bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Children’s Provision of Family Caregiving: Benefit or Burden?
Authors: East Patricia L.
Published: March 2010

Abstract—Despite the high numbers of children who provide care to family members in industrialized countries, relatively little is known about the impact of caregiving on children’s development. In this article, issues related to children’s caregiving, including a discussion of who provides care, the costs and benefits of caring, and directions for future research are reviewed. This review is intended to stimulate further study of this issue, particularly in clarifying who is most vulnerable to caregiving burden and understanding how caregiving affects children’s lives and development.
Streptomyces lividans inhibits the proliferation of the fungus Verticillium dahliae on seeds and roots of Arabidopsis thaliana
Authors: Meschke Holger , Schrempf Hildgund
Published: March 2010

Verticillium wilt, a vascular disease in more than 200 dicotyledonous plants, is due to the ascomycete fungus Verticillium dahliae. As documented by video‐microscopy, the soil bacterium Streptomyces lividans strongly reduces the germination of V. dahliae conidia, and the subsequent growth of hyphae. Quantification by the use of DNA‐intercalating dyes and Calcofluor‐staining revealed that during prolonged co‐cultivation, bacterial hyphae proliferate to a dense network, provoke a poor development of V. dahliae vegetative hyphae and lead to an enormous reduction of conidia and microsclerotia. Upon individual application to seeds of the model plant Arabidopsis thaliana, either the bacterial spores or the fungal conidia germinate at or within the mucilage, including its volcano‐shaped structures. The extension of hyphae from each individual strain correlates with the reduction of the pectin‐containing mucilage‐layer. Proliferating hyphae then spread to roots of the emerging seedlings. Plants, which arise in the presence of V. dahliae within agar or soil, have damaged root cells, an atrophied stem and root, as well as poorly developed leaves with chlorosis symptoms. In contrast, S. lividans hyphae settle in bunches preferentially at the outer layer near tips and alongside roots. Resulting plants have a healthy appearance including an intact root system. Arabidopsis thaliana seeds, which are co‐inoculated with V. dahliae and S. lividans, have preferentially proliferating bacterial hyphae within the mucilage, and at roots of the outgrowing seedlings. As a result, plants have considerably reduced disease symptoms. As spores of the beneficial S. lividans strain are obtainable in large quantity, its application is highly attractive.
Basal cell adenoma of the palate – a case report
Authors: Pesic Z. , Mihailovic D.
Published: March 2010

We report a case of basal cell adenoma of the palate in an 11‐year‐old girl. An 11 mm (diameter) round mobile, nontender mass was removed from the soft palate. Histologically, a well‐encapsulated tumour composed of solid epithelial nests with nuclear palisading, and ducts, in loose connective tissue stroma was found. Postoperatively, the patient was followed for 2 years. There were no signs of recurrence.
Peripheral osteoma of the mandible mimicking an ectopic condyle: a case report
Authors: Bjørnland T. , Berstad J.R. , Støre G.
Published: March 2010

Osteoma is an uncommon benign neoplasm composed of mature bone and the growth is slow and continuous. The case of a 46‐year‐old man is presented. He presented with a large swelling on the left side close to the temporomandibular joint. He had suffered an accident with trauma to the head when he was 10‐years. After another trauma at the age of 35 he was examined and a computed tomography revealed a radiopaque mass laterally to the left condylar neck. The osteoma gradually increased in size and resembled an ectopic condyle. The osteoma was removed surgically through an intraoral approach, and no recurrence has been observed.
Distribution of the fungus‐gardening ant (Trachymyrmex septentrionalis) during and after a record drought
Authors: SEAL JON N. , TSCHINKEL WALTER R.
Published: March 2010

Abstract. 1. Insects are known to be influenced by global climate change, especially by drought and increased temperatures.

2. Although ants are widely regarded to be indicator or keystone species and ecosystem engineers, we do not know how ants may respond to global climate change.

3. This study reports the range contraction of an extremely abundant fungus‐gardening ant (Trachymyrmex septentrionalis) over a 3‐year period that coincided with the end of a record drought in southeastern North America.

4. Reduction in nest number appears to be the result of an increase in water‐table levels and decrease in soil aridity.

5. ThereforeT. septentrionalisshould be expected to increase its abundance and presumably its ecological impact during multiyear droughts.
Comparison of higher order aberration profiles between normal and amblyopic eyes in children with idiopathic amblyopia
Authors: Prakash Gaurav , Sharma Namrata , Saxena Rohit , Choudhary Vandana , Menon Vimla , Titiyal Jeewan S.
Published: March 2010

Aim:  To evaluate the higher order aberrations and resultant bilateral wavefront patterns in paediatric patients with idiopathic amblyopia.

Material and Methods:  In this cross sectional observational trial, seventeen consecutive patients of previously diagnosed idiopathic amblyopia underwent wavefront analysis on Zyoptix platform (Bausch and Lomb, Rochester, NY, USA).

Results:  The mean age was 9 ± 3 years. There was no significant difference in comparison with means for the Zernike coefficients between normal and amblyopic eye. However, interrelation between Zernike coefficients, which is responsible for their interaction leading to difference in visual function, was different between amblyopic and fellow eyes. This was noticed using stepwise regression analysis. Predicting variables and R2 (r squared) values for each Zernike polynomial were calculated. The sets of significantly predicting coefficients were different in mostpatients, with only seven common pairs and 42 dissimilar dependent‐predictor sets. Maximum difference in the R‐squared values between amblyopic and normal (fellow) eyes was seen with coma‐like and trefoil‐like aberrations (third order and fifth order terms).

