bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Matrix production and remodeling as therapeutic targets for uterine leiomyoma
Authors: Fujisawa Caitlin , Castellot John J.
Published: July 2014

Uterine leiomyoma, commonly known as fibroids, is a benign neoplasm of smooth muscle in women. The incidence of clinically symptomatic fibroids in reproductive‐age women is approximately 20 %, with nearly 80 % of black women suffering from this condition. Symptoms include severe pain and hemorrhage; fibroids are also a major cause of infertility or sub‐fertility in women. Uterine leiomyoma consist of hyperplastic smooth muscle cells and an excess deposition of extracellular matrix, specifically collagen, fibronectin, and sulfated proteoglycans. Extracellular matrix components interact and signal through integrin‐β1 on the surface of uterine leiomyoma smooth muscle cells, provide growth factor storage, and act as co‐receptors for growth factor‐receptor binding. ECM and growth factor signaling through integrin‐β1 and growth factor receptors significantly increases cell proliferation and ECM deposition in uterine leiomyoma. Growth factors TGF‐β, IGF, PDGF, FGF and EGF are all shown to promote uterine leiomyoma progression and signal through multiple pathways to increase the expression of genes encoding matrix or matrix‐modifying proteins. Decreasing integrin expression, reducing growth factor action and inhibiting ECM action on uterine leiomyoma smooth muscle cells are important opportunities to treat uterine leiomyoma without use of the current surgical procedures. Both natural compounds and chemicals are shown to decrease fibrosis and uterine leiomyoma progression, but further analysis is needed to make inroads in treating this common women’s health issue.
FOXO1 3′UTR functions as a ceRNA in repressing the metastases of breast cancer cells via regulating miRNA activity
Authors: Yang Jue , Li Tong , Gao Chao , Lv Xiaobo , Liu Kunmei , Song Hui , Xing Yingying , Xi Tao
Published: July 2014

The competitive endogenous RNAs (ceRNAs) are RNA molecules that affect each other's expression through competition for their shared microRNAs (miRNAs). In this study we explored whether FOXO1 3′UTR can function as a ceRNA in repressing epithelial‐to‐mesenchymal transition (EMT) and metastasis of breast cancer cells via regulating miR‐9 activity. We found that miR‐9 binds to both the FOXO1‐ and E‐cadherin‐3′UTR, indicating that the FOXO1‐ and E‐cadherin‐3′UTR can be linked through miR‐9. Follow‐up analyses showed that there existed a competition of miR‐9 between FOXO1 and E‐cadherin‐3′UTR. Thus FOXO1 3′UTR inhibits the metastases of breast cancer cells via induction of E‐cadherin expression. Our results suggest that FOXO1 3′UTR may function as a miRNA‐inhibitor in modulating metastasis of breast cancer cells.
Ornithine cyclodeaminase/μ‐crystallin homolog from the hyperthermophilic archaeon Thermococcus litoralis functions as a novel Δ1‐pyrroline‐2‐carboxylate reductase involved in putative trans‐3‐hydroxy‐l‐proline metabolism
Authors: Watanabe Seiya , Tozawa Yuzuru , Watanabe Yasuo
Published: July 2014

l‐Ornithine cyclodeaminase (OCD) is involved in l‐proline biosynthesis and catalyzes the unique deaminating cyclization of l‐ornithine to l‐proline via a Δ1‐pyrroline‐2‐carboxyrate (Pyr2C) intermediate. Although this pathway functions in only a few bacteria, many archaea possess OCD‐like genes (proteins), among which only AF1665 protein (gene) from Archaeoglobus fulgidus has been characterized as an NAD+‐dependent l‐alanine dehydrogenase (AfAlaDH). However, the physiological role of OCD‐like proteins from archaea has been unclear. Recently, we revealed that Pyr2C reductase, involved in trans‐3‐hydroxy‐l‐proline (T3LHyp) metabolism of bacteria, belongs to the OCD protein superfamily and catalyzes only the reduction of Pyr2C to l‐proline (no OCD activity) [FEBS Open Bio (2014) 4, 240–250]. In this study, based on bioinformatics analysis, we assumed that the OCD‐like gene from Thermococcus litoralis DSM 5473 is related to T3LHyp and/or proline metabolism (TlLhpI). Interestingly, TlLhpI showed three different enzymatic activities: AlaDH; N‐methyl‐l‐alanine dehydrogenase; Pyr2C reductase. Kinetic analysis suggested strongly that Pyr2C is the preferred substrate. In spite of their similar activity, TlLhpI had a poor phylogenetic relationship to the bacterial and mammalian reductases for Pyr2C and formed a close but distinct subfamily to AfAlaDH, indicating convergent evolution. Introduction of several specific amino acid residues for OCD and/or AfAlaDH by site‐directed mutagenesis had marked effects on both AlaDH and Pyr2C reductase activities. The OCC_00387 gene, clustered with the TlLhpI gene on the genome, encoded T3LHyp dehydratase, homologous to the bacterial and mammalian enzymes. To our knowledge, this is the first report of T3LHyp metabolism from archaea.
Evolution of International Environmental Regimes
Authors: Schiele Simone
Published: July 2014

Drawing specifically on the international climate regime, Simone Schiele examines international environmental regimes from a legal perspective and analyses a core feature of international regimes - their ability to evolve over time. In particular, she develops a theoretical framework based on general international law which allows for a thorough examination of the understanding of international law and the options for law-creation in international environmental regimes. The analysis therefore provides both a coherent understanding of the international climate regime and a starting point for further research in other regimes.
Arendt's Jeremiad: ReadingOn Revolutionin a Time of Decline
Authors: Arnold Jeremy
Published: July 2014

