bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
CRITICAL ACCELERATION AND QUANTUM VACUUM
Authors: RAFELSKI JOHANN , LABUN LANCE
Published: January 2013

Little is known about the physics frontier of strong acceleration; both classical and quantum physics need further development in order to be able to address this newly accessible area of physics. In this lecture we discuss what strong acceleration means, possible experiments using electron-laser collisions, and data available from ultra-relativistic heavy ion collisions. We review the foundations of the current understanding of charged particle dynamics in presence of critical forces and discuss the radiation reaction inconsistency in electromagnetic theory and the apparent relation with quantum physics and strong field particle production phenomena. The role of the quantum vacuum as an inertial reference frame is emphasized, as well as the absence of such a 'Machian' reference frame in the conventional classical limit of quantum field theory.
COLOR GLASS CONDENSATE AND GLASMA
Authors: GELIS FRANÇOIS
Published: January 2013

We review the color glass condensate effective theory, that describes the gluon content of a high energy hadron or nucleus, in the saturation regime. The emphasis is put on applications to high energy heavy ion collisions. After describing initial state factorization, we discuss the glasma phase, that precedes the formation of an equilibrated quark–gluon plasma. We end this review with a presentation of recent developments in the study of the isotropization and thermalization of the quark–gluon plasma.
HYBRID TREFFTZ FORMULATION FOR THIN PLATE ANALYSIS
Authors: REZAIEE-PAJAND MOHAMMAD , YAGHOOBI MAJID , KARKON MOHAMMAD
Published: January 2013

In this paper, two efficient elements are proposed by utilizing hybrid Trefftz method for the analysis of thin plate bending. The triangular element, THT, and the quadrilateral element, QHT, which have 9 and 12 degrees of freedom, respectively. Two independent displacement fields are defined for internal and boundary of the elements. The internal field is selected in such a way that it satisfies the governing equation of the thin plate. Boundary field is dependent on the nodal degrees of freedom via boundary interpolation functions. For deriving boundary interpolation functions, element's edges are assumed to deform like a beam, and the related interpolation functions are used for the boundary fields. The solution accuracies of the famous and hard bench mark problems, such as circular and skew plates, prove the justification of suggested elements. Based on the various test problems, QHT in comparison to other four-sided elements, and THT in comparison to triangular ones, show better results and rapider convergence rate.
ACCUMULATION OF TECHNOLOGICAL INNOVATION CAPABILITY AND COMPETITIVE PERFORMANCE: A QUANTITATIVE STUDY IN CHINESE ELECTRONIC INFORMATION INDUSTRY
Authors: SHAN JUAN , JOLLY DOMINIQUE R.
Published: January 2013

This paper tries to contribute to the emerging research stream on technology creation in China. We investigated whether technology strategies, expressed in terms of different technological innovation capabilities (TICs) have impact on competitive performance of the firms. The research is based on a sample of 215 companies in Chinese electronic information industry. The three sets of TICs — investment, production, and linkages are inspired from the framework of Lall [1992]. We then analyze the impact of these three sets of TICs on firm competitive performance along three distinct lines: innovation performance, sales performance, and product competitiveness. Data reveals a significant positive relationship between the accumulations of the firm's TICs and its competitive performance. However, the results may differ with different technology strategies and different performance indicators. Finally, managerial implications are discussed and a brief conclusion is presented.
THE DYNAMICS OF TECHNOLOGY MANAGEMENT PRACTICES IN LOCAL FIRMS IN FOREIGN PARTNERSHIPS IN THE CONTEXT OF A LESS DEVELOPED ECONOMY
Authors: NAKANDALA DILUPA , TURPIN TIM , SLOAN TERRENCE
Published: January 2013

This paper investigates the technology management practices and the learning processes for the technological development of local firms in foreign partnerships. It initially notes that the existing literature is focused on the technological benefits to local firms in developing economies from multinational corporations rather than explaining the dynamics of the technology management practices used by local firms who engage in foreign partnerships. This paper also notes a gap in the current literature regarding the technology learning process during partnerships from the perspective of the local partner firms in developing economies. The structural analysis of the data from six case studies of joint venture partner firms in Sri Lanka shows that the technology management practices of local firms need to evolve strategically, based on the partnership characteristics, throughout the life of that partnership. It identifies that the level of skills and capabilities within the local firm, the organizational dominance of the foreign partner firm, clarity of roles in the partnership, and the potential technological contribution from the foreign partner firm are all significant determining factors affecting the choice of dynamic technology management practices by local partner firms.
DERIVATIVE INVERSE SERIES RELATIONS AND LAGRANGE EXPANSION FORMULA
Authors: CHU WENCHANG
Published: January 2013

A new pair of inverse series relations is established with the connection coefficients being expressed as higher derivatives of two fixed analytic functions. As applications, new proofs for the Lagrange expansion formulae are presented and Pfaff–Cauchy's generalizations of the Leibniz rule are reviewed.
Role of TRPM2 in cell proliferation and susceptibility to oxidative stress
Authors: Chen Shu-jen , Zhang Wenyi , Tong Qin , Conrad Kathleen , Hirschler-Laszkiewicz Iwona , Bayerl Michael , Kim Jason K. , Cheung Joseph Y. , Miller Barbara A.
Published: January 2013

