bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
OPTICAL VIBRATION MODES IN SPHERICAL CORE-SHELL QUANTUM DOTS
Authors: XING Y. , LIANG X. X. , WANG Z. P.
Published: July 2013

Using a dielectric continuum approach, the optical vibration modes in a spherical core-shell quantum dots (QDs) imbedded in a host nonpolar material are studied. The dispersion relation and the corresponding electron–phonon interaction Hamiltonian are derived. The numerical calculations for the CdSe/ZnS system are performed. The results reveal that there are three branches frequencies of interface/surface optical phonon in the system. A detailed discussion of the combined effects of the spatial confinement and dielectric mismatch between the dot and the host medium is given.
A QUANTUM-MECHANICAL MODEL FOR AN LC CIRCUIT WITH ELASTIC CAPACITOR
Authors: NOGALES M. CALCINA
Published: July 2013

In this paper, we consider a quantum-mechanical LC circuit connected to a periodic source and with elastic capacitor. In the limit of negligible inductor energy, we present explicitly an exact solution for the wave function and spectrum of the spring-capacitor-source system. Considering the inductor energy as a perturbative term, the time-dependent probability amplitudes for the complete system are derived. We show that the mechanical degrees of freedom lead a suppression of the capacitor's charging/discharging process. Finally, we show the existence of a class of memristive component due to charge discreteness.
ACTIVE CONTOURS DRIVEN BY LOCAL GAUSSIAN DISTRIBUTION FITTING ENERGY BASED ON LOCAL ENTROPY
Authors: WANG HAI-JUN , LIU MING
Published: July 2013

This paper presents a scheme of improvement on the local Gaussian distribution fitting energy (LGDF) model in terms of robustness to initialization and noise. The LGDF energy is redefined as a weighted energy integral. The weights are defined based on local entropy deriving from a gray level distribution of local image, which enables the proposed model to be robust to the initialization. Experimental results prove that the proposed model is more robustness to noise than the original LGDF model, local binary fitting (LBF) model and local image fitting (LIF) model.
UNITRIANGULAR FACTORIZATION OF TWISTED CHEVALLEY GROUPS
Authors: SMOLENSKY ANDREI
Published: July 2013

Unitriangular factorization is a presentation of a linear group as a product of unipotent radicals of a Borel subgroup and its opposite. Whether this decomposition is known for Chevalley groups over rings of stable rank 1 and some Dedekind rings of arithmetic type, the case of twisted groups has been studied only over finite fields. In the present paper we give a much simpler proof for twisted groups over finite fields and the field of complex numbers.
ON CONWAY–GORDON TYPE THEOREMS FOR GRAPHS IN THE PETERSEN FAMILY
Authors: HASHIMOTO HIROKA , NIKKUNI RYO
Published: July 2013

For every spatial embedding of each graph in the Petersen family, it is known that the sum of the linking numbers over all of the constituent 2-component links is congruent to 1 modulo 2. In this paper, we give an integral lift of this formula in terms of the square of the linking number and the second coefficient of the Conway polynomial.
A NEW SIMPLE CORRELATION FOR CALCULATING SOLUBILITY OF DRUGS IN SUPERCRITICAL CARBON DIOXIDE
Authors: HEZAVE ALI ZEINOLABEDINI , LASHKARBOLOOKI MOSTAFA
Published: July 2013

During the past 20 years, supercritical fluid (SCF) based technologies have been gaining an increasing attention through the academic and industrial communities due to its advantages. One of the most important parameter for any supercritical-based technologies is the knowledge of the solute solubility at different pressures and temperatures. But, due to several concerns e.g. time and expense, measuring the solubility of all compounds in wide ranges of temperature and pressure is not possible. Respect to this, a new empirical correlation with four fitting parameters has been proposed to correlate the solubility of pharmaceuticals in different temperatures and pressures. The obtained results compared with four widely used density based correlations including Mendez-Santiago and Teja (MST), Bartle et al., Chrastil, Kumar and Johnston (KJ) revealed rather good capability of the proposed simple correlation for predicting the solubility of solutes in supercritical carbon dioxide (SC- CO 2). At last, the obtained results compared with the results of three Equations of State (EoS's) with three different mixing rules.
INVERSE ROMAN DOMINATION IN GRAPHS
Authors: KUMAR M. KAMAL , REDDY L. SUDERSHAN
Published: July 2013

Motivated by the article in Scientific American [7], Michael A Henning and Stephen T Hedetniemi explored the strategy of defending the Roman Empire. Cockayne defined Roman dominating function (RDF) on a Graph G = (V, E) to be a function f : V → {0, 1, 2} satisfying the condition that every vertex u for which f(u) = 0 is adjacent to at least one vertex v for which f(v) = 2. For a real valued function f : V → R the weight of f is w(f) = ∑v∈V f(v). The Roman domination number (RDN) denoted by γR(G) is the minimum weight among all RDF in G. If V – D contains a roman dominating function f1 : V → {0, 1, 2}. "D" is the set of vertices v for which f(v) > 0. Then f1 is called Inverse Roman Dominating function (IRDF) on a graph G w.r.t. f. The inverse roman domination number (IRDN) denoted by [Formula: see text] is the minimum weight among all IRDF in G. In this paper we find few results of IRDN.
The influence of the provenance of arenite on its diagenesis in the Cameros Rift Basin (Spain)
Authors: Arribas J. , González-Acebrón L. , Omodeo-Salé S. , Mas R.
Published: July 2013

