bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Subprime catalyst: Financial regulatory reform and the strengthening of US carbon market governance
Authors: Helleiner Eric , Thistlethwaite Jason
Published: April 2012

The 2008 financial crisis has had an important, but neglected, impact on carbon market governance in the United States. It acted as a catalyst for the emergence of a domestic coalition that drew upon the crisis experience to demand stronger regulation over carbon markets. The influence of this coalition was seen first in the changing content of draft climate change bills between 2008 and 2010. But the coalition's more lasting legacy was its role in shaping the content of, and supporting, the passage of the Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act (the Dodd–Frank bill) in July 2010. Although that bill was aimed primarily at bolstering financial stability, its derivatives provisions strengthened carbon market regulation in significant ways. This policy episode demonstrates new patterns of coalition building in carbon market politics as well as the growing links between climate governance and financial regulatory politics. At the same time, the significance of these developments should not be overstated because of various limitations in the content and implementation of the Dodd–Frank bill, as well as the waning support for carbon markets more generally within the US since the bill's passage.
Muscle Activation Levels During Early Postoperative Rehabilitation Exercises in Slap Repaired Patients, a Pilot Study
Authors: Muir Tiffany , Mair Scott D. , Nitz Arthur J. , Bush Heather M. , Uhl Timothy L.
Published: April 2012

Background

Few studies have examined muscular activation levels during commonly prescribed range of motion (ROM) exercises in a post-surgical superior labral tear anterior to posterior (SLAP) repair patient group. The present cross-sectional study compared shoulder musculature activation levels between postoperative SLAP repair patients with those of a healthy control cohort performing commonly prescribed postoperative shoulder exercises. The maximal ROM (MAX ROM) achieved during exercises was also studied.

Methods

Ten healthy volunteers and nine postoperative patients (post-SLAP) performed 10 rehabilitative exercises during the recording of electromyogram (EMG) activity from six shoulder muscles. Root mean squared amplitudes normalized to a submaximal reference voluntary contraction (RVC) were analyzed to compare exercises. A two-dimensional video of humeral-trunk angle captured the shoulder ROM for each exercise.

Results

One significant difference was found between groups; the anterior deltoid mean activity across all exercises was found to be higher in the post-SLAP group 53% RVC [95% confidence interval (CI) = 48% to 57% RVC] compared to the healthy group 46% RVC (95% CI = 42% to 50% RVC) ( p = 0.02). Post-SLAP patients generated the least MAX ROM performing the Pendulum exercise 97°(95% CI = 88° to 107°) and the greatest during Forward Bow 131° (95% CI = 121° to 142°), ( p = 0.002).

Conclusions

The present study identifies the shoulder muscle EMG and MAX ROM obtained during rehabilitation exercise in patients’ after SLAP repair. Knowledge of these parameters will help clinicians match the appropriate exercise to meet the desired objective for the particular rehabilitation goal.
Efficacy of reduction therapy of natural human β‐interferon and ribavirin in elderly patients with chronic hepatitis C, genotype 1b and high viral load
Authors: Arase Yasuji , Kawamura Yusuke , Suzuki Yoshiyuki , Suzuki Fumitaka , Akuta Norio , Matsumoto Naoki , Seko Yuya , Sezaki Hitomi , Kobayashi Masahiro , Hosaka Tetsuya , Hirakawa Miharu , Saito Satoshi , Ikeda Kenji , Kobayashi Mariko , Kumada Hiromitsu
Published: April 2012

Aim:  To evaluate the efficacy of reduction therapy of natural human interferon (IFN)‐β and ribavirin in elderly patients with hepatitis C virus (HCV) genotype 1b and high viral load who had complications of anemia, low bodyweight (<50 kg), diabetes mellitus and/or hypertension.

Methods:  Inclusion criteria were age of 65 years or older, HCV genotype 1b, and serum HCV RNA level of 5.0 logIU/mL or higher. A total of 23 subjects with hemoglobin level of less than 13 g/dL, low bodyweight, diabetes mellitus and/or hypertension were enrolled in this study (reduction‐dose group). IFN‐β was administrated i.v. at a dose of 6 million units daily for 4 weeks initially, followed by three times a week for 44 weeks. Ribavirin was given daily for 48 weeks at a decreased dose of one tablet per day compared to the ordinary dose described based on bodyweight. As a control, another 22 patients without anemia, low bodyweight and/or complications treated with the standard dose of ribavirin (standard‐dose group) were enrolled.

Results:  Patients' rates with further dose reduction or discontinuation of treatment was 26.1% (6/23) in the reduction‐dose group and 77.3% (17/22) in the standard‐dose group. The sustained virological response (SVR) was 39.1% (9/23) in the reduction‐dose group and 27.3% (6/22) in the standard‐dose group (P = 0.404). Based on genetic variations near the IL28B gene (rs8099917), SVR was 44.1% (15/34) in patients with TT and 0% (0/11) in patients with TG (P = 0.008).