Conclusion:  It seems a strong possibility that a subset of ‘idiopathic’ amblyopia may be associated with loss of symmetry in wavefront patterns of the two eyes.
Predictable signs of benign course of polypoidal choroidal vasculopathy: based upon the long‐term observation of non‐treated eyes
Authors: Okubo Akiko , Arimura Noboru , Abematsu Noriko , Sakamoto Taiji
Published: March 2010

Purpose:  To find predictable signs of benign polypoidal choroidal vasculopathy (PCV).

Methods:  Medical records of 13 eyes from 12 patients who were followed up for 5 years or longer without treatment among 258 consecutive patients with PCV were reviewed retrospectively. The main outcomes measured were best corrected visual acuity (BCVA) and fundus findings during the follow‐up period.

Results:  The average age at presentation was 68 years, and the average follow‐up period after diagnosis was 80 months (range, 62–119 months). The initial mean logarithmic value of the minimal angle of resolution (logMAR) BCVA was 0.28 ± 0.26, and the final mean logMAR BCVA was 0.62 ± 0.72. The difference in the logMAR BCVA values between the two points was not statistically significant (p > 0.05). The trend of change from baseline at 2‐year follow‐up was consistent with those at 5‐year follow‐up in nine eyes. Fundus findings at the initial examination were classified into two patterns: (i) reddish‐orange nodules and detachment of the retinal pigment epithelium with/without detachment of the neurosensory retina (nine eyes); (ii) reddish‐orange nodules alone, or nodules and small subretinal haemorrhage (four eyes). In the eyes with the first pattern, clinical course and visual prognosis were variable. An absence of hard exudates could be a sign to maintain a benign clinical course or stable vision with this pattern. The eyes with the second pattern took a benign clinical course with stable vision.

Conclusions:  There is certainly a group of PCV eyes with a benign prognosis. Considering the huge cost and risk of current therapies, the initial ocular findings could be deciding factors that determine the necessity for further treatment.
SOME CASES OF MISTAKEN IDENTITY? PANTOMIME MASKS AND THEIR CONTEXT
Authors: JORY JOHN
Published: March 2010

Pantomime, a form of masked mime, is known in the Hellenistic world from the third century BC. In a modified form it was the most popular type of performance on the stages of the Roman empire. The masks worn differed from the masks of drama in that they had closed mouths. The first part of the paper demonstrates that it is possible to classify types of pantomime mask in the same way that the masks of drama have been classified. The second part looks at the chronology and provenance of the surviving representations of pantomime masks and suggests reasons for the different dates at which they were incorporated into the theatrical iconography of various areas of the Roman world.
COMIC CUTS: SNIPPETS OF ACTION ON THE GREEK COMIC STAGE
Authors: GREEN J. R.
Published: March 2010

The article represents a preliminary attempt to distinguish aspects of performance style in Athenian comedy from the later fifth to the third quarter of the fourth century on the basis of depictions on contemporary vases. It examines issues of dress and deportment, the changing place of female roles in comedy of the period (or the popular perception of these roles), and what one can observe of the growing subtlety of presentation. These developments are set against some literary evidence for the norms of public behaviour and appearance at that period. It also looks at what one can judge of the appearance and height of the stage in the theatres of Athens, Taranto, and Syracuse.
HOMER AND EURIPIDES' TROADES
Authors: DAVIDSON JOHN
Published: March 2010

Like all other Greek poets, Euripides falls under the shadow of Homer. The Troades is closely bound up with the Iliad, in that it represents the fulfilment of Troy's fate so clearly foreshadowed in the Homeric epic. It is not so much a question of linguistic echoes as of situational allusion associated especially with the figures of Andromache and Asyanax, widow and son of Hector. While Homeric and 5th Century values are clearly in tension, as can also be seen in the formal debate between Hecabe and Helen (which also draws the Odyssey into the intertextual nexus), and while Euripides may well to some extent be ironizing and critiquing, he appears at the same time to be offering an impassioned Homeric sequel to the Iliad itself.
MEDICAL REFERENCE IN EURIPIDES
Authors: CRAIK E. M.
Published: March 2010

The relation between medical texts and Euripidean drama is explored through a multiplicity of examples drawn from the extant plays and fragments. Emphasis is placed on the problems and limitations, as well as the potential and rewards, of comparing material from these different genres. First, the overlapping character of metaphorical and technical language is addressed, and the testimony of the lexicographer Erotian adduced. Allusion to various aspects of medicine - therapy and regimen; pathology; anatomy and physiology - is then identified in Euripides' output. It is argued that, in addition to general familiarity with many medical ideas, Euripides may have had particular knowledge of the Hippocratic treatises Breaths and Articulations. Finally, linguistic trends in fifth century Greek usage are noted and aspects peculiar to Euripides' poetic technique isolated. Directions for further research are suggested.
ON PHORMISKOI AGAIN
Authors: KEFALIDOU EURYDICE
Published: March 2010

