bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Pespectivas y planteamientos de una poética: reflexiones sobre poesía y ficción en el comentario a la Divina Comedia de Fernández de Villegas
Authors: Hamlin Cinthia M.
Published: January 2013

En 1515 se difunde en Burgos la primera traducción impresa de la Divina Comedia, edición que contaba con una exhaustiva glosa rodeando cada copla en la que Pedro Fernández de Villegas traducía y amplificaba, a su vez, el “Comento sopra la Comedia” de Landino (1481). En el siguiente trabajo analizaremos las reflexiones sobre poesía y ficción presentes en el comentario, con el objetivo de ponerlas en relación, por un lado, con el Prólogo de Landino y, por otro, con algunas de las concepciones poéticas más importantes del Humanismo peninsular. Adelantamos a manera de conclusión que la particular situación enunciativa desde la que escribe el arcediano, a saber, su calidad de religioso y literato de corte, le confiere a su texto un valor indiscutible en cuanto exponente de las problemáticas culturales más apremiantes del período, en especial la tensión entre la Escolástica y el Humanismo, que su mismo texto, en sus posturas un tanto contradictorias, encarna. Sin embargo, su valor mayor radica en la vital importancia que presenta para la historia de las reflexiones literarias en la Península, pues al mismo tiempo que releva y reformula toda la serie de reflexiones poéticas y tópicos literarios que encuentra en su tradición, presenta actitudes que, a comienzos del siglo XVI, resultan novedosas.
Honra, fama y ejemplaridad en el Poema de Alfonso Onceno
Authors: Janin Erica
Published: January 2013

La hipótesis que se sostiene en este estudio es que, mediante el uso particular que hay en el Poema de Alfonso Onceno, en relación a los poemas épicos de origen castellano del siglo anterior, de los conceptos de “honor”, “honra” y “fama”, el autor busca hacer de Alfonso un rey ejemplar y promover el ideal de reconquista.
La leyenda de los Siete infantes de Salas y su enseñanza sobre solidaridad linajística
Authors: Martin Georges
Published: January 2013

La semántica de la leyenda de los siete infantes de Salas está regida en su lógica narrativa profunda por una enseñanza tocante a solidaridad linajística. Ésta prescribe lo que debe ser el papel del tío materno, afirma la primacía de la obligación debida a la consanguinidad en caso de que ésta entre en conflicto con la obligación debida a la alianza y fija una jerarquía general de las relaciones de parentesco en que la filiación y la consanguinidad están por encima de la alianza.
Le Mexique central à travers le Codex Xolotl et Alva Ixtlilxochitl : entre l’espace préhispanique et l’écriture coloniale
Authors: Lesbre Patrick
Published: January 2013

Les planches du Codex Xolotl constituent une référence majeure pour l’histoire préhispanique du Mexique central. On y trouve l’espace mis en glyphes au moyen de conventions pictographiques, mais aussi la représentation d’un espace suprarégional pouvant correspondre, éventuellement, à l’empire chichimèque. Les scribes indiens utilisent la distorsion de l’espace pour écrire l’histoire : l’espace peut être surdimensionné, rapproché ou dupliqué. Cet espace est mis en mots avec les gloses alphabétiques et les premiers chroniqueurs indiens ou métis. Alva Ixtlilxochitl se l’appropriera à sa façon. On y relève à la fois une précision géographique stupéfiante et une possible censure de certains espaces sacrés.
Le Pacifique vu du Pérou (1567-1606)
Authors: Bernand Carmen
Published: January 2013

Les trois grandes expéditions dans l’Océan Pacifique entreprises par les Espagnols dans la seconde moitié du XVIe siècle à partir du Pérou, illustrent les modalités d’appréhension et d’écriture d’un espace immense, qui sera parcouru, répertorié et décrit, sans être pour autant maîtrisé. De la quête des îles fabuleuses du roi Salomon par Alvaro de Mendaña et Sarmiento de Gamboa, à la vision utopique et crépusculaire de Pedro de Quirós, l’exploration des archipels du « cinquième continent » se heurtera à la puissante logique des circuits d’échanges des insulaires dans laquelle les Européens ne pourront pas s’insérer.
Deficiency in Hematopoietic Phosphatase Ptpn6/Shp1 Hyperactivates the Innate Immune System and Impairs Control of Bacterial Infections in Zebrafish Embryos
Authors: Kanwal Zakia , Zakrzewska Anna , den Hertog Jeroen , Spaink Herman P. , Schaaf Marcel J. M. , Meijer Annemarie H.
Published: January 2013