Conclusion:  The reduction therapy of IFN‐β and ribavirin in elderly HCV patients with genotype 1b, high viral load, IL28B gene (rs8099917) of TT who had complications of anemia, low bodyweight, diabetes mellitus and/or hypertension is one possible selection of treatment.
Comprehensive examination of large mineral and rock fragments in Stardust tracks: Mineralogy, analogous extraterrestrial materials, and source regions
Authors: JOSWIAK David J. , BROWNLEE Donald E. , MATRAJT Graciela , WESTPHAL Andrew J. , SNEAD Christopher J. , GAINSFORTH Zack
Published: April 2012

Abstract– Transmission electron microscopy examination of 87 large fragments from 16 carrot‐shaped and bulbous Stardust (SD) tracks was performed to study the range and diversity of materials present in comet Wild 2. Olivines and low‐Ca pyroxenes represent the largest proportions of fragments observed; however, a wide range of minerals and rocks were found including probable ferromagnesian, Al‐rich and Si‐rich chondrule fragments, a refractory inclusion, possible matrix mineral/lithic clasts, and probable condensate minerals. These materials, combined with fine‐grained components in the tracks, are analogous to components in unequilibrated chondrite meteorites and cluster interplanetary dust particles (IDPs). Two unusual lithologies in the bulbous tracks are only observed in chondritic porous IDPs and may have direct links to IDPs. The absence of phyllosilicates indicates that comet Wild 2 may be a “dry” comet that did not accrete or form significant amounts of hydrated phases. Some large mineral fragments in the SD tracks are analogous to large mineral IDPs. The large variations of the coarse‐grained components within and between all 16 tracks show that comet Wild 2 is mineralogically diverse and unequilibrated on nearly all scales and must have accreted materials from diverse source regions that were widely dispersed throughout the solar nebula.
Oral conditions in hepatitis C virus‐infected Iranian patients: a case‐control study
Authors: Maryam Rabiei , Fariborz Mansour‐Ghanaei , Hosein Massoudi R. , Hadi Golshekan
Published: April 2012

Abstract Aim:  Hepatitis C virus is now found worldwide, giving rise to concern that general populations might become infected. Extrahepatic manifestations might indicate latent disease. The aim of this study was to evaluate the association between oral lichen planus and xerostomia with hepatitis C virus infection in an Iranian population.

Methods:  The study (case) group consisted of 73 individuals with hepatitis C virus infection. The control group consisted of 139 age‐ and sex‐matched individuals. All patients were examined for oral conditions, and their hepatitis C virus infection was confirmed by an antihepatitis C virus antibody and hepatitis C virus–RNA polymerase chain reaction.

Results:  The prevalence of oral lichen planus was 1.4% and 4.1% of individuals complained of a dry mouth. There were no statistically‐significant differences between the case and control groups.

Conclusion:  Our findings reinforce other regional studies that there is no association between hepatitis C virus infection and oral conditions in the north of Iran, an area with a low prevalence of this infection.
Musculoskeletal disease and injury, now and in the future. Part 2: Tendon and ligament injuries
Authors: CLEGG P. D.
Published: April 2012

Tendon and ligament injuries continue to be one of the most frequent causes of orthopaedic injury and early retirement in the Thoroughbred racehorse. In the UK, the Horserace Betting Levy Board has invested considerable research funding in the last decade in order to investigate aspects of tendon epidemiology, biology and therapy, in order to decrease both the welfare and economic consequence of such injuries. This review summarises key aspects of this research effort and identifies specific research directions for the future.
Diffusion of contrast medium after four different techniques for analgesia of the proximal metacarpal region: an in vivo and in vitro study
Authors: Nagy A. , Bodó G. , Dyson S. J.
Published: April 2012

Reasons for performing study: There is limited information on potential diffusion of local anaesthetic solution after various diagnostic analgesic techniques of the proximal metacarpal region.

Objective: To document potential distribution of local anaesthetic solution following 4 techniques used for diagnostic analgesia of the proximal metacarpal region.

Methods: Radiodense contrast medium was injected around the lateral palmar or medial and lateral palmar metacarpal nerves in 8 mature horses, using 4 different techniques. Radiographs were obtained 0, 10 and 20 min after injection and were analysed subjectively. A mixture of radiodense contrast medium and methylene blue was injected into 4 cadaver limbs; the location of the contrast medium and dye was determined by radiography and dissection.

Results: Following perineural injection of the palmar metacarpal nerves, most of the contrast medium was distributed in an elongated pattern axial to the second and fourth metacarpal bones. The carpometacarpal joint was inadvertently penetrated in 4/8 limbs after injections of the palmar metacarpal nerves from medial and lateral approaches, and in 1/8 limbs when both injections were performed from the lateral approach. Following perineural injection of the lateral palmar nerve using a lateral approach, the contrast medium was diffusely distributed in all but one limb, in which the carpal sheath was inadvertently penetrated. In 5/8 limbs, following perineural injection of the lateral palmar nerve using a medial approach, the contrast medium diffused proximally to the distal third of the antebrachium.

