bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Magnetic Domain-Wall Racetrack Memory
Authors: Parkin Stuart S. P. , Hayashi Masamitsu , Thomas Luc
Published: April 2008

Recent developments in the controlled movement of domain walls in magnetic nanowires by short pulses of spin-polarized current give promise of a nonvolatile memory device with the high performance and reliability of conventional solid-state memory but at the low cost of conventional magnetic disk drive storage. The racetrack memory described in this review comprises an array of magnetic nanowires arranged horizontally or vertically on a silicon chip. Individual spintronic reading and writing nanodevices are used to modify or read a train of ∼10 to 100 domain walls, which store a series of data bits in each nanowire. This racetrack memory is an example of the move toward innately three-dimensional microelectronic devices.
An Agonist of Toll-Like Receptor 5 Has Radioprotective Activity in Mouse and Primate Models
Authors: Burdelya Lyudmila G. , Krivokrysenko Vadim I. , Tallant Thomas C. , Strom Evguenia , Gleiberman Anatoly S. , Gupta Damodar , Kurnasov Oleg V. , Fort Farrel L. , Osterman Andrei L. , DiDonato Joseph A. , Feinstein Elena , Gudkov Andrei V.
Published: April 2008

The toxicity of ionizing radiation is associated with massive apoptosis in radiosensitive organs. Here, we investigate whether a drug that activates a signaling mechanism used by tumor cells to suppress apoptosis can protect healthy cells from the harmful effects of radiation. We studied CBLB502, a polypeptide drug derived from
Salmonella
flagellin that binds to Toll-like receptor 5 (TLR5) and activates nuclear factor–κB signaling. A single injection of CBLB502 before lethal total-body irradiation protected mice from both gastrointestinal and hematopoietic acute radiation syndromes and resulted in improved survival. CBLB502 injected after irradiation also enhanced survival, but at lower radiation doses. It is noteworthy that the drug did not decrease tumor radiosensitivity in mouse models. CBLB502 also showed radioprotective activity in lethally irradiated rhesus monkeys. Thus, TLR5 agonists could potentially improve the therapeutic index of cancer radiotherapy and serve as biological protectants in radiation emergencies.
Differential Immune Responses of Red Deer (
Cervus elaphus
) following Experimental Challenge with
Mycobacterium avium
subsp.
paratuberculosis
Authors: Robinson Mark , O'Brien Rory , Mackintosh Colin , Griffin Frank
Published: April 2008

Immune responses of red deer (
Cervus elaphus
) that presented with different levels of paucibacillary pathology were profiled to detail immune changes during the progression of Johne's disease. Immune responses were monitored using an immunoglobulin G1 (IgG1) antibody enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), a gamma interferon (IFN-γ) ELISA, and flow cytometry. Animals in the study were divided into outcome groups postmortem according to disease severity. All animals mounted IgG1 antibody and IFN-γ responses to both the vaccination and experimental challenges. The
Mycobacterium avium
subsp.
paratuberculosis
-specific IgG1 antibody responses in the challenged group showed marked differences between infected and severely diseased animals. Slightly higher IFN-γ responses were seen in infected animals compared with severely diseased animals. No significant changes were seen in the phenotype of lymphocyte populations investigated. Vaccination with killed
M. avium
subsp.
paratuberculosis
in mineral oil adjuvant reduced the level of severe disease; however, it obscured immunological differences between the infected and severely diseased groups. This suggests protection is not exclusively mediated via the presence of a type 1 response and, furthermore, the presence of a type 2 response is compatible with protection. These profiles provide information on the different immune processes in Johne's disease progression.
Efficient Testing of Large Pools of
Mycobacterium tuberculosis
RD1 Peptides and Identification of Major Antigens and Immunodominant Peptides Recognized by Human Th1 Cells
Authors: Mustafa Abu S. , Al-Attiyah Raja'a , Hanif Sumaila N. M. , Shaban Fatema A.
Published: April 2008

Comparative genomics has identified several regions of difference (RDs) of
Mycobacterium tuberculosis
that are deleted or absent in
Mycobacterium bovis
BCG vaccines. To determine their relevance for diagnostic and vaccine applications, it is imperative that efficient methods are developed to test the encoded proteins for immunological reactivity. In this study, we have used 220 synthetic peptides covering sequences of 12 open reading frames (ORFs) of RD1 and tested them as a single pool (RD1
pool
) with peripheral blood mononuclear cells obtained from pulmonary tuberculosis (TB) patients and
M. bovis
BCG-vaccinated healthy subjects in Th1 cell assays that measure antigen-induced proliferation and IFN-γ secretion. The results showed that RD1
pool
induced strong responses in both TB patients and BCG-vaccinated healthy subjects. The subsequent testing of peptide pools of individual ORFs revealed that all ORFs induced positive responses in a portion of donors, but PPE68, CFP10, and ESAT6 induced strong responses in TB patients and PPE68 induced strong responses in BCG-vaccinated healthy subjects. In addition, HLA-DR and -DQ typing of donors and HLA-DR binding prediction analysis of proteins suggested HLA-promiscuous presentation of PPE68, CFP10, and ESAT6. Further testing of individual peptides showed that a single peptide of PPE68 (121-VLTATNFFGINTIPIALTEMDYFIR-145) was immunodominant. The search for sequence homology revealed that a part of this peptide, 124-ATNFFGINTIPIAL-137, was present in several PPE family proteins of
M. tuberculosis
and
M. bovis
BCG vaccines. Further experiments limited the promiscuous and immunodominant epitope region to the 10-amino-acid cross-reactive sequence 127-FFGINTIPIA-136.
Clinical Phase 1 Testing of the Safety and Immunogenicity of an Epitope-Based DNA Vaccine in Human Immunodeficiency Virus Type 1-Infected Subjects Receiving Highly Active Antiretroviral Therapy
Authors: Wilson Cara C. , Newman Mark J. , Livingston Brian D. , MaWhinney Samantha , Forster Jeri E. , Scott Jim , Schooley Robert T. , Benson Constance A.
Published: April 2008

