bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Nile Red Detection of Bacterial Hydrocarbons and Ketones in a High-Throughput Format
Authors: Pinzon Neissa M. , Aukema Kelly G. , Gralnick Jeffrey A. , Wackett Lawrence P.
Published: June 2011

A method for use in high-throughput screening of bacteria for the production of long-chain hydrocarbons and ketones by monitoring fluorescent light emission in the presence of Nile red is described. Nile red has previously been used to screen for polyhydroxybutyrate (PHB) and fatty acid esters, but this is the first report of screening for recombinant bacteria making hydrocarbons or ketones. The microtiter plate assay was evaluated using wild-type and recombinant strains of
Shewanella oneidensis
and
Escherichia coli
expressing the enzyme OleA, previously shown to initiate hydrocarbon biosynthesis. The strains expressing exogenous
Stenotrophomonas maltophilia
oleA
, with increased levels of ketone production as determined by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry, were distinguished with Nile red fluorescence. Confocal microscopy images of
S. oneidensis oleA
-expressing strains stained with Nile red were consistent with a membrane localization of the ketones. This differed from Nile red staining of bacterial PHB or algal lipid droplets that showed intracellular inclusion bodies. These results demonstrated the applicability of Nile red in a high-throughput technique for the detection of bacterial hydrocarbons and ketones.

IMPORTANCE
In recent years, there has been renewed interest in advanced biofuel sources such as bacterial hydrocarbon production. Previous studies used solvent extraction of bacterial cultures followed by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) to detect and quantify ketones and hydrocarbons (Beller HR, Goh EB, Keasling JD, Appl. Environ. Microbiol. 76:1212–1223, 2010; Sukovich DJ, Seffernick JL, Richman JE, Gralnick JA, Wackett LP, Appl. Environ. Microbiol. 76:3850–3862, 2010). While these analyses are powerful and accurate, their labor-intensive nature makes them intractable to high-throughput screening; therefore, methods for rapid identification of bacterial strains that are overproducing hydrocarbons are needed. The use of high-throughput evaluation of bacterial and algal hydrophobic molecule production via Nile red fluorescence from lipids and esters was extended in this study to include hydrocarbons and ketones. This work demonstrated accurate, high-throughput detection of high-level bacterial long-chain ketone and hydrocarbon production by screening for increased fluorescence of the hydrophobic dye Nile red.
Variations of Brain Activities of Acupuncture to TE5 of Left Hand in Normal Subjects
Authors: Hsu Sheng-Feng , Chen Chien-Yue , Ke Ming-Da , Huang Chien-Hsun , Sun Yuan-Ting , Lin Jaung-Geng
Published: June 2011

This paper presents the evident effects of acupoint stimulation, using EEG (electroencephalogram) measurements. With acupuncture stimulation and the EEG measurement on the same meridian, EEG is able to accurately detect the effects of acupunctural point stimulation on brain waves.

In this study, 24 subjects without heart or neural diseases were randomly separated into two groups of 12, named test and control groups. Similar procedures are performed; the subjects lay on a bed with eyes closed for ten minutes as the baseline. The test group received acupuncture at their Waiguan points (TE5) on their left hands for 20 minutes, while the control group did not. EEGs are recorded during pre-acupuncture, acupuncture stimulation and post-acupuncture stimulation periods. The EEG electrodes are at the T3, T4, O1 and O2 locations. Continuous wavelet transformation analysis is adopted; therefore, EEGs are divided into the following bands: δ (0.5–4HZ), θ (4–8HZ), α (8–13HZ) and β (13–30HZ).

During acupuncture stimulation, the θ energy is increased and had statistical differences at all electrode points, T3, T4, O1 and O2. Upon removing the needle, the energy at the T3 and T4 points slowly declined and revealed obvious statistical differences. During acupuncture, only α energy has been noted to have statistical difference and it was increased at the T3 point. However, the energy was decreased and had no statistical difference after five minutes.

Acupuncture is proven to be able to affect brain waves, as the stimulation might have changed the tissues between the cranium and scalp; therefore, the brain waves are detected more easily.
THEORY OF THE CARRIER FERMI ENERGY AND DENSITY OF STATES OF n- and p-TYPE SnTe
Authors: DAS R. K. , MOHAPATRO S.
Published: June 2011

In the present work we theoretically develop a k⋅π model to calculate the carrier electronic structure for both n- and p-type SnTe . Here π is the momentum operator in the presence of the spin–orbit interaction. The work is an extension of the theory developed for n- and p- PbTe earlier by one of the authors to evaluate the Fermi energy and the density of states (DOS). We consider a six-level energy basis for SnTe , as proposed by Bernick and Kleinman. One set of calculations was done by diagonalizing the k⋅π Hamiltonian matrix for the band-edge states and treating the far bands using perturbation theory. In the second set we have rediagonalized the k⋅π Hamiltonian matrix for the band edge states, treating the first diagonalization as the basis. The far bands are, as usual, included through perturbation. We have compared the results of both the sets. Results obtained for n- and p-type SnTe are also compared with that of n- and p-type PbTe . The similarities and contrasts are discussed. An indirect comparison with the DOS of the metallic tin suggests that the calculations are fairly reasonable. The results are also compared with some recent results for SnTe .
EXTREMELY SHORT OPTICAL PULSES IN CARBON NANOTUBES IN DISPERSIVE NONMAGNETIC DIELECTRIC MEDIA
Authors: YANYUSHKINA NATALIA N. , BELONENKO MIKHAIL B. , LEBEDEV NIKOLAY G. , ZHUKOV ALEXANDER V. , PALIY MAXIM
Published: June 2011

