bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Nano Structural and Thermoelectric Properties of SiGeAu Thin Films
Authors: Takiguchi Hiroaki , Aono Masami , Okamoto Yoichi
Published: April 2011

SiGeAu thin films exhibit large thermoelectric power. Recently, the formation of SiGe nano crystal has been confirmed after annealing. In this study, we investigated the relationship between the size of the nano crystal and thermoelectric power. SiGe nano crystals were fabricated by the crystallization of amorphous SiGeAu thin films. The grain size of SiGe was around 6 nm when Au composition was 2.2 at. %. The grain size decreased with increasing Au composition up to 2.2 at. % due to metal-induced crystallization, and increased depending on Au composition over 2.2 at. % due to liquid phase crystallization. When the grain size was around 6 nm, the thin films exhibited large thermoelectric power (4.8 mV K-1) and power factor (2.4×10-2 W m-1 K-2). Therefore, the grain size of SiGe around 6 nm is important for obtaining the large thermoelectric power and power factor. These results indicate that the quantum size effect enhances the thermoelectric power and power factor of SiGeAu thin films.
Double Junction Tunnel Using Si Nanocrystalline Layer for Nonvolatile Memory Devices
Authors: Ohba Ryuji , Mitani Yuichiro , Sugiyama Naoharu , Matsumoto Mari , Fujita Shinobu
Published: April 2011

A novel nonvolatile memory tunnel layer structure is proposed in which a Si nanocrystalline layer lies between double tunnel oxides. By Si nanocrystal size downscaling to 2 nm, the new double junction tunnel attains a remarkable 3×106 times retention improvement while keeping high-speed write/erase compared to single tunnel oxide. Based on Si nanocrystal size confirmation by transmission electron microscope (TEM), we show quantitatively that the advantage is due to Coulomb blockade and quantum confinement, and smaller Si nanocrystal will lead to greater improvement. We clarify a characteristic effect in double junction tunnel, tunnel penetration disappearance, which is extremely advantageous for nonvolatile memory applications and never occurs in other multilayer dielectrics structures. The double tunnel junction using Si nanocrystalline layer is very promising for future memory.
Effects of Gold Nanoparticles on Pentacene Organic Field-Effect Transistors
Authors: Lee Keanchuan , Weis Martin , Ou-Yang Wei , Taguchi Dai , Manaka Takaaki , Iwamoto Mitsumasa
Published: April 2011

The effect of gold nanoparticles (NPs) on pentacene organic field-effect transistors (OFETs) was being investigated by both DC and AC methods, which are current–voltage (I–V) measurements in steady-state and impedance spectroscopy (IS) respectively. Here poly(vinyl alcohol) (PVA) and PVA blended with Au NPs as composite are spin-coated on SiO2 as gate-insulator for top-contact pentacene OFET. The characteristics of the device were being investigated based on the contact resistance, trapped charges, effective mobility and threshold voltage based on transfer characteristics of OFET. Results revealed that OFET with NPs exhibited larger hysteresis and higher contact resistance at high voltage region. IS measurements were performed and the fitting of results by the Maxwell–Wagner equivalent circuit showed that for device with NPs a series of capacitance and resistance which represents trapping must be introduced in order to have agreeable fitting. The fitting had helped to clarify the reason behind the higher contact resistance and bigger hysteresis which was mainly caused by the space charge field formed by the traps when Au NPs were introduced into the device.
Resonator Fiber Optic Gyro with Bipolar Digital Serrodyne Scheme Using a Field-Programmable Gate Array-Based Digital Processor
Authors: Wang Xijing , He Zuyuan , Hotate Kazuo
Published: April 2011

A field-programmable gate array-based digital processor is proposed and demonstrated experimentally for a resonator fiber optic gyro (R-FOG) with a bipolar digital serrodyne phase modulation scheme, which we previously proposed especially for R-FOG signal processing and its noise reduction. The processor has multi functions. First, it suppresses both the fast- and slow-drift components in the difference between the laser frequency and the resonator's resonant frequency. The fast-drift with a small amplitude is compensated for by a proportional controller with an oversampling function to reduce the quantization error, while the slow-drift with a large amplitude is tracked using an up/down counter. Second, it automatically adjusts the amplitude of the waveform for bipolar digital serrodyne phase modulation for waves travelling both in the resonator clockwise and counterclockwise. Bipolar laser frequency alternation required to track the resonator's resonant frequency is ideally realized by adjusting the phase modulation amplitude. This automatic adjustment also realizes an additional function for reducing the gyro drift caused by backscattering in the fiber resonator, which was originally implemented in the shape of the waveform for bipolar digital serrodyne phase modulation. Third, the FPGA generates a gyro output with open-loop operation. The R-FOG performance is demonstrated to be improved by applying these three functions with the FPGA.
Molecular and Electronic Tuning of Si/Carbon Nanotube Hybrid System
Authors: Escaño Mary Clare Sison , Nguyen Tien Quang , Kasai Hideaki
Published: April 2011