A DNA vaccine encoding sequence-conserved human immunodeficiency virus type 1 (HIV-1)-derived cytotoxic T-lymphocyte (CTL) epitopes from multiple HIV-1 gene products (designated EP HIV-1090) was evaluated in a placebo-controlled, dose escalation phase 1 clinical trial of HIV-1-infected subjects receiving potent combination antiretroviral therapy. Patients received four intramuscular immunizations with EP HIV-1090 over a 4-month period at one of four doses (0.5, 1.0, 2.0, or 4.0 mg) or received a placebo. The vaccine was determined to be safe and well tolerated at all doses tested. CTL responses were measured from cryopreserved peripheral blood mononuclear cells using gamma interferon enzyme-linked immunospot assays, with and without in vitro peptide stimulation (IVS). Responses to one or more vaccine epitopes were detected throughout the course of vaccination in 37.5% (12/32) and 47% (15/32) of vaccine recipients measured without and with IVS, respectively, indicating possible vaccine-induced priming of epitope-specific T cells. However, differences in rates of response to HIV-1 epitopes between vaccine and placebo recipients did not achieve statistical significance. The HIV-1 epitope-specific CTL responses measured in the peripheral blood after vaccination were often low level and short-lived, and therefore, alternative immunization schedules, routes of delivery, or vaccine formulations may be required to increase vaccine potency.
Evaluation of Three Automated Nucleic Acid Amplification Systems for Detection of
Chlamydia trachomatis
and
Neisseria gonorrhoeae
in First-Void Urine Specimens
Authors: Levett P. N. , Brandt K. , Olenius K. , Brown C. , Montgomery K. , Horsman G. B.
Published: April 2008

A total of 500 first-void urine specimens were tested for the presence of
Chlamydia trachomatis
and
Neisseria gonorrhoeae
nucleic acids using ProbeTec ET reagents on a Viper platform (BD Diagnostics, Mississauga, Ontario, Canada), Aptima Combo 2 reagents on a Tigris platform (Gen-Probe, Inc., San Diego, CA), and Abbott RealTime CT/NG reagents on an
m
2000 platform (Abbott Molecular Diagnostics, Des Plaines, IL). The performance of the three assays for detection of
N. gonorrhoeae
was comparable, but detection of
C. trachomatis
by the three assays showed more variation. All three platforms were suitable for the detection of
C. trachomatis
and
N. gonorrhoeae
, but additional factors, such as maximum daily specimen throughput, are important in evaluating automated systems for
C. trachomatis
and
N. gonorrhoeae
detection in high-volume laboratories.
Comparison of Immunoblotting, Calculation of the Goldmann-Witmer Coefficient, and Real-Time PCR Using Aqueous Humor Samples for Diagnosis of Ocular Toxoplasmosis
Authors: Fekkar A. , Bodaghi B. , Touafek F. , Le Hoang P. , Mazier D. , Paris L.
Published: April 2008

We compared three biological methods for the diagnosis of ocular toxoplasmosis (OT). Paired aqueous humor and serum samples from 34 patients with OT and from 76 patients with other ocular disorders were analyzed by three methods: immunoblotting or Western blotting (WB), the calculation of the Goldmann-Witmer coefficient (GWC), and PCR. WB and GWC each revealed the intraocular production of specific anti-
Toxoplasma
immunoglobulin G in 81% of samples (30 of 37). PCR detected toxoplasmic DNA in 38% of samples (13 of 34). Nine of the 13 PCR-positive patients were immunocompetent. Combining the techniques significantly improved the diagnostic sensitivity, to 92% for the GWC-WB combination, 90% for the WB-PCR combination, and 93% for the GWC-PCR combination. The combination of all three techniques improved the sensitivity to 97%.
Field Evaluation of a Rapid Immunochromatographic Assay for Detection of
Trypanosoma cruzi
Infection by Use of Whole Blood
Authors: Roddy Paul , Goiri Javier , Flevaud Laurence , Palma Pedro Pablo , Morote Silvia , Lima Nines , Villa Luis , Torrico Faustino , Albajar-Viñas Pedro
Published: April 2008