We consider Maxwell equations for an electromagnetic field propagating in carbon nanotubes (CNTs) placed on a dispersive nonmagnetic dielectric medium. We obtain the effective equation analogous to the classical sine-Gordon equation. Then it has been analyzed numerically. We have revealed the dependence of the pulse on the type of CNT and on the initial pulse amplitude, as well as on the medium dispersion constants.
ON THE SOLVABILITY OF GROUPS WITH FOUR CLASS SIZES
Authors: BELTRÁN ANTONIO , FELIPE MARÍA JOSÉ
Published: June 2011

It is shown that if the set of conjugacy class sizes of a finite group G is {1, m, n, mn}, where m, n are positive integers which do not divide each other, then G is up to central factors a {p, q}-group. In particular, G is solvable.
CONVOLUTION FOR THE DISCRETE WAVELET TRANSFORM
Authors: PATHAK R. S.
Published: June 2011

Translation and convolution associated with the discrete wavelet transform are investigated using properties of Calderón–Zygmund operator and Riesz fractional integral operator. Dual convolution is also studied. The wavelet convolution is applied to approximate functions belonging to certain Lp-spaces.
A NOVEL APPROACH FOR FACE RECOGNITION BASED ON FAST LEARNING ALGORITHM AND WAVELET NETWORK THEORY
Authors: ZAIED MOURAD , SAID SALWA , JEMAI OLFA , AMAR CHOKRI BEN
Published: June 2011

This paper presents a new approach of face recognition based on wavelet network using 2D fast wavelet transform and multiresolution analysis. This approach is divided in two stages: the training stage and the recognition stage. The first consists to approximate every training face image by a wavelet network. The second consists in recognition of a new test image by comparing it to all the training faces, the distances between this test face and all images from the training set are calculated in order to identify the searched person. The usual training algorithms presents some disadvantages when the weights of the wavelet network are computed by applying the back-propagation algorithm or by direct solution which requires computing an inversion of matrix, this computation may be intensive when the learning data is too large. We present in this paper our solutions to overcome these limitations. We propose a novel learning algorithm based on the 2D Fast Wavelet Transform. Furthermore, we have increased the performances of our algorithm by introducing the Levenberg–Marquardt method to optimize the learning functions and using the Beta wavelet which has at both an analytical expression and wavelet filter bank. Extensive empirical experiments are performed to compare the proposed method with other approaches as PCA, LDA, EBGM and RBF neural network using the ORL and FERET benchmarks.
A NEW PARAMETER OF ENTANGLEMENT FOR A QUBIT SYSTEM PLACED INSIDE A DISSIPATIVE CAVITY
Authors: ABDEL-KHALEK S. , OBADA A.-S. F.
Published: June 2011

The entanglement in a system of a single two-level trapped ion and a single-mode quantized field in a coherent state inside a phase-damped cavity is investigated. Analytic results under certain parametric conditions are obtained, by means of which we analyze the influence of dissipation on the atomic Fisher information and its marginal distribution. An interesting relation between the temporal entanglement sudden birth, sudden death, atomic Fisher information and the dissipation effect is observed.
Semiannual Cycle in Zonal Wind over the Equatorial Indian Ocean
Authors: Ogata Tomomichi , Xie Shang-Ping
Published: June 2011

The semiannual cycle in zonal wind over the equatorial Indian Ocean is investigated by use of ocean–atmospheric reanalyses, and linear ocean–atmospheric models. In observations, the semiannual cycle in zonal wind is dominant on the equator and confined in the planetary boundary layer (PBL). Results from a momentum budget analysis show that momentum advection generated by the cross-equatorial monsoon circulation is important for the semiannual zonal-wind cycle in the equatorial Indian Ocean. In experiments with a linearized primitive model of the atmosphere, semiannual momentum forcing due to the meridional advection over the central equatorial Indian Ocean is important to simulate the observed maxima of the semiannual cycle in equatorial zonal wind. Off Somalia, diabatic heating and surface friction over land weaken the semiannual response to large momentum forcing there. Results from a linear ocean model suggest that the semiannual zonal wind stress over the central equatorial Indian Ocean generates large semiannual variability in zonal current through a basin-mode resonance.
Professions, Organizations, and Institutions
Authors: Park Sangchan , Sine Wesley D. , Tolbert Pamela S.
Published: June 2011

A common strategy used by professions to support claims of workplace jurisdiction involves the institutionalization of professionally endorsed formal structures, yet both theory and research suggest that ensuring the implementation of such structures after formal adoption can be problematic. This study investigates the influence of organizational characteristics on the implementation of one professionally created institution in higher education organizations, tenure systems for faculty employment. Our results suggest that implementation of tenure systems is negatively affected by internal resource pressures but positively affected by countervailing pressures from professionally linked constituents. The results also suggest self-limiting aspects of the use of tenure systems.
Illuminance Level in the Urban Fabric and in the Room
Authors: Iversen Anne , Nielsen Toke R. , Svendsen Svend H.
Published: June 2011

