bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Electrochemical Degradation Study of Alloys for use in Medical Implants
Authors: Borrego Alicia , Galicia Gonzalo , Gonzalez Carlos A. , Genesca Juan
Published: December 2010

Today, 316L stainless steels are the most used alloys for medical implants in developing countries. Because these alloys are in direct contact with body fluids it is necessary to explore the metal/electrolyte interaction and any unavoidable degradation. For this reason, electrochemical tests were used, mainly electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) to obtain information about the metal/electrolyte interface, and cyclic voltammetry to probe exposure to corrosion phenomena.
Cyclic Voltammetry Study for Electrodeposition Cu(In1-x,Gax)Se2 Thin Films
Authors: Castañeda-Valderrama Rocio , Miranda-Hernández Margarita , Carreon Alvarez María A. , Sebastián Pathiyamattom J.
Published: December 2010

A systematic study by cyclic voltammetry, and chemical and structural characterization to achieve electrodepositing Cu(In1-x,Gax)Se2 (CIGS) thin films is described. Mo foil substrates from low concentration buffered baths containing CuCl2, InCl2, GaCl2 and H2SeO3 were used. The electrochemical study shows the formation of CIGS on Mo substrate, the reduction of In and Ga in their metallic form in interval of to vs. SCE from Cu-Se, Cu-In-Se, Cu-Ga-Se, and Cu-In-Ga-Se baths is described in detail. Shows that the amount of Ga does not increase by increasing to negative potentials, however the amount of In increases and is further encouraged the growth of CuInSe2 films in a Cu-In-Ga-Se bath. All as-deposited films exhibit low crystallinity and CuIn0.81Ga0.19Se2 thin films were electrodeposited.
Synthesis And Characterization of Gold Nanoparticles (AuNPs) and their Electrophoretic Deposition
Authors: López de Lara González Gabriela , Videa Marcelo F.
Published: December 2010

The synthesis of nanostructured metallic materials has become subject of multiple studies due to the fascinating properties exhibited by such materials and their promising application in various fields of the industry. However, the control of the morphology, size and particle assembly of synthesized nanomaterials remains a challenge. The advantages of microwave assisted synthesis (MAS) have been discussed in the literature since it allows reducing reaction times and produces a homogeneous heating of the reaction media, which has a great impact on particle size distribution. Electrophoretic deposition (EPD) is based on the migration of charged particles in a suspension due to the application of an electric field. This technique facilitates the production of homogeneous deposits of almost any material and was used for the deposition of AuNPs onto ITO-coated glass. The gold colloids and the modified ITO glasses were inspected through atomic force microscopy (AFM) and electronic microscopy (SEM and TEM).
Electrochemical Removal of Chloride from Polychlorinated Biphenyls in an Oil/n-Butanol/HCl and an n-Propanol/HCl System
Authors: Celis Orozco Alfredo , Casillas Norberto , Ramírez Meda Walter , Guitrón-Robles Ofelia , Bárcena-Soto Maximimiliano
Published: December 2010

We present an exploratory study that seeks to identify new routes for the treatment of transformer dielectric oils contaminated with polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), through the usage of direct reduction electrochemical methods, using Pb/PbO2 electrodes. It is known to be possible to prepare a PCB emulsion using tensoactive agents and perform the direct PCB reduction effectively (1). Nevertheless, this procedure has drawbacks. We are orienting this study towards identifying media capable of dissolving the contaminated oil and conferring enough conductivity to make the direct reduction of the PCBs or to make an extraction of the PCBs of the contaminated oil before the electrolysis. To reach this goal, n-butanol as a solubilization agent and n-propanol as an extraction agent in HCl environment were selected. The high electrical resistance of the environment avoided the direct reduction, while selective electrolysis of the PCBs, once extracted in Pb/PbO2 electrodes, could take place.
Ion Transfer Across the Interface between Two Immiscible Electrolyte Solutions (ITIES) Formed by the Biphasic System Water-Propanol-Sucrose-PEG
Authors: Martínez-Álvarez Juan Andrés , Videa Marcelo F.
Published: December 2010

Ionic transfer between two immiscible electrolyte solutions has risen in interest in the past years for their various applications. ITIES are generally established between an organic and an aqueous electrolyte; however in this paper, the capability of ionic transfer experiments at the interface of an aqueous biphasic system is addressed. The results are reported on the water-sucrose-propanol-polyethylene glycol (PEG) biphasic system. Lithium Chloride, LiCl, and bis-(triphenylphoshporanylidene)ammonium chloride, BTPPYNCl, were chosen as supporting salts. A potential window of 1000 mV was observed. Ion transfer experiments were carried out after incremental additions of ammonium chloride. Cyclic voltammetries were performed at scan rates between 1 and 20 mV/s. Current peak increments related to ionic transfer were observed. Current peak showed linear correlation with concentration with correlation coefficients between 0.97 and 0.99.
Electrochemical Oxidation of Vanillin and Capsaicin in Hartmann Solution
Authors: Calvillo M.P. , Córdova Ivan , Del Valle Mario , Oropeza M. Teresita
Published: December 2010

The oxidation potential of vanillin and capsaicin in physiological solution Hartmann was studied by differential pulse voltammetry (DPV) and square wave voltammetry (OSWV). This study shows that vanillin has a single anodic current maximum potential and capsaicin has two oxidation potentials; the lower potential was obtained with a maximum anodic current potential of 516 mV by DPV and of 560 mV by OSWV; these potentials qualify capsaicin as an antioxidant agent and explain its chemoprotecting properties. The OSWV was the more sensitive electroanalytical technique, and is proposed for similar works in the future.
Muscle-specific overexpression of NCOATGK, splice variant of O-GlcNAcase, induces skeletal muscle atrophy
Authors: Huang Ping , Ho Shiuh-Rong , Wang Kai , Roessler Bryan C. , Zhang Fengxue , Hu Yong , Bowe Damon B. , Kudlow Jeffrey E. , Paterson Andrew J.
Published: December 2010

