bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Cutaneous reactive angiomatosis associated with cholesterol embolism
Authors: Yang Ya‐Wen , Chen Chi‐Long , Ho Wen‐Tsao , Wang Kuo‐Hsien
Published: July 2009

Cholesterol embolism (CE) is characterized by emboli containing cholesterol crystal in the arterioles, most commonly found in the skin and the kidney. The skin presentations of CE include livedo reticularis, blue toe syndrome, ulceration and gangrene. Cutaneous reactive angiomatosis (CRA) is a recently proposed term to describe a group of reactive vascular proliferation in skin caused by various diseases. Its occurrence in association with CE is extremely uncommon. An 82‐year‐old man with a history of cerebral infarction and on long‐term warfarin therapy developed progressive, multiple violaceous papules and nodules on the dorsal feet, soles and toes, simulating Kaposi's sarcoma. Skin biopsy showed marked vascular endothelial cell proliferations characteristic of CRA affecting the full thickness of dermis. In addition, cholesterol crystal emboli were found in dermal arterioles. The skin lesions improved after the warfarin dose was reduced. We emphasize the possible presence of CE in a patient presented with CRA, especially in those with a pre‐existing atherosclerotic disease, on anticoagulation therapy, or having a prior history of invasive vascular procedure.

Yang Y‐W, Chen C‐L, Ho W‐T, Wang K‐H. Cutaneous reactive angiomatosis associated with cholesterol embolism.
DV‐ICE, intensive induction and early transplantation for adult patients with acute lymphoblastic leukemia: a phase II study
Authors: Dudler Christine , Bargetzi Mario , Tichelli André , Gratwohl Alois , Passweg Jakob R. , Wernli Martin
Published: July 2009

Objectives:  Eighty percent of adult patients with acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) achieve a complete remission (CR) but only 30–40% are long term survivors. Best treatment strategies remain to be defined. The role of induction intensity, first remission hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) and maintenance chemotherapy continues to be discussed. We tested a strategy of high intensity treatment of short duration followed by HSCT.

Patients and methods:  This prospective phase II study used induction with DV‐ICE followed by immediate allogeneic or autologous HSCT (depending on donor availability) without additional consolidation or maintenance treatment. DV‐ICE consisted of dexamethasone, vincristine, idarubicin, etoposide, and conventional dose cytosine arabinoside; HSCT was planned immediately if CR was achieved or after an additional course of intermediate high dose cytosine arabinoside and etoposide for patients with induction failure. A total of 42 consecutive patients between 17 and 67 yr of age (median 43 yr) were enrolled. Of the 42 patients, 57% were male, 76% had B‐lineage ALL, 19% T‐lineage ALL and two patients biphenotypic ALL. 29% were Ph+; 7% had 11q23 and 45% had a normal karyotype. CNS involvement was found in three patients.

Results:  Thirty‐three patients (79%) achieved a CR, 24 patients after induction I or II and nine patients after rescue HSCT. 31 patients received a HSCT (seven autologous and 24 allogeneic). 11 patients did not receive a HSCT because of early death in nine (treatment toxicity in five, refractory disease in four), one patient refused transplantation, one patient was not suitable. Disease‐free survival (DFS) of the entire cohort was 46% (95% CI ±16%) at 1 yr and 16% (±13%) at 5 yr. Overall survival (OS) was 63% (±15%) at 1 yr and 23% (±15%) at 5 yr, with a median follow‐up of surviving patients of 55 (4–136) months. Neither disease subtype, cytogenetic abnormalities nor patient age or gender was significantly associated with survival.

Conclusions:  Intensive induction using DV‐ICE followed by early transplantation without treatment beyond 4 months failed to improve outcome compared with standard treatment.
MAP17 is associated with the T‐helper cell cytokine‐induced down‐regulation of filaggrin transcription in human keratinocytes
Authors: Noh Minsoo , Yeo Hyeonju , Ko Jaeyoung , Kim Han Kon , Lee Chang‐Hoon
Published: July 2009

Please cite this paper as: MAP17 is associated with the T‐helper cell cytokine‐induced down‐regulation of filaggrin transcription in human keratinocytes. Experimental Dermatology 2009.

Abstract:  In the meta‐analysis of public microarray databases for different skin diseases, we revealed seven commonly up‐regulated genes, DSG3, KRT6, MAP17, PLSCR1, RPM2, SOD2 and SPRR2B. We postulated that the genes selected from the meta‐analysis may be potentially associated with the abnormal keratinocyte differentiation. To demonstrate this postulation, we alternatively evaluated whether the genes of interest in the meta‐analysis can be regulated by T‐helper (Th) cell cytokines in normal human epidermal keratinocytes (NHEK). We found that MAP17 was significantly up‐regulated in response to interferon‐γ, interleukin 4 (IL‐4), IL‐6, IL‐17A or IL‐22 in NHEK. Interestingly, MAP17 was originally reported to interact with PDZK1; in turn, the PDZK1 gene is localized within the atopic dermatitis‐linked region on human chromosome 1q21. In an attempt to evaluate whether MAP17 regulates the expression of cornified envelope‐associated genes at the 1q21 locus, such as filaggrin, loricrin and involucrin, we found that the over‐expression of MAP17 in HaCaT keratinocytes significantly decreased the expression of filaggrin. Taken together, the Th cell cytokine‐induced up‐regulation of MAP17 expression may be linked to the down‐regulation of filaggrin in NHEK, which may be associated with the abnormal epidermal differentiation observed in the dermatological diseases.
Reduction of syndecan‐1 expression during lip carcinogenesis
Authors: Martínez A. , Spencer M. L. , Brethauer U. , Grez P. , Marchesani F. J. , Rojas I. G.
Published: July 2009

Background:  Actinic cheilitis (AC) is an oral pre‐cancerous lesion that sometimes develops into lip squamous cell carcinoma (SCC). Syndecan‐1, a transmembrane heparan sulfate proteoglycan, modulates cell‐proliferation, adhesion, migration and angiogenesis. Malignant epithelial cells often down‐regulate their own syndecan‐1 production, and are capable of inducing aberrant syndecan‐1 expression in stromal cells. The aim of this study was to evaluate the variations in syndecan‐1 expression during lip carcinogenesis, in normal lip (NL), AC and well‐differentiated lip SCC.