The decisions made on the urban planning level could influence the building design at later stages. Many studies have shown that the utilisation of daylight in buildings would result in significant savings in electricity consumption for lighting, while creating a higher quality indoor environment. The surroundings of a building have a great influence on the indoor environment of that building. A major factor is the shading that the surrounding buildings could provide, blocking and diminishing the available amount of daylight in nearby buildings. This paper reports a study that combine the effect of the exterior illuminance levels on façades with the interior illuminance levels on the working plane. The paper also explains an easy to use tool (EvUrban-plan) developed by the authors, which was applied to their findings in the early stages of urban planning to ensure daylight optimisation in the buildings.
Targeting survivin overcomes drug resistance in acute lymphoblastic leukemia
Authors: Park Eugene , Gang Eun Ji , Hsieh Yao-Te , Schaefer Paul , Chae Sanna , Klemm Lars , Huantes Sandra , Loh Mignon , Conway Edward M. , Kang Eun-Suk , Hoe Koo Hong , Hofmann Wolf-Karsten , Heisterkamp Nora , Pelus Louis , Keerthivasan Ganesan , Crispino John , Kahn Michael , Müschen Markus , Kim Yong-Mi
Published: June 2011

Relapse of drug-resistant acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) has been associated with increased expression of survivin/BIRC5, an inhibitor of apoptosis protein, suggesting a survival advantage for ALL cells. In the present study, we report that inhibition of survivin in patient-derived ALL can eradicate leukemia. Targeting survivin with shRNA in combination with chemotherapy resulted in no detectable minimal residual disease in a xenograft model of primary ALL. Similarly, pharmacologic knock-down of survivin using EZN-3042, a novel locked nucleic acid antisense oligonucleotide, in combination with chemotherapy eliminated drug-resistant ALL cells. These findings show the importance of survivin expression in drug resistance and demonstrate that survivin inhibition may represent a powerful approach to overcoming drug resistance and preventing relapse in patients with ALL.
Active hepatitis C infection and HCV genotypes prevalent among the IDUs of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa
Authors: ur Rehman Latif , Ullah Ihasn , Ali Ijaz , Khan Imtiaz Ali , Iqbal Aqib , Khan Sanaullah , Khan Sher Hayat , Uz Zaman Khaleeq , ullah Khan Najib , Swati Zahoor Ahmed , Jahangiri Anila Tariq
Published: June 2011

Injection drug users (IDUs) are considered as a high risk group to develop hepatitis C due to needle sharing. In this study we have examined 200 injection drug users from various regions of the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province for the prevalence of active HCV infection and HCV genotypes by Immunochromatographic assays, RT-PCR and Type-specific PCR. Our results indicated that 24% of the IDUs were actively infected with HCV while anti HCV was detected among 31.5% cases. Prevalent HCV genotypes were HCV 2a, 3a, 4 and 1a. Majority of the IDUs were married and had attained primary or middle school education. 95% of the IDUs had a previous history of needle sharing. Our study indicates that the rate of active HCV infection among the IDUs is higher with comparatively more prevalence of the rarely found HCV types in KPK. The predominant mode of HCV transmission turned out to be needle sharing among the IDUs.
Interoperabilität von Engineering-Werkzeugen
Authors: Drath Rainer , Fay Alexander , Barth Mike
Published: June 2011

Interoperabilität zwischen Engineering-Werkzeugen beschreibt deren Fähigkeit zur Zusammenarbeit über Werkzeuggrenzen und Planungsphasen hinweg. Sie gilt als Schlüssel zur Effizienz, ist in der Praxis jedoch nur unzureichend anzutreffen. Dieser Beitrag gibt einen Überblick über aktuelle Ansätze, schlägt eine Methodik zur objektiven Bewertung der Offenheit von Engineering-Werkzeugen vor und erläutert ein Konzept zum Austausch gemeinsam genutzter Daten zwischen Engineering-Werkzeugen.
Merkmale als Grundlage der Interoperabilität technischer Systeme
Authors: Epple Ulrich
Published: June 2011

Interoperabilität beschreibt die Fähigkeit von eigenständig und unabhängig operierenden heterogenen Systemen ohne Hilfe von externen Einheiten zielgerichtet zusammenarbeiten zu können. Für die Interoperabilität spielt der Informationsaustausch zwischen den Systemen eine wesentliche Rolle. Für die Interoperabilität der technischen Systeme im Umfeld der industriellen Produktion müssen im Allgemeinen neben explizit festgelegten Zustandsinformationen auch Modellinformationen ausgetauscht werden. In diesem Beitrag wird ein Konzept vorgestellt, das mit standardisierten Ausprägungsaussagen zu Merkmalen einen einfachen und flexiblen Informationsaustausch unterstützt. Mit dem Konzept lassen sich Merkmalinformationen projektierungsfrei austauschen und nach einfachen Standardregeln bewerten.
Multivariate Optimization in the Biosynthesis of a Triethanolamine (TEA)-Based Esterquat Cationic Surfactant Using an Artificial Neural Network
Authors: Masoumi Hamid Reza Fard , Kassim Anuar , Basri Mahiran , Abdullah Dzulkifly Kuang , Haron Mohd Jelas
Published: June 2011