The protein O-linked β- N-acetylglucosamine ( O-GlcNAc) modification plays an important role in skeletal muscle development and physiological function. In this study, bitransgenic mice were generated that overexpressed NCOATGK, an O-GlcNAcase-inactive spliced variant of the O-GlcNAcase gene, specifically in skeletal muscle using the muscle creatine kinase promoter. Expression of the chimeric enhanced green fluorescent protein-NCOATGK transgene caused an increase of cellular O-GlcNAc levels, along with the accumulation and activation of proapoptotic factors in muscles of bitransgenic mice. The consequence of overexpressing the transgene for a 2-wk period was muscle atrophy and, in some cases, resulted in the death of male mice. Muscle atrophy is a common complication of many diseases, some of which correlate markedly with high cellular O-GlcNAc levels, such as diabetes. Our study provides direct evidence linking muscle atrophy and the disruption of O-GlcNAcase activity.
Distinct cellular pathways for resistance to urea stress and hypertonic stress
Authors: Lee Sang Do , Choi Soo Youn , Kwon H. Moo
Published: December 2010

During antidiuresis with elevated vasopressin, urea accumulates in the renal medulla to very high concentrations, imposing considerable cellular stress. How local cells cope with urea stress is relevant to the whole kidney because the renal medulla is the major site of residence for the renal stem cells. Previous studies showed that renal cells were incapable of preconditioning in moderate urea concentrations to enhance resistance to urea stress. Instead, preconditioning in moderately high salinity (moderate hypertonicity) has been shown to promote resistance to urea stress due to the induction of the molecular chaperone heat shock protein 70 (Hsp70), which is mediated by the transcription factor tonicity-responsive enhancer binding protein (TonEBP). Here we report that cell lines derived from the kidney and fibroblasts display enhanced resistance to urea stress after pretreatment in moderate, nonstressful concentrations of urea. Using TonEBP knockdown and immunoblot analyses, we demonstrate that TonEBP and Hsp70 are dispensable for the increased resistance to urea stress. These data suggest that cells in the renal medulla are capable of overcoming urea stress by activating distinct cellular pathways.
Spatial association of the Cav1.2 calcium channel with α5β1-integrin
Authors: Chao Jun-Tzu , Gui Peichun , Zamponi Gerald W. , Davis George E. , Davis Michael J.
Published: December 2010

Engagement of α5β1-integrin by fibronectin (FN) acutely enhances Cav1.2 channel (CaL) current in rat arteriolar smooth muscle and human embryonic kidney cells (HEK293-T) expressing CaL. Using coimmunoprecipitation strategies, we show that coassociation of CaL with α5- or β1-integrin in HEK293-T cells is specific and depends on cell adhesion to FN. In rat arteriolar smooth muscle, coassociations between CaL and α5β1-integrin and between CaL and phosphorylated c-Src are also revealed and enhanced by FN treatment. Using site-directed mutagenesis of CaL heterologously expressed in HEK293-T cells, we identified two regions of CaL required for these interactions: 1) COOH-terminal residues Ser1901 and Tyr2122, known to be phosphorylated by protein kinase A (PKA) and c-Src, respectively; and 2) two proline-rich domains (PRDs) near the middle of the COOH terminus. Immunofluorescence confocal imaging revealed a moderate degree of wild-type CaL colocalization with β1-integrin on the plasma membrane. Collectively, our results strongly suggest that 1) upon ligation by FN, CaL associates with α5β1-integrin in a macromolecular complex including PKA, c-Src, and potentially other protein kinases; 2) phosphorylation of CaL at Y2122 and/or S1901 is required for association of CaL with α5β1-integrin; and 3) c-Src, via binding to PRDs that reside in the II–III linker region and/or the COOH terminus of CaL, mediates current potentiation following α5β1-integrin engagement. These findings provide new evidence for how interactions between α5β1-integrin and FN can modulate CaL entry and consequently alter the physiological function of multiple types of excitable cells.
Older Type 2 diabetic males do not exhibit abnormal pulmonary oxygen uptake and muscle oxygen utilization dynamics during submaximal cycling exercise
Authors: Wilkerson D. P. , Poole D. C. , Jones A. M. , Fulford J. , Mawson D. M. , Ball C. I. , Shore A. C.
Published: December 2010

There are reports of abnormal pulmonary oxygen uptake (V̇o2) and deoxygenated hemoglobin ([HHb]) kinetics in individuals with Type 2 diabetes (T2D) below 50 yr of age with disease durations of <5 yr. We examined the V̇o2and muscle [HHb] kinetics in 12 older T2D patients with extended disease durations (age: 65 ± 5 years; disease duration 9.3 ± 3.8 years) and 12 healthy age-matched control participants (CON; age: 62 ± 6 years). Maximal oxygen uptake (V̇o2max) was determined via a ramp incremental cycle test and V̇o2and [HHb] kinetics were determined during subsequent submaximal step exercise. The V̇o2maxwas significantly reduced ( P < 0.05) in individuals with T2D compared with CON (1.98 ± 0.43 vs. 2.72 ± 0.40 l/min, respectively) but, surprisingly, V̇o2kinetics was not different in T2D compared with CON (phase II time constant: 43 ± 17 vs. 41 ± 12 s, respectively). The Δ[HHb]/ΔV̇o2was significantly higher in T2D compared with CON (235 ± 99 vs. 135 ± 33 AU·l−1·min−1; P < 0.05). Despite a lower V̇o2max, V̇o2kinetics is not different in older T2D compared with healthy age-matched control participants. The elevated Δ[HHb]/ΔV̇o2in T2D individuals possibly indicates a compromised muscle blood flow that mandates a greater O2extraction during exercise. Longer disease duration may result in adaptations in the O2extraction capabilities of individuals with T2D, thereby mitigating the expected age-related slowing of V̇o2kinetics.
Hemodynamic responses to heat stress in the resting and exercising human leg: insight into the effect of temperature on skeletal muscle blood flow
Authors: Pearson James , Low David A. , Stöhr Eric , Kalsi Kameljit , Ali Leena , Barker Horace , González-Alonso José
Published: December 2010

