bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Vasodilating dipeptide Trp-His can prevent atherosclerosis in apo E-deficient mice
Authors: Matsui Toshiro , Sato Masao , Tanaka Mitsuru , Yamada Yasuna , Watanabe Shimpei , Fujimoto Yumiko , Imaizumi Katsumi , Matsumoto Kiyoshi
Published: September 2009

Most of the investigations for an alternative medicinal treatment on atherosclerosis have been focused on natural or dietary compounds including phytochemicals. So far, few studies regarding anti-atherosclerotic small peptides except for tetrapeptide of Lys-Arg-Glu-Ser have been reported. The present study was, thus, to investigate whether dipeptide Trp-His, which is one of vasodilating small peptides, could reduce atherosclerotic lesions in apo E-deficient mice fed a high-fat diet. The animal study involved a 9-week-successive administration of Trp-His at a dose of 0, 10 or 100 mg/kg per d. After 9-week administration,en faceanalyses provided the first direct evidence that the atherosclerotic lesion area was significantly reduced by 27 and 38 % for Trp-His dosed at 10 and 100 mg/kg per d, respectively, compared with the control group. Administration of Trp-His did not affect growth parameters such as body weight and feeding efficiency (P>0·1). Total serum cholesterol and HDL-cholesterol as well as lipid profiles in the liver did not differ between the tested groups. Taken together, the anti-atherosclerotic effect of dipeptide Trp-His should be addressed into physiological functions of bioactive peptides, in which the dipeptide may elicit the power by alternative mechanism(s), not by the regulation of lipid metabolism.
In vitro nematicidal activity of extracts of Canthium mannii (Rubiaceae), on different life-cycle stages of Heligmosomoides polygyrus (Nematoda, Heligmosomatidae)
Authors: Wabo Poné J. , Bilong Bilong C.F. , Mpoame M.
Published: September 2009

The increasing prevalence of anthelmintic-resistant strains of helminths, drug residues in animal products and high cost of conventional anthelmintics has created an interest in studying medicinal plants as an alternative source of anthelmintic. The potential nematicidal activities of four extracts from the bark of Canthium mannii (Rubiaceae) stem were investigated in vitro. Extracts were diluted in distilled water (DW) to obtain five different concentrations (1.5, 2.0, 2.5, 3.0 and 3.5 mg/ml) and put in contact with eggs and larvae of Heligmosomoides polygyrus. The different stages of the life cycle were also put in contact with the same concentration of mebendazole (MBZ, positive control). One millilitre of each extract at different concentrations and control were added to 1 ml solution containing 30–40 eggs or 10–15 larvae (L1, L2 and L3) and distributed in different Petri dishes. The eggs and larvae were incubated at 24°C and exposure times were: 48 h for un-embryonated eggs, 6 h for embryonated eggs; 2, 4, 6 and 24 h for L1 and L2 larvae, 24–48 h for infective larvae (L3), and 5 days for the larval development test (from L1 to L3). DW and 1% dimethyl sulphoxide (DMSO) were used as placebo and DMSO control, respectively. Significant effects were obtained with three of the four extracts, and differences were observed depending on the parasite stage. Cold water extract (CWE), hot water extract (HWE) and ethanol extract (ETE) inhibited embryonic development (40, 45 and 10%) and hatching of embryonated eggs (40, 85 and 80%), respectively, at 3.5 mg/ml. Only ETE killed L1 (97.18%) and L2 (92.68%) larvae of H. polygyrus after 24 h at 3.5 mg/ml and drastically reduced the production rate (6% at 3.0 and 3.5 mg/ml) of infective larvae (L3) after 5 days of incubation compared to other extracts (P < 0.05). However, the infective larvae of H. polygyrus were resistant to the effect of each of the tested products (extracts and mebendazole). These in vitro results suggested that extracts of C. mannii, used by traditional healers in Dschang, Western Region of Cameroon (Central Africa) to cure intestinal helminthiasis and abdominal pains of their patients, possess nematicidal properties. The active principles responsible for the activity could be secondary metabolites such as alkaloids and saponins present in the extracts. It is suggested that further experiments incorporating in vivo purification of extracts and toxicological investigations should be carried out.
Dirofilaria infections in working dogs in Slovakia
Authors: Miterpáková M. , Antolová D. , Hurníková Z. , Dubinský P. , Pavlačka A. , Németh J.
Published: September 2009

A monitoring programme aimed at the diagnosis of subcutaneous dirofilariasis and heartworm disease in working (police and military) dogs in Slovakia has been performed during the period of September 2007 to February 2008. In co-operation with the Ministry of the Interior and the Ministry of Defence, in total, 710 dogs (591 police dogs and 119 military dogs) were investigated for the presence of microfilariae in blood. All police and military dogs in active service held on the territory of Slovakia were included. Microfilariae were detected in 118 (20.0%) police dogs and 10 (8.4%) military dogs. The most infected individuals originated from southern parts of Slovakia (Trnava region 53.6% and Nitra region 39.6%); the prevalence was low in northern regions (Žilina 3.1% and Prešov 6.6%). In several districts of southern Slovakia, the prevalence of subcutaneous dirofilariasis in working dogs exceeded 40%. In all infected animals, the autochthonous origin of the disease was confirmed; however, due to the frequent movement of working dogs, it was not possible to identify the exact locality of infection. At present, a dog living in Nemšová village in Trenčín district (north-western part of the country) is regarded as the northernmost localized autochthonous case of subcutaneous dirofilariasis in Slovakia. In three dogs, co-infection of Dirofilaria repens and Dirofilaria immitis was detected. High prevalence rates in working dogs and the zoonotic characteristic of the disease represent an undoubtedly important veterinary and medical problem that requires the urgent introduction of prophylactic and control measures.
Norway and the ‘winning’ of Australian Antarctica
Authors: Barrett Noel D.
Published: September 2009