An Artificial Neural Network (ANN) based on the Quick Propagation (QP) algorithm was used in conjunction with an experimental design to optimize the lipase-catalyzed reaction conditions for the preparation of a triethanolamine (TEA)-based esterquat cationic surfactant. Using the best performing ANN, the optimum conditions predicted were an enzyme amount of 4.77 w/w%, reaction time of 24 h, reaction temperature of 61.9 °C, substrate (oleic acid: triethanolamine) molar ratio of 1:1 mole and agitation speed of 480 r.p.m. The relative deviation percentage under these conditions was less than 4%. The optimized method was successfully applied to the synthesis of the TEA-based esterquat cationic surfactant at a 2,000 mL scale. This method represents a more flexible and convenient means for optimizing enzymatic reaction using ANN than has been previously reported by conventional methods.
Observation of Long-Range Vicinal Effect in Chiral Cu(II)-Cr(VI) or Cu(II)-W(VI) Bimetallic Coordination Polymers
Authors: Hayashi Naoshi , Akitsu Takashiro
Published: June 2011

We have prepared some diastereomers of [CuL2][M2O7] (L is 1,2-diaminocyclohexane and its derivatives; M = Cr and W) bimetallic coordination polymers and confirmed their structural similarity and inner electronic states by means of XRD and XAS, respectively. For the first time, we have successfully observed distant vicinal effect of which the chiral source is only chiral organic ligands of [CuL2]2+ moieties (acting as ligand complex), while probe bands for solid state CD spectra are charge transfer (CT) bands of [M2O7]2− moieties (achiral complex) with the d0 electronic configuration. The new concept (interpretation) of this observation will be important for supramolecular chirality of coordination polymers built by ligand complexes.
Participatory Approach for Integrated Basin Planning with Focus on Disaster Risk Reduction: The Case of the Limpopo River
Authors: Spaliviero Mathias , Dapper Morgan De , M.Mannaerts Chris , Yachan Antonio
Published: June 2011

This paper defends the idea that a participatory approach is a suitable method for basin planning integrating both water and land aspects. Assertions made are based on scientific literature review and corroborated by field experience and research carried out in the Limpopo River basin, a transboundary river located in southern Africa which is affected by periodical floods. The paper explains how a basin strategic plan can be drafted and disaster risk reduction strategies derived by combining different types of activities using a bottom-up approach, despite an institutional context which operates through traditional top-down mechanisms. In particular, the “Living with Floods” experience in the lower Limpopo River, in Mozambique, is described as a concrete example of a disaster adaptation measure resulting from a participatory planning exercise. In conclusion, the adopted method and obtained results are discussed and recommendations are formulated for potential replication in similar contexts of the developing world.
Derivations and Valuation Rings
Authors: Fortuny Ayuso P.
Published: June 2011

A complete characterization of valuation rings closed for a holomorphic derivation is given, following an idea of Seidenberg, in dimension 2.
Experimental study of the role of physicochemical surface processing on the IN ability of mineral dust particles
Authors: Niedermeier D. , Hartmann S. , Clauss T. , Wex H. , Kiselev A. , Sullivan R. C. , DeMott P. J. , Petters M. D. , Reitz P. , Schneider J. , Mikhailov E. , Sierau B. , Stetzer O. , Reimann B. , Bundke U. , Shaw R. A. , Buchholz A. , Mentel T. F. , Stratmann F.
Published: June 2011

Abstract. During the measurement campaign FROST 2 (FReezing Of duST 2), the Leipzig Aerosol Cloud Interaction Simulator (LACIS) was used to investigate the influences of various surface modifications on the immersion freezing behavior of Arizona Test Dust (ATD) particles. The dust particles were exposed to sulfuric acid vapor, to water vapor with and without the addition of ammonia gas, and heat using a thermodenuder operating at 250 °C. Size selected, quasi monodisperse particles with a mobility diameter of 300 nm were fed into LACIS and droplets grew on these particles such that each droplet contained a single particle. Temperature dependent frozen fractions of these droplets were determined in a temperature range between −40 °C ≤ T ≤ −28 °C. The pure ATD particles nucleated ice over a~broad temperature range with their freezing behavior being separated into two freezing branches characterized through different slopes in the frozen fraction vs. temperature curves. Coating the ATD particles with sulfuric acid resulted in the particles' IN potential significantly decreasing in the first freezing branch (T > −35 °C) and a slight increase in the second branch (T≤ −35 °C). The addition of water vapor after the sulfuric acid coating caused the disappearance of the first freezing branch and a strong reduction of the IN ability in the second freezing branch. The presence of ammonia gas during water vapor exposure had a negligible effect on the particles' IN ability compared to the effect of water vapor. Heating in the thermodenuder led to a decreased IN ability of the sulfuric acid coated particles for both branches but the additional heat did not or only slightly change the IN ability of the pure ATD and the water vapor exposed sulfuric acid coated particles. In other words, the combination of both sulfuric acid and water vapor being present is a main cause for the ice active surface features of the ATD particles being destroyed. A possible explanation could be the chemical transformation of ice active metal silicates to metal sulfates. From an atmospheric point of view, and here specifically the influences of atmospheric aging on the IN ability of dust particles, the strongly enhanced reaction between sulfuric acid and dust in the presence of water vapor, and the resulting significant reductions in IN potential, are certainly very interesting.
Port Selection Factors and Attractiveness: The Service Providers' Perspective
Authors: Sanchez Ricardo J. , Ng Adolf K. Y. , Garcia-Alonso Lorena
Published: June 2011