Laboratory and clinical diagnostic classification of seropositive individuals, followed by treatment and supportive therapy, is an established component of Chagas' disease control in areas where this disease is endemic. However, most Chagas' disease patients live in remote areas where neither equipped laboratories nor skilled human resources are widely available. Employing a rapid diagnostic test (RDT), when using whole blood samples, is the best option for Chagas' disease control. A high sensitivity and specificity for the Chagas Stat-Pak RDT (Chembio Diagnostic Systems, Inc., Medford, NY) has been reported for assays using serum and plasma, but its validity for the detection of antibodies to
Trypanosoma cruzi
infection in whole blood is unknown. This cross-sectional study measured the sensitivity and specificity of the Chagas Stat-Pak with whole blood, using conventional serological assays for comparison. The interobserver reliability in the interpretation of the Chagas Stat-Pak results and “ease-of-use” criterion needed to perform the Chagas Stat-Pak and conventional assays were also measured. The Chagas Stat-Pak yielded a high specificity (99.0%, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 98.4 to 99.4%) but a relatively low sensitivity (93.4%, 95% CI = 87.4 to 97.1%). The interobserver reliability was excellent (kappa [
n
= 1,913] = 0.999,
P
< 0.0001), and the quantified ease-of-use criterion suggested that the RDT is simple to perform. Despite the attributes of the Chagas Stat-Pak, it is not an ideal diagnostic test for the population investigated in the present study due to its relatively low sensitivity and high cost. The RDT manufacturer is called upon to improve the test if the international community hopes to make progress in controlling Chagas infections in areas where this disease is endemic.
Evaluation of Versant Hepatitis C Virus Genotype Assay (LiPA) 2.0
Authors: Verbeeck Jannick , Stanley Mark J. , Shieh Jen , Celis Linda , Huyck Els , Wollants Elke , Morimoto Judy , Farrior Alice , Sablon Erwin , Jankowski-Hennig Margaret , Schaper Carl , Johnson Pamela , Van Ranst Marc , Van Brussel Marianne
Published: April 2008

Hepatitis C virus (HCV) genotyping is a tool used to optimize antiviral treatment regimens. The newly developed Versant HCV genotype assay (LiPA) 2.0 uses sequence information from both the 5′ untranslated region and the core region, allowing distinction between HCV genotype 1 and subtypes c to l of genotype 6 and between subtypes a and b of genotype 1. HCV-positive samples were genotyped manually using the Versant HCV genotype assay (LiPA) 2.0 system according to the manufacturer's instructions. For the comparison study, Versant HCV genotype assay (LiPA) 1.0 was used. In this study, 99.7% of the samples could be amplified, the genotype of 96.0% of samples could be determined, and the agreement with the reference method was 99.4% when a genotype was determined. The reproducibility study showed no significant differences in performance across sites (
P
= 0.43) or across lots (
P
= 0.88). In the comparison study, 13 samples that were uninterpretable or incorrectly genotyped with Versant HCV genotype assay (LiPA) 1.0 were correctly genotyped by Versant HCV genotype assay (LiPA) 2.0. Versant HCV genotype assay (LiPA) 2.0 is a sensitive, accurate, and reliable assay for HCV genotyping. The inclusion of the core region probes in Versant HCV genotype assay (LiPA) 2.0 results in a genotyping success rate higher than that of the current Versant HCV genotype assay (LiPA) 1.0.
Characterization of Neutralizing Antibody Responses Elicited by Clade A Envelope Immunogens Derived from Early Transmitted Viruses
Authors: Kraft Zane , Strouss Katharine , Sutton William F. , Cleveland Brad , Tso For Yue , Polacino Patricia , Overbaugh Julie , Hu Shiu-Lok , Stamatatos Leonidas
Published: April 2008

The vast majority of studies with candidate immunogens based on the human immunodeficiency virus envelope (Env) have been conducted with Env proteins derived from clade B viruses isolated during chronic infection. Whether non-clade B Env protein immunogens will elicit antibodies with epitope specificities that are similar to those of antibodies elicited by clade B Envs and whether the antibodies elicited by Envs derived from early transmitted viruses will be similar to those elicited by Envs derived from viruses isolated during chronic infection are currently unknown. Here we performed immunizations with four clade A Envs, cloned directly from the peripheral blood of infected individuals during acute infection, which differed in lengths and extents of glycosylation. The antibody responses elicited by these four Envs were compared to each other and to those elicited by a well-characterized clade B Env immunogen derived from the SF162 virus, which was isolated during chronic infection. Only one clade A Env, the one with the fewer glycosylation sites, elicited homologous neutralizing antibodies (NAbs); these did not target the V1, V2, or V3 regions. In contrast, all four clade A Envs elicited anti-V3 NAbs against “easy-to-neutralize” clade B and clade A isolates, irrespective of the variable region length and extent of glycosylation of the Env used as an immunogen. These anti-V3 NAbs did not access their epitopes on homologous and heterologous clade A, or B, neutralization-resistant viruses. The length and extent of glycosylation of the variable regions on the clade A Env immunogens tested did not affect the breadth of the elicited NAbs. Our data also indicate that the development of cross-reactive NAbs against clade A viruses faces similar hurdles to the development of cross-reactive anti-clade B NAbs.
E Protein Domain III Determinants of Yellow Fever Virus 17D Vaccine Strain Enhance Binding to Glycosaminoglycans, Impede Virus Spread, and Attenuate Virulence
Authors: Lee Eva , Lobigs Mario
Published: April 2008

The yellow fever virus (YFV) 17D strain is one of the most effective live vaccines for human use, but the in vivo mechanisms for virulence attenuation of the vaccine and the corresponding molecular determinants remain elusive. The vaccine differs phenotypically from wild-type YFV by the loss of viscerotropism, despite replicative fitness in cell culture, and genetically by 20 amino acid changes predominantly located in the envelope (E) protein. We show that three residues in E protein domain III inhibit spread of 17D in extraneural tissues and attenuate virulence in type I/II interferon-deficient mice. One of these residues (Arg380) is a dominant glycosaminoglycan-binding determinant, which mainly accounts for more rapid in vivo clearance of 17D from the bloodstream in comparison to 17D-derived variants with wild-type-like E protein. While other mutations will account for loss of neurotropism and phenotypic stability, the described impact of E protein domain III changes on virus dissemination and virulence is the first rational explanation for the safety of the 17D vaccine in humans.
Silencing of Rotavirus NSP4 or VP7 Expression Reduces Alterations in Ca
2+
Homeostasis Induced by Infection of Cultured Cells
Authors: Zambrano José Luis , Díaz Yuleima , Peña Franshelle , Vizzi Esmeralda , Ruiz Marie-Christine , Michelangeli Fabián , Liprandi Ferdinando , Ludert Juan Ernesto
Published: April 2008