Conclusions and potential relevance: Inadvertent penetration of the carpometacarpal joint is common after perineural injection of the palmar metacarpal nerves, but less so if both palmar metacarpal nerves are injected using a lateral approach. Following injection of the lateral palmar nerve using a medial approach, the entire palmar aspect of the carpus may be desensitised.
Chan Screven’s Contributions to Visitor Studies
Authors: Bitgood Stephen , Loomis Ross J.
Published: April 2012

Abstract   The recent passing of Chan Screven—for the last 50 years a giant in the field of visitor studies—compels a pause for reflection. The professional legacy he left behind is briefly described in this article.
Remembering and Disremembering: A Museum Perspective
Authors: Hennes Tom
Published: April 2012

Abstract   Ken Waliaula’s essay in this issue, Remembering and Disremembering in Africa, acutely observes the interaction of individual memory with what has been remembered and “disremembered” (willfully erased) by local communities and larger national political structures in Kenya. His reflections on the way society deals with memory offer valuable insight into museum‐making. Exhibitions can accommodate the fuller range of complexity, meaning, and interpretation that is reflective of real history as experienced from the range of perspectives Waliaula describes. To create such exhibitions, museum professionals need to adopt methods of collection and curation that differ from the common practice of “telling the story” in favor of incorporating greater narrative variety that embodies the complex contradictions of events that become history. By doing so, museums may better equip their users to share interpretive authority and experience a greater sense of authenticity within the exhibition.
Oscillatory Tracking Control of a Class of Nonlinear Systems
Authors: Wang Zheng , Guo Yi
Published: April 2012

Vibration control is an effective alternative to conventional feedback and feedforward control. Motivated by its important application in physical systems and few results on general oscillatory tracking control, we consider tracking control of a class of nonlinear systems using oscillation in the paper. We propose a new oscillatory control design using general averaging analysis for the tracking problem. Based on the oscillation functions associated with accessible vibrating components of the system, oscillatory control is designed to track a desired trajectory. Comparing to existing oscillatory tracking control, our approach is robust to initial conditions. We show the effectiveness of the proposed method by two simulation examples, which include a second-order nonholonomic integrator and the inverted pendulum system. For the inverted pendulum system, we show that our designed oscillatory control does not need state feedback to track a desired trajectory, which is desirable for systems where state measurement is not feasible.
A Noniterative Blind Deconvolution Approach to Unveil Early Time Behavior of Well Testings Contaminated by Wellbore Storage Effects
Authors: Moaddel Haghighi Arash , Pourafshary Peyman
Published: April 2012

Deconvolution method is generally used to eliminate wellbore storage dominant period of well testing. Common Deconvolution techniques require knowledge of both pressure and rate variations within test duration. Unfortunately, accurate rate data are not always available. In this case, blind deconvolution method is used. In this work, we present a new approach to improve the ability of blind deconvolution method in well testing. We examined the behavior of rate data by comparing it with a special class of images and employed their common properties to represent gross behavior of extracted rate data. Results of examinations show ability of our developed algorithm to remove the effect of wellbore storage from pressure data. Our Algorithm can deal with different cases where wellbore storage has made two different reservoirs behave identical in pressure response. Even if there is no wellbore effect or after wellbore storage period is passed, proposed algorithm can work routinely without any problem.
The Costs of Downtime Incidents in Serial Multistage Manufacturing Systems
Authors: Liu Jianbo , Chang Qing , Xiao Guoxian , Biller Stephan
Published: April 2012

Downtime is arguably the single most significant contributor to system inefficiency in a multistage manufacturing system. Achieving near-zero downtime has been the ultimate goal of production operation management at the plant floor. Accurate estimation of the impact of each downtime incident is of great importance for deciding where to allocate limited resources among various manufacturing stages. In this paper, we focus on quantitative analysis of the impact of each individual downtime event in terms of permanent production loss and financial cost. We start from the transient analysis of a single downtime event and later extend to more generic scenarios where downtime incidents occur concurrently at different stages. Apart from the analytical study, a practical computation procedure using real-time production records can be readily derived and implemented at the plant floor. Case studies are conducted to demonstrate its potential in facilitating the decision making at plant floor on project identification, prioritization, and budget allocation in a multistage manufacturing system.
Serotonin Neuron Loss and Nonmotor Symptoms Continue in Parkinson’s Patients Treated with Dopamine Grafts
Authors: Politis Marios , Wu Kit , Loane Clare , Quinn Niall P. , Brooks David J. , Oertel Wolfgang H. , Björklund Anders , Lindvall Olle , Piccini Paola
Published: April 2012

Dopamine-rich fetal tissue grafts relieve motor but not nonmotor symptoms in PD patients, requiring additional therapeutic interventions to treat continuing serotonergic denervation.
T Cell Receptor αβ Diversity Inversely Correlates with Pathogen-Specific Antibody Levels in Human Cytomegalovirus Infection
Authors: Wang George C. , Dash Pradyot , McCullers Jonathan A. , Doherty Peter C. , Thomas Paul G.
Published: April 2012

CD8
+
T cell diversity may be more important than T cell abundance in limiting the negative consequences of cytomegalovirus persistence.
A New Family of Membrane Electron Transporters and Its Substrates, Including a New Cell Envelope Peroxiredoxin, Reveal a Broadened Reductive Capacity of the Oxidative Bacterial Cell Envelope
Authors: Cho Seung-Hyun , Parsonage Derek , Thurston Casey , Dutton Rachel J. , Poole Leslie B. , Collet Jean-Francois , Beckwith Jon
Published: April 2012