Methods:  Biopsies of NL vermillion (n = 19), AC (n = 23) and lip SCC (n = 24) were stained immunohistochemically for syndecan‐1.

Results:  Syndecan‐1 expression was significantly reduced in AC and lip SCC as compared to NL (P < 0.05), with a significant reduction in lip SCC as compared to AC (P < 0.0001). In lip SCC lesions, syndecan‐1 expression at the epithelium overlying the tumor was increased when compared to the tumor itself (P < 0.03), but was significantly reduced as compared to AC and NL (P < 0.001).

Conclusion:  The results showed that epithelial syndecan‐1 expression is reduced as lip carcinogenesis progresses (NL>AC>lip SCC), suggesting that syndecan‐1 could be a useful marker of malignant transformation in the lip.
Role of TP53 in the progression of pre‐malignant and malignant oral mucosal lesions. A follow‐up study of 144 patients
Authors: Ögmundsdóttir H. M. , Björnsson J. , Holbrook W. P.
Published: July 2009

Background:  Prediction of progression from pre‐malignant oral mucosal lesions to malignancy, or recurrence of an existing oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC), is an important clinical problem in oral medicine.

Methods:  This study presents a follow‐up of a study published in 2002. Samples from 54 patients with OSCC, 45 with oral lichen planus (OLP) and 45 with hyperkeratosis (clinically leukoplakia), diagnosed between 1987 and 1996, were analysed for TP53 protein expression and TP53 mutation. Follow‐up was 11–17 years for OSCC (mean 13.3), 12–22 years for OLP (mean 15.9) and 12–17 years for hyperkeratosis (mean 14.5).

Results:  Of the 54 OSCC patients, 28 experienced recurrent disease, 21 died of OSCC, 22 died of other causes. Of the 14 OSCC patients with mutated TP53 (n = 11), the cancer recurred in eight (57%) and in 20/39 (51%) without mutation. Expression of TP53 protein was significantly associated with reduced overall survival. Among OLP patients, nine were TP53‐mutated out of 31 tested. One TP53‐mutated OLP patient developed OSCC in a different site. Of the hyperkeratosis patients, three were mutated of 22 tested. One hyperkeratosis patient (non‐mutated) developed OSCC in the same site.

Conclusion:  TP53 mutations can exist in benign oral mucosal lesions for many years without progression to malignancy. No association was found between TP53 protein expression or TP53 mutation and recurrence of OSCC or disease‐related survival. Overall survival was reduced in patients with positive TP53 protein expression.
Smokeless tobacco use among men in the United States, 2000 and 2005
Authors: Rodu Brad , Cole Philip
Published: July 2009

Background:  Compared with smoking, there is much less information about smokeless tobacco (ST) use in the United States. The purpose of this study is to characterize and compare ST use among American men in 2000 and 2005.

Methods:  We used US National Health Interview Surveys from 2000 and 2005 to estimate the prevalence of ST use, describe the demographic and socioeconomic profile of ST users and evaluate ST use according to product type and with respect to smoking.

Results:  The prevalence of ST use among American men was 4.4% in 2000 and 4.3% in 2005. Almost all ST users were white, about half were 25–44 years old and 80% lived in the South or Midwest, commonly in small metropolitan and rural areas. Educational and income levels of ST users were lower than those of never users of tobacco. One‐third of ST users also smoked; cigarette consumption was lower among dual users than among exclusive smokers. In 2005, 1.3 million current ST users were former smokers but 3.2 million smokers were former ST users. ST users were evenly distributed between snuff (43%) and chewing tobacco (44%) in 2000 and 13% used both products. By 2005 snuff use was clearly dominant.

Conclusions:  The prevalence of ST use among men is low but stable; dual use of cigarettes and ST is common, and snuff has become the dominant ST product.
Expression of matrix metalloproteinase‐1, matrix metalloproteinase‐2 and extracellular metalloproteinase inducer in human periodontal ligament cells stimulated with interleukin‐1beta
Authors: Xiang J. , Li C. , Dong W. , Cao Z. , Liu L.
Published: July 2009

Background and Objectives:  Matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs), produced by both infiltrating and resident cells of the periodontium, play important roles in physiologic and pathologic events. Both interleukin‐1beta and extracellular MMP inducer can stimulate the expression of MMPs, which in turn leads to breakdown of the periodontium. However, it is currently unknown whether interleukin‐1beta up‐regulates MMPs through stimulating the expression of extracellular MMP inducer. The aims of this study were to investigate the effect of interleukin‐1beta on the expression of MMP‐1, MMP‐2 and extracellular MMP inducer in human periodontal ligament cells and to evaluate whether the regulation of MMP‐1 and MMP‐2 by this cytokine occurred through an effect on extracellular MMP inducer expression.