Rotavirus infection of cells in culture induces major changes in Ca
2+
homeostasis. These changes include increases in plasma membrane Ca
2+
permeability, cytosolic Ca
2+
concentration, and total cell Ca
2+
content and a reduction in the amount of Ca
2+
released from intracellular pools sensitive to agonists. Various lines of evidence suggest that the nonstructural glycoprotein NSP4 and possibly the major outer capsid glycoprotein VP7 are responsible for these effects. In order to evaluate the functional roles of NSP4 and other rotavirus proteins in the changes in Ca
2+
homeostasis observed in infected cells, the expressions of NSP4, VP7, and VP4 were silenced using the short interfering RNA (siRNA) technique. The transfection of specific siRNAs resulted in a strong and specific reduction of the expression of NSP4, VP7, and VP4 and decreased the yield of new viral progeny by more than 90%. Using fura-2 loaded cells, we observed that knocking down the expression of NSP4 totally prevented the increase in Ca
2+
permeability of the plasma membrane and cytosolic Ca
2+
concentration measured in infected cells. A reduction in the levels of VP7 expression partially reduced the effect of infection on plasma membrane Ca
2+
permeability and Ca
2+
pools released by agonist (ATP). In addition, the increase of total Ca
2+
content (as measured by
45
Ca
2+
uptake) observed in infected cells was reduced to the levels in mock-infected cells when NSP4 and VP7 were silenced. Finally, when the expression of VP4 was silenced, none of the disturbances of Ca
2+
homeostasis caused by rotaviruses in infected cells were affected. These data altogether indicate that NSP4 is the main protein responsible for the changes in Ca
2+
homeostasis observed in rotavirus-infected cultured cells. Nevertheless, VP7 may contribute to these effects.
The use of prolotherapy in the sacroiliac joint
Authors: Cusi M , Saunders J , Hungerford B , Wisbey-Roth T , Lucas P , Wilson S
Published: April 2008

Objective

In this study the effectiveness of prolotherapy in the treatment of deficient load transfer of the sacroiliac joint (SIJ) was determined.

Design

A prospective descriptive study.

Setting

Authors’ private practice.

Participants

25 patients who consented to treatment and attended for at least one follow-up visit and assessment.

Study period

From April 2004 to July 2007.

Intervention

Three injections of hypertonic dextrose solution into the dorsal interosseous ligament of the affected SIJ, under CT control, 6 weeks apart.

Main outcome measures

Quebec Back Pain Disability Scale, Roland–Morris 24, Roland–Morris 24 Multiform questionnaires and clinical examination by two authors independently.

Results

All patients included in this study attended at least one follow-up visit at 3, 12 or 24 months.. The number of patients at follow-up decreased at 12 and 24 months. Functional questionnaires demonstrated significant improvements for those followed-up at 3, 12 and 24 months (p<0.05). Clinical scores showed significant improvement from commencement to 3, 12 and 24 months (p<0.001).

Conclusions

This descriptive study of prolotherapy in private practice has shown positive clinical outcomes for the 76% of patients who attended the 3-month follow-up visit (76% at 12 months and 32% at 24 months). Similar results were found in the questionnaires (Quebec Back Pain Disability Scale, Roland–Morris 24 and Roland–Morris 24 Multiform questionnaires) at 3, 12 and 24 months.
Mobilisation of mesenchymal cells in cardiac patients: is intense exercise necessary?: Figure 1
Authors: Lucia A , De La Rosa A , Silván M Avila , López-Mojares L M , Boraita A , Pérez M , Foster C , García-Castro J , Ramirez M
Published: April 2008

Circulating mesenchymal cells (cMCs) have a potential for regenerating damaged tissue, e.g., ischaemic myocardium. In patients (age range: 53–76 years) with stable coronary artery disease cMCs were determined before and after dynamic exercise of moderate (< respiratory compensation threshold (RCT)) (n = 9 patients) or high intensity (>RCT) (n = 11). Only high-intensity exercise (i.e., provoking signs of myocardial ischaemia in 3 patients and ventricular extrasystoles in another) induced a significant increase in cMCs (p = 0.009). These results support the hypothesis that intense exercise (near or at the point of myocardial ischaemia) is a potent stimulus for MC mobilisation.
Comparison of theoretical and empirically determined service lives for wall ties in brick veneer steel stud wall systemsThis article is one of a selection of papers published in this Special Issue on Masonry.
Authors: Hagel Mark. D. , Lissel Shelley L. , Sturgeon Gary R.
Published: April 2008

