bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Static and dynamic mechanics of the temporomandibular joint: plowing forces, joint load and tissue stress
Authors: Nickel J , Spilker R , Iwasaki L , Gonzalez Y , McCall WD , Ohrbach R , Beatty MW , Marx D
Published: July 2009

Structured Abstract

Authors –  Nickel J, Spilker R, Iwasaki L, Gonzalez Y, McCall WD, Ohrbach R, Beatty MW, Marx D

Objectives –  To determine the combined effects 1) of stress‐field aspect ratio and velocity and compressive strain and 2) joint load, on temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disc mechanics.

Setting and Sample Population –  Fifty‐two subjects (30 ♀; 22 ♂) participated in the TMJ load experiments.

Material and Methods –  In the absence of human tissue, pig TMJ discs were used to determine the effects of variables 1) on surface plowing forces, and to build a biphasic finite element model (bFEM) to test the effect of human joint loads and 2) on tissue stresses. In the laboratory, discs received a 7.6 N static load via an acrylic indenter before cyclic movement. Data were recorded and analysed using anova. To determine human joint loads, Research Diagnostic Criteria calibrated investigators classified subjects based on signs of disc displacement (DD) and pain (+DD/+pain, n = 18; +DD/−pain, n = 17; −DD/−pain, n = 17). Three‐dimensional geometries were produced for each subject and used in a computer model to calculate joint loads.

Results –  The combined effects of compressive strain, and aspect ratio and velocity of stress‐field translation correlated with plowing forces (R2 = 0.85). +DD/−pain subjects produced 60% higher joint loads (anova, p < 0.05), which increased bFEM‐calculated compressive strain and peak total normal stress.

Conclusions –  Static and dynamic variables of the stress‐field and subject‐dependent joint load significantly affect disc mechanics.
Temporary orthodontic anchorage devices for improving occlusion
Authors: Rossouw PE , Buschang PH
Published: July 2009

Structured Abstract

Authors –  Rossouw PE, Buschang PH

The objective of the study was to provide insight into clinical and laboratory aspects of mini‐screw implant (MI) research conducted in the Department of Orthodontics at Baylor College of Dentistry. Excerpts were selected from clinical and laboratory MI research utilizing one type of implant and one consistent placement protocol to illustrate the clinical usage of MI as skeletal anchorage during Class II bimaxillary correction. In addition, a translational animal model was utilized to illustrate possible side‐effects of MI placement. Our studies have shown that successful and consistent clinical results are possible with MI use. Although iatrogenic trauma may occur during the placement of MI, a translational research model has provided data used to develop a placement protocol in order to avoid this dilemma. Absolute skeletal anchorage is a reality with MI use and can be used for successful orthodontic outcomes in the correction of Class II bimaxillary protrusion malocclusions to ideal Class I occlusions. Moreover, meticulous care has been shown to be essential with treatment planning and during placement of MI. Significant and extensive damage can occur with poor placement while healing is possible following minor trauma.
Mandibular necrosis in beagle dogs treated with bisphosphonates
Authors: Burr DB , Allen MR
Published: July 2009

Structured Abstract

Authors –  Burr DB, Allen MR

Objectives –  To test the effect of bisphosphonate (BP) treatment for up to 3 years on bone necrosis and osteocyte death in the mandible using a canine model.

Materials and Methods –  Dogs were treated with clinical doses of oral alendronate (ALN, 0.2 or 1.0 mg/kg/day) for 1 or 3 years. In a separate study, dogs were treated with i.v. zoledronate (ZOL) at 0.06 mg/kg/day for 6 months. En bloc staining was used to identify necrotic areas in the mandible; viable osteocytes were identified using lactate dehydrogenase.

Results –  None of the treatments was associated with exposed bone, but 17–25% of dogs treated for 1 year and 25–33% of dogs treated for 3 years with ALN showed pockets of dead bone. Necrotic areas had no viable osteocytes and were void of patent canaliculi. No control animals demonstrated necrotic bone. ZOL treatment for 6 months was associated with osteocyte death greater than that seen in animals treated with ALN or saline. It is not clear whether osteocyte death occurs because of direct toxic effects of BPs, or because suppressed remodelling fails to renew areas that naturally undergo cell death. Necrotic areas are also associated with bone other than the mandible, e.g. the rib, which normally undergo high rates of remodelling.

Conclusions –  Reduced remodelling rate using BPs may contribute to the pathogenesis of bone matrix necrosis. The development of an animal model that mimics important aspects of BP‐related osteonecrosis of the jaw is important to understanding the pathogenesis of osteonecrosis.
Detection of root resorption using dentin and bone markers
Authors: George A , Evans CA
Published: July 2009

Structured Abstract

Authors –  George A, Evans CA

Objectives –  To test the hypothesis that during root resorption, organic matrix proteins and cytokines from the surrounding bone and dentin are released into the gingival crevice.

Material and Methods –  Subjects with mild (<2 mm loss) and severe root resorption (>2 mm) were identified. Control group subjects with no loss of root structure or undergoing orthodontic treatment were also identified. Gingival crevicular fluid (GCF) was collected non‐invasively from the mesial and distal sides of each of the four upper incisors by using filter paper strips. The eluted GCF was used for analysis using western blot and enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) techniques. Antibodies used were against osteopontin (OPN), (osteoprotegerin) OPG, and receptor activator of nuclear factor kappa B ligand (RANKL).