Deficiency in Src homology region 2 domain-containing phosphatase 1/protein tyrosine phosphatase nonreceptor type 6 (SHP1/PTPN6) is linked with chronic inflammatory diseases and hematological malignancies in humans. In this study, we exploited the embryonic and larval stages of zebrafish (Danio rerio) as an animal model to study ptpn6 function in the sole context of innate immunity. We show that ptpn6 knockdown induces a spontaneous inflammation-associated phenotype at the late larval stage. Surprisingly, glucocorticoid treatment did not suppress inflammation under ptpn6 knockdown conditions but further enhanced leukocyte infiltration and proinflammatory gene expression. Experiments in a germ-free environment showed that the late larval phenotype was microbe independent. When ptpn6 knockdown embryos were challenged with Salmonella typhimurium or Mycobacterium marinum at earlier stages of development, the innate immune system was hyperactivated to a contraproductive level that impaired the control of these pathogenic bacteria. Transcriptome analysis demonstrated that Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes pathways related to pathogen recognition and cytokine signaling were significantly enriched under these conditions, suggesting that ptpn6 functions as a negative regulator that imposes a tight control over the level of innate immune response activation during infection. In contrast to the hyperinduction of proinflammatory cytokine genes under ptpn6 knockdown conditions, anti-inflammatory il10 expression was not hyperinduced. These results support that ptpn6 has a crucial regulatory function in preventing host-detrimental effects of inflammation and is essential for a successful defense mechanism against invading microbes.
Genome-Wide Analyses of Amphioxus MicroRNAs Reveal an Immune Regulation via miR-92d Targeting C3
Authors: Yang Rirong , Zheng Tingting , Cai Xingsheng , Yu Yingcai , Yu Cuiling , Guo Lei , Huang Shengfeng , Zhu Wei , Zhu Ruimin , Yan Qingyu , Ren Zhenghua , Chen Shangwu , Xu Anlong
Published: January 2013

Recently, amphioxus has served as a model for studying the origin and evolution of vertebrate immunity. However, little is known about how microRNAs (miRNAs) are involved in the immune defense in amphioxus. In this article, we present a systematic study of amphioxus miRNAs in the acute-phase response to bacterial infection; miR-92d was found to regulate the complement pathway in this basal chordate. We identified all 155 possible miRNAs present in the amphioxus Branchiostoma belcheri genome by bioinformatics analyses, including 57 newly identified miRNAs (called bbe-miRNAs), and characterized the miRNA expression pattern. Four miRNAs (bbe-miR-7, bbe-miR-4868a, bbe-miR-2065, and bbe-miR-34b) were upregulated and bbe-miR-92d was downregulated under the challenge of both Vibrio anguillarum and Staphylococcus aureus bacteria. We further predicted miRNA targets and identified mRNA targets of immune-related miRNA using the hybrid PCR method. We propose that miR-92d regulates the complement pathway through targeting C3 for controlling the acute immune response to bacterial infections. This study provides evidence for the complex immune regulation of miRNAs in the acute-phase response in basal chordates.
A Novel Role for IL-27 in Mediating the Survival of Activated Mouse CD4 T Lymphocytes
Authors: Kim Gisen , Shinnakasu Ryo , Saris Christiaan J. M. , Cheroutre Hilde , Kronenberg Mitchell
Published: January 2013

IL-27, an IL-12 family cytokine, has pleiotropic functions in the differentiation and expansion of CD4+ T cell subsets. In this study, we discovered a novel function of IL-27. CD4+CD45RBhigh T cells from mice deficient for the α-chain of IL-27 receptor failed to induce colitis in Rag−/− recipients, because of an inability of activated donor cells to survive. Interestingly, IL-27 was indispensable for the prevention of colitis by regulatory T cells, also because of a defect in long-term cell survival. IL-27 affected the survival of activated T lymphocytes, rather than promoting cell proliferation, by inhibiting Fas-mediated activation-induced T cell death, acting through the STAT3 signaling pathway. The addition of IL-27 during activation resulted in an increased cell number, which was correlated with decreased activation of both caspases 3 and 8. This prosurvival effect was attributed to downregulation of FasL and to the induction of the antiapoptotic protein cFLIP. Although activation induced cell death is an important mechanism for the maintenance of immunological homeostasis, protection of lymphocytes from excessive cell death is essential for effective immunity. Our data indicate that IL-27 has a crucial role in the inhibition of activation-induced cell death, thereby permitting Ag-driven T cell expansion.
Suppression of Inflammatory Responses during Myelin Oligodendrocyte Glycoprotein–Induced Experimental Autoimmune Encephalomyelitis Is Regulated by AKT3 Signaling
Authors: Tsiperson Vladislav , Gruber Ross C. , Goldberg Michael F. , Jordan Ayana , Weinger Jason G. , Macian Fernando , Shafit-Zagardo Bridget
Published: January 2013