The transient receptor potential (TRP) channel TRPM2 is an ion channel that modulates cell survival. We report here that full-length (TRPM2-L) and short (TRPM2-S) isoform expression was significantly increased in human neuroblastoma compared with adrenal gland. To differentiate the roles of TRPM2-L and TRPM2-S in cell proliferation and survival, we established neuroblastoma SH-SY5Y cell lines stably expressing either TRPM2 isoform or empty vector. Cells expressing TRPM2-S showed significantly enhanced proliferation, downregulation of phosphatase and tensin homolog (PTEN), and increased protein kinase B (Akt) phosphorylation and cell surface glucose transporter 1 (Glut1) compared with cells expressing TRPM2-L or empty vector. ERK phosphorylation was increased, and forkhead box O 3a (FOXO3a) levels were decreased. Inhibitor studies demonstrated that enhanced proliferation was dependent on phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase/Akt, ERK, and NADPH oxidase activation. On the other hand, TRPM2-S-expressing cells were significantly more susceptible to cell death induced by low H2O2 concentrations (50–100 μM), whereas TRPM2-L-expressing cells were protected. This was associated with a significant increase in FOXO3a, MnSOD (SOD2), and membrane Glut1 in TRPM2-L-expressing cells compared with TRPM2-S expressing cells. We conclude that TRPM2 channels occupy a key role in cell proliferation and survival following oxidative stress in neuroblastoma. Our results suggest that overexpression of TRPM2-S results in increased proliferation through phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase/Akt and ERK pathways, while overexpression of TRPM2-L confers protection against oxidative stress-induced cell death through FOXO3a and SOD. TRPM2 channels may represent a novel future therapeutic target in diseases involving oxidative stress.
Inflammation induced by RAW macrophages suppresses UCP1 mRNA induction via ERK activation in 10T1/2 adipocytes
Authors: Sakamoto Tomoya , Takahashi Nobuyuki , Sawaragi Yuri , Naknukool Supaporn , Yu Rina , Goto Tsuyoshi , Kawada Teruo
Published: January 2013

Recently, it has been demonstrated that uncoupling protein-1 (UCP1)-expressing white adipocytes (brown-like adipocytes) are important for energy expenditure in white adipose tissue (WAT), in which energy expenditure decreases under obese conditions. However, the relationship between the induction of brown-like adipocytes and the decrease in energy expenditure in obese WAT remains to be elucidated. Here, we show that proinflammatory cytokines derived from activated macrophages suppress the induction of UCP1 promoter activity and mRNA expression via an extracellular signal-related kinase (ERK) in white adipocytes. The coculture with RAW264.7 (RAW) macrophages suppressed the induction of UCP1 mRNA expression by isoproterenol (ISO), a typical β-adrenergic receptor agonist, in C3H10T1/2 (10T1/2) adipocytes. A conditioned medium derived from lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-activated macrophages and tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) also suppressed the induction of UCP1 mRNA but did not affect its mRNA stability. By using a luciferase reporter assay system, the conditioned medium and TNF-α also suppressed the activity of the UCP1 promoter and transcriptional factors binding to the cAMP response element (CRE). Importantly, PD98059, an ERK inhibitor, partially abrogated the suppression of UCP1 promoter activation and mRNA induction. These results indicate that ERK is an important factor in the suppression of UCP1 transcriptional activation in the interaction between white adipocytes and activated macrophages. This report suggests a possible mechanism of the UCP1 transcriptional suppression in white adipocytes associated with obese and diabetic conditions.
Hindlimb unloading results in increased predisposition to cardiac arrhythmias and alters left ventricular connexin 43 expression
Authors: Moffitt Julia A. , Henry Matthew K. , Welliver Kathryn C. , Jepson Amanda J. , Garnett Emily R.
Published: January 2013

Hindlimb unloading (HU) is a well-established animal model of cardiovascular deconditioning. Previous data indicate that HU results in cardiac sympathovagal imbalance. It is well established that cardiac sympathovagal imbalance increases the risk for developing cardiac arrhythmias. The cardiac gap junction protein connexin 43 (Cx43) is predominately expressed in the left ventricle (LV) and ensures efficient cell-to-cell electrical coupling. In the current study we wanted to test the hypothesis that HU would result in increased predisposition to cardiac arrhythmias and alter the expression and/or phosphorylation of LV-Cx43. Electrocardiographic data using implantable telemetry were obtained over a 10- to 14-day HU or casted control (CC) condition and in response to a sympathetic stressor using isoproterenol administration and brief restraint. The arrhythmic burden was calculated using a modified scoring system to quantify spontaneous and provoked arrhythmias. In addition, Western blot analysis was used to measure LV-Cx43 expression in lysates probed with antibodies directed against the total and an unphosphorylated form of Cx43 in CC and HU rats. HU resulted in a significantly greater total arrhythmic burden during the sympathetic stressor with significantly more ventricular arrhythmias occurring. In addition, there was increased expression of total LV-Cx43 observed with no difference in the expression of unphosphorylated LV-Cx43. Specifically, the increased expression of LV-Cx43 was consistent with the phosphorylated form. These data taken together indicate that cardiovascular deconditioning produced through HU results in increased predisposition to cardiac arrhythmias and increased expression of phosphorylated LV-Cx43.
Medullary GABAergic mechanisms contribute to electroacupuncture modulation of cardiovascular depressor responses during gastric distention in rats
Authors: Tjen-A-Looi Stephanie C. , Guo Zhi-Ling , Li Min , Longhurst John C.
Published: January 2013