The issue regarding the corrosion of steel ties connecting brick veneer to its structural backing is well known and well documented. However, none of the research to date has developed field-calibrated corrosion rate and service life models specific to wall ties in brick veneer steel stud (BVSS) wall systems. In this paper, corrosion rate and service life estimates produced by two models generated by the International Organization for Standardization (ISO) were compared with the empirically determined corrosion rates (CRs) and service lives of nine zinc galvanized tie specimens inspected at five buildings in four different Canadian cities. The best estimate, obtained using actual environmental data, was found to be the ISOCORRAG formula. However, the maximum difference between predicted and actual service life was still significant, indicating that a better understanding of the mechanics governing the corrosion of a tie embedded in mortar is still needed.
FAST FACTORIZATION BY SIMILARITY OF FUZZY CONCEPT LATTICES WITH HEDGES
Authors: BĚLOHLÁVEK RADIM , OUTRATA JAN , VYCHODIL VILEM
Published: April 2008

The paper presents results on factorization by similarity of fuzzy concept lattices with hedges. A fuzzy concept lattice is a hierarchically ordered collection of clusters extracted from tabular data. The basic idea of factorization by similarity is to have, instead of a possibly large original fuzzy concept lattice, its factor lattice. The factor lattice contains less clusters than the original concept lattice but, at the same time, represents a reasonable approximation of the original concept lattice and provides us with a granular view on the original concept lattice. The factor lattice results by factorization of the original fuzzy concept lattice by a similarity relation. The similarity relation is specified by a user by means of a single parameter, called a similarity threshold. Smaller similarity thresholds lead to smaller factor lattices, i.e. to more comprehensible but less accurate approximations of the original concept lattice. Therefore, factorization by similarity provides a trade-off between comprehensibility and precision.

We first describe the notion of factorization. Second, we present a way to compute the factor lattice directly from input data, i.e. without the need to compute the possibly large original concept lattice. Third, we provide an illustrative example to demonstrate our method.
Serotonin Transduction Cascades Mediate Variable Changes in Pyloric Network Cycle Frequency in Response to the Same Modulatory Challenge
Authors: Spitzer Nadja , Cymbalyuk Gennady , Zhang Hongmei , Edwards Donald H. , Baro Deborah J.
Published: April 2008

A fundamental question in systems biology addresses the issue of how flexibility is built into modulatory networks such that they can produce context-dependent responses. Here we examine flexibility in the serotonin (5-HT) response system that modulates the cycle frequency (cf) of a rhythmic motor output. We found that depending on the preparation, the same 5-min bath application of 5-HT to the pyloric network of the California spiny lobster, Panulirus interruptus, could produce a significant increase, decrease, or no change in steady-state cf relative to baseline. Interestingly, the mean circuit output was not significantly different among preparations prior to 5-HT application. We developed pharmacological tools to examine the preparation-to-preparation variability in the components of the 5-HT response system. We found that the 5-HT response system consisted of at least three separable components: a 5-HT2βPan-like component mediated a rapid decrease followed by a sustained increase in cf; a 5-HT1αPan-like component produced a small and usually gradual increase in cf; at least one other component associated with an unknown receptor mediated a sustained decrease in cf. The magnitude of the change in cf produced by each component was highly variable, so that when summed they could produce either a net increase, decrease, or no change in cf depending on the preparation. Overall, our research demonstrates that the balance of opposing components of the 5-HT response system determines the direction and magnitude of 5-HT–induced change in steady-state cf relative to baseline.
2‐Norm‐Based Iterative Design of Filterbank Transceivers: A Control Perspective
Authors: Shi Yang , Chen Tongwen
Published: April 2008

This paper considers design of filterbank‐based transceivers. A composite error criterion is proposed
to capture all the three traditional distortions. Incorporating noise attenuation and filter bandlimiting
properties into this error criterion, an optimal design procedure is developed and applied to a transceiver
design example, yielding an FIR transceiver that has good frequency‐selective properties and is close to
perfect reconstruction. As a least‐squares solution is given in closed form in each iteration, the algorithm
is easy to implement.
Effect of a High Magnetic Field on Eutectoid Point Shift and Texture Evolution in 0.81C-Fe Steel
Authors: Zhang Y.D. , Esling C. , Calcagnotto M. , Gong M.L. , Klein H. , Zhao X. , Zuo L.
Published: April 2008

A 12 T magnetic field has been applied to the annealing process of a 0.81%C-Fe (wt.%). It is found that the magnetic field shifts the eutectoid carbon content from 0.77 wt.% to 0.83 wt.%. The statistical thermodynamic calculations were performed to calculate the eutectoid temperature change by the magnetic field. Calculation shows that the increase of the eutectoid temperature by a 12 T field is 29∘C. Synchrotron radiation measurements were performed to measure the pole figures of the samples and were analyzed by MAUD to determine the bulk texture of the ferrite phase In the field-treated and non field-treated samples. Results show that although there is no specific preferred orientation appearing by applying the magnetic field, slight enhancement of (001) fiber component occurs in both the sample normal direction (ND) and the transverse direction (TD). This effect might be related to the magnetic dipolar interaction between Fe atoms in the transverse field direction.
RMS Current of a Photovoltaic Generator in Grid‐Connected PV Systems: Definition and Application
Authors: Pérez P. J. , Almonacid G. , Aguilera J. , de la Casa J.
Published: April 2008

This paper includes a definition of a new and original concept in the photovoltaic field, RMS current of a photovoltaic generator for grid‐connected systems. The RMS current is very useful for calculating energy losses in cables used in a PV generator. As well, a current factor has been defined in order to simplify RMS current calculation. This factor provides an immediate (quick and easy) calculation method for the RMS current that does not depend on the case particular conditions (orientation, location, etc.). RMS current and current factor values have been calculated for different locations and modules.
Statistical Molecular Dynamics Study of (111) and (100) Ni Nanocontacts: Evidences of Pentagonal Nanowires
Authors: García-Mochales P. , Paredes R. , Peláez S. , Serena P. A.
Published: April 2008

