bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Endothelial nitric oxide synthase, vascular integrity and human exceptional longevity
Authors: Puca Annibale Alessandro , Carrizzo Albino , Ferrario Anna , Villa Francesco , Vecchione Carmine
Published: November 2012

Aging is the sum of the deleterious changes that occur as time goes by. It is the main risk factor for the development of cardiovascular disease, and aging of the vasculature is the event that most often impacts on the health of elderly people. The “free-radical theory of aging” was proposed to explain aging as a consequence of the accumulation of reactive oxygen species (ROS). However, recent findings contradict this theory, and it now seems that mechanisms mediating longevity act through induction of oxidative stress. In fact, calorie restriction − a powerful way of delaying aging − increases ROS accumulation due to stimulation of the basal metabolic rate; moreover, reports show that antioxidant therapy is detrimental to healthy aging. We also now know that genetic manipulation of the insulin-like-growth-factor-1/insulin signal (IIS) has a profound impact on the rate of aging and that the IIS is modulated by calorie restriction and physical exercise. The IIS regulates activation of nitric oxide synthase (eNOS), the activity of which is essential to improving lifespan through calorie restriction, as demonstrated by experiments on eNOS knockout mice. Indeed, eNOS has a key role in maintaining vascular integrity during aging by activating vasorelaxation and allowing migration and angiogenesis. In this review, we will overview current literature on these topics and we will try to convince the reader of the importance of vascular integrity and nitric oxide production in determining healthy aging.
In vitro amplification of ovine prions from scrapie-infected sheep from Great Britain reveals distinct patterns of propagation
Authors: Thorne Leigh , Holder Thomas , Ramsay Andrew , Edwards Jane , Taema Maged Mohamed , Windl Otto , Maddison Ben Charles , Gough Kevin Christopher , Terry Linda Ann
Published: November 2012

Background

Protein misfolding cyclic amplification (PMCA) is a method that facilitates the detection of prions from many sources of transmissible spongiform encephalopathy (TSE). Sheep scrapie represents a unique diversity of prion disease agents in a range of susceptible PRNP genotypes. In this study PMCA was assessed on a range of Great Britain (GB) sheep scrapie isolates to determine the applicability to veterinary diagnosis of ovine TSE.

Results

PrPSc amplification by protein misfolding cyclic amplification (PMCA) was assessed as a diagnostic tool for field cases of scrapie. The technique was initially applied to thirty-seven isolates of scrapie from diverse geographical locations around GB, and involved sheep of various breeds and PRNP genotypes. All samples were amplified in either VRQ and/or ARQ PrPC substrate. For PrPSc from sheep with at least one VRQ allele, all samples amplified efficiently in VRQ PrPC but only PrPSc from ARH/VRQ sheep amplified in both substrates. PrPSc from ARQ/ARQ sheep displayed two amplification patterns, one that amplified in both substrates and one that only amplified in ARQ PrPC. These amplification patterns were consistent for a further 14/15 flock/farm mates of these sheep. Furthermore experimental scrapie strains SSBP1, Dawson, CH1641 and MRI were analysed. SSBP1 and Dawson (from VRQ/VRQ sheep) amplified in VRQ but not ARQ substrate. MRI scrapie (from ARQ/ARQ sheep) nor CH1641 did not amplify in ARQ or VRQ substrate; these strains required an enhanced PMCA method incorporating polyadenylic acid (poly(A)) to achieve amplification.

Conclusions

PrPsc from 52 classical scrapie GB field isolates amplified in VRQ or ARQ or both substrates and supports the use of PMCA as a rapid assay for the detection of a wide range of ovine classical scrapie infections involving multiple PRNP genotypes and scrapie strains.
Semi-artificial mouse skin membrane feeding technique for adult tick, Haemaphysalis longicornis
Authors: Hatta Takeshi , Miyoshi Takeharu , Matsubayashi Makoto , Islam Md Khyrul , Alim M Abdul , Anisuzzaman  , Yamaji Kayoko , Fujisaki Kozo , Tsuji Naotoshi
Published: November 2012

Background

An in vitro artificial feeding technique for hard ticks is quite useful for studying the tick-pathogen interactions. Here, we report a novel semi-artificial feeding technique for the adult parthenogenetic tick, Haemaphysalis longicornis, using mouse skin membrane.

Findings

Skin with attached adult ticks was removed from the mouse body at 4 to 5 days post-infestation for the construction of the feeding system. This system supplied with rabbit blood was kept in >95% relative humidity at 30°C during the feeding, and ticks were fully engorged (artificially engorged, AE) within 12 to 48 h. For comparison, ticks were fed to engorgement solely on rabbit or mouse for 5 days as controls (naturally engorged on rabbit, NEr, or mouse, NEm). Blood digestion-related gene expression in the midgut and reproductive fitness were compared. Body weight, egg mass weight, egg conversion ratio, and hatchability of eggs did not show any significant differences. We analyzed transcription profiles of selected genes assayed by quantitative RT-PCR and revealed similar patterns of expression between NEr and AE but some differences between NEm and AE or NEm and NEr.