The intraplate Cameros Rift Basin in northern Spain, which has sediments some 6500 m thick, developed between the Late Jurassic and Early Albian. Its facies and their distribution in the sedimentary record suggest the basin may contain hydrocarbon systems. The arenite composition of the basin reveals two main petrofacies: (1) a quartzolithic petrofacies, the provenance of which is related to recycling processes that took place in the pre-rift sedimentary cover; and (2) a quartzofeldspathic petrofacies mainly related to the erosion of a plutonic and metamorphic source of arenite. The succession of these petrofacies reflects two main cycles representing the progressive erosion of their sources, one of 10 Ma, the other of 30 Ma. Such succession is typical of a non-volcanic rift basin. The quartzolithic petrofacies shows early carbonate cements that inhibited compaction and later quartz, feldspar and clay mineral diagenetic phases. The quartzofeldspathic petrofacies has a rigid framework that maintained the original pores of the arenite during burial diagenesis. Quartz and K-feldspar overgrowths are common, with secondary porosity occurring as a product of feldspar dissolution. The quartzofeldspathic petrofacies has a greater potential to act as a hydrocarbon reservoir. This study corroborates the close relationship between the provenance of arenite and its reservoir potential in continental rift basins.
Rapid Cl−/HCO3− exchange kinetics of AE1 in HEK293 cells and hereditary stomatocytosis red blood cells
Authors: Frumence Etienne , Genetet Sandrine , Ripoche Pierre , Iolascon Achille , Andolfo Immacolata , Le Van Kim Caroline , Colin Yves , Mouro-Chanteloup Isabelle , Lopez Claude
Published: July 2013

Anion exchanger 1 (AE1) or band 3 is a membrane protein responsible for the rapid exchange of chloride for bicarbonate across the red blood cell membrane. Nine mutations leading to single amino-acid substitutions in the transmembrane domain of AE1 are associated with dominant hereditary stomatocytosis, monovalent cation leaks, and reduced anion exchange activity. We set up a stopped-flow spectrofluorometry assay coupled with flow cytometry to investigate the anion transport and membrane expression characteristics of wild-type recombinant AE1 in HEK293 cells, using an inducible expression system. Likewise, study of three stomatocytosis-associated mutations (R730C, E758K, and G796R), allowed the validation of our method. Measurement of the rapid and specific chloride/bicarbonate exchange by surface expressed AE1 showed that E758K mutant was fully active compared with wild-type (WT) AE1, whereas R730C and G796R mutants were inactive, reinforcing previously reported data on other experimental models. Stopped-flow analysis of AE1 transport activity in red blood cell ghost preparations revealed a 50% reduction of G796R compared with WT AE1 corresponding to a loss of function of the G796R mutated protein, in accordance with the heterozygous status of the AE1 variant patients. In conclusion, stopped-flow led to measurement of rapid transport kinetics using the natural substrate for AE1 and, conjugated with flow cytometry, allowed a reliable correlation of chloride/bicarbonate exchange to surface expression of AE1, both in recombinant cells and ghosts and therefore a fine comparison of function between different stomatocytosis samples. This technical approach thus provides significant improvements in anion exchange analysis in red blood cells.
Ventilator-induced diaphragm dysfunction: cause and effect
Authors: Powers Scott K. , Wiggs Michael P. , Sollanek Kurt J. , Smuder Ashley J.
Published: July 2013

Mechanical ventilation (MV) is used clinically to maintain gas exchange in patients that require assistance in maintaining adequate alveolar ventilation. Common indications for MV include respiratory failure, heart failure, drug overdose, and surgery. Although MV can be a life-saving intervention for patients suffering from respiratory failure, prolonged MV can promote diaphragmatic atrophy and contractile dysfunction, which is referred to as ventilator-induced diaphragm dysfunction (VIDD). This is significant because VIDD is thought to contribute to problems in weaning patients from the ventilator. Extended time on the ventilator increases health care costs and greatly increases patient morbidity and mortality. Research reveals that only 18–24 h of MV is sufficient to develop VIDD in both laboratory animals and humans. Studies using animal models reveal that MV-induced diaphragmatic atrophy occurs due to increased diaphragmatic protein breakdown and decreased protein synthesis. Recent investigations have identified calpain, caspase-3, autophagy, and the ubiquitin-proteasome system as key proteases that participate in MV-induced diaphragmatic proteolysis. The challenge for the future is to define the MV-induced signaling pathways that promote the loss of diaphragm protein and depress diaphragm contractility. Indeed, forthcoming studies that delineate the signaling mechanisms responsible for VIDD will provide the knowledge necessary for the development of a pharmacological approach that can prevent VIDD and reduce the incidence of weaning problems.
Central dysmyelination reduces the temporal fidelity of synaptic transmission and the reliability of postsynaptic firing during high-frequency stimulation
Authors: Kim Sei Eun , Turkington Karl , Kushmerick Christopher , Kim Jun Hee
Published: July 2013