Heat stress increases limb blood flow and cardiac output (Q̇) in humans, presumably in sole response to an augmented thermoregulatory demand of the skin circulation. Here we tested the hypothesis that local hyperthermia also increases skeletal muscle blood flow at rest and during exercise. Hemodynamics, blood and tissue oxygenation, and muscle, skin, and core temperatures were measured at rest and during exercise in 11 males across four conditions of progressive whole body heat stress and at rest during isolated leg heat stress. During whole body heat stress, leg blood flow (LBF), Q̇, and leg (LVC) and systemic vascular conductance increased gradually with elevations in muscle temperature both at rest and during exercise ( r2 = 0.86–0.99; P < 0.05). Enhanced LBF and LVC were accompanied by reductions in leg arteriovenous oxygen (a-vO2) difference and increases in deep femoral venous O2 content and quadriceps tissue oxygenation, reflecting elevations in muscle and skin perfusion. The increase in LVC occurred despite an augmented plasma norepinephrine ( P < 0.05) and was associated with elevations in muscle temperature ( r2 = 0.85; P = 0.001) and arterial plasma ATP ( r2 = 0.87; P < 0.001). Isolated leg heat stress accounted for one-half of the increase in LBF with severe whole body heat stress. Our findings suggest that local hyperthermia also induces vasodilatation of the skeletal muscle microvasculature, thereby contributing to heat stress and exercise hyperemia. The increased limb muscle vasodilatation in these conditions of elevated muscle sympathetic vasoconstrictor activity is closely related to the rise in arterial plasma ATP and local tissue temperature.
Flow regulation of collecting duct endothelin-1 production
Authors: Lyon-Roberts Brianna , Strait Kevin A. , van Peursem Evan , Kittikulsuth Wararat , Pollock Jennifer S. , Pollock David M. , Kohan Donald E.
Published: December 2010

Collecting duct (CD) endothelin-1 (ET-1) is an important autocrine inhibitor of CD Na+reabsorption. Salt loading is thought to increase CD ET-1 production; however, definitive evidence of this, as well as understanding of the mechanisms transducing this effect, is lacking. Tubule fluid flow increases in response to Na+loading; hence, we studied flow modulation of CD ET-1 production. Three days of a high-salt diet increased mouse and rat inner medullary CD (IMCD) ET-1 mRNA expression. Acute furosemide infusion increased urinary ET-1 excretion in anesthetized rats. Primary cultures of mouse or rat IMCD detached in response to flow using a closed perfusion chamber, consequently a CD cell line (mpkCCDcl4) was examined. Flow increased ET-1 mRNA at shear stress rates exceeding 1 dyne/cm2, with the maximal effect seen between 2 and 10 dyne/cm2. Induction of ET-1 mRNA was first evident after 1 h, and most apparent after 2 h, of flow. Inhibition of calmodulin or dihydropyridine-sensitive Ca2+channels did not alter the flow response; however, chelation of intracellular Ca2+or removal of extracellular Ca2+largely prevented flow-stimulated ET-1 mRNA accumulation. Downregulation of protein kinase C (PKC) using phorbol 12-myristate 13-acetate, or PKC inhibition with calphostin C, markedly reduced flow-stimulated ET-1 mRNA levels. Flow-stimulated ET-1 mRNA accumulation was abolished by inhibition of phospholipase C (PLC). Taken together, these data indicate that flow increases CD ET-1 production and this is dependent on extracellular and intracellular Ca2+, PKC, and PLC. These studies suggest a novel pathway for coupling alterations in extracellular fluid volume to CD ET-1 production and ultimately control of CD Na+reabsorption.
A novel path for rapid transverse communication of vestibular signals in turtle cerebellum
Authors: Brown Michael E. , Martin John R. , Rosenbluth Jack , Ariel Michael
Published: December 2010

Voltage-sensitive dye activity within the thin, unfoliated turtle cerebellar cortex (Cb) was recorded in vitro during eighth cranial nerve (nVIII) stimulation. Short latency responses were localized to the middle of the lateral edges of both ipsilateral and contralateral Cb [vestibulocerebellum (vCb)]. Even with a severed contralateral Cb peduncle, stimulation of the nVIII ipsilateral to the intact peduncle evoked contralateral vCb responses with a mean latency of only 0.25 ms after the ipsilateral responses, even though the distance between them was ∼5 mm. We investigated whether a rapidly conducting commissure exists between each vCb by stimulating one of them directly. Responses in both vCb spread sagittally, but, surprisingly, there was no sequential activation along a transverse Cb beam between them. In contrast, stimulation medial to either vCb evoked transverse beams that required ∼20 ms to cross the Cb. Therefore, the rapid commissural connection between each vCb is not mediated by slowly conducting parallel fibers. Also, the vCb was not strongly activated by climbing fiber stimulation, suggesting that inputs to vCb involve distinct cerebellar circuits. Responses between the two vCb remained following knife cuts through the rostral and caudal Cb along the midline, through both peduncles, and even shallow midline cuts to the middle Cb through its white matter and granule cell layer. Commissural responses were still observed only with a narrow transverse bridge between each vCb or in thick transverse Cb slices. Horseradish peroxidase transport from one vCb labeled transverse axons traveling within the Purkinje cell layer that were larger than parallel fibers and lacked varicosities. In sagittal sections, cross-section profiles of myelinated axons were observed around Purkinje cells midway between the rostral and caudal Cb. This novel pathway for transverse communication between lateral edges of turtle Cb suggests that afferents may directly conduct vestibular information rapidly across the Cb to coordinate vestibulomotor reflex behaviors.
Robust Exponential Stabilization of Uncertain Impulsive Bilinear Time-Delay Systems with Saturating Actuators
Authors: Shujie Yang , Bao Shi , Qiang Zhang , Tetie Pan
Published: December 2010

