bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Biological study of the Angiogenesis Inhibitor N‐(8‐(3‐ethynylphenoxy)octyl‐1‐deoxynojirimycin
Authors: Zhao Yunxue , Zhou Ying , O’ Boyle Kathy M. , Murphy Paul V.
Published: May 2010

The α‐glucosidase inhibitors N‐methyl‐1‐deoxynojirimycin (MDNJ) and castanospermine have been shown to inhibit angiogenesis. A hybrid of 1‐deoxynojirimycin (DNJ) and an aryl‐1,2,3‐triazole, which inhibits both an α‐glucosidase and methionine aminopeptidase‐2 (MetAP2), displayed properties associated with inhibition of angiogenesis (Bioorg. Med. Chem., 16, 2008, 6333–7). The biological evaluation of a structural analogue N‐(8‐(3‐ethynylphenoxy)octyl‐1‐deoxynojirimycin is described herein. Although this alkyne derivative did not inhibit MetAP2, it inhibited a bacterial α‐glucosidase, altered bovine aortic endothelial cell (BAEC) surface oligosaccharide expression and inhibited BAEC proliferation by inducing G1 phase cell cycle arrest. Experiments showed G1 arrest was attributable to the α‐glucosidase inhibitor inducing an increase in p27Kip1 expression and high phosphorylation of ERK1/2 without a reduction in cyclin D1. The DNJ derivative (0.1 mm) prevented capillary tube formation from bovine aortic endothelial cells, whereas DNJ or other analogues were unable to inhibit tube formation at the same concentration. Stress fiber assembly in bovine aortic endothelial cells was abolished, and BAEC migration was inhibited indicating the inhibition of tube formation by this derivative is partially a result of a reduction in cell motility. The agent also caused a reduction in secretion of MMP‐2 from bovine aortic endothelial cells. Therefore, the new α‐glucosidase inhibitor has a different mechanism by which it inhibits angiogenesis in vitro when compared with deoxynojirimycin, the deoxynojirimycin ‐triazole hybrid, N‐methyl‐1‐deoxynojirimycin and castanospermine.
Multidimensional Drug Design: Simultaneous Analysis of Binding and Relative Efficacy Profiles of N6‐substituted‐4′‐thioadenosines A3 Adenosine Receptor Agonists
Authors: Cruz‐Monteagudo Maykel , Cordeiro M. Natália D. S. , Teijeira Marta , González Maykel P. , Borges Fernanda
Published: May 2010

Desirability theory (DT) is a well‐known multi‐criteria decision‐making approach. In this work, DT is employed as a prediction model (PM) interpretation tool to extract useful information on the desired trade‐offs between binding and relative efficacy of N6‐substituted‐4′‐thioadenosines A3 adenosine receptor (A3AR) agonists. At the same time, it was shown the usefulness of a parallel but independent approach providing a feedback on the reliability of the combination of properties predicted as a unique desirability value. The appliance of belief theory allowed the quantification of the reliability of the predicted desirability of a compound according to two inverse and independent but complementary prediction approaches. This information is proven to be useful as a ranking criterion in a ligand‐based virtual screening study. The development of a linear PM of the A3AR agonists overall desirability allows finding significant clues based on simple molecular descriptors. The model suggests a relevant role of the type of substituent on the N6 position of the adenine ring that in general contribute to reduce the flexibility and hydrophobicity of the lead compound. The mapping of the desirability function derived of the PM offers specific information such as the shape and optimal size of the N6 substituent. The model herein developed allows a simultaneous analysis of both binding and relative efficacy profiles of A3AR agonists. The information retrieved guides the theoretical design and assembling of a combinatorial library suitable for filtering new N6‐substituted‐4′‐thioadenosines A3AR agonist candidates with simultaneously improved binding and relative efficacy profiles. The utility of the desirability/belief‐based proposed virtual screening strategy was deduced from our training set. Based on the overall results, it is possible to assert that the combined use of desirability and belief theories in computational medicinal chemistry research can aid the discovery of A3AR agonist candidates with favorable balance between binding and relative efficacy profiles.
Structure and Activity of CPNGRC: A Modified CD13/APN Peptidic Homing Motif
Authors: Plesniak Leigh A. , Salzameda Bridget , Hinderberger Holly , Regan Elizabeth , Kahn James , Mills Stephen A. , Teriete Peter , Yao Yong , Jennings Patricia , Marassi Francesca , Adams Joseph A.
Published: May 2010

Asn‐Gly‐Arg peptides have been designed as vehicles for the delivery of chemotherapeutics, magnetic resonance imaging contrast agents, and fluorescence labels to tumor cells, and cardiac angiogenic tissue. Specificity is derived via an interaction with aminopeptidase N, also known as CD13, a cell surface receptor that is highly expressed in angiogenic tissue. Peptides containing the CNGRC homing sequence tethered to a pro‐apoptotic peptide sequence have the ability to specifically induce apoptosis in tumor cells. We have now identified a modification to the Asn‐Gly‐Arg homing sequence motif that improves overall binding affinity to aminopeptidase N. Through the addition of a proline residue, the new peptide with sequence, CPNGRC, inhibits aminopeptidase N proteolytic activity with an IC50 of 10 μm, a value that is 30‐fold lower than that for CNGRC. Both peptides are cyclized via a disulfide bridge between cysteines. Steady‐state kinetic experiments suggest that efficient aminopeptidase N inhibition is achieved through the highly cooperative binding of two molecules of CPNGRC. We have used NMR‐derived structural constraints for the elucidation of the solution structures CNGRC and CPNGRC. Resulting structures of CNGRC and CPNGRC have significant differences in the backbone torsion angles, which may contribute to the enhanced binding affinity and demonstrated enzyme inhibition by CPNGRC.
Insights into the In Vitro Antitumor Mechanism of Action of a New Pyranoxanthone
Authors: Palmeira Andreia , Paiva Ana , Sousa Emília , Seca Hugo , Almeida Gabriela M. , Lima Raquel T. , Fernandes Miguel X. , Pinto Madalena , Vasconcelos M. Helena
Published: May 2010