Results –  Western blot analysis showed differential expression of OPN, OPG, and RANKL in the control and root resorbed subjects. However, processed forms of these proteins were only observed in the root resorbed subjects. Results from ELISA with OPG antibodies revealed a difference in OPG concentration between the control and root resorption groups. ELISA results with RANKL antibodies did show a statistically significant difference between the control group and the two study groups. The ratio RANKL/OPG was statistically higher in subjects with severe root resorption than in the control subjects.

Conclusions –  Preliminary results confirm the presence of matrix proteins and cytokines in the GCF of root resorbed subjects. Further, OPG was locally present in excess amounts over RANKL and an increased RANKL/OPG in the study groups could be correlated with an increased bone resorption activity during orthodontic tooth movement.
Vegetation restoration of secondary bare saline‐alkali patches in the Songnen plain, China
Authors: Jiang S.‐C. , He N.‐P. , Wu L. , Zhou D.‐W.
Published: July 2009

Questions: What factors limit vegetation restoration of secondary bare saline‐alkaline patches (BSAP) in the Songnen grassland of northeast China? Is there any adaptive approach to promote revegetation in the shortest time possible and at a low cost?

Location: Northeast China.

Methods: Considering the climate, soil saline‐alkalization and available seed sources, a new approach was adopted to restore vegetation in BSAP, which were formed by the degradation of typical Leymus chinensis grasslands owing to long‐term overgrazing. The experimental treatments included no treatment (CK), fencing (F), fencing+inserting cornstalks (FS), fencing+inserting cornstalks+sowing L. chinensis (FSL) and fencing+inserting cornstalks+sowing Puccinellia chinampoensis (FSP). The assumptions behind inserting cornstalks were not only that they would create safe sites for initial revegetation but also that they would enhance seed input by trapping and containing the seeds from seed movement on the BSAP surface.

Results: Seed bank shortage was an important factor limiting initial revegetation in BSAP; seed movement on the BSAP surface could provide the necessary seed source if it were contained by effective measures. Vegetation at the sites FS, FSL and FSP was restored well in terms of the above‐ground biomass and coverage. Inserted cornstalks acted as safe sites that enhanced the plant survival rate in BSAP; they also enhanced the ability to contain seed movement, thus providing a seed source for initial revegetation. Along with initial revegetation, tussocks around cornstalks can provide better safe sites, which in turn can accelerate subsequent vegetation restoration in BSAP.

Conclusions: The approach entails the strategic use of diverse seed sources and the construction of safe sites with agricultural byproducts (cornstalks); therefore, it is a low‐cost method and can be used on a widespread scale. The results provide vigorous support in favor of vegetation restoration in BSAP and severely degraded grasslands in the region. In practice, this approach can be used in degraded ecosystems with compacted soil surfaces (including arid and salt‐affected soils) to promote revegetation in various regions.
Aesthetic demand of French seniors: a large‐scale study
Authors: Wulfman Claudine , Tezenas du Montcel Sophie , Jonas Pierre , Fattouh Jalal , Rignon‐Bret Christophe
Published: July 2009

doi:10.1111/j.1741‐2358.2009.00331.x
 
Aesthetic demand of French seniors: a large‐scale study

Objectives:  The needs of seniors for oral health and aesthetics are growing, as are their demands for aesthetics. This large‐scale study aims to identify the demand for aesthetics for a population aged over 55, and the influence of age and gender.

Methods:  A 15‐item questionnaire was placed on the web in partnership with a major magazine dedicated to seniors. It reflected practitioners’ questions with regard to senior patient expectations: aesthetic demand assessment, most commonly expressed complaints, the importance given to tooth colour, knowledge of available therapeutic treatments and motivation levels for treatment.

Results:  The survey generated 3868 responses, 61% from women; 77% of respondents declared being satisfied to very satisfied with their smile. Their highest priority to improve their smile was tooth alignment, followed by their shape, length and shade. Although 60% of respondents were satisfied with their current shading, 53% would prefer to have them whitened. Aesthetic treatments were well‐known to seniors. Over four‐fifths of them had heard of dental implants and ceramic crowns. Two‐thirds of those who wished to improve their smile were considering dental treatment.

Conclusion:  The high number of collected questionnaires confirms the strong interest shown by seniors for dental aesthetics, particularly from women. Baby‐boomers seem more attentive to the appearance of their smile than their elders. However, the importance of appearance decreases with age, as it becomes less of a priority, with attention more focused on general health.
Bayesian potentials and information structures: Team decision problems revisited
Authors: Ui Takashi
Published: July 2009

This paper proposes the use of Bayesian potential games as models of informationally decentralized organizations. Applying techniques in team decision problems by Radner (1962), this paper characterizes Bayesian Nash equilibria in terms of Bayesian potentials and demonstrates using examples that Bayesian potentials are useful tools for studying the efficient use of information in organizations.
Analyses of Sexual Reproductive Success in Transgenic and/or Mutant Plants
Authors: Calixto Cristiane P. G. , Goldman Gustavo H. , Goldman Maria Helena S.
Published: July 2009

The pistil, the female reproductive organ of plants, is a key player in the success of sexual plant reproduction. Ultimately, the production of fruits and seeds depends on the proper pistil development and function. Therefore, the identification and characterization of pistil expressed genes is essential for a better understanding and manipulation of the plant reproduction process. For studying the function of pistil expressed genes, transgenic and/or mutant plants for the genes of interest are used. The present article provides a review of methods already exploited to analyze sexual reproductive success. We intend to supply useful information and to guide future experiments in the study of genes affecting pistil development and function.
Hepatoma‐derived growth factor is induced in liver regeneration
Authors: Enomoto Hirayuki , Nakamura Hideji , Liu Weidong , Yoshida Kenya , Okuda Yorihide , Imanishi Hiroyasu , Saito Masaki , Shimomura Soji , Hada Toshikazu , Nishiguchi Shuhei
Published: July 2009

Aim:  Hepatoma‐derived growth factor (HDGF) is a heparin‐binding protein, which has been suggested to be involved in the development of kidneys, the cardiovascular system and the liver. We have shown that HDGF is highly expressed in parenchymal hepatocytes in the developing liver and promotes fetal hepatocyte proliferation. In the present study, we asked whether HDGF expression was related to liver regeneration.