This paper investigates the problem of robust exponential stabilization for uncertain impulsive bilinear time-delay systems with saturating actuators. By using the Lyapunov function and Razumikhin-type techniques, two classes of impulsive systems are considered: the systems with unstable discrete-time dynamics and the ones with stable discrete-time dynamics. Sufficient conditions for robust stabilization are obtained in terms of linear matrix inequalities. Numerical examples are given to illustrate the effectiveness of the theoretical results.
Human Sperm Bioassay for Reprotoxicity Testing in Embryo Culture Media: Some Practical Considerations in Reducing the Assay Time
Authors: Hossain Amjad , Aryal Subhash , Osuampke Collin , Phelps John
Published: December 2010

Human sperm assay (HSA) is a preferred in house quality control and proficiency test (PT) practiced in fertility laboratories. HSA is performed over varying durations, apparently without following set criteria. To better understand the assay time required for reprotoxicity testing in embryo culture media, we compared American-Association-of-Bioanalysts-(AAB-) administered HSA data to our own assay performed using PT samples obtained from AAB. Participating laboratories were required to culture sperm for 48 hours to determine media acceptability. Conclusions drawn from 48- and 24-hour observations were the same, suggesting that HSA could identify reprotoxic media in less time than required by AAB. Our assay revealed that changes in motility grade in adulterated media are significantly different from those in control media. Furthermore, grade changes can be identified earlier than differences in motility loss between samples. Analyzing motility and motility quality together provides a method for establishing an optimal time for HSA.
Sinonasal Schwannoma with New Bone Formation Expressing Bone Morphogenic Protein
Authors: Kodama Satoru , Okamoto Tomoyo , Suzuki Masashi
Published: December 2010

Schwannoma is a benign tumor that arises from the sheath of myelinated nerve fibers and may occur in any part of the body. Osteogenesis in schwannoma is extremely rare and, to date, new bone formation in sinonasal schwannoma has not yet been reported. Here, we describe the first reported case of sinonasal schwannoma with new bone formation. The tumor was successfully treated by endoscopic sinus surgery, and the patient showed no evidence of recurrence 24 months postoperatively. Immunohistochemically, the tumor expressed bone morphogenic protein 4, indicating a possible role of this protein in the new bone formation in schwannomas.
Toxicity Assessment of the Xanthid CrabDemania cultripesfrom Cebu Island, Philippines
Authors: Asakawa Manabu , Gomez-Delan Gloria , Tsuruda Shintaro , Shimomura Michitaka , Shida Yasuo , Taniyama Shigeto , Barte-Quilantang Mercy , Shindo Jo
Published: December 2010

Several cases of poisoning resulting in human fatalities and stemming from the ingestion of coral reef crabs have been reported from the Indo-Pacific region. We assessed the toxicity of the unidentified xanthid crab collected from the Camotes Sea off the eastern coast of Cebu Island, central Visayas region of Philippines from the food hygienic point of view. All seven specimens, which were identified withDemania cultripes, collected in 2006 were toxic to mice irrespective of the season of collection and induced paralytic symptoms typical of tetrodotoxin (TTX) and paralytic shellfish poison (PSP). The activity was expressed in mouse unit (MU) being defined as the amount of TTX to kill a 20 g ddY male mice in 30 min afteri.p.injection. Toxicity scores for viscera and appendages of specimens were18.2±16.0(mean ± S.D.) and4.4±2.6 MU/g, respectively. The highest individual toxicity scores observed for viscera and appendages were 52.1 and 7.7 MU/g, respectively. The frequency of toxic samples was 100%. Toxin profiles as determined by high-performance liquid chromatography-fluorescent detection analysis (HPLC-FLD) revealed that TTX was the main toxic principle accounting for about 90% of the total toxicity along with 4-epiTTX and 4,9-anhydroTTX. Furthermore, gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) analysis revealed mass fragment ion peaks atm/z376, 392 and 407, which were characteristic of the quinazoline skeleton (C9-base) specific to TTX. In addition, only a small amount of PSP containing gonyautoxins1–4 and hydroxysaxitoxin was detected. To our knowledge, this is the first report presenting evidence of occurrence of TTX and PSP in the xanthid crabD. cultripesinhabiting waters surrounding Cebu Island. From food hygienic point of view, people in coastal areas should be warned of the potential hazard of this crab in order to prevent its intentional or accidental consumption.
Inflammation, HIF-1, and the Epigenetics That Follows
Authors: Brigati Claudio , Banelli Barbara , di Vinci Angela , Casciano Ida , Allemanni Giorgio , Forlani Alessandra , Borzì Luana , Romani Massimo
Published: December 2010