Material and Methods:  Cultured human periodontal ligament cells were treated with varying concentrations (0.01–10 ng/mL) of interleukin‐1beta at for 6, 12 and 24 h. Reverse transcription–polymerase chain reaction, enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay, gelatin zymography and western blotting were performed to measure the mRNA and protein levels of MMP‐1, MMP‐2 and extracellular MMP inducer.

Results:  Basal levels of mRNA and protein for MMP‐1, MMP‐2 and extracellular MMP inducer were detected in untreated human periodontal ligament cells. Interleukin‐1beta significantly up‐regulated the expression of MMP‐1 and MMP‐2 mRNA and protein (p < 0.05); however, the levels of mRNA and protein for extracellular MMP inducer were not significantly different (p > 0.05). In the culture medium, the concentration of MMP‐1 was also increased significantly, but the concentration of MMP‐1 was not related to the concentration of extracellular MMP inducer (R2 = 0.2538, p > 0.05).

Conclusion:   Interleukin‐1beta up‐regulated the levels of MMP‐1 and MMP‐2, but it did not alter the expression of extracellular MMP inducer. Expression of MMP‐1 and MMP‐2 might be elevated by interleukin‐1beta and extracellular MMP inducer via two different signal pathways.
Quality of life assessment and disease experience of patient members of a web‐based hydroa vacciniforme support group
Authors: Huggins Richard H. , Leithauser Laurel A. , Eide Melody J. , Hexsel Camile L. , Jacobsen Gordon , Lim Henry W.
Published: July 2009

Background/Purpose: Hydroa vacciniforme (HV) is a rare photodermatosis that primarily affects children. It is characterized by photodistributed vesicles that heal with scarring. The purposes of this study are to perform the initial investigation into the effect of HV on quality of life (QoL) and gain insight into disease diagnosis and management.

Methods: Using the listserv from a web‐based, international HV support group, either the Dermatology Life Quality Index (DLQI) or the Children's DLQI (CDLQI), and an HV‐specific questionnaire were administered.

Results: Fifteen HV patients participated, nine (60%) males and six (40%) females. Median age at onset was 7 years, and 11/15 (73%) were younger than 18 years. The majority of patients were Caucasian (73%). Children cited life quality as being negatively impacted by an inability to play outdoors while adults noted QoL influences due to limitations on clothing choices. The mean CLDLQI and DLQI scores, 12.1 and 8.5, respectively, suggest a higher negative QoL impact than previously reported indices for generalized eczema, atopic dermatitis, and psoriasis.

Conclusion: When compared with other dermatoses, HV appears to have an equal or greater impact on patients' QoL. Dermatologists should be aware of the psychosociologic impact of this disease, especially on young HV patients.
ER Export of KAT1 is Correlated to the Number of Acidic Residues within a Triacidic Motif
Authors: Mikosch Melanie , Käberich Katrin , Homann Ulrike
Published: July 2009

For a number of ion channels, including the potassium (K+) inward rectifying channel from Arabidopsis thaliana (KAT1), diacidic endoplasmic reticulum (ER) export motifs have been identified. These motifs consist of two acidic amino acids (aspartate (D) and/or glutamate (E)) separated by any amino acid. To specify the role of single acidic amino acids for efficiency of ER export, we analysed a sequence of KAT1 that included the originally identified diacidic ER export motif (DxE) plus an additional D just upstream of the diacidic motif. Analysis of single, double and triple mutations of the acidic amino acids of the DxDxE motif revealed a gradual reduction of ER export depending on the number of mutated acidic residues. The amount of reduction in ER export was not related to the position, but only to the number of mutated acidic amino acids. These results show that a triacidic motif is essential for efficient ER export of KAT1. Function of the triacidic motif probably involves cooperative binding to Sec24.
ORIGINAL ARTICLE: Expression of Autotaxin, an Ectoenzyme that Produces Lysophosphatidic Acid, in Human Placenta
Authors: Iwasawa Yuki , Fujii Tomoyuki , Nagamatsu Takeshi , Kawana Kei , Okudaira Shinichi , Miura Shiho , Matsumoto Junko , Tomio Ayako , Hyodo Hironobu , Yamashita Takahiro , Oda Katsutoshi , Kozuma Shiro , Aoki Junken , Yatomi Yutaka , Taketani Yuji
Published: July 2009

Problem  Lysophosphatidic acid (LPA) is a bioactive lipid mediator and thought to play an important role in pregnancy. Plasma LPA is produced by autotaxin (ATX), and ATX activity in plasma increases during pregnancy paralleled with gestational weeks and decreases to near the non‐pregnant level soon after delivery. However, the source of increased ATX during pregnancy is still uncertain. We hypothesized that the source of increased ATX might be placenta.

Method of study  We investigated the protein and mRNA expression of ATX in human placenta using immunohistochemistry and RT‐PCR, respectively.

Results  At all 3 gestational trimesters, immunohistochemical staining for placenta tissues revealed the most marked positive staining of ATX protein in trophoblasts. Real‐time PCR revealed that mRNA amounts of ATX in placenta tissues paralleled with gestational weeks, i.e. ATX level in plasma.

Conclusion  These findings suggest that trophoblasts might produce ATX and its bioactive resultant substance, LPA, paralleled with gestational weeks.
Botulinum Toxin Type A—A Novel Treatment for Provoked Vestibulodynia? Results from a Randomized, Placebo Controlled, Double Blinded Study
Authors: Petersen Christina Damsted , Giraldi Annamaria , Lundvall Lene , Kristensen Ellids
Published: July 2009

Introduction

Vestibulodynia is an increasingly recognized problem among women and is often difficult to treat.