Naturally occurring xanthones have been documented as having antitumor properties, with some of them presently undergoing clinical trials. In an attempt to improve the biological activities of dihydroxyxanthones, prenylation and other molecular modifications were performed. All the compounds reduced viable cell number in a leukemia cell line K‐562, with the fused xanthone 3,4‐dihydro‐12‐hydroxy‐2,2‐dimethyl‐2H,6H‐pyrano[3,2‐b]xanthen‐6‐one (5) being the most potent. The pyranoxanthone 5 was particularly effective in additional leukemia cell lines (HL‐60 and BV‐173). Furthermore, the pyranoxanthone 5 decreased cellular proliferation and induced an S‐phase cell cycle arrest. In vitro, the pyranoxanthone 5 increased the percentage of apoptotic cells which was confirmed by an appropriate response at the protein level (e.g., PARP cleavage). Using a computer screening strategy based on the structure of several anti‐ and pro‐apoptotic proteins, it was verified that the pyranoxanthone 5 may block the binding of anti‐apoptotic Bcl‐xL to pro‐apoptotic Bad and Bim. The structure‐based screening revealed the pyranoxanthone 5 as a new scaffold that may guide the design of small molecules with better affinity profile for Bcl‐xL.
Pragmatics: From Theory to Experiment and Back Again
Authors: Katsos Napoleon , Cummins Chris
Published: May 2010

This article reviews some cases in which the collaboration of theoretical pragmaticians and psychologists of language has been most fruitful for all parties. Linguists have benefited from experimental data confirming the psychological validity of their observations and providing theory‐critical evidence in cases beyond the reach of reflective intuition, whereas psychologists have benefited from having a wealth of linguistic phenomena to study as well as multiple theories furnished by semantics and pragmatics. Focusing on the much‐discussed question of whether scalar implicature is a default inference, we aim to showcase the benefits of the experimental approach to pragmatics.
The Relationship Between Speaker’s Reference and Semantic Reference
Authors: Lumsden David
Published: May 2010

The distinction between speaker’s and semantic reference arose in connection with Donnellan’s distinction between the referential use and the attributive use of definite descriptions. The central issue concerning the referential/attributive distinction is whether it is semantic or pragmatic. Kripke favours the pragmatic interpretation and developed the terminology of speaker’s and semantic reference in his explanation. The notion of speaker’s reference can apply also to uses of proper names, demonstratives, indefinite descriptions and quantifier expressions. The main danger for the speaker’s reference/semantic reference distinction lies in controversy over the semantics/pragmatics interface. Both Relevance Theory and neo‐Gricean theory acknowledge the phenomenon of pragmatic intrusion into semantics. If the pragmatic intrusion involves objective context rather than speaker’s intentions this may permit a distinction between speaker’s and semantic reference.
Beyond the ‘Orphan Burden’: Understanding Care for and by AIDS‐affected Children in Africa
Authors: Abebe Tatek
Published: May 2010

Although African children have long been acknowledged as making meaningful contributions in processes of social and economic reproduction, orphans due to AIDS are viewed as simple ‘burdens’, mere objects of pity and charity appeals. Existing studies on the care of AIDS‐affected children by extended families are also highly polarized, focusing either on how the traditional system of childcare has collapsed (the ‘social rupture thesis’) or how it is coping well (the ‘theory of social resilience’). This article reviews current research on orphanhood in the context of AIDS in sub‐Saharan Africa. It critically examines debates on care for and by AIDS‐affected children, analyzing the complex ways in which these children seek spaces of care within and make contributions to the interdependent livelihoods of extended families in which they play an active part. The article goes beyond the ‘orphan burden’ to draw analytical attention into the ways in which care can be conceptualized as a multi‐dimensional phenomenon involving children’s capacity to reciprocate resources of care (economic, emotional and psychosocial) with their families rather than being a one‐dimensional process whereby they are simply placed in the receiving end of the care continuum.
Agent‐based Models and the Spatial Sciences
Authors: Torrens Paul M.
Published: May 2010

Agent‐based models (ABMs) are used in the spatial sciences as building‐blocks for computer simulation. ABMs have a range of advantageous attributes, not least of which is their flexibility in representing dynamic and highly adaptive physical or human phenomena. ABMs facilitate the exploration of ideas about the myriad of ways that geographical systems develop, behave, interact and evolve, often supporting experimentation with geographical systems in ways that are simply not possible in the real world. Indeed, in many cases, ABMs are developed from the bottom up, pedagogically, as a tool in building theory. Geographers’ work with ABMs has helped to strengthen existing ties with related disciplines such as computer science and informatics, ecology, sustainability science, economics, anthropology, political science and the earth sciences. Primarily because of the value placed on spatial science and behavioral geography in agent‐based modeling, work of this kind is helping to infuse geographical perspectives and ‘spatial thinking’ into these fields. This article reviews the development of agent‐based modeling in the spatial sciences, its current uses and applications in physical and human geography and potential future trends in its research and development.
Geographies of Architecture: The Multiple Lives of Buildings
Authors: Kraftl Peter
Published: May 2010