This article tries to access the possible or alleged connections between the ancient phormiskoi-bags and two other groups of objects commonly called phormiskoi by modern scholarship. First, some two hundred clay gourd-shaped objects produced all over the Central and Eastern Mediterranean. These objects were imitations of gourds or of gourd-made vessels: many have a pebble inside and function as rattles. The symbolic nature of the bottle-gourd is also discussed since most of the clay objects have obvious funerary connotations (they were found in graves, in sanctuaries of underworld deities, or bear funerary decoration). Second, the numerous piriform objects that appear almost exclusively on Attic red-figured vases, usually in education and music scenes. These objects seem to have been made of a hard though light raw material and may have a suspension loop and/or a lateral aperture secured with threads. Their use is obscure and their contents — if any — are never shown.
Detection of a Large-Scale Structure of Intracluster Globular Clusters in the Virgo Cluster
Authors: Lee Myung Gyoon , Park Hong Soo , Hwang Ho Seong
Published: March 2010

Cluster Within Virgo

Globular clusters are gravitationally bound systems within galaxies containing hundreds of thousands of stars. Using data from the Sloan Digital Sky Survey of the thousands of galaxies that constitute the Virgo cluster,

Lee
et al.

(p.
334
, published online 11 March) fulfilled a prediction made almost 60 years ago and found globular clusters outside galaxies. In Virgo the clusters are found far from the center and are concentrated in several substructures much larger than galaxies. Possibly they were stripped off from low-mass dwarf galaxies, and potentially trace the dark matter distribution within the Virgo cluster.
Experimental Infection and Pathogenesis of Viral Erythrocytic Necrosis (VEN) in Atlantic Cod, Gadus morhua
Authors: Reno Paul W. , Kleftis Katherine , Sherburne Stuart W. , Nicholson Bruce L.
Published: March 2010

Mature Atlantic cod (Gadus morhua) were experimentally infected with viral erythrocytic necrosis (VEN) by inoculation with washed erythrocytes or ceil-free homogenates of erythrocytes from naturally infected fish. Approximately one third of the animals exposed exhibited active infections. The temporal pattern of infection was similar between naturally infected and experimentally infected fish. One to two months after infection, immature erythrocytes began to show clear evidence of VEN followed by a rapid increase in the proportion of infected immature erythrocytes, frequently reaching 100%. A subsequent dramatic drop in infection of immature erythrocytes occurred, coinciding with an increase of infection in mature erythrocytes. Significant erythroblastosis occurred when the overall erythrocyte infection rate reached approximately 10%, but none of the newly generated erythrocytes appeared infected. The peak infection rate (40–60% of erythrocytes infected) declined slowly and the infection, in most instances, was completely resolved.
Population Structure, Ecological Segregation, and Reproduction in a Population of Arctic Char (Salvelinus alpinus) from Lake Tasersuaq, Greenland
Authors: Riget F. F. , Nygaard K. H. , Christensen B.
Published: March 2010

The population of Arctic char (Salvelinus alpinus) in a large lake, Tasersuaq, in West Greenland consisted of three distinct size groups representing ecological forms with differences in habitat, feeding, and reproduction. Smaller char were benthic and fed on chironomids whereas medium-sized char were living pelagically in summer, feeding on zooplankton. Larger char moved randomly over the strata, and cannibalism increased in importance with increasing size. Within each size group there was a great variation in age. All three groups contained spawners but spawning frequency variated between groups. Smaller forms probably transform to larger ones with correlated shifts in diet and periods of somatic growth only. We hypothesize that the ecological forms of the Tasersuaq population may represent an early step towards speciation. This view bridges the opposing interpretations of char populations presented in the literature considering different forms as belonging to either a common gene pool or to reproductively isolated sibling species.
Physiological Responses to Acid Stress in Crayfish (Orconectes): Haemolymph Ions, Acid–Base Status, and Exchanges with the Environment
Authors: Wood Chris M. , Rogano Mary S.
Published: March 2010

Exposure of Orconectes propinquus for 5 d to pH = 4.0 (H2SO4) in decarbonated soft water ([Ca2+] = 0.20 mequiv∙L?1) caused a severe metabolic acidosis and a moderate depression of [Na+] and [Cl−] in the haemolymph. Lactate did not accumulate. Acidosis was caused by a large uptake of acidic equivalents from the environmental water, of which more than 95% was stored outside the extracellular compartment after 5 d. Carapace buffering was probably involved, because haemolymph [Ca2+] rose substantially and Ca2+was lost to the environment. Similar net effluxes of K+indicated that acidic equivalents also penetrated the intracellular compartment. [Formula: see text] was also lost during acid exposure. Haemolymph [Na+] fell more than [Cl?] because of greater net losses to the water. Unidirectional flux analyses with radiotracers demonstrated that negative net Na+and Cl−balance resulted from partial inhibition of influx components; effluxes were little affected. All flux effects were reversed during 5 d of recovery at pH = 7.5. Haemolymph ionic responses in Orconectes rusticus differed in showing a smaller, equimolar reduction of [Na+] and [Cl−] and a much larger elevation of [Ca2+]. At a mechanistic level, the responses of crayfish to acid stress appear very different from those of teleost fish.
Spatial Correlations of Transferrin Allele Frequencies in Atlantic Salmon (Salmo salar) Populations from North America
Authors: Verspoor Eric
Published: March 2010