In complex structures such as conjugated Si nanoparticles on carbon nanotubes (CNT), new properties arise out particle size control or nanoparticle–nanotube contact. In this work, the interaction of Si clusters (Si
n
, n=1–4) with metallic (5,5) single-wall carbon nanotube (SWCNT) is investigated using first principles calculations based on density functional theory, to show that electronic property of the Si/SWCNT system can change via Si–SWCNT conformation alone. Planar Si clusters on SWCNT exhibit the same metallic property regardless of size. However, once the planarity of Si
n
is lost, which happens when Si adsorption sites shifts towards the top and the Si–C bonds bend resulting to a buckled Si
n
configuration, a band gap of ∼0.32 eV in the entire Si/SWCNT system is introduced. The migration behavior of Si adatoms shows ease of cluster formation due to surface curvature. Such cluster formation can be accommodated by a distortion in the C–C bonds of CNT. Mechanism for the opening of the SWCNT band gap is presented.
Density Functional Theory Investigation on the Dissociation and Adsorption Processes of N2 on Pd(111) and Pd3Ag(111) Surfaces
Authors: Padama Allan Abraham B. , Ozawa Nobuki , Budhi Yogi Wibisono , Kasai Hideaki
Published: April 2011

The dissociation and adsorption processes of N2 on Pd(111) and Pd3Ag(111) surfaces are investigated using density functional theory (DFT). The dissociation of N2 molecule on Pd(111) is most efficient if its center-of-mass (CM) is fixed on top of Pd atom while allowing the N atoms to dissociate on the hollow sites [hcp hollow–top–fcc hollow (h–t–f) configuration] with an activation barrier of 5.94 eV. In Pd3Ag(111), N2 also prefers dissociating along the h–t–f configuration but the activation barrier is higher, 6.01 eV, and is attributed to the presence of Ag atom. The local density of states (LDOS) of the d-orbital of surface atoms shows that the presence of Ag had reduced the density of states in the region around the Fermi level which causes the higher activation barrier observed towards N2. Charge difference distribution also shows that there is a greater gain of charges of N2 from the surface atoms of Pd(111) surface which induces repulsion and resulting to the dissociation to individual N atoms. This further explains the easier dissociation and adsorption of N2 on Pd(111) as compared to Pd3Ag(111) surface.
Importance of Starting Procedure for Film Growth in Substrate-Type Microcrystalline-Silicon Solar Cells
Authors: Chantana Jakapan , Tsutsui Yuichi , Sobajima Yasushi , Sada Chitose , Matsuda Akihisa , Okamoto Hiroaki
Published: April 2011

The starting procedure of hydrogenated microcrystalline-silicon (µc-Si:H) film growth at a high rate has been controlled in a plasma-enhanced chemical vapor deposition process to improve the optoelectronic properties of the resulting n/i interface as well as the intrinsic bulk layer in µc-Si:H-based substrate-type (n–i–p) solar cells. The electron temperature, monitored using optical emission spectroscopy, in the plasma during film growth is successfully controlled by changing the starting procedure, i.e., gradual SiH4introduction and slow power application, leading to the preparation of high-quality µc-Si:H films with a low dangling-bond defect density. Reduction of the defect density in the intrinsic layer and improvement of the optoelectronic properties at the n/i interface are demonstrated through the fabrication of single-junction n–i–p solar cells showing high photovoltaic performance.
Double Patterning Using Multilayer Hard Mask Process with Perhydropolysilazane
Authors: Terai Mamoru , Shinohara Masaaki , Yonekura Kazumasa , Hagiwara Takuya , Hanawa Tetsuro , Kumada Teruhiko
Published: April 2011

A new technology called the double patterning (DP) process with ArF immersion lithography is one of the candidate fabrication technologies for 32-nm-node devices. Over the past few years, many studies have been conducted on techniques of the DP process. Among these technologies, the double Si hard mask (HM) process is thought to be the most applicable technology from the viewpoint of high technical applicability to 32-nm-node device fabrication. However, this process has a disadvantage in terms of cost performance compared with other DP technologies since these HMs are formed by the chemical vacuum deposition (CVD) method. In this study, we examined the DP process using a dual spin-on Si-containing layer without using the CVD method to improve process cost and process applicability. Perhydropolysilazane (PSZ) was used as one of the middle layers (MLs). PSZ changes to SiO2 through reaction with water by the catalytic action of amine in the baking step. Using PSZ and Si-BARC as MLs, we succeeded in fabricating a fine pattern by this novel DP technique. In this paper, the issues and countermeasures of the double HM technique using spin-on Si-containing layers will be reported.
Improved Resistive Switching Properties of Solution-Processed TiOxFilm by Incorporating Atomic Layer Deposited TiO2layer
Authors: Kim Insung , Jung Seungjae , Shin Jungho , Biju Kuyyadi P. , Seo Kyungah , Siddik Manzar , Liu Xinjun , Kong Jaemin , Lee Kwanghee , Hwang Hyunsang
Published: April 2011

Resistive switching characteristics of bilayered titanium oxides layer were investigated. To improve the relatively poor electrical characteristics of solution-processed TiOxactive layers, we incorporated an additional thin TiO2(∼8 nm) layer by atomic layer deposition. The bilayered titanium oxide active layer showed a significantly improved performance, such as a larger ON/OFF ratio, a stable resistive switching over 100 times under a dc voltage sweep, cell-to-cell uniformity, and high device yield (>90%). These improved properties can be explained by the transition of the resistive switching mechanism from filamentary switching through the defective side in solution-processed TiOxto interfacial switching resulting from the oxygen ion migration between two active layers.
Uniform Magnetic Dot Fabrication by Nanoindentation Lithography
Authors: Kikuchi Nobuaki , Hashimoto Tomohiko , Okamoto Satoshi , Shen Ze , Kitakami Osamu
Published: April 2011