Methods:  We examined the mRNA and protein expressions of HDGF in two liver regeneration models. In addition, cellular distribution of HDGF in the regenerating liver was investigated by immunohistochemistry.

Results:  In the carbon tetrachloride (CCl4)‐treated liver, HDGF expression was induced and the peak was detected at 24 h after the CCl4 injection. HDGF expression was also enhanced in the hepatectomy model and the peak was detected at 12 h after surgery. The increased expression of HDGF protein was also confirmed by western blotting. Expression of the HDGF gene in the regenerating liver was dominantly detected in parenchymal hepatocytes.

Conclusion:  These findings showed that HDGF expression was induced in parenchymal hepatocytes before the DNA synthesis in the regenerating liver, suggesting the possible involvement of HDGF in liver regeneration as an autocrine factor.
Autoantibody IgG subclasses to recombinant antigens and the role of bacterial stimuli in primary biliary cirrhosis
Authors: Kawai Toshihiro , Hosoya Naomi , Moritoki Yuki , Kajiyama Yusuke , Watanabe Masashi , Takai Atsuko , Selmi Carlo , Gershwin M. Eric , Miyakawa Hiroshi , Kikuchi Kentaro
Published: July 2009

Aim:  Serum antimitochondrial antibody (AMA) of the IgG2 and IgG3 subclasses has been reported to be predominant in patients with primary biliary cirrhosis from developed countries. No data are available as to the significance of AMA subtypes in Japanese primary biliary cirrhosis (PBC) patients who have previously manifested unique serological features, nor it is known whether AMA subclasses are influenced by bacterial stimuli, as suggested by the molecular theory of PBC. We undertook a three‐step study to address these questions.

Methods:  First, Japanese PBC sera were tested using the established triple recombinant antigen (pML‐MIT3) to find AMA subclass distribution. Second, we used the three recombinant mitochondrial antigens in PBC sera of Japanese and USA patients to explore the ethnic difference. Third, we used CpG oligodeoxynucleotides and a B cell mitogen to challenge ex vivo peripheral leukocytes from indirect immunofluorescence (IIF)‐AMA‐positive patients with Japanese PBC.

Results:  We detected most frequently IgG2‐AMA followed by IgG3‐AMA, with the latter being more common in IIF‐AMA‐positive cases, and demonstrated that the IgG3 reactivity against the dominant antigen was significantly higher in PBC sera from the USA. We determined that the bacterial stimulus was superior to the mitogen at inducing a predominant production of IgG2‐AMA and CD20+ B cell activation.

Conclusion:  Our data cumulatively supported the hypothesis that IgG2 AMA subtypes are predominant in PBC and suggest that this might be favored by an innate immune reaction against bacterial particles, such as CpG DNA.
Vitamin K2 downregulates the expression of fibroblast growth factor receptor 3 in human hepatocellular carcinoma cells
Authors: Cao Ke , Liu Weidong , Nakamura Hideji , Enomoto Hirayuki , Yamamoto Teruhisa , Saito Masaki , Imanishi Hiroyasu , Shimomura Soji , Cao Peiguo , Nishiguchi Shuhei
Published: July 2009

Aim:  Vitamin K2 exerts an antitumor activity on human hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), however, its inhibitory mechanism has not yet been clarified. This study was designed to identify the attractive target molecule of vitamin K2 and shed some light on its effects on fibroblast growth factor receptor (FGFR)3 in HCC cells.

Methods:  The changes in the gene expression of HuH‐7 after vitamin K2 treatment were evaluated by a DNA chip analysis. The mRNA and protein levels of FGFR were evaluated by semiquantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT–PCR), real‐time PCR and western blot analysis. The promoter activity of the FGFR3 gene was measured by a dual‐luciferase assay.

Results:  The DNA chip analysis revealed different inhibitory rates of gene expression of FGFR3 (60.6%) and FGFR1 (19.4%) after vitamin K2 treatment. Vitamin K2 suppresses the proliferation of HuH‐7 in a dose‐dependent manner and its inhibitory rate reached approximately 61.8% at the dose of 30 µM. FGFR3 mRNA was significantly reduced based on semiquantitative RT‐PCR and decreased 61.5% by a real‐time PCR method after vitamin K2 treatment, but FGFR1 mRNA was not. The level of FGFR3 protein was also reduced by vitamin K2 treatment. The luciferase assay demonstrated that vitamin K2 significantly suppressed the promoter activity of FGFR3. Furthermore, the FGFR3–ERK1/2 signaling pathway was suppressed by vitamin K2 treatment.