Arguably, cultural geography began with the study of architectural forms. The first half of this article traces the geographical study of buildings as a relatively small but significant sub‐field of cultural geography. It summarises three approaches that characterise this work. First, the study of everyday, vernacular buildings, found especially (but not exclusively) in North American cultural geography. Second, radical critiques of the political–economic imperatives that are built into particular architectural forms such as the skyscraper and the related interpretation of buildings as signs, symbols or referents for dominant socio‐cultural discourses or moralities. Third, what can broadly (but not unproblematically) be termed non‐representational or ‘critical’ methods that stress practice, materiality and affect. The second half of the article highlights the productive connections between these three approaches. It stresses that recent research on the geographies of architecture has adopted elements of each approach to make a number of contributions to the study of cultural geography. Two key themes are considered: movement/stasis; the politics of architectural design and practice. Consideration of these themes anticipates a conclusion with some broad suggestions for future geographical research on architecture.
Predictors of Hypertension Control in a Diverse General Cardiology Practice
Authors: DeVore Adam D. , Sorrentino Matthew , Arnsdorf Morton F. , Ward R. Parker , Bakris George L. , Blankstein Ron
Published: May 2010

J Clin Hypertens(Greenwich). 2010;12:570–577. © 2010 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Factors influencing hypertension (HTN) control in the United States are not well understood. The authors utilized a newly designed survey instrument to interview patients presenting to a diverse, general cardiology practice at a tertiary care center in order to identify factors associated with HTN control. The study was completed in 154 participants, and 121 (78.6%) had HTN. Of those, 111 (91.7%) had awareness of HTN, and 72 (59.5%) had HTN control, defined as <140/90 mm Hg. In a multivariate analysis, race/ethnicity was not associated with HTN control, but private insurance (odds ratio [OR] 3.40, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.25–9.28), nonsmoker status (OR 4.36, CI 1.22–15.51), and number of medications used (OR 1.32, CI 1.12–1.56) were associated with HTN control. Correct recognition of systolic blood pressure goal and knowledge of one’s current state of HTN control were also associated with control. In conclusion, in a general cardiology practice where patients had a high degree of healthcare access, race/ethnicity was not associated with HTN control, while type of insurance, nonsmoker status, and increased number of medications used were associated. In addition, 2 novel predictors of HTN control, recognition of systolic blood pressure goal and knowledge of HTN control, were identified that can be utilized in creating new HTN treatment interventions.
Urine Albumin Excretion, Within Normal Range, Reflects Increasing Prevalence of Metabolic Syndrome in Patients With Essential Hypertension
Authors: Vyssoulis Gregory , Karpanou Eva , Spanos Pangiotis , Kyvelou Stella‐Maria , Adamopoulos Dionysios , Stefanadis Christodoulos
Published: May 2010

J Clin Hypertens(Greenwich). 2010;12:597–602. © 2010 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Microalbuminuria is a prognostic marker of cardiovascular disease and is related to metabolic syndrome (MetS). For this purpose, the authors examined the relationship of low grade albuminuria to MetS, using 4 current definitions and a MetS score. They studied 6650 consecutive, nondiabetic, hypertensive patients with normal microalbumin excretion. MetS was defined by Adult Treatment Panel III, American Heart Association, World Heart Organization, International Diabetes Federation criteria, and MetS Gruppo Italiano per lo Studio della Streptochinasi nell’Infarcto Miocardico (GISSI) score. Urine microalbumin concentration was measured after a 24‐hour urine collection by immunonephelometry. By all definitions, hypertensive patients with MetS had higher microalbumin levels. Significantly higher microalbumin levels were observed as the number of metabolic components rose. After adjustment for systolic blood pressure, the strength of this association was reduced to a nonsignificant level. Microalbumin levels, within normal range, are increased in patients with MetS, irrespective of the definition criteria.
Aspirin Resistance in Hypertensive Patients
Authors: Ozben Beste , Tanrikulu Azra M. , Ozben Tomris , Caymaz Oguz
Published: May 2010

J Clin Hypertens (Greenwich). 2010;12:714–720. ©2010 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Aspirin resistance is associated with poor clinical prognosis. The authors investigated aspirin resistance in 200 hypertensive patients (111 men, age: 68.3±11.4 years) by the Ultegra Rapid Platelet Function Assay‐ASA (Accumetrics Inc., San Diego, CA). Aspirin resistance was defined as an aspirin reaction unit ≥550. Aspirin resistance was detected in 42 patients. Aspirin resistance was present in 25.6% of the patients with poor blood pressure control, while in 17.8% of the patients with controlled blood pressure (P=.182). Female gender and creatinine levels were significantly higher (P=.028 and P=.030, respectively), while platelet count was significantly lower (P=.007) in aspirin‐resistant patients. Multivariate analysis revealed that female gender (odds ratio [OR], 2.445; P=.045), creatinine levels (OR, 1.297; P=.015) and platelet count (OR, 0.993; P=.005) were independent predictors of aspirin resistance. The frequency of aspirin resistance is not low in hypertensive patients. Female hypertensive patients, especially, with higher creatinine levels and lower platelet count are at higher risk for aspirin resistance.
Clinical Predictors of Stress‐Induced Transient Left Ventricular Dilatation in Patients With Nonsignificant Coronary Disease
Authors: Brodov Yafim , Guetta Victor , Di Segni Elio , Chouraqui Pierre
Published: May 2010