Conclusions

Our results demonstrate that this semi-artificial feeding technique mimics natural feeding processes of ticks and can be utilized as a standardized method to inoculate pathogens, especially Babesia protozoa, into H. longicornis and possibly other tick species as well.
Infection by chikungunya virus modulates the expression of several proteins in Aedes aegypti salivary glands
Authors: Tchankouo-Nguetcheu Stephane , Bourguet Edouard , Lenormand Pascal , Rousselle Jean-Claude , Namane Abdelkader , Choumet Valerie
Published: November 2012

Background

Arthropod-borne viral infections cause several emerging and resurging infectious diseases. Among the diseases caused by arboviruses, chikungunya is responsible for a high level of severe human disease worldwide. The salivary glands of mosquitoes are the last barrier before pathogen transmission.

Methods

We undertook a proteomic approach to characterize the key virus/vector interactions and host protein modifications that occur in the salivary glands that could be responsible for viral transmission by using quantitative two-dimensional electrophoresis.

Results

We defined the protein modulations in the salivary glands of Aedes aegypti that were triggered 3 and 5 days after an oral infection (3 and 5 DPI) with chikungunya virus (CHIKV). Gel profile comparisons showed that CHIKV at 3 DPI modulated the level of 13 proteins, and at 5 DPI 20 proteins. The amount of 10 putatively secreted proteins was regulated at both time points. These proteins were implicated in blood-feeding or in immunity, but many have no known function. CHIKV also modulated the quantity of proteins involved in several metabolic pathways and in cell signalling.

Conclusion

Our study constitutes the first analysis of the protein response of Aedes aegypti salivary glands infected with CHIKV. We found that the differentially regulated proteins in response to viral infection include structural proteins and enzymes for several metabolic pathways. Some may favour virus survival, replication and transmission, suggesting a subversion of the insect cell metabolism by arboviruses. For example, proteins involved in blood-feeding such as the short D7, an adenosine deaminase and inosine-uridine preferring nucleoside hydrolase, may favour virus transmission by exerting an increased anti-inflammatory effect. This would allow the vector to bite without the bite being detected. Other proteins, like the anti-freeze protein, may support vector protection.
The influence of mammogram acquisition on the mammographic density and breast cancer association in the mayo mammography health study cohort
Authors: Olson Janet E , Sellers Thomas A , Scott Christopher G , Schueler Beth A , Brandt Kathleen R , Serie Daniel J , Jensen Matthew R , Wu Fang-Fang , Morton Marilyn J , Heine John J , Couch Fergus J , Pankratz V Shane , Vachon Celine M
Published: November 2012

Introduction

Mammographic density is a strong risk factor for breast cancer. Image acquisition technique varies across mammograms to limit radiation and produce a clinically useful image. We examined whether acquisition technique parameters at the time of mammography were associated with mammographic density and whether the acquisition parameters confounded the density and breast cancer association.

Methods

We examined this question within the Mayo Mammography Health Study (MMHS) cohort, comprised of 19,924 women (51.2% of eligible) seen in the Mayo Clinic mammography screening practice from 2003 to 2006. A case-cohort design, comprising 318 incident breast cancers diagnosed through December 2009 and a random subcohort of 2,259, was used to examine potential confounding of mammogram acquisition technique parameters (x-ray tube voltage peak (kVp), milliampere-seconds (mAs), thickness and compression force) on the density and breast cancer association. The Breast Imaging Reporting and Data System four-category tissue composition measure (BI-RADS) and percent density (PD) (Cumulus program) were estimated from screen-film mammograms at time of enrollment. Spearman correlation coefficients (r) and means (standard deviations) were used to examine the relationship of density measures with acquisition parameters. Hazard ratios (HR) and C-statistics were estimated using Cox proportional hazards regression, adjusting for age, menopausal status, body mass index and postmenopausal hormones. A change in the HR of at least 15% indicated confounding.

Results

Adjusted PD and BI-RADS density were associated with breast cancer (p-trends < 0.001), with a 3 to 4-fold increased risk in the extremely dense vs. fatty BI-RADS categories (HR: 3.0, 95% CI, 1.7 - 5.1) and the ≥ 25% vs. ≤ 5% PD categories (HR: 3.8, 95% CI, 2.5 - 5.9). Of the acquisition parameters, kVp was not correlated with PD (r = 0.04, p = 0.07). Although thickness (r = -0.27, p < 0.001), compression force (r = -0.16, p < 0.001), and mAs (r = -0.06, p = 0.008) were inversely correlated with PD, they did not confound the PD or BI-RADS associations with breast cancer and their inclusion did not improve discriminatory accuracy. Results were similar for associations of dense and non-dense area with breast cancer.

Conclusions

We confirmed a strong association between mammographic density and breast cancer risk that was not confounded by mammogram acquisition technique.
A survey on infection management practices in Italian ICUs
Authors: Bassetti Matteo , De Gaudio Raffaele , Mazzei Teresita , Morace Giulia , Petrosillo Nicola , Viale Pierluigi , Bello Giuseppe , La Face Sofia , Antonelli Massimo
Published: November 2012

Introduction

An online survey was conducted to characterize current infection management practices in Italian intensive care units (ICUs), including the antibacterial and antifungal drug regimens prescribed for various types of infections.

Methods

During February and March 2011, all 450 ICUs in public hospitals in Italy were invited to take part in an online survey. The questionnaire focused on ICU characteristics, methods used to prevent, diagnose, and treat infections, and antimicrobials prescribing policies. The frequency of each reported practice was calculated as a percentage of the total number of units answering the question. The overall response rate to the questionnaire was 38.8% (175 of the 450 ICUs contacted) with homogeneous distribution across the country and in terms of unit type.