Enquiries by Norwegian whalers precipitated the British annexation of the Falkland Island Dependencies and the Ross Dependency. Seeking territory free of British control, Lars Christensen's Norwegian whalers claimed Bouvet Island, which the British believed was theirs. Realisation of the economic value of whaling led Leopold Amery, of the British colonial office to develop Britain's Antarctic domination policy. In pursuit of this policy, the 1926 Imperial Conference formulated a process to claim a sector of Antarctica for Australia. A.G. Price'sThe Winning of Australian Antarcticadescribes the role of the Mawson led BANZARE in this process. To gain title to Bouvet Island, the Norwegian Government, dependant on friendly relations with Britain, agreed not to claim territory listed by the Imperial Conference as of ‘special interest’ to Britain. Claims made by whalers who had mapped and named territory in the unlisted area between Kemp and Queen Mary Lands were rejected by the Norwegian prime minister. Following the 1933 Order in Council establishing the Australian Antarctic Territory, Norway raised concerns that the territory included Haakon VII Vidde (polar plateau) and the parts of Dronning (Queen) Maud Land that had been mapped and discovered by Norwegians. Price's contention that Australian Antarctica was ‘won’ is questionable.
Johan Dahl Land, south Greenland: the end of a 20th century glacier expansion
Authors: Weidick Anker
Published: September 2009

The Qajuuttap Sermia glacier system north of Johan Dahl Land, on the southern slope of the Greenland ice sheet (the inland ice), has shown continuous advancing behaviour from approximately 1940 until approximately 2000. This contrasts with neighbouring sectors of the inland ice to the west and southeast, where the ice sheet has shown a more ‘normal’ trend of recession and thinning of the margin since about 1850–1890, and that has continued throughout the last half of the 20th century. The Qajuuttap Sermia glacier system has also attracted interest for its hydropower potential, and detailed investigations were carried out in 1977–1983. This article summarises the fluctuations of the Qajuuttap Sermia glacier system, and documents the demonstrable advance of the individual glaciers of the system from the early 1940s until the early years of the present millennium. The cause of the advance seems likely to be related to variations in precipitation over the southernmost parts of the inland ice, with the highlands north of Johan Dahl Land directly influencing the passage of low pressure systems moving both northwards along the west coast and northeastwards along the east coast of Greenland.
Mercury in lichens and reindeer hair from Alaska: 2005–2007 pilot survey
Authors: Lokken James A. , Finstad Gregory L. , Dunlap Kriya L. , Duffy Lawrence K.
Published: September 2009

Reindeer and caribou are terrestrial herbivores, that feed on lichens and are used for commercial and subsistence food products. Caribou are a key component of the arctic food web and the bioaccumulation of toxic contaminants, such as mercury (Hg), needs to be monitored to establish a baseline as the arctic environment is impacted by both climate change and future industrial development. A changing climate in Alaska is influencing plant species composition, fire regime, melting and flooding events, and thus, impacting Hg bioavailability in the food chain. Industrial development in Asia is also projected to increase the atmospheric global pool of Hg from increased coal combustion. Reindeer, a domesticated representative of caribou, can be used as a terrestrial biomonitor for metal exposure. In this study total mercury concentrations were measured in lichens and in hair of grazing reindeer on defined ranges across Alaska to establish a baseline for future hypothesis development and testing regarding Hg deposition. The Hg mean level for Seward Peninsula lichens on the Davis Range was 37.4 ng g−1, on the Gray Range 47.1 ng g−1, on the Kakaruk Range 42.2 ng g−1, and 41.7 ng g−1on the Noyakuk Range. Lichen Hg levels on St. Lawrence Island was 46.6 ng g−1. Methyl mercury levels in lichens were found to be below detection levels. Reindeer grazing on these ranges had mean Hg hair levels of 14.6 ng g−1(Davis herd), 83.4 ng g−1(Gray herd), and 40.3 ng g−1(Noyakuk herd). Two reindeer on St. Lawrence Island had an average of Hg of 43.0 ng g−1. Sample sizes ranged from n = 2 to n = 11. Hg mean levels in lichen on Seward Peninsula were higher than Hg means of two ranges in northern Mongolia. The Hg levels observed in this study indicate that Hg levels in Alaska are low at this time and pose no risk to the health of reindeer or human subsistence harvesters. A significant relationship between Hg in lichens on the ranges and the Hg in reindeer on those ranges has not been established. There are insufficient data on Hg levels in many areas of the north and more information is needed on location specific and time trends in Hg concentrations. Lichens and reindeer hair provide a good, non-invasive method of monitoring metal exposure changes in Alaskan ecosystems.
Coherent structures and isolated spectrum for Perron–Frobenius cocycles
Authors: FROYLAND GARY , LLOYD SIMON , QUAS ANTHONY
Published: September 2009