Electroacupuncture (EA) at P5–P6 acupoints overlying the median nerves typically reduces sympathoexcitatory blood pressure (BP) reflex responses in eucapnic rats. Gastric distention in hypercapnic acidotic rats, by activating both vagal and sympathetic afferents, decreases heart rate (HR) and BP through actions in the rostral ventrolateral medulla (rVLM) and nucleus ambiguus (NAmb), leading to sympathetic withdrawal and parasympathetic activation, respectively. A GABAA mechanism in the rVLM mediates the decreased sympathetic outflow. The present study investigated the hypothesis that EA modulates gastric distention-induced hemodynamic depressor and bradycardia responses through nuclei that process parasympathetic and sympathetic outflow. Anesthetized hypercapnic acidotic rats manifested repeatable decreases in BP and HR with gastric distention every 10 min. Bilateral EA at P5–P6 for 30 min reversed the hypotensive response from −26 ± 3 to −6 ± 1 mmHg and the bradycardia from −35 ± 11 to −10 ± 3 beats/min for a period that lasted more than 70 min. Immunohistochemistry and in situ hybridization to detect c-Fos protein and GAD 67 mRNA expression showed that GABAergic caudal ventral lateral medulla (cVLM) neurons were activated by EA. Glutamatergic antagonism of cVLM neurons with kynurenic acid reversed the actions of EA. Gabazine used to block GABAA receptors microinjected into the rVLM or cVLM reversed EA's action on both the reflex depressor and bradycardia responses. EA modulation of the decreased HR was inhibited by microinjection of gabazine into the NAmb. Thus, EA through GABAA receptor mechanisms in the rVLM, cVLM, and NAmb modulates gastric distention-induced reflex sympathoinhibition and vagal excitation.
Cardiac output, at rest and during exercise, before and during myocardial ischemia, reperfusion, and infarction in conscious mice
Authors: Lujan Heidi L. , DiCarlo Stephen E.
Published: January 2013

Multiple systems and regulatory strategies interact to control cardiac homeostasis. In fact, regulated systems, feedback controls, and redundant control mechanisms dominate in whole animals. Accordingly, molecular and cellular tools and techniques must be utilized in complex models with multiple systems and regulatory strategies to fully appreciate the physiological context. Currently, these techniques are mainly performed under conditions remote from the normal in vivo condition; thus, the extrapolation of molecular changes to the in vivo situation and the facilitation of translational aspect of the findings are limited. A major obstacle has been the reliance on preparations that do not mimic the clinical or physiological situation. This is particularly true regarding measurements of cardiac function in mice. To address these concerns, we used a permanently implanted Doppler ultrasonic flow probe on the ascending aorta and coronary artery occluder for repeated measurements of ascending aortic blood flow (cardiac output) in conscious mice, at rest and during exercise, before and during coronary artery occlusion/reperfusion and infarction. The conscious mouse model permits detailed monitoring of within-animal changes in cardiac function during myocardial ischemia, reperfusion, and infarction in an intact, complex model free of the confounding influences of anesthetics, surgical trauma, and restraint stress. Results from this study suggest that previous protocols may have overestimated resting baseline values and underestimated cardiac output reserve. Using these procedures in currently available spontaneous or engineered mouse mutants has the potential to be of major importance for advancing the concepts and methods that drive cardiovascular research.
The aldo-keto reductase AKR1B7 coexpresses with renin without influencing renin production and secretion
Authors: Machura Katharina , Iankilevitch Elina , Neubauer Björn , Theuring Franz , Kurtz Armin
Published: January 2013

On the basis of evidence that within the adult kidney, the aldo-keto reductase AKR1B7 (aldo-keto reductase family 1, member 7, also known as mouse vas deferens protein, MVDP) is selectively expressed in renin-producing cells, we aimed to define a possible role of AKR1B7 for the regulation and function of renin cells in the kidney. We could confirm colocalization and corecruitment of renin and of AKR1B7 in wild-type kidneys. Renin cells in AKR1B7-deficient kidneys showed normal morphology, numbers, and intrarenal distribution. Plasma renin concentration (PRC) and renin mRNA levels of AKR1B7-deficient mice were normal at standard chow and were lowered by a high-salt diet directly comparable to wild-type mice. Treatment with a low-salt diet in combination with an angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitor strongly increased PRC and renin mRNA in a similar fashion both in AKR1B7-deficient and wild-type mice. Under this condition, we also observed a strong retrograde recruitment of renin-expressing cell along the preglomerular vessels, however, without a difference between AKR1B7-deficient and wild-type mice. The isolated perfused mouse kidney model was used to study the acute regulation of renin secretion by ANG II and by perfusion pressure. Regarding these parameters, no differences were observed between AKR1B7-deficient and wild-type kidneys. In summary, our data suggest that AKR1B7 is not of major relevance for the regulation of renin production and secretion in spite of its striking coregulation with renin expression.
Influence of intermittent hypoxic training on muscle energetics and exercise tolerance
Authors: Holliss Ben A. , Fulford Jonathan , Vanhatalo Anni , Pedlar Charles R. , Jones Andrew M.
Published: January 2013