We present molecular dynamics calculations on the evolution of Ni nanowires stretched along
the (111) and (100) directions, and at two different temperatures. Using a methodology similar
to that required to build experimental conductance histograms, we construct minimum crosssection
histograms H(Sm). These histograms are useful to understand the type of favorable atomic configurations appearing during the nanowire breakage. We have found that minimum crosssection
histograms obtained for (111) and (100) stretching directions are rather different. When
the nanowire is stretched along the (111) direction, monomer and dimer‐like configurations appear,
giving rise to well‐defined peaks in H(Sm). On the contrary, (100) nanowire stretching presents a
different breaking pattern. In particular, we have found, with high probability, the formation of
staggered pentagonal nanowires, as it has been reported for other metallic species.
Development of Photocatalytic Active TiO2 Surfaces by Thermal Spraying of Nanopowders
Authors: Toma Filofteia-Laura , Bertrand Ghislaine , Klein Didier , Meunier Cathy , Begin Sylvie
Published: April 2008

Titanium dioxide is a very useful photocatalyst for the decomposition and diminution of environmental water and air pollutants. In such applications, it can be used as slurry or as immobilized coating obtained by different deposition methods. The studies performed in the last years showed that thermal spraying could be employed to elaborate TiO2 coatings with high performance for the decomposition of organic compounds.
This manuscript presents a comparative study on the microstructure and photocatalytic performance of titania coatings obtained by different thermal spray techniques: atmospheric plasma spraying (APS), suspension plasma spraying (SPS) and high‐velocity oxygen fuel spray process (HVOF). Different titania powders and suspensions were used to study the influence of the feedstock materials on the coating characteristics. The deposits were mainly characterised by SEM and X‐ray diffraction. The photocatalytic performance was evaluated from the removal of nitrogen oxides.
The experimental results showed that a drastic reduction of the pollutant concentration was obtained in presence of coatings elaborated by suspension plasma spraying. TiO2 coatings resulting from the spraying of agglomerated powder presentd less efficiency. That was mainly explained by the significant phase transformation from anatase to rutile that occurred in the enthalpic source during the spray processes.
Regionalized Lunar South Pole Surface Navigation System Analysis
Authors: Welch Bryan W.
Published: April 2008

Apollo missions utilized Earth‐based assets for navigation, since the landings took place at lunar locations in constant view from the Earth. The new exploration campaign to the lunar South Pole region will have limited Earth visibility, but the extent to which a navigation system comprised solely of Earth‐based tracking stations will provide adequate navigation solutions in this region is unknown. This article presents a dilution‐of‐precision‐(DoP‐) based stationary surface navigation analysis of the performance of multiple lunar satellite constellations, Earth‐based deep space network assets, and combinations thereof. Results show that kinematic and integrated solutions cannot be provided by the Earth‐based deep space network stations. Also, the surface stationary navigation system needs to be operated as a two‐way navigation system, or as a one‐way navigation system with local terrain information, while integrating the position solution over a short duration of time with navigation signals being provided by a lunar satellite constellation.
AGEs and Glucose Levels Modulate Type I and III Procollagen mRNA Synthesis in Dermal Fibroblasts Cells Culture
Authors: Andreea Serban Iren , Marieta Costache , Anca Dinischiotu
Published: April 2008

In the dermis, fibroblasts play an important role in the turnover of the dermal extracellular matrix. Collagen I and III, the most important dermal proteins of the extracellular matrix, are progressively altered during ageing and diabetes. For mimicking diabetic conditions, the cultured human dermal fibroblasts were incubated with increasing amounts of AGE‐modified BSA andD‐glucose for 24 hours. The expression of procollagenα2(I) and procollagenα1(III) mRNA was analyzed by quantitative real‐time PCR. Our data revealed that the treatment of fibroblasts with AGE‐modified BSA upregulated the expression of procollagenα2(I) and procollagenα1(III) mRNA in a dose‐dependent manner. High glucose levels mildly induced a profibrogenic pattern, increasing the procollagenα2(I) mRNA expression whereas there was a downregulation tendency of procollagenα1(III) mRNA.
Iterative Channel‐Tracking Techniques for 5.9 GHz DSRC Applications
Authors: Abdulhamid Harb , Tepe Kemal E. , Abdel-Raheem Esam
Published: April 2008

This letter proposes a novel channel‐tracking scheme to improve the performance of the dedicated short‐range communication (DSRC) systems affected by rapid fluctuations in channel envelopes. The proposed technique is called “iterative (turbo) compensation.” It utilizes additional information extracted from the receivers output to further improve the accuracy of the channel estimation. Simulation results show that the iterative scheme performs better than noniterative techniques in higher constellation modulations at high vehicle speeds.
A Note on the Multiple Twisted Carlitz′s Type q‐Bernoulli Polynomials
Authors: Jang Lee-Chae , Ryoo Cheon-Seoung
Published: April 2008

We give the twisted Carlitz′s type q‐Bernoulli polynomials and numbers associated with
p‐adic q‐inetgrals and
discuss their properties. Furthermore, we define the multiple twisted Carlitz′s type
q‐Bernoulli polynomials and numbers and obtain the distribution
relation for them.
Fast Parallel Molecular Algorithms for DNA‐Based Computation: Solving the Elliptic Curve Discrete Logarithm Problem over GF(2n)
Authors: Li Kenli , Zou Shuting , Xv Jin
Published: April 2008