We present an analysis of one-dimensional models of dynamical systems that possess ‘coherent structures’: global structures that disperse more slowly than local trajectory separation. We study cocycles generated by expanding interval maps and the rates of decay for functions of bounded variation under the action of the associated Perron–Frobenius cocycles. We prove that when the generators are piecewise affine and share a common Markov partition, the Lyapunov spectrum of the Perron–Frobenius cocycle has at most finitely many isolated points. Moreover, we develop a strengthened version of the Multiplicative Ergodic Theorem for non-invertible matrices and construct an invariant splitting into Oseledets subspaces. We detail examples of cocycles of expanding maps with isolated Lyapunov spectrum and calculate the Oseledets subspaces, which lead to an identification of the underlying coherent structures. Our constructions generalize the notions of almost-invariant and almost-cyclic sets to non-autonomous dynamical systems and provide a new ensemble-based formalism for coherent structures in one-dimensional non-autonomous dynamics.
Effective λ-models versus recursively enumerable λ-theories
Authors: BERLINE CHANTAL , MANZONETTO GIULIO , SALIBRA ANTONINO
Published: September 2009

A longstanding open problem is whether there exists a non-syntactical model of the untyped λ-calculus whose theory is exactly the least λ-theory λβ. In this paper we investigate the more general question of whether the equational/order theory of a model of the untyped λ-calculus can be recursively enumerable (r.e. for short). We introduce a notion of effective model of λ-calculus, which covers, in particular, all the models individually introduced in the literature. We prove that the order theory of an effective model is never r.e.; from this it follows that its equational theory cannot be λβ or λβη. We then show that no effective model living in the stable or strongly stable semantics has an r.e. equational theory. For Scott's semantics, we investigate the class of graph models and prove that no order theory of a graph model can be r.e., and that there exists an effective graph model whose equational/order theory is the minimum among the theories of graph models. Finally, we show that the class of graph models enjoys a kind of downwards Löwenheim–Skolem theorem.
The Therapeutic Relationship in CBT for Psychosis: Client, Therapist and Therapy Factors
Authors: Evans-Jones Catherine , Peters Emmanuelle , Barker Chris
Published: September 2009

Background: This study investigated which factors are associated with the therapeutic relationship in Cognitive-Behavioural Therapy for psychosis (CBTp). Method: Measures were taken between sessions two to nine in 24 therapist-client dyads. Clients and therapists completed the Working Alliance Inventory and measures of client (gender, age, ethnicity, positive and negative symptoms of psychosis, length of illness, admissions, social contacts, employment, cognitive insight, reaction to hypothetical contradiction), therapist (empathy, expertness, attractiveness, trustworthiness, number of years qualified and previous CBTp clients seen, confidence in CBTp), and therapy (number of sessions and CBTp interventions carried out, presentation of a formulation) factors. Results: On average, clients and therapists rated the therapeutic relationship as good, with clients giving higher ratings. None of the client variables was related significantly to the quality of the relationship. However, a number of therapist and therapy factors were linked to a better therapeutic relationship, namely clients' ratings of therapist empathy, expertness, attractiveness, and trustworthiness and, at trend level, a greater number of sessions and of CBTp interventions, and the presentation of a formulation. Conclusions: These results suggest that therapists are able to develop a good therapeutic relationship with clients with psychosis, regardless of the severity of the psychosis and the confidence and experience of the therapist, although non-significant findings need interpreting with caution due to the lack of a full range of therapeutic alliances. The findings also suggest that the basic tenets of CBTp, such as empathy and collaborative goals, may be important factors for the development of the therapeutic relationship.
Analytical three‐moment autoconversion parameterization based on generalized gamma distribution
Authors: Xie Xiaoning , Liu Xiaodong
Published: September 2009

Autoconversion of cloud droplets to embryonic raindrops is one of the most important microphysical processes in warm clouds. From first principles, a three‐moment theoretical expression is analytically derived for the autoconversion rates of the number concentration, mass content, and radar reflectivity based on the generalized gamma distribution function for cloud droplet size distributions. Furthermore, the influence of the liquid water content L, droplet concentration N, shape parameter μ, and tail parameter q on the autoconversion rate are investigated, respectively. It is found that the autoconversion rate increases significantly with decreasing value μ, no matter how high or low the liquid water content is, but the parameter q only plays an important role at low liquid water content. These results may have many potential applications, especially to studies of the indirect aerosol effect and the influence of μ and q on cloud and precipitation.
Combining Tropical Cyclone Data Sets Worldwide: International Best Track Archive for Climate Stewardship (IBTrACS) Workshop; Asheville, North Carolina, 5–7 May 2009
Authors: Levinson David H. , Diamond Howard J.
Published: September 2009

At the International Best Track Archive for Climate Stewardship (IBTrACS) workshop in North Carolina, experts from the World Meteorological Organization's (WMO) officially recognized tropical cyclone tracking and forecasting agencies met to discuss ways to accurately combine the disparate tropical cyclone (TC) best track data to better understand their global climatology. Representatives from each participating agency provided an overview of their agency's operating procedures and how those procedures have changed over time. Breakout sessions addressed many issues, including wind‐pressure relationships and their use, converting between wind speed averaging periods, and other differences between best track data sets.
An effective filtering for GRACE time‐variable gravity: Fan filter
Authors: Zhang Zi‐Zhan , Chao B. F. , Lu Yang , Hsu Hou‐Tse
Published: September 2009