Intermittent hypoxic training (IHT) is sometimes used by athletes to enhance nonhematological physiological adaptations to simulated altitude. We investigated whether IHT would result in greater improvements in muscle energetics and exercise tolerance compared with work-matched intermittent normoxic training (INT). Nine physically active men completed 3 wk of intensive, single-leg knee-extensor exercise training. Each training session consisted of 25 min of IHT (FiO2 14.5 ± 0.1%) with the experimental leg and 25 min of INT with the alternate leg, which served as a control. Before and after the training intervention, subjects completed a test protocol consisting of a bout of submaximal constant-work-rate exercise, a 24-s high-intensity exercise bout to quantify the phosphocreatine recovery time constant ([PCr]-τ), and an incremental test to the limit of tolerance. The tests were completed in normoxia and hypoxia in both INT and IHT legs. Muscle metabolism was assessed noninvasively using 31P-magnetic resonance spectroscopy. Improvements in the time-to-exhaustion during incremental exercise were not significantly different between training conditions either in normoxia (INT, 28 ± 20% vs. IHT, 25 ± 9%; P = 0.86) or hypoxia (INT, 21 ± 10% vs. IHT, 15 ± 11%; P = 0.29). In hypoxia, [PCr]-τ was speeded slightly but significantly more post-IHT compared with post-INT (−7.3 ± 2.9 s vs. −3.7 ± 1.7 s; P < 0.01), but changes in muscle metabolite concentrations during exercise were essentially not different between IHT and INT. Under the conditions of this investigation, IHT does not appreciably alter muscle metabolic responses or incremental exercise performance compared with INT.
Hippocampal theta, gamma, and theta-gamma coupling: effects of aging, environmental change, and cholinergic activation
Authors: Jacobson Tara K. , Howe Matthew D. , Schmidt Brandy , Hinman James R. , Escabí Monty A. , Markus Etan J.
Published: January 2013

Hippocampal theta and gamma oscillations coordinate the timing of multiple inputs to hippocampal neurons and have been linked to information processing and the dynamics of encoding and retrieval. One major influence on hippocampal rhythmicity is from cholinergic afferents. In both humans and rodents, aging is linked to impairments in hippocampus-dependent function along with degradation of cholinergic function. Cholinomimetics can reverse some age-related memory impairments and modulate oscillations in the hippocampus. Therefore, one would expect corresponding changes in these oscillations and possible rescue with the cholinomimetic physostigmine. Hippocampal activity was recorded while animals explored a familiar or a novel maze configuration. Reexposure to a familiar situation resulted in minimal aging effects or changes in theta or gamma oscillations. In contrast, exploration of a novel maze configuration increased theta power; this was greater in adult than old animals, although the deficit was reversed with physostigmine. In contrast to the theta results, the effects of novelty, age, and/or physostigmine on gamma were relatively weak. Unrelated to the behavioral situation were an age-related decrease in the degree of theta-gamma coupling and the fact that physostigmine lowered the frequency of theta in both adult and old animals. The results indicate that age-related changes in gamma and theta modulation of gamma, while reflecting aging changes in hippocampal circuitry, seem less related to aging changes in information processing. In contrast, the data support a role for theta and the cholinergic system in encoding and that hippocampal aging is related to impaired encoding of new information.
Acetylation of Wood Flour from Four Wood Species Grown in Nigeria Using Vinegar and Acetic Anhydride
Authors: Azeh Yakubu , Olatunji Gabriel Ademola , Mohammed Cheku , Mamza Paul Andrew
Published: January 2013

Effect of acetylation on pretreated wood flour of four different wood species, Boabab (Adansonia digitata), Mahoganny (Daniella oliveri), African locust bean (Parkia biglobosa) and Beech wood (Gmelina arborea), had been investigated. The first batch of wood species were acetylated using acetic anhydride while the second batch were acetylated with commercial vinegar. Both experiments were conducted in the presence of varying amount of CaCl2as catalyst and at temperature of 120°C for 3 h. The success of acetylation was determined based on Weight Percent Gain for each sample treated with either chemicals used. FT-IR, a veritable tool was used for the analysis of both treated and untreated samples to further investigate the success of acetylation. The results showed the presence of important band such as carbonyl absorptions at 1743, 1744, 1746, 1731, 1718 and 1696 cm−1as appeared separately in the spectra of acetylated samples, confirming esterification occurred. The purpose of this work was to investigate the applicability of vinegar for acetylation of lignocellulosic fibers. Blends/composites were prepared by solution casting and their kinetics investigated in distilled water. The results indicated they could be used in outdoor applications such as, decking and packaging.
Study on Routing Protocols for Delay Tolerant Mobile Networks
Authors: Gong Haigang , Yu Lingfei
Published: January 2013

Delay tolerant mobile networks feature with intermittent connectivity, huge transmission delay, nodal mobility, and so forth. There is usually no end-to-end path in the networks and it poses great challenges for routing in DTMNs. In this paper, the architecture of DTMNs is introduced at first, including the characteristics of DTMNs, routing challenges, and metric and mobility models. And then, the state-of-the-art routing protocols for DTMNs are discussed and analyzed. Routing strategies are classified into three categories: nonknowledge-based approach, knowledge-based approach, and social-based approach. Finally, some research issues about DTMNs are presented.
Comparison of Clinicopathological Characteristics in the Patients with Cardiac Cancer with or without Esophagogastric Junctional Invasion: A Single-Center Retrospective Cohort Study
Authors: Ito Hiroaki , Inoue Haruhiro , Odaka Noriko , Satodate Hitoshi , Suzuki Michitaka , Mukai Shumpei , Takehara Yusuke , Omoto Tomokatsu , Kudo Shin-ei
Published: January 2013