This article investigates the major attributes in determining port attractiveness from the perspective of service providers. This was accomplished by conducting a questionnaire survey of ports located in Asian and Latin American countries. In comparing the present survey results with those of earlier surveys of service users (that is, shipping lines) by Ng (2006), special attention was paid to whether the perceptions of service providers and users conflicted with each other. This article provides constructive insight on port attractiveness, and offers a foundation for further research on port attractiveness and competition.
On Removable Sets of Solutions of Elliptic Equations
Authors: Gadjiev Tair S. , Arazm Mahammad-Rza I. , Mamedova Vafa A.
Published: June 2011

We consider a nondivergent elliptic equation of second order whose leading coefficients are from some weight space. The sufficient condition of removability of a compact with respect to this equation in the weight space of Hölder functions was found.
Planned Hernia Repair and Late Abdominal Wall Reconstruction
Authors: Leppäniemi Ari , Tukiainen Erkki
Published: June 2011

Planned ventral hernia is a management strategy in which the abdominal fascial layer has been left unclosed and the viscera are covered only with original or grafted skin. Leaving the fascia open can be deliberate or unavoidable and most commonly results from staged repair of the abdominal wall due to trauma, peritonitis, pancreatitis, abdominal vascular emergencies, or abdominal compartment syndrome. The abdominal wall defects can be categorized as type I or II defects depending on whether there is intact, stable skin coverage. In defects with intact skin coverage, the most commonly used methods are the components separation technique and a prosthetic repair, sometimes used in combination. The advantages of the components separation technique is the ability to close the linea alba at the midline, creating a better functional result than a repair with inert mesh. Although the reherniation risk seems higher after components separation, the risk of infection is considerably lower. With a type II defect, with absent or unstable skin coverage, fascial repair alone is inadequate. Of the more complex reconstruction techniques, the use of a free tensor fasciae latae (TFL) flap utilizing a saphenous vein arteriovenous loop is the most promising. The advantages of the TFL flap include constant anatomy of the pedicle, a strong fascial layer, large‐caliber vessels matching the size of the AV loop, and the ability to use large flaps (up to 20 × 35 cm). Whatever technique is used, the repair of complex abdominal wall defects requires close collaboration with plastic and abdominal surgeons, which is best managed in specialized centers.
Diversity and General Student Scholarship Recipient Essays: 2010 National Society of Genetic Counselors Membership Committee
Authors: Liu Tina , Patek Kyla , Schneider Kami Wolfe
Published: June 2011

In an effort to increase the diversity of the membership of the National Society of Genetic Counselors (NSGC), the Membership Committee provided two $500 scholarships to genetic counseling students planning to attend the NSGC AEC meeting in Dallas, Texas in October 2010. Requirements for applicants of both scholarships included enrollment in the fall of 2010, good standing at an accredited genetic counseling training program, and NSGC membership or plans to join in 2011. Students who are from communities underrepresented in the NSGC, including, but not limited to, those of minority cultural/ethnic backgrounds and those with disabilities were eligible to apply for the “Diversity” scholarship. Students from all backgrounds who have an interest in diversity issues were eligible to apply for the “General” scholarship. Applicants wrote essays 1000 words or less answering the following questions: How has your identity as a member of a group underrepresented in the genetic counseling profession affected your pursuit of this career? What do you feel is lacking in genetic counseling to address the issues of underrepresented groups? What strategies do you recommend for addressing these issues and/or increasing diversity? Why do you think diversity is an important issue for the field of genetic counseling? What strategies do you recommend to attract and retain students, especially those from underrepresented populations, into the field of genetic counseling? How do you envision contributing to these strategies? The essays by the award recipients elucidated interesting perspectives and ideas for increasing diversity in the genetic counseling profession.
Epigenetic regulation of microRNA‐375 and its role in melanoma development in humans
Authors: Mazar Joseph , DeBlasio Dan , Govindarajan Subramaniam S. , Zhang Shaojie , Perera Ranjan J.
Published: June 2011

To identify epigenetically regulated miRNAs in melanoma, we treated a stage 3 melanoma cell line WM1552C, with 5AzadC and/or 4‐PBA. Several hypermethylated miRNAs were detected, one of which, miR‐375, was highly methylated and was studied further. Minimal CpG island methylation was observed in melanocytes, keratinocytes, normal skin, and nevus but hypermethylation was observed in patient tissue samples from primary, regional, distant, and nodular metastatic melanoma. Ectopic expression of miR‐375 inhibited melanoma cell proliferation, invasion, and cell motility, and induced cell shape changes, strongly suggesting that miR‐375 may have an important function in the development and progression of human melanomas.
Heat release rate correlation and combustion noise in premixed flames
Authors: SWAMINATHAN N. , XU G. , DOWLING A. P. , BALACHANDRAN R.
Published: June 2011