Contemporary American discourse is saturated with worries about, or hopes for, America's decline. However, fears of America's decline have been a persistent theme of American writing since the second generation of New England Puritans, worries contained in the genre of the Americanized jeremiad. I will argue that Arendt'sOn Revolutionshould be read as a jeremiad that both repeats and problematizes the spiritual/material opposition of the classic American decline narrative. SeeingOn Revolutionas a jeremiad—a literary form central to American writing and dominated by a mood of despair and lamentation over decline that also issues in a positive call to remembrance and action—enables us to better account for a persistently misunderstood feature of Arendt's argument and to use the text as a political and theoretical resource for responding to powerful and unsettling political movements dominating American politics.
Churchyard and cemetery in an English industrial city: Sheffield, 1740–1900
Authors: RUGG JULIE , STIRLING FIONA , CLAYDEN ANDY
Published: July 2014

Accounts of nineteenth-century burial practice in England borrow heavily from French historiography, which describes the way that scientific agendas drove a shift from traditional churchyard use to secular, municipal cemetery management. A challenge to this meta-narrative uses the example of Sheffield. In this highly industrialized city, the nineteenth century did not see a dichotomized translation from churchyard to cemetery; the Church Building Act (1818) was more effective in meeting burial demand than the 1836 General Cemetery; the formal closure of churchyards did not always lead to a cessation of burial; and by the century's end, church burial provision remained substantial.
I-DAQ: a New Test to Assess Direct and Indirect Aggression Free of Response Bias
Authors: Ruiz-Pamies Mireia , Lorenzo-Seva Urbano , Morales-Vives Fabia , Cosi Sandra , Vigil-Colet Andreu
Published: July 2014

Self-reports of aggression are deeply impacted by response bias, especially by social desirability, but there are no specific methods for controlling this bias. Furthermore, despite the importance of the subject few instruments have been designed to assess both direct and indirect forms of aggression. The aim of the present research was to develop a brief measure that comprises both forms of aggression and which makes it possible to obtain scores free of social desirability and acquiescence effects. The scales were created using recently developed methods for controlling response bias effects in a sample of 750 participants over a wide age range. The items were chosen by a panel of judges from among the best of the existing aggression measures. Confirmatory factor analysis showed the expected three factor structure (CFI = .98; AGFI = .97 and RSMEA = .078, 90% C.I. = .074 – .083) and the scales showed good psychometric properties in that they had good reliability (ranging from θxx = .77 to θxx = .83), and convergent and criterion validity.
Physical Perceptions and Self-Concept in Athletes with Muscle Dysmorphia Symptoms
Authors: González-Martí Irene , Fernández Bustos Juan Gregorio , Hernández-Martínez Andrea , Contreras Jordán Onofre Ricardo
Published: July 2014

Individuals affected by Muscle Dysmorphia (MD; body image disorder based on the sub estimation of muscle size), practice weightlifting in order to alleviate their muscular dissatisfaction. Although physical activity is associated with increased physical self-perception, we assume that this was not reproduced in full in people with MD. The study sample consisted of 734 weightlifters and bodybuilders, 562 men and 172 women, who completed the Escala de Satisfacción Muscular, the Physical Self-Concept Questionnaire, and from whom measures of body fat and Fat -Free Mass Index (FFMI) were obtained. The results showed that people suffering from MD symptoms, overall, have poorer physical self-concept perceptions (F = 18.46 - 34.77, p < .01).
The Importance of Personality and Parental Styles on Optimism in
Adolescents
Authors: Zanon Cristian , Bastianello Micheline Roat , Pacico Juliana Cerentini , Hutz Claudio Simon
Published: July 2014

Some studies have suggested that personality factors are important to optimism
development. Others have emphasized that family relations are relevant variables
to optimism. This study aimed to evaluate the importance of parenting styles to
optimism controlling for the variance accounted for by personality factors.
Participants were 344 Brazilian high school students (44% male) with mean age of
16.2 years (SD = 1) who answered personality,
optimism, responsiveness and demandingness scales. Hierarchical regression
analyses were conducted having personality factors (in the first step) and
maternal and paternal parenting styles, and demandingness and responsiveness (in
the second step) as predictive variables and optimism as the criterion.
Personality factors, especially neuroticism (β
= –.34, p < .01), extraversion
(β = .26, p
< .01) and agreeableness (β =
.16, p < .01), accounted for 34% of the optimism
variance and insignificant variance was predicted exclusively by parental styles
(1%). These findings suggest that personality is more important to optimism
development than parental styles.
Evaluation of apoptosis in varicose vein disease complicated by superficial vein thrombosis
Authors: Filis Konstantinos , Kavantzas Nikolaos , Dalainas Ilias , Galyfos George , Karanikola Evridiki , Toutouzas Konstantinos , Tsioufis Constantinos , Sigala Fragiska
Published: July 2014

Background: The factors contributing to superficial vein thrombosis (SVT) in patients with varicose vein disease are unclear. Differences in vein wall apoptotic activity could be associated with the pathogenesis of SVT. The aim of the study is to address the role of the programmed cell death in the vein wall by comparing varicose veins with history of SVT to uncomplicated varicose veins. Patients and methods: Vein segments from the proximal part of the great saphenous vein (GSV), the distal part of the vein and from a varicose tributary, from 16 patients with varicose vein disease and one episode of SVT, were evaluated for the immunohistochemical expression of pro-apoptotic (Bax, p53, Caspase 3, BCL-6, BCL-xs), anti-apoptotic (BCL-xl and BCL-2) and proliferation (Ki-67) markers. The results of this study were compared to the results from the evaluation of 19 patients suffering from uncomplicated varicose vein disease and 10 healthy GSVs as controls. Results: Overall, there was increased apoptosis in the distal part of GSV compared to the proximal part documented by increased expression of Bax (p < 0.01), Caspase 3 (p = 0.01), BCL-xs (p < 0.01). The comparisons of the markers expression between patients with varicose veins and patients with a history of SVT showed significant differences among the three different anatomic locations. In the proximal GSV, only BCL-xs was higher in patients with SVT (p = 0.029). In the tributaries, Bax, BCL-xl and Ki-67 were higher in patients with SVT (p < 0.01). In the distal GSV, increased Bax, BCL-xs, BCL-xl and Ki-67 staining was observed in the thrombosis group compared to uncomplicated veins (p < 0.01). Conclusions: The vein wall in SVT shows increased pro-apoptotic activity compared to uncomplicated disease and normal veins. Whether increased vein wall cell apoptosis is a causative factor for SVT in varicose veins disease or a repairing mechanism of the thrombosis itself needs further research.
Schüleräußerungen und Leistungen beim kooperativen Lernen mit Concept Maps
Authors: Händel Marion
Published: July 2014