Existing analyses of spatial patterns of transferrin (Tf) allele frequency variation in anadromous Atlantic salmon (Salmo salar) from rivers in North America have not utilized all available data. Further analysis shows that a latitudinal dine in Tf-4 allele frequency previously reported is an artefact of a major regional difference between populations from Newfoundland/Labrador and those sampled elsewhere. Furthermore, the allele frequencies of populations outside Newfoundland/Labrador show a significant association with the proportion of spawning fish in the populations having spent only one winter at sea. Fequencies in Newfoundland/Labrador are collectively consistent with this relationship but by themselves show no similar correlation. These results, combined with previously reported differences between anadromous and nonanadromous fish, suggest that selective forces, which vary with life history pattern, may operate on the polymorphism.
Rock movements induced by the construction of the Hamilton Mountain trunk sewer (stage 4)
Authors: Roegiers J.-C. , Thompson J. C. , McLennan J. D.
Published: March 2010

During the extension of the Hamilton Mountain trunk sewer, instantaneous and long-term movements were monitored in the rock strata containing the excavated trench. Movements as far as 150 m from the trench axis were observed over a period of more than 1 year.Although the movements seem to be continuous and decreasing with time, their spatial distribution and dissipation are not entirely predictable, suggesting the important role of local geological features.Interpretations of the results and recommendations for other work in the region are submitted.
A method of estimating excess pore pressures beneath embankments on sensitive clays
Authors: Law K. T. , Bozozuk M.
Published: March 2010

A laboratory testing program for predicting undrained excess pore pressures beneath embankments constructed on sensitive clays is reported. A study of the pore pressure response, based on Henkel's equation applied to triaxial and plane strain tests performed on marine clay from South Gloucester, Ontario, provides a basis for comparing behaviour under conditions of axisymmetry and plane strain. Comparison shows that (1) pore pressure is smaller in plane strain than in axisymmetric conditions; (2) a below-elastic response prevails at the prepeak stage of the stress–strain curve; and (3) there is an elastic response at the peak.Finite element and modified elastic methods are developed for estimating undrained excess pore-water pressures from laboratory test results. The estimated values are used to evaluate the effect of consolidation under the center of an embankment during construction. The procedure is illustrated with case records.
Groundwater control to the rescue: two case histories
Authors: Seychuk J. L. , Lahti L. R.
Published: March 2010

Two case histories are discussed where groundwater lowering was used to permit completion of excavations that experienced problems because of the lack of groundwater control.The first case involved a 4.1 m diameter tunnel, some 26 m below grade, within a clay stratum sandwiched between two water-bearing, granular deposits. Several collapses of the tunnel roof occurred because of a local depression in the surface of the clay stratum, allowing the upper, water-charged granular material to flow into the tunnel. Subsequent investigations indicated the feasibility of lowering the groundwater level by means of an eductor well system, allowing completion of the tunnel in relatively dry conditions.The second case describes groundwater problems associated with the sinking of a 21 m deep exploratory mine shaft through water-bearing silts and sands. Three attempts at sinking the shaft without groundwater control had failed. Therefore, based on the results of a pumping test, eductor wells were installed around a steel sheet pile cofferdam to permit the successful sinking of the shaft to bedrock.
Foundation performance of Gardiner Dam
Authors: Jaspar J. L. , Peters N.
Published: March 2010

Gardiner Dam is founded on a highly overconsolidated clay shale that had a profound influence on embankment design and performance. The shale contains preconstruction shear zones whose specific location, extent, and strength characteristics were virtually impossible to determine from test samples and soil logs. Analyses of slumped valley slopes and of shallow excavation slopes that moved during early stages of construction overestimated the strength of dormant shear zones that were activated during subsequent embankment construction. Major design modifications consisting of extensive slope flattening and toe-berm loading were undertaken to compensate for the weakness of the shear zones.About 2 m of foundation settlement and over 2 m of lateral displacement occurred under the central section of the 64 m high embankment during construction, but virtually none happened at the toe. Annual post construction increments of lateral displacement are related mainly to the yearly cyclic reservoir load. Although these deformations have decreased to the order of 2 cm/year, comprehensive monitoring and critical evaluation are maintained in order to ensure long-term safety and functional adequacy of the project.The design and construction of Gardiner Dam proceeded at the forefront of knowledge and understanding of the residual shear strength and behavior of highly overconsolidated clay shales. The construction and postconstruction performance of the foundation, which is described in this paper, indicates that much more information and research are needed to fully understand the long-term behavior of such materials.
Experimental study of punching coefficients and shape factor for two-layered soils
Authors: Valsangkar A. J. , Meyerhof G. G.
Published: March 2010

The ultimate bearing capacity of deep foundations has been investigated for the case of a strong layer overlying a weak stratum. The studies are based on model tests using buried circular and strip footings for a range of layer thicknesses. Based on the previously developed bearing capacity theory, the punching shear coefficients and corresponding shape factors have been evaluated.
Shear strength and stress—strain behaviour of Athabasca oil sand at elevated temperatures and pressures
Authors: Agar J. G. , Morgenstern N. R. , Scott J. D.
Published: March 2010