J Clin Hypertens (Greenwich). 2010;12:693–697. ©2010 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Left ventricular transient dilatation (TD) during stress myocardial perfusion imaging has been associated with extensive and severe coronary artery disease (CAD). The authors investigated the clinical predictors of TD in patients with nonsignificant CAD. The authors retrospectively studied 134 consecutive patients with exercise (n=59) or dipyridamole (n=75) stress‐induced TD who had undergone coronary angiography within 6 months of the test. Significant CAD was defined as diameter stenosis ≥70% in at least one major coronary artery, and significant left main disease as >50% diameter stenosis. Angiographically‐significant CAD was found in 126 patients (94%), and nonsignificant CAD in the remaining 8 patients (6%). No differences in gender, history of smoking, hyperlipidemia, family history of CAD, body mass index, and left ventricular ejection fraction were found between patients with significant and nonsignificant CAD. All 8 nonsignificant CAD patients had a history of either hypertension (7/8) or electrocardiographic criteria for left ventricular hypertrophy (1/8), compared with 58% of the hypertensive patients in the significant CAD group (P=.02). Nonsignificant CAD patients were also characterized by lack of diabetes mellitus (P=.05) or prior myocardial infarction (P=.05). Hypertension seems to be an important clinical predictor of TD in patients with nonsignificant CAD.
Health Social Movements in the United States: An Overview
Authors: Archibald Matthew E. , Crabtree Charity
Published: May 2010

This article reviews the literature on health social movements (HSMs) and provides an overview of their main conceptual, theoretical and empirical underpinnings. Health social movements is not a single paradigm but spans several decades’ worth of theoretical and research activity in the areas of social movements, medical sociology and social studies in science. Case studies of HSMs have been accumulating for years, and several new collections of papers attempt to systematize the various strands of health social movements research to answer questions about their origins, different strategic and political approaches to social change, their trajectories and consequences. We provide a selective overview of the literature on health social movements that explore these questions, while distinguishing between health social movements seeking greater access to healthcare, those focusing on health disparities and inequality, and those challenging the underlying science of health and healthcare. We conclude with some suggestions for the direction of future studies.
Sociology and the Two Faces of Human Rights
Authors: Morris Lydia
Published: May 2010

This article begins with a reference to Turner and Water’s debate over a foundational versus constructionist approach to human rights. Noting some scope for complementarity between the two, it moves on to consider a different divide; human rights discourse as the driver of expressive and expansive social movements; and human rights practice as deployed in the interests of power and control. The former is explored in relation to rights, recognition and ‘cosmopolitanisation’, and the latter in relation to closure, deficit and false universals. A return to the classics is suggested as one route to furthering analysis and understanding of both perspectives.
Mothering, Guilt and Shame
Authors: Sutherland Jean‐Anne
Published: May 2010

Even as research continues to explore mothering experiences and social psychologists consider the costs of guilt and shame, few empirical works have examined the relationships among mothering, guilt and shame. The idea that guilt and shame are necessary components of mothering is widespread. A few sources take seriously the emotions of guilt and shame nor has considerable thought been given to the social nature of guilt and shame. Rather than accept a purely psychological explanation of guilt and shame, I investigate the institutional and interactional dynamics that fuel women’s drives to perform as ‘the good mother’. In particular, I explore the ‘good mothering’ ideology that places mothers at risk of guilt and shame and then two social and institutional spaces where guilt and shame are likely to be prevalent.
Apoptosis initiation and angiogenesis inhibition: melanoma targets for nanosecond pulsed electric fields
Authors: Chen Xinhua , Kolb Juergen F. , Swanson R. James , Schoenbach Karl H. , Beebe Stephen J.
Published: May 2010

Many effective anti‐cancer strategies target apoptosis and angiogenesis mechanisms. Applications of non‐ionizing, nanosecond pulsed electric fields (nsPEFs) induce apoptosis in vitro and eliminate cancer in vivo; however in vivo mechanisms require closer analysis. These studies investigate nsPEF‐induced apoptosis and anti‐angiogenesis examined by fluorescent microscopy, immunoblots, and morphology. Six hours after treatment with one hundred 300 ns pulses at 40 kV/cm, cells transiently expressed active caspases indicating that caspase‐mediated mechanisms. Three hours after treatment transient peaks in Histone 2AX phosphorylation coincided with terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase dUTP nick end labeling positive cells and pyknotic nuclei, suggesting caspase‐independent mechanisms on nuclei/DNA. Large DNA fragments, but not 180 bp fragmentation ladders, were observed, suggesting incomplete apoptosis. Nevertheless, tumor weight and volume decreased and tumors disappeared. One week after treatment, vessel numbers, vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), platelet derived endothelial cell growth factor (PD‐ECGF), CD31, CD35 and CD105 were decreased, indicating anti‐angiogenesis. The nsPEFs activate multiple melanoma therapeutic targets, which is consistent with successes of nsPEF applications for tumor treatment in vivo as a new cancer therapeutic modality.
Clinical outcomes of laparoscopic colonic resection for diverticular disease in Japanese patients
Authors: Akagi T , Inomata M , Etoh T , Yasuda K , Shiraishi N , Kitano S
Published: May 2010

Introduction: Indications for laparoscopic surgery for colonic diverticular disease have not been established in Japan despite this being a relatively common disease. We studied surgical outcomes of laparoscopic colon resection (LCR) versus open colon resection (OCR) for diverticular disease.