Aim

This randomized, double blinded, placebo-controlled study aimed to evaluate the efficacy of Botox in the treatment of vestibulodynia.

Methods

Sixty-four women were randomized to receive Botox (N = 32) or saline placebo (N = 32). Botulinum toxin A (20 I.E.) diluted in 0.5 mL saline or 0.5 mL saline was injected in the musculus bulbospongiosus at baseline.

Main Outcome Measures

Pain was measured monthly on a visual analog scale (VAS) Likert scale. Sexual function was measured using the Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI) and the Female Sexual Distress Scale at baseline and at 3 and 6 months follow up. Quality of life was measured using the 36-item short-form (SF-36).

Results

Sixty women (94%) completed the 6 months follow up. Both Botox and placebo produced significantly pain reduction (P < 0.001). There was no significant difference in the median VAS score between the groups at 6 months follow up (P = 0.984). An improvement on the FSFI full score from baseline until 6 months was not significantly different between the groups (P = 0.635).

In the placebo group a statistical significant larger reduction in sexual distress was observed from baseline until 6 months follow up compared to the Botox group (P = 0.044). No statistical significant differences were observed between the B- and P-groups in regard to the SF-36 scores.

Conclusion

Injection of 20 I.E. Botox in the vestibule of women diagnosed with vestibulodynia does not reduce pain, improve sexual functioning, or impact the quality of life compared to placebo and evaluated at 3 and 6 moths follow up. Both the Botox group and the placebo groups experienced a reduction in pain on the VAS Likert scale at 6 months follow up. Women with vestibulodynia have difficulty with sexual function and present with sexual distress, which has to be addressed in conjunction with pain to eliminate the disorder.
A Report from a Single Institute’s 14-Year Experience in Treatment of Male-to-Female Transsexuals
Authors: Imbimbo Ciro , Verze Paolo , Palmieri Alessandro , Longo Nicola , Fusco Ferdinando , Arcaniolo Davide , Mirone Vincenzo
Published: July 2009

Introduction

Gender identity disorder or transsexualism is a complex clinical condition, and prevailing social context strongly impacts the form of its manifestations. Sex reassignment surgery (SRS) is the crucial step of a long and complex therapeutic process starting with preliminary psychiatric evaluation and culminating in definitive gender identity conversion.

Aim

The aim of our study is to arrive at a clinical and psychosocial profile of male-to-female transsexuals in Italy through analysis of their personal and clinical experience and evaluation of their postsurgical satisfaction levels SRS.

Methods

From January 1992 to September 2006, 163 male patients who had undergone gender-transforming surgery at our institution were requested to complete a patient satisfaction questionnaire.

Main Outcome Measures

The questionnaire consisted of 38 questions covering nine main topics: general data, employment status, family status, personal relationships, social and cultural aspects, presurgical preparation, surgical procedure, and postsurgical sex life and overall satisfaction.

Results

Average age was 31 years old. Seventy-two percent had a high educational level, and 63% were steadily employed. Half of the patients had contemplated suicide at some time in their lives before surgery and 4% had actually attempted suicide. Family and colleague emotional support levels were satisfactory. All patients had been adequately informed of surgical procedure beforehand. Eighty-nine percent engaged in postsurgical sexual activities. Seventy-five percent had a more satisfactory sex life after SRS, with main complications being pain during intercourse and lack of lubrication. Seventy-eight percent were satisfied with their neovagina’s esthetic appearance, whereas only 56% were satisfied with depth. Almost all of the patients were satisfied with their new sexual status and expressed no regrets.

Conclusions

Our patients’ high level of satisfaction was due to a combination of a well-conducted preoperative preparation program, competent surgical skills, and consistent postoperative follow-up.
A Randomized Trial of Oral DHEA Treatment for Sexual Function, Well-Being, and Menopausal Symptoms in Postmenopausal Women with Low Libido
Authors: Panjari Mary , Bell Robin J. , Jane Fiona , Wolfe Rory , Adams Jenny , Morrow Corallee , Davis Susan R.
Published: July 2009

Introduction

Dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) and its sulfate DHEAS, which are the most abundant steroids in women, decline with age. We have shown association between low sexual function and low circulating DHEAS levels in women.

Aim

The aim of this study was to evaluate whether restoration of circulating DHEA levels in postmenopausal women to the levels seen in young individuals improves sexual function.

Methods

Ninety-three postmenopausal women not using concurrent estrogen therapy were enrolled in a 52-week randomized, double-blind, placebo controlled trial and received either DHEA 50 mg or placebo (PL) daily.

Main Outcome Measures

Efficacy was assessed through 26 weeks. The main outcome measures were the change in total satisfying sexual events (SSE) and the change in the Sabbatsberg Sexual Self-Rating Scale (SSS) total score. Secondary measures were the Psychological General Well-Being Questionnaire (PGWB), and the Menopause—Specific Quality of Life Questionnaire (MENQOL). Hormonal levels, adverse events (AEs), serious adverse events (SAEs) and clinical labs were evaluated over 52 weeks.

Results

Eighty-five participants (91%) were included in the 26-week efficacy analysis. There were no significant differences between the DHEA and PL groups in the change in total SSE per month or the SSS, PGWB, and MENQOL change scores. Overall AE reports and number of withdrawals as a result of AEs were similar in both groups; however more women in the DHEA group experienced androgenic effects of acne and increased hair growth.