A dot array of Co/Pt multilayer was fabricated by combining nanoindentation lithography using an atomic force microscope and an inorganic/organic bilayer resist system in accordance with the work by Hu et al. [J. Vac. Sci. Technol. B 16 (1998) 1983] By elaborate optimization of all processes in the nanoindentation lithography, such as resist materials and indentation depth of a probe tip, extremely uniform Co/Pt multilayer dots with a diameter of 40 nm and very small size dispersion of less than 10% have been successfully fabricated with excellent reproducibility. Magnetic measurements have revealed that the Co/Pt multilayer dots are purely single-domained and exhibit large coercivity with small switching field distribution.
Experimental Investigation of Mode Conversions of the T(0,1) Mode Guided Wave Propagating in an Elbow Pipe
Authors: Nishino Hideo , Tanaka Toshiro , Katashima Saori , Yoshida Kenichi
Published: April 2011

Mode conversions from the fundamental torsional guided wave mode, T(0,1), to the higher-order torsional modes, T(1,1), T(2,1), T(3,1), and T(4,1), at a welded elbow pipe were experimentally investigated in a wide frequency range from 30 to 80 kHz. One ring-shaped transducer system was used as the transmitter and another as the receiver. Both systems consist of eight circumferentially located piezoelectric transducer elements. A novel method for a preferential detection of the torsional modes was proposed on the basis of the circumferential wave structures of the modes, which was utilized for investigations of mode conversions. Dispersion relations of the converted modes in frequency ranges from 30 to 80 kHz were also experimentally investigated, which agreed very well with those of the theoretical calculations.
Quantification of Temperature Driven Flow in a Polymer Electrolyte Fuel Cell Using High-Resolution Neutron Radiography
Authors: Hatzell M. C. , Turhan A. , Kim S. , Hussey D. S. , Jacobson D. L. , Mench M. M.
Published: April 2011

In this study, the effect of a controlled temperature gradient on water transport across a single fuel cell was quantitatively investigated using high-resolution neutron imaging. The direction of liquid water transport under isothermal and non-isothermal conditions was observed in both hydrophilic and hydrophobic diffusion media (DM). The change in distribution of liquid saturation with time revealed two different mechanisms of water transport; capillary driven flow and phase-change induced (PCI) flow, in which a water vapor concentration gradient is created by condensation at a colder location. This concentration gradient drives diffusion flow toward the colder location. A maximum liquid saturation plateau of ca. 30% was shown for all conditions tested, indicating a critical transition between pendular and funicular modes of liquid water storage was captured. Based on this, it is suggested that PCI-flow may be the main mode of liquid transport below this critical transition threshold, above which, capillary flow dominates. As expected, both average cell temperature and the magnitude of temperature gradient were shown to significantly affect the rate of condensation within the DM. Experimental results were compared with water saturation distribution model predictions from literature and show reasonable qualitative agreement. Finally, it was concluded that current available models significantly over predict vapor phase diffusive transport in saturated fuel cell media using a Bruggeman type model.
Evidence of Heterogeneous Strain during Crystallization of Ge2Sb2Te5 Thin Film
Authors: Fillot F. , Loubriat S. , Gergaud P. , Maîtrejean S.
Published: April 2011

In situ and ex situ X-ray diffraction are used to evidence the heterogeneous strain generation during the thermal crystallization of capped Ge2Sb2Te5 thin film. Upon crystallization, a considerable tensile stress builup linked to densification is observed and the strain (macroscopic and microscopic) increases as the crystallization advances. Two populations of oriented grains are distinguished. A depth analysis shows that the two populations of grains are a differently distributed in the depth of the film. Strain and structural gradient (or heterogeneity) is evidenced and shows that interfaces play a major role in the mechanical state of Ge2Sb2Te5 films.
Leptin treatment reduces body fat but does not affect lean body mass or the myostatin-follistatin-activin axis in lean hypoleptinemic women
Authors: Brinkoetter Mary , Magkos Faidon , Vamvini Maria , Mantzoros Christos S.
Published: April 2011

Animal studies in vivo indicate that leptin treatment in extremely leptin-sensitive ob/ ob mice reduces body weight exclusively by reducing fat mass and that it increases muscle mass by downregulating myostatin expression. Data from human trials are limited. Therefore, we aimed at characterizing the effects of leptin administration on fat mass, lean body mass, and circulating regulators of muscle growth in hypoleptinemic and presumably leptin-sensitive human subjects. In an open-label, single-arm trial, seven lean, strenuously exercising, amenorrheic women with low leptin concentrations (≤5 ng/ml) were given recombinant methionyl human leptin (metreleptin; 0.08 mg·kg−1·day−1) for 10 wk. In a separate randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial, seven women were given metreleptin (initial dose: 0.08 mg·kg−1·day−1 for 3 mo, increased thereafter to 0.12 mg·kg−1·day−1 if menstruation did not occur), and six were given placebo for 9 mo. Metreleptin significantly reduced total body fat by an average of 18.6% after 10 wk ( P < 0.001) in the single-arm trial and by 19.5% after 9 mo (placebo subtracted; P for interaction = 0.025, P for metreleptin = 0.004) in the placebo-controlled trial. There were no significant changes in lean body mass ( P ≥ 0.33) or in serum concentrations of myostatin ( P ≥ 0.35), follistatin ( P ≥ 0.30), and activin A ( P ≥ 0.20) whether in the 10-wk trial or the 9-mo trial. We conclude that metreleptin administration in lean hypoleptinemic women reduces fat mass exclusively and does not affect lean body mass or the myostatin-follistatin-activin axis.
Molecular characterization of skeletal muscle atrophy in the R6/2 mouse model of Huntington's disease
Authors: She Pengxiang , Zhang Zhiyou , Marchionini Deanna , Diaz William C. , Jetton Thomas J. , Kimball Scot R. , Vary Thomas C. , Lang Charles H. , Lynch Christopher J.
Published: April 2011