Results

Eighty-eight percent of the responding facilities performed periodical surveillance cultures on all patients. In 71% of patients, cultures were also collected on admission. Endotracheal/bronchial aspirates were the most frequently cultured specimens at both time points. Two-thirds of the responding units had never performed screening cultures for methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus. Around 67% of the ICUs reported the use of antimicrobial de-escalation strategies during the treatment phase. In general, the use of empirical antimicrobial drug regimens was appropriate. Although the rationale for the choice was not always clearly documented, the use of a combination therapy was preferred over antibiotic monotherapy. The preferred first-line agents for invasive candidiasis were fluconazole and an echinocandin (64% and 25%, respectively). Two-thirds of the ICUs monitored vancomycin serum levels and administered it by continuous infusion in 86% of cases. For certain antibiotics, reported doses were too low to ensure effective treatment of severe infections in critically ill patients; conversely, inappropriately high doses were administered for certain antifungal drugs.

Conclusions

Although infection control policies and management practices are generally appropriate in Italian ICUs, certain aspects, such as the extensive use of multidrug empirical regimens and the inappropriate antimicrobial dosing, deserve careful management and closer investigation.
Stimulating an immune response? Oral sex is associated with less endometritis
Authors: Pittrof R , Sully E , Bass D C , Kelsey S F , Ness R B , Haggerty C L
Published: November 2012

Secondary analysis of the PID Evaluation and Clinical Health (PEACH) data suggests that among women presenting with signs and symptoms of pelvic inflammatory disease (PID), those who reported oral sex were less likely to have endometritis (adjusted odds ratio [OR] 0.5 [0.3–0.8]) than those who did not report oral sex. Adaptive immunity requires antigenic priming of the lymphatic system. As lymphatic tissue is abundant in the oropharynx, oral sex could lead to effective immune stimulation and prevent PID. To determine whether oral sex could be a protective factor for PID the relationship between self-reported oral sex and endometritis was analysed among 619 women with clinically suspected PID who participated in the PEACH study. Nearly one quarter of participants reported oral sex in the past four weeks. These women also reported a higher number of sexual partners, a new partner within the past four weeks and a higher frequency of sexual intercourse (all P < 0.03). They were more likely to smoke ( P < 0.0001), drink alcohol ( P < 0.004) and use recreational drugs ( P < 0.02). Participants reporting oral sex were significantly less likely to be black or to have a positive test for Neisseria gonorrhoeae (7.8% versus 21.6%, P = 0.001). Women who disclosed oral sex were significantly less likely to have endometritis after adjusting for race, number of partners, recent new partner, smoking, alcohol use and drug use (adjusted OR 0.5 [0.3–0.8]). This is the first paper showing a negative association between oral sex and endometritis. This may be mediated by a protective immune response in the genital tract following priming in the oropharynx. This hypothesis needs to be tested in further studies.
Managing HIV in pregnancy in a community-based sexual health clinic: a decade in review
Authors: Duncan S , Jones R , McIntyre M , Pilsniak A , Trott J , Desmond N
Published: November 2012

The management of HIV in pregnancy has evolved significantly over the past 10 years as our experience of combination antiretroviral therapy (ART) has grown. We reviewed 109 pregnancies which were managed at our community-based integrated HIV and sexual health clinic to investigate preconception and antenatal care, and trends in ART over time. We document an increasing proportion of pregnancies in which the mother was aware of her HIV status pre-conception and conception on ART. Pre-conception care was sought in a minority of cases, and many women did not present for first antenatal review until the end of the second trimester. Of 108 live births, there was one case of vertical transmission (0.93%). While our study demonstrates the efficacy of current strategies to prevent mother to child transmission of HIV infection, more could be done to encourage HIV-positive women to seek preconception advice and to attend for early review in the first trimester.
Platelet-rich plasma and blood components for non-transfusion use: technical and medicolegal aspects
Authors: Gentile P , D'angiolino A , Giusti D , Bocchini I , Di Pasquali C , Curcio B C , Cervelli V
Published: November 2012

There are a large number of publications describing the use of platelet-rich plasma (PRP) in multiple fields of application. These illustrate a large number of therapeutic elements with different and specific actions within ‘platelet gel’ (this term is used in the current regulations to define this product). This term, however, lacks specificity and, depending on the method used in its production is variable both in its blood composition and in platelet concentration, and several publications consider better and easier methods of platelet gel production, which may or may not lead to greater standardization in the product. The authors illustrate the general aspects of PRP and other blood components for non-transfusion use, briefly touching on the history and different fields of application and the rational of for its use. Given the increased use of such preparations, the authors describe critically the regulations in force in Europe and propose a new regulatory framework aimed to simplify and facilitate the use of such material as a therapeutic agent within medicine.
Improvement of Polymer Flooding Using in-Situ Releasing of Smart Nano-Scale Coated Polymer Particles in Porous Media
Authors: Ashrafizadeh Marjan , Ahmad Ramazani S.A. , Sadeghnejad Saeid
Published: November 2012

