrid prefractal shape and crown square, both the SITs and LPF obtained additional bandwidth enhancement and good matching. Consistent results between simulation and measurement have confirmed the design concept.
Novel Diagnostic Model for the Deficient and Excess Pulse Qualities
Authors: Kim Jaeuk U. , Jeon Young Ju , Kim Young-Min , Lee Hae Jung , Kim Jong Yeol
Published: September 2011

The deficient and excess pulse qualities (DEPs) are the two representatives of the deficiency and excess syndromes, respectively. Despite its importance in the objectification of pulse diagnosis, a reliable classification model for the DEPs has not been reported to date. In this work, we propose a classification method for the DEPs based on a clinical study. First, through factor analysis and Fisher's discriminant analysis, we show that all the pulse amplitudes obtained at various applied pressures at Chon, Gwan, and Cheok contribute on equal orders of magnitude in the determination of the DEPs. Then, we discuss that the pulse pressure or the average pulse amplitude is appropriate for describing the collective behaviors of the pulse amplitudes and a simple and reliable classification can be constructed from either quantity. Finally, we propose an enhanced classification model that combines the two complementary variables sequentially.
Overexpression of PGC-1αIncreases Fatty Acid Oxidative Capacity of Human Skeletal Muscle Cells
Authors: Nikolić Nataša , Rhedin Magdalena , Rustan Arild C. , Storlien Len , Thoresen G. Hege , Strömstedt Maria
Published: September 2011

We investigated the effects of PGC-1α(peroxisome proliferator-activated receptorγcoactivator-1α) overexpression on the oxidative capacity of human skeletal muscle cellsex vivo. PGC-1αoverexpression increased the oxidation rate of palmitic acid and mRNA expression of genes regulating lipid metabolism, mitochondrial biogenesis, and function in human myotubes. Basal and insulin-stimulated deoxyglucose uptake were decreased, possibly due to upregulation of PDK4 mRNA. Expression of fast fiber-type gene marker (MHCIIa) was decreased. Compared to skeletal musclein vivo, PGC-1αoverexpression increased expression of several genes, which were downregulated during the process of cell isolation and culturing. In conclusion, PGC-1αoverexpression increased oxidative capacity of cultured myotubes by improving lipid metabolism, increasing expression of genes involved in regulation of mitochondrial function and biogenesis, and decreasing expression of MHCIIa. These results suggest that therapies aimed at increasing PGC-1αexpression may have utility in treatment of obesity and obesity-related diseases.
Liuwei Dihuang Lowers Body Weight and Improves Insulin and Leptin Sensitivity in Obese Rats
Authors: Perry Benjamin , Zhang Junzeng , Sun Changhao , Saleh Tarek , Wang Yanwen
Published: September 2011

The present study was aimed at investigating the efficacy and mechanism(s) of action of a Chinese herbal formulation, Liuwei Dihuang (LWDH), as a prospective natural weight-lowering product. Following a 2-week acclimation period, 48 obesity-prone (OP-CD) rats were divided into 4 groups (n=12each). One group served as a positive control for obesity (OP), while the other 3 were challenged twice daily by oral gavage with total daily dosages of 500, 1500, or 3500 mg/kg BW LWDH, respectively, for 10 weeks. One group (n=12) of obesity-resistant (OR-CD) rats served as the normal control group. All rats were fed the same AIN-93G diet modified to contain 60% energy from fat. The highest LWDH dose significantly reduced body weight during the last 4 weeks of treatment. Food intake was reduced beginning in week 2. The high LWDH dose lowered serum triglyceride (TG) and nonesterified fatty acid (NEFA) levels and body fat. Both the high and medium doses also lowered serum leptin and insulin levels. Liver function testing revealed no adverse side effects under the current experimental conditions. The results of the present study suggest that LWDH has potential as a preventive or therapeutic natural product against overweight and obesity.
Development of Vaccines against Visceral Leishmaniasis
Authors: Evans Krystal J. , Kedzierski Lukasz
Published: September 2011