In dieser Videostudie wurden Schüleräußerungen beim kooperativen Concept Mapping hinsichtlich ihres Einflusses auf individuelle und gemeinschaftliche Lernergebnisse untersucht. Insgesamt 49 Schülerinnen und Schüler der 8. Jahrgangsstufe erarbeiteten in Lerngruppen von drei bis vier Schülerinnen und Schülern Inhalte aus dem Themenbereich Blutgefäße und Blutkreislauf. In der Studie wurde analysiert, wie Schüleräußerungen neben dem Vorwissen und den verbalen Fähigkeiten mit der individuellen und kooperativen Leistung zusammenhängen. Die Ergebnisse deuten darauf hin, dass die während des Lernprozesses erfassten Schüleräußerungen einen Beitrag zur Aufklärung der Leistung beim kooperativen Lernen liefern können. Dies stellt insofern einen positiven Befund dar, da nicht nur die Eingangsvoraussetzungen, sondern das Verhalten im Lernprozess relevant für die Leistung sind. Unterschiede zeigten sich jedoch in Abhängigkeit der Gruppenzusammensetzung, was die Bedeutsamkeit des Austausches zwischen den Gruppenmitgliedern unterstreicht; ein Faktor, der in zukünftigen Studien weiterer Untersuchung bedarf.
Entwicklung schriftsprachlicher und mathematischer Leistungen bei Kindern mit und ohne Migrationshintergrund
Authors: Dummert Friederike , Endlich Darius , Schneider Wolfgang , Schwenck Christina
Published: July 2014

Während zahlreiche Untersuchungen der letzten Jahrzehnte die Bedeutung von individuellen Unterschieden im Bereich der Intelligenz und der sozialen Schichtzugehörigkeit wie auch des Geschlechts für die schulische Leistungsentwicklung in unterschiedlichen Inhaltsbereichen dokumentiert haben, fehlt es immer noch an Studien im Grundschulbereich, die den Anteil des Migrationshintergrunds (MH) an diesen Unterschieden genauer erfassen. Die vorliegende Längsschnittstudie mit mehr als 500 unterfränkischen Grundschulkindern ging dieser Frage insofern nach, als der spezifische Einfluss des MH auf die Entwicklung in den Bereichen Lesen, Rechtschreiben und Mathematik genauer untersucht wurde. Während die Relevanz von IQ, Schichtzugehörigkeit und Geschlecht für die Leistungsentwicklung in diesen Bereichen bestätigt werden konnte, fanden sich nur wenige Anhaltspunkte dafür, dass der MH zusätzlich eine bedeutsame Rolle spielte. Eine im Vergleich zum Bundesdurchschnitt geringere Migrationsquote in der Stichprobe und die systematische Vorschulförderung in der Region Unterfranken werden als mögliche Einflussfaktoren für diesen abweichenden Befund diskutiert.
Gibt es einen Videodefiziteffekt bei Aufgaben zur Theory of Mind?
Authors: Reiß Mirjam , Becker Antje , Krist Horst
Published: July 2014

Das Ziel der vorliegenden Studie bestand darin, einen möglichen Einfluss des Darbietungsmodus auf die Leistung von Vorschulkindern in einer Aufgabe zur Theory of Mind (ToM) zu überprüfen. Dazu wurden die Leistungen von 94 Kindern zwischen 3 und 5 Jahren in einer klassischen Ortsverlagerungsaufgabe zum Verständnis falscher Überzeugungen ( Wimmer & Perner, 1983 ) untersucht. Den Kindern wurde die Originalgeschichte entweder live oder als Videofilm präsentiert. Erstmalig konnte ein signifikanter Effekt des Darbietungsmodus in einer Aufgabe zur ToM nachgewiesen werden. Dieser ergab sich in der Altersgruppe der 4-Jährigen. Unabhängig vom Darbietungsmodus antworteten 3-Jährige überzufällig falsch und 5-Jährige überzufällig korrekt. Der nachgewiesene Effekt des Darbietungsmodus wird vor dem Hintergrund bereits bestehender Theorien zum sogenannten Videodefiziteffekt (VDE) diskutiert.
Prosoziales Verhalten in Kindheit und Adoleszenz
Authors: Bayard Sybille , Malti Tina , Buchmann Marlis
Published: July 2014

Dieser Beitrag untersucht Einflüsse inner- und außerfamiliärer Beziehungen auf das prosoziale Verhalten von Heranwachsenden aus sozialisationstheoretischer Perspektive. Aufgrund der sich ändernden Qualität familiärer Beziehungen im Zuge des Aufwachsens vergleichen wir dabei zwei Entwicklungsstadien, mittlere Kindheit und mittlere Adoleszenz. Die inner-familiären Beziehungen in der Paardyade und der Eltern-Kind-Dyade unterscheiden wir nach affektiver und kommunikativer Dimension. Unter den außerfamiliären Beziehungen subsumieren wir elterliche Interaktionserfahrungen am Arbeitsplatz und im Freundeskreis. Es werden die beiden ersten Wellen (2006, 2007) der jüngsten Kohorte (6-Jährige) und der mittleren Kohorte (15-Jährige) des Schweizerischen Kinder- und Jugendsurvey (COCON) genutzt. Die Befunde zeigen, dass die Qualität der elterlichen Paarbeziehung vor allem in der Kindheit auf das prosoziale Verhalten wirkt. Hingegen ist die innerfamiliäre Qualität der Kommunikation für die Herausbildung prosozialen Verhaltens in der Adoleszenz bedeutsamer. Die außerfamiliären Beziehungen wirken über die affektive und kommunikative Qualität innerfamiliärer Beziehungen auf das prosoziale Verhalten.
Das Reduktionsprinzip in therapeutisch orientierten Spielprozessen
Authors: Otto Enrico
Published: July 2014