Conclusions

In this study treatment of postmenopausal women with low sexual desire with 50 mg/day DHEA resulted in no significant improvements in sexual function over PL therapy over 26 weeks.
Structure and Bioactivity of Zirconia Nanotube Arrays Fabricated by Anodization
Authors: Guo Limin , Zhao Jianling , Wang Xixin , Xu Xuewen , Liu Heye , Li Yangxian
Published: July 2009

Zirconia nanotube arrays with a diameter of 300–350 nm and a length of 100 μm were prepared by anodization of zirconium in an organic electrolyte containing NH4F. The zirconia layers were annealed at 200–800°C in air. The morphologies of the specimens were observed using scanning electron microscopy. The phase structure was identified by X‐ray diffraction and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy. The bioactivity of zirconia nanotubes at different annealing temperatures was assessed by simulated body fluids immersion experiments. Results show that the nanotube arrays were stable when annealed at 600°C. The tubal layers containing zirconia with a low crystallinity and amorphous structure are more bioactive compared with a well‐crystallized structure.
Densification, Mass Loss, and Mechanical Properties of Low‐Temperature Pressureless‐Sintered Si3N4 with LiYO2 Additive: The Effects of Additive Content and Annealing
Authors: Lee Sea‐Hoon
Published: July 2009

The effects of annealing on the residual Li content, microstructure, and mechanical properties of pressureless‐sintered LiYO2–Si3N4 were investigated. The bending strength and fracture toughness of the as‐fabricated specimens were fair (∼640 MPa, ), in spite of the sintering at a low temperature (1600°C). The strength, Young's modulus, and hardness were improved up to 697 MPa, 284 GPa, and 13.9 GPa, respectively, by annealing treatments. Residual Li could be reduced to 0.008 wt% by annealing at 1650°C in Ar. Si3N4 could be sintered at a low temperature to give materials with a relatively low elastic modulus but reasonable strength values.
Hot Pressed HfB2 and HfB2–20 vol%SiC Ceramics Based on HfB2 Powder Synthesized by Borothermal Reduction of HfO2*
Authors: Ni De‐Wei , Zhang Guo‐Jun , Kan Yan‐Mei , Wang Pei‐Ling
Published: July 2009

Phase pure hafnium diboride (HfB2) powder was synthesized by borothermal reduction of hafnium dioxide using amorphous boron at relatively low temperature (1600°C) in vacuum. The synthesized HfB2 powder had an average particle size of 1.37 μm with an equiaxed shape, and a low oxygen content of 0.79 wt%. Using the as‐synthesized HfB2 powder and a commercial SiC, HfB2 monolithic, and HfB2–20 vol%SiC composite were hot pressed at 2000°C to relative densities of 95.7% and 99.2%, respectively. With the addition of SiC, the grain size decreased and the fracture behavior changed from intergranular to a mixed mode, which resulted in a high flexural strength of 993±90 MPa for the composite. Fracture toughness of the composite was 6.29±0.65 MPa m1/2, which was significantly higher than that of the HfB2 monolithic and the reported values in literature.
Al2O3–B4C–Al Composite Material Systems via Pressureless Infiltration Methods
Authors: Fox Richard T. , Newman Robert A. , Pyzik Aleksander J. , Han Chan
Published: July 2009

Modification of the Al2O3–Al system's chemistry via the addition of B4C is described and is shown to result in fully dense structures via wetting techniques at high temperatures, without the need for pressure‐assisted infiltration. The relationships between the surface area of boron carbide and alumina powders, the effectiveness of infiltration, the material chemistry following infiltration, and the resulting mechanical properties of Al2O3–B4C–Al composites are evaluated. Additional approaches, including the incorporation of aluminum metal powder as an additional wetting agent before infiltration, are described in conjunction with a variation of both the surface areas and the volumetric ratios of inert Al2O3 to reactive B4C phases. These methods can provide the means to achieve low‐cost metal matrix composites in both vacuum and argon infiltration environments, and represent an approach that enables the generation of articles with complex geometries, requiring minimal secondary finishing treatment.
Influence of 4ZnO–B2O3 Addition on Dielectric Properties and Microstructures of Barium Strontium Titanate
Authors: Teoh Lay Gaik , Lee Ying‐Chieh , Huang Yen‐Lin , Huang Hui‐Hsiang , Shieu Fuh‐Sheng
Published: July 2009

This study investigates the effect of 4ZnO–B2O3 on the sintering behavior, dielectric properties, and microstructures of Ba0.6Sr0.4TiO3 (BST) ceramics. These ceramics were sintered in air at temperatures ranging from 900°C to 1080°C. BST ceramics with 4ZnO–B2O3 addition can be sintered to a theoretical density higher than 95% at 1050°C. A secondary phase (Ba2ZnTi5O13) is produced in the BST ceramics during 4ZnO–B2O3 addition. Compositional analysis using TEM‐EDX of the BST ceramics with 3 wt% 4ZnO–B2O3 revealed that the Zn ion is generally located at the triple points. This result indicates that BaO, TiO2, and ZnO form a liquid phase that acts as a secondary phase at the lower sintering temperatures. The amount of secondary phase was observed to increase as the amount of 4ZnO–B2O3 additives increased. In addition, the original Ba0.6Sr0.4TiO3 phase was shifted to the Ba0.5Sr0.5TiO3 phase by the addition of 3 wt% 4ZnO–B2O3 at 1050°C. The Ba0.6Sr0.4TiO3 ceramic with 2 wt% 4ZnO–B2O3 sintered at 1050°C in air for 2 h exhibited dielectric properties of ɛr=1883 and dissipation loss=0.36%. Moreover, BST with 1 wt% 4ZnO–B2O3 addition sintered at 1080°C exhibits dielectric properties of ɛr=2330, dissipation loss=0.29%, and bulk density >95% of theoretical density.
Canopy Herbivory and Insect Herbivore Diversity in a Dry Forest–Savanna Transition in Brazil
Authors: Neves Frederico S. , Araújo Lucimar S. , Espírito‐Santo Mário M. , Fagundes Marcílio , Fernandes G. Wilson , Sanchez‐Azofeifa G. Arturo , Quesada Mauricio
Published: July 2009