The results of a series of triaxial compression tests on undisturbed samples of Athabasca oil sand at elevated temperatures ranging from 20 to 200 °C are summarized. The material tested had experienced gradual unloading and depressurization as a result of erosion in the Saline Creek valley near Fort McMurray. More deeply buried oil sands are known to contain much higher concentrations of dissolved hydrocarbon gases in the pore fluids. The measured shear strength of Athabasca oil sand did not change significantly as a result of the increased temperatures that were applied. The strength of Athabasca oil sand (at 20–200 °C) was found to be greater than comparable shear strengths reported for dense Ottawa sand (at 20 °C). Although heating to 200 °C had little effect on shear strength, it is recognized that pore pressure generation during undrained heating may cause substantial reduction of the available shearing resistance, particularly in gas-rich oil sands. The experimental data were used to investigate the influence of such factors as stress path dependency, microfabric disturbance, and heating to elevated temperatures on the shear strength and stress–strain behaviour of oil sand. Curve fitting of the test data suggests that the hyperbolic model is a useful empirical technique for stress—deformation analyses in oil sands. Hyperbolic stress—strain parameters derived from the experimental results for Athabasca oil sand are presented. Key words: oil sand, Athabasca oil sand, tar sand, shear strength, stress, strain, deformation, heating, high temperature, elevated temperatures, high pressure, elevated pressure, thermal properties, drained heating, undrained heating, triaxial compression testing.
DOSE DISTRIBUTION CALCULATION IN SKIN CANCER TREATMENT USING LEIPZIG APPLICATOR
Authors: MOWLAWI ALI ASGHAR , YAZDANI MAJED
Published: March 2010

The combination of 192 Ir seed with the Leipzig applicators is used in a considerable number of clinical trials for skin cancer treatment. As is known, the beneficial effects of ionizing radiation for tumor treatment depends on the dosimetry accuracy. Nowadays, dosimetry calculations are supported by the characteristics provided by the manufacturer, which have been obtained from measurements with an ionization chamber in a phantom. Despite their benefit, the experimental data involves errors related to the positioning, energy, and angular dependence of the detectors. Thus, in order to get a detailed and more accurate dosimetry, the Monte Carlo code MCNP4C2 — Monte Carlo Neutron Particle, 4C2 version — has been employed to analyze the dose distribution in depth and at the surface in the skin cancer treatment using Leipzig applicators. On the other hand, some different measurements have been taken to validate the method and compare results. The results for this material of phantom (the skin with 0.5 cm thick over infinite soft tissue) can be used in treatment planning systems and also for computation of model dependent parameters like anisotropy dose function.
PHASE DIAGRAMS OF VARIOUS KINDS OF ISING SPIN-GLASS MODELS WITH A NEW PARAMETER TO CONTROL FRUSTRATION ON A GIVEN LATTICE
Authors: HASHIZUME YOUICHIRO , HU XIAO , SUZUKI MASUO
Published: March 2010

In this study, we introduce a new method to control continuously the frustration caused by the quenched interaction in a given lattice, and we examine how the phenomenon changes by continuous control of the frustration, especially examining a continuous change of phase transition points. For this purpose, we introduce many-body correlation among original spin-interactions using a distribution function to express the correlations, which plays a role of a parameter to control the frustration. The transition points have been obtained by the cluster effective field theory. As a result, an interesting phase diagram has been obtained for the continuous change of frustration. Furthermore, phase transitions of various models can be analyzed systematically in a fixed lattice from this phase diagram with a variable of continuous change of frustration. In addition, it is understood that the spin-glass transition points do not depend on the disorder of the interaction and are decided only by the frustration.
ON THE NUMBER OF SOLUTIONS TO CERTAIN DIAGONAL EQUATIONS OVER FINITE FIELDS
Authors: BAOULINA IOULIA
Published: March 2010

We consider a diagonal equation, which can be reduced to the form [Formula: see text] over a finite field of characteristic p > 2. In 1997, Sun obtained the explicit formula for the number of solutions to an equation of this type when n is even. In this paper, we find explicit formulas for the number of solutions when n is odd, k = 2rh, and there exists a positive integer ℓ such that pℓ ≡ 2m-1h + 1 ( mod 2mh), m = 3 or 4, r ≥ m, h = 1 or 3.
FOURTEEN OCTONARY QUADRATIC FORMS
Authors: ALACA AYŞE , ALACA ŞABAN , WILLIAMS KENNETH S.
Published: March 2010

We use the recent evaluation of certain convolution sums involving the sum of divisors function to determine the number of representations of a positive integer by certain diagonal octonary quadratic forms whose coefficients are 1, 2 or 4.
CYCLIC SEXTIC TRINOMIALS x6 + Ax + B
Authors: BREMNER ANDREW , SPEARMAN BLAIR K.
Published: March 2010

A correspondence is obtained between irreducible cyclic sextic trinomials x6 + Ax + B ∈ ℚ[x] and rational points on a genus two curve. This implies that up to scaling, x6 + 133x + 209 is the only cyclic sextic trinomial of the given type.
DENSITY OF POSITIVE RANK FIBERS IN ELLIPTIC FIBRATIONS, II
Authors: MUNSHI RITABRATA
Published: March 2010

We show that for a quartic elliptic fibration over a real number field, existence of two positive rank fibers implies existence of a dense set of positive rank fibers. We also prove the same result for certain sextic families.
ON THE RATIO OF CONSECUTIVE PRIMES
Authors: COPIL VLAD , PANAITOPOL LAURENŢIU
Published: March 2010

For n ≥ 1, let pn be the nth prime number and [Formula: see text] for n ≥ 1. Using several results of Erdős, we study the sequence (qn)n ≥ 1 and we prove similar results as for the sequence (dn)n ≥ 1, dn = pn+1 - pn. We also consider the sequence [Formula: see text] for n ≥ 1 and denote by Gn and An its geometrical and arithmetical averages. We prove that [Formula: see text] for n ≥ 4.
Inhibitory effect of ethanol on AMPK phosphorylation is mediated in part through elevated ceramide levels
Authors: Liangpunsakul Suthat , Sozio Margaret S. , Shin Eric , Zhao Zhenwen , Xu Yan , Ross Ruth A. , Zeng Yan , Crabb David W.
Published: March 2010