Auditory brain stem circuits rely on fast, precise, and reliable neurotransmission to process auditory information. To determine the fundamental role of myelination in auditory brain stem function, we examined the evoked auditory brain stem response (ABR) from the Long Evans shaker ( LES) rat, which lacks myelin due to a genetic deletion of myelin basic protein. In control rats, the ABR evoked by a click consisted of five well-defined waves (denoted waves I–V). In LES rats, waves I, IV, and V were present, but waves II and III were undetectable, indicating disrupted function in the earliest stages of central nervous system auditory processing. In addition, the developmental shortening of the interval between waves I and IV that normally occurs in control rats was arrested and resulted in a significant increase in the central conduction time in LES rats. In brain stem slices, action potential transmission between the calyx of Held terminals and the medial nucleus of the trapezoid body (MNTB) neurons was delayed and less reliable in LES rats, although the resting potential, threshold, input resistance, and length of the axon initial segment of the postsynaptic MNTB neurons were normal. The amplitude of glutamatergic excitatory postsynaptic currents (EPSCs) and the degree of synaptic depression during high-frequency stimulation were not different between LES rats and controls, but LES rats exhibited a marked slow component to the EPSC decay and a much higher rate of presynaptic failures. Together, these results indicate that loss of myelin disrupts brain stem auditory processing, increasing central conduction time and reducing the reliability of neurotransmission.
Dynamic modulation of spike timing-dependent calcium influx during corticostriatal upstates
Authors: Evans R. C. , Maniar Y. M. , Blackwell K. T.
Published: July 2013

The striatum of the basal ganglia demonstrates distinctive upstate and downstate membrane potential oscillations during slow-wave sleep and under anesthetic. The upstates generate calcium transients in the dendrites, and the amplitude of these calcium transients depends strongly on the timing of the action potential (AP) within the upstate. Calcium is essential for synaptic plasticity in the striatum, and these large calcium transients during the upstates may control which synapses undergo plastic changes. To investigate the mechanisms that underlie the relationship between calcium and AP timing, we have developed a realistic biophysical model of a medium spiny neuron (MSN). We have implemented sophisticated calcium dynamics including calcium diffusion, buffering, and pump extrusion, which accurately replicate published data. Using this model, we found that either the slow inactivation of dendritic sodium channels (NaSI) or the calcium inactivation of voltage-gated calcium channels (CDI) can cause high calcium corresponding to early APs and lower calcium corresponding to later APs. We found that only CDI can account for the experimental observation that sensitivity to AP timing is dependent on NMDA receptors. Additional simulations demonstrated a mechanism by which MSNs can dynamically modulate their sensitivity to AP timing and show that sensitivity to specifically timed pre- and postsynaptic pairings (as in spike timing-dependent plasticity protocols) is altered by the timing of the pairing within the upstate. These findings have implications for synaptic plasticity in vivo during sleep when the upstate-downstate pattern is prominent in the striatum.
Neuronal correlates of tactile speed in primary somatosensory cortex
Authors: Dépeault Alexandra , Meftah El-Mehdi , Chapman C. Elaine
Published: July 2013

Moving stimuli activate all of the mechanoreceptive afferents involved in discriminative touch, but their signals covary with several parameters, including texture. Despite this, the brain extracts precise information about tactile speed, and humans can scale the tangential speed of moving surfaces as long as they have some surface texture. Speed estimates, however, vary with texture: lower estimates for rougher surfaces (increased spatial period, SP). We hypothesized that the discharge of cortical neurons playing a role in scaling tactile speed should covary with speed and SP in the same manner. Single-cell recordings ( n = 119) were made in the hand region of primary somatosensory cortex (S1) of awake monkeys while raised-dot surfaces (longitudinal SPs, 2–8 mm; periodic or nonperiodic) were displaced under their fingertips at speeds of 40–105 mm/s. Speed sensitivity was widely distributed (area 3b, 13/25; area 1, 32/51; area 2, 31/43) and almost invariably combined with texture sensitivity (82% of cells). A subset of cells (27/64 fully tested speed-sensitive cells) showed a graded increase in discharge with increasing speed for testing with both sets of surfaces (periodic, nonperiodic), consistent with a role in tactile speed scaling. These cells were almost entirely confined to caudal S1 (areas 1 and 2). None of the speed-sensitive cells, however, showed a pattern of decreased discharge with increased SP, as found for subjective speed estimates in humans. Thus further processing of tactile motion signals, presumably in higher-order areas, is required to explain human tactile speed scaling.
Determinants of Fast Food Consumption among Iranian High School Students Based on Planned Behavior Theory
Authors: Sharifirad Gholamreza , Yarmohammadi Parastoo , Azadbakht Leila , Morowatisharifabad Mohammad Ali , Hassanzadeh Akbar
Published: July 2013

Objective. This study was conducted to identify some factors (beliefs and norms) which are related to fast food consumption among high school students in Isfahan, Iran. We used the framework of the theory planned behavior (TPB) to predict this behavior.Subjects & Methods. Cross-sectional data were available from high school students who were recruited by cluster randomized sampling. All of the students completed a questionnaire assessing variables of standard TPB model including attitude, subjective norms, perceived behavior control (PBC), and the additional variables past behavior, actual behavior control (ABC).Results. The TPB variables explained 25.7% of the variance in intentions with positive attitude as the strongest (, ) and subjective norms as the weakest (, ) determinant. Concurrently, intentions accounted for 6% of the variance for fast food consumption. Past behavior and ABC accounted for an additional amount of 20.4% of the variance in fast food consumption.Conclusion. Overall, the present study suggests that the TPB model is useful in predicting related beliefs and norms to the fast food consumption among adolescents. Subjective norms in TPB model and past behavior in TPB model with additional variables (past behavior and actual behavior control) were the most powerful predictors of fast food consumption. Therefore, TPB model may be a useful framework for planning intervention programs to reduce fast food consumption by students.
Production and Characterization of Keratinolytic Protease from New Wool-DegradingBacillusSpecies Isolated from Egyptian Ecosystem
Authors: Hassan Mohamed A. , Haroun Bakry M. , Amara Amro A. , Serour Ehab A.
Published: July 2013