Elliptic curve cryptographic algorithms convert input
data to unrecognizable encryption and the unrecognizable data back
again into its original decrypted form. The security of this form of
encryption hinges on the enormous difficulty that is required to
solve the elliptic curve discrete logarithm problem (ECDLP),
especially over GF(2n), n ∈ Z+. This paper
describes an effective method to find solutions to the ECDLP by
means of a molecular computer. We propose that this research
accomplishment would represent a breakthrough for applied biological
computation and this paper demonstrates that in principle this is
possible. Three DNA‐based algorithms: a parallel adder, a parallel
multiplier, and a parallel inverse over GF(2n) are described.
The biological operation time of all of these algorithms is
polynomial with respect to n. Considering this analysis,
cryptography using a public key might be less secure. In this
respect, a principal contribution of this paper is to provide
enhanced evidence of the potential of molecular computing to tackle
such ambitious computations.
Genetic Algorithm for Finding Minimal Cost Light Forest of Multicast Routing on WDM Networks
Authors: Din Der-Rong
Published: April 2008

Wavelength division multiplexing (WDM) is an important technique to make use of
the large amount of bandwidth in optical fibers to meet the bandwidth requirements of
applications. Multicast is the transmission of information from one source to multiple
destinations simultaneously. Given a multicast request in a WDM network, the goal is
to find a set of light trees, the assigned wavelengths of light trees, and construct a light
forest. In this paper, the minimal cost multicast routing problem (MCMRP) on WDM
networks with tap-and-continue (TaC) nodes is defined and studied. A new cost model
which consists of the wavelength usage and communication cost is defined. The objective
is to minimize the sum of the cost of used wavelengths and the communication cost of
the light forest. Specifically, the formulation for the WDM multicast routing problem is
given. Because the MCMRP is NP‐hard, two genetic algorithms (GAs) are proposed to
solve this problem. In the proposed GAs, a path-oriented encoding chromosome is used
to represent the routing paths. These routing paths are used to construct source‐based
light forests to represent a feasible solution to the multicast request. Moreover, to speed
up the convergence of GAs, a farthest-first greedy heuristic algorithm is proposed and
used to generate one of the initial chromosomes. Simulation results demonstrate that the
proposed GAs can run efficiently.
New Data concerning the Epidemiology of Hepatitis B Virus Infection in Greece
Authors: Pantazis Konstantinos D. , Elefsiniotis Ioannis S. , Brokalaki Hero
Published: April 2008

There is an obvious, significant, and diachronic reduction ofthe prevalence of HBV infectionin Greece, concerning the general population as well as some traditionally high-risk groups, mainly as a result of constant informing and the widespread initiation of preventive and prophylactic measures, as well as the improvement of health care services. Nevertheless, there are special groups and populations (economical refugees, religious minorities, HIV-positive patients, abroad pregnant women, prostitutes, etc.) who represent sacs of high HBV endemicity and need epidemiological supervision and intervention, in order to limit the spread of the infection and to further improve the existing epidemiological data.
Joint L‐/C‐Band Code and Carrier Phase Linear Combinations for Galileo
Authors: Henkel Patrick , Günther Christoph
Published: April 2008

Linear code combinations have been considered for suppressing the ionospheric error. In the L‐band, this leads to an increased noise floor. In a combined L‐ and C‐band (5010–5030 MHz) approach, the ionosphere can be eliminated and the noise floor reduced at the same time. Furthermore, combinations that involve both code‐ and carrier‐phase measurements are considered. A new L‐band code‐carrier combination with a wavelength of 3.215 meters and a noise level of 3.92 centimeters is found.
The double difference integer ambiguities of this combination can be resolved by extending the system of equations with an ionosphere‐free L‐/C‐band code combination. The probability of wrong fixing is reduced by several orders of magnitude when C‐band measurements are included. Carrier smoothing can be used to further reduce the residual variance of the solution. The standard deviation is reduced by a factor 7.7 if C‐band measurements are taken into account. These initial findings suggest that the combined use of L‐ and C‐band measurements, as well as the combined code and phase processing are an attractive option for precise positioning.
Strategic Team AI Path Plans: Probabilistic Pathfinding
Authors: John Tng C. H. , Prakash Edmond C. , Chaudhari Narendra S.
Published: April 2008

This paper proposes a novel method to generate strategic
team AI pathfinding plans for computer games and simulations
using probabilistic pathfinding. This method is inspired by
genetic algorithms (Russell and Norvig, 2002), in that, a fitness function is used to
test the quality of the path plans. The method generates
high‐quality path plans by eliminating the low‐quality ones. The
path plans are generated by probabilistic pathfinding, and the
elimination is done by a fitness test of the path plans. This
path plan generation method has the ability to generate
variation or different high‐quality paths, which is desired
for games to increase replay values. This work is an extension
of our earlier work on team AI: probabilistic pathfinding (John et al., 2006).
We explore ways to combine probabilistic pathfinding and
genetic algorithm to create a new method to generate strategic
team AI pathfinding plans.
Monochromosome Transfer and Microarray Analysis Identify a Critical Tumor-Suppressive Region Mapping to Chromosome 13q14 and THSD1 in Esophageal Carcinoma
Authors: Ko Josephine M.Y. , Chan Pui Ling , Yau Wing Lung , Chan Ho Kin , Chan King Chi , Yu Zhuo You , Kwong Fung Mei , Miller Lance D. , Liu Edison T. , Yang Li Chun , Lo Paulisally H.Y. , Stanbridge Eric J. , Tang Johnny C.O. , Srivastava Gopesh , Tsao Sai Wah , Law Simon , Lung Maria L.
Published: April 2008