Spatial low‐pass filtering is necessary for processing the GRACE time‐variable gravity (TVG) data which are otherwise plagued with short‐wavelength noises. Here we devise a new non‐isotropic filter, called the fan filter: In terms of the spherical harmonic spectrum, the fan filter is simply a 2‐D double filter consisting of a low‐pass along the degree n (the same as the conventional isotropic filter) simultaneously with a low‐pass along the order m, whose contour projection onto the (n, m) plane is fan‐shaped. It is deterministic and independent of a priori or external information, its implementation is straightforward, and the result is objective. Most importantly, we show that this simple filter performs well among its counterparts under similar conditions, in particular against the N‐S striping noises prevalent in the GRACE TVG solutions. We demonstrate this with Gaussian weights at filter length and hence spatial resolution as fine as 300 km. We also deduce the fan filter's nominal amplitude‐reduction factor as a function of the filter length for TVG signals that follow the Kaula rule.
Characterization of phase change memory materials using phase change bridge devices
Authors: Krebs Daniel , Raoux Simone , Rettner Charles T. , Burr Geoffrey W. , Shelby Robert M. , Salinga Martin , Jefferson C. Michael , Wuttig Matthias ,   IBM/Macronix PCRAM Joint Project
Published: September 2009

Having become one of the most promising candidates for future nonvolatile memory applications, phase change random access memory is now driving an intensive search for phase change materials with optimized properties. In this paper, phase change bridge devices are utilized as a unique material test vehicle, allowing systematic extraction of crucial material parameters such as resistance contrast, switching speed, threshold voltage, and set and reset power. Bridge devices fabricated from undoped Ge15Sb85 are presented that reproducibly switch between set and reset states with one decade resistance contrast using current pulses as short as 10 ns. Since devices are fabricated in the amorphous-as-deposited phase, an interesting intermediate device state can be produced, which we attribute to a crystalline center region that fails to completely bridge the amorphous active device volume. The subtle differences between the amorphous-as-melt-quenched and amorphous-as-deposited phases are explored using both bridge devices and optical experiments. It is shown that the large difference in crystallization times between these two amorphous states observed in laser experiments is reflected also in device operation.
Low-frequency global Alfvén eigenmodes in low-shear tokamaks with trapped energetic ions
Authors: Marchenko V. S. , Kolesnichenko Ya. I. , Reznik S. N.
Published: September 2009

It is shown that, in the tokamak plasmas with broad low-shear central core and safety factor q0≳1, there exists a low-frequency global Alfvén eigenmode capable of resonating with precession of the trapped energetic ions. This mode has the dominant numbers m=n=1, but the coupling with the upper toroidal sideband is crucial both for the eigenmode formation and its excitation by energetic ions. The properties of this mode are consistent with observations of the low-frequency n=1 mode driven by energetic ions in the “hybrid” discharges with perpendicular injection on the JT-60U tokamak [N. Oyama, A. Isayama, G. Matsunaga et al., Nucl. Fusion 49, 065026 (2009)].
Study of trap states in polyspirobifluorene based devices: Influence of aging by electrical stress
Authors: Renaud Cédric , Nguyen Thien-Phap
Published: September 2009

The influence of aging by electrical stress on the formation of defects has been studied in two types of polymers: blue emitting spiro copolymer and white emitting spiro blend polymer. The white emitting spiro polymer was obtained by adding green and red chromophores into the host blue copolymer. The defect states were investigated by using two complementary techniques: charge based deep level transient spectroscopy and thermally stimulated current (TSC). Six trap levels were retrieved in blue emitting diodes with a depth of 0.17–0.85 eV, and the onset of an additional trap with a depth of 0.49 eV was observed in white emitting ones. The density of these traps is of the order of 1016–1017 cm−3. The fractional TSC experiments allowed us to determine the distribution of five trap types in white emitting diodes, which could be described by Gaussian functions. The aging of devices was performed by electrical stress and not by exposure of samples to air or oxygen, in contrast to previous investigations on other organic materials. Upon aging, no new traps have been created or suppressed in both doped and undoped polymers. Furthermore, an enhancement in trap density has been observed. The analysis of the trap characteristics has highlighted that the aging would not uniformly affect the defect levels in the polymer. The density of deeper traps (above 0.3 eV) is increased, and their distribution is also modified, while the shallow traps (below 0.3 eV) remain stable. Furthermore, the investigation of the doping influence on the degradation process has shown that the chromophore addition seems to stabilize the polymer, whose degradation rate is slower than that of the undoped material.
Sensitivity of spin-torque diodes for frequency-tunable resonant microwave detection
Authors: Wang C. , Cui Y.-T. , Sun J. Z. , Katine J. A. , Buhrman R. A. , Ralph D. C.
Published: September 2009