Novel keratin-degrading bacteria were isolated from sand soil samples collected from Minia Governorate, Egypt. In this study, the isolates were identified asBacillus amyloliquefaciensMA20 andBacillus subtilisMA21 based on morphological and biochemical characteristics as well as 16S rRNA gene sequencing.B. amyloliquefaciensMA20 andB. subtilisMA21 produced alkaline keratinolytic serine protease when cultivated in mineral medium containing 1% of wool straight off sheep as sole carbon and nitrogen source. The two strains were observed to degrade wool completely to powder at pH 7 and 37°C within 5 days. Under these conditions the maximum activity of proteases produced byB. amyloliquefaciensMA20 andB. subtilisMA21 was 922 and 814 U/ml, respectively. The proteases exhibited optimum temperature and pH at 60°C and 9, respectively. However, the keratinolytic proteases were stable in broad range of temperature and pH values towards casein Hammerstein. Furthermore the protease inhibitor studies indicated that the produced proteases belong to serine protease because of their sensitivity to PMSF while they were inhibited partially in presence of EDTA. The two proteases are stable in most of the used organic solvents and enhanced by metals suggesting their potential use in biotechnological applications such as wool industry.
Application of Multipoint DC Voltage Control in VSC-MTDC System
Authors: Xi Yang , Qian Ai , Jiantao Huang , Yiran An
Published: July 2013

The voltage-source-converter- (VSC-) based multiterminal VSC-HVDC power transmission system (VSC-MTDC) is an ideal approach to connect wind farm with power grid. Analyzing the characteristics of doubly fed induction generators as well as the basic principle and the control strategy of VSC-MTDC, a multiterminal DC voltage control strategy suitable for wind farm connected with VSC-MTDC is proposed. By use of PSCAD/EMTDC, the proposed control strategy is simulated, and simulation results show that using the proposed control strategy the conversion between constant power control mode and constant DC voltage control mode can be automatically implemented; thus the DC voltage stability control and reliable power output of wind farm can be ensured after the fault-caused outage of converter station controlled by constant DC voltage and under other faults. The simulation result shows that the model can fulfill multiterminal power transmission and fast response control.
Interferon Inducible IFI16 Expression in p16 Positive Squamous Cell Carcinoma of the Oropharynx
Authors: Yamauchi Moriyasu , Nakano Takafumi , Nakashima Torahiko , Yasumatsu Ryuji , Hashimoto Kazuki , Toh Satoshi , Shiratsuchi Hideki , Oda Yoshinao , Komune Shizuo
Published: July 2013

Human-papillomavirus- (HPV-) positive oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinomas (OPSCC) are reported to be more responsive to treatment and to be related to a favorable prognosis compared with non-HPV carcinomas. However, the molecular basis of the responsiveness is unclear. Interferon inducible IFI16, which is implicated in the control of cell growth, apoptosis, angiogenesis, and immunomodulation in various types of cancers, is reported to be frequently expressed in the HPV-positive head and neck SCC and to correlate with a better prognosis. In this study, we hypothesized that HPV related OPSCC expresses IFI16 resulting in favorable prognosis. To clarify the relationship between the prognosis of HPV related OPSCC patients and IFI16 status, we examined immunohistologically the pretreatment specimens of OPSCC for the expression of p16 as a surrogate marker of HPV infection and IFI16. We could not show that the expression of IFI16 is associated with that of p16. There was no significant difference in the survival rate between IFI16 positive and negative groups. Patients with p16 negative tumor exhibited worse survival rate regardless of IFI16 status. In this limited case series, we could not conclude that IFI16 expression is altered in p16 positive OPSCC and that it would be a new predictive marker or a useful therapeutic tool.
Biosynthesis, Antimicrobial and Cytotoxic Effect of Silver Nanoparticles Using a NovelNocardiopsissp. MBRC-1
Authors: Manivasagan Panchanathan , Venkatesan Jayachandran , Senthilkumar Kalimuthu , Sivakumar Kannan , Kim Se-Kwon
Published: July 2013

The biosynthesis of nanoparticles has been proposed as a cost effective environmental friendly alternative to chemical and physical methods. Microbial synthesis of nanoparticles is under exploration due to wide biomedical applications, research interest in nanotechnology and microbial biotechnology. In the present study, an ecofriendly process for the synthesis of nanoparticles using a novelNocardiopsissp. MBRC-1 has been attempted. We used culture supernatant ofNocardiopsissp. MBRC-1 for the simple and cost effective green synthesis of silver nanoparticles. The reduction of silver ions occurred when silver nitrate solution was treated with theNocardiopsissp. MBRC-1 culture supernatant at room temperature. The nanoparticles were characterized by UV-visible, TEM, FE-SEM, EDX, FTIR, and XRD spectroscopy. The nanoparticles exhibited an absorption peak around 420 nm, a characteristic surface plasmon resonance band of silver nanoparticles. They were spherical in shape with an average particle size of45±0.15 nm. The EDX analysis showed the presence of elemental silver signal in the synthesized nanoparticles. The FTIR analysis revealed that the protein component in the form of enzyme nitrate reductase produced by the isolate in the culture supernatant may be responsible for reduction and as capping agents. The XRD spectrum showed the characteristic Bragg peaks of 1 2 3, 2 0 4, 0 4 3, 1 4 4, and 3 1 1 facets of the face centered cubic silver nanoparticles and confirms that these nanoparticles are crystalline in nature. The prepared silver nanoparticles exhibited strong antimicrobial activity against bacteria and fungi. Cytotoxicity of biosynthesized AgNPs against in vitro human cervical cancer cell line (HeLa) showed a dose-response activity. IC50value was found to be 200 μg/mL of AgNPs against HeLa cancer cells. Further studies are needed to elucidate the toxicity and the mechanism involved with antimicrobial and anticancer activity of the synthesized AgNPs as nanomedicine.
Behaviour of NiTi SMA Helical Springs under Different Temperatures and Deflections
Authors: Santhanam R. , Krishna Y. , Sivakumar M. S.
Published: July 2013