This study aimed to compare canopy herbivore diversity and resultant insect damage to vegetation in two distinct and adjacent ecosystems, specifically a dry forest ecosystem and a cerrado (savanna) ecosystem that occur together in an abrupt transition zone in southeastern Brazil. In the dry forest, the canopy was reached using a single rope climbing technique, whereas the shorter canopy of the cerrado was assessed using a 7 m ladder. Insect specimens were collected by beating the foliage, and 20 representative leaves were collected to calculate the specific leaf mass (SLM) and leaf area loss through herbivory. Also, we collected ten soil samples from each habitat to determine soil nutrient content. We sampled 118 herbivorous insects from ten families, mostly in dry forest trees (96 individuals belonging to 31 species). A higher abundance of chewing and sap‐sucking insects were observed in dry forest trees than in cerrado trees. The same pattern was observed for the richness of chewers, with a higher degree of diversity of chewers found in dry forest trees than in cerrado trees. Herbivorous insects were not affected by SLM regardless of guild and habitat. However, we observed a negative correlation between the herbivory rate and the specific leaf mass (SLM). The cerrado trees showed a higher SLM and lower herbivory rates than trees occurring in the dry forest. These results suggest that herbivory rates in the transition dry forest–cerrado may be driven by soil nutrient content, which is thought to influence leaf sclerophylly.
Correlation of black hole–bulge masses by AGN jets
Authors: Soker Noam
Published: July 2009

I propose a feedback model to explain the correlation between the supermassive black hole (SMBH) mass and the host galaxy bulge mass. The feedback is based on narrow jets that are launched by the central SMBH, and expel large amounts of mass to large distances. The condition is that the jets do not penetrate through the inflowing gas, such that they can deposit their energy in the inner region where the bulge is formed. For that to occur, the SMBH must move relative to the inflowing gas, such that the jets continuously encounter fresh gas. Taking into account the relative motion of the SMBH and the inflowing gas I derive a relation between the mass accreted by the SMBH and the mass that is not expelled, and is assumed to form the bulge. This relation is not linear, but rather the SMBH to bulge mass ratio increases slowly with mass. The same mechanism was applied to suppress star formation in cooling flow clusters, making a tighter connection between the feedback in galaxy formation and cooling flows.
EU Environmental Sustainability Requirements and Brazilian Biofuel Exports   Exigences de durabilité environnementale de l’Union européenne et exportations brésiliennes de biocarburants   Die EU‐Anforderungen für ökologische Nachhaltigkeit und Biokraftstoffexporte aus Brasilien
Authors: Zahniser Steven
Published: July 2009

EU Environmental Sustainability Requirements and Brazilian Biofuel Exports

This article explores the EU’s goal to obtain 10 per cent of its transport energy from biofuels by 2020 and considers how the environmental sustainability criteria in the EU’s new renewable energy directive might apply to Brazil. In order to count towards the goal, biofuels must achieve greenhouse gas savings as high as 60 per cent after 2017. Regarding Brazil’s leading biofuels, the directive assigns a default savings level of 71 per cent to sugarcane‐based bioethanol and 31 per cent to soybean‐based biodiesel. Biofuels obtained from biomass grown on lands of high carbon stock or high biodiversity value would not qualify as sustainable under the directive, based on the land’s status in January 2008. However, the directive leaves open the possibility of converting some savannahs and open forests to biomass production. Amendments reported by the European Parliament’s Committee on Industry, Research and Energy (ITRE) but not incorporated within the directive would have called on second‐generation biofuels and vehicles powered by renewable sources of electricity or hydrogen to supply at least 40 per cent of the 10 per cent goal, and they would have treated all of Brazil’s savannahs and many of its open forests as unsustainable places for biomass production.
What is Corpus Linguistics?
Authors: Gries Stefan Th.
Published: July 2009

Corpus linguistics is one of the fastest‐growing methodologies in contemporary linguistics. In a conversational format, this article answers a few questions that corpus linguists regularly face from linguists who have not used corpus‐based methods so far. It discusses some of the central assumptions (‘formal distributional differences reflect functional differences’), notions (corpora, representativity and balancedness, markup and annotation), and methods of corpus linguistics (frequency lists, concordances, collocations), and discusses a few ways in which the discipline still needs to mature.
Metabolic syndrome and chronic kidney disease
Authors: RUAN Xiongzhong , GUAN Youfei
Published: July 2009

The prevalence of metabolic syndrome (MetS) is increasing worldwide in both developing and developed countries. Experimental and clinical studies have revealed that MetS plays an important role in the development of chronic kidney disease (CKD), which leads to end‐stage renal disease. Emerging evidence also suggests that CKD may actually cause MetS since the kidney is an important organ of glucose and lipid homeostasis. Although multiple mechanisms have been shown to be involved in the pathogenesis of MetS, insulin resistance appears to be a central pathophysiological factor contributing to MetS. In this review we will discuss the association of MetS with insulin resistance and CKD, and the renal pathophysiological changes associated with MetS.
Seed set differs in relation to pollen and nectar foraging flower visitors in an insect‐pollinated herb
Authors: Franzén Markus , Larsson Magnus
Published: July 2009