Huntington's disease (HD), a neurodegenerative disorder caused by mutant huntingtin, is characterized by a catabolic phenotype. To determine the mechanisms underlying muscle wasting, we examined key signal transduction pathways governing muscle protein metabolism, apoptosis, and autophagy in R6/2 mice, a well-characterized transgenic model of HD. R6/2 mice exhibited increased adiposity, elevated energy expenditure, and decreased body weight and lean mass without altered food intake. Severe skeletal muscle wasting accounted for a majority of the weight loss. Protein synthesis was unexpectedly increased 19% in gastrocnemius muscle, which was associated with overactivation of basal and refeeding-stimulated mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) signaling, elevated Akt expression and Ser473phosphorylation, and decreased AMPK Thr172phosphorylation. Moreover, mRNA abundance of atrogenes muscle ring finger-1 and atrophy F-box, was markedly attenuated during fasting and refeeding, and the urinary excretion of 3-methylhistidine was decreased, arguing against a role for the ubiquitin proteasome-mediated proteolysis in the atrophy. In contrast, mRNA expression of several caspase genes and genes involved in the extrinsic or intrinsic apoptotic pathway, caspase-3/7, -8, and -9 activity, protein abundance of caspase-3 and -9, Fas, and Fadd, and cytochrome c release were elevated. Protein expressions of LC3B-I and -II, beclin-I, and atg5 and -7 in muscle were upregulated. Thus, mutant huntingtin in skeletal muscle results in increased protein synthesis and mTOR signaling, which is countered by activation of the apoptotic and autophagic pathways, contributing to an overall catabolic phenotype and the severe muscle wasting.
Human obesity is characterized by defective fat storage and enhanced muscle fatty acid oxidation, and trimetazidine gradually counteracts these abnormalities
Authors: Bucci Marco , Borra Ronald , Någren Kjell , Maggio Romina , Tuunanen Helena , Oikonen Vesa , Del Ry Silvia , Viljanen Tapio , Taittonen Markku , Rigazio Sara , Giannessi Daniela , Parkkola Riitta , Knuuti Juhani , Nuutila Pirjo , Iozzo Patricia
Published: April 2011

An impaired ability to store fatty acids (FA) in subcutaneous adipose tissue (SAT) may be implicated in the pathogenesis of obesity-related diseases via overexposure of lean tissues and production of free radicals from FA oxidation (FAO). We studied regional FA metabolism in skeletal muscle and adipose tissue in humans and investigated the long-term effects of the FAO inhibitor trimetazidine on glucose and FA metabolism. Positron emission tomography (PET) and [11C]palmitate were used to compare FA metabolism in SAT and skeletal muscle between eight obese and eight nonobese subjects (BMI ≥/< 30 kg/m2). A subgroup of nine subjects underwent a 1-mo trimetazidine administration. PET with [11C]palmitate and [18F]fluorodeoxyglucose, indirect calorimetry, and MRI before and after this period were performed to characterize glucose and FA metabolism, fat masses, skeletal muscle triglyceride, and creatine contents. Obesity was characterized by a 100% elevation in FAO and a defect in the FA esterification rate constant ( P < 0.05) in skeletal muscle. FA esterification was reduced by ∼70% in SAT ( P < 0.001) in obese vs. control subjects. The degrees of obesity and insulin resistance were both negatively associated with esterification-related parameters and positively with FAO ( P < 0.05). Trimetazidine increased skeletal muscle FA esterification ( P < 0.01) and mildly upregulated glucose phosphorylation ( P = 0.066). Our data suggest that human obesity is characterized by a defect in tissue FA storage capability, which is accompanied by a (potentially compensatory) elevation in skeletal muscle FAO; trimetazidine diverted FA from oxidative to nonoxidative pathways and provoked an initial activation of glucose metabolism in skeletal muscle.
Tumor necrosis factor-α is an endogenous inhibitor of Na+-K+-2Cl− cotransporter (NKCC2) isoform A in the thick ascending limb
Authors: Battula Sailaja , Hao Shoujin , Pedraza Paulina L. , Stier Charles T. , Ferreri Nicholas R.
Published: April 2011

The effects of TNF gene deletion on renal Na+-K+-2Cl− cotransporter (NKCC2) expression and activity were determined. Outer medulla from TNF−/− mice exhibited a twofold increase in total NKCC2 protein expression compared with wild-type (WT) mice. This increase was not observed in TNF−/− mice treated with recombinant human TNF (hTNF) for 7 days. Administration of hTNF had no effect on total NKCC2 expression in WT mice. A fourfold increase in NKCC2A mRNA accumulation was observed in outer medulla from TNF−/− compared with WT mice; NKCC2F and NKCC2B mRNA accumulation was similar between genotypes. The increase in NKCC2A mRNA accumulation was attenuated when TNF−/− mice were treated with hTNF. Bumetanide-sensitive O2 consumption, an in vitro correlate of NKCC2 activity, was 2.8 ± 0.2 nmol·min−1·mg−1 in medullary thick ascending limb tubules from WT, representing ∼40% of total O2 consumption, whereas, in medullary thick ascending limb tubules from TNF−/− mice, it was 5.6 ± 0.3 nmol·min−1·mg−1, representing ∼60% of total O2 consumption. Administration of hTNF to TNF−/− mice restored the bumetanide-sensitive component to ∼30% of total O2 consumption. Ambient urine osmolality was higher in TNF−/− compared with WT mice (2,072 ± 104 vs. 1,696 ± 153 mosmol/kgH2O, P < 0.05). The diluting ability of the kidney, assessed by measuring urine osmolality before and after 1 h of water loading also was greater in TNF−/− compared with WT mice (174 ± 38 and 465 ± 81 mosmol/kgH2O, respectively, P < 0.01). Collectively, these findings suggest that TNF plays a role as an endogenous inhibitor of NKCC2 expression and function.
Motor command for precision grip in the macaque monkey can be mediated by spinal interneurons
Authors: Alstermark B. , Pettersson L. G. , Nishimura Y. , Yoshino-Saito K. , Tsuboi F. , Takahashi M. , Isa T.
Published: April 2011