Methods: We retrospectively reviewed surgical outcomes of 21 patients with colonic diverticulitis.

Results: Of these 21 patients, 11 underwent OCR, and 10 underwent LCR. There were no differences in age, sex, and BMI between the groups. Diverticulitis in the LCR group, compared to the OCR group, was characterized as being of the uncomplicated type with a right‐side location (P<0.01). Volume of blood loss and duration of postoperative hospital stay were less in the LCR group than in the OCR group (P<0.05). There were no significant differences in operative times, duration to start of solid food intake, and rate of postoperative complications.

Conclusion: These results suggest that LCR for diverticulitis can be performed safely and less invasively without increased morbidity for uncomplicated diverticulitis. Further studies will be needed to determine the benefits of LCR for complicated diverticulitis.
Intestinal hyperammonaemia in horses
Authors: Dunkel B.
Published: May 2010

Intestinal hyperammonaemia in horses is a syndrome putatively caused by increased intestinal production and/or absorption of ammonia that clinically manifests as severe neurological abnormalities often in conjunction with signs of gastrointestinal dysfunction but without evidence of hepatic compromise. Ingestion of Black Locust (Robinia pseudoacacia) is a novel primary condition that may predispose to development of the syndrome as described in this issue. Treatment of the condition is symptomatic and aimed at decreasing blood ammonium concentrations by reducing further production and absorption, reducing brain oedema and preventing self‐inflicted trauma. Prognosis for survival is guarded, particularly in cases with severe gastrointestinal lesions, and is influenced by the ability to control clinical signs.
Regulation of AMPA receptor channels and synaptic plasticity by cofilin phosphatase Slingshot in cortical neurons
Authors: Yuen Eunice Y. , Liu Wenhua , Kafri Tal , Van Praag Henriette , Yan Zhen
Published: May 2010

Cofilin, the major actin depolymerizing factor, modulates actin dynamics that contribute to spine morphology, synaptic transmission and plasticity. Much evidence implicates the cofilin inactivation kinase LIMK in synaptic function, but little is known about the cofilin activation phosphatase Slingshot in this regard. In this study, we found that suppressing endogenous Slingshot with small RNA interference or function‐blocking antibody led to a dramatic reduction of AMPA receptor‐mediated excitatory postsynaptic currents (EPSCs) in cortical neurons. Perturbation of Slingshot function also diminished the ability to express synaptic plasticity. Inactivating cofilin or disturbing actin dynamics reduced AMPAR‐EPSCs in a Slingshot‐dependent manner. Moreover, surface GluR 1 and synaptic GluR2/3 clusters were reduced by Slingshot knockdown. Our data suggest that Slingshot plays a pivotal role in AMPAR trafficking and synaptic transmission by controlling actin cytoskeleton via cofilin activation.
Exercise training inhibits inflammatory cytokines and more than prevents myocardial dysfunction in rats with sustained β‐adrenergic hyperactivity
Authors: Serra Andrey J. , Santos Marília H. H. , Bocalini Danilo S. , Antônio Ednei L. , Levy Rozeli F. , Santos Alexandra A. , Higuchi Maria L. , Silva Jr. José A. , Magalhães Flávio C. , Baraúna Valério G. , Krieger José E. , Tucci Paulo J. F.
Published: May 2010

Myocardial hypertrophy and dysfunction occur in response to excessive catecholaminergic drive. Adverse cardiac remodelling is associated with activation of proinflammatory cytokines in the myocardium. To test the hypothesis that exercise training can prevent myocardial dysfunction and production of proinflammatory cytokines induced by β‐adrenergic hyperactivity, male Wistar rats were assigned to one of the following four groups: sedentary non‐treated (Con); sedentary isoprenaline treated (Iso); exercised non‐treated (Ex); and exercised plus isoprenaline (Iso+Ex). Echocardiography, haemodynamic measurements and isolated papillary muscle were used for functional evaluations. Real‐time RT‐PCR and Western blot were used to quantify tumour necrosis factor α, interleukin‐6, interleukin‐10 and transforming growth factor β1 (TGF‐β1) in the tissue. NF‐κB expression in the nucleus was evaluated by immunohistochemical staining. The Iso rats showed a concentric hypertrophy of the left ventricle (LV). These animals exhibited marked increases in LV end‐diastolic pressure and impaired myocardial performance in vitro, with a reduction in the developed tension and maximal rate of tension increase and decrease, as well as worsened recruitment of the Frank–Starling mechanism. Both gene and protein levels of tumour necrosis factor α and interleukin‐6, as well as TGF‐β1 mRNA, were increased. In addition, the NF‐κB expression in the Iso group was significantly raised. In the Iso+Ex group, the exercise training had the following effects: (1) it prevented LV hypertrophy; (ii) it improved myocardial contractility; (3) it avoided the increase of proinflammatory cytokines and improved interleukin‐10 levels; and (4) it attenuated the increase of TGF‐β1 mRNA. Thus, exercise training in a model of β‐adrenergic hyperactivity can avoid the adverse remodelling of the LV and inhibit inflammatory cytokines. Moreover, the cardioprotection is related to beneficial effects on myocardial performance.
Study on Vertical Component Seismic Isolation System With Coned Disk Spring
Authors: Kitamura S. , Morishita M. , Moro S.
Published: May 2010