The
Escherichia coli
membrane protein DsbD functions as an electron hub that dispatches electrons received from the cytoplasmic thioredoxin system to periplasmic oxidoreductases involved in protein disulfide isomerization, cytochrome
c
biogenesis, and sulfenic acid reduction. Here, we describe a new class of DsbD proteins, named ScsB, whose members are found in proteobacteria and
Chlamydia
. ScsB has a domain organization similar to that of DsbD, but its amino-terminal domain differs significantly. In DsbD, this domain directly interacts with substrates to reduce them, which suggests that ScsB acts on a different array of substrates. Using
Caulobacter crescentus
as a model organism, we searched for the substrates of ScsB. We discovered that ScsB provides electrons to the first peroxide reduction pathway identified in the bacterial cell envelope. The reduction pathway comprises a thioredoxin-like protein, TlpA, and a peroxiredoxin, PprX. We show that PprX is a thiol-dependent peroxidase that efficiently reduces both hydrogen peroxide and organic peroxides. Moreover, we identified two additional proteins that depend on ScsB for reduction, a peroxiredoxin-like protein, PrxL, and a novel protein disulfide isomerase, ScsC. Altogether, our results reveal that the array of proteins involved in reductive pathways in the oxidative cell envelope is significantly broader than was previously thought. Moreover, the identification of a new periplasmic peroxiredoxin indicates that in some bacteria, it is important to directly scavenge peroxides in the cell envelope even before they reach the cytoplasm.

IMPORTANCE
Peroxides are reactive oxygen species (ROS) that damage cellular components such as lipids, proteins, and nucleic acids. The presence of protection mechanisms against ROS is essential for cell survival. Bacteria express cytoplasmic catalases and thiol-dependent peroxidases to directly scavenge harmful peroxides. We report the identification of a peroxide reduction pathway active in the periplasm of
Caulobacter crescentus
, which reveals that, in some bacteria, it is important to directly scavenge peroxides in the cell envelope even before they reach the cytoplasm. The electrons required for peroxide reduction are delivered to this pathway by ScsB, a new type of membrane electron transporter. We also identified two additional likely ScsB substrates, including a novel protein disulfide isomerase. Our results reveal that the array of proteins involved in reductive pathways in the oxidative environment of the cell envelope is significantly broader than was previously thought.
Long-term local area employment rates as predictors of individual mortality and morbidity: a prospective study in England, spanning more than two decades
Authors: Riva Mylène , Curtis Sarah E
Published: April 2012

Background

Although long-term trends in local labour market conditions are likely to influence health, few studies have assessed whether this is so. This paper examines whether (1) trends in local employment rates have relevance for mortality and morbidity outcomes in England and (2) trends are stronger predictors of these outcomes than employment rates measured at one point in time.

Methods

Using latent class growth models, local areas were classified into eight groups following distinct trends in employment rates between 1981 and 2008. Areas were also categorised in ‘octile’ groups by rank of employment rates in 2001. These area groupings were linked to a sample of 207 959 individuals from the Office of National Statistics Longitudinal Study. Associations between area groupings and risk of all-cause mortality and of reporting a limiting long-term illness at the end of the period were measured using logistic regression. Models were adjusted for individuals' socio-demographic characteristics measured in 1981 and for their residential mobility between 1981 and 2001.

Results

Compared to areas with continuously high employment rates over the period, risk of mortality and morbidity was higher in areas with persistently low or declining employment rates. Findings suggest that long-term trends in local employment rates are useful as predictors of mortality and morbidity differences. These are not so clearly distinguished by only considering employment rates at one point in time.

Conclusion

Poor health outcomes are associated with long-term economic disadvantage in some areas of England, reflected in employment rates, underlining the importance of efforts to improve health in areas with especially ‘deep-seated’ deprivation.
Probabilistic characterization of ultrasonic wave propagation in wood poles
Authors: Tallavo Fernando , Pandey Mahesh D. , Cascante Giovanni
Published: April 2012

Wood poles are widely used in North America to support power electric transmission and distribution lines. Wood poles are continuously exposed to wide ranging temperature and moisture conditions, making them vulnerable to internal decay and rotting. The resulting loss of strength makes the poles vulnerable to failure under adverse weather conditions, such as wind and snow storms. These failures can result in forced outages and customer disruptions with significant economic losses. Ultrasonic testing is a non-destructive method that has been used for detection of internal deterioration of in-service wood poles, which is based on the comparison of the measured wave velocity with a reference wave velocity associated with sound wood. The current ultrasonic methods assume that the reference wave velocity for a given wood species is constant in a pole cross section. This approach is simplistic because wood is an orthotropic material with highly variable material properties. This paper presents a method for probabilistic characterization of ultrasonic wave propagation in wood poles considering wood as an orthotropic material. A better understanding and characterization of ultrasonic wave propagation in a pole cross section will contribute to improve the condition assessment of in-service wood poles based on ultrasonic tests. As an example, P-wave velocity, surface waves, frequency response function, and magnitude spectrum area are used to characterize the propagation of ultrasonic waves at a cross section of a Douglas-fir pole of 25 cm diameter.
Confined masonry walls subjected to combined axial loads and out-of-plane uniform pressures
Authors: Varela-Rivera Jorge , Polanco-May Manuel , Fernandez-Baqueiro Luis , Moreno Eric I.
Published: April 2012