In motor control, the general view is still that spinal interneurons mainly contribute to reflexes and automatic movements. The question raised here is whether spinal interneurons can mediate the cortical command for independent finger movements, like a precision grip between the thumb and index finger in the macaque monkey, or if this function depends exclusively on a direct corticomotoneuronal pathway. This study is a followup of a previous report (Sasaki et al. J Neurophysiol 92: 3142–3147, 2004) in which we trained macaque monkeys to pick a small piece of sweet potato from a cylinder by a precision grip between the index finger and thumb. We have now isolated one spinal interneuronal system, the C3-C4 propriospinal interneurons with projection to hand and arm motoneurons. In the previous study, the lateral corticospinal tract (CST) was interrupted in C4/C5 (input intact to the C3-C4 propriospinal interneurons), and in this study, the CST was interrupted in C2 (input abolished). The precision grip could be performed within the first 15 days after a CST lesion in C4/C5 but not in C2. We conclude that C3–C4 propriospinal interneurons also can carry the command for precision grip.
Cathodal transcranial direct current stimulation of the primary motor cortex improves selective muscle activation in the ipsilateral arm
Authors: McCambridge Alana B. , Bradnam Lynley V. , Stinear Cathy M. , Byblow Winston D.
Published: April 2011

Proximal upper limb muscles are represented bilaterally in primary motor cortex. Goal-directed upper limb movement requires precise control of proximal and distal agonist and antagonist muscles. Failure to suppress antagonist muscles can lead to abnormal movement patterns, such as those commonly experienced in the proximal upper limb after stroke. We examined whether noninvasive brain stimulation of primary motor cortex could be used to improve selective control of the ipsilateral proximal upper limb. Thirteen healthy participants performed isometric left elbow flexion by contracting biceps brachii (BB; agonist) and left forearm pronation (BB antagonist) before and after 20 min of cathodal transcranial direct current stimulation (c-tDCS) or sham tDCS of left M1. During the tasks, motor evoked potentials (MEPs) in left BB were acquired using single-pulse transcranial magnetic stimulation of right M1 150–270 ms before muscle contraction. As expected, left BB MEPs were facilitated before flexion and suppressed before pronation. After c-tDCS, left BB MEP amplitudes were reduced compared with sham stimulation, before pronation but not flexion, indicating that c-tDCS enhanced selective muscle activation of the ipsilateral BB in a task-specific manner. The potential for c-tDCS to improve BB antagonist control correlated with BB MEP amplitude for pronation relative to flexion, expressed as a selectivity ratio. This is the first demonstration that selective muscle activation in the proximal upper limb can be improved after c-tDCS of ipsilateral M1 and that the benefits of c-tDCS for selective muscle activation may be most effective in cases where activation strategies are already suboptimal. These findings may have relevance for the use of tDCS in rehabilitation after stroke.
Gene expression differences in healthy brachial and femoral arteries of Rapacz familial hypercholesterolemic swine
Authors: Bahls Martin , Bidwell Christopher A. , Hu Juan , Krueger Christian G. , Reed Jess D. , Tellez Armando , Kaluza Greg L. , Granada Juan F. , Van Alstine William G. , Newcomer Sean C.
Published: April 2011

The mechanisms underlying the unequal distribution of atherosclerotic disease in the peripheral arteries are currently unclear. Gene expression differences in healthy arteries may influence the heterogeneous distribution of atherosclerosis. Therefore, this investigation compares gene expression in healthy atheroprotected brachial and atherosusceptible femoral arteries of young and disease free Rapacz familial hypercholesterolemic (FHC) swine. We hypothesized that transcripts related to atherosusceptibility would be differentially expressed between these arteries prior to the onset of disease. Femoral and brachial arteries were harvested from four 13-day-old Rapacz FHC swine. No atherosclerotic disease was detected using Sudan IV, Verhoeff-van Gieson, and hematoxylin-eosin staining. Gene expression was quantified using Affymetrix GeneChip Porcine Genome Arrays. An average of 15,552 probe sets had detectable transcripts, while 430 probe sets showed a significant differential expression between arteries (false discovery rate < 0.05). The human orthologs of 63 probe sets with differential expression and a 1.5-fold or greater transcript abundance between arteries are associated with Wnt/β-catenin, lysophospholipid, and Ca-signaling, as well as apoptosis. This is the first investigation reporting that differences in relative abundance of gene expression exist between brachial and femoral arteries in young Rapacz FHC swine prior to the development of atherosclerotic lesions.
Ultrasonic Measurements of Temperature in Aqueous Solutions: Why and How
Authors: Afaneh A. , Alzebda S. , Ivchenko V. , Kalashnikov A. N.
Published: April 2011