Reduktion in Spielprozessen defezitärer Persönlichkeiten bedeutet weder eine Verkleinerung des theatralischen Ablaufs noch Textstreichungen, sondern eine Vereinfachung des theatralisch-semiotischen Systems zugunsten einer theatralischen Wiedergabe, die auf der szenischenVermittlung typusbezogener, eigener Realität beruht. Diese kann in ihrer Verhaltensweise diskutiert und korrigiert werden, um dann in eine künstlich-literarische Realität überzugehen. Defizite sind in vertrauter Umgebung eher aufschlüsselbar und gehen als korrigierte Realität in einen Gruppenprozeß des Spiels erfolgreich über. Spiel wird damit zum erweiterten Realitätsbegriff des spielenden Typus.
Das Musikalische Konzentrationstraining mit Pepe
Authors: Hillmer Jana-Mareike , Rothmann Kathrin
Published: July 2014

Der Aufmerksamkeitsdefizit-/Hyperaktivitätsstörung wird in der Forschung zusehends mehr Bedeutung beigemessen, da sie mit einer Prävalenz von 4,8 % zu den häufigsten psychischen Erkrankungen im Kindes- und Jugendalter zählt (KiGGS; Schlack, Hölling, Kurth & Huss, 2007 ). Zudem wächst der Bedarf an alternativen Behandlungsmöglichkeiten neben der Pharmakotherapie. Das hier vorgestellte Musikalische Konzentrationstraining mit Pepe stellt ein innovatives Gruppenprogramm für fünf- bis zehnjährige Kinder mit Konzentrationsproblemen dar. Angelehnt an verhaltenstherapeutische Grundlagen nutzt es Musik als Lern- und Lehrmittel, um die Neugier, Offenheit und Kreativität sowie den Bewegungsdrang der Kinder sinnvoll zu nutzen. Die strukturierten Rhythmus- und Bewegungsübungen zielen auf eine Förderung der fokussierten, geteilten und Daueraufmerksamkeit ab. Weitere Elemente des Trainings wie die Teamarbeit, die Leitfigur Pepe und seine Ampel sollen das Sozialverhalten, die Impulskontrolle sowie die Eigenverantwortlichkeit der Kinder schulen. Die Besonderheiten des Musikalischen Konzentrationstrainings mit Pepe sowie dessen Wirkfaktoren werden im vorliegenden Beitrag präsentiert.
Visualization of asymmetric wetting ridges on soft solids with X-ray microscopy
Authors: Park Su Ji , Weon Byung Mook , Lee Ji San , Lee Junho , Kim Jinkyung , Je Jung Ho
Published: July 2014

One of the most questionable issues in wetting is the force balance that includes the vertical component of liquid surface tension. On soft solids, the vertical component leads to a microscopic protrusion of the contact line, that is, a ‘wetting ridge’. The wetting principle determining the tip geometry of the ridge is at the heart of the issues over the past half century. Here we reveal a universal wetting principle from the ridge tips directly visualized with high spatio-temporal resolution of X-ray microscopy. We find that the cusp of the ridge is bent with an asymmetric tip, whose geometry is invariant during ridge growth or by surface softness. This singular asymmetry is deduced by linking the macroscopic and microscopic contact angles to Young and Neuman laws, respectively. Our finding shows that this dual-scale approach would be contributable to a general framework in elastowetting, and give hints to issues in cell-substrate interaction and elasto-capillary problems.
Whole-exome sequencing identifies Y1495X of SCN5A to be associated with familial conduction disease and sudden death
Authors: Tan Zhi-Ping , Xie Li , Deng Yao , Chen Jin-Lan , Zhang Wei-Zhi , Wang Jian , Yang Jin-Fu , Yang Yi-Feng
Published: July 2014

SCN5A mutations have been reported to underlie a variety of inherited arrhythmias, while the complex overlapping phenotype, especially with congenital heart disease (CHD), is rarely reported. The 48-year-old proband underwent a recent syncope during rest. A CHD (tetralogy of Fallot) and conduction disease was revealed by echocardiogram and ultrasonic cardiogram examination. We combined whole-exome sequencing (WES) and bioinformatics strategies to identify the pathogenic gene for this autosomal-dominant cardiac conduction disease (CCD) in a multi-generation pedigree. We examined four members of this family, including three affected and one unaffected. A novel nonsense mutation (Y1495X) in SCN5A was identified in the affected family members. This mutation is predicted to generate a truncated SCN5A protein, which could result in the loss of sodium current, a defined mechanism of SCN5A related arrhythmias. Our study provides evidence that WES is a highly effective approach for genetic analyses of rare clinical phenotypes. Our study also offers accurate genetic testing information for those yet clinically negative relatives.
Generation of light with controllable spatial patterns via the sum frequency in quasi-phase matching crystals
Authors: Zhou Zhi-Yuan , Li Yan , Ding Dong-Sheng , Jiang Yun-Kun , Zhang Wei , Shi Shuai , Shi Bao-Sen , Guo Guang-Can
Published: July 2014