The main purpose of this paper is modeling and simulation of in-situ releasing of smart nano-sized core-shell particles at the water-oil interface during polymer flooding. During the polymer flooding process, when these nano-particles reach the water-oil interface, migrate to the oil phase and the hydrophobic layer of them dissolves in this phase. After dissolution of this protective nano-sized layer, the hydrophilic core containing a water-soluble ultra high molecular weight polymer diffuses back into the water phase and with dissolving in this phase, dramatically increases viscosity of flooding water in the neighborhood of the water-oil interface. In this study, two different time-dependent dissolution models are implemented. A swellable-chain disentanglement model with concentration-dependent diffusion coefficient is considered for dissolution of the core polymer into the aqueous phase, whereas, surface chain disentanglement with constant diffusion coefficient is considered for dissolution of the shell polymer in the oil phase. Using finite difference scheme, the governing equations are numerically solved by defining some dimensionless parameters for the main parameters as well as the moving boundaries. In addition, some experimental flooding tests in micromodel were carried out to experimentally investigate the recovery factor of using these particles compared to those of the conventional polymer flooding.
Controlling Factors on Oil and Gas Accumulation and Accumulation Modes of the Paleogene “Red Bed” in the South Slope of the Dongying Depression, China
Authors: Liu Luofu , Shang Xiaoqing , Wang Ying , Meng Jianghui , Jiang Zhenxue , Qu Dongfang , Zhou Jieli , Gao Yongjin , Liu Shuhui
Published: November 2012

The Paleogene “Red Bed”, the alternative strata for oil and gas exploration in the South Slope of the Dongying Depression, refers to a set of red clastic sediments of the lower 4th member of the Shahejie Formation and the 1st member of the Kongdian Formation. And it has important significance to study the controlling factors on oil and gas accumulation and the accumulation modes for guiding the deep-layer oil and gas exploration in the area. In this paper, according to the statistics of oil and gas static characteristics, analysis of oil original types, study of pathway system and recovery of oil and gas accumulation, the controlling factors on the Red Bed oil and gas accumulation were summarized as follows: source rock controlling oil and gas distribution, physical features of reservoir bed controlling trap oiliness, faults controlling oil and gas source and trap conditions, and nose structural zone controlling oil and gas migration and enrichment zone. Based on these studies, three accumulation modes for the Paleogene Red Bed in the research area were built: joints of source rock and reservoir bed acting as lateral pathway for oil and gas accumulation, faults acting as vertical pathway for oil and gas accumulation, and high pressure of deeper depression resulting in oil and gas flowing downward to form accumulation.
Distribution and Implication of Adamantane in Crude Oils in Lunnan Area, Tarim Basin in China
Authors: Zhu Guangyou , Jiang Naihuang , Su Jin , Yang Haijun , Hu Jianfeng , Cui Jie
Published: November 2012

According to the present research, the cage structure makes adamantane very stable to resist cracking even at a higher temperature, so its concentration will be increased with temperature rising. But adamantane quantitative analysis of oil in Lunnan area shows a poor correlation between its concentration and geotemperature. Instead, it has a good relationship with maturation parameters such as the content of C29ααα 20R sterane and C28 triaromatic steroid 20R as well as Ts/Tm. The reason is that the oil and cracked products generated in deep zone upwards charged in oil layers in low maturity and then turned into mixed oil which had higher concentration of Ts, adamantine etc. So it makes the parameters such as Ts/Tm ratio and adamantine concentration elevate. The incorporation a great amount of low molecular hydrocarbons diluted C29 ααα 20R sterane and C28 triaromatic steroid 20R, which resulted in the parameters of the mixed oil to indicate a higher maturation. Oils with higher adamantane concentration are mainly distributed on Lunnan fault-host zone, Sangtamu fault-host zone and Jilake structure zone. Cracked oil generated in deeper bed migrated along fractures which acted as channels upwards into the reservoir, and so adamantane content of the mixed oil increased. The source of Paleozoic oils in Tarim basin is involved only in two beds: lower Ordovician-Cambrian and middle-upper Ordovician. But according to the data in this paper, there is no obviously difference in adamantane concentration of oils from the two layers.
Desulfurization of Selected Hard and Brown Coal Samples from India and Indonesia with Ralstonia Sp and Pseudoxanthomonas sp
Authors: Singh Asha Lata , Singh Prakash K , Kumar Aniruddha , Singh M.P.
Published: November 2012

The present paper entails the investigations on the removal of total sulfur (S t) from the coal samples of four coal and lignite fields of India and Indonesia by Ralstonia sp and Pseudoxanthomonas sp. Minimum desulfurization (in relative%) was observed in Nagaland coals (India) which contain maximum quantity of S t (6.86%) among the samples of the studied area while higher removal (in relative%) was observed in coals containing relatively low quantity of S t. Nevertheless, a positive correlation exists between S t and removal percentage in samples of all coalfields indicating an increase in removal% with increasing concentration of S t. The removal percent (with respect to its initial S t) by Pseudoxanthomonas sp in the investigated area is in order of: Vastan (mean 41.84%) > Indonesian (mean 34.16%) > Nagaland (mean 18.26) coals. In case of removal by Ralstonia sp the order of removal % can be put as: Vastan (mean 45.50%) > Rajpardi (mean 42.93%) > Indonesian (mean 20.22%) > Nagaland (mean 11.83%) coals.
Interactive Vault Design
Authors: Rippmann Matthias , Lachauer Lorenz , Block Philippe
Published: November 2012