We summarize recent findings linking inflammatory hypoxia to chromatin modifications, in particular to repressive histone signatures. We focus on the role of Hypoxia-Induced Factor-1 in promoting the activity of specific histone demethylases thus deeply modifying chromatin configuration. The consequences of these changes are depicted in terms of gene expression and cellular phenotypes. We finally integrate available data to introduce novel speculations on the relationship between inflammation, histones, and DNA function and integrity.
Low-Cost QCM Sensor System for Screening Semen Samples
Authors: Newton Michael I. , Atherton Shaun , Morris Robert H. , Stanley Simon M. , Evans Carl R. , Hughes David C. , McHale Glen
Published: December 2010

Artificial insemination is a well-established part of modern agricultural practice. A viable semen sample is judged by the total number of spermatozoa (sperm) in the sample and the motility of the sperm. In this paper, we report the development of a reusable measurement cell and electronics for screening semen samples based on the Quartz Crystal Microbalance (QCM) and Universal Frequency to Digital Converter (UFDC-1) to produce a low-cost sensor system. After introducing the semen sample at one end of the measurement cell, sperm swim down a channel before causing a frequency change on the QCM. Data is presented that shows the different frequency changes using a commercial frequency counter caused by porcine semen samples, one two days old and one twenty one days old. Similar data is presented for a motile semen sample measurement using the low-cost UFDC-1.
Strong Convergence Theorems of a New General Iterative Process with Meir-Keeler Contractions for a Countable Family of "Equation missing" -Strict Pseudocontractions in "Equation missing" -Uniformly Smooth Banach Spaces
Authors: Song Yanlai , Hu Changsong
Published: December 2010

We introduce a new iterative scheme with Meir-Keeler contractions for strict pseudocontractions in "Equation missing"-uniformly smooth Banach spaces. We also discuss the strong convergence theorems for the new iterative scheme in "Equation missing"-uniformly smooth Banach space. Our results improve and extend the corresponding results announced by many others.
The Hyperspherical Functions of a Derivative
Authors: Cakic Nenad , Letic Duško , Davidovic Branko
Published: December 2010

We present the results of theoretical research of the generalized hypersherical function (HS) by generalizing two known functions related to the sphere hypersurface and hypervolume and the recurrent relation between them. By introducing two‐dimensional degrees of freedom k and n (and the third, radius r), we develop the derivative functions for all three arguments and the possibilities of their use. The symbolical evolution, numerical experiment, and graphical presentation of functions are realized using the Mathcad Professional and Mathematica softwares.
Performance of Sprayed Fiber Reinforced Polymer Strengthened Timber Beams
Authors: Talukdar S. , Banthia N.
Published: December 2010

A study was carried out to investigate the use of Sprayed Fiber Reinforced Polymer (SFRP) for retrofit of timber beams. A total of 10-full scale specimens were tested. Two different timber preservatives and two different bonding agents were investigated. Strengthening was characterized using load deflection diagrams. Results indicate that it is possible to enhance load-carrying capacity and energy absorption characteristics using the technique of SFRP. Of the two types of preservatives investigated, the technique appears to be more effective for the case of creosote-treated specimens, where up to a 51% improvement in load-carrying capacity and a 460% increase in the energy absorption capacity were noted. Effectiveness of the bonding agent used was dependent on the type of preservative the specimen had been treated with.
Systemic Administration of Mesenchymal Stem Cells Increases Neuron Survival after Global Cerebral Ischemia In Vivo (2VO)
Authors: Perasso Luisa , Cogo Carla Emilia , Giunti Debora , Gandolfo Carlo , Ruggeri Piero , Uccelli Antonio , Balestrino Maurizio
Published: December 2010

Although many studies have shown that administration of stem cells after focal cerebral ischemia improves brain damage, very little data are available concerning the damage induced by global cerebral ischemia. The latter causes neuronal death in selectively vulnerable areas, including the hippocampal CA1 region. We tested the hypothesis that intravenous infusion of bone marrowderived stromal cells (mesenchimal stem cells, MSC) reduce brain damage after transient global ischemia. In adult male Sprague-Dawley rats transient global ischemia was induced using bilateral common carotid artery occlusion for 20 min in addition to controlled hypotension. Five days after, the animals were anaesthetized with urethane and the brain was fixed, sectioned and stained with hematoxylin-eosin to investigate histological damage. MSC did not fully protect against ischemic damage, as the number of viable neurons in this group was lower than in normal (sham-operated) rats. However, in MSC-treated rats the number of viable CA1 pyramidal neurons was significally higher than in rats that had been subjected to ischemia but not treated with MSC. We conclude that intravenous administration of MSC after transient global ischemia reduces hippocampal damage.
Study of Catalytic Hydrogenation and Methanol Addition to α-Methylene-γ-Lactone of Eremanthine Derivatives
Authors: Alves José C. F.
Published: December 2010

The sesquiterpene lactones guaia-1(10),11(13)-dieno-4α-hydroxy,9α-acetyl-15-iodine-12,6α-lactone (2), guaia-1(10),4(15),11(13)-trieno-9α-hydroxy-12,6α-lactone (3), (11S)-guaia-4(15),10(14)-dieno-9α-hydroxy-13-methoxy-12,6α-lactone (4), (11S)-guai-1(10)-eno-4α,9α-dihydroxy-13-methoxy-12,6α-lactone (5), and guaia-1(10),11(13)-dieno-4α,9α-dihydroxy-15-iodine-12,6α-lactone (6) were previously obtained starting from the natural product eremanthine (1). In this paper we report the catalytic hydrogenation reactions of allylic derivatives 2–5 and the methanol addition to α-methylene-γ-lactone of the iodohydrin 6.
Browder's Fixed Point Theorem and Some Interesting Results in Intuitionistic Fuzzy Normed Spaces
Authors: Cancan M
Published: December 2010