Light beams with extraordinary spatial structures, such as the Airy beam (AB), the Bessel-Gaussian beam (BGB) and the Laguerre-Gaussian beam (LGB), are widely studied and applied in many optical scenarios. We report on preparation of light beams with controllable spatial structures through sum frequency generation (SFG) using two Gaussian pump beams in a quasi-phase matching (QPM) crystal. The spatial structures, including multi-ring-like BGB, donut-like LGB and super-Gaussian-like beams, can be controlled periodically via crystal phase mismatching by tuning the pump frequency or crystal temperature. This phenomenon has not been reported or discussed previously. Additionally, we present numerical simulations of the phenomenon, which agree very well with the experimental observations. Our findings give further insight into the SFG process in QPM crystals, provide a new way to generate light with unusual spatial structures and may find applications in the fields of laser optics, all-optical switching and optical manipulation and trapping.
Hydroisomerization of long-chain paraffins over nano-sized bimetallic Pt–Pd/H-beta catalysts
Authors: Bauer Frank , Ficht Karsten , Bertmer Marko , Einicke Wolf-Dietrich , Kuchling Thomas , Gläser Roger
Published: July 2014

The hydroisomerization of long-chain n-paraffins was studied in the temperature range of 205–230 °C at pH2 = 50 bar over bimetallic catalysts consisting of mixtures of platinum and palladium supported on commercially available nano-sized zeolite beta.
Novel EDTA-ligands containing an integral perylene bisimide (PBI) core as an optical reporter unit
Authors: Marcia Mario , Singh Prabhpreet , Hauke Frank , Maggini Michele , Hirsch Andreas
Published: July 2014

The synthesis, characterization and metal complexation of a new class of perylene bisimides (PBIs) as an integral part of ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA) are reported.
Robustness of Radon transform to white additive noise: general case study
Authors: Nacereddine N. , Tabbone S. , Ziou D.
Published: July 2014

A detailed study is presented on the robustness of the Radon transform to additive white noise for the general case of a rectangular grey‐level image.
Low‐power 25.4–33.5 GHz programmable multi‐modulus frequency divider
Authors: Liu Faen , Wang Zhigong , Li Zhiqun , Li Qin , Yang Geliang , Guo Ting
Published: July 2014

A 25.4–33.5 GHz wideband CMOS programmable multi‐modulus divider with low power consumption is demonstrated. For a high operating frequency and low power consumption, a direct injection‐locked frequency divider is used as the prescaler and followed directly by a dual‐modulus divided‐by‐8/9 divider without any driving circuits. The dynamic‐loading CML D flip‐flips are utilised in the dual‐modulus divider which further reduces the power consumption. Implemented in a 90 nm CMOS process, a frequency division from 542 to 654 in steps of 2 is achieved. Measurements show that the self‐resonant frequency of the divider is 14.76 GHz, and the locking range is from 25.4 to 33.5 GHz for the total frequency division ratio at an input power of 0 dBm. The power consumption for the maximum division ratio and 0 dBm input power is 15.48 mW at a supply voltage of 1.2 V. The total chip size is 0.72 × 0.47 mm.
Hardware block for use in programmable microwave function arrays
Authors: Kelly J.R. , Borja A.L.
Published: July 2014

Ultimately, the research presented will lead to the development of a microwave integrated circuit that is analogous to a field programmable gate array. An early step towards the development of this technology is presented. Specifically, a 3‐port device, based on a single resonant element, namely a microstrip square patch, is described. The device operates simultaneously as a filter and an antenna. Filter performance is obtained between ports 1 and 2. Antenna performance is obtained on port 3.
Adaptive time division duplexing network with network coding embedded two‐way relay
Authors: Hu Sanqing , Yao Yu‐Dong
Published: July 2014

Using relays to receive and forward packets between a network base station and network users is a promising solution to address the cellular coverage issue. In this study, we consider time division duplexing (TDD) networks and explore the use of network coding for implementing the relays. Several transmission scenarios are investigated, including direction transmissions, one‐way relay and two‐way relay. In addition, we propose an adaptive TDD network, which enables the network to adaptively configure frame structures based on channel conditions to support direct transmissions, cooperative relay and two‐hop relay (one‐way and two‐way). An opportunistic decoding scheme and a relay operation scheme are introduced to realise the proposed adaptive TDD network in a distributed manner. Both throughput and outage probability are derived. Performance evaluations show that the proposed adaptive TDD network based on network coding achieves the maximum throughput, as compared with one‐way relay (without network coding), and extends the cell coverage range (compared with direct transmissions).
Improved C‐dump converter for switched reluctance motor drives
Authors: Tomczewski Krzysztof , Wrobel Krzysztof
Published: July 2014

This study presents a new power converter for switched reluctance motor‐based drives. In comparison with the standard power systems, the proposed one allows reduction of the switching losses, especially in a low‐speed range, as well as eliminates energy intake from source during the energy discharge process. As a result the efficiency of drive can be increased in the entire range of rotational speed. The computer model of the drive and a detailed study on relationships between the output power and the rotational speed for a sample two‐phase motor‐based drive are presented. To verify simulations results the measurements on the laboratory test‐stand are carried out.
O2($b^1 \Sigma _g^ +$b1Σg+, υ = 0, 1) relative yields in O(1D) + O2 energy transfer
Authors: Pejaković Dušan A. , Copeland Richard A. , Slanger Tom G. , Kalogerakis Konstantinos S.
Published: July 2014

Energy transfer from O(1D) to O2 is the main source of O2($b^1 \Sigma _g^ +$b1Σg+) in vibrational levels υ = 0 and 1 in the Earth's thermosphere. Knowledge of the relative yields for O2($b^1 \Sigma _g^ +$b1Σg+) production in υ = 0 and 1 is essential for a reliable interpretation and modeling of the O2 atmospheric band emissions ($b^1 \Sigma _g^ +$b1Σg+–$X\,^3 \Sigma _g^ -$XΣg−3) from these two vibrational levels. We report laboratory measurements of the relative yields at room temperature. In the experiments, O2($b^1 \Sigma _g^ +$b1Σg+, υ = 0, 1) is generated by O(1D) + O2 collisions following partial photodissociation of O2 at 157.6 nm. O2($b^1 \Sigma _g^ +$b1Σg+, υ = 0, 1) emission detection is used to monitor the temporal evolution of the vibrational level populations. The measured fractional yield for υ = 1 is 0.8 ± 0.1, in contrast with the results of previous studies that indicated dominant O2($b^1 \Sigma _g^ +$b1Σg+, υ = 0) production. A revision is warranted of the values used for these relative yields in atmospheric models.
Softening of antiferroelectricity in PbZrO3-Pb(Mn1/2W1/2)O3 complex perovskite solid solution
Authors: Ren Zihe , Zhang Nan , Su Lun-Wei , Wu Hua , Ye Zuo-Guang
Published: July 2014