Ethanol treatment of cultured hepatoma cells and of mice inhibited the activity of AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK). This study shows that the inhibitory effect of ethanol on AMPK phosphorylation is exerted through the inhibition of the phosphorylation of upstream kinases and the activation of protein phosphatase 2A (PP2A).Inhibition of AMPK phosphorylation by palmitate was attributed to ceramide-dependent PP2A activation. We hypothesized that the inhibitory effect of ethanol on AMPK phosphorylation was mediated partly through the generation of ceramide. The effect of ethanol and inhibitors of ceramide synthesis on AMPK phosphorylation, ceramide levels, and PP2A activity were assessed in rat hepatoma cells (H4IIEC3). The effect of ethanol on hepatic ceramide levels was also studied in C57BL/6J mice fed the Lieber-DeCarli diet. In H4IIEC3 cells, ceramide reduced AMPK phosphorylation when they were treated for between 4 and 12 h. The basal level of AMPK phosphorylation in hepatoma cells was increased with the treatment of ceramide synthase inhibitor, fumonisin B1. Ethanol treatment significantly increased cellular ceramide content and PP2A activity by ∼18–23%, when the cells were treated with ethanol for between 4 and 12 h. These changes in intracellular ceramide concentrations and PP2A activity correlated with the time course over which ethanol inhibited AMPK phosphorylation. The activation of PP2A and inhibition of AMPK phosphorylation caused by ethanol was attenuated by fumonisin B1 and imipramine, an acid sphingomyelinase (SMase) inhibitor. There was a significant increase in the levels of ceramide and acid SMase mRNA in the livers of ethanol-fed mice compared with controls. We concluded that the effect of ethanol on AMPK appears to be mediated in part through increased cellular levels of ceramide and activation of PP2A.
Sustained VEGF delivery via PLGA nanoparticles promotes vascular growth
Authors: Golub Justin S. , Kim Young-tae , Duvall Craig L. , Bellamkonda Ravi V. , Gupta Divya , Lin Angela S. , Weiss Daiana , Robert Taylor W. , Guldberg Robert E.
Published: March 2010

Technologies to increase tissue vascularity are critically important to the fields of tissue engineering and cardiovascular medicine. Currently, limited technologies exist to encourage angiogenesis and arteriogenesis in a controlled manner. In the present study, we describe an injectable controlled release system consisting of VEGF encapsulated in poly(lactic- co-glycolic acid) (PLGA) nanoparticles (NPs). The majority of VEGF was released gradually over 2–4 days from the NPs as determined by an ELISA release kinetics experiment. An in vitro aortic ring bioassay was used to verify the bioactivity of VEGF-NPs compared with empty NPs and no treatment. A mouse femoral artery ischemia model was then used to measure revascularization in VEGF-NP-treated limbs compared with limbs treated with naked VEGF and saline. 129/Sv mice were anesthetized with isoflurane, and a region of the common femoral artery and vein was ligated and excised. Mice were then injected with VEGF-NPs, naked VEGF, or saline. After 4 days, three-dimensional microcomputed tomography angiography was used to quantify vessel growth and morphology. Mice that received VEGF-NP treatment showed a significant increase in total vessel volume and vessel connectivity compared with 5 μg VEGF, 2.5 μg VEGF, and saline treatment (all P < 0.001). When the yield of the fabrication process was taken into account, VEGF-NPs were over an order of magnitude more potent than naked VEGF in increasing blood vessel volume. Differences between the VEGF-NP group and all other groups were even greater when only small-sized vessels under 300 μm diameter were analyzed. In conclusion, sustained VEGF delivery via PLGA NPs shows promise for encouraging blood vessel growth in tissue engineering and cardiovascular medicine applications.
Microtubular stability affects cardiomyocyte glycolysis by HIF-1α expression and endonuclear aggregation during early stages of hypoxia
Authors: Teng Miao , Dang Yong-Ming , Zhang Jia-ping , Zhang Qiong , Fang Ya-dong , Ren Jun , Huang Yue-sheng
Published: March 2010

Hypoxia-inducible factor (HIF)-1α is a key regulator of anaerobic energy metabolism. We asked the following question: Does the breakdown of microtubular structures influence glycolysis in hypoxic cardiomyocytes by regulating HIF-1α? Neonatal rat cardiomyocytes were cultured under hypoxic conditions, while microtubule-stabilizing (paclitaxel) and -depolymerizing (colchicine) agents were used to change microtubular structure. Models of high microtubule-associated protein 4 (MAP4) expression and RNA interference of microtubulin expression were established. Microtubular structural changes and intracellular HIF-1α protein distribution were observed with laser confocal scanning microscopy. Content of key glycolytic enzymes, viability, and energy content of cardiomyocytes were determined by colorimetry and high-performance liquid chromatography. HIF-1α protein content and mRNA expression were determined by Western blotting and real-time PCR, respectively. Low doses of microtubule-stabilizing agent (10 μmol/l paclitaxel) and enhanced expression of MAP4 stabilized the reticular microtubular structures in hypoxic cardiomyocytes, increased the content of key glycolytic enzymes, ameliorated energy supply and enhanced cell viability, and upregulated HIF-1α protein expression and endonuclear aggregation. In contrast, the microtubule-depolymerizing agent (10 μmol/l colchicine) or reduced microtubulin expression had adverse affects on the same parameters, in particular, HIF-1α protein content and endonuclear aggregation. We conclude that microtubular structural changes influence glycolysis in the early stages of hypoxia in cardiomyocytes by regulating HIF-1α content. Stabilizing microtubular structures increases endonuclear and total HIF-1α expression, content of key glycolytic enzymes, and energy supply. These findings provide potential therapeutic targets for ameliorating cell energy metabolism during early myocardial hypoxia.
Network Properties for Ranking Predicted miRNA Targets in Breast Cancer
Authors: Linde Jörg , Olsson Björn , Lubovac Zelmina
Published: March 2010