The paper describes two different approaches to ultrasonic measurements of temperature in aqueous solutions. The first approach uses two narrowband ultrasonic transducers and support electronics that form an oscillating sensor which output frequency is related to the measured temperature. This low-cost sensor demonstrated sensitivity of about 40 Hz/K at the distance of 190 mm and the operating frequency of about 25 kHz. The second approach utilised pulse-echo mode at the centre frequency of 20 MHz. The reflector featured a cavity that was filled with deionised water. The ultrasound propagation delay in the cavity was related to the temperature in the solution. The experiments were conducted for deionised water, and solutions of sodium persulfate, sodium chloride, and acetic acid with concentrations up to 0.5 M. In the experiments (conducted within the temperature range from 15 to 30°C), we observed increases in the ultrasound velocity for increased temperatures and concentrations as was expected. Measurement results were compared with literature data for pure and seawater. It was concluded that ultrasonic measurements of temperature were conducted with the resolution well below 0.1 K for both methods. Advantages of ultrasonic temperature measurements over conventional thermometers were discussed.
ELAN: A Software Package for Analysis and Visualization of MEG, EEG, and LFP Signals
Authors: Aguera Pierre-Emmanuel , Jerbi Karim , Caclin Anne , Bertrand Olivier
Published: April 2011

The recent surge in computational power has led to extensive methodological developments and advanced signal processing techniques that play a pivotal role in neuroscience. In particular, the field of brain signal analysis has witnessed a strong trend towards multidimensional analysis of large data sets, for example, single-trial time-frequency analysis of high spatiotemporal resolution recordings. Here, we describe the freely available ELAN software package which provides a wide range of signal analysis tools for electrophysiological data including scalp electroencephalography (EEG), magnetoencephalography (MEG), intracranial EEG, and local field potentials (LFPs). The ELAN toolbox is based on 25 years of methodological developments at the Brain Dynamics and Cognition Laboratory in Lyon and was used in many papers including the very first studies of time-frequency analysis of EEG data exploring evoked and induced oscillatory activities in humans. This paper provides an overview of the concepts and functionalities of ELAN, highlights its specificities, and describes its complementarity and interoperability with other toolboxes.
Update on Pharmaceutical and Minimally Invasive Management Strategies for Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease
Authors: Rafii Rokhsara , Albertson Timothy E. , Louie Samuel , Chan Andrew L.
Published: April 2011

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a debilitating pulmonary disorder with systemic effects, and it is the fourth leading cause of death in the United States. COPD patients not only develop respiratory limitations, but can also demonstrate systemic wasting, features of depression, and can succumb to social isolation. Smoking cessation is crucial, and pharmacotherapy with bronchodilators is helpful in symptom management. Inhaled corticosteroids may be beneficial in some patients. In addition, pulmonary rehabilitation and palliative care are important components under the right clinical circumstance. This review highlights current guidelines and management strategies for COPD and emphasizes novel pharmacotherapy and minimally invasive (nonsurgical) lung-volume reduction interventions that may prove to be of significant benefit in the future.
A Multiobjective Stochastic Production‐Distribution Planning Problem in an Uncertain Environment Considering Risk and Workers Productivity
Authors: Mirzapour Al-e-Hashem S. M. J. , Baboli A. , Sadjadi S. J. , Aryanezhad M. B.
Published: April 2011

A multi‐objective two stage stochastic programming model is proposed to deal with a multi‐period multi‐product multi‐site production‐distribution planning problem for a midterm planning horizon. The presented model involves majority of supply chain cost parameters such as transportation cost, inventory holding cost, shortage cost, production cost. Moreover some respects as lead time, outsourcing, employment, dismissal, workers productivity and training are considered. Due to the uncertain nature of the supply chain, it is assumed that cost parameters and demand fluctuations are random variables and follow from a pre‐defined probability distribution. To develop a robust stochastic model, an additional objective functions is added to the traditional production‐distribution‐planning problem. So, our multi‐objective model includes (i) the minimization of the expected total cost of supply chain, (ii) the minimization of the variance of the total cost of supply chain and (iii) the maximization of the workers productivity through training courses that could be held during the planning horizon. Then, the proposed model is solved applying a hybrid algorithm that is a combination of Monte Carlo sampling method, modified ε‐constraint method and L‐shaped method. Finally, a numerical example is solved to demonstrate the validity of the model as well as the efficiency of the hybrid algorithm.
A Functional Driver Analyzing Concept
Authors: Islinger Tobias , Köhler Thorsten , Wolff Christian
Published: April 2011

It is evident that a lot of accidents occur because of drowsiness or inattentiveness of the driver. The logical consequence is that we have to find methods to better analyze the driver. A lot of research has been spent on camera-based systems which focus on the driver's eye gaze or his head movement. But there are few systems that provide camera-free driver analyzing. This is the main goal of the work presented here which is structured in three phases, with the operational goal of having a working driver analyzer implemented in a car. The main question is: is it possible to make statements concerning the driver and his state by using vehicle data from the CAN Bus only? This paper describes the current state of driver analyzing, our overall system architecture, as well as future work. At the moment, we focus on detecting the driving style of a person.
Translation Invariant Spaces and Asymptotic Properties of Variational Equations
Authors: Sasu Adina Luminiţa , Sasu Bogdan
Published: April 2011