We calculate the efficiency with which magnetic tunnel junctions can be used as resonant detectors of incident microwave radiation via the spin-torque diode effect. The expression we derive is in good agreement with the sensitivities we measure for MgO-based magnetic tunnel junctions with an extended (unpatterned) magnetic pinned layer. However, the measured sensitivities are reduced below our estimate for a second set of devices in which the pinned layer is a patterned synthetic antiferromagnet (SAF). We suggest that this reduction may be due to an undesirable coupling between the magnetic free layer and one of the magnetic layers within the etched SAF. Our calculations suggest that optimized tunnel junctions should achieve sensitivities for resonant detection exceeding 10 000 mV/mW.
Small angle neutron scattering as fingerprinting of ancient potteries from Sicily (Southern Italy)
Authors: Barone G. , Crupi V. , Majolino D. , Mazzoleni P. , Teixeira J. , Venuti V.
Published: September 2009

Small angle neutron scattering measurements have been carried out in order to investigate, in microdestructive way, the mesoscopic structure of a variety of potteries of relevance to cultural heritage coming from different Sicilian (Southern Italy) archeological sites belonging to the “Strait of Messina” area and dated back to 7th–3rd century B.C. Data have been compared with the mesoscopic parameters extracted for two series of clayey sediments typical of the Strait of Messina area and fired under controlled conditions. The observed agreement between the features of reference and archeological samples allowed us to estimate the maximum firing temperature of the latter. Information on the pore sizes was obtained by the use of the concept of fractal surface, and compared with porosimetry results.
Influence of the amorphous/crystalline phase of Zr1−xAlxO2 high-k layers on the capacitance performance of metal insulator metal stacks
Authors: Paskaleva Albena , Lemberger Martin , Bauer Anton J. , Weinreich Wenke , Heitmann Johannes , Erben Elke , Schröder Uwe , Oberbeck Lars
Published: September 2009

The capacitance behavior of metal insulator metal (MIM) structures with Zr1−xAlxO2 dielectrics and TiN metal electrodes is analyzed. The capacitance nonlinearity, the dielectric relaxation, and the loss phenomena are found to depend strongly on the Al content, the dielectric thickness, and the amorphous/crystalline phase of the dielectric layer. Two different kinds of phenomena—crystallization-related and interface-related, are considered to explain the observed results, especially the polarity asymmetry in the dielectric behavior. It is found that crystallization of the films enhances the effects of dielectric relaxation and loss, most likely due to charge trapping at grain boundaries. Further on, reactions between the oxidizing ambient (ozone) and the bottom electrode during high-k deposition result in structural changes (formation of TiOx interfacial layer) and thus in generation of defects which cause a different electrical behavior of the two TiN/Zr1−xAlxO2 interfaces at the top and the bottom electrode and a polarity asymmetry of the capacitance performance.
Formation of periodic strained layers associated with nanovoids inside a silicon carbide single crystal induced by femtosecond laser irradiation
Authors: Okada Tatsuya , Tomita Takuro , Matsuo Shigeki , Hashimoto Shuichi , Ishida Yoichiro , Kiyama Satoshi , Takahashi Tomonori
Published: September 2009

We observed the formation of subwavelength periodic strained layers associated with nanovoids in the cross section of femtosecond laser-irradiated lines written inside 4H-SiC single crystals. Both conventional and high-voltage transmission electron microscopies were carried out for microstructural analyses. The cross section of the irradiated lines consists of four to six groups of fine periodic structures. Each group is composed of strained layers with a typical spacing of 150 or 300 nm. The layers extend along the irradiated lines, aligned parallel to the electric field of the laser light. Tiny voids approximately 20 nm in diameter are found in the layers.
Deformation twinning in Ni–Mn–Ga micropillars with 10M martensite
Authors: Reinhold M. , Kiener D. , Knowlton W. B. , Dehm G. , Müllner P.
Published: September 2009

The maximum actuation frequency of magnetic shape-memory alloys (MSMAs) significantly increases with decreasing size of the transducer making MSMAs interesting candidates for small scale actuator applications. To study the mechanical properties of Ni–Mn–Ga single crystals on small length scales, two single-domain micropillars with dimensions of 10×15×30 μm3 were fabricated from a Ni–Mn–Ga monocrystal using dual beam focused ion beam machining. The pillars were oriented such that the crystallographic c direction was perpendicular to the loading direction. The pillars were compressed to maximum stresses of 350 and 50 MPa, respectively. Atomic force microscopy and magnetic force microscopy were performed prior to fabrication of the pillars and following the deformation experiments. Both micropillars were deformed by twinning as evidenced by the stress-strain curve. For one pillar, a permanent deformation of 3.6% was observed and ac twins (10M martensite) were identified after unloading. For the other pillar, only 0.7% remained upon unloading. No twins were found in this pillar after unloading. The recovery of deformation is discussed in the light of pseudoelastic twinning and twin-substrate interaction. The twinning stress was higher than in similar macroscopic material. However, further studies are needed to substantiate a size effect.
Transient measurement of light-emitting diode characteristic parameters for production lines
Authors: Zhou Shengjun , Liu Sheng
Published: September 2009