Conclusion:  These findings suggest that vitamin K2 may suppress the proliferation of HCC cells through the downregulation of the FGFR3 expression. The transcriptional suppression of FGFR3 may be a novel mechanism of the vitamin K2 action for HCC cells.
Influence of inducible nitric oxide synthase polymorphisms in Japanese patients with non‐alcoholic fatty liver disease
Authors: Yoneda Masato , Hotta Kikuko , Nozaki Yuichi , Endo Hiroki , Tomeno Wataru , Watanabe Seitaro , Hosono Kunihiro , Mawatari Hironori , Iida Hiroshi , Fujita Koji , Takahashi Hirokazu , Kirikoshi Hiroyuki , Kobayashi Noritoshi , Inamori Masahiko , Kubota Kensuke , Shimamura Takeshi , Saito Satoru , Maeyama Shiro , Wada Koichiro , Nakajima Atsushi
Published: July 2009

Aim: Genetic factors as well as environmental factors play an important role in the development of non‐alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). Recently, inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) was significantly higher in the severest form of non‐alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH), and nitric oxide (NO) has been determined to play an important role in the process of fibrosis in NASH. In this study, we investigated iNOS gene polymorphisms for associations with NAFLD.

Methods: A total of 115 NAFLD patients, consisting of 65 patients with NASH and 50 patients with simple steatosis, in whom a positive diagnosis had been made by liver biopsy, and 435 healthy control subjects, were recruited into this study.

Results: We investigated 10 single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNP) of the iNOS gene, one of which, rs1060822, had the lowestP‐value in the allele frequency model (P = 0.00078) with an odds ratio (95% confidence interval) of 0.49 (0.32–0.75). Four SNP, rs2297510, rs2297511, rs2797512 and rs1060822, were significantly associated with NAFLD, even when the most conservative Bonferroni's correction was applied. Linkage disequilibrium analysis revealed that SNP rs1060822 and three other SNP, rs2297510, rs2297511 and rs2797512, were in the same block. We also investigated associations between rs1060822 genotypes and the fibrosis index, and the results of the analysis revealed an additive increase in the fibrosis index and intrahepatic iNOS mRNA expression in the patients with the T allele of rs1060822.

Conclusion: This is the first study to identify genetic variations in iNOS that may influence the risk of NAFLD and liver fibrosis in NAFLD.
Matrix metalloproteinase inhibitor, CTS‐1027, attenuates liver injury and fibrosis in the bile duct‐ligated mouse
Authors: Kahraman Alisan , Bronk Steven F. , Cazanave Sophie , Werneburg Nathan W. , Mott Justin L. , Contreras Patricia C. , Gores Gregory J.
Published: July 2009

Aim:  Excessive matrix metalloproteinase (MMP) activity has been implicated in the pathogenesis of acute and chronic liver injury. CTS‐1027 is an MMP inhibitor, which has previously been studied in humans as an anti‐arthritic agent. Thus, our aim was to assess if CTS‐1027 is hepato‐protective and anti‐fibrogenic during cholestatic liver injury.

Methods:  C57/BL6 mice were subjected to bile duct ligation (BDL) for 14 days. Either CTS‐1027 or vehicle was administered by gavage.

Results:  BDL mice treated with CTS‐1027 demonstrated a threefold reduction in hepatocyte apoptosis as assessed by the TUNEL assay or immunohistochemistry for caspase 3/7‐positive cells as compared to vehicle‐treated BDL animals (P < 0.01). A 70% reduction in bile infarcts, a histological indicator of liver injury, was also observed in CTS‐1027‐treated BDL animals. These differences could not be ascribed to differences in cholestasis as serum total bilirubin concentrations were nearly identical in the BDL groups of animals. Markers for stellate cell activation (α‐smooth muscle actin) and hepatic fibrogenesis (collagen 1) were reduced in CTS‐1027 versus vehicle‐treated BDL animals (P < 0.05). Overall animal survival following 14 days of BDL was also improved in the group receiving the active drug (P < 0.05).

Conclusion:  The BDL mouse, liver injury and hepatic fibrosis are attenuated by treatment with the MMP inhibitor CTS‐1027. This drug warrants further evaluation as an anti‐fibrogenic drug in hepatic injury.
Translational research to identify clinical applications of hepatocyte growth factor
Authors: Ido Akio , Tsubouchi Hirohito
Published: July 2009

Hepatocyte growth factor (HGF), originally purified from the plasma of patients with fulminant hepatic failure, has been shown to carry out various physiological functions. HGF not only stimulates liver regeneration, but also acts as an antiapoptotic factor in in vivo experimental models. Therefore, HGF is a promising therapeutic agent for the treatment of fatal liver diseases, including fulminant hepatic failure. After performing a number of preclinical tests, our group began an investigator‐initiated registered phase I/II clinical trial of patients with fulminant hepatic failure to examine the safety and clinical efficacy of recombinant human HGF. In this article, we will discuss the basic research results as well as the translational research that underpins current attempts to use HGF in various clinical settings.
Superposition Predictions of the Reduction of Hot Streaks by Coolant From a Film-Cooled Guide Vane
Authors: Jenkins Sean C. , Bogard David G.
Published: July 2009