This paper presents the results of a study on the behavior of three full-scale confined masonry walls subjected to combined axial loads and out-of-plane uniform pressures. The variable studied was the wall axial load. Analytical models were developed to predict out-of-plane cracking and maximum pressures. The former was predicted using the finite element method and the latter using the spring-strut method. This last method was modified to include the effect of the wall axial load. Experimental cracking and maximum pressures were compared with those obtained from analytical models. Based on the experimental results, it was concluded that as the axial load increases, the out-of-plane maximum pressure also increases. However, this latter value is limited by crushing of the masonry. By comparing experimental and analytical results, it was concluded that the out-of-plane cracking and maximum pressures are in general well predicted by the analytical models developed in this work.
Distribution of the vanG-like gene cluster in Clostridium difficile clinical isolates
Authors: Ammam Fariza , Marvaud Jean-Christophe , Lambert Thierry
Published: April 2012

Treatment of Clostridium difficile infections generally requires cessation of their causative antibiotic and subsequent administration of metronidazole or vancomycin. Intriguingly, the genome of C. difficile 630 contains a cryptic gene cluster homologous to the vanG-type operon of Enterococcus faecalis BM4518. We detected this cluster by PCR in 35 out of 41 clinical isolates, confirming its large prevalence in this species. The cluster was found to be located in a unique locus. Comparison of this locus with that of strains devoid of the vanG-like cluster indicated that acquisition of the gene cluster occurred in a perfect 19-bp inverted repeat, in the absence of a detectable mobile structure.
Purification and characterization of azurin from the methylamine-utilizing obligate methylotrophMethylobacillus flagellatusKT
Authors: Dinarieva Tatiana Y. , Trashin Stanislav A. , Kahnt Jörg , Karyakin Arkady A. , Netrusov Alexander I.
Published: April 2012

Methylamine dehydrogenase (MADH) and azurin were purified from the periplasmic fraction of the methylamine-grown obligate methylotroph Methylobacillus flagellatus KT. The molecular mass of the purified azurin was 16.3 kDa, as measured by SDS–PAGE, or 13 920 Da as determined by MALDI–TOF mass spectrometry. Azurin of M. flagellatus KT contained 1 copper atom per molecule and had an absorption maximum at 620 nm in the oxidized state. The redox potential of azurin measured at pH 7.0 by square-wave voltammetry was +275 mV versus normal hydrogen electrode. MADH reduced azurin in the presence of methylamine, indicating that this cupredoxin is likely to be the physiological electron acceptor for MADH in the electron transport chain of the methylotroph. A scheme of electron transport functioning in M. flagellatus KТ during methylamine oxidation is proposed.
Structure of the O-antigen polysaccharide present in the lipopolysaccharide ofCronobacter dublinensis(subspecieslactaridiorlausannensis) HPB 3169
Authors: MacLean Leann L. , Vinogradov Evgeny , Pagotto Franco , Perry Malcolm B.
Published: April 2012

Cronobacter dublinensis (formerly Enterobacter sakazakii) HPB 3169 is a pathogenic Gram-negative bacterium that produces a smooth-type lipopolysaccharide in which the antigenic O-polysaccharide component was determined to be a repeating pentasaccharide unit composed of l-rhamnose; 2-acetamido-2-deoxy-d-glucose; 3,6-dideoxy-3-(R)-3-hydroxybutyramido-d-glucose; and 3-deoxy-manno-oct-2-ulosonic acid in the respective molar ratio 2:1:1:1. Chemical and 2D NMR analyses of the O-polysaccharide and a pentasaccharide derived by the mild acid hydrolysis of the ketosyl linkage of the Kdo (3-deoxy-d-manno-2-octulosonic acid) residue in the O-polysaccharide established that the O-antigen is a high molecular mass unbranched polymer of a repeating pentasaccharide unit and has the structure where Bu is a (R)-3-hydroxybutanoyl substituent. The O-antigen is structurally similar to that of the recently reported Cronobacter sakazakii strain G706 (designated as serotype O5), except that in strain G706 the d-Qui3N is in its N-acetyl form, in contrast to its presence as a 3-deoxy-3-(R)-3-hydroxybutyramido derivative in the C. sakazakii HPB 3169 strain O-antigen.
COLLAGEN AS IN VIVO QUANTITATIVE FLUORESCENT BIOMARKERS OF ABNORMAL TISSUE CHANGES
Authors: SMIRNOVA O. D. , ROGATKIN D. A. , LITVINOVA K. S.
Published: April 2012

Collagen is an endogenous fluorophore that accounts for about 70% of all proteins of human skin, so it can be an optical marker for structural abnormalities in tissues registered by laser fluorescent diagnostics in vivo. Using the examples of such abnormalities as scars, scleroderma and basal cell carcinoma, this study shows the differences between coefficients of fluorescent contrast kf(λ) of abnormalities from the ones for healthy tissues at fluorescent excitation wavelength 360–380 nm. It is shown that scars and dysplasia are characterized by reduced values of kf(λ) for collagen. Due to high turbidity and phase heterogeneousness as well as variation of parameters of blood microcirculation and concentrations of other related chromophores, there is no mathematical model that precisely calculates the concentration of collagen in tissues only with the use of the value of fluorescent signal intensity. So, probably, the best marker of the pathological process is a comprehensive representation of kf(λ) for all endogenous fluorophores, i.e., for all used visible wavelengths. In this case identification of abnormal tissues is quite possible by detecting some deviations of coefficients kf(λ) for the optically identical and symmetrical regions of the human body.
A SATURATED LIQUID DENSITY CORRELATION FOR PURE REFRIGERANTS AND OTHER SUBSTANCES
Authors: PARK KYOUNG KUHN
Published: April 2012