MicroRNAs control the expression of their target genes by translational repression and transcriptional cleavage. They are involved in various biological processes including development and progression of cancer. To uncover the biological role of miRNAs it is important to identify their target genes. The small number of experimentally validated target genes makes computer prediction methods very important. However, state-of-the-art prediction tools result in a great number of putative targets with an unpredictable number of false positives. In this paper, we propose and evaluate two approaches for ranking the biological relevance of putative targets of miRNAs which are associated with breast cancer.
Adherence to Diaphragm Use for Infection Prevention: A Prospective Study of Female Sex Workers in Kenya
Authors: Bukusi Elizabeth A. , Gallo Maria F. , Sharma Anjali , Njoroge Betty , Jamieson Denise J. , Nguti Rosemary , Bell April J. , Eschenbach David A.
Published: March 2010

Objective. To assess adherence to and acceptability of the diaphragm among 140 female sex workers in Kenya in a 6-month prospective study.Methods. At baseline and bimonthly visits, participants were interviewed on diaphragm knowledge, attitude, and practices. We used principal component analysis and logistic regression to identify predictors of consistent use.Results. At 50% of 386 bimonthly visits, women reported consistently using a diaphragm with all partners during the preceding 2 weeks. Consistent use was significantly higher at the 6-month than the 2-month visit. Women reported less covert use with “helping” (regular sex partners to whom she could go for help or support) than with “other” partners. Perceptions that diaphragms are easier to use than condoms and that their lack of coital interruption is important were associated with consistent diaphragm use with both partner types. Partner support of diaphragm use is correlated with consistent use with “helping” partners only while higher parity, consistent condom use, and perceived lack of need of condoms as a benefit of diaphragms were associated with consistent use with “other” partners.Conclusions. Diaphragm acceptance among female sex workers in Nairobi was high. Future studies should distinguish between partner types when evaluating diaphragm adherence.
Does Hypothyroidism Affect Gastrointestinal Motility?
Authors: Yaylali Olga , Kirac Suna , Yilmaz Mustafa , Akin Fulya , Yuksel Dogangun , Demirkan Nese , Akdag Beyza
Published: March 2010

Background. Gastrointestinal motility and serum thyroid hormone levels are closely related. Our aim was to analyze whether there is a disorder in esophagogastric motor functions as a result of hypothyroidism.Materials and Methods. The study group included 30 females (mean age ± SE 45.17 ± 2.07 years) with primary hypothyroidism and 10 healthy females (mean age ± SE 39.40 ± 3.95 years). All cases underwent esophagogastric endoscopy and scintigraphy. For esophageal scintigraphy, dynamic imaging of esophagus motility protocol, and for gastric emptying scintigraphy, anterior static gastric images were acquired.Results. The mean esophageal transit time (52.56 ± 4.07 sec for patients; 24.30 ± 5.88 sec for controls;P=.02) and gastric emptying time (49.06 ± 4.29 min for the hypothyroid group; 30.4 ± 4.74 min for the control group;P=.01) were markedly increased in cases of hypothyroidism.Conclusion. Hypothyroidism prominently reduces esophageal and gastric motor activity and can cause gastrointestinal dysfunction.
Gravitational Capture of Asteroids by Gas Drag
Authors: Vieira Neto E. , Winter O. C.
Published: March 2010

Several irregular satellites of the giant planets were found in the last years. Their orbital configuration suggests that these
satellites were asteroids captured by the planets. The restricted three‐body problem can explain the dynamics of the capture, but
the capture is temporary. It is necessary some kind of dissipative effect to turn the temporary capture into a permanent one. In this
work we study an asteroid suffering a gas drag at an extended atmosphere of a planet to turn a temporary capture into a
permanent one. In the primordial Solar System, gas envelopes were created around the planet. An asteroid that was gravitationally
captured by the planet got its velocity reduced and could been trapped as an irregular satellite. It is well known that, depending on the time scale of the gas envelope, an asteroid will spiral and collide with the planet. So, we simulate the passage of the asteroid in the gas envelope with its density decreasing along the time. Using this approach, we found effective captures, and have a better understanding of the whole process. Finally, we conclude that the origin of the irregular satellites cannot be attributed to the gas drag capture mechanism alone.
Clostridium septicumAortitis and Cecal Adenocarcinoma
Authors: Moseley Brian , Mwirigi Nicola W. , Bowen Juan
Published: March 2010