A structural concept of a vertical component isolation system for fast reactors, assuming a building adopting a horizontal base isolation system, has been studied. In this concept, a reactor vessel and major primary components are suspended from a large common deck supported by isolation devices consisting of large coned disk springs. The outline of the vertical component seismic isolation system and a series of model tests with full scale coned disk spring and damper are shown in this paper.
Study on Three-Dimensional Seismic Isolation System for Next-Generation Nuclear Power Plant: Hydraulic Three-Dimensional Base Isolation System
Authors: Shimada Takahiro , Fujiwaka Tatsuya , Moro Satoshi
Published: May 2010

In Japan, a number of three-dimensional base isolation systems have been studied for application to new nuclear plant concepts such as the FBR, but these efforts have not so far yielded practically applicable results. The impeding factor has been the difficulty of obtaining an adequate capacity on the vertical isolator for supporting the mass of an actual structure and for suppressing rocking motion. In this paper, we propose a new three-dimensional isolation system that should solve the foregoing problem. The system is constituted of a set of hydraulic load-carrying cylinders connected to accumulator units containing compressed gas, a set of rocking-suppression cylinders connected in series, and a laminated rubber bearing laid under each load-carrying cylinder. The present paper covers a basic examination for applying the proposed system to a FBR plant now under development in Japan. In order to verify expected system performance, the load-carrying cylinders were first tested independently of rocking-suppression cylinders, and this was followed by integrated dynamic test of the system incorporating both load-carrying and rocking suppression cylinders. Response analysis reflecting the test results has indicated the proposed system to be well applicable to the envisaged commercialized FBR. The study was undertaken as part of a research and development project sponsored by the government for realizing a three-dimensional seismic isolation system applicable to future FBR.
Three-Dimensional Seismic Isolation Device With Rolling Seal Type Air Spring
Authors: Hagiwara Tetsuya , Suhara Junji , Moro Satoshi
Published: May 2010

Three dimensional (3D) seismic isolation device has been developed to use for the base isolation system of the heavy building like a nuclear reactor building. The developed device is the 3D seismic isolation device that consists of the laminated rubber bearing as a horizontal isolation device and the rolling seal type air spring as the vertical isolation device in series. As the lead rubber bearing and the air spring are individually widely utilized with the general buildings and industrial structures, their reliability is high. However, when these pieces of equipment are combined, the issues that should be developed arise. The prospect of the technical feasibility of the device has already been acquired by feasibility test. In this study, a 1/12-scaled model of a 3D base isolation device is manufactured and the four tests are carried out. The four tests are dynamic vertical and horizontal test, orifice-damping test, pressure resistant ability test, and accelerated aging test. As the results of the tests, the developed 3D seismic isolation device is confirmed to be applicable to a nuclear power plant.
Multi-Axial Hysteretic Models of Laminated Rubber Bearings
Authors: Yoshida Junji , Abe Masato , Fujino Yozo
Published: May 2010

Base-Isolation system using laminated rubber bearings is considered to be an efficient technology of providing a mitigation of seismic damage for structures and equipments, and has proven to be reliable and cost-effective. There are many structures in various countries, which concern not only new constructions but also existing structures, especially after the Loma Prieta (1989), Northridge (1994) and Kobe (1995) earthquakes. Since seismic response of base-isolated structures greatly depends on the mechanical properties of the bearings, deep understanding of the characteristics of the bearings under the conditions of interest is essential toward a rational design of the base-isolation. Considering that the base isolation system in the two horizontal directions has already been used in the bridges and buildings, behaviors of the bearings under the multi-axial loading should be studied experimentally. In the actual design of multi-axial base-isolated structures, bilinear models have often been used independently in the two horizontal directions, and the coupling effects of hysteretic loops are not considered (AASHATO 1999; JRA 1998). Mokha et al. (1990) investigated the behaviors of Teflon friction bearings under tri-axial loading, and proposed a model for this type of bearings (Constantinou et al. 1990; Mokha et al. 1993). Multi-axial behaviors of a HDR and a steel damper have been investigated by Yasaka et al. (1988), and they empirically developed a multi-spring model, in which several bilinear springs or Ramberg-Osgood springs are circularly arranged with regular angle intervals. Huang et al. (2000) investigated the characteristics of tri-axial behaviors of a LRB and proposed a multi-axial model by considering a circular force interaction function of the bilinear model. However, systematic studies have not been conducted on the experimental investigation of several types of laminated rubber bearings. In addition, previously proposed models for laminated rubber bearings do not have definite theoretical backgrounds in the extension into multi-axial case, and they also do not consider the hardening behaviors in the large deformation range. In this paper, multi-axial restoring forces of various types of laminated rubber bearings, which have widely been used in the base-isolated bridges, are investigated experimentally. Then, a one-dimensional and two-dimensional models of the bearings are proposed on the basis of the experimental results.
An Experimental Study of Base Isolation Devices Using Shape Memory Alloy Wires
Authors: Yamashita Yoshitaka , Masuda Arata , Sone Akira
Published: May 2010