This paper presents a new computational framework based on Thrust Network Analysis (TNA) for the design of funicular structures. Fast and robust solving algorithms enable the interactive exploration of these constrained structural systems. By giving explicit, bidirectional control over the internal force distribution and overall geometry to the designer, free exploration of these statically highly indeterminate systems is made possible. The equilibrium of funicular compression networks is represented by reciprocal diagrams, which visually express the force dependencies between different parts of the structure. By modifying these diagrams in real-time, the designer is able to explore novel and expressive vaulted geometries that are blurring the difference between shapes associated to typical compression-only forms, obtained e.g. with hanging networks, and freeform surface structures. The power of this framework for design is demonstrated by a user-friendly software implementation, which has been used to design and build a freeform, thin-tile masonry vault.
Modern Lattice Domes Based on the Traditional Iranian Masonry Domes
Authors: Khodadadi Anahita , Nooshin Hoshyar , Bozorgmehri Zohreh , Golabchi Mahmoud
Published: November 2012

In this paper the forms of the traditional Iranian masonry domes are reviewed and classified into four main categories. These categories consist of the ellipsoidal, simple pointed, multi-curved pointed and conical domes. Also, for each category of domes relevant historical buildings are presented. Furthermore, for each category a parametric formex formulation is presented that allows generating various lattice models based on the geometry of traditional Iranian domes. Presented Iranian lattice domes indicate that designers can create their desired forms with appropriate patterns by modifying the pertinent parameters of the formulations.
The Refurbishment of Tonhalle St. Gallen
Authors: Arau-Puchades Higini
Published: November 2012

In this paper we describe one case of acoustic of refurbishment design. It is the refurbishment of Concert Hall of “Tonhalle St. Gallen. The centennial St. Gallen Concert Hall in Switzerland was a hall with many issues relating to the stage. High levels of sound, focusing, flutter echoes, and so on; the problem was never solved. The Director of the Orchestra and his musicians were generally very unhappy with this hall. In the last paper we analyse the St. Gallen Concert hall before refurbishment. In the Tonhalle St. Gallen the diffuser occupies only of stage area, but RT, EDT and G all are increased in audience zone, but in stage the G is decreased 3dB. The response by musicians, audience, and critics has been overwhelmingly favorable. Further research is needed to elucidate the mechanisms by which the labyrinth achieves these improvements, but the results in these venues suggest that this type of structure has an important role to play in acoustic design, particularly in smaller venues.
Sound Pressure Levels in Rooms: A Study of Steady State Intensity, Total Sound Level, Reverberation Distance, a New Discussion of Steady State Intensity and other Experimental Formulae
Authors: Arau-Puchades Higini
Published: November 2012

In this publication we include all, or almost all, the valid formulas of sound levels in different types of rooms. We will explain all the theoretical basis of each of them, starting with reflected intensity, both classical and revised theories, the total sound level and its uses in concert venues. We will also deal with empirical formulas mainly for classrooms, churches and religious buildings and industrial use.

However, the main significance of this work is not only the wide range of formulas exposed but also that we have found the explanation of why the reverberation radius, or distance radius, cannot exist in the revised theory. This finding can help that the revised theory of M. Barron be slightly modified to apply it to any room for several uses, other than concerts
Seismic Performance of Bonded Post-Tensioned Slab-Column Connections with and without Drop Panels
Authors: Prawatwong Unnop , Warnitchai Pennung , Tandian Chondro Hidayat
Published: November 2012

Two 3/5-scale models of bonded post-tensioned slab-column connections, one without drop panel and one with drop panel, were tested to failure. The study's goals were to: (1) develop information on the seismic performance of typical bonded post-tensioned slab-column connections; and (2) improve the seismic performance using a drop panel. A lateral quasi-static cyclic loading routine, simulating earthquake actions, was applied to the models' top columns. Overall performance was examined and compared in terms of lateral load-carrying capacity, maximum drift, stiffness, energy absorption, and failure mechanism. Relevant design equations suggested by ACI 318–08 Building Code provisions for preventing stress-induced and deformation-induced failures as well as previous similar tests by others were compared with test results. Results indicate that ACI provisions could be used for these connections, and the presence of a drop panel is an effective way to greatly enhance the overall performance of this type of connection.
Structural Damage Identification Using Improved RBF Neural Networks in Frequency Domain
Authors: Machavaram Rajendra , Shankar K
Published: November 2012

This paper presents a novel two stage improved Radial basis function (RBF) neural network for the damage identification of multimember structures in the frequency domain. The improvement of the proposed RBF network is carried out in two stages, viz. (i) first stage damage prediction by conventional RBF network trained with effective input-output patterns and (ii) in the second stage, minimization of the prediction error below the predefined error tolerance (3%) by training the network with patterns from reduced search space located after the first stage prediction. The network effective input patterns are fractional frequency change ratios (FFCs) and damage signature indices (DSIs), and the corresponding output patterns are stiffness values or damage severity of the structure at different damage levels. A Latin hypercube search (LHS) technique is used for finding the effective input-output patterns from the search space to improve the training efficiency. The numerical simulation of structural damage identification for two multimember structures; a six-storey steel structure and a nine-member frame structure, are evaluated with and without addition of 5% random noise to the input patterns using the proposed network. The novel improved RBF network is shown to be a good damage identification strategy for multiple member structures compared to conventional RBF and existing hybrid methods in terms of accuracy and computational effort.
Flexural Strength Design Criteria for Concrete Beams Reinforced with High-Strength Steel Strands
Authors: Baran Eray , Arsava Tugba
Published: November 2012