The sound emission from open turbulent flames is dictated by the two-point spatial correlation of the rate of change of the fluctuating heat release rate. This correlation in premixed flames can be represented well using Gaussian-type functions and unstrained laminar flame thermal thickness can be used to scale the correlation length scale, which is about a quarter of the planar laminar flame thermal thickness. This correlation and its length scale are observed to be less influenced by the fuel type or stoichiometry or turbulence Reynolds and Damkohler numbers. The time scale for fluctuating heat release rate is deduced to be about τc/34 on an average, where τc is the planar laminar flame time scale, using direct numerical simulation (DNS) data. These results and the spatial distribution of mean reaction rate obtained from Reynolds-averaged Navier–Stokes (RANS) calculations of open turbulent premixed flames employing the standard model and an algebraic reaction rate closure, involving a recently developed scalar dissipation rate model, are used to obtain the far-field sound pressure level from open flames. The calculated values agree well with measured values for flames of different stoichiometry and fuel types, having a range of turbulence intensities and heat output. Detailed analyses of RANS results clearly suggest that the noise level from turbulent premixed flames having an extensive and uniform spatial distribution of heat release rate is low.
Glyceollins inhibit platelet-derived growth factor-mediated human arterial smooth muscle cell proliferation and migration
Authors: Kim Hyo Jung , Cha Byung-Yoon , Choi Bongkeun , Lim Ji Sun , Woo Je-Tae , Kim Jong-Sang
Published: June 2011

Platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF)-BB can induce abnormal proliferation and migration of vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMC) that are involved in the development of CVD. In our preliminary study, phytoalexin glyceollins (glyceollins I, II and III) isolated from soyabean seeds cultured withAspergillus sojaeshowed strong antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activity. Since antioxidants showed beneficial effects on chronic inflammatory diseases, the purpose of the present study was to examine the effects of glyceollins on PDGF-induced proliferation and migration in human aortic smooth muscle cells (HASMC). Incubation of resting HASMC with glyceollins for 24 h significantly diminished PDGF-increased cell number and DNA synthesis in a dose-dependent manner without any cytotoxicity. In addition to blocking of the PDGF-inducible progression through the G0/G1to the S phase of the cell cycle, glyceollins down-regulated the expression of cyclin-dependent kinase (CDK)2 and cyclin D1, and up-regulated the expression of CDK inhibitors such as p27kip1and p53.Glyceollins also effectively inhibited reactive oxygen species generation and phosphorylation of PDGF receptor-β, phospholipase Cγ1, Akt and extracellular signal-regulated kinase 1/2 by PDGF stimulation. Furthermore, glyceollins were found to inhibit PDGF-induced dissociation of actin filaments and cell migration. Thus, the results suggest that glyceollins could become a potent therapeutic agent for regulating VSMC-associated vascular disease such as atherosclerosis and restenosis after angioplasty.
Contra Academicos as autobiography: a critique of the historiography on Augustine's first extant dialogue
Authors: Squires Stuart
Published: June 2011

Contra Academicos is not one of Augustine's masterpieces and, as such, modern scholarship has largely ignored this text in favour of examining Augustine's more mature works. Scholars do, however, attempt to use it as a way of interpreting Augustine's psychological state of mind at the time of his conversion because this is his first extant text. I argue that this attempt at reading Contra Academicos as autobiography is dangerous because Augustine was deliberately offering a self-representation to a pagan-philosophical audience and, therefore, scholars should not attempt to interpret this dialogue as if it offered neutral insight into Augustine's state of mind around 386. This article will first review the history of the scholarship which has attempted to read Contra Academicos as autobiography to prove that Augustine was only a Neoplatonist at the time of his conversion, or to disprove this theory. In either case, the authors of both positions have relied on Contra Academicos to support their claims. Then, I will make three arguments why reading Contra Academicos as autobiography is dubious. First, I will argue that the literary genre of the dialogue shows that Augustine's intended audience was for pagan-philosophers. Second, I will argue that the dedication of the text shows that Augustine's audience is a pagan-philosophical audience. Augustine's dedicatee plays a larger role in this text than do most dedicatees of texts in late antiquity. Third, I will show that the specific content demonstrates that Augustine's text was focused on a pagan-philosophical audience. Augustine never quotes scripture but goes to great pains to demonstrate his knowledge of Vergil and Cicero.
Barth and subordinationism
Authors: Giles Kevin
Published: June 2011

This article examines claims that Barth teaches the eternal subordination and obedience of the Son to the Father which some mainline theologians think leads Barth into the error of subordinationism. This reading of Barth has had a revival in recent times among socially and theologically conservative evangelicals who have found support in Barth for their thesis that, just as the Son is set under the authority of the Father, so too are women set under the authority of men. In reply I argue that Barth's stress on divine unity and on the full divinity of Christ and his explicit rejection of ‘every form of subordinationism’ makes this thesis untenable. When the evidence for this view is examined none of it proves the point. Rather, it highlights Barth's innovative and mind-expanding understanding of the triune God who is high and humble and of the Son who is forever both Lord and servant at one and the same time. However, this is not to say that Barth's doctrine of the Trinity is not without its problems.
Scriptures, science and mythology: Astronomy in Indian cultures
Authors: Kochhar Rajesh
Published: June 2011