AKT3, a member of the serine/threonine kinase AKT family, is involved in a variety of biologic processes. AKT3 is expressed in immune cells and is the major AKT isoform in the CNS representing 30% of the total AKT expressed in spinal cord, and 50% in the brain. Myelin-oligodendrocyte glycoprotein–induced experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE) is a mouse model in which lymphocytes and monocytes enter the CNS, resulting in inflammation, demyelination, and axonal injury. We hypothesized that during EAE, deletion of AKT3 would negatively affect the CNS of AKT3−/− mice, making them more susceptible to CNS damage. During acute EAE, AKT3−/−mice were more severely affected than wild type (WT) mice. Evaluation of spinal cords showed that during acute and chronic disease, AKT3−/− spinal cords had more demyelination compared with WT spinal cords. Quantitative RT-PCR determined higher levels of IL-2, IL-17, and IFN-γ mRNA in spinal cords from AKT3−/− mice than WT. Experiments using bone marrow chimeras demonstrated that AKT3−/− mice receiving AKT3-deficient bone marrow cells had elevated clinical scores relative to control WT mice reconstituted with WT cells, indicating that altered function of both CNS cells and bone marrow–derived immune cells contributed to the phenotype. Immunohistochemical analysis revealed decreased numbers of Foxp3+ regulatory T cells in the spinal cord of AKT3−/− mice compared with WT mice, whereas in vitro suppression assays showed that AKT3-deficient Th cells were less susceptible to regulatory T cell–mediated suppression than their WT counterparts. These results indicate that AKT3 signaling contributes to the protection of mice against EAE.
Nonredundant Roles of Src-Family Kinases and Syk in the Initiation of B-Cell Antigen Receptor Signaling
Authors: Stepanek Ondrej , Draber Peter , Drobek Ales , Horejsi Vaclav , Brdicka Tomas
Published: January 2013

When a BCR on a mature B cell is engaged by its ligand, the cell becomes activated, and the Ab-mediated immune response can be triggered. The initiation of BCR signaling is orchestrated by kinases of the Src and Syk families. However, the proximal BCR-induced phosphorylation remains incompletely understood. According to a model of sequential activation of kinases, Syk acts downstream of Src family kinases (SFKs). In addition, signaling independent of SFKs and initiated by Syk has been proposed. Both hypotheses lack sufficient evidence from relevant B cell models, mainly because of the redundancy of Src family members and the importance of BCR signaling for B cell development. We addressed this issue by analyzing controlled BCR triggering ex vivo on primary murine B cells and on murine and chicken B cell lines. Chemical and Csk-based genetic inhibitor treatments revealed that SFKs are required for signal initiation and Syk activation. In addition, ligand and anti-BCR Ab–induced signaling differ in their sensitivity to the inhibition of SFKs.
Studies of Lymphocyte Reconstitution in a Humanized Mouse Model Reveal a Requirement of T Cells for Human B Cell Maturation
Authors: Lang Julie , Kelly Margot , Freed Brian M. , McCarter Martin D. , Kedl Ross M. , Torres Raul M. , Pelanda Roberta
Published: January 2013

The hematopoietic humanized mouse (hu-mouse) model is a powerful resource to study and manipulate the human immune system. However, a major and recurrent issue with this model has been the poor maturation of B cells that fail to progress beyond the transitional B cell stage. Of interest, a similar problem has been reported in transplant patients who receive cord blood stem cells. In this study, we characterize the development of human B and T cells in the lymph nodes (LNs) and spleen of BALB/c-Rag2nullIl2rγnull hu-mice. We find a dominant population of immature B cells in the blood and spleen early, followed by a population of human T cells, coincident with the detection of LNs. Notably, in older mice we observe a major population of mature B cells in LNs and in the spleens of mice with higher T cell frequencies. Moreover, we demonstrate that T cells are necessary for B cell maturation, as introduction of autologous human T cells expedites the appearance of mature B cells, whereas in vivo depletion of T cells retards B cell maturation. The presence of the mature B cell population correlates with enhanced IgG and Ag-specific responses to both T cell–dependent and T cell–independent challenges, indicating their functionality. These findings enhance our understanding of human B cell development, provide increased details of the reconstitution dynamics of hu-mice, and validate the use of this animal model to study mechanisms and treatments for the similar delay of functional B cells associated with cord blood transplantations.
Requirement of Inducible Nitric Oxide Synthase for Skeletal Muscle Regeneration after Acute Damage
Authors: Rigamonti Elena , Touvier Thierry , Clementi Emilio , Manfredi Angelo A. , Brunelli Silvia , Rovere-Querini Patrizia
Published: January 2013