Shape memory alloys (SMAs) are one of the most widely used smart materials in many applications because of their shape memory effect property. In this work, the behaviour of NiTi SMA helical spring was evaluated through isothermal force-displacement experiment (IFDE) and shape recovery force experiment (SRFE). The transformation temperatures of SMA spring were determined by differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) test. In situ heating of SMA spring by direct electric current was used instead of conventional furnace heating. The continuous measurement of temperature of SMA spring during heating and cooling was ensured with attaching the thermocouple by heat shrinkable sleeve. From IFDE, the force-deflection behaviour under different constant temperatures and from SRFE and the force-temperature behaviour under different constant deflections are obtained. The results of IFDE show that the force increases and the residual displacement decreases with an increase in the temperature, and the stiffness of the spring at austenite state is greater than that at martensitic state. The results of SRFE show that the shape recovery force increases more or less linearly with an increase in the initial deflection for the same temperature range. But the shape recovery forces are not similar during heating and cooling stages. This paper presents the experimental setup, experimental procedures, and the observed behaviour of SMA helical springs under different temperatures and deflections.
Ischemic Gangrene of the Glans following Penile Prosthesis Implantation
Authors: García Gómez Borja , Romero Otero Javier , Díez Sicilia Laura , Jiménez Alcaide Estibaliz , García-Cruz Eduardo , Rodríguez Antolín Alfredo
Published: July 2013

The development of ischemic gangrene of the penis following implantation of prosthesis is unusual, and very few cases are available in the literature. As a result, no established treatment protocol is available. We report our experience within a case of gangrene of the glans following implantation of a three-component prosthesis. We present a 53-year-old male, smoker with diabetes and hypercholesterolemia, who underwent surgery for the insertion of a penile prosthesis with 3 components to correct his erectile dysfunction and severe Peyronie's disease. The procedure was carried out without incidents. During the postoperative period, the patient began to complain from penile and perineal pain. He developed avascular necrosis of the glans. The necrosed area was excised. Four weeks later, he developed fever and perineal pain arriving to the emergency room with the prosthesis extruding through the glans. He had emergency surgery to remove the prosthesis plus surgical lavage and was prescribed broad-spectrum antibiotic therapy. Four weeks later, the penis was completely revascularized and reepithelialized. Ischemic gangrene following penile prosthesis implantation takes place in patients with poor peripheral vascularisation. Diabetes mellitus has been the common denominator to all of the reported cases.
Numerical Study of the Effects of Wave-Induced Forcing on Dynamics in Ocean Mixed Layer
Authors: Deng Zengan , Xie Lian , Yu Ting , Shi Suixiang , Jin Jiye , Wu Kejian
Published: July 2013

Numerical experiments using hybrid coordinate ocean model (HYCOM) are designed to quantify the effects of wind wave-induced Coriolis-Stokes forcing (CSF) on mixed layer (ML) dynamics in a global context. CSF calculated by the wave parameters simulated by using the WaveWatch III (WW3) model is introduced as a new driving force for HYCOM. The results show that noticeable influence on ocean circulation in ML can be caused by CSF. Over most of the global oceans the direction of Stokes transport is different from that of the change in current transport caused by CSF. This is not unusual because CSF is normal to Stokes drift. However, the CSF-caused change in current transport and the wave-induced Stokes transport have the same magnitude. The seasonal variabilities of mixed layer temperature (MLT) and mixed layer depth (MLD) caused by CSF are analyzed, and the possible relationship between them is also given.
Estimation of Genetic and Phenotypic Parameters for Production Traits and Somatic Cell Count for Jersey Dairy Cattle in Zimbabwe
Authors: Missanjo Edward , Imbayarwo-Chikosi Venancio , Halimani Tinyiko
Published: July 2013

Genetic and phenotypic parameters for production traits and somatic cell count (SCC) for Jersey dairy cattle in Zimbabwe were estimated. A total of 10986 lactation records were obtained from Zimbabwe Livestock Identification Trust, with cows calving in the period from 1996 to 2008. An ASReml program fitting an animal model was used for the analyses. Heritability estimates for milk yield, fat yield, protein yield, fat percentage, protein percentage, and Log10SCC were 0.30, 0.32, 0.33, 0.42, 0.44, and 0.08, respectively. The corresponding repeatability estimates were 0.39, 0.38, 0.39, 0.49, 0.51, and 0.16, respectively. The genetic and phenotypic correlations between different production traits ranged from −0.86 to 0.95 and from −0.88 to 0.98, respectively. The genetic and phenotypic correlations between production traits and Log10SCC were weak almost nonsignificantly differentl from zero. The results imply that milk traits for Jersey dairy cattle in Zimbabwe are more heritable. Therefore, these traits may be preferred by breeders as selection criteria for development of effective genetic improvement programme.
Late Onset Anaphylaxis in a Hydatid Cyst Case Presenting with Chronic Urticaria
Authors: Yilmaz Insu , Aydin Omur , Okoh Alexis , Misirligil Zeynep
Published: July 2013