Assessing the relative contributions to seed sets of each of a plant species’ floral visitors provides an indication of the relative influence of these visitors on the plants’ reproductive success. In this study we compared the seed set of the gynodioecious Knautia arvensis (Dipsacaceae) in 49 local plant populations in two regions of southern Sweden. We measured the seed set for hermaphroditic and female plant individuals. In both plant sexes and both regions, the seed set was positively related to the abundance of Apidae. The seed set was negatively related to the abundance of pollen‐foraging solitary bees (Halictidae, Megachilidae) and beetles (Oedemeridae, Malachidae). The seed set was not related to plant population size, plant density or female frequency. Our results confirm that pollination success in generalised plant–pollinator systems varies between pollinator groups. Flower‐visitors foraging for pollen might not contribute to increased pollination success in generalised pollination systems.
Microsporogenesis and meiotic behavior in nine species of the genus Pinus
Authors: DENG Hui‐Sheng , ZHANG Da‐Ming , HONG De‐Yuan , FU Cheng‐Xin
Published: July 2009

Abstract  The meiotic behavior of 10 taxa (nine species and one variety) of the genus Pinus was investigated using pollen mother cells (PMCs) to reveal the differentiation among karyotypes. Chromosome spreads were prepared by conventional squashing. The meiotic index and the average configuration were higher, whereas the frequency of aberrance (chromosomal bridges, fragments, or micronuclei) was lower, in all 10 taxa compared with other gymnosperms. The meiotic index, average configuration, and frequency of irregularity were found to be uniform among the species. It was shown that the genomes of the Pinus species investigated were highly stable, confirming results of previous mitotic analyses in this genus. However, slight differentiation of homologous chromosomes among genomes was revealed by analysis of meiotic configurations in Pinus nigra var. poiretiana. Quadrivalents were observed in 9.31% of PMCs in this species. This is the first time that quadrivalents have been observed in gymnosperms.
Phylogenetic origin of Beckmannia (Poaceae) inferred from molecular evidence
Authors: XU Chong‐Mei , QU Chang‐You , YU Wen‐Guang , ZHANG Xue‐Jie , LI Fa‐Zeng
Published: July 2009

Abstract  The phylogenetic origin of Beckmannia remains unknown. The genus has been placed within the Chlorideae, Aveneae (Agrostideae), Poeae, or treated as an isolate lineage, Beckmanniinae. In the present study, we used nuclear internal transcribed spacer (ITS) and chloroplast trnL‐F sequences to examine the phylogenetic relationship between Beckmannia and those genera that have assumed to be related. On the basis of the results of our studies, the following conclusions could be drawn: (i) Beckmannia and Alopecurus are sister groups with high support; and (ii) Beckmannia and Alopecurus are nested in the Poeae clade with high support. The results of our analysis suggest that Beckmannia should be placed in Poeae.
Dynamic Design Criteria via Dimensional Analysis of Electrohydraulic 2-Stage Servovalves
Authors: Morgan Benjamin , Manwaring Scott , Alleyne Andrew
Published: July 2009

Just as environmental constraints lead nature to produce biological solutions that arise time and again in a variety of living organisms, industry market forces constrain the design of engineered systems. Using data driven dimensional analysis one can uncover these underlying design relationships for a class of dynamic systems. We apply this data driven dimensional analysis methodology to the class of 2-stage electrohydraulic servovalve systems. When the original servovalve design data does not present the expected dimensionless design relationships, we present a clean sheet of paper design which perturbs the servovalve parameters to maintain dynamic similarity and display dimensionless design relationships. These dimensionless design relationships can then be used to produce dynamically similar servovalves for entirely new parameter spaces.
High-Performance Motion Control With Slosh: A Constrained Sliding Mode Approach
Authors: Richter Hanz , Karnik Kedar B.
Published: July 2009

The problem of controlling the rectilinear motion of an open container without exceeding a prescribed liquid level and other constraints is considered using a recently-developed constrained sliding mode control design methodology based on invariant cylinders. A conventional sliding mode regulator is designed first to address nominal performance in the sliding mode. Then an robustly-invariant cylinder is constructed and used to describe the set of safe initial conditions from which the closed-loop controller can be operated without constraint violation. Simulations of a typical transfer illustrate the usefulness of the method in an industrial setting. Experimental results corresponding to a high-speed transfer validate the theory.
Piezoelectric Cellular Actuators Using Nested Rhombus Multilayer Mechanisms
Authors: Ueda Jun , Secord Thomas , Asada H. Harry
Published: July 2009

Piezoelectric ceramic material, such as Lead Zirconate Titanate (PZT), has large stress and bandwidth, but its extremely small strain, i.e. only 0.1%, has been a major bottleneck for broad applications. We have proposed a “nested rhombus” multi-layer mechanism for PZT actuators, which increases strain exponentially through its hierarchical cellular structure, for over 20% effective strain. To drive a large load, however, care must be taken in the design of the strain amplification structure. Through kinematic and static analysis this paper addresses how the output force and displacement are attenuated by the joint stiffness and beam compliance involved in the strain amplification mechanism. An insightful lumped parameter model is developed to quantify the performance degradation and facilitate design tradeoffs. A prototype nested PZT cellular actuator that weighs only 15 g has produced 21% effective strain (2.49 mm displacement from 12 mm actuator length) and 1.7 N blocking force.
A Practical Approach for the Design of Thickness and Tension Controllers in Multi-Stand Cold Rolling Mills
Authors: Soler Nicolas , Isermann Rolf , Feldmann Frank
Published: July 2009