Clostridium septicumaortitis is a rare infection that is highly associated with underlying malignancy. We present a case of an 82-year-old male diagnosed with bothC. septicumaortitis and a high-grade cecal tubulovillous adenoma. The patient was offered aortic resection; however, he opted for only suppressive antibiotic therapy and a right hemicolectomy with ileocolonic anastomosis. He ultimately passed away 75 days following admission. The authors report on the connection betweenC. septicumaortitis and malignancy. The authors also discuss the need for prompt treatment with antibiotics once the infection is identified and the consideration of aortic resection given the risk of aneurysmal change with aortic dissection or rupture.
Successful Pregnancy and Delivery in a Patient with Chronic Myeloid Leukemia while on Dasatinib Therapy
Authors: Conchon Monika , Sanabani Sabri S. , Serpa Mariana , Novaes Mafalda M. Y. , Nardinelli Luciana , Ferreira Patrícia B. , Dorliac-Llacer Pedro Enrique , Bendit Israel
Published: March 2010

Here we report the case of an 18-year-old woman with chronic myeloid leukemia (CML) who became pregnant while undergoing treatment with dasatinib. Before pregnancy, she received imatinib mesylate therapy but could not tolerate the treatment. The regimen was then changed to dasatinib at a dose of 70 mg b.i.d. While she was in hematological remission and on dasatinib therapy, she became pregnant. The unplanned pregnancy was identified after the patient had experienced four weeks of amenorrhea. Because the patient elected to continue the pregnancy to term, dasatinib was stopped immediately. Meanwhile, CML hematological relapse occurred and then she was treated with interferon- (IFN-) (9 million IU/day) throughout the pregnancy without a complete hematological response. She successfully gave birth to a male baby at 33 weeks by cesarean section delivery with no sequelae or malformations. Although this experience is limited to a single patient, it provides a useful contribution for counselling patients inadvertently exposed to dasatinib during pregnancy.
Some Fixed Point Theorems of Integral Type Contraction in Cone Metric Spaces
Authors: Khojasteh Farshid , Goodarzi Zahra , Razani Abdolrahman
Published: March 2010

We define a new concept of integral with respect to a cone. Moreover, certain fixed point theorems in those spaces are proved. Finally, an extension of Meir-Keeler fixed point in cone metric space is proved.
Dynamic CMOS Load Balancing and Path Oriented in Time Optimization Algorithms to Minimize Delay Uncertainties from Process Variations
Authors: Yelamarthi Kumar , Chen Chien-In Henry
Published: March 2010

The complexity of timing optimization of high-performance circuits has been increasing rapidly in proportion to the shrinking CMOS device size and rising magnitude of process variations. Addressing these significant challenges, this paper presents a timing optimization algorithm for CMOS dynamic logic and a Path Oriented IN Time (POINT) optimization flow for mixed-static-dynamic CMOS logic, where a design is partitioned into static and dynamic circuits. Implemented on a 64-b adder and International Symposium on Circuits and Systems (ISCAS) benchmark circuits, the POINT optimization algorithm has shown an average improvement in delay by 38% and delay uncertainty from process variations by 35% in comparison with a state-of-the-art commercial optimization tool.
Improved Killing of Human High-Grade Glioma Cells by Combining Ionizing Radiation with Oncolytic Parvovirus H-1 Infection
Authors: Geletneky Karsten , Hartkopf Andreas D. , Krempien Robert , Rommelaere Jean , Schlehofer Joerg R.
Published: March 2010

Purpose. To elucidate the influence of ionizing radiation (IR) on the oncolytic activity of Parvovirus H-1 (H-1PV) in human high-grade glioma cells.Methods. Short term cultures of human high-grade gliomas were irradiated at different doses and infected with H-1PV. Cell viability was assessed by determining relative numbers of surviving cells. Replication of H-1PV was measured by RT-PCR of viral RNA, fluorescence-activated cell sorter (FACS) analysis and the synthesis of infectious virus particles. To identify a possible mechanism for radiation induced change in the oncolytic activity of H-1PV we performed cell cycle analyses.Results. Previous irradiation rendered glioma cells fully permissive to H-1PV infection. Irradiation 24 hours prior to H-1PV infection led to increased cell killing most notably in radioresistant glioma cells. Intracellular levels of NS-1, the main effector of H-1PV induced cytotoxicity, were elevated after irradiation. S-phase levels were increased one day after irradiation improving S-phase dependent viral replication and cytotoxicity.Conclusion. This study demonstrates intact susceptibility of previously irradiated glioma-cells for H-1PV induced oncolysis. The combination of ionizing radiation followed by H-1PV infection increased viral cytotoxicity, especially in radioresistant gliomas. These findings support the ongoing development of a clinical trial of H-1PV in patients with recurrent glioblastomas.
Effects of Lifestyle Measures, Antiobesity Agents, and Bariatric Surgery on Serological Markers of Inflammation in Obese Patients
Authors: Tziomalos Konstantinos , Dimitroula Hariklia V. , Katsiki Niki , Savopoulos Christos , Hatzitolios Apostolos I.
Published: March 2010

Overweight and obesity are highly prevalent in developed countries and are also becoming more frequent in the developing world. Overweight and obese patients have elevated levels of several inflammatory markers and this inflammatory state might contribute to their increased vascular risk. We summarize the effects of lifestyle changes, antiobesity agents, and bariatric surgery on serological inflammatory markers in overweight and obese patients. Most studies showed a decrease in inflammation with all 3 interventions. However, it remains to be established whether the decrease in inflammatory markers induced by lifestyle changes or (where indicated) with antiobesity agents or bariatric surgery will translate into reduced vascular morbidity and mortality in overweight and obese patients.