The turbine section of a gas turbine engine is subjected to hot gases flowing from the combustor that typically have high temperature regions known as “hot streaks.” These hot streaks pass through the nozzle guide vanes, either impacting the vanes or passing through the passages between vanes. Generally the vanes are highly film cooled, and the coolant from the vanes interacts with the hot streak resulting in a reduction of the hot streak temperature. In this study, predictions of the reduction of hot streaks were made using superposition of measured temperature distributions due to coolant injection and measured temperature distributions of hot streaks. These predictions were compared to the measured hot streak reduction to determine the accuracy of the superposition technique. Results showed that the superposition predictions generally underpredicted the reduction of the peak hot streak temperature, but were within at least 20% of the peak temperature value. The superposition technique was also found to be useful for determining the hot streak reduction for different hot streak locations, and different coolant and hot streak operating conditions.
Boundary Layer Separation Control With Fluidic Oscillators
Authors: Cerretelli Ciro , Kirtley Kevin
Published: July 2009

Fluidic oscillating valves have been used in order to apply unsteady boundary layer injection to “repair” the separated flow of a model diffuser, where the hump pressure gradient represents that of the suction surface of a highly loaded stator vane. The fluidic actuators employed in this study consist of a fluidic oscillator that has no moving parts or temperature limitations and is therefore more attractive for implementation on production turbomachinery. The fluidic oscillators developed in this study generate an unsteady velocity with amplitudes up to 60% rms of the average operating at nondimensional blowing frequencies (F+) in the range of 0.6<F+<6. These actuators are able to fully reattach the flow and achieve maximum pressure recovery with a 60% reduction of injection momentum required and a 30% reduction in blowing power compared with optimal steady blowing. Particle image velocimetry velocity and vorticity measurements have been performed, which show no large-scale unsteadiness in the controlled boundary layer flow.
Experimental Study of Heat Transfer Augmentation Near the Entrance to a Film Cooling Hole in a Turbine Blade Cooling Passage
Authors: Scheepers Gerard , Morris R. M.
Published: July 2009

Film cooling is extensively used by modern gas turbine blade designers as a means of limiting the blade temperature when exposed to extreme combustor outlet temperatures. The following paper describes an experimental study of heat transfer near the entrance to a film cooling hole in a turbine blade cooling passage. Steady state heat transfer results were acquired by using a transient measurement technique in a 40 times actual rectangular channel, representative of an internal cooling channel of a turbine blade. Platinum thin film gauges were used to measure the inner surface heat transfer augmentation as a result of thermal boundary layer renewal and impingement near the entrance of a film cooling hole. Measurements were taken at various suction ratios, extraction angles, and wall temperature ratios with a main duct Reynolds number of 25,000. A numerical technique based on the resolution of the unsteady conduction equation, using a Crank–Nicholson scheme, is used to obtain the surface heat flux from the measured surface temperature history. Computational fluid dynamics predictions were also made to provide better understanding of the near-hole flow. The results show extensive heat transfer enhancement as a function of extraction angle and suction ratio in the near-hole region and demonstrate good agreement with a corresponding study. Furthermore it was shown that the effect of a wall-to-coolant ratio is of a second order and can therefore be considered negligible compared with the primary variables such as the suction ratio and extraction angle.o
The Effects of Aerodynamic Asymmetric Perturbations on Forced Response of Bladed Disks
Authors: Miyakozawa Tomokazu , Kielb Robert E. , Hall Kenneth C.
Published: July 2009

Most of the existing mistuning research assumes that the aerodynamic forces on each of the blades are identical except for an interblade phase angle shift. In reality, blades also undergo asymmetric steady and unsteady aerodynamic forces due to manufacturing variations, blending, mis-staggered, or in-service wear or damage, which cause aerodynamically asymmetric systems. This paper presents the results of sensitivity studies on forced response due to aerodynamic asymmetry perturbations. The focus is only on the asymmetries due to blade motions. Hence, no asymmetric forcing functions are considered. Aerodynamic coupling due to blade motions in the equation of motion is represented using the single family of modes approach. The unsteady aerodynamic forces are computed using computational fluid dynamics (CFD) methods assuming aerodynamic symmetry. Then, the aerodynamic asymmetry is applied by perturbing the influence coefficient matrix in the physical coordinates such that the matrix is no longer circulant. Therefore, the resulting aerodynamic modal forces in the traveling wave coordinates become a full matrix. These aerodynamic perturbations influence both stiffness and damping while traditional frequency mistuning analysis only perturbs the stiffness. It was found that maximum blade amplitudes are significantly influenced by the perturbation of the imaginary part (damping) of unsteady aerodynamic modal forces. This is contrary to blade frequency mistuning where the stiffness perturbation dominates.
Influence of Wake Structure on Unsteady Flow in a Low Pressure Turbine Blade Passage
Authors: Sarkar S.
Published: July 2009

The effect of wake structures on the evolution of the boundary layer over the suction side of a high-lift low-pressure turbine blade is studied using large-eddy simulation (LES) for a Reynolds number Re=7.8×104 (based on the axial chord and the inlet velocity). The wake data of different characteristics (defined by the wake deficit and the small-scale motion) are extracted from a precursor LES of flow past a cylinder. This replaces a moving bar that generates wakes in front of a cascade. LES results illustrate that apart from the wake kinematics, the large pressure oscillations and rollup of the separated shear layer along the rear half of the suction surface depend on the length scale of the convective wake. The transition of this rolled-up shear layer is influenced by the wake turbulence and the small-scale motion.
Heat Transfer in Leading Edge, Triangular Shaped Cooling Channels With Angled Ribs Under High Rotation Numbers
Authors: Liu Yao-Hsien , Huh Michael , Rhee Dong-Ho , Han Je-Chin , Moon Hee-Koo
Published: July 2009