Human beings are born astronomers. Ever since they learnt to walk upright they have looked at the sky and wondered. The sky has remained the same but not its meaning. We can distinguish between three phases in the history of humankind's relationship with its cosmic environment: (i) propitiatory phase; (ii) negotiatory phase; and the current (iii) sky-as-an-object explanatory, phase. My concern here is to discuss the interplay between astronomy and culture in general in the Indian context. Much of the discussion belongs to the negotiatory phase. More specifically I discuss how in the formative era, sacred texts influenced astronomy, how these texts themselves were modified under the influence of new scientific developments, and how mythology was upgraded to keep pace with science.
In search of cosmic order: Astronomy and culture in Ancient Egypt
Authors: Belmonte Juan Antonio
Published: June 2011

Over the past five years, the Egyptian-Spanish Mission on the archaeoastronomy of ancient Egypt and its collaborators has been performing an ambitious scientific project with the aim of studying the cosmovision of the ancient civilization of the pharaohs. Part of the project has consisted of a re-analysis of the iconographic and historical sources that has allowed, among other things, a reassessment of the calendar theory and a new proposal for the sky-maps of ancient Egypt. For various reasons, Archaeoastronomy has not been one of the favourite disciplines of egyptologists in the past. Probably because of this, important questions such as the orientation of Egyptian temples and the relevance of astronomy in this respect had never been afforded with the requisite seriousness and depth. Our work has had among its various priorities, the solution of this problem. In order to achieve this, our team has so far measured the orientation of some 330 temples in the Valley, the Delta, the Oases and the Sinai. The aim is to find a correct and almost definitive answer to the question of whether the ancient Egyptian sacred constructions were astronomically aligned or not. Our results may provide an affirmative answer.
Some notes on the Inka constellations
Authors: Pacheco Elluz , Flores Soraya , Salazar Erwin
Published: June 2011

The research carried out so far on the identification of constellations in the Inka civilisation is far from exhaustive, as there is both a great difficulty in obtaining the data and much heterogeneity in the information gathered. A brief presentation is given here.
Islamic reception of Greek astronomy
Authors: Saliba George
Published: June 2011

Research in Islamic science over the last half century or so has clearly established that such old myths as Islamic science being a preservation of Greek science, or that science was always in conflict with religion in Islamic civilization as it was in Europe, or that the European scientific Renaissance was independent of outside influences –a European phenomenon par excellence– are now all subjects of great dispute if not altogether dead. In what follows I will illustrate the evidence that has put such myths into question with only few examples, since time and space do not allow me to elaborate more.
Kepler, Galileo and the birth of modern astronomy
Authors: Gingerich Owen
Published: June 2011

The International Year of Astronomy marks the 400th anniversary of Kepler's Astronomia nova and the first use of the telescope for astronomy, most notably leading to Galileo's Sidereus nuncius (1610). Kepler's book for the first time argued strongly for a physical basis to astronomical explanations. Galileo's work showed that a coherent understanding was more important for scientific progress than specific proofs. The efforts of both astronomers undermined the traditional geocentric cosmology and essentially brought about the birth of modern astronomy.
Imagine a universe An artist's take on Astronomy
Authors: Abbozzo Margherita
Published: June 2011

This is a brief introduction to the ideas behind the art installation Siderea, Homage to Galileo that was created for, and exhibited at the IYA 2009 Opening Ceremony at UNESCO in Paris. The text narrates the attraction that astronomy exercises on the author, who studied Classics before becoming an artist and has always been fascinated by science.
A Universe on which to dwell
Authors: Atkinson Marea
Published: June 2011

The artworks The Cosmic Garden and To Dwell Upon the Universe created for the exhibition Astronomical Inspirations, at the Salle Miró, UNESCO Headquarters, for the launch of the International Year of Astronomy reflect upon the unfolding human perception and relationship with the cosmos and speculate on the nature of space expressed in printmaking via a study of astronomical phenomena, symbolism in visual and scientific artefacts and theories. The work overlaps between the printed image, the constructed print, the artist book and installation.
Is astronomy useful for societies?
Authors: Audouze Jean
Published: June 2011

We briefly review various aspects related to the usefulness of astronomy to societies. Astronomy constitutes an important part of human culture, all over different countries and all over the entire history of humankind. Because of its intrinsic interest, astronomy is able to attract young generations towards technical and scientific careers. Moreover, it is also an indirect trigger of innovation and consequently of financial profit.
How, precisely, can astronomy be of benefit to anyone?
Authors: Jones Bernard J. T.
Published: June 2011

Astronomy as an observational science is technology driven both from the point of view of data acquisition and of data processing and visualisation. Astronomy exploits a very wide base of technologies which are developed, enhanced and extended by users. Consequently, astronomy can return new and enhanced technologies to areas well outside of astronomy itself. My own hi-tech company, Astraguard, a video imaging company, is a small but significant example of that technology return. Astronomy can provide both know-how and people for a diverse variety of areas: security, industrial process control, medical and biological imaging, petrochemicals, databases, and the financial industries to name but a few. It is unfortunate that those who teach astronomy are generally not aware of these possibilities.