We define and study Browder's fixed point theorem and relation between an intuitionistic fuzzy convex normed space and a strong intuitionistic fuzzy uniformly convex normed space. Also, we give an example to show that uniformly convex normed space does not imply strongly intuitionistic fuzzy uniformly convex.
Vitamin D Status Is Not Associated with Outcomes of Experimentally-Induced Muscle Weakness and Pain in Young, Healthy Volunteers
Authors: Ring Susan M. , Dannecker Erin A. , Peterson Catherine A.
Published: December 2010

Vitamin D receptors have been identified in skeletal muscle; and symptoms of vitamin D deficiency include muscle weakness and pain. Moreover, increased serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25(OH)D) concentrations have been associated with improved muscle function. To further clarify the importance of vitamin D to muscle, we examined the association between vitamin D status and exercise-induced muscle pain and weakness in healthy people. Muscle damage to the elbow flexors was induced with eccentric exercise (EE) in 48 individuals (22.5 ± 3.2 yrs). Muscle pain ratings following unloaded movement and peak isometric force (IF) were collected before EE and for 4 days post-EE. Linear regression was used to determine if serum 25(OH)D was a predictor of any outcome. In males,R2-values from 0.48 to 1.00.R2for IF ranged from 0 to 0.02 andP-values from 0.48 to 1.00. In females,R2for pain ratings ranged from 0.01 to 0.11 andP-values from 0.14 to 0.59.R2for IF ranged from 0 to 0.04 andP-values from 0.41 to 0.90. In conclusion, vitamin D status did not predict muscle pain or strength after EE-induced muscle damage in young healthy men and women.
Applications of Compact Laser-Driven EUV/XUV Plasma Sources
Authors: Bayer Armin , Barkusky Frank , Döring Stefan , Großmann Peter , Mann Klaus
Published: December 2010

We present an overview on the EUV/XUV activities of the Laser-Laboratorium Göttingen based on table-top laser-produced plasma (LPP) sources. As target materials, gaseous jets of noble gases or solid Gold are employed. In order to obtain high EUV fluence, a Schwarzschild objective consisting of two spherical mirrors with Mo/Si multilayer coatings is adapted to the source. By demagnified (10x) imaging of the Au plasma, an EUV spot with a maximum energy density of ∼1.3 J/cm2 is generated (3 μm diameter, pulse duration 8.8 ns). First applications of this system reveal its potential for high-resolution modification and direct structuring of solid surfaces. Additionally, an EUV/XUV setup for structural analysis was developed. Using a gas puff target combined with a grazing incidence optics (Kirkpatrick-Baez arrangement), it offers the possibility to perform angular resolved reflectivity, diffraction, and scattering experiments. For chemical analysis of various samples, an NEXAFS setup was built, based on gaseous Krypton as a broadband emitter in the water-window range around the carbon K-edge (4.4 nm). Here, proof-of-principle for NEXAFS with lab-scaled XUV sources is given on polyimide as a reference.
The Genome Sequence ofMethanohalophilus mahiiSLPTReveals Differences in the Energy Metabolism among Members of theMethanosarcinaceaeInhabiting Freshwater and Saline Environments
Authors: Spring Stefan , Scheuner Carmen , Lapidus Alla , Lucas Susan , Glavina Del Rio Tijana , Tice Hope , Copeland Alex , Cheng Jan-Fang , Chen Feng , Nolan Matt , Saunders Elizabeth , Pitluck Sam , Liolios Konstantinos , Ivanova Natalia , Mavromatis Konstantinos , Lykidis Athanasios , Pati Amrita , Chen Amy , Palaniappan Krishna , Land Miriam , Hauser Loren , Chang Yun-Juan , Jeffries Cynthia D. , Goodwin Lynne , Detter John C. , Brettin Thomas , Rohde Manfred , Göker Markus , Woyke Tanja , Bristow Jim , Eisen Jonathan A. , Markowitz Victor , Hugenholtz Philip , Kyrpides Nikos C. , Klenk Hans-Peter
Published: December 2010

Methanohalophilus mahiiis the type species of the genusMethanohalophilus, which currently comprises three distinct species with validly published names.Mhp. mahiirepresents moderately halophilic methanogenic archaea with a strictly methylotrophic metabolism. The type strain SLPTwas isolated from hypersaline sediments collected from the southern arm of Great Salt Lake, Utah. Here we describe the features of this organism, together with the complete genome sequence and annotation. The 2,012,424 bp genome is a single replicon with 2032 protein-coding and 63 RNA genes and part of theGenomic Encyclopedia of Bacteria and Archaeaproject. A comparison of the reconstructed energy metabolism in the halophilic speciesMhp. mahiiwith other representatives of theMethanosarcinaceaereveals some interesting differences to freshwater species.
Klippel‐Trenaunay Syndrome and Pregnancy
Authors: Güngor Gündoğan Tuğba , Jacquemyn Y.
Published: December 2010

Klippel‐Trenaunay syndrome is a rare congenital vascular disorder, and only few cases have been described in pregnancy. We describe two cases, in one patient without complications, the other patient developed postpartum deep venous thrombosis.
Nasal Birth Trauma: A Review of Appropriate Treatment
Authors: Cashman E. C. , Farrell Terence , Shandilya M.
Published: December 2010