The gas turbine blade/vane internal cooling is achieved by circulating compressed air through the cooling channels inside the turbine blade. Cooling channel geometries vary to fit the blade profile. This paper experimentally investigated the rotational effects on heat transfer in an equilateral triangular channel (Dh=1.83 cm). The triangular shaped channel is applicable to the leading edge of the gas turbine blade. Angled 45 deg ribs are placed on the leading and trailing surfaces of the test section to enhance heat transfer. The rib pitch-to-rib height ratio (P/e) is 8 and the rib height-to-channel hydraulic diameter ratio (e/Dh) is 0.087. Effect of the angled ribs under high rotation numbers and buoyancy parameters is also presented. Results show that due to the radially outward flow, heat transfer is enhanced with rotation on the trailing surface. By varying the Reynolds numbers (10,000–40,000) and the rotational speeds (0–400 rpm), the rotation number and buoyancy parameter reached in this study are 0–0.58 and 0–1.9, respectively. The higher rotation number and buoyancy parameter correlate very well and can be used to predict the rotational heat transfer in the equilateral triangular channel.
The Effects of Manufacturing Tolerances on Gas Turbine Cooling
Authors: Bunker Ronald S.
Published: July 2009

This study presents a summary of the effects of manufacturing methods and processing steps upon the resulting thermal boundary conditions for typical highly cooled turbine airfoils. Specific emphasis is placed on the conservatism that must be “designed into” the component for survival due to realistic manufacturing tolerances. Using the features of a typical blade design, the main geometric factors that can influence the blade heat transfer capability through manufacturing variability are enumerated. The tolerances on those geometric factors are provided, and the approximate quantitative impact on thermal boundary conditions is summarized. A simple example of airfoil cooling for a representative wall section is used to tabulate the variations with the resulting changes in the most affected thermal boundary conditions. Each of the main geometric factors is then evaluated in terms of its possible effect on maximum metal temperature. Paretos of the effects of manufacturing factors exhibit which factors are key and where tighter tolerances may help. Monte Carlo analysis results show the probability distributions associated with overall cooling changes tied to the tolerances.
A brief primer on tamped fission-bomb cores
Authors: Reed B. Cameron
Published: July 2009

A previously published discussion of the physics of fission-bomb cores is extended to incorporate the effects of a surrounding tamper/reflector. I examine the effect of a tamper of finite thickness on the calculation of critical mass in contrast to the infinite-thickness approximation usually invoked. An infinite-thickness tamper reduces the critical mass by a factor of eight; a more realistic estimate for a tamper of nonzero mass is a factor of about two. An approximate model of the Hiroshima Little Boy bomb results in a predicted explosive yield of about 13kilotons, in good agreement with the actual value of approximately 12kilotons, although this agreement might be fortuitous. A spreadsheet for estimating the critical masses of tamped and untamped cores and expected bomb yields and efficiencies is available.
Understanding the focusing of charged particle beams in a solenoid magnetic field
Authors: Kumar Vinit
Published: July 2009

The focusing of a charged particle beam in a solenoid is typically explained by invoking the concept of a Larmour frame and using Busch’s theorem. Often, there is some confusion about how a uniform magnetic field of a long solenoid focuses the electron beam because it is generally understood that a uniform magnetic field can only guide charged particles. We perform a simple analysis of the dynamics of a charged particle beam in a solenoid and emphasize an intuitive understanding of some of the interesting features.
Pathogenesis, Diagnosis, and Management of Primary Antibody Deficiencies and Infections
Authors: Fried Ari J. , Bonilla Francisco A.
Published: July 2009

Primary antibody deficiencies are the most common primary immunodeficiency diseases. They are a heterogeneous group of disorders with various degrees of dysfunctional antibody production resulting from a disruption of B-cell differentiation at different stages. While there has been tremendous recent progress in the understanding of some of these disorders, the etiology remains unknown for the majority of patients. As there is a large spectrum of underlying defects, the age at presentation varies widely, and the clinical manifestations range from an almost complete absence of B cells and serum immunoglobulins to selectively impaired antibody responses to specific antigens with normal total serum immunoglobulin concentrations. However, all of these disorders share an increased susceptibility to infections, affecting predominantly the respiratory tract. A delay of appropriate treatment for some diseases can result in serious complications related to infections, while timely diagnosis and adequate therapy can significantly decrease morbidity and increase life expectancy and quality of life.
Pathogenesis ofAspergillus fumigatusin Invasive Aspergillosis
Authors: Dagenais Taylor R. T. , Keller Nancy P.
Published: July 2009

Aspergillusspecies are globally ubiquitous saprophytes found in a variety of ecological niches. Almost 200 species of aspergilli have been identified, less than 20 of which are known to cause human disease. Among them,Aspergillus fumigatusis the most prevalent and is largely responsible for the increased incidence of invasive aspergillosis (IA) in the immunocompromised patient population. IA is a devastating illness, with mortality rates in some patient groups reaching as high as 90%. Studies identifying and assessing the roles of specific factors ofA. fumigatusthat contribute to the pathogenesis of IA have traditionally focused on single-gene deletion and mutant characterization. In combination with recent large-scale approaches analyzing global fungal responses to distinct environmental or host conditions, these studies have identified many factors that contribute to the overall pathogenic potential ofA. fumigatus. Here, we provide an overview of the significant findings regardingA. fumigatuspathogenesis as it pertains to invasive disease.
DARK ENERGY AND DARK MATTER IN GENERAL RELATIVITY WITH LOCAL SCALE INVARIANCE
Authors: ALURI PAVAN KUMAR , JAIN PANKAJ , SINGH NAVEEN K.
Published: July 2009