We present a new perspective concerning the study of the asymptotic behavior of variational equations by employing function spaces techniques. We give a complete description of the dichotomous behaviors of the most general case of skew‐product flows, without any assumption concerning the flow, the cocycle or
the splitting of the state space, our study being based only on the solvability of some associated control systems between certain function spaces. The main results do not only point out new necessary and sufficient conditions for the existence of uniform and exponential dichotomy of skew‐product flows, but also provide a clear chart of the connections between the classes of translation invariant function spaces that play the role of the input or output classes with respect to certain control systems. Finally, we emphasize the significance of each underlying hypothesis by illustrative examples and present several interesting applications.
Existence and Multiplicity of Solutions for a Periodic Hill′s Equation with Parametric Dependence and Singularities
Authors: Cabada Alberto , Cid José Ángel
Published: April 2011

We deal with the existence and multiplicity of solutions for the
periodic boundary value problem x″(t) + a(t)x(t) = λg(t)f(x) + c(t), x(0) = x(T), x′(0) = x′(T), where λ is a positive parameter. The function f : (0, ∞) → (0, ∞) is allowed to be singular, and the related Green′s function is nonnegative
and can vanish at some points.
Median Nerve Palsy following Elastic Stable Intramedullary Nailing of a Monteggia Fracture: An Unusual Case and Review of the Literature
Authors: Lidder Surjit , Heidari Nima , Amerstorfer Florian , Grechenig Stephan , Weinberg Annelie M.
Published: April 2011

Monteggia fractures are rare in children, and subtle radial head dislocations, with minor plastic deformation of the ulna, may be missed in up to a third of cases. Complications of Monteggia fractures-dislocations include persistent radial head dislocation, forearm deformity, elbow stiffness, and nerve palsies at the time of presentation. An unusual case of median nerve palsy following elastic stable intramedullary nailing of a type I Monteggia lesion in a 6-year-old girl is presented, and we highlight that, although most nerve palsies associated with a Monteggia fracture-dislocations are treated expectantly in children, early intervention here probably provided the best outcome.
Comparisons between the Wake of a Wind Turbine Generator Operated at Optimal Tip Speed Ratio and the Wake of a Stationary Disk
Authors: Uchida Takanori , Ohya Yuji , Sugitani Kenichiro
Published: April 2011

The wake of a wind turbine generator (WTG) operated at the optimal tip speed ratio is compared to the wake of a WTG with its rotor replaced by a stationary disk. Numerical simulations are conducted with a large eddy simulation (LES) model using a nonuniform staggered Cartesian grid. The results from the numerical simulations are compared to those from wind‐tunnel experiments. The characteristics of the wake of the stationary disk are significantly different from those of the WTG. The velocity deficit at a downstream distance of 10D (D: rotor diameter) behind the WTG is approximately 30 to 40% of the inflow velocity. In contrast, flow separation is observed immediately behind the stationary disk (≤2D), and the velocity deficit in the far wake (10D) of the stationary disk is smaller than that of the WTG.
Extranodal NK/T‐Cell Lymphoma: Toward the Identification of Clinical Molecular Targets
Authors: Schmitt Christian , Sako Nouhoum , Bagot Martine , Huang Yenlin , Gaulard Philippe , Bensussan Armand
Published: April 2011

Extranodal natural killer (NK)/T‐cell lymphoma of nasal type (NKTCL) is a malignant disorder of cytotoxic lymphocytes of NK or more rarely T cells associated with clonal Epstein‐Barr virus infection. Extranodal NKTCL is rare in Western countries, but in Asia and Central and South America it can account for up to 10% of non‐Hodgkin′s lymphomas. It is an aggressive neoplasm with very poor prognosis. Although the pathogenesis of extranodal NKTCL remains poorly understood, some insights have been gained in the recent years, especially from genome‐wide studies. Based on our own experience and knowledge of the literature, we here review some of the genomic and functional pathway alterations observed in NKTCL that could provide a rationale for the development of innovative therapeutic strategies.
Diversity of Social Wasps on Semideciduous Seasonal Forest Fragments with Different Surrounding Matrix in Brazil
Authors: Tanaka Junior Getulio Minoru , Noll Fernando Barbosa
Published: April 2011

We surveyed social wasps (Polistinae) present in forest fragments of northwest of São Paulo state with different surroundings composed of a matrix of citrus crops and sugarcane in the expectation that the former matrix would be more diverse than the latter. We collected specimens actively using attractive liquids. We obtained 20 species in Magda, 13 in Bebedouro, 13 in Matão, and 19 in Barretos. The most common genus wasAgelaiain all of the areas. The greatest Shannon-Wiener index of diversity was obtained in Magda (H′=2.12). Species such asBrachygastra moebiana,Metapolybia docilis,Mischocyttarus ignotus,M. paulistanusandM. consimilishad not been recorded on recent surveys in the state. FurthermoreM. consimilisis a new record for the state. We concluded that, with our data, a relation between the occurrence of social wasps and the surrounding matrix was not detected.
Human Xeno-Autoantibodies against a Non-Human Sialic Acid Serve as Novel Serum Biomarkers and Immunotherapeutics in Cancer
Authors: Padler-Karavani Vered , Hurtado-Ziola Nancy , Pu Minya , Yu Hai , Huang Shengshu , Muthana Saddam , Chokhawala Harshal A. , Cao Hongzhi , Secrest Patrick , Friedmann-Morvinski Dinorah , Singer Oded , Ghaderi Darius , Verma Inder M. , Liu Yu-Tsueng , Messer Karen , Chen Xi , Varki Ajit , Schwab Richard
Published: April 2011