A modification is proposed of the Chouaieb–Ghazouani–Bellagi (CGB) correlation for the saturated liquid density. After we examined the values of the critical exponent, which is a nonlinear parameter for the CGB correlation, we assumed that the exponent deviates by a small amount from the theoretical value of 0.325. Then, a Taylor-series expansion was conducted for the CGB correlation in order to develop a new correlation with two linear adjustable parameters. Data on the saturated liquid density for 70 pure fluids including 43 refrigerants from the NIST Chemistry WebBook in the whole vapor-liquid saturation range were fitted to the new and existing correlations. The results show that the new correlation yields better performance for substances of which reduced triple point temperature is higher than 0.4. Excellent performance (i.e., AAD < 0.1%) can be achieved with the modified CGB for 14 fluids but only for four fluids with the modified Guggenheim model.
HYDROPHILIC BEHAVIOR OF POLYMER FILMS TREATED BY ATMOSPHERIC PRESSURE PLASMA
Authors: SEO SEUNG-HO , CHANG SUNGHWAN , YOO YEONG-EUN , CHUNG JAE DONG
Published: April 2012

Experiment on the surface characteristics of polymer films (PC, PET, EVA) treated by atmospheric pressure plasma has been conducted. As the process parameters, we chose frequency, gas flow and treatment time. By measuring the contact angle, we scrutinized the effects of these parameters on the hydrophilic surface characteristics of polymer materials and found the optimum operating condition of each polymer for the highest hydropilicity. In the case of PC substrate, the contact angle was changed from 83.5 ± 1.1° (before plasma treatment) to 30.4 ± 0.4° (after plasma treatment) at the optimum operating condition of 30 kHz, CDA 0.6%, and repeated number of 7. In the case of PET substrate, the contact angle change was found from 59 ± 1.1° to 23.5 ± 1.7° at 20 kHz, CDA 0.6%, and repeated number of 7. In the case of EVA substrate, the contact angle of 84 ± 0.6° changed to 44.2 ± 1.2° at 30 kHz, CDA 0.6%, and repeated number of 7. The long-term stability of the hydrophilic surfaces and section morphology were also examined by SEM. As a roll-to-roll application, the adhesion force between PET and UV resin was measured to show initial increase according to the plasma treatment time, i.e., repeated number but finally saturated to show no meaningful change, which is in line with the behavior of the contact angle according to plasma treatment time.
DEER Distance Measurements on Proteins
Authors: Jeschke Gunnar
Published: April 2012

Distance distributions between paramagnetic centers in the range of 1.8 to 6 nm in membrane proteins and up to 10 nm in deuterated soluble proteins can be measured by the DEER technique. The number of paramagnetic centers and their relative orientation can be characterized. DEER does not require crystallization and is not limited with respect to the size of the protein or protein complex. Diamagnetic proteins are accessible by site-directed spin labeling. To characterize structure or structural changes, experimental protocols were optimized and techniques for artifact suppression were introduced. Data analysis programs were developed, and it was realized that interpretation of the distance distributions must take into account the conformational distribution of spin labels. First methods have appeared for deriving structural models from a small number of distance constraints. The present scope and limitations of the technique are illustrated.
Live-Cell Super-Resolution Imaging with Synthetic Fluorophores
Authors: van de Linde Sebastian , Heilemann Mike , Sauer Markus
Published: April 2012

Super-resolution imaging methods now can provide spatial resolution that is well below the diffraction limit approaching virtually molecular resolution. They can be applied to biological samples and provide new and exciting views on the structural organization of cells and the dynamics of biomolecular assemblies on wide timescales. These revolutionary developments come with novel requirements for fluorescent probes, labeling techniques, and data interpretation strategies. Synthetic fluorophores have a small size, are available in many colors spanning the whole spectrum, and can easily be chemically modified and used for stoichiometric labeling of proteins in live cells. Because of their brightness, their photostability, and their ability to be operated as photoswitchable fluorophores even in living cells under physiological conditions, synthetic fluorophores have the potential to substantially accelerate the broad application of live-cell super-resolution imaging methods.
An intercellular pathway for glucose transport into mouse oocytes
Authors: Wang Qiang , Chi Maggie M. , Schedl Tim , Moley Kelle H.
Published: April 2012

Glucose is an essential nutrient for mammalian cells. Emerging evidence suggests that glucose within the oocyte regulates meiotic maturation. However, it remains controversial as to whether, and if so how, glucose enters oocytes within cumulus-oocyte complexes (COCs). We used a fluorescent glucose derivative (6-NBDG) to trace glucose transport within live mouse COCs and employed inhibitors of glucose transporters (GLUTs) and gap junction proteins to examine their distinct roles in glucose uptake by cumulus cells and the oocyte. We showed that fluorescent glucose enters both cumulus-enclosed and denuded oocytes. Treating COCs with GLUT inhibitors leads to simultaneous decreases in glucose uptake in cumulus cells and the surrounded oocyte but no effect on denuded oocytes. Pharmacological blockade of of gap junctions between the oocyte and cumulus cells significantly inhibited fluorescent glucose transport to oocytes. Moreover, we find that both in vivo hyperglycemic environment and in vitro high-glucose culture increase free glucose levels in oocytes via gap junctional channels. These findings reveal an intercellular pathway for glucose transport into oocytes: glucose is taken up by cumulus cells via the GLUT system and then transferred into the oocyte through gap junctions. This intercellular pathway may partly mediate the effects of high-glucose condition on oocyte quality.
Ghrelin modulates baroreflex-regulation of sympathetic vasomotor tone in healthy humans
Authors: Krapalis Alexander F. , Reiter Jacqueline , Machleidt Felix , Iwen K. Alexander , Dodt Christoph , Lehnert Hendrik , Sayk Friedhelm
Published: April 2012