In this lecture I hope to take a first step towards showing what is possible. I hope to convince the reader that astronomy education, at all levels, can play a significant role in career development outside of astronomy and in higher education in developing countries.
The role of astronomy and space sciences in Arab societies and cultures
Authors: Al-Naimiy Hamid M. K.
Published: June 2011

Astronomy, Astrophysics and Space Sciences (AASS) play an effective rôle in Sciences, Technology and Community Development. Unfortunately, a small percentage of this knowledge is actually used in teaching at schools, universities and other academic institutions in Arab countries. The challenge is to provide effective professional development for AASS educators and researchers at all levels, from elementary school to university.There is an urgent need for a better communication channels among Arab astronomers and space scientists nowadays. In this respect, the best choice is to identify in the vast cultural heritage of the Arab basin, particularly in astronomy. Building modern and good observatories, planetariums and research centres in the region jointly by Arab astronomers and space scientists is essential and will be an excellent step towards developing AASS. The aim of this paper is to show the importance of the formal and informal astronomical research and education, giving examples of possible astronomical projects, and comments of the experiences that have been carried out in a few Arab Countries. We show as well the importance of the Astronomical Societies in developing Science and Technology in the fields of AASS, and the role of these societies on the community and the country development.
Radio quiet, please! – protecting radio astronomy from interference
Authors: van Driel W.
Published: June 2011

The radio spectrum is a finite and increasingly precious resource for astronomical research, as well as for other spectrum users. Keeping the frequency bands used for radio astronomy as free as possible of unwanted Radio Frequency Interference (RFI) is crucial. The aim of spectrum management, one of the tools used towards achieving this goal, includes setting regulatory limits on RFI levels emitted by other spectrum users into the radio astronomy frequency bands. This involves discussions with regulatory bodies and other spectrum users at several levels – national, regional and worldwide. The global framework for spectrum management is set by the Radio Regulations of the International Telecommunication Union, which has defined that interference is detrimental to radio astronomy if it increases the uncertainty of a measurement by 10%. The Radio Regulations are revised every three to four years, a process in which four organisations representing the interests of the radio astronomical community in matters of spectrum management (IUCAF, CORF, CRAF and RAFCAP) participate actively. The current interests and activities of these four organisations range from preserving what has been achieved through regulatory measures, to looking far into the future of high frequency use and giant radio telescope use.
Astronomy outreach in hospitals and retirement homes
Authors: Courtin Régis
Published: June 2011

Various astronomy outreach programmes have been elaborated in the past few years in France in the direction of hospitalized people, or persons living in retirement homes.
Astronomy in the society and culture of Estonia
Authors: Leedjärv Laurits
Published: June 2011

History and present state of astronomy in a small North-Eastern European country are considered. There is a rather big number (about 35) of professional astronomers in Estonia, including 21 IAU members. Through some outstanding persons, astronomy in Estonia has significant relations with the society. The same can be said about the culture. Well-developed astronomy has contributed into the cooperation of Estonia with the European Space Agency, and thus, has an indirect effect to the country's economy.
The World's first global telescope network at your fingertips
Authors: Gomez Edward L. , Gomez Haley L.
Published: June 2011

We discuss the creation of the World's largest homogeneous telescope network. We summarize both the scientific and education programmes, and outline why this organization provides unique opportunities for anyone interested in astronomy, whether they are professionals or amateurs, experienced or novice.
Educational aspects of cosmology Global Cosmology Teachers Academy
Authors: Smoot George F.
Published: June 2011

This IAU–UNESCO Symposium 260 ‘The role of Astronomy in Society and Culture’ celebrates the 400th anniversary of the beginning of modern astronomy marked by when Galileo turned a telescope to the sky making so many astounding discoveries that changed our perceived position in the solar system. This talk celebrates that cosmology has entered this era in an even deeper and profound discoveries that have changed our perception of the universe and our place in it. As such cosmology is a great interest and educational tool for capturing the attention of the young and broadening their perspective. The first portion of the talk outlines and reveals some of these observations and the second with examples and vision of how this can provide an encompassing storyline for STEM learning. This proceedings also emphasizes the key role that partnerships including the private sector are valuable, critical, and rewarding part of the effort.
International Schools for Young Astronomers Teaching for Astronomy Development: two programmes of the International Astronomical Union
Authors: Gerbaldi Michèle , DeGreve Jean-Pierre , Guinan Edward
Published: June 2011

This text outlines the main features of two educational programmes of the International Astronomical Union (IAU): the International Schools for Young Astronomers (ISYA) and the Teaching for Astronomy Development programme (TAD), developed since 1967.

The main goal of the International Schools for Young Astronomers (ISYA) is to support astronomy (education and research) in developing countries in organizing a 3-week School for students with typically M.Sc. degrees.

The context in which the ISYA were developed changed drastically during the last decade. From a time when access to large telescopes was difficult and mainly organized on a nation-basis, nowadays the archives of astronomical data have accumulated at the same time that many major telescope become accessible, and they are accessible from everywhere, the concept of virtual observatory reinforcing this access.

A second programme of the IAU, Teaching for Astronomy Development (TAD), partially based on a School, but also of shorter duration (typically one week) has a complementary objective. It is dedicated to assist countries that have little or no astronomical activity, but that wish to enhance their astronomy education. The fast development of the TAD programme over the past years is emphasized.