In this study, we develop a base isolation device using SMA wires. Two types of SMA springs are used as softening springs, i.e. ring-type-spring (RTS) and buckling-type-spring (BTS). BTSs’ restoring forces have significant softening characteristics, which suppresses the acceleration transmissibility. Cyclic loading tests are conducted to investigate the durability of the SMA springs. The results show that they have the enough durability for seismic isolation.
Vibration Control of Structures by Using Multi-Degree-of-Freedom Dynamic Absorber
Authors: Iba Daisuke , Sone Akira , Masuda Arata
Published: May 2010

This paper proposes a multi-degree-of-freedom dynamic absorber, which has multiple auxiliary masses and can suppress multiple vibration modes of structures passively during earthquake. The designable parameters of the dynamic absorber are determined by utilizing a theory of H∞ static output feedback control and by solving a Bilinear-Matrix-Inequality (BMI) problem. Finally, numerical simulations for the two-degree-of-freedom dynamic absorber show the advantages of the proposed method compared with the conventional single-degree-of-freedom dynamic absorber.
Wavelet-Based Damage Detection of Multi-Degree-of-Freedom Structures
Authors: Hashimoto Yuito , Masuda Arata , Sone Akira
Published: May 2010

In this paper, a method is proposed to identify the occurrence and the location of damage from the responses of multi-degree-of-freedom (MDOF) structures based on the wavelet transform, which has the capacity to detect discontinuities and singularities. First, the propagation of singularities in responses is investigated qualitatively in order to explain how the structural responses are influenced by sudden changes of structural parameters (stiffness) resulting from damages. Next, in order to confirm the proposed method for complicated models, we evaluate the influence of sudden changes of structural parameters on responses quantitatively, and the relations between the wavelet transform and the damage location by the aid of the state space representation of the MDOF structures. Finally, laboratory-scale experiments are carried out to verify the performance and detectability of the proposed methods in a fourth story structural model installed by additional stiffness members.
Detection and Identification of Bridges Considering Soil Effect
Authors: Pu Jun-Ping , Fang Yao-Min , Chen Hung-Ren , Huang Jian-Fa
Published: May 2010

Unexpected collapses and near collapse of bridges during the 1999 Chi-Chi earthquake underline the need for effective structural monitoring. Periodic structural condition monitoring of bridge structures is necessary to ensure that they provide a continued and safe service. A systematic study of typical bridges is needed, focusing on identifying elastic analytical models that will incorporate the existing state of bridge. To establish dynamic monitoring as a routine bridge inspection method, the soil-structure model of these two bridges are established and compared theoretically and experimentally.
Study on Nonlinear Vibration of Continuum System With Gaps Considering Energy Dissipated by Collision
Authors: Shintani Masanori , Ikuta Hiroyuki , Kotera Tadashi
Published: May 2010

This paper deals with nonlinear vibration of a continuum system with gaps under random waves considered collision phenomena. In order to investigate this nonlinear vibration characteristic, experiments are carried out with an experimental apparatus consisting of a nonlinear vibration system. Moreover, an analytical model of the cubic equation is proposed based on the restoring force characteristics in the experiments. This analytical model is used for the simulation analysis, and its results are compared with the experimental results. However, the results show differences between thick plates and thin plates in the root-mean-square (R.M.S.) value of the response acceleration and the transfer function. The ratio of the kinetic energy of the experimental results and the simulation results is investigated. Consequently, energy is dissipated in the experiments. It is found that the energy dissipated by collision phenomena causes these results. In order to measure the coefficient of restitution by the collision phenomena between the plate and the mass, an experimental apparatus for the collision effect is made. Experiments are carried out with this apparatus. The experimental results agree with part of the results of the ratios of kinetic energy. It is clear that the analytical model in consideration for the energy dissipated by the collision effect is required.
Introduction of E-Defense Project With Recent Progress: A 3-D Full-Scale Earthquake Testing Facility Under Construction
Authors: Ogawa Nobuyuki , Kajiwara Koichi , Sato Masayoshi
Published: May 2010

After the great Hanshin-Awaji earthquake disaster, the National Research Institute for Earth Science and Disaster Prevention (NIED) and the Science and Technology Agency of the Japanese Government (STA) planned to build a three-dimensional, full-scale, earthquake-testing facility (E-Defense) as one of the core research facilities for earthquake disaster prevention. It is hoped to be able to carry large-scale structures and to simulate the process of dynamic collapse using three-dimensional, strong earthquake records. For this purpose, the NIED (http://www.bosai.go.jp) has developed large actuators and related components from 1995 and completed them in 1998. After that, the NIED and the STA began the design and construction of the new facility in the fiscal year of 1998, and now, the construction work is in final stage at Miki City, near Kobe, Japan. It is scheduled to be completed by the beginning of 2005. In this paper, the basic performance and features of this new facility and the outline of recent construction work are summarized.
Component Test and Mathematical Modeling of Advanced Unbounded Brace
Authors: Tsai C. S. , Chiang Tsu-Cheng , Chen Bo-Jen , Chen Wen-Shin , Yu Shih-Hsien
Published: May 2010