Background. This study addresses clinicopathological differences between patients with gastric cardia and subcardial cancer with and without esophagogastric junctional invasion.Methods. We performed a single-center, retrospective cohort study. We studied patients who underwent curative surgery for gastric cardia and subcardial cancers. Tumors centered in the proximal 5 cm of the stomach were classed into two types, according to whether they did (Ge) or did not (G) invade the esophagogastric junction.Results. A total of 80 patients were studied; 19 (73.1%) of 26 Ge tumors and 16 (29.6%) of 54 G tumors had lymph nodes metastases. Incidence of nodal metastasis in pT1 tumors was significantly higher in the Ge tumor group. No nodal metastasis in cervical lymph nodes was recognized. Only two patients with Ge tumors had mediastinal lymph node metastases. Incidence of perigastric lymph node metastasis was significantly higher in those with Ge tumors. Ge tumors tended to be staged as progressive disease using the esophageal cancer staging manual rather than the gastric cancer staging manual.Conclusion. Because there are some differences in clinicopathological characteristics, it is thought to be adequate to distinguish type Ge from type G tumor.
Thermodynamic, Electromagnetic, and Lattice Properties of Antiperovskite Mn3SbN
Authors: Sun Ying , Guo Yan-Feng , Tsujimoto Yoshihiro , Wang Xia , Li Jun , Sathish Clastin I. , Wang Cong , Yamaura Kazunari
Published: January 2013

The physical properties of polycrystalline Mn3SbN were investigated using measurements of the magnetic, calorimetric, and electronic transport properties. At room temperature, the phase crystallizes in a tetragonal structure withP4/mmmsymmetry. A remarkably sharp peak in the heat capacity versus temperature curve was found near 353 K. The peak reaches 723 J mol−1 K−1at its highest, which corresponds to a transition entropy of 10.2 J mol−1 K−1. The majority of the large entropy change appears to be due to lattice distortion from the high-temperature cubic structure to the room-temperature tetragonal structure and the accompanying Ferrimagnetic transition.
The Extreme and Support Points of a New Class of Analytic Functions with Positive Real Part
Authors: Peng Zhigang
Published: January 2013

Suppose that 0<α<β<+∞. Let 𝒫(α,β) denote the set of functions p(z) that are analytic in D= {z:|z|<1}  and satisfy Rep(z)>0(|z|<1) and α≤p(0)≤β. In this paper, we investigate the extreme points and support points of 𝒫(α,β).
Optimizing Classification Decision Trees by Using Weighted Naïve Bayes Predictors to Reduce the Imbalanced Class Problem in Wireless Sensor Network
Authors: Yang Hang , Fong Simon , Wong Raymond , Sun Guangmin
Published: January 2013

Standard classification algorithms are often inaccurate when used in a wireless sensor network (WSN), where the observed data occur in imbalanced classes. The imbalanced data classification problem occurs when the number of samples in one class, usually the class of interest, is much lower than the number in the other classes. Many classification models have been studied in the data-mining research community. However, they all assume that the input data are stationary and bounded in size, so that resampling techniques and postadjustment by measuring the classification cost can be applied. In this paper, we devise a new scheme that extends a popular stream classification algorithm to the analysis of WSNs for reducing the adverse effects of the imbalanced class in the data. This new scheme is resource light at the algorithm level and does not require any data preprocessing. It uses weighted naïve Bayes predictors at the decision tree leaves to effectively reduce the impact of imbalanced classes. Experiments show that our modified algorithm outperforms the original stream classification algorithm.
Virtual Visual Effect of Hospital Waiting Room on Pain Modulation in Healthy Subjects and Patients with Chronic Migraine
Authors: de Tommaso Marina , Ricci Katia , Laneve Luigi , Savino Nicola , Antonaci Vincenzo , Livrea Paolo
Published: January 2013

Environmental context has an important impact on health and well being. We aimed to test the effects of a visual distraction induced by classical hospital waiting room (RH) versus an ideal room with a sea view (IH), both represented in virtual reality (VR), on subjective sensation and cortical responses induced by painful laser stimuli (LEPs) in healthy volunteers and patients with chronic migraine (CM). Sixteen CM and 16 controls underwent 62 channels LEPs from the right hand, during a fully immersive VR experience, where two types of waiting rooms were simulated. The RH simulated a classical hospital waiting room while the IH represented a room with sea viewing. CM patients showed a reduction of laser pain rating and vertex LEPs during the IH vision. The sLORETA analysis confirmed that in CM patients the two VR simulations induced a different modulation of bilateral parietal cortical areas (precuneus and superior parietal lobe), and superior frontal and cingulate girus, in respect to controls. The architectural context may interfere with pain perception, depending upon the status of subject. Many variables may change patients’ outcome and support the use of VR technology to test the best conditions for their management.
Bulk Metallic Glasses and Their Composites: A Brief History of Diverging Fields
Authors: Hofmann Douglas C.
Published: January 2013