A new solid solution of complex perovksite structure, (1-x)PbZrO3-xPb(Mn1/2W1/2)O3 (PZ-xPMnW, with x = 0–0.1), is prepared by solid state reaction method. Its crystal structure, dielectric properties, and antiferroelectricity are investigated. It is found that the crystal structure of the solid solution remains in the orthorhombic Pbam symmetry with x ≤ 0.1. The induced ferroelectric polarization (PInd) is enhanced, whereas the critical field (ECr) is decreased, with increasing PMnW concentration, indicating the softening of antiferroelectricity in PZ. The Curie temperature (TC) is also decreased with the substitution of PMnW for PZ. The grain size is significantly enlarged, which could be attributed to the presence of a transient liquid phase during the sintering process. Measurements of the magnetization by means of SQUID confirm that the Mn ion exists in a high spin state with a 2+ oxidation state. The softening of antiferroelectric order and the improvement in induced polarization make the PZ-PMnW ceramics an interesting material system for such applications as energy storage devices.
Molecular-dynamics calculation of the vacancy heat of transport
Authors: Schelling Patrick K. , Ernotte Jacques , Shokeen Lalit , Woods Halley J. , Tucker William C.
Published: July 2014

We apply the recently developed constrained-dynamics method to elucidate the thermodiffusion of vacancies in a single-component material. The derivation and assumptions used in the method are clearly explained. Next, the method is applied to compute the reduced heat of transport Qv*−hfv for vacancies in a single-component material. Results from simulations using three different Morse potentials, with one providing an approximate description of Au, and an embedded-atom model potential for Ni are presented. It is found that the reduced heat of transport Qv*−hfv may take either positive or negative values depending on the potential parameters and exhibits some dependence on temperature. It is also found that Qv*−hfv may be correlated with the activation entropy. The results are discussed in comparison with experimental and previous simulation results.
Numerical investigation of the double-arcing phenomenon in a cutting arc torch
Authors: Mancinelli B. R. , Minotti F. O. , Prevosto L. , Kelly H.
Published: July 2014

A numerical investigation of the double-arcing phenomenon in a cutting arc torch is reported. The dynamics of the double-arcing were simulated by using a two-dimensional model of the gas breakdown development in the space-charge layer contiguous to the nozzle of a cutting arc torch operated with oxygen. The kinetic scheme includes ionization of heavy particles by electron impact, electron attachment, electron detachment, electron–ion recombination, and ion–ion recombination. Complementary measurements during double-arcing phenomena were also conducted. A marked rise of the nozzle voltage was found. The numerical results showed that the dynamics of a cathode spot at the exit of the nozzle inner surface play a key role in the raising of the nozzle voltage, which in turn allows more electrons to return to the wall at the nozzle inlet. The return flow of electrons thus closes the current loop of the double-arcing. The increase in the (floating) nozzle voltage is due to the fact that the increased electron emission at the spot is mainly compensated by the displacement current (the ions do not play a relevant role due to its low-mobility) until that the stationary state is achieved and the electron return flow fully-compensates the electron emission at the spot. A fairly good agreement was found between the model and the experiment for a spot emission current growth rate of the order of 7 × 104 A/s.
Enhanced optical power of GaN-based light-emitting diode with compound photonic crystals by multiple-exposure nanosphere-lens lithography
Authors: Zhang Yonghui , Wei Tongbo , Xiong Zhuo , Shang Liang , Tian Yingdong , Zhao Yun , Zhou Pengyu , Wang Junxi , Li Jinmin
Published: July 2014

The light-emitting diodes (LEDs) with single, twin, triple, and quadruple photonic crystals (PCs) on p-GaN are fabricated by multiple-exposure nanosphere-lens lithography (MENLL) process utilizing the focusing behavior of polystyrene spheres. Such a technique is easy and economical for use in fabricating compound nano-patterns. The optimized tilted angle is decided to be 26.6° through mathematic calculation to try to avoid the overlay of patterns. The results of scanning electron microscopy and simulations reveal that the pattern produced by MENLL is a combination of multiple ovals. Compared to planar-LED, the light output power of LEDs with single, twin, triple, and quadruple PCs is increased by 14.78%, 36.03%, 53.68%, and 44.85% under a drive current 350 mA, respectively. Furthermore, all PC-structures result in no degradation of the electrical properties. The stimulated results indicate that the highest light extraction efficiency of LED with the clover-shape triple PC is due to the largest scattering effect on propagation of light from GaN into air.
Including essential oils in lactating dairy cow diets: effects on methane emissions
Authors: Meale S. J. , Chaves A. V. , McAllister T. A. , Iwaasa A. D. , Yang W. Z. , Benchaar C.
Published: July 2014