Adult skeletal muscle regeneration results from activation, proliferation, and fusion of muscle stem cells, such as myogenic precursor cells. Macrophages are consistently present in regenerating skeletal muscles and participate into the repair process. The signals involved in the cross-talk between various macrophage populations and myogenic precursor cells have been only partially identified. In this study, we show a key role of inducible NO synthase (iNOS), expressed by classically activated macrophages in the healing of skeletal muscle. We found that, after sterile injury, iNOS expression is required for effective regeneration of the tissue, as myogenic precursor cells in the muscle of injured iNOS−/− mice fail to proliferate and differentiate. We also found that iNOS modulates inflammatory cell recruitment: damaged muscles of iNOS−/− animals express significantly higher levels of chemokines such as MIP2, MCP1, MIP-1α, and MCP1, and display more infiltrating neutrophils after injury and a persistence of macrophages at later time points. Finally, we found that iNOS expression in the injured muscle is restricted to infiltrating macrophages. To our knowledge, these data thus provide the first evidence that iNOS expression by infiltrating macrophages contributes to muscle regeneration, revealing a novel mechanism of inflammation-dependent muscle healing.
Robust Stability of Monetary Policy Rules under Adaptive Learning
Authors: Gaus Eric
Published: January 2013

Recent research has explored how minor changes in expectation formation can change the stability properties of a model (; ). This article builds on this research by examining an economy subject to a variety of monetary policy rules under an endogenous learning algorithm proposed by . The results indicate that operational versions of optimal discretionary rules are not robustly stable, as in . In addition, commitment rules are not robust to minor changes in expectational structure and parameter values.
Introduction: Advances in the Study of the Economics of Terrorism
Authors: Sandler Todd
Published: January 2013

Although the study of the economics of terrorism dates back to 1978, work on this topic was sporadic until 2001. Since the four hijackings on September 11, 2001, there have been many contributions both theoretical and empirical in this area of study. The purpose of this article is twofold: (i) to orient the reader to this area of study, and (ii) to introduce the five articles of this special symposium. These articles address diverse aspects of the economics of terrorism including the demise of terrorist groups, natural disasters and terrorism, cost of living and terrorism, terrorism and stock‐bond returns, and terrorism and piracy.
Comparative Evaluation of the Fracture Resistance of Teeth prepared with Rotary System, filled with single Cone Gutta-percha and Laterally Condensed with Zinc Oxide Eugenol and Resin based (AH26) Sealers to that of Resilon
Authors: Reddy P Manoranjan , Vishwanathan P Kashi , Muliyar Sabir , Chavan Prakash , Reddy T Praveen Kumar , Nilawar Sanjay
Published: January 2013

Aim and objective

To compare the fracture resistance of teeth prepared with rotary system and filled with single cone guttapercha followed by lateral condensation with different sealers like zinc oxide eugenol and resin based (AH26) to that of resilon.

Materials and methods

A total number of 70 extracted intact human permanent maxillary incisors were selected. All prepared samples were divided into one control group (n = 10) and three experimental groups (n = 20 per group). Group 1 control. This group received no obturation; the root canal opening was sealed with a temporary filling material (Cavit, Premier Dental Products, Plymouth Meeting, PA) Group 2: Gutta-Percha and zinc oxide Eugenol sealer. Group 3: Gutta-Percha and AH26 sealer. (DiaDent, Korea) dipped in AH26 sealer. Group 4: Resilon cones and RealSeal Resin Sealer. Obturation was accomplished using a 0.06 taper size 40 gutta-percha master point. All the root samples were stored in 100% humidity at 37°C for 2 weeks to allow the sealer to set completely. The root samples were then prepared for mechanical testing and the data was recorded and analyzed statistically.