We consider a generalization of Einstein's general theory of relativity such that it respects local scale invariance. This requires the introduction of a scalar and a vector field in the action. We show that the theory naturally displays both dark energy and dark matter. We solve the resulting equations of motion assuming an FRW metric. The solutions are found to be almost identical to those corresponding to the standard ΛCDM model.
GEOMETRY AND MATTER REDUCTION IN A 5D KALUZA–KLEIN FRAMEWORK
Authors: LACQUANITI V. , MONTANI G.
Published: July 2009

In this paper we consider the Kaluza–Klein field equations in the presence of a generic 5D matter tensor which is governed by a conservation equation due to 5D Bianchi identities. Following a previous work, we provide a consistent approach to matter where the problem of huge massive modes is removed, without relaxing the compactification hypotheses; therefore we perform the dimensional reduction either for metric fields and for matter, thus identifying a pure 4D tensor term, a 4D vector term and a scalar one. Hence we are able to write down a consistent set of equations for the complete dynamics of matter and fields; with respect to the pure Einstein–Maxwell system we now have two additional scalar fields: the usual dilaton one plus a scalar source term. Some significant scenarios involving these terms are discussed and perspectives for cosmological applications are suggested.
POLYAK–VIRO FORMULAS FOR COEFFICIENTS OF THE CONWAY POLYNOMIAL
Authors: CHMUTOV SERGEI , KHOURY MICHAEL CAP , ROSSI ALFRED
Published: July 2009

We describe the Polyak–Viro arrow diagram formulas for the coefficients of the Conway polynomial. As a consequence, we obtain the Conway polynomial as a state sum over some subsets of the crossings of the knot diagram. It turns out to be a simplification of a special case of Jaeger's state model for the HOMFLY polynomial.
FLEXOR DIGITORUM PROFUNDUS TENDON RUPTURE ASSOCIATED WITH DISTAL RADIUS FRACTURE MALUNION: A CASE REPORT
Authors: Ishii Takayuki , Ikeda Masayoshi , Kobayashi Yuka , Mochida Joji , Oka Yoshinori
Published: July 2009

We present a case of subcutaneous flexor tendon rupture of the index finger following malunion of a distal radius fracture. The cause of the tendon rupture was mechanical attrition due to a bony prominence at the palmar joint rim in the distal radius due to malunion. Corrective osteotomy and the Sauvé-Kapandji procedure were carried out for the wrist pain and forearm rotation disability and a tendon graft was carried out for the flexor tendon rupture. Recovery was satisfactory.
MYCOBACTERIUM CHELONAE HAND INFECTION: A REVIEW
Authors: Lee Ellen Y. , Ip Josephine Wing-Yuk , Fung Boris Kwok Keung , Ted U Edmond
Published: July 2009

Six cases of culture-proven Mycobacterium chelonae tenosynovitis were identified through retrospective chart review. Fifteen cases were identified using computerised Medline search. Clinical features, treatment and outcome were described. Infection control was achieved in our patients with an average of 3.2 surgeries each and antibiotic treatment for six months to one year. Eleven published cases were managed by combined surgery and systemic antibiotics, with an average of 1.73 surgeries per patient and seven weeks to 24 months of antibiotics. All our patients were disease free on final follow-up. Thirteen cases were resolved. Functional outcomes were reported for eight cases. Comparison of functional outcome was not possible because different parameters were used in different reports. Aggressive debridement, susceptibility-guided antibiotics, and supervised rehabilitation resulted in infection control and acceptable hand function for our patients. Standardised data collection on subsequent cases would facilitate outcome monitoring and formulation of a treatment guideline for this disease.
DE QUERVAIN DISEASE CAUSED BY ABDUCTOR POLLICIS LONGUS TENOSYNOVITIS: A REPORT OF THREE CASES
Authors: Maruyama Masahiro , Takahara Masatoshi , Kikuchi Noriaki , Ito Kazuo , Watanabe Tadayoshi , Ogino Toshihiko
Published: July 2009

De Quervain disease is caused by a stenosing tenosynovitis in the first dorsal compartment, and the main aetiology is extensor pollicis brevis (EPB) tenosynovitis. We encountered three cases in which EPB tenosynovitis was absent and abductor pollicis longus (APL) tenosynovitis was confirmed during operation. In the treatment of de Quervain disease, APL tenosynovitis should be paid as much attention as EPB tenosynovitis.
A MATHEMATICAL APPROACH TO JARZYNSKI'S IDENTITY IN NONEQUILIBRIUM STATISTICAL MECHANICS
Authors: SHAMAROVA EVELINA
Published: July 2009

We develop a mathematical approach to the nonequilibrium work theorem which is traditionally referred to in statistical mechanics as Jarzynski's identity. We suggest a mathematically rigorous formulation and proof of the identity.
THE STRENGTH OF JULLIEN'S INDECOMPOSABILITY THEOREM
Authors: NEEMAN ITAY
Published: July 2009

Jullien's indecomposability theorem states that if a scattered countable linear order is indecomposable, then it is either indecomposable to the left, or indecomposable to the right. The theorem was shown by Montalbán to be a theorem of hyperarithmetic analysis. We identify the strength of the theorem relative to standard reverse mathematics markers. We show that it lies strictly between weak [Formula: see text] choice and [Formula: see text] comprehension.
EMERGENT NETWORK STRUCTURE, EVOLVABLE ROBUSTNESS, AND NONLINEAR EFFECTS OF POINT MUTATIONS IN AN ARTIFICIAL GENOME MODEL
Authors: ROHLF THIMO , WINKLER CHRISTOPHER R.
Published: July 2009