A new instrument has been developed for transient measurement of light-emitting diodes (LEDs), including photometric parameters, colorimetric parameters, and electrical parameters in a matter of milliseconds, by combining spectrometer with a human photopic vision detector and data acquisition card (DAQ). The instrument can provide communication interface for sorter to realize automatic sorting of measured LEDs samples. The light emitted from the measured LEDs, which are illuminated under pulse current operation condition, is captured by the spectrometer and the human photopic vision detector. The spectral power distributions of LEDs are recorded by spectrometer, and processed to provide colorimetric parameters. We employ two novel algorithms including look-up table method and curve fitting method to determine the dominant wavelength of LED. In combination with linear interpolation, the look-up table method can locate dominant wavelength with a resolution of 0.1 nm. A programmable constant current source/voltage source is designed for power supply to drive LED. The luminous intensity of LED can be derived by detecting the photocurrent of human photopic vision detector. We also describe the calibration of the human photopic vision detector. This calibration provides detector-specific correction factor that enables accurate extraction of luminous intensity of LED. The instrument has been used to measure and inspect the quality of packaging LED.
Temporal multiplexing radiography for dynamic x-ray imaging
Authors: Cao Guohua , Zhang Jian , Zhou Otto , Lu Jianping
Published: September 2009

All current x-ray imaging devices acquire images sequentially, one at a time. Using a spatially distributed multibeam x-ray source we recently demonstrated the feasibility for multiplexing x-ray imaging, which can significantly increase the data collection speed. Here we present a general methodology for dynamic x-ray imaging of an object in cyclic motion with temporal multiplexing. Compared to the conventional sequential imaging technique, where 2N−1 phase images are required and N exposures are needed for a single phase image, a temporal multiplexing of dimension 2N−1 can reduce the imaging time by a factor of N while maintaining the temporal resolution.
Real-time imaging of histone H4 hyperacetylation in living cells
Authors: Sasaki Kazuki , Ito Tamaki , Nishino Norikazu , Khochbin Saadi , Yoshida Minoru
Published: September 2009

To visualize histone acetylation in living cells, we developed a genetically encoded fluorescent resonance energy transfer (FRET)-based indicator. Response of the indicator reflects changes in the acetylation state of both K5 and K8 in histone H4. Using this acetylation indicator, we were able to monitor the dynamic fluctuation of histone H4 acetylation levels during mitosis, as well as acetylation changes in response to structurally distinct histone deacetylase inhibitors.
Clustering of α
5
β
1
integrins determines adhesion strength whereas α
v
β
3
and talin enable mechanotransduction
Authors: Roca-Cusachs Pere , Gauthier Nils C. , del Rio Armando , Sheetz Michael P.
Published: September 2009

A key molecular link between cells and the extracellular matrix is the binding between fibronectin and integrins α
5
β
1
and α
v
β
3
. However, the roles of these different integrins in establishing adhesion remain unclear. We tested the adhesion strength of fibronectin-integrin-cytoskeleton linkages by applying physiological nanonewton forces to fibronectin-coated magnetic beads bound to cells. We report that the clustering of fibronectin domains within 40 nm led to integrin α
5
β
1
recruitment, and increased the ability to sustain force by over six-fold. This force was supported by α
5
β
1
integrin clusters. Importantly, we did not detect a role of either integrin α
v
β
3
or talin 1 or 2 in maintaining adhesion strength. Instead, these molecules enabled the connection to the cytoskeleton and reinforcement in response to an applied force. Thus, high matrix forces are primarily supported by clustered α
5
β
1
integrins, while less stable links to α
v
β
3
integrins initiate mechanotransduction, resulting in reinforcement of integrin-cytoskeleton linkages through talin-dependent bonds.
Imaging of gastrointestinal stromal tumors before and after imatinib mesylate therapy
Authors: Shankar S. , Dundamadappa S. K. , Karam A. R. , Stay R. M. , van Sonnenberg E.
Published: September 2009

Gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GISTs) account for the majority of gastrointestinal mesenchymal tumors. Recent advances in treatment using the molecular targeting agent imatinib mesylate have shown startling response rates and variegated imaging findings. We present the various imaging appearances of GIST on computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), both before and after treatment.
Analyzing biological network parameters with CentiScaPe
Authors: Scardoni Giovanni , Petterlini Michele , Laudanna Carlo
Published: September 2009

Summary: The increasing availability of large network datasets along with the progresses in experimental high-throughput technologies have prompted the need for tools allowing easy integration of experimental data with data derived form network computational analysis. In order to enrich experimental data with network topological parameters, we have developed the Cytoscape plug-in CentiScaPe. The plug-in computes several network centrality parameters and allows the user to analyze existing relationships between experimental data provided by the users and node centrality values computed by the plug-in. CentiScaPe allows identifying network nodes that are relevant from both experimental and topological viewpoints. CentiScaPe also provides a Boolean logic-based tool that allows easy characterization of nodes whose topological relevance depends on more than one centrality. Finally, different graphic outputs and the included description of biological significance for each computed centrality facilitate the analysis by the end users not expert in graph theory, thus allowing easy node categorization and experimental prioritization.

Availability: CentiScaPe can be downloaded via the Cytoscape web site: http://chianti.ucsd.edu/cyto_web/plugins/index.php. Tutorial, centrality descriptions and example data are available at: http://profs.sci.univr.it/∼scardoni/centiscape/centiscapepage.php

Contact:  giovanni.scardoni@gmail.com

Supplementary information:  Supplementary data are available at Bioinformatics online.
CellClassifier: supervised learning of cellular phenotypes
Authors: Rämö Pauli , Sacher Raphael , Snijder Berend , Begemann Boris , Pelkmans Lucas
Published: September 2009

Summary:CellClassifier is a tool for classifying single-cell phenotypes in microscope images. It includes several unique and user-friendly features for classification using multiclass support vector machines

Availability: Source code, user manual and SaveObjectSegmentation CellProfiler module available for download at www.cellclassifier.ethz.ch under the GPL license (implemented in Matlab).