Leishmaniasis is a neglected disease resulting in a global morbidity of 2,090 thousand Disability-Adjusted Life Years and a mortality rate of approximately 60,000 per year. Among the three clinical forms of leishmaniasis (cutaneous, mucosal, and visceral), visceral leishmaniasis (VL) accounts for the majority of mortality, as if left untreated VL is almost always fatal. Caused by infection withLeishmania donovaniorL. infantum, VL represents a serious public health problem in endemic regions and is rapidly emerging as an opportunistic infection in HIV patients. To date, no vaccine exists for VL or any other form of leishmaniasis. In endemic areas, the majority of those infected do not develop clinical symptoms and past infection leads to robust immunity against reinfection. Thus the development of vaccine forLeishmaniais a realistic public health goal, and this paper summarizes advances in vaccination strategies against VL.
Amplification of Frequency-Modulated Similariton Pulses in Length-Inhomogeneous Active Fibers
Authors: Zolotovskii I. O. , Sementsov D. I. , Sysolyatin A. A. , Belanov A. S. , Yavtushenko M. S.
Published: September 2011

The possibility of an effective gain of the self-similar frequency-modulated (FM) wave packets is studied in the length-inhomogeneous active fibers. The dynamics of parabolic pulses with the constant chirp has been considered. The optimal profile for the change of the group-velocity dispersion corresponding to the optimal similariton pulse amplification has been obtained. It is shown that the use of FM pulses in the active (gain) and length-inhomogeneous optical fibers with the normal group-velocity dispersion can provide subpicosecond optical pulse amplification up to the energies higher than 1 nJ.
Toll-like Receptor 9 Agonist IMO Cooperates with Cetuximab in K-Ras Mutant Colorectal and Pancreatic Cancers
Authors: Rosa Roberta , Melisi Davide , Damiano Vincenzo , Bianco Roberto , Garofalo Sonia , Gelardi Teresa , Agrawal Sudhir , Di Nicolantonio Federica , Scarpa Aldo , Bardelli Alberto , Tortora Giampaolo
Published: September 2011

Purpose: K-Ras somatic mutations are a strong predictive biomarker for resistance to epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) inhibitors in patients with colorectal and pancreatic cancer. We previously showed that the novel Toll-like receptor 9 (TLR9) agonist immunomodulatory oligonucleotide (IMO) has a strong in vivo activity in colorectal cancer models by interfering with EGFR-related signaling and synergizing with the anti-EGFR monoclonal antibody cetuximab.

Experimental Design: In the present study, we investigated, both in vitro and in vivo, the antitumor effect of IMO alone or in combination with cetuximab in subcutaneous colon and orthotopic pancreatic cancer models harboring K-Ras mutations and resistance to EGFR inhibitors.

Results: We showed that IMO was able to significantly restore the sensitivity of K-Ras mutant cancer cells to cetuximab, producing a marked inhibition of cell survival and a complete suppression of mitogen—activated protein kinase phosphorylation, when used in combination with cetuximab. IMO interfered with EGFR-dependent signaling, modulating the functional interaction between TLR9 and EGFR. In vivo, IMO plus cetuximab combination caused a potent and long-lasting cooperative antitumor activity in LS174T colorectal cancer and in orthotopic AsPC1 pancreatic cancer. The capability of IMO to restore cetuximab sensitivity was further confirmed by using K-Ras mutant colorectal cancer cell models obtained through homologous recombination technology.

Conclusions: We showed that IMO markedly inhibits growth of K-Ras mutant colon and pancreatic cancers in vitro and in nude mice and cooperates with cetuximab via multiple mechanisms of action. Therefore, we propose IMO plus cetuximab as a therapeutic strategy for K-Ras wild-type as well for K-Ras mutant, cetuximab-resistant colorectal and pancreatic cancers. Clin Cancer Res; 17(20); 6531–41. ©2011 AACR.
A 5-MicroRNA Signature for Lung Squamous Cell Carcinoma Diagnosis and hsa-miR-31 for Prognosis
Authors: Tan Xiaogang , Qin Wenyan , Zhang Liang , Hang Jie , Li Baozhong , Zhang Cuiyan , Wan Junting , Zhou Fang , Shao Kang , Sun Yimin , Wu Jianping , Zhang Xun , Qiu Bin , Li Ning , Shi Susheng , Feng Xiaoli , Zhao Shouhua , Wang Zhen , Zhao Xiaohong , Chen Zhaoli , Mitchelson Keith , Cheng Jing , Guo Yong , He Jie
Published: September 2011