Hydatid cyst is still endemic in various regions of the world. It is the most frequent cause of liver cysts worldwide. Urticaria is sometimes the first manifestation of the disease. However anaphylactic reaction and urticaria have been very rarely reported in the literature. Traditionally, surgery has been the only accepted mode of treatment; however, percutaneous treatment has recently been proposed as an alternative. Cases of anaphylaxis have been reported after percutaneous drainage of hydatid cyst. However, anaphylaxis usually develops within a few hours. Herein, we describe the case of a patient who presented with hydatid cyst causing chronic urticaria and late anaphylactic reaction following percutaneous aspiration of a liver hydatid cyst. We emphasize that physicians should be aware of hydatid cyst as a possible etiology for seemingly chronic spontaneous urticaria, especially in endemic regions. Patients should be kept under observation for at least one day due to the risk of early and late anaphylaxis after percutaneous aspiration treatment.
Biological Activities of Phosphocitrate: A Potential Meniscal Protective Agent
Authors: Sun Yubo , Roberts Andrea , Mauerhan David R. , Sun Andrew R. , Norton H. James , Hanley Edward N.
Published: July 2013

Phosphocitrate (PC) inhibited meniscal calcification and the development of calcium crystal-associated osteoarthritis (OA) in Hartley guinea pigs. However, the mechanisms remain elusive. This study sought to examine the biological activities of PC in the absence of calcium crystals and test the hypothesis that PC is potentially a meniscal protective agent. We found that PC downregulated the expression of many genes classified in cell proliferation, ossification, prostaglandin metabolic process, and wound healing, including bloom syndrome RecQ helicase-like, cell division cycle 7 homolog, cell division cycle 25 homolog C, ankylosis progressive homolog, prostaglandin-endoperoxide synthases-1/cyclooxygenase-1, and plasminogen activator urokinase receptor. In contrast, PC stimulated the expression of many genes classified in fibroblast growth factor receptor signaling pathway, collagen fibril organization, and extracellular structure organization, including fibroblast growth factor 7, collagen type I, alpha 1, and collagen type XI, alpha 1. Consistent with its effect on the expression of genes classified in cell proliferation, collagen fibril organization, and ossification, PC inhibited the proliferation of OA meniscal cells and meniscal cell-mediated calcification while stimulating the production of collagens. These findings indicate that PC is potentially a meniscal-protective agent and a disease-modifying drug for arthritis associated with severe meniscal degeneration.
Uncommon Presentation of a Benign Nasopharyngeal Mass in an Adolescent: Comprehensive Review of Pediatric Nasopharyngeal Masses
Authors: Duarte Victor M. , Liu Yuan F. , Shapiro Nina L.
Published: July 2013

Nasopharyngeal masses in the pediatric population are quite rare, and the majority of these are benign. In adolescent boys, there should be a high index of suspicion for juvenile nasopharyngeal angiofibromas. When malignant, the most common lesions encountered are rhabdomyosarcomas, carcinomas, and lymphomas. We report a single case from a tertiary care institution of an adolescent male with an unusual presentation of a benign nasopharyngeal mass and provide a comprehensive review of pediatric nasopharyngeal masses. Whenever possible, radiographic imaging should be obtained, in addition to biopsy, to assist in the diagnosis of pediatric nasopharyngeal masses.
Assessment of Risk Factor for Cardiovascular Disease Using Heart Rate Variability in Postmenopausal Women: A Comparative Study between Urban and Rural Indian Women
Authors: Narayanaswamy Nikhil , Moodithaya Shailaja , Halahalli Harsha , Mirajkar Amrit M.
Published: July 2013

Cardiovascular diseases are important causes of morbidity and mortality in postmenopausal women. A major determinant of cardiovascular health is the status of autonomic nervous system and assessment of Heart Rate Variability (HRV). Heart Rate Variability is a noninvasive and sensitive technique to evaluate cardiovascular autonomic control. Reduced HRV is an independent risk factor for the development of heart disease. This study evaluated the risk factors for cardiovascular diseases using HRV, between urban and rural Indian postmenopausal women ranging in age from 40 to 75 years. Findings of the analysis of HRV have showed that the total power which reflects overall modulation of cardiac autonomic activity (759±100  versus 444±65), the absolute power of high frequency which is surrogate of cardiovagal activity (247±41  versus 163±45), and low frequency that reflects cardiac sympathetic activity (205±26  versus 127±18) were significantly higher in urban women than that of their rural counterparts. Further, among the anthropometric measures, waist circumference was significantly correlated with indices of HRV. The study concludes that rural Indian women are associated with an additional risk beyond that of ageing and postmenopausal status when compared to the urban women. The higher central obesity could be the contributing factor for developing higher risk for cardiovascular disease among the rural women.
Early Complete Molecular Response to First-Line Nilotinib in Two Patients with Chronic Myeloid Leukemia Carrying the p230 Transcript
Authors: Greco Marianna , Caocci Giovanni , La Nasa Giorgio
Published: July 2013