Contact:  pelkmans@imsb.biol.ethz.ch

Supplementary information:  Supplementary data are available at Bioinformatics online.
Endogenous Opiates in the Nucleus Tractus Solitarius Mediate Electroacupuncture‐Induced Sleep Activities in Rats
Authors: Cheng Chiung-Hsiang , Yi Pei-Lu , Lin Jaung-Geng , Chang Fang-Chia
Published: September 2009

Electroacupuncture (EA) possesses various therapeutic effects, including alleviation of pain, reduction of inflammation and improvement of sleep disturbance. The mechanisms of EA on sleep improvement, however, remain to be determined. It has been stated in ancient Chinese literature that the Anmian (EX17) acupoint is one of the trigger points that alleviates insomnia. We previously demonstrated that EA stimulation of Anmian acupoints in rats during the dark period enhances non‐rapid eye movement (NREM) sleep, which involves the induction of cholinergic activity in the nucleus tractus solitarius (NTS). In addition to cholinergic activation of the NTS, activation of the endogenous opioidergic system may also be a mechanism by which acupuncture affects sleep. Therefore, this study was designed to investigate the involvement of the NTS opioidergic system in EA‐induced alterations in sleep. Our present results indicate that EA of Anmian acupoints increased NREM sleep, but not rapid eye movement sleep, during the dark period in rats. This enhancement in NREM sleep was dose‐dependently blocked by microinjection of opioid receptor antagonist, naloxone, and the μ‐opioid receptor antagonist, naloxonazine, into the NTS; administrations of δ‐receptor antagonist, natrindole, and the κ‐receptor antagonist, nor‐binaltrophimine, however, did not affect EA‐induced alterations in sleep. Furthermore, β‐endorphin was significantly increased in both the brainstem and hippocampus after the EA stimuli, an effect blocked by administration of the muscarinic antagonist scopolamine into the NTS. Our findings suggest that mechanisms of EA‐induced NREM sleep enhancement may be mediated, in part, by cholinergic activation, stimulation of the opiodergic neurons to increase the concentrations of β‐endorphin and the involvement of the μ‐opioid receptors.
Potential Utilization of Mixolab for Quality Evaluation of Bread Wheat Genotypes
Authors: Koksel Hamit , Kahraman Kevser , Sanal Turgay , Ozay Dilek Sivri , Dubat Arnaud
Published: September 2009

The aim of this study was to determine the possibility of using Mixolab to assess the quality of different wheat genotypes. Mixolab data were compared with various flour quality characteristics and bread volume. The samples were chosen to represent a wide range in terms of grain and rheological properties and baking quality. There are eight paramaters used to evaluate a Mixolab curve. C1 and C2 are related to protein quality, whereas C3, C4 and C5 are related to the starch characteristics. Slopes α, β, γ are the indicators of protein weakening, starching speed, and enzymatic degradation. There were significant correlations between two Mixolab parameters (Stability and C2) and Zeleny sedimentation and Alveograph W values (P < 0.01). Some of the Mixolab parameters (C3, C4, C5) were correlated with Alveograph G and P/L value (P < 0.01). Mixolab values are generally in agreement with Farinograph values. There were significant negative correlations between most of the Mixolab parameters (Stability, C2, C3, C4) and Farinograph softening degree. Stability and C2 parameters of Mixolab were also significantly correlated with Farinograph stability values (P < 0.01). The correlation between Mixolab stability and Farinograph stability was considerably high (r = 0.907, P < 0.001). The Mixolab parameters C3, C4, and C5 were significantly correlated with bread volume. Significant correlations were observed between slope α and Zeleny sedimentation (P < 0.05), Alveograph W (P < 0.01), Farinograph softening degree (P < 0.001), and stability (P < 0.001) values.
Cooking and Textural Properties of Some Traditional and Aromatic Rice Cultivars
Authors: Lucisano M. , Mariotti M. , Pagani M. A. , Bottega G. , Fongaro L.
Published: September 2009

The cooking quality of rice is the most important characteristic that affects consumer acceptance and different methodologies have been proposed for its evaluation. In this work, the quality of 11 rice cultivars, six traditional and five aromatic, was investigated. Image analysis was used as a tool for measuring the morphological characteristics of the kernel. To predict cooking quality, samples were analyzed for protein, starch, amylose, and pasting behavior; the hardness and the stickiness of cooked rice were measured by extrusion and compression tests. Results were statistically processed. The textural parameters were significantly correlated to each other and to the amylose content and the rheological characteristics of the cooked samples were statistically correlated with the amylographic indices, confirming the importance of the latter parameters as descriptors of the cooking quality of rice. Interesting differences were evidenced between traditional and aromatic rice cultivars.
Impact of small-scale environmental perturbations on local marine food resources: a case study of a predator, the little penguin
Authors: Ropert-Coudert Yan , Kato Akiko , Chiaradia André
Published: September 2009