Bulk metallic glasses (BMGs) and their derivative metal matrix composites (BMGMCs) are emerging high-performance engineering materials that are on the precipice of widespread commercialization. This review article discusses the origin of these materials and how their applications and research focus have divided into two distinct fields, one primarily focused on the plastic-like processability of BMGs and the other on the enhanced fracture mechanics of BMGMCs. Although the materials are of similar composition and origin, it is argued that their implementation will be widely varying due to their different processing requirements and intended uses. BMGs will likely find use as plastic-replacement components in cosmetic applications (e.g., watches, cell phones, biomedical implants) while BMGMCs will be used in structural applications (e.g., golf clubs, hardware for defense, energy absorbing structures).
Ambient Zinc K-Edge Extended X-Ray Absorption Fine Structure Studies on Solid Solution Hardening of the Ternary Alloys
Authors: Khan Shabina , Mazher Javed , Singh Pankaja
Published: January 2013

Solid solution hardening can be introduced in the zinc selenide by cationic substitution alloying. We are presenting our studies on gradual development of the hardening and the bond-length variations among the heavily Be-doped ternary alloys of . These compositionally vivid ternary systems are grown by the Bridgman technique, and a set of careful measurements of synchrotron-based Zn core X-ray absorption spectroscopy are performed on the mixed alloy, which is followed by extraction of useful oscillations of extended X-ray absorption fine structures. A detailed ab initio analysis is also carried out for the mixed alloy’s theoretical EXAFS simulations, and suitable data processing codes are used for the subsequent experimental spectra fittings. Various X-ray scattering single and multiple paths around the core atomic environ are simulated and compared with the spectroscopic results. With the aid of as-found parametric values, the hardening and crystalline disorders are discussed and explained in the midst of the multimodal bond-length behaviors and changes induced by the increased alloying amid as-found pseudocrystalline stabilities.
Management of Combat Vascular Injuries Using Modern Imaging: Are We Getting Better?
Authors: Nitecki Samy S. , Karram Tony , Ofer Amos , Engel Ahuva , Hoffman Aaron
Published: January 2013

Background. Vascular injuries often result in life threatening hemorrhage or limb loss. When they present with a single entry or exit wound, surgery is immediately indicated. With multiple injuries, however, imaging such as CTA is necessary for diagnosis and choice of treatment.Methods. For all combat-related vascular cases admitted to our medical center during the Lebanon wars in 1982 and 2006, we compiled and compared presenting signs and symptoms, means of diagnosis, treatments, and results.Results. 126 patients with vascular injuries were admitted (87 in 1982, 39 in 2006). 90% were male; mean age of 29 years (range 20–53). All injuries were accompanied by insult to soft tissue, bones, and viscera. 75% presented with injury to arteries in the extremities. 75% of these patients presented with limb ischemia, and 25% sustained massive blood loss. Treatments included venous interposition graft, end-to-end anastomosis, venous patch, endovascular technique (only in 2006), and ligation/observation. Complications included thrombosis and wound infections. Mortality and amputations occurred only in 1982, and this may be attributed to the use of imaging, advanced technique, and shorter average time from injury to hospital (7 hours).Conclusions. We recommend CTA as the first line modality for diagnosis of vascular injuries, as its liberal use allowed for early and appropriate treatment. Treatment outcomes improved with fast and effective resuscitation, liberal use of tourniquets and fasciotomies, and meticulous treatment by a multidisciplinary team.
Experimental Research of Dynamic Instabilities in the Presence of Coiled Wire Inserts on Two‐Phase Flow
Authors: Omeroglu Gokhan , Comakli Omer , Karagoz Sendogan , Sahin Bayram
Published: January 2013

The aim of this study is to experimentally investigate the effect of the coiled wire insertions on dynamic instabilities and to compare the results with the smooth tube for forced convection boiling. The experiments were conducted in a circular tube, and water was used as the working fluid. Two different pitch ratios (H/D = 2.77 and 5.55) of coiled wire with circular cross‐sections were utilised. The constant heat flux boundary condition was applied to the outer side of the test tube, and the constant exit restriction was used at the tube outlet. The mass flow rate changed from 110 to 20 g/s in order to obtain a detailed idea about the density wave and pressure drop oscillations, and the range of the inlet temperature was 15–35°C. The changes in pressure drop, inlet temperature, amplitude, and the period with mass flow rate are presented. For each configuration, it is seen that density wave and pressure drop oscillations occur at all inlet temperatures. Analyses show that the decrease in the mass flow rate and inlet temperature causes the amplitude and the period of the density wave and the pressure drop oscillations to decrease separately.
Soluble Flt-1 Gene Delivery in Acute Myeloid Leukemic Cells Mediating a Nonviral Gene Carrier
Authors: Amini Razieh , Azizi Jalilian Farid , Veerakumarasivam Abhi , Abdullah Syahril , Abdulamir Ahmed S. , Nadali Fatemeh , Rosli Rozita
Published: January 2013

Vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) is a potent angiogenic factor involved in angiogenesis-mediated progression of acute myeloid leukemia (AML). Studies have reported the role of soluble form of fms-like tyrosine kinase (sFlT-1) delivery as an antitumor agent by inhibiting VEGF. This study investigates the outcome of delivery of a VEGF165 antagonist, soluble vascular endothelial growth factor receptor, namely sFLT-1, mediating lipofectamine 2000 in acute myeloid leukemic cells. A recombinant plasmid expressing sFLT-1 was constructed and transfected into the K562 and HL60 cells using lipofectamine 2000 transfection reagent. sFLT-1 expression/secretion in pVAX-sFLT-1 transfected cells was verified by RT-PCR and western blot. MTS assay was carried out to evaluate the effect of sFLT-1 on human umbilical vein endothelial cells and K562 and HL60 cellsin vitro. Treatment with pVAX-sFLT-1 showed no association between sFLT-1 and proliferation of infected K562 and HL60 cells, while it demonstrated a significant inhibitory impact on the proliferation of HUVECs. The results of the current study imply that the combination of nonviral gene carrier and sFLT-1 possesses the potential to provide efficient tool for the antiangiogenic gene therapy of AML.
Microcirculatory Changes in Term Newborns with Suspected Infection: An Observational Prospective Study
Authors: Alba-Alejandre Irene , Hiedl Stephan , Genzel-Boroviczény Orsolya
Published: January 2013

Background. In adults severely disturbed microcirculatory flow can be observed by Orthogonal Polarized Spectral (OPS) imaging techniques during sepsis. Therefore we set out to assess for microcirculatory changes in term newborns with suspected early onset infection using OPS.Methods. OPS images were obtained prospectively from the vascular bed of the ear conch and upper arm of 47 newborns on their 1st, 2nd, and 3rd day of life. OPS sequences were analyzed semiquantitatively offline and blinded to clinical status of the infant. Flow in vessels was classified as continuous or noncontinuous flow and given as proportion of total vessels per image as in the studies in adults.Results. The proportion of vessels with continuous flow was significantly lower in the infants with infection (69% [56–81] versus 90% [87–94](P=0.0003)). None of the infants with infection was in shock or severely septic.Conclusion. In term neonates the microcirculatory flow is impaired in a large proportion of vessels even in mild to moderate infection. These changes can be observed at the onset of disease at the external ear, an optimal site for microcirculatory measurements in term infants.
Early Cenozoic Multiple Thrust in the Tibetan Plateau
Authors: Wu Zhenhan , Ye Peisheng , Barosh Patrick J. , Hu Daogong , Lu Lu
Published: January 2013

Recently completed regional geological mapping at a scale of 1 : 250,000 or larger across all of the Tibetan Plateau coupled with deep seismic surveys reveals for the first time a comprehensive depiction of the major early Cenozoic thrust systems resulting from the northward subduction of the Indian Continental Plate. These systems define a series of overlapping north-dipping thrust sheets that thickened the Tibetan crust and lead to the rise of the plateau. The few south-dipping thrusts present apparently developed within a sheet when the back moved faster than the toe. Many of the thrusts are shown to extend to the middle-lower crustal depths by seismic data. The regional thrust systems are the Main Central, Renbu-Zedong, Gangdese, Central Gangdese, North Gangdese, Bangoin-Nujiang, Qiangtang, Hohxil, and South Kunlun Thrusts. The minimal southward displacements of the South Kunlun, Hohxil, South Qiangtang, and Central Gangdese Thrusts are estimated to be 30 km, 25 km, 150 km and 50 km, respectively. Deep thrusting began in the Himalaya-Tibetan region soon after India-Eurasia continental collision and led to crustal thickening and subsequent uplift of the Tibetan Plateau during Late Eocene-Early Miocene when the systems were mainly active. The major thrust systems ceased moving in Early Miocene and many were soon covered by lacustrine strata. This activity succeeded in the late Cenozoic to crustal extension and strike-slip movement in the central Tibetan Plateau. The revelation of the full array of the early Cenozoic thrust systems provides a much more complete understanding of the tectonic framework of the Tibetan Plateau.
Effect of Electronic Acceptor Segments on Photophysical Properties of Low‐Band‐Gap Ambipolar Polymers
Authors: Li Yuanzuo , Cui Jingang , Zhao Jianing , Liu Jinglin , Song Peng , Ma Fengcai
Published: January 2013

Stimulated by a recent experimental report, charge transfer and photophysical properties of donor‐acceptor ambipolar polymer were studied with the quantum chemistry calculation and the developed 3D charge difference density method. The effects of electronic acceptor strength on the structure, energy levels, electron density distribution, ionization potentials, and electron affinities were also obtained to estimate the transporting ability of hole and electron. With the developed 3D charge difference density, one visualizes the charge transfer process, distinguishes the role of molecular units, and finds the relationship between the role of DPP and excitation energy for the three polymers during photo‐excitation.
Undertreated Breast Cancer in the Elderly
Authors: Malik Manmeet Kaur , Tartter Paul Ian , Belfer Rachel
Published: January 2013

The effect of undertreatment with adjuvant hormonal therapy, chemotherapy, or radiation was studied in elderly women with breast cancer. A prospectively maintained database was used to identify women undergoing potentially curative surgery between 1978 and 2012. The presentation, pathologic findings, treatment, and outcomes of 382 women over 70 were compared to the findings in 2065 younger patients. Subsequently, conventionally treated and undertreated elderly patients were identified and their characteristics and outcomes were compared. Both young and old patients presented most frequently with mammographic findings, but older patients presented more frequently with mammographic masses while younger patients presented more frequently with mammographic calcifications. Cancers of older patients were significantly more favorable than cancers in younger patients: smaller, with more infiltrating lobular, fewer ductal carcinoma in situ, and more frequently estrogen receptor positive and fewer were poorly differentiated. Elderly patients had less axillary sampling, fewer mastectomies, less adjuvant radiation therapy, and more hormonal therapy. Fifty-one percent of the 382 elderly patients were undertreated by conventional criteria. Undertreated patients were more frequently in situ, better differentiated, smaller, and more often estrogen receptor positive. Forty-four percent of the undertreated patients died during followup without disease recurrence. Despite undertreatment, local and distant disease-free survival was comparable to patients who were not undertreated.
The Extracts of Some Marine Invertebrates and Algae Collected off the Coast Waters of Vietnam Induce the Inhibitory Effects on the Activator Protein‐1 Transcriptional Activity in JB6 Cl41 Cells
Authors: Fedorov S. N. , Krasokhin V. B. , Shubina L. K. , Dyshlovoy S. A. , Nam N. H. , Minh C. V.
Published: January 2013