Chronic myeloid leukemia (CML) with the rare fusion gene e19a2, encoding a p230 protein, has been described in patients with typical or rather aggressive clinical course. Although tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs) induce a substantial cytogenetic and molecular response in all phases of CML, a minority of p230 positive patients have been treated with TKIs. We report two cases of CML patients carrying the p230 transcript, who achieved fast and deep complete molecular response (CMR) after frontline treatment with nilotinib. Our results suggest the use of nilotinib as frontline agent for the treatment of this CML variant.
Effect of Experimental Infection withHaemonchus contortuson Parasitological and Local Cellular Responses in Resistant and Susceptible Young Creole Goats
Authors: Bambou J. C. , Larcher T. , Ceï W. , Dumoulin P. J. , Mandonnet N.
Published: July 2013

This study was carried out to evaluate the relationships of cellular changes in the abomasal mucosa and parasitological parameters, by comparing resistant and susceptible young Creole goats (kids) after experimental infection withHaemonchus contortus. The kids were infected over 2 periods (challenges 1 and 2) of 7 and 6 weeks, respectively. Fecal egg count (FEC), blood eosinophilia, packed cell volume (PCV), and body weight were weekly monitored. At the end of both challenges a subgroup of kids was slaughtered for nematode burden measurements and analysis of inflammatory cell infiltration in the abomasal mucosa. The average daily gain was higher in resistant kids after both challenges. Blood eosinophilia and FEC were higher in susceptible kids after both challenges. The number of immature worms and the means of female length were lower after challenge 2 whatever the genetic status. No differences were observed in the eosinophil and mononuclear cell infiltration between challenges 1 and 2 and resistant and susceptible kids. Globule leukocyte infiltration was found higher after the challenge 1 in resistant kids. This effect of the genetic status on globule leukocytes counts but not on the other inflammatory cell highlights the need for further study on the functional activity of these cell populations.
Robust Cell Size Checkpoint from Spatiotemporal Positive Feedback Loop in Fission Yeast
Authors: Yan Jie , Ni Xin , Yang Ling
Published: July 2013

Cells must maintain appropriate cell size during proliferation. Size control may be regulated by a size checkpoint that couples cell size to cell division. Biological experimental data suggests that the cell size is coupled to the cell cycle in two ways: the rates of protein synthesis and the cell polarity protein kinase Pom1 provide spatial information that is used to regulate mitosis inhibitor Wee1. Here a mathematical model involving these spatiotemporal regulations was developed and used to explore the mechanisms underlying the size checkpoint in fission yeast. Bifurcation analysis shows that when the spatiotemporal regulation is coupled to the positive feedback loops (active Cdc2 promotes its activator, Cdc25, and suppress its inhibitor, Wee1), the mitosis-promoting factor (MPF) exhibits a bistable steady-state relationship with the cell size. The switch-like response from the positive feedback loops naturally generates the cell size checkpoint. Further analysis indicated that the spatial regulation provided by Pom1 enhances the robustness of the size checkpoint in fission yeast. This was consistent with experimental data.
A Comparative Study of Recycling of Used Engine Oil Using Extraction by Composite Solvent, Single Solvent, and Acid Treatment Methods
Authors: Abro Rashid , Chen Xiaochun , Harijan Khanji , Dhakan Zulifqar A. , Ammar Muhammad
Published: July 2013

Engine oils are made from crude oil and its derivatives by mixing of certain other chemicals (additives) for improving their certain properties. Lubricating oil is used to lubricate moving parts of engine, reducing friction, protecting against wear, and removing contaminants from the engine, act as a cleaning agent, and act as an anticorrosion and cooling agent. This research effort focuses on comparative study of re-refined engine oils by extraction of composite solvent, single solvent, and acid treatment methods. Composite solvent was made up of butanol-propane and butanone; propane was used as single solvent. Different properties of refined oil and waste oil were analyzed, such as cloud and pour point, flash point, specific gravity, ash content, viscosity, moisture ratio and acid value. On the basis of experimental work, it was found that the iron contamination decreased from 50 ppm to 13 ppm for composite solvent; for propane solvent it decreased up to 30 ppm and 15 ppm for acid treatment. Results from the flash point, pour point, viscosity, specific gravity, and ash percentage were improved at different degrees, but the best results were seen by using the composite solvent with having drawback of expensiveness.
An F876L Mutation in Androgen Receptor Confers Genetic and Phenotypic Resistance to MDV3100 (Enzalutamide)
Authors: Korpal Manav , Korn Joshua M. , Gao Xueliang , Rakiec Daniel P. , Ruddy David A. , Doshi Shivang , Yuan Jing , Kovats Steve G. , Kim Sunkyu , Cooke Vesselina G. , Monahan John E. , Stegmeier Frank , Roberts Thomas M. , Sellers William R. , Zhou Wenlai , Zhu Ping
Published: July 2013

Castration-resistant prostate cancer (CRPC) is the most aggressive, incurable form of prostate cancer. MDV3100 (enzalutamide), an antagonist of the androgen receptor (AR), was approved for clinical use in men with metastatic CRPC. Although this compound showed clinical efficacy, many initial responders later developed resistance. To uncover relevant resistant mechanisms, we developed a model of spontaneous resistance to MDV3100 in LNCaP prostate cancer cells. Detailed characterization revealed that emergence of an F876L mutation in AR correlated with blunted AR response to MDV3100 and sustained proliferation during treatment. Functional studies confirmed that ARF876L confers an antagonist-to-agonist switch that drives phenotypic resistance. Finally, treatment with distinct antiandrogens or cyclin-dependent kinase (CDK)4/6 inhibitors effectively antagonized ARF876L function. Together, these findings suggest that emergence of F876L may (i) serve as a novel biomarker for prediction of drug sensitivity, (ii) predict a “withdrawal” response to MDV3100, and (iii) be suitably targeted with other antiandrogens or CDK4/6 inhibitors.