The aetiology of nasal deformity has frequently included birth trauma. There is no consensus in the literature as to whether nasal surgery, in the form of closed reduction, is indicated in neonates. The majority of studies in the literature that advocate intervention have inadequate followup periods and there is a paucity of evidence for the adverse effects of conservative management. This case highlights the therapeutic dilemma posed by such nasal injuries in the neonate and, to the best of the authors' knowledge, at the time of writing, represents the earliest reported case in the literature of nasal deformity in the neonate. The term nasal deformity is used to denote deformity of the nasal pyramid, soft tissue, and septum. Three main aspects of neonatal nasal deformity are addressed including, firstly, if nasal deformity at birth needs to be addressed, secondly, if left unaltered, what the long-term effects are and, finally, if intervention alters the normal course of midfacial development.
Stem Cells Grown in Osteogenic Medium on PLGA, PLGA/HA, and Titanium Scaffolds for Surgical Applications
Authors: Asti Annalia , Gastaldi Giulia , Dorati Rossella , Saino Enrica , Conti Bice , Visai Livia , Benazzo Francesco
Published: December 2010

Pluripotent adipose tissue‐derived stem cells (hASCs) can differentiate into various mesodermal cell types such as osteoblasts, chondroblasts, and myoblasts. We isolated hASCs from subcutaneous adipose tissue during orthopaedic surgery and induced the osteogenic differentiation for 28 days on three different synthetic scaffolds such as polylactide‐co‐glycolide (PLGA), polylactide‐co‐glycolide/hydroxyapatite (PLGA/HA), and trabecular titanium scaffolds (Ti6Al4V). Pore size can influence certain criteria such as cell attachment, infiltration, and vascularization. The aim of this study was to investigate the performance of PLGA and PLGA/HA scaffolds with a higher porosity, ranging between 75% and 84%, with respect to Ti scaffolds but with smaller pore size, seeded with hASCs to develop a model that could be used in the treatment of bone defects and fractures. Osteogenesis was assessed by ELISA quantitation of extracellular matrix protein expression, von Kossa staining, X‐ray microanalysis, and scanning electron microscopy. The higher amount of protein matrix on the Ti scaffold with respect to PLGA and PLGA/HA leads to the conclusion that not only the type of material but the structure significantly affects cell proliferation.
Propylthiouracil-Induced Acute Liver Failure: Role of Liver Transplantation
Authors: Carrion Andres F. , Czul Frank , Arosemena Leopoldo R. , Selvaggi Gennaro , Garcia Monica T. , Tekin Akin , Tzakis Andreas G. , Martin Paul , Ghanta Ravi K.
Published: December 2010

Propylthiouracil- (PTU-) induced hepatotoxicity is rare but potentially lethal with a spectrum of liver injury ranging from asymptomatic elevation of transaminases to fulminant hepatic failure and death. We describe two cases of acute hepatic failure due to PTU that required liver transplantation. Differences in the clinical presentation, histological characteristics, and posttransplant management are described as well as alternative therapeutic options. Frequent monitoring for PTU-induced hepatic dysfunction is strongly advised because timely discontinuation of this drug and implementation of noninvasive therapeutic interventions may prevent progression to liver failure or even death.
Subcutaneous Zygomycosis Due to Basidiobolus ranarum: A Case Report from Maharastra, India
Authors: Anand Mani , Deshmukh Sanjay D. , Pande Dilip P. , Naik Suresh , Ghadage Dhyaneshwari P.
Published: December 2010

Entomophthoromycosis is a rare entity. We hereby report a case of entomophthoromycosis in a three-year-old Asian child who presented with a painless, nontender, rapidly increasing large swelling on the thigh of six months duration, which was initially misdiagnosed as a soft tissue tumor and resected. The cause of misleading diagnosis was rapid growth of the lesion in a short duration of time, indicating the possibility of a tumor. Histopathological examination revealed an inflammatory lesion with aseptate fungal hyphae and the characteristic Splendore-Hoeppli phenomenon. Microbiological examination identified the fungus as Basidiobolus ranarum. Complete excision of the lesion followed by antifungal therapy was associated with complete recovery. Entomophthoromycosis should be considered early when children from endemic areas present with unusual, rapid-growing lesions of the subcutaneous region. In order to emphasize tumor-like presentation of zygomycosis, we are presenting this case.
Iterative Algorithms with Variable Coefficients for Multivalued Generalized "Equation missing" -Hemicontractive Mappings without Generalized Lipschitz Assumption
Authors: Ge Ci-Shui
Published: December 2010

We introduce and study some new Ishikawa-type iterative algorithms with variable coefficients for multivalued generalized "Equation missing"-hemicontractive mappings. Several new fixed-point theorems for multivalued generalized "Equation missing"-hemicontractive mappings without generalized Lipschitz assumption are established in "Equation missing"-uniformly smooth real Banach spaces. A result for multivalued generalized "Equation missing"-hemicontractive mappings with bounded range is obtained in uniformly smooth real Banach spaces. As applications, several theorems for multivalued generalized "Equation missing"-hemiaccretive mapping equations are given.
Trajectory Generation Model-Based IMM Tracking for Safe Driving in Intersection Scenario
Authors: Zhou Tingting , Li Ming , Mai Xiaoming , Wang Qi , Liu Fang , Li Qingquan
Published: December 2010

Tracking the actions of vehicles at crossroads and planning safe trajectories will be an effective method to reduce the rate of traffic accident at intersections. It is to resolve the problem of the abrupt change because of the existence of drivers' voluntary choices. In this paper, we make approach of an improved IMM tracking method based on trajectory generation, abstracted by trajectory generation algorithm, to improve this situation. Because of the similarity between human-driving trajectory and programming trajectory which is generated by trajectory-generated algorithm, the improved IMM method performs well in tracking moving vehicles with some sudden changes of its movement. A set of data is collected for experiments when an object vehicle takes a sudden left turn in intersection scenario. To compare the experiment results between IMM method with trajectory generation model and the one without, tracking error of the former decreases by 75% in particular scenario.
FieldTrip: Open Source Software for Advanced Analysis of MEG, EEG, and Invasive Electrophysiological Data
Authors: Oostenveld Robert , Fries Pascal , Maris Eric , Schoffelen Jan-Mathijs
Published: December 2010