Results

One-way ANOVA and Post hoc test (Duncan Multiple range test) were employed to determine possible statistical variation among the groups tested in this study. The force for group 2 was significantly greater than that for the control group 1 (no obturation). The force for group 3 was significantly greater than that for group 2. The force for group 4 was significantly greater than that for group 3. All other groupwise comparisons were not significant at 5% level. Group 4 seemed to have the greatest force among the three groups of interest in the study.

Conclusion

Root canals filled with Resilon increased the in vitro resistance of single canal extracted teeth compared to other experimental groups. The mean fracture resistance value for the experimental groups in ascending order was as follows: Root canals instrumented but not filled, filled with gutta-percha and zinc oxide eugenol sealer, filled with gutta-percha and AH26 sealer and filled with Resilon.

Clinical significance

Resilon is a promising material for reinforcement of endodontically treated teeth.

How to cite this article

Vishwanathan PK, Muliyar S, Chavan P, Reddy PM, Reddy TPK, Nilawar S. Comparative Evaluation of the Fracture Resistance of Teeth prepared with Rotary System, filled with single Cone Gutta-percha and Laterally Condensed with Zinc Oxide Eugenol and Resin based (AH26) Sealers to that of Resilon. J Contemp Dent Pract 2012;13(6):773-781.
Heavy Metal Pollution in the Receiving Environment of the University of Dar Es Salaam Waste Stabilization Ponds
Authors: Nziku Adrehem J. , Namkinga Lucy
Published: January 2013

The aim of this study was to examine the availability, concentration levels and bioaccumulation of heavy metals namely; Mercury (Hg), Cadmium (Cd), Lead (Pb), Zinc (Zn) and Molybdenum (Mo) in the waste Stabilization Ponds of the University of Dar es Salaam. A total of 135 samples were analyzed, out of which 27 were samples of water, 27 of sediments and 81 samples of fish tissues. Two types of fishes were used namely; Oreochromis niloticus and Clarias gariepinus. Heavy metal concentration varied significantly between water, sediment, fish species and tissues. Hg, Cd, Zn and Mo concentrations in water and sediment were within WHO safe limits. However, Pb in water and Cd, Pb and Zn concentrations in sediments were found to be above WHO standards (p<0.05). Concentration levels for Cd, Pb and Zn were above acceptable levels in Oreochromis niloticus while Hg was found to be within safe limits in both fish species (p<0.05). Molybdenum was found to be below the detection limits in Oreochromis niloticus. While Cd was not detected, Pb, Zn and Mo were found highly accumulated in Clarias gariepinus (p<0.05). Oreochromis niloticus accumulated metals in the increasing order from dorsal muscles < gills < liver while Clarias gariepinus accumulated metals in the decreasing order from dorsal muscle < gills < liver.Public awareness on the dangers to which fish consumers from the site are exposed is highly suggested and purposeful mitigation measures of stopping all fishing activities in these sites is needed, also animal feeding around the ponds should be forbidden.
Changes of tumor infiltrating lymphocyte subtypes before and after neoadjuvant endocrine therapy in estrogen receptor-positive breast cancer patients – an immunohistochemical study of cd8+ and foxp3+ using double immunostaining with correlation to the pathobiological response of the patients
Authors: Chan Monica Sm , Wang Lin , Felizola Saulo Ja , Ueno Takayuki , Toi Masakazu , Loo W , Chow Louis Wc , Suzuki Takashi , Sasano Hironobu
Published: January 2013

Tumor-stromal interactions involve continuous crosstalk and interactions among different cell types and play pivotal roles in tumorigenesis, tumor development, disease progression, subsequent metastasis, and also tumor response to therapeutic agents. Tumor infiltrating lymphocytes (TILs) are important components of these tumor-stromal interactions. Specific TIL subtypes are known to be involved in the clinical course of individual patients. However, the status of TILs following endocrine therapy has not been studied in breast cancer patients. We evaluated the alterations of TIL subtypes in a cohort of East Asian patients with estrogen receptor-positive breast cancer during the course of neoadjuvant steroidal aromatase inhibitor (AI) therapy, using double immunohistochemical staining of CD8+ and T regulatory cells (Treg) or Foxp3+, yielding the CD8+/Treg ratio in individual patients. Changes in CD8+/Treg ratio before and after therapy were then correlated with pathobiological responses of individual patients based upon alterations of the Ki-67 labeling index (LI). A significant increase in the CD8+/Treg ratio was detected in responders (p=0.028) but not in non-responders, which may reflect the dynamic process in which the host immune response to tumor antigens changed in consequence of an interaction between tumor and stromal cells in its microenvironment following estrogen depletion caused by the AI. The CD8+/Treg ratio in breast cancer tissue can be a potential surrogate marker in surgical pathology specimens for predicting responses to neoadjuvant endocrine therapy, not only incorporating features of carcinoma cells as in Ki-67 LI but also those of adjacent stromal cells in the tumor microenvironment, especially in the early stage of treatment prior to any detectable clinical and/or histopathological changes.
Microwave Technology—Applications in Chemical Synthesis
Authors: Varma Rajender S.
Published: January 2013