Significance: We uncovered an F876L agonist-switch mutation in AR that confers genetic and phenotypic resistance to the antiandrogen drug MDV3100. On the basis of this finding, we propose new therapeutic strategies to treat patients with prostate cancer presenting with this AR mutation. Cancer Discov; 3(9); 1030–43. ©2013 AACR.

See related commentary by Nelson and Yegnasubramanian, p. 971

This article is highlighted in the In This Issue feature, p. 953
ERK Pathway Inhibitors: How Low Should We Go?
Authors: Nissan Moriah H. , Rosen Neal , Solit David B.
Published: July 2013

Summary: Resistance to RAF inhibitors is generally accompanied by reactivation of extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK) signaling. SCH772984, a selective, ATP-competitive inhibitor of ERK1 and ERK2, is effective in BRAF-mutant models in which resistance is the result of ERK reactivation. SCH772984 may also have a role in the treatment of tumors in which ERK is dysregulated by mutant RAS, NF1, or activated receptor tyrosine kinases, settings in which current RAF inhibitors are ineffective. Cancer Discov; 3(7); 719–21. ©2013 AACR.

See related article by Morris et al., p. 742
Scanning for Clues to Better Use Selective Estrogen Receptor Modulators
Authors: Machiela Mitchell J. , Chanock Stephen J.
Published: July 2013

Summary: Ingle and colleagues present timely findings identifying genetic variants associated with response to selective estrogen receptor modulator therapy that when substantiated in follow-up may represent an important step toward understanding estrogen-dependent induction of BRCA1 expression and advancing individualized preventive medicine in women at high risk for developing breast cancer. Cancer Discov; 3(7); 728–9. ©2013 AACR.

See related article by Ingle et al., p. 812
The Prognostic Impact of Absolute Lymphocyte and Monocyte Counts at Diagnosis of Diffuse Large B-Cell Lymphoma in the Rituximab Era
Authors: Aoki Kazunari , Tabata Sumie , Yonetani Noboru , Matsushita Akiko , Ishikawa Takayuki
Published: July 2013

Background: A recent report showed that the combination of the absolute lymphocyte count (ALC) and the absolute monocyte count (AMC) at diagnosis gave a prognostic score in diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL). However, this model requires validation in other patient cohorts. Methods: We retrospectively evaluated the prognostic impact of the combination of the ALC and the AMC at diagnosis in a cohort of 299 DLBCL patients who were treated in the rituximab era at a single institution. Results: In univariate analyses, an ALC ≤1.0 × 109/l [4-year overall survival (OS) rate 47.0 vs. 79.4%; p < 0.001] and an AMC ≥0.63 × 109/l (4-year OS rate 52.4 vs. 75.6%; p < 0.001) were associated with inferior OS, respectively. In multivariate analyses, an ALC ≤1.0 × 109/l and an AMC ≥0.63 × 109/l were significantly associated with inferior OS independently of the International Prognostic Index. Furthermore, the combination of ALC and AMC could identify patients with the dismal prognosis; the 4-year OS rates for patients with ALC ≤1.0 × 109/l and AMC ≥0.63 × 109/l were 18.8%. Conclusions: The combination of ALC and AMC at diagnosis may be useful for the prognostic stratification of patients with DLBCL.
Notch Signaling Downregulates MUC5AC Expression in Airway Epithelial Cells through Hes1-Dependent Mechanisms
Authors: Ou-Yang Hai-Feng , Wu Chan-Gui , Qu Shuo-Yao , Li Zhi-Kui
Published: July 2013

Background: Mucus overproduction is one of the major pathological features of asthma, and MUC5AC is the major mucin component of airway mucus. However, whether Notch signaling is implicated in the regulation of MUC5AC expression in airway secretary cells is still undetermined. Objective: The aim of this study is to examine whether Notch signaling can regulate MUC5AC expression and explore the molecular mechanisms. Methods: Mouse mtCC1-2 cells and human NCI-H292 cells were transfected with NIC, and MUC5AC expression was examined. Using gene reporter assays, site-directed mutagenesis, and ChIP assays, the activity of both mouse and human MUC5AC promoter was analyzed. Results: Notch signaling regulated MUC5AC expression both in mouse mtCC1-2 cells and in human NCI-H292 cells. Several Hes-binding site N-boxes were identified in the 5′ region of both mouse and human MUC5AC promoters. Overexpression of NIC resulted in activation of the MUC5AC promoter. Site-directed mutagenesis report assays revealed that Hes proteins might repress both mouse and human MUC5AC promoter activity. Furthermore, ChIP assays confirmed that Hes1 binds to the MUC5AC promoter both in mouse mtCC1-2 cells and in human NCI-H292 cells. Conclusions: Notch signaling can directly downregulate MUC5AC promoter activity through Hes1-dependent mechanisms, which may be identified as possible targets for pharmacotherapy of airway mucus hypersecretion in asthma.