Ghrelin, a neuropeptide originally known for its growth hormone-releasing and orexigenic properties, exerts important pleiotropic effects on the cardiovascular system. Growing evidence suggests that these effects are mediated by the sympathetic nervous system. The present study aimed at elucidating the acute effect of ghrelin on sympathetic outflow to the muscle vascular bed (muscle sympathetic nerve activity, MSNA) and on baroreflex-mediated arterial blood pressure (BP) regulation in healthy humans. In a randomized double-blind cross-over design, 12 lean young men were treated with a single dose of either ghrelin 2 μg/kg iv or placebo (isotonic saline). MSNA, heart rate (HR), and BP were recorded continuously from 30 min before until 90 min after substance administration. Sensitivity of arterial baroreflex was repeatedly tested by injection of vasoactive substances based on the modified Oxford protocol. Early, i.e., during the initial 30 min after ghrelin injection, BP significantly decreased together with a transient increase of MSNA and HR. In the course of the experiment (>30 min), BP approached placebo level, while MSNA and HR were significantly lower compared with placebo. The sensitivity of vascular arterial baroreflex significantly increased at 30–60 min after intravenous ghrelin compared with placebo, while HR response to vasoactive drugs was unaltered. Our findings suggest two distinct phases of ghrelin action: In the immediate phase, BP is decreased presumably due to its vasodilating effects, which trigger baroreflex-mediated counter-regulation with increases of HR and MSNA. In the delayed phase, central nervous sympathetic activity is suppressed, accompanied by an increase of baroreflex sensitivity.
Multisized Inert Particle Loading for Solid Rocket Axial Combustion Instability Suppression
Authors: Greatrix David R.
Published: April 2012

In the present investigation, various factors and trends, related to the usage of two or more sets of inert particles comprised of the same material (nominally aluminum) but at different diameters for the suppression of axial shock wave development, are numerically predicted for a composite-propellant cylindrical-grain solid rocket motor. The limit pressure wave magnitudes at a later reference time in a given pulsed firing simulation run are collected for a series of runs at different particle sizes and loading distributions and mapped onto corresponding attenuation trend charts. The inert particles’ presence in the central core flow is demonstrated to be an effective means of instability symptom suppression, in correlating with past experimental successes in the usage of particles. However, the predicted results of this study suggest that one needs to be careful when selecting more than one size of particle for a given motor application.
The Epigenetic Repertoire ofDaphnia magnaIncludes Modified Histones
Authors: Robichaud Nicole F. , Sassine Jeanette , Beaton Margaret J. , Lloyd Vett K.
Published: April 2012

Daphnids are fresh water microcrustaceans, many of which follow a cyclically parthenogenetic life cycle.Daphniaspecies have been well studied in the context of ecology, toxicology, and evolution, but their epigenetics remain largely unexamined even though sex determination, the production of sexual females and males, and distinct adult morphological phenotypes, are determined epigenetically. Here, we report on the characterization of histone modifications inDaphnia. We show that a number of histone H3 and H4 modifications are present inDaphniaembryos and histone H3 dimethylated at lysine 4 (H3K4me2) is present nonuniformly in the nucleus in a cell cycle-dependent manner. In addition, this histone modification, while present in blastula and gastrula cells as well as the somatic cells of adults, is absent or reduced in oocytes and nurse cells. Thus, the epigenetic repertoire ofDaphniaincludes modified histones and as these epigenetic forces act on a genetically homogeneous clonal populationDaphniaoffers an exceptional tool to investigate the mechanism and role of epigenetics in the life cycle and development of an ecologically important species.
Observer‐Based Finite‐Time H∞ Control of Singular Markovian Jump Systems
Authors: Zhang Yingqi , Cheng Wei , Mu Xiaowu , Guo Xiulan
Published: April 2012

This paper addresses the problem of finite‐time H∞ control via observer‐based state feedback for a family of
singular Markovian jump systems (SMJSs) with time‐varying norm‐bounded disturbance. Firstly, the concepts of
singular stochastic finite‐time boundedness and singular stochastic finite‐time H∞ stabilization via observer‐based
state feedback are given. Then an observer‐based state feedback controller is designed to ensure singular stochastic
finite‐time H∞ stabilization via observer‐based state feedback of the resulting closed‐loop error dynamic SMJS.
Sufficient criteria are presented for the solvability of the problem, which can be reduced to a feasibility problem
involving linear matrix inequalities with a fixed parameter. As an auxiliary result, we also discuss the problem
of finite‐time stabilization via observer‐based state feedback of a class of SMJSs and give sufficient conditions of
singular stochastic finite‐time stabilization via observer‐based state feedback for the class of SMJSs. Finally, illustrative
examples are given to demonstrate the validity of the proposed techniques.
Preparation and Characterization of(I2)nSensitized NanoporousTiO2with Enhanced Photocatalytic Activity under Visible-Light Irradiation
Authors: Zhang Juzheng , Liu Xin , Gao Shanmin , Liu Quanwen , Huang Baibiao , Dai Ying
Published: April 2012