Microwave heating, a unique heating technique is reviewed for expeditious chemical syntheses. Specifically, the solvent‐free reactions or reactions in benign media are convenient to perform and have advantages over the conventional heating protocols as summarized in the previous editions. A wide range of selective functional group transformations have been accomplished expeditiously and efficiently using a variety of supported reagents on mineral oxides as catalysts or in benign reaction media. Further scale‐up developments on such themes will go a long way in realizing the sustainable goals in the chemical arena including the synthesis of nanomaterials and nano‐catalysts. The major limitations for MW‐assisted reactions can be overcome by translating batch microwave chemistry to continuous flow domain wherein conventionally heated and suitably equipped fluidic flow devices may help produce meaningful amounts of chemical products in a continuous mode. This is especially true for the use of magnetic nano catalysis in flow chemistry which has a great potential to grow in this sustainable endeavor as the nanoparticle‐bound magnetic catalysts can be confined and at the same time agitated in a reactor by a rotating magnetic field, thus, avoiding potential problems of clogging membranes or filters that are commonly used as barriers for immobilized catalysts.
Microbial Fuel Cells
Authors: Roh Sung‐Hee , Woo Hee‐Gweon
Published: January 2013

Microbial fuel cells (MFCs) are a hybrid bioelectrochemical system, which converts biosubstrates directly into green electricity by effectively oxidizing them using bacteria under ambient temperature/pressure condition. The potential, developed between the bacterial metabolic activity and electron acceptor, was separated by a membrane manifesting bioelectricity generation. The achievable power output from MFCs has increased remarkably by modifying their system designs, such as optimization of the MFC configurations, their physical and chemical operating conditions, and their choice of biocatalyst. More recently, selecting the proper materials, such as the anode‐cathode electrodes and a proton exchange membrane (PEM), is one of the critical challenges for applications of MFC. The specific materials for each chamber used in MFC can affect the power density and Coulombic efficiency. Furthermore, the practical applications of MFC technologies include renewable electricity generation, wastewater treatment, biological oxygen demand (BOD) sensor, and implantable medical devices.
Sustainable Manufacturing
Authors: Santo Loredana , Davim J. Paulo
Published: January 2013

In recent years,
sustainable manufacturing
has received considerable attention as a solution to support the growth and expansion of the manufacturing industry, which has been accompanied by growing concerns about climate change, energy security, and scarcity of natural resources. Innovation is strongly required to improve environmental performance and to preserve production and jobs in the coming years. In this article, a definition of sustainable manufacturing is proposed as well as of sustainable development and eco‐innovation. Methodologies for the development of sustainable products and new approaches for environmentally sustainable manufacturing are introduced. Finally, two illustrative studies are discussed. The former is an innovative process for exhausted tire recycling, and the latter is dry machining or minimum quantity of lubricant (MQL) in metal‐fabricated products manufacturing.
Behavioral Modeling of Microwave Transistors
Authors: Pedro José Carlos
Published: January 2013

This article presents an overview of microwave transistors' behavioral modeling. It starts by introducing the concepts of behavioral modeling, framing them into the general theory of nonlinear system identification, to show afterward how these nonlinear system identification techniques can be used to generate technology‐independent models of arbitrary microwave devices. As it will be explained, such a process can be divided into two steps: model formulation and model extraction. Consequently, the article addresses first the methodology and the mathematical techniques required to select a particular model format. Then, it reviews briefly the measurement instruments necessary to extract the model parameters that convert a general model format into a particular mathematical representation of the desired device's input–output observable relationships.
Hybrid and Plug‐In Hybrid Electric Vehicles
Authors: Yang Yinye , Emadi Ali
Published: January 2013