This paper summarizes the result of a study investigating the flexural behavior of concrete beams reinforced with high-strength prestressing strands. Thirteen concrete beams reinforced with either conventional reinforcing bars or high-strength strands were fabricated and load tested in the experimental part of the study. No distinct difference was detected between the experimentally obtained cracking patterns of the two groups of beams. For the same reinforcement amount, beams reinforced with high-strength strands exhibited slightly smaller service stiffness than those reinforced with conventional reinforcing bars. A comparison of the measured and numerically predicted response of beam specimens indicated that the cracking load, peak load, and the deformation capacity of concrete beams can be accurately determined by a sectional analysis procedure for both types of reinforcement. The level of ductility present in concrete beams reinforced with high-strength strands is evaluated using the parameter called “displacement deformability ratio.” Using the numerically determined maximum reinforcement limits for concrete beams reinforced with high-strength strands, an expression was proposed to be used at the design stage.
Fatigue Behaviour of Welded Steel Connections under Combined Actions
Authors: Liu Hong-Bo , Zhao Xiao-Ling
Published: November 2012

This paper describes experimental and numerical studies on the fatigue behavior of steel connections under combined loads, including a cyclic load and a static load. The steel connections consist of two steel plates joined together by single-sided girth welds. They were tested to failure under a constant amplitude tensile cyclic load combined with varied tensile static loads, which are perpendicular to the cyclic load. The experimental results reveal that the presence of the tensile static load in the perpendicular direction to the cyclic load is able to reduce the fatigue crack propagation rate and hence extend the fatigue life. Modeling of the steel connections is described in this paper to determine the effect of the magnitude of tensile static load on fatigue propagation life. The Boundary Element Analysis System Software (BEASY) is used. The analyses of these tested specimens are compared with their experimental results. It is proved that the boundary element method through the BEASY software is able to provide a close estimation of the cyclic behavior of steel connections.
Shaking Table Tests on a Recycled Concrete Block Masonry Building
Authors: Wang Changqing , Xiao Jianzhuang
Published: November 2012

A full scale model of a block masonry building with the tie column + ring beam + cast-in-place slab system, which was made of recycled aggregate concrete (RAC), was tested on the MTS shaking table at the State Key Laboratory for Disaster Reduction in Civil Engineering, Tongji University, Shanghai, China. The design and production of the test model, the design of the testing program and the experimental phenomenon were described in detail. The natural frequency, equivalent stiffness of the structure, the structural damping ratio, the acceleration response, the seismic force response, the displacement response, the base shear response and the structural fragility etc. were analyzed and discussed. The test results demonstrate that the RAC block masonry structure confined by the ‘tie column + ring beam’ system is a good solution to withstand earthquakes. The storey drift ratio and the overall behavior meet the requirements of Chinese design code. Generally, the RAC block masonry structure bounded by the ‘tie column + ring beam’ system with proper design exhibits good seismic behavior and can resist the earthquake attacks under different seismic levels in this study.
Fiber/wireless-optic and related microwave transmission using composite/nanomaterials-an overview
Authors: Strobel Otto , Lubkoll Jan , Betz Christian , Dietrich Elke
Published: November 2012

The idea of this paper is to present optical and microwave systems making use of new materials. Materials science as an interdisciplinary field has pushed on the development of revolutionary technologies such as polymer, semiconductors and nanomaterials. A brief introduction to optical and related microwave transmission systems was given; pure-optical, fiber-optic, Radar, WLAN and hybrid transmission systems have been taken into account. Principle operations and first promising experimental results in telecom and automotive applications have been shown. Also using Radar techniques we presented a Matlab/Simulink model of a correlation method for speed measurement allowing a variation of all known parameters.
Compacted nanosilica-talc /calcium carbonate polyacrylate composites prepared using accelerated sedimentation
Authors: Daud Norlinda , Shanks Robert , Kong Ing
Published: November 2012

The effectiveness of centrifugation as the compacting method in preparing high filler composites has been investigated. Different size and shape of fillers were used to ensure efficient filler space filling. In situ polymerization of bisphenol-A ethoxy diacrylate after centrifugating produced biomimetic composites with 74-86 % filler content. The filler space was efficiently filled by using a combination of nano and microsize fillers, especially in the nanosilica-CaCO3 composite. The morphology of the composites indicates that the fillers were well dispersed and embedded in the polymer matrix. The etched surface of the nanosilica-talc composite reveals that the combination of talc and nanosilica formed a biomimetic composite that displayed an ordered brick-and-mortar nacre-like structure. The wide-angle X-ray diffraction patterns indicate the crystal structure of CaCO3 and talc were maintained in the composite.
Multi-Block High-Order DNS Code Development for Jet in Turbulent Cross-Flow Simulation
Authors: Castagna J. , Yao Y. F.
Published: November 2012