The objective of this study was to examine the effects of dietary supplementation of garlic and juniper berry essential oils on methane (CH4) and carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions from lactating dairy cows. Four ruminally cannulated, lactating Holstein cows were used in a 4 × 4 Latin square (21-day period; 11 days of adaptation). Cows were fed a total mixed ration (60 : 40 forage : concentrate ratio) without supplementation (no additive; negative control) or supplemented with monensin (330 mg/day; positive control), garlic oil (5 g/day) or juniper berry oil (2 g/day). Methane and CO2 emissions were measured using the sulfur hexafluoride tracer technique. Dietary supplementation of lactating cows with juniper berry oil or garlic oil did not affect (P > 0.05) CH4 or CO2 production, whether expressed as g/day, g/kg DMI, g/kg milk or as g/kg DMI/BW0.75. At the doses administered in this study, the anti-methanogenic effect of garlic and juniper berry oils previously observed in vitro were not confirmed in vivo.
Growth rate of weaned lambs grazing brown midrib sorghum (Sorghum bicolor) supplemented with increasing levels of soybean meal
Authors: Piaggio L. , Marichal M. de J. , del Pino M. L. , Deschenaux H.
Published: July 2014

The aim of the present study was to describe the relationship between increasing levels of soybean meal (SBM) supplementation and the growth rate of weaned lambs grazing brown midrib (BMR) sorghum. Sixty Corriedale weaned lambs (3 months old) were divided into 12 homogeneous groups and allocated into three blocks of BMR sorghum (stocking density: 50 lambs/ha) of four plots each. In each block, lambs were assigned (5 lambs/plot.block) to one of the following treatments: grazing sorghum, grazing sorghum + 115 g SBM/lamb.day, grazing sorghum + 230 g SBM/lamb.day, and grazing sorghum + 345 g SBM/lamb.day. Rotational grazing management was implemented. Lambs were weighed at the beginning of the experiment. Final bodyweight and average daily gain (ADG) were analysed according to a completely randomised block design. The relationship between SBM supplementation level and ADG was tested and a non-linear fit with a prediction model of first-order kinetics was determined. Supplemented lambs had a higher (P < 0.036) final bodyweight and presented higher (P < 0.001) ADG than did non-supplemented lambs (31 kg and 120 g/lamb.day vs 26 kg and 55 g/lamb.day in supplemented and non-supplemented lambs, respectively). An asymptotic ADG value estimated by the model of 143.26 g/lamb.day BMR sorghum appeared to be an adequate summer grazing alternative for weaning lambs. SBM supplementation would improve the performance of animals however the level of supplementation would depend on the productive goal.
Rice straw, cassava by-products and tree legumes provide enough energy and nitrogen for liveweight maintenance of Brahman (Bos indicus) cows in Indonesia
Authors: Antari R. , Ningrum G. P. , Mayberry D. E. , Marsetyo  , Pamungkas D. , Quigley S. P. , Poppi D. P.
Published: July 2014

The aim of this experiment was to test the effectiveness of two diets in increasing liveweight (LW) and body condition score (BCS) of Brahman cows in Indonesia. Diets were based on rice straw, with additional energy and nitrogen (N) provided in the form of onggok (a cassava by-product) plus urea or a tree legume. Thirty mature, non-pregnant, non-lactating Brahman crossbred cows (288 kg LW, BCS 2/5) were allocated to one of two treatment groups. Cows were kept in individual pens for 21 weeks and offered one of two diets; (1) urea-supplemented rice straw ad libitum plus 10 g onggok DM/kg LW.day, or (2) untreated rice straw ad libitum plus 5 g onggok DM/kg LW.day and 5 g Gliricidia sepium DM/kg LW.day. The urea supplement provided no advantages over using locally available N sources such as gliricidia, with both supplement types meeting the rumen-degradable N requirements of the cows. Cows on both diets gained weight at a similar rate (0.19 kg/day) for the first 15 weeks of the experiment. Liveweight gain in Weeks 16–21 was only 0.04 kg/day, despite an increase in total feed intake and energy content of the diets compared with Weeks 1–15. Liveweight of cows stabilised during Weeks 16–21 at 304 kg, BCS 2.2. While our results demonstrate that Brahman cows can maintain LW on rice straw-based diets, they may not be able to maintain a BCS sufficient for good reproduction rates (i.e. BCS 3 or higher on 1–5 scale). Better quality diets containing higher levels of energy are required for cows to gain and maintain a suitable BCS.
Topical application of ALK5 inhibitor A-83-01 reduces burn wound contraction in rats by suppressing myofibroblast population
Authors: Sun Xiaoyan , Kim Yang-Hyun , Phan Trong Nhat , Yang Beom-Seok
Published: July 2014

Burn scar contracture that follows the healing of deep dermal burns causes severe deformation and functional impairment. However, its current therapeutic interventions are limited with unsatisfactory outcomes. When we treated deep second-degree burns in rat skin with activin-like kinase 5 (ALK5) inhibitor A-83-01, it reduced wound contraction and enhanced the area of re-epithelialization so that the overall time for wound closing was not altered. In addition, it reduced myofibroblast population in the dermis of burn scar with a diminished deposition of its biomarker proteins such as α-SMA and collagen. Treatment of rat dermal fibroblast with A-83-01 inhibited transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1)-dependent induction of α-SMA and collagen type I. Taken together, these results suggest that topical application of ALK5 inhibitor A-83-01 could be effective in preventing the contraction of burn wound without delaying the wound closure by virtue of its inhibitory activity against the TGF-β-induced increase of myofibroblast population.
Antioxidative properties of ascorbigen in using multiple antioxidant assays
Authors: Tai Akihiro , Fukunaga Kanako , Ohno Asako , Ito Hideyuki
Published: July 2014

The antioxidative properties of ascorbigen, one of the major indole-derived compounds of Brassica vegetables, were systematically evaluated using multiple assay systems with comparison to the well-known antioxidants ascorbic acid and Trolox. We first performed assays using model radicals, DPPH radical, galvinoxyl radical, and ABTS radical cation (ABTS•+). Ascorbigen showed stronger activity than that of ascorbic acid in the ABTS•+-scavenging assay but showed no activity in the DPPH radical- and galvinoxyl radical-scavenging assays. In the ABTS•+-scavenging assay, the indole moiety of ascorbigen contributed to scavenging of the radicals to produce indole-3-aldehyde as one of the final reaction products. The activity of ascorbigen was then evaluated by an oxygen radical absorbance capacity assay and an oxidative hemolysis inhibition assay using physiologically relevant peroxyl radicals, AAPH-derived radicals. Ascorbigen showed much stronger antioxidant activity than did ascorbic acid and Trolox. Therefore, antioxidant activity of ascorbigen might be more beneficial than has been thought for daily health care.
Megadalton-node assembly by binding of Skb1 to the membrane anchor Slf1
Authors: Deng Lin , Kabeche Ruth , Wang Ning , Wu Jian-Qiu , Moseley James B.
Published: July 2014