This paper describes FieldTrip, an open source software package that we developed for the analysis of MEG, EEG, and other electrophysiological data. The software is implemented as a MATLAB toolbox and includes a complete set of consistent and user-friendly high-level functions that allow experimental neuroscientists to analyze experimental data. It includes algorithms for simple and advanced analysis, such as time-frequency analysis using multitapers, source reconstruction using dipoles, distributed sources and beamformers, connectivity analysis, and nonparametric statistical permutation tests at the channel and source level. The implementation as toolbox allows the user to perform elaborate and structured analyses of large data sets using the MATLAB command line and batch scripting. Furthermore, users and developers can easily extend the functionality and implement new algorithms. The modular design facilitates the reuse in other software packages.
Renal Involvement in Preeclampsia: Similarities to VEGF Ablation Therapy
Authors: Müller-Deile Janina , Schiffer Mario
Published: December 2010

Glomerular VEGF expression is critical for the maintenance and function of an intact filtration barrier. Alterations in glomerular VEGF bioavailability result in endothelial as well as in podocyte damage. Renal involvement in preeclampsia includes proteinuria, podocyturia, elevated blood pressure, edema, glomerular capillary endotheliosis, and thrombotic microangiopathy. At least the renal signs, symptoms, and other evidence can sufficiently be explained by reduced VEGF levels. The aim of this paper was to summarize our pathophysiological understanding of the renal involvement of preeclampsia and point out similarities to the renal side effects of VEGF-ablation therapy.
Assortativity and the Probability of Epidemic Extinction: A Case Study of Pandemic Influenza A (H1N1-2009)
Authors: Nishiura Hiroshi , Cook Alex R. , Cowling Benjamin J.
Published: December 2010

Unlike local transmission of pandemic influenza A (H1N1-2009), which was frequently driven by school children, most cases identified in long-distance intranational and international travelers have been adults. The present study examines the relationship between the probability of temporary extinction and the age-dependent next-generation matrix, focusing on the impact of assortativity. Preferred mixing captures as a good approximation the assortativity of a heterogeneously mixing population. We show that the contribution of a nonmaintenance host (i.e., a host type which cannot sustain transmission on its own) to the risk of a major epidemic is greatly diminished as mixing patterns become more assortative, and in such a scenario, a higher proportion of non-maintenance hosts among index cases elevates the probability of extinction. Despite the presence of various other epidemiological factors that undoubtedly influenced the delay between first importations and the subsequent epidemic, these results suggest that the dominance of adults among imported cases represents one of the possible factors explaining the delays in geographic spread observed during the recent pandemic.
An ESL Approach for Energy Consumption Analysis of Cache Memories in SoC Platforms
Authors: Silva-Filho Abel G. , Cordeiro Filipe R. , Araújo Cristiano C. , Sarmento Adriano , Gomes Millena , Barros Edna , Lima Manoel E.
Published: December 2010

The design of complex circuits as SoCs presents two great challenges to designers. One is the speeding up of system functionality modeling and the second is the implementation of the system in an architecture that meets performance and power consumption requirements. Thus, developing new high-level specification mechanisms for the reduction of the design effort with automatic architecture exploration is a necessity. This paper proposes an Electronic-System-Level (ESL) approach for system modeling and cache energy consumption analysis of SoCs called PCacheEnergyAnalyzer. It uses as entry a high-level UML-2.0 profile model of the system and it generates a simulation model of a multicore platform that can be analyzed for cache tuning. PCacheEnergyAnalyzer performs static/dynamic energy consumption analysis of caches on platforms that may have different processors. Architecture exploration is achieved by letting designers choose different processors for platform generation and different mechanisms for cache optimization. PCacheEnergyAnalyzer has been validated with several applications of Mibench, Mediabench, and PowerStone benchmarks, and results show that it provides analysis with reduced simulation effort.
Creating Effective Partnerships in Ecosystem-Based Management: A Culture of Science and Management
Authors: Wiener Carlie S. , Rivera Malia A. J. , Toonen Robert J. , Leong Jo-Ann C. , Kosaki Randall K. , Karl Stephen , Keller Kaylene , Johnson Hoku
Published: December 2010

An ecosystem-based management research partnership between the Hawai‘i Institute of Marine Biology and Office of National Marine Sanctuaries, specifically with the Northwestern Hawaiian Islands Coral Reef Ecosystem Reserve and, later, the Papahānaumokuākea Marine National Monument, provides a case study to analyze integration of scientific research into management plans through collaborative communications. Ecosystem-based management seeks input from disparate stakeholders and requires effective communication systems for the public, science, and management partners that bypass differences in organizational culture and communication styles. Here, we examine a successful partnership within the framework of ecosystem-based management to survey and evaluate cultural differences, understand what facilitates collaborative communication, highlight factors that impede a successful partnership, and identify areas for improvement. Effective communication has been achieved through an analysis of the organizations cultures and structures to better define communication links. Although specific differences were noted in organization and style, successful integration was accomplished through techniques such as the development of symposia and semiannual reports. This paper will explore the organizational culture analysis and structure evaluation, which are components of a larger study. This science management integration project is an example of how organizational analysis can lead to recommendations for improved communication and integration of science and management.