A multi-block high-order finite-difference direct numerical simulation (DNS) code has been developed for studying turbulent flows over complex geometries. A global mapping technique is adopted and applied to a multiblock domain arrangement, in which each block is consisted of a structured mesh and the adjacent blocks are overlapped and matched with each other along the common interfaces. The physical bounds of interfaces are determined through a pre-processing, and a pre-compiler is developed to reduce the computational cost of expensive Jacobian calculations. The multiblock DNS code has been validated for benchmark test cases, including a free-stream preservation on three-dimensional wavy grids and a pulse signal traveling through an interface with different grid density. The parallel efficiency has been evaluated on various HPC platforms with very good scalability achieved up to 1000+ processors. Further code application has been carried out for a square jet flow interacting with a fully developed turbulent cross-flow. The conditions are the Reynolds number Re∞ = 1000, based on the free-stream quantities and the jet exit width, and a jet to a cross-flow velocity ratio of R = 0.5, 1.5, respectively. A counter-rotating vortex pair has been captured downstream of the jet exit and it was also found that the streamwise and the spanwise mean velocity profiles are in reasonable good agreements with available experimental measurements at Re∞ = 4700. However, some discrepancies are observed in other flow statistics such as the normal mean velocity and the kinetic energy distributions, and they are probably due to the low Reynolds number effect of the simulation.
A Fuzzy Reasoning Algorithm in Hybrid Causality Diagram
Authors: Wang Hongchun
Published: November 2012

This paper discussed the reasoning algorithm of hybrid causality diagram with fuzzy method, it map continuous–value into discrete states mainly, and this algorithm can also deal with fuzzy multi-value causality diagram, continuous–value causality diagram. The construction steps of membership functions were developed, the probability of event state was proposed. The calculation method of posterior probability of the interesting variable was given when evidence received, and the corresponding calculation formula is derived. This theoretical construct in this paper provides a new inference engine for inference under two types of uncertainty: fuzziness and randomness. At last, two examples are given which show that the algorithm is effective.
On Classification of Web Services Using Fuzzy Expert System
Authors: Almulla Mohammed A.
Published: November 2012

The evolution of the Internet from static Web pages into dynamic Web services raises a serious challenge of locating desired Web services. One possible way for Web services discovery is to classify Web services into different categories when they are published in a UDDI registry. This paper proposes a knowledge-based solution to the problem through the use of fuzzy expert systems. Our system automatically classifies Web services into specific domains through identifying key concepts/operations inside service textual documentations, and hence builds a lattice of classes of similar Web services. Results obtained by the system are compared with those computed by alternative methods.
Cleavage and polyadenylation specificity factor 1 (CPSF1) regulates alternative splicing of interleukin 7 receptor (IL7R) exon 6
Authors: Evsyukova Irina , Bradrick Shelton S. , Gregory Simon G. , Garcia-Blanco Mariano A.
Published: November 2012

Interleukin 7 receptor, IL7R, is expressed exclusively on cells of the lymphoid lineage, and its expression is crucial for the development and maintenance of T cells. Alternative splicing of IL7R exon 6 results in membrane-bound (exon 6 included) and soluble (exon 6 skipped) IL7R isoforms. Interestingly, the inclusion of exon 6 is affected by a single-nucleotide polymorphism associated with the risk of developing multiple sclerosis. Given the potential association of exon 6 inclusion with multiple sclerosis, we investigated the cis-acting elements and trans-acting factors that regulate exon 6 splicing. We identified multiple exonic and intronic cis-acting elements that impact inclusion of exon 6. Moreover, we utilized RNA affinity chromatography followed by mass spectrometry to identify trans-acting protein factors that bind exon 6 and regulate its splicing. These experiments identified cleavage and polyadenylation specificity factor 1 (CPSF1) among protein-binding candidates. A consensus polyadenylation signal AAUAAA is present in intron 6 of IL7R directly downstream from the 5′ splice site. Mutations to this site and CPSF1 knockdown both resulted in an increase in exon 6 inclusion. We found no evidence that this site is used to produce cleaved and polyadenylated mRNAs, suggesting that CPSF1 interaction with intronic IL7R pre-mRNA interferes with spliceosome binding to the exon 6 5′ splice site. Our results suggest that competing mRNA splicing and polyadenylation regulate exon 6 inclusion and consequently determine the ratios of soluble to membrane-bound IL7R. This may be relevant for both T cell ontogeny and function and development of multiple sclerosis.
Association and prognostic value of serum inflammation markers in patients with leukoplakia and oral cavity cancer
Authors: Chang Pi-Yueh , Kuo Yung-Bin , Wu Tsu-Lan , Liao Chun-Ta , Sun Yu-Chen , Yen Tzu-Chen , Chan Err-Cheng
Published: November 2012

Background: Oral cavity cancer ranks as the fourth leading cancer in men in Taiwan. The development of a serum biomarker panel for early detection and disease monitoring is, therefore, warranted.

Methods: Nine inflammation-associated markers were investigated in 46 patients with leukoplakia, 151 patients with untreated oral cavity squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC), and 111 age- and gender-matched healthy controls using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. During a subsequent 28-month surveillance of OSCC patients, serum samples were prospectively collected at predetermined intervals following the completion of therapy.