Human carcinomas can metabolically incorporate and present the dietary non-human sialic acid Neu5Gc, which differs from the human sialic acid N-acetylneuraminic acid (Neu5Ac) by 1 oxygen atom. Tumor-associated Neu5Gc can interact with low levels of circulating anti-Neu5Gc antibodies, thereby facilitating tumor progression via chronic inflammation in a human-like Neu5Gc-deficient mouse model. Here we show that human anti-Neu5Gc antibodies can be affinity-purified in substantial amounts from clinically approved intravenous IgG (IVIG) and used at higher concentrations to suppress growth of the same Neu5Gc-expressing tumors. Hypothesizing that this polyclonal spectrum of human anti-Neu5Gc antibodies also includes potential cancer biomarkers, we then characterize them in cancer and noncancer patients' sera, using a novel sialoglycan microarray presenting multiple Neu5Gc-glycans and control Neu5Ac-glycans. Antibodies against Neu5Gcα2−6GalNAcα1-O-Ser/Thr (GcSTn) were found to be more prominent in patients with carcinomas than with other diseases. This unusual epitope arises from dietary Neu5Gc incorporation into the carcinoma marker Sialyl-Tn, and is the first example of such a novel mechanism for biomarker generation. Finally, human serum or purified antibodies rich in anti-GcSTn-reactivity kill GcSTn-expressing human tumors via complement-dependent cytotoxicity or antibody-dependent cellular cytotoxicity. Such xeno-autoantibodies and xeno-autoantigens have potential for novel diagnostics, prognostics, and therapeutics in human carcinomas. Cancer Res; 71(9); 3352–63. ©2011 AACR.
Common and Overlapping Oncogenic Pathways Contribute to the Evolution of Acute Myeloid Leukemias
Authors: Kvinlaug Brynn T. , Chan Wai-In , Bullinger Lars , Ramaswami Mukundhan , Sears Christopher , Foster Donna , Lazic Stanley E. , Okabe Rachel , Benner Axel , Lee Benjamin H. , De Silva Inusha , Valk Peter J.M. , Delwel Ruud , Armstrong Scott A. , Döhner Hartmut , Gilliland D. Gary , Huntly Brian J.P.
Published: April 2011

Fusion oncogenes in acute myeloid leukemia (AML) promote self-renewal from committed progenitors, thereby linking transformation and self-renewal pathways. Like most cancers, AML is a genetically and biologically heterogeneous disease, but it is unclear whether transformation results from common or overlapping genetic programs acting downstream of multiple mutations or by the engagement of unique genetic programs acting cooperatively downstream of individual mutations. This distinction is important, because the involvement of common programs would imply the existence of common molecular targets to treat AML, no matter which oncogenes are involved. Here we show that the ability to promote self-renewal is a generalized property of leukemia-associated oncogenes. Disparate oncogenes initiated overlapping transformation and self-renewal gene expression programs, the common elements of which were defined in established leukemic stem cells from an animal model as well as from a large cohort of patients with differing AML subtypes, where they strongly predicted pathobiological character. Notably, individual genes commonly activated in these programs could partially phenocopy the self-renewal function of leukemia-associated oncogenes in committed murine progenitors. Furthermore, they could generate AML following expression in murine bone marrow. In summary, our findings reveal the operation of common programs of self-renewal and transformation downstream of leukemia-associated oncogenes, suggesting that mechanistically common therapeutic approaches to AML are likely to be possible, regardless of the identity of the driver oncogene involved. Cancer Res; 71(12); 4117–29. ©2011 AACR.
A Novel Oncolytic Herpes Simplex Virus that Synergizes with Phosphoinositide 3-kinase/Akt Pathway Inhibitors to Target Glioblastoma Stem Cells
Authors: Kanai Ryuichi , Wakimoto Hiroaki , Martuza Robert L. , Rabkin Samuel D.
Published: April 2011

Purpose: To develop a new oncolytic herpes simplex virus (oHSV) for glioblastoma (GBM) therapy that will be effective in glioblastoma stem cells (GSC), an important and untargeted component of GBM. One approach to enhance oHSV efficacy is by combination with other therapeutic modalities.

Experimental Design: MG18L, containing a US3 deletion and an inactivating LacZ insertion in UL39, was constructed for the treatment of brain tumors. Safety was evaluated after intracerebral injection in HSV-susceptible mice. The efficacy of MG18L in human GSCs and glioma cell lines in vitro was compared with other oHSVs, alone or in combination with phosphoinositide-3-kinase (PI3K)/Akt inhibitors (LY294002, triciribine, GDC-0941, and BEZ235). Cytotoxic interactions between MG18L and PI3K/Akt inhibitors were determined using Chou–Talalay analysis. In vivo efficacy studies were conducted using a clinically relevant mouse model of GSC-derived GBM.

Results: MG18L was severely neuroattenuated in mice, replicated well in GSCs, and had anti-GBM activity in vivo. PI3K/Akt inhibitors displayed significant but variable antiproliferative activities in GSCs, whereas their combination with MG18L synergized in killing GSCs and glioma cell lines, but not human astrocytes, through enhanced induction of apoptosis. Importantly, synergy was independent of inhibitor sensitivity. In vivo, the combination of MG18L and LY294002 significantly prolonged survival of mice, as compared with either agent alone, achieving 50% long-term survival in GBM-bearing mice.

Conclusions: This study establishes a novel therapeutic strategy: oHSV manipulation of critical oncogenic pathways to sensitize cancer cells to molecularly targeted drugs. MG18L is a promising agent for the treatment of GBM, being especially effective when combined with PI3K/Akt pathway–targeted agents. Clin Cancer Res; 17(11); 3686–96. ©2011 AACR.