It has previously been shown that inhibition of the transcriptional activity of the oncogenic nuclear factor AP‐1 can result in cancer prevention. Marine invertebrates and alga are a rich source of natural compounds that possess various biological activities. The inhibitory effects of the extracts of Vietnamese marine organisms in relation to the AP‐1 transcriptional activity were examined by the luciferase method using JB6 Cl41 cells stably expressing a luciferase reporter gene controlled by AP‐1 DNA binding sequence. As was found, 71 species of marine sponges out of 148 species studied contain inhibitors of the AP‐1 transcriptional activity. Therefore, marine organisms as a source of biologically active compounds have a great potential for isolation of the new cancer preventive compounds that inhibit the oncogenic AP‐1 nuclear factor.
Thermal Behavior of Green Roofs Applied to Tropical Climate
Authors: Tibério Cardoso Grace , Vecchia Francisco
Published: January 2013

The main goal of this paper is to present results on an experimental field about the green roofs thermal behavior, compared to other traditional roof covering systems. On the one hand, it intends to describe shortly the constructive system of a green roof with a lightweight building system, which has a sustainable building materials character and, on the other, it worries with the water reuse and with the run-off delay. The main methodological procedure adopted to study the thermal behavior of green roof was installing thermocouples to collect surface temperatures and indoor air, later comparing them with existing prototypes in an experimental plot. The thermal behavior analysis of cover systems was assessed by a representative episode of the climate fact, based on the dynamic climate approach. The experimental results from internal air temperature measurements show that the green roofs applied to warm and dry climates also provide an interesting time lag with surface and internal air temperature reduction.
Oat Attenuation of Hyperglycemia-Induced Retinal Oxidative Stress and NF-B Activation in Streptozotocin-Induced Diabetic Rats
Authors: Al-Malki Abdulrahman L.
Published: January 2013

The overproduction of reactive oxygen species (ROS) plays a central role in the pathogenesis of endothelial damage in diabetes. To assess the effect of oat on experimental diabetic retinopathy, five groups of Albino rats were studied: nondiabetic control, untreated diabetic, and diabetic rats treated with 5%, 10%, and 20% (W/W) oat of the diet for 12 weeks. Novel data were obtained in this study indicating a protective role of oat against oxidative stress and diabetic retinopathy. The effects of oat on parameters of oxidative stress, AGE, and nuclear factor kappa B (NF-B) were assessed by ELISA and NF-B activation by electrophoretic mobility shift assay. Tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF) and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) were also determined. After 12 weeks of diabetes, oat treatment reduced blood glucose levels, HbA1c, all oxidative stress markers, CML, normalized NF-B activation and TNF expression. Furthermore it reduced VEGF in the diabetic retina by 43% (). In conclusion, oat modulates microvascular damage through normalized pathways downstream of ROS overproduction and reduction of NF-B and its controlled genes activation, which may provide additional endothelial protection.
Imatinib Radiosensitizes Bladder Cancer by Targeting Homologous Recombination
Authors: Qiao Boling , Kerr Martin , Groselj Blaz , Teo Mark T.W. , Knowles Margaret A. , Bristow Robert G. , Phillips Roger M. , Kiltie Anne E.
Published: January 2013

Radiotherapy is a major treatment modality used to treat muscle-invasive bladder cancer, with patient outcomes similar to surgery. However, radioresistance is a significant factor in treatment failure. Cell-free extracts of muscle-invasive bladder tumors are defective in nonhomologous end-joining (NHEJ), and this phenotype may be used clinically by combining radiotherapy with a radiosensitizing drug that targets homologous recombination, thereby sparing normal tissues with intact NHEJ. The response of the homologous recombination protein RAD51 to radiation is inhibited by the small-molecule tyrosine kinase inhibitor imatinib. Stable RT112 bladder cancer Ku knockdown (Ku80KD) cells were generated using short hairpin RNA technology to mimic the invasive tumor phenotype and also RAD51 knockdown (RAD51KD) cells to show imatinib's pathway selectivity. Ku80KD, RAD51KD, nonsilencing vector control, and parental RT112 cells were treated with radiation in combination with either imatinib or lapatinib, which inhibits NHEJ and cell survival assessed by clonogenic assay. Drug doses were chosen at approximately IC40 and IC10 (nontoxic) levels. Imatinib radiosensitized Ku80KD cells to a greater extent than RAD51KD or RT112 cells. In contrast, lapatinib radiosensitized RAD51KD and RT112 cells but not Ku80KD cells. Taken together, our findings suggest a new application for imatinib in concurrent use with radiotherapy to treat muscle-invasive bladder cancer. Cancer Res; 73(5); 1611–20. ©2012 AACR.