Although the impact of environmental changes on the demographic parameters of top predators is well established, the mechanisms by which populations are affected remain poorly understood. Here, we show that a reduction in the thermal stratification of coastal water masses between 2005 and 2006 was associated with reduced foraging and breeding success of little penguins
Eudyptula minor
, major bio-indicators of the Bass Strait ecosystem in southern Australia. The foraging patterns of the penguins suggest that their prey disperse widely in poorly stratified waters, leading to reduced foraging efficiency and poor breeding success. Mixed water regimes resulting from storms are currently unusual during the breeding period of these birds, but are expected to become more frequent due to climate change.
Function follows form: how fibronectin matrix architecture controls cell behaviour
Authors: Schwarzbauer Jean E.
Published: September 2009

Introduction  Fibronectin (FN) matrix assembly is a tightly regulated stepwise process that is initiated by interactions between FN and cell‐surface integrin receptors. Assembly is affected by extracellular factors including availability of FN and the presence of other matrix molecules. In turn, FN matrix activates intracellular signalling pathways via integrin receptors, and these signals regulate cell adhesion, migration and survival. Two kinases immediately downstream of integrins are focal adhesion kinase (FAK) and pp60‐Src. Our results show that activation of these kinases regulates accumulation of FN matrix fibrils and that this process is affected by tenascin‐C, an ECM protein that modulates cell interactions with FN.

Methods  FN assembly was monitored by indirect immunofluorescence and by immunoblotting of deoxycholate (DOC)‐insoluble matrix material with anti‐FN antibodies. Wild‐type mouse fibroblasts and cells lacking FAKs or Src family kinases (SYF cells) were used. Kinase and phosphatase inhibitors were used to regulate enzyme activities.

Results  Mouse fibroblasts lacking FAK assemble significantly reduced amounts of FN fibrils and DOC‐insoluble matrix. FAK is phosphorylated by Src family kinases and fibroblasts lacking Src family kinases (SYF cells) or cells treated with PP1, an inhibitor of SYF kinases, also lack FN matrix. The effects of Src activity are most dramatic during the early stages of de novo assembly by fibroblasts implicating this kinase in the initiation process. While FN stimulates FAK, tenascin‐C, an ECM protein that is expressed at sites of cell movement, has the opposite effect on FAK activity. In fibroblasts on a 3D FN matrix, FAK is constitutively phosphorylated. In contrast, FAK is only transiently activated in the presence of tenascin‐C. Concomitant with the absence of FAK phosphorylation is an inability to assemble FN matrix fibrils.

Conclusion  Our results show that FAKs and Src kinases, which lie downstream of integrins, are essential for efficient initiation of FN matrix assembly. The effects of tenascin‐C on FN matrix and FAK phosphorylation suggest that this protein limits the extent of matrix deposition by regulating FAK activity. Thus, extracellular and intracellular events co‐operate to control FN matrix assembly.
The role of acetylation in Timp‐1 regulation
Authors: Young David A. , Edwards Dylan R. , Clark Ian M.
Published: September 2009

Introduction  Aberrant matrix turnover, mediated by a family of proteases known as matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs), is involved in a number of pathologies including rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis, tumour invasion and metastasis, and liver fibrosis. The active forms of all of the MMPs are inhibited by a family of specific inhibitors, the tissue inhibitors of metalloproteinases (TIMPs). As inhibition represents a major level of control of MMP activity, a detailed knowledge of the mechanisms controlling TIMP gene expression is therefore important in developing therapies for these diseases. Histone acetyl transferases (HATs) play a crucial role in gene regulation via acetylation of both histones (to loosen nucleosomal structure and to recruit accessory factors) and transcription factors. Here, we describe the effects of a histone deacetylase inhibitor (Trichostatin A – TSA) on the TGF‐β1 and Phorbol ester (PMA) induction of Timp‐1.

Materials and methods  RNA isolation, TaqMan® real‐time RT‐PCR, cell culture, transient transfections and reporter gene assays along with electrophoretic mobility shift assays (EMSA) were performed essentially as described (Young et al. 2002).

Results  In murine C3H10T1/2 cells both TGF‐β1 and PMA induce Timp‐1 expression in a protein synthesis‐dependent manner as measured by Northern blotting and TaqMan® real‐time RT‐PCR. TSA superinduces PMA‐induced Timp‐1 expression but represses TGF‐β‐induced Timp‐1 expression. A TSA dose–response experiment further demonstrates that TGF‐β and PMA stimulate Timp‐1 gene expression via different mechanisms. The effects of TGF‐β, PMA and TSA on Timp‐1 expression can be reiterated in transient transfection studies with Timp‐1 promoter containing reporter constructs. Deletion of the proximal AP‐1 motif from the promoter demonstrates that this sequence is critical for TGF‐β1‐induced reporter expression, while PMA appears to act via other sequences/mechanisms.

Discussion  Repression of deacetylation by TSA differentially affects the TGF‐β or PMA induction of Timp‐1. These results will help elucidate the different molecular mechanisms by which these factors regulate the expression of Timp‐1 and other genes. Furthermore, the effects of acetylation on TGF‐β induction of Timp‐1 may act as a paradigm for other cytokine‐induced genes.

This work was funded and supported by the Arthritis Research Campaign (ARC) and the Dunhill Medical Trust.