Hybrid and plug‐in hybrid electric vehicles are vehicles that combine the use of both petroleum fuels and electricity as their energy sources to propel vehicles and power accessory systems. In general, they are more fuel efficient and environment friendly than conventional petroleum‐powered vehicles in the same class, while being more financially accessible and technically established than pure electric vehicles; thus, hybrid and plug‐in hybrid electric vehicles serve as significant players in the progress of vehicle electrifying transition and result in remarkable market influence in the automotive industry. This article introduces the fundamental concepts of hybrid electric vehicles and plug‐in hybrid electric vehicles, respectively. It gives an overview of the hybrid technologies, current development, benefits, and advantages that these two hybrids have achieved. Different categories and configurations are specified in each type in detail, while diverse operation modes and control strategies are analyzed and illustrated. In addition, parallel comparisons between hybrid electric vehicles, plug‐in hybrid electric vehicles, conventional vehicles, and electric vehicles are made throughout the article in terms of their similarities and differences. Also, the challenges surrounding the future development of hybrid and plug‐in hybrid electric vehicles are discussed at the end of the article.
Integrated and Embedded Passives
Authors: Ulrich Richard
Published: January 2013

The ability to integrate transistors into a common substrate started the microelectronics revolution half a century ago. In the past couple of decades, considerable research and development (R&D) efforts have been mounted to do the same for passive devices: resistors, capacitors, and inductors. The ability to integrate them into a circuit board instead of mounting them as individual components on the board's surfaces would provide benefits similar to that observed in integrated circuits (ICs): very low incremental cost per passive, the liberation of board surface area for ICs, improved performance for some, and shortened interconnect lengths. Today, a small fraction of passives in consumer devices is integrated in devices where size is critical. Small‐valued inductors are commonly integrated in cell phones because they require only metal patterning for fabrication. There are several commercial sources for resistor integration over a wide range of values. Choices for capacitor dielectrics are still limited, and there are no commercialized materials and methods for integrating anything above the smallest values of required capacitors. Work continues in all three areas. This article provides an overview of the basic science and technology of passive integration and the most attractive application areas.
Advanced Packaging of Optoelectronic Devices
Authors: Tang Zirong , Shi Tielin , Shi Frank G.
Published: January 2013

In recent years, the packaging technologies of advanced optoelectronics devices and systems have evolved rapidly to meet the fast‐growing industry of optoelectronics. However, packaging expense still accounts for a major portion of the overall cost of optoelectronics devices and systems. With the driving trend of higher power, smaller size, and higher reliability, many advanced packaging technologies are emerging. In this article, we present a comprehensive introduction of packaging design rules, advanced packaging materials, and packaging processes. Specific examples with state‐of‐art packaging methodologies are given for some typical devices, including high‐power, light‐emitting diodes; high‐power semiconductor lasers; liquid crystal displays; and fiber‐related optical devices. Insights on the technological development trend and philosophy are also discussed for advanced packaging of optoelectronic devices.
Molecularly Imprinted Polymer Grafted Porous Au‐Paper Electrode for an Microfluidic Electro‐Analytical Origami Device
Authors: Ge Lei , Wang Shoumei , Yu Jinghua , Li Nianqiang , Ge Shenguang , Yan Mei
Published: January 2013

Molecular imprinting technique is introduced into microfluidic paper‐based analytical devices (μ‐PADs) through electropolymerization of molecular imprinted polymer (MIP) in a novel Au nanoparticle (AuNP) modified paper working electrode (Au‐PWE). This is fabricated through the growth of a AuNP layer on the surfaces of cellulose fibers in the PWE. Due to the porous morphology of paper as well as the high specific surface area and conductivity of the resulting AuNP layer on the cellulose fibers, the effective surface area and the sensitivity of the Au‐PWE is enhanced remarkably. Based on this novel MIP‐Au‐PWE and the principle of origami, a microfluidic MIP‐based electro‐analytical origami device (μ‐MEOD), comprised of one auxiliary pad surrounded by four sample tabs, is developed for the detection of D‐glutamic acid in a linear range from 1.2 nM to 125.0 nM with a low detection limit of 0.2 nM. The selectivity, reproducibility, and stability of this μ‐MEOD are investigated. This μ‐MEOD would provide a new platform for high‐throughput, sensitive, specific, and multiplex assay as well as point‐of‐care diagnosis in public health, environmental monitoring, and the developing world.
Multi‐Stimuli Responsive Hydrogel Cilia
Authors: Glazer P. J. , Leuven J. , An H. , Lemay S. G. , Mendes E.
Published: January 2013