Genetic regulation is a key component in development, but a clear understanding of the structure and dynamics of genetic networks is not yet at hand. In this paper we investigate these properties within an artificial genome model originally introduced by Reil [Proc. 5th European Conf. Artificial Life (Springer, 1999), pp. 457–466]. We analyze statistical properties of randomly generated genomes both on the sequence and network level, and show that this model correctly predicts the frequency of genes in genomes as found in experimental data. Using an evolutionary algorithm based on stabilizing selection for a phenotype, we show that dynamical robustness against single base mutations, as against random changes in initial states of regulatory dynamics that mimic stochastic fluctuations in environmental conditions, can emerge in parallel. Point mutations at the sequence level can have strongly nonlinear effects on network wiring, including structurally neutral mutations and simultaneous rewiring of multiple connections, which occasionally lead to strong reorganization of the attractor landscape and metastability of evolutionary dynamics. Similar to real genomes, evolved artificial genomes exhibit both highly conserved regions, as well as regions that are characterized by a high rate of accepted base substitutions.
LOOKING FOR EVIDENCE OF DIFFERENTIATION AND COOPERATION: NATURAL MEASURES FOR THE STUDY OF EVOLUTION OF MULTICELLULARITY
Authors: BUCK MORITZ , NEHANIV CHRYSTOPHER L.
Published: July 2009

The understanding of the evolutionary transitions is a major area of research in artificial life and in biology. We follow an artificial life approach to investigate these phenomena, using a system inspired by Anabaena cyanobacteria (which exhibit rudimentary multicellular differentiation and cooperation) in order to look for evidence of emerging differentiation and multicellular cooperation in colonies of individual cells.

We first evolve single free-living cells with the help of a Genetic Algorithm (GA). These cells are controlled with genetic regulatory networks. The single cells are evolved to each perform both of two tasks: an abstraction of house-keeping metabolism and a reproductive cycle. Once such a cell was evolved with the GA, the cell is used to seed the growth of a multicellular filamentous colony, whose constituent cells continue to reproduce and evolve. Two types of colonies generated from the seed cell are studied: one with intercellular communication ability and one without.

We introduce and apply new measures for assessing the impact of multicellular interaction on individual reproduction and on life span.

The conclusion of these studies shows that the colony with the ability to communicate shows, with the help of our new measures, behaviors that hint at the emergence of early cooperation.
INFORMATION-DRIVEN ORGANIZATION OF VISUAL RECEPTIVE FIELDS
Authors: SALGE CHRISTOPH , POLANI DANIEL
Published: July 2009

By using information theory to reduce the state space of sensor arrays, such as receptive fields, for AI decision making we offer an adaptive algorithm without classical biases of hand coded approaches. This paper presents a way to build an acyclic directed graph to organize the sensor inputs of a visual receptive field. The Information Distance Metric is used to repeatedly select two sensors, which contain the most information about each other. Those are then encoded to a single variable, of equal alphabet size, with a deterministic mapping function that aims to create maximal entropy while maintaining a low information distance to the original sensors. The resulting tree determines which sensors are fused to reduce the input data while maintaining a maximum of information. The structure adapts to different environments of input images by encoding groups of preferred line structures or creating a higher resolution for areas with simulated movement. These effects are created without prior assumptions about the sensor statistics or the spatial configuration of the receptive field, and are cheap to compute since only pair-wise informational comparison of sensors is used.
COMPLEXITY OF THE SEARCH SPACE IN A MODEL OF ARTIFICIAL EVOLUTION OF GENE REGULATORY NETWORKS CONTROLLING 3D MULTICELLULAR MORPHOGENESIS
Authors: JOACHIMCZAK MICHAŁ , WRÓBEL BORYS
Published: July 2009

The question of what properties of biological systems allow for efficient evolutionary search in complex fitness landscapes (evolvability) is one of the central interests both for the research in the field of evolutionary biology and artificial life. Here, we attempt to address this issue by using a model of 3D multicellular development in which cell fate is determined by differential gene expression in each cell. In our model, cells can vary in size and can move freely in 3D space, affected by forces of adhesion and repulsion. The development relies on an indirect mapping between the genotype and the morphology (the phenotype). Cell differentiation is allowed by positional information provided by diffusible factors. The state of the gene regulatory network (GRN) coded by the genome determines the cell fate (such as division, death, growth). The genetic elements in our systems define points in N-dimensional space. The connectivity in the GRN is determined by the proximity of these points; one can imagine the evolutionary process as their movement in space. Changing the number of dimensions of this space allows to ask directly the questions about the effect of the complexity of the search space on the efficiency of the evolutionary search. Higher dimensionality results in a larger search space, but in our model this search space can still be explored thanks to the action of genetic operators that allow for duplications of genetic elements, a mutational mechanism that allows for regulatory innovations in the network.
Semigroup Actions on Intuitionistic Fuzzy Metric Spaces
Authors: Lan Yaoyao , Li Qingguo
Published: July 2009

This paper investigates the dynamical systems in the context of topological semigroup actions on intuitionistic fuzzy metric spaces. We give some concepts such
as topological transitivity, point transitivity, and densely point transitivity for such
dynamical systems. Particularly, we consider the implications of nonsensitivity and
its relation to dynamical properties such as transitivity and equicontinuity.