Thickness and tension control in multi-stand cold rolling mills is a multivariable problem which in literature is typically solved with MIMO control approaches. Nevertheless due to the realization and commissioning effort SISO PI-control is often preferred for practical applications. In this article the coupling between strip thickness and interstand tension is analyzed in detail. Based on this analysis an assignment of controlled and manipulated variables is proposed for the design of SISO PI-control loops. A method for the controller design based on the Internal Model Control approach is presented and it will furthermore be shown how the SISO loops can be extended stepwise to a more complex MIMO controller. This results in a scalable control concept where performance and controller complexity are directly linked.
A Systematic Method for Automotive Three-Way Catalyst Diagnostics: Experimental Results
Authors: Dawson Brandon M. , Franchek Matthew A. , Grigoriadis Karolos , McCabe Robert W. , Smith Stephen B.
Published: July 2009

Presented is a method for model based diagnostics of automotive three-way catalysts (TWC). The model relates measurable engine inputs (engine air mass (AM) and catalyst temperature), to a metric indicating oxygen storage capacity, KTWC. The model structure is identified using orthogonal least squares (OLS). The model coefficients are estimated via the instrumental variable four step (IV4) approach. TWC diagnostics is realized using an information synthesis (IS) technique. This diagnostics method is experimentally validated using data from federal test procedure (FTP) driving cycle for a healthy (full useful life, FUL) and failed (threshold) TWC.
Microfluidic Manipulation in Biochip System
Authors: Wen Bor-Jiunn , Chung Yung-Chiang , Liu Tzong-Shi
Published: July 2009

A transporting mechanism is designed for a micro total analysis system to move samples and reagents through microchannels that connect unit procedure components in the system. This study presents control design based on the 8051 microprocessor and implementation of biochip system comprising a pneumatic pumping actuator, feedback-signal photodiodes, and flowmeter. The new microfluid management technique successfully improved the efficiency of molecular biology reaction by increasing the velocity of the target nucleic acid molecules, which increases the effective collision into the probe molecules as the target molecules flow back and forth. Therefore, this hybridization chip is able to increase hybridization signal 6-fold and reduce non-specific target-probe binding and background noises within 30 minutes.
Estimation of Exhaust Manifold Pressure in Turbocharged Gasoline Engines With Variable Valve Timing
Authors: Buckland Julia H. , Jankovic Mrdjan , Grizzle J. W. , Freudenberg J. S.
Published: July 2009

Feedforward A/F control in turbocharged gasoline engines with variable valve timing requires knowledge of exhaust manifold pressure, Pe. Physical conditions in the manifold make measurement costly, compelling manufacturers to implement some form of on-line estimation. Processor limitations and the calibration process, however, put constraints on estimator complexity. This paper assesses the feasibility of estimating Pe with an algorithm that is computationally efficient and relatively simple to calibrate. A traditional reduced order linear observer is found to perform well but has too many calibration parameters for practical implementation. Using the performance of the observer as a benchmark, static estimation is explored by parameterizing the equilibrium values of Pe with both the inputs and the outputs of the system. This nonlinear static estimate, combined with simple lead compensation, yields a practical observer implementation.
Dynamics Equations of Planetary Gear Sets for Shift Quality by Lagrange Method
Authors: Samanuhut Patinya , Dogan Atilla
Published: July 2009

The equations of motion of planetary gear sets including pinion dynamics are derived using the Lagrange method. The Lagrange method provides a systematic procedure for derivation and yields a single set of equations that are valid for all gears and shifts for a given configuration. This procedure is applied to the coupled planetary gear set in GM Hydramatic 440 transmission. The planetary gear set equations along with a simplified engine, torque converter, friction elements and vehicle model are simulated for 2–3 and 3–4 shifts. The simulation results demonstrate that the equations derived for planetary gear sets can be used for studying shift quality.
On Nonlinear Forced Response of Nonuniform Beams
Authors: Caruntu Dumitru I.
Published: July 2009

This paper reports the primary resonance of single mode forced, undamped, bending vibration of nonuniform sharp cantilevers of rectangular cross-section, constant width, and convex parabolic thickness variation. The case of nonlinear curvature, moderately large amplitudes, is considered. The method of multiple scales is applied directly to the nonlinear partial-differential equation of motion and boundary conditions. The frequency-response is analytically determined, and numerical results show a softening effect of the geometrical nonlinearities.
Robust Control of Residential Demand Response Network With Low Bandwidth Input
Authors: Burke William , Auslander David
Published: July 2009

This preliminary work is concerned with low sample rate control of a residential Demand Response network. Residential Demand Response networks are very high order nonlinear stochastic systems. We provide a methodology for dealing with this complicated type of system. Then we examine the performance and robustness of potential controllers. To date, only sliding mode control has been examined, but further work will compare sliding mode control to other robust controllers.
Broadcast Feedback With Hysteresis Loop Control of Stochastically Behaving Cellular Units With Application to Cellular Shape Memory Alloy Actuators
Authors: Wood Levi , Ueda Jun , Asada H. Harry
Published: July 2009

This work develops a probability broadcast feedback controller for an ensemble of stochastically behaving cellular units exhibiting hysteresis. Previous work has developed asymptotically stable control laws for ideal on-off cellular units without any hysteresis or time lag. This work extends previous results by developing an asymptotically stable control law for an ensemble of cells that experience an arbitrary refractory period after a change in output, during which time the cell output is fixed. This refractory period describes the behavior of hysteretic cells such as shape memory alloy (SMA) actuators or biological cell migration. Conditions for stability are obtained using a stochastic Lyapunov function. Simulation of SMA actuators demonstrates the application of the new control law to practical hysteresis loops.