Results: Logistic regression analysis showed matrix metalloproteases (MMP)-2, MMP-9, C-reactive protein (CRP), transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1), and E-selectin having the best discrimination power between groups and significant elevation trends of those five markers were noted from control to OSCC. By combining those five markers, a 0.888 and 0.938 area under curve by ROC curve analysis with 67.4% and 80% overall sensitivity and fixed 90% specificity for leukoplakia and OSCC groups were demonstrated. In the follow-up period, 25 OSCC patients developed recurring or secondary tumors. All examined markers had decreased in relapse-free patients following treatment. However, in patients with relapse, interleukin-6, CRP, and serum amyloid A remained at elevated levels. Statistical analysis showed that patients with CRP ≧2 mg/L and E-selectin ≧85 ng/mL at baseline had highest probability of relapse (odds ratio=3.029, p<0.05).

Conclusions: The results indicate that inflammation plays a crucial role in the pathogenesis process of OSCC. By examining the inflammation markers, physicians could potentially identify patients at risk of cancer transformation or relapse.
Gangstabilisierung humanoider Roboter mittels Capture Point Regelung
Authors: Englsberger Johannes , Ott Christian
Published: November 2012

Dieser Beitrag beschreibt einen Ansatz zur durchgängigen Ausnutzung der Capture Point Dynamik für die Regelung von zweibeinigen Laufmaschinen. Der Regler beschränkt sich dabei auf die Stabilisierung des instabilen Anteils der Schwerpunktsdynamik. Von der Erzeugung einer Capture Point Referenztrajektorie aus gegebenen Schrittpositionen, bis zum Tracking dieser Referenztrajektorie werden alle nötigen Einzelschritte beschrieben. Eine Erweiterung des Capture Point Reglers auf Gangmuster, welche stark vom linearen inversen Pendel Modell abweichen, erlaubt das Laufen mit veränderlicher Schwerpunktshöhe und über Untergrund mit veränderlichem Höhenprofil. Das Regelungskonzept wurde in Simulationen und Experimenten verifiziert.
Magnetic resonance imaging of CNS in 15 043 children with GH deficiency in KIGS (Pfizer International Growth Database)
Authors: Maghnie Mohamad , Lindberg Anders , Koltowska-Häggström Maria , Ranke Michael B
Published: November 2012

Objectives

Neuroimaging has become an essential part of the diagnostic process in children with GH deficiency (GHD). The aim of the study was to document the frequency of neuroanatomical abnormalities in a very large cohort of children with GHD and to relate these findings to patient clinical characteristics.

Design and methods

Results of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) were reported in 15 043 of 43 725 children with non-acquired GHD (idiopathic, neurosecretory dysfunction (NSD) and known congenital cause) who were enrolled in KIGS (Pfizer International Growth Database) between 1987 and 2011. Clinical characteristics of patients before GH treatment with normal MRI (idiopathic GHD (IGHD) and NSD) were compared with those of patients with abnormal pituitaries (hypoplasia, empty sella (ES), HME (hypoplastic anterior pituitary, missing pituitary stalk and ectopic posterior pituitary)).

Results

Abnormal MRIs were found in 4032 (26.8%) children, within which ES (n=1178 (7.8%)) and HME (n=1019 (6.8%)) were the most frequent findings. In 2361 children diagnosed as IGHD or NSD before MRI examination, anatomical abnormalities ((pituitary hypoplasia:n=974); (HME:n=459)) were documented. Patients with anatomical abnormalities had more severe characteristics of GHD: normal MRI < pituitary hypoplasia < ES < HME.

Conclusions

GHD is associated with a great variety of neuroanatomical abnormalities as identified by MRI. The investigation and evaluation of MRI need to be conducted in a structured mode. There is an association between anatomical and functional abnormalities of the pituitary.
IGF1 dependence of dietary energy balance effects on murine Met1 mammary tumor progression, epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition, and chemokine expression
Authors: Ford Nikki A , Nunez Nomeli P , Holcomb Valerie B , Hursting Stephen D
Published: November 2012

Luminal breast tumors with little or no estrogen receptor α expression confer poor prognosis. Using the Met1 murine model of luminal breast cancer, we characterized the IGF1-dependency of diet-induced obesity (DIO) and calorie restriction (CR) effects on tumor growth, growth factor signaling, epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT), and chemokine expression. Liver-specific IGF1-deficient (LID) and littermate control (LC) mice were administered control, DIO, or 30% CR diets for 3 months before orthotopic injection of Met1 cells. Tumors grew for 1 month and then were assessed for Akt pathway activation and mRNA expression of chemokine and EMT constituents. LID mice, regardless of diet, displayed reduced Met1 tumor growth and downregulated Akt, EMT, and chemokine pathways. CR, relative to control, reduced serum IGF1 and Met1 tumor growth in LC (but not LID) mice. DIO, relative to control, increased Met1 tumor growth and chemokine expression in LID mice, and had no effect on serum IGF1 or pAkt or cyclin D1 expression in either genotype. Thus, circulating IGF1 (in association with Akt, EMT, and chemokines) regulated Met1 tumor growth. While the anticancer effects of CR were largely IGF1-dependent, the procancer effects of DIO manifested only when circulating IGF1 levels were low. Thus, in a murine model of luminal breast cancer, IGF1 and its downstream signaling pathway, EMT, and chemokines present possible mechanistic regulatory targets. Transplanted MMTV1 Wnt1 mammary tumor growth was also reduced in LID mice, relative to LC mice, suggesting that the IGF1 effects on mammary tumor growth are not limited to Met1 tumors.