Purpose: Recent studies have suggested that microRNA biomarkers could be useful for stratifying lung cancer subtypes, but microRNA signatures varied between different populations. Squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) is one major subtype of lung cancer that urgently needs biomarkers to aid patient management. Here, we undertook the first comprehensive investigation on microRNA in Chinese SCC patients.

Experimental Design: MicroRNA expression was measured in cancerous and noncancerous tissue pairs strictly collected from Chinese SCC patients (stages I–III), who had not been treated with chemotherapy or radiotherapy prior to surgery. The molecular targets of proposed microRNA were further examined.

Results: We identified a 5-microRNA classifier (hsa-miR-210, hsa-miR-182, hsa-miR-486-5p, hsa-miR-30a, and hsa-miR-140-3p) that could distinguish SCC from normal lung tissues. The classifier had an accuracy of 94.1% in a training cohort (34 patients) and 96.2% in a test cohort (26 patients). We also showed that high expression of hsa-miR-31 was associated with poor survival in these 60 SCC patients by Kaplan–Meier analysis (P = 0.007), by univariate Cox analysis (P = 0.011), and by multivariate Cox analysis (P = 0.011). This association was independently validated in a separate cohort of 88 SCC patients (P = 0.008, 0.011, and 0.003 in Kaplan–Meier analysis, univariate Cox analysis, and multivariate Cox analysis, respectively). We then determined that the tumor suppressor DICER1 is a target of hsa-miR-31. Expression of hsa-miR-31 in a human lung cancer cell line repressed DICER1 activity but not PPP2R2A or LATS2.

Conclusions: Our results identified a new diagnostic microRNA classifier for SCC among Chinese patients and a new prognostic biomarker, hsa-miR-31. Clin Cancer Res; 17(21); 6802–11. ©2011 AACR.
The Reconstruction of Transcriptional Networks Reveals Critical Genes with Implications for Clinical Outcome of Multiple Myeloma
Authors: Agnelli Luca , Forcato Mattia , Ferrari Francesco , Tuana Giacomo , Todoerti Katia , Walker Brian A. , Morgan Gareth J. , Lombardi Luigia , Bicciato Silvio , Neri Antonino
Published: September 2011

Purpose: The combined use of microarray technologies and bioinformatics analysis has improved our understanding of biological complexity of multiple myeloma (MM). In contrast, the application of the same technology in the attempt to predict clinical outcome has been less successful with the identification of heterogeneous molecular signatures. Herein, we have reconstructed gene regulatory networks in a panel of 1,883 samples from MM patients derived from publicly available gene expression sets, to allow the identification of robust and reproducible signatures associated with poor prognosis across independent data sets.

Experimental Design: Gene regulatory networks were reconstructed by using Algorithm for the Reconstruction of Accurate Cellular Networks (ARACNe) and microarray data from seven MM data sets. Critical analysis of network components was applied to identify genes playing an essential role in transcriptional networks, which are conserved between data sets.

Results: Network critical analysis revealed that (i) CCND1 and CCND2 were the most critical genes; (ii) CCND2, AIF1, and BLNK had the largest number of connections shared among the data sets; (iii) robust gene signatures with prognostic power were derived from the most critical transcripts and from shared primary neighbors of the most connected nodes. Specifically, a critical-gene model, comprising FAM53B, KIF21B, WHSC1, and TMPO, and a neighbor-gene model, comprising BLNK shared neighbors CSGALNACT1 and SLC7A7, predicted survival in all data sets with follow-up information.

Conclusions: The reconstruction of gene regulatory networks in a large panel of MM tumors defined robust and reproducible signatures with prognostic importance, and may lead to identify novel molecular mechanisms central to MM biology. Clin Cancer Res; 17(23); 7402–12. ©2011 AACR.