Loss of chromosome 13q regions in esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) is a frequent event. Monochromosome transfer approaches provide direct functional evidence for tumor suppression by chromosome 13 in SLMT-1, an ESCC cell line, and identify critical regions at 13q12.3, 13q14.11, and 13q14.3. Differential gene expression profiles of three tumor-suppressing microcell hybrids (MCH) and their tumorigenic parental SLMT-1 cell line were revealed by competitive hybridization using 19k cDNA oligonucleotide microarrays. Nine candidate 13q14 tumor-suppressor genes (TSG), including RB1, showed down-regulation in SLMT-1, compared with NE1, an immortalized normal esophageal epithelial cell line; their average gene expression was restored in MCHs compared with SLMT-1. Reverse transcription-PCR validated gene expression levels in MCHs and a panel of ESCC cell lines. Results suggest that the tumor-suppressing effect is not attributed to RB1, but instead likely involves thrombospondin type I domain-containing 1 (THSD1), a novel candidate TSG mapping to 13q14. Quantitative reverse transcription-PCR detected down-regulation of THSD1 expression in 100% of ESCC and other cancer cell lines. Mechanisms for THSD1 silencing in ESCC involved loss of heterozygosity and promoter hypermethylation, as analyzed by methylation-specific PCR and clonal bisulfite sequencing. Transfection of wild-type THSD1 into SLMT-1 resulted in significant reduction of colony-forming ability, hence providing functional evidence for its growth-suppressive activity. These findings suggest that THSD1 is a good candidate TSG. (Mol Cancer Res 2008;6(4):592–603)
Arachidonic Acid–Induced Ca2+ Entry Is Involved in Early Steps of Tumor Angiogenesis
Authors: Pla Alessandra Fiorio , Grange Cristina , Antoniotti Susanna , Tomatis Cristiana , Merlino Annalisa , Bussolati Benedetta , Munaron Luca
Published: April 2008

Growth factor–induced intracellular calcium signals in endothelial cells regulate cytosolic and nuclear events involved in the angiogenic process. Among the intracellular messengers released after proangiogenic stimulation, arachidonic acid (AA) plays a key role and its effects are strictly related to calcium homeostasis and cell proliferation. Here, we studied AA-induced intracellular calcium signals in endothelial cells derived from human breast carcinomas (B-TEC). AA promotes B-TEC proliferation and organization of vessel-like structures in vitro. The effect is directly mediated by the fatty acid without a significant contribution of its metabolites. AA induces Ca2+i signals in the entire capillary-like structure during the early phases of tubulogenesis in vitro. No such responses are detectable in B-TECs organized in more structured tubules. In B-TECs growing in monolayer, AA induces two different signals: a Ca2+i increase due to Ca2+ entry and an inhibition of store-dependent Ca2+ entry induced by thapsigargin or ATP. An inhibitor of Ca2+ entry and angiogenesis, carboxyamidotriazole, significantly and specifically decreases AA-induced B-TEC tubulogenesis, as well as AA-induced Ca2+ signals in B-TECs. We conclude that (a) AA-activated Ca2+ entry is associated with the progression through the early phases of angiogenesis, mainly involving proliferation and tubulogenesis, and it is down-regulated during the reorganization of tumor-derived endothelial cells in capillary-like structures; and (b) inhibition of AA-induced Ca2+ entry may contribute to the antiangiogenic action of carboxyamidotriazole. (Mol Cancer Res 2008;6(4):535–45)
A Different View on DNA Amplifications Indicates Frequent, Highly Complex, and Stable Amplicons on 12q13-21 in Glioma
Authors: Fischer Ulrike , Keller Andreas , Leidinger Petra , Deutscher Stephanie , Heisel Sabrina , Urbschat Steffi , Lenhof Hans-Peter , Meese Eckart
Published: April 2008

To further understand the biological significance of amplifications for glioma development and recurrencies, we characterized amplicon frequency and size in low-grade glioma and amplicon stability in vivo in recurring glioblastoma. We developed a 12q13-21 amplicon–specific genomic microarray and a bioinformatics amplification prediction tool to analyze amplicon frequency, size, and maintenance in 40 glioma samples including 16 glioblastoma, 10 anaplastic astrocytoma, 7 astrocytoma WHO grade 2, and 7 pilocytic astrocytoma. Whereas previous studies reported two amplified subregions, we found a more complex situation with many amplified subregions. Analyzing 40 glioma, we found that all analyzed glioblastoma and the majority of pilocytic astrocytoma, grade 2 astrocytoma, and anaplastic astrocytoma showed at least one amplified subregion, indicating a much higher amplification frequency than previously suggested. Amplifications in low-grade glioma were smaller in size and displayed clearly different distribution patterns than amplifications in glioblastoma. One glioblastoma and its recurrencies revealed an amplified subregion of 5 Mb that was stable for 6 years. Expression analysis of the amplified region revealed 10 overexpressed genes (i.e., KUB3, CTDSP2, CDK4, OS-9, DCTN2, RAB3IP, FRS2, GAS41, MDM2, and RAP1B) that were consistently overexpressed in all cases that carried this amplification. Our data indicate that amplifications on 12q13-21 (a) are more frequent than previously thought and present in low-grade tumors and (b) are maintained as extended regions over long periods of time. (Mol Cancer Res 2008;6(4):576–84)