A yellow/brown powder of(I2)nsensitized nanoporous TiO2was obtained via an hydrolysis with TiCl4and iodine hydrosol as raw material. I2nanoparticles in the hydrosol were used as seeds to initiate the nucleation of a precursory TiO2shell. The hybridized jumbles were further calcinated at different temperatures. The structure, crystallinity, morphology, and other physical-chemical properties of the samples are characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), N2adsorption-desorption isotherms measurements, and UV-vis diffuse reflectance spectroscopy (DRS). The formation mechanism of these(I2)nsensitized nanoporous TiO2is discussed. Methylene blue solutions were used as model wastewater to evaluate the visible light photocatalytic activity of the samples. The results indicate that iodine can exist even in high-temperature calcination for iodine being encapsulated in the nanocavities inside TiO2. The degradation of methylene blue (MB) accorded with the first-order reaction model.
Using Medical History Embedded in Biometrics Medical Card for User Identity Authentication: Data Representation by AVT Hierarchical Data Tree
Authors: Fong Simon , Zhuang Yan
Published: April 2012

User authentication has been widely used by biometric applications that work on unique bodily features, such as fingerprints, retina scan, and palm vessels recognition. This paper proposes a novel concept of biometric authentication by exploiting a user’s medical history. Although medical history may not be absolutely unique to every individual person, the chances of having two persons who share an exactly identical trail of medical and prognosis history are slim. Therefore, in addition to common biometric identification methods, medical history can be used as ingredients for generating Q&A challenges upon user authentication. This concept is motivated by a recent advancement on smart-card technology that future identity cards are able to carry patents’ medical history like a mobile database. Privacy, however, may be a concern when medical history is used for authentication. Therefore in this paper, a new method is proposed for abstracting the medical data by using attribute value taxonomies, into a hierarchical data tree (h-Data). Questions can be abstracted to various level of resolution (hence sensitivity of private data) for use in the authentication process. The method is described and a case study is given in this paper.
Application of 2-Trichloromethylbenzimidazole in Analytical Chemistry: A Highly Selective Chromogenic Reagent for Thin-Layer Chromatography and Some Other Analytical Uses
Authors: Konopski Leszek , Kiełczewska Anna
Published: April 2012

2-Trichloromethylbenzimidazole (TCMB) was used as a chromogenic reagent in organic or inorganic analysis, mainly in thin-layer chromatography (TLC). In reactions of TCMB with some heteroaromatic nitrogen containing compounds, such as azines, azoles and benzazoles, a formation of high colored products occurred. For azines, the chromogenic reaction was highly regioselective, since the both adjacentα-positionsversusthe nitrogen atom(s) must not be substituted. A TLC method of detection was developed. Thirty azines, azoles, and benzazoles were detected at the detection limit 10 ng to 1 μg. This method was also applied for detection of heteroaromatic pesticides, and the attempts to construct active and passive dosimeters for nicotine were made. In a prechromatographic reaction of aromatico-diamines with methyl trichloroacetimidate, TCMB or its derivatives were formedin situ. Followed by TLC and visualization in pyridine vapors, this procedure was applied for detection ofo-phenylenediamine derivatives. The reaction product of TCMB and pyridine (LI Complex) was identified and fully characterized. Two different reaction mechanisms: with electron deficient basic heteroaromatic compounds, like pyridine, and with more acidic compounds, for example, pyrrole, were discussed. In aqueous solutions, the LI Complex may be also used as a new indicator for complexometric, adsorption and acid-base titration of inorganic compounds.
Molecular Mechanisms for Age-Associated Mitochondrial Deficiency in Skeletal Muscle
Authors: Wagatsuma Akira , Sakuma Kunihiro
Published: April 2012

The abundance, morphology, and functional properties of mitochondria decay in skeletal muscle during the process of ageing. Although the precise mechanisms remain to be elucidated, these mechanisms include decreased mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) repair and mitochondrial biogenesis. Mitochondria possess their own protection system to repair mtDNA damage, which leads to defects of mtDNA-encoded gene expression and respiratory chain complex enzymes. However, mtDNA mutations have shown to be accumulated with age in skeletal muscle. When damaged mitochondria are eliminated by autophagy, mitochondrial biogenesis plays an important role in sustaining energy production and physiological homeostasis. The capacity for mitochondrial biogenesis has shown to decrease with age in skeletal muscle, contributing to progressive mitochondrial deficiency. Understanding how these endogenous systems adapt to altered physiological conditions during the process of ageing will provide a valuable insight into the underlying mechanisms that regulate cellular homeostasis. Here we will summarize the current knowledge about the molecular mechanisms responsible for age-associated mitochondrial deficiency in skeletal muscle. In particular, recent findings on the role of mtDNA repair and mitochondrial biogenesis in maintaining mitochondrial functionality in aged skeletal muscle will be highlighted.