The plasma membrane contains both dynamic and static microdomains. Given the growing appreciation of cortical microdomains in cell biology, it is important to determine the organizational principles that underlie assembly of compartmentalized structures at the plasma membrane. The fission yeast plasma membrane is highly compartmentalized by distinct sets of cortical nodes, which control signaling for cell cycle progression and cytokinesis. The mitotic inhibitor Skb1 localizes to a set of cortical nodes that provide spatial control over signaling for entry into mitosis. However, it has been unclear whether these nodes contain other proteins and how they might be organized and tethered to the plasma membrane. Here we show that Skb1 forms nodes by interacting with the novel protein Slf1, which is a limiting factor for node formation in cells. Using quantitative fluorescence microscopy and in vitro assays, we demonstrate that Skb1-Slf1 nodes are megadalton structures that are anchored to the membrane by a lipid-binding region in the Slf1 C-terminus. We propose a mechanism for higher-order node formation by Skb1 and Slf1, with implications for macromolecular assemblies in diverse cell types.
Physicochemical quality properties of oriental melon pickle with the harvest period after pollination and soaking conditions
Authors: Kim Young-Jeon , Choi In-Hag , Lee Gee-Dong
Published: July 2014

This study was conducted to investigate the physicochemical quality properties of oriental melon pickles harvested after pollination (green and fully ripe period) and soaking (cured and ripened). After the increase of the pollination size of melon, at 21 days, melon had a strong yellowish color, but at 24 days, its tip was completely yellow. In addition, 21 days after 5 days soaking, the weights of the harvested melons were reduced. Since then, there were no remarkable changes in weight. At 27 and 30 days, the b values of the melons that were harvested showed no trace of influence by the number of days of soaking and ripening. The melons harvested after 24 and 27 days, and the oriental melon pickles, maintained a constant hardness and texture after five days of soaking. This result indicates that melons harvested between 15 and 27 days after pollination can be used for melon pickles. To produce high-quality melon pickles with a yellowish color and a chewy texture, melons harvested 27 days after pollination and then soaked and ripened in salt water for 15 days should be used.
Characteristics of whole buckwheat by wet grinding over time
Authors: Jo Yong-Jun , Seo Ji-Hyung , Jeong Yong-Jin
Published: July 2014

This study was conducted to that investigate the quality characteristics of wet-ground whole-grain buckwheat powder for the buckwheat husk. The particle size of buckwheat rice was 74.84 μm, which was approximately four to five times larger than wet-ground whole buckwheat by wet grinding. The particle size showed that there was no significant difference after 90 min on wet grinding. The total phenolics and total flavonoids contents of the whole buckwheat powder were higher than those of buckwheat rice, and they gradually increased wet grinding progressed. The rutin contents of the buckwheat increased after wet grinding and was 152.90 ppm at 90 min. There was no significant difference in the quercetin contents after wet grinding at different times. The mineral contents (Ca, K and Mg) of the whole buckwheat powder were greater than those of the buckwheat rice. Further, Zn and Mn were detected in the whole buckwheat powder. The total amino acid content of the whole buckwheat powder increased to 22.27 mg%, and the important glutamic acid increased from 14.58 to 30.45 mg%. These study results were based on 90 min wet-grinding time for whole-buckwheat-powder manufacture. Whole buckwheat powder manufactured through wet grinding can be used as an active ingredient of buckwheat husk.
Quality characteristics and antioxidant activity of drink prepared with black garlic and Oenanthe javanica DC.
Authors: Jeong Tae-Seong , Kim Jin-Hak , An Sin-Ae , Won Yong-Duk , Lee Shin-Ho
Published: July 2014

The quality and antioxidative characteristics of drinks prepared with different mixing ratios of black garlic and Oenanthe javanica DC., BD-1 (black garlic only), BD-2 (black garlic:Oenanthe javanica DC.=2:1), BD-3 (black garlic:Oenanthe javanica DC.=1:1), and BD-4 (black garlic:Oenanthe javanica DC.=1:2), were studied. The pH increased with the increasing concentration of Oenanthe javanica DC. extract in all the tested drinks, but the sugar contents decreased. The total polyphenol contents of the drinks were 28.48 μg/mL (BD-1), 41.91 μg/mL (BD-2), 42.36 μg/mL (BD-3), and 46.96 μg/mL (BD-4). The SOD-like activity was highest for BD-4 (18.60%), followed by BD-3 (15.53%), BD-2 (12.53%), and BD-1 (10.27%). The thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS) was highest for BD-4 (52.51%), followed by BD-3 (45.70%), BD-2 (39.44%), and BD-1 (28.72%). The ferrous ion chelating activity increased with the increasing concentration of Oenanthe javanica DC extract, and BD-4 showed the best activities among all the tested drinks. The water-soluble vitamin content (vitamins B1, B2, B6, and C) of BD-4 (1197.77 μg/mL) was higher than those of the other drinks (BD-1, 213.02 μg/mL; BD-2, 477.87 μg/mL; BD-3, 914.72 μg/mL), and the vitamin C (806.21 μg/mL) content of the water-soluble vitamins at BD-4 was higher than those of vitamins B1 (68.04 μg/mL), B2 (312.51 μg/mL), and B6 (11.01 μg/mL). BD-4 showed the best score in the sensory evaluations, such as in the evaluation of the color, flavor, taste, and overall acceptability.