The energy absorbing devices have been recognized as effective tools for dissipating the earthquake-induced energy during earthquakes. Several kinds of metallic-yielding, viscous and friction dampers have been proposed, tested and adopted in engineering applications in recent years. In this study, results from experimental and numerical studies of an advanced unbounded brace, or named as the advanced buckling restrained brace (advanced BRB), have been introduced. The experimental results from the component tests under cyclic loadings show that the proposed device possesses good stability and durability in mechanical behavior. Results from numerical studies of a 10-storey steel structure with proposed devices subjected to different earthquakes show that the advanced BRB can lessen the column shear forces as well as the storey drifts of the structure efficiently. Based on this investigation, the proposed isolator can be adopted as an effective tool for enhancing the seismic resistance of structures during earthquakes.
Photoionization study of deep centers in GaN∕AlGaN multiple quantum wells
Authors: Zhang S. K. , Wang W. B. , Alfano R. R. , Teke A. , He L. , Dogan S. , Johnstone D. J. , Morkoç H.
Published: May 2010

Transient photocapacitance (TPC) measurements were performed to investigate deep centers in GaN∕AlGaN multiple quantum wells. The influence of the persistent photovoltaic effect was successfully separated during the TPC experiments. The resolution obtained by the TPC measurements is much better than that of steady-state photocapacitance. The spectral dependence of photoionization cross section of deep centers in GaN is quantitatively determined in the energy range from 1.68to3.30eV. The absolute values of photoionization cross sections of these centers are found to be of the order of 10−15–10−14cm2.
Thermal expansion of GaSb measured by temperature dependent x-ray diffraction
Authors: Nilsen Tron Arne , Breivik Magnus , Myrvågnes Geir , Fimland Bjørn-Ove
Published: May 2010

X-ray diffraction measurements were performed using a modified zone technique on Te-doped GaSb wafers, commonly used for molecular beam epitaxial growth, at temperatures between 32 and 546 °C to determine the thermal expansion. The authors found the thermal expansion to be very close to the data published by Bublik et al. [Phys. Status Solidi A 73, K271 (1982)]. Control measurements of the lattice constant of Si were found to agree with the results published by Okada and Tokumaru [J. Appl. Phys. 56, 314 (1984)] within our measurement error of ±2×10−4 Å. A fourth order polynomial, a(GaSb)(T)=6.0959+3.37×10−5T+5.63×10−8T2−1.29×10−10T3+1.05×10−13T4 (Å) (T in °C), was found to be a good fit to our data, while a linear fit with a constant thermal expansion coefficient of 7.17×10−6 K−1 was found to be a poorer fit.
X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy investigation of oxidation states in molybdenum thin films for Cu(InGa)Se2 applications
Authors: Kang Y. C. , Khanal R. , Park J. Y. , Ramsier R. D. , Khatri H. , Marsillac S.
Published: May 2010

Sputter deposited Mo thin films on soda-lime glass are studied by x-ray photoelectron spectroscopy. It is found that the proportion of metallic Mo at the surface decreases and the number of Mo6+ species increases as the Ar gas pressure used for sputtering is increased. Sodium, diffusing during deposition from the substrate, is also detected on the surface of the Mo thin films. The implications for optimizing Mo thin films for Cu(InGa)Se2 applications are discussed.
Driving Drug Discovery: The Fundamental Role of Academic Labs
Authors: Silber B. Michael
Published: May 2010

Researchers at academic labs make almost all of the basic science
discoveries that underlie the creation of innovative new medicines.
Sudden Death in Epilepsy: A Shot to the Heart?
Authors: Minzenberg Michael J.
Published: May 2010

Altered neural signaling during seizures can lead to fatal cardiac arrhythmias, possibly accounting for sudden unexplained deaths in patients with epilepsy.
Your Genome Is Ready
Authors: Morozov Alexei
Published: May 2010

Whole-genome sequencing will soon become easily available, but many challenges lie ahead.
Teleseismic studies of the Canadian landmass: Lithoprobe and its legacyThis article is one of a series of papers published in this Special Issue on the themeLithoprobe — parameters, processes, and the evolution of a continent.ESS Contribution 20090305.
Authors: Bostock M.G. , Eaton D.W. , Snyder D.B.
Published: May 2010

Although teleseismic research was only modestly represented within the Lithoprobe program, the analysis of deeper lithospheric structure beneath Canada using teleseismic methods has intensified in the past decade. This development is due in large part to a legacy of improved understanding of shallower lithospheric structures afforded by Lithoprobe. Most recent teleseismic experiments have been conducted in regions lying within Lithoprobe transects and coverage is particularly good in the Slave Province, southern and eastern Ontario, and southwestern British Columbia. A number of key results have arisen out of this collective body of work. Studies on the Slave Province and environs have placed strong constraints on the origin of the high-velocity continental root that underlies most of the Canadian Shield. Fine-scale, anisotropic stratigraphy in this region has been definitively tied to underplated lithosphere, indicating that shallow subduction has played a fundamental role in craton stabilization. Modification of continental lithosphere by the underlying convecting mantle has been extensively documented in the southeastern Canadian Shield and Slave Province, yielding insights into the forces driving plate motion and those that induce intraplate volcanism. Teleseismic investigations in British Columbia point to the importance of water in controlling the structure and dynamics of subduction zones, but have rekindled controversy concerning the location and characterization of the downgoing oceanic plate.