Large arrays of high aspect ratio, artificial hydrogel based cilia that can respond to multiple stimuli are produced by means of micro‐fabrication techniques. The cilia operate in aqueous solutions and are sensitive to pH, electric and/or magnetic fields. The biomimetic system combines both sensing and motility. Detection of changes in environment, such as a decrease in pH, triggers a collective response, to an external time‐dependent magnetic field.
Affinity Based Multilayered Polymeric Self‐Assemblies for Oral Wound Applications
Authors: Authimoolam Sundar P. , Puleo David A. , Dziubla Thomas D.
Published: January 2013

Oral mucositis, a painful and debilitating ulcerative wound condition, is a frequently occurring complication following chemo‐ and/or radiotherapy. While the current standards of therapy (e.g., gels and mouth rinses) provide temporary relief, there is still an unmet need for a robust, long acting barrier that can provide lubricating protection in oral wounds, thereby enhancing the wound healing response. It is proposed that an affinity based layer‐by‐layer (LBL) self‐assembly that can be administered as a series of mouth rinses could permit the formation of protective barriers, providing a modular approach to regenerative oral therapy. In this study, biotinylated poly(acrylic acid) was synthesized for developing LBL assemblies using biotin‐streptavidin affinity linkages. To explore the ability of developed LBL assemblies to potentially resist the harsh intraoral environment, in vitro chemical and ex vivo mechanical tests were performed. The stability results demonstrated significant LBL barrier stability with wear resistance. From statistical analyses, it was deduced that polymer MW and the number of LBL layers contributed significantly to chemical barrier stability. Also, the extent of biotin conjugation played a key role for LBL development and in mechanical barrier stability. Thus, the proposed affinity based LBLs with their excellent barrier properties offer a modular treatment approach in oral mucosal injuries.
Fate specification in the adult brain – lessons for eliciting neurogenesis from glial cells
Authors: Ninkovic Jovica , Götz Magdalena
Published: January 2013

In the adult mammalian brain, neurogenesis is restricted to few regions, while gliogenesis continues in a wide‐spread manner. Here we discuss our knowledge of extrinsic and intrinsic factors regulating neuro‐ and gliogenesis in the adult brain and propose a model of fate specification identifying the states of easiest transition between glio‐ and neurogenesis, highlighting the unique mechanisms stabilising the neural stem cell state. The model also encompasses the fate alterations achieved by direct reprogramming, and hence addresses a novel avenue for repair, namely eliciting neurogenesis from glial cells outside the neurogenic niches.
Changes in the management of infrarenal abdominal aortic aneurysm disease in Sweden
Authors: Mani K , Björck M , Wanhainen A
Published: January 2013

Background

Treatment of abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) has changed over time, with endovascular repair (EVAR) being the main technical revolution. This study assessed the effect of this change on outcome on a national basis over a 17-year interval.

Methods

Primary infrarenal AAA repairs in Swedish residents aged 50 years and older, in the Swedish Vascular Registry (Swedvasc) 1994–2010, were analysed. The rate per 100 000 population, patient characteristics, operative technique and outcome were assessed for the intervals 1994–1999, 2000–2005 and 2006–2010.

Results

Some 11 336 intact aneurysm repairs were performed. The overall rate per 100 000 increased (18·4 in 1994–1999, 19·4 in 2000–2005 and 24·0 in 2006–2010; P < 0·001), most noticeably among older people (18 per cent increase among those aged 50–64 years, P = 0·004; 27 per cent in 65–79-year-olds, P < 0·001; 128 per cent in those aged at least 80 years, P < 0·001). The use of EVAR increased rapidly after 2005 (rate: 0·6 in 1994–1999, 4·4 in 2000–2005 and 11·8 in 2006–2010; P < 0·001). The 30-day mortality rate decreased after open repair (4·7, 3·4 and 2·7 per cent respectively; P < 0·001), but was stable after EVAR (2·6, 2·2 and 1·6 per cent; P = 0·227). Some 4972 ruptured aneurysm (rAAA) repairs were performed. The rate decreased after 2005 (9·3 in 1993–1999, 9·3 in 2000–2005 and 8·4 in 2006–2010; P = 0·006). The use of EVAR for rAAA increased over time (rate: 0, 0·5 and 1·6 respectively; P < 0·001), whereas open repair decreased (9·3, 8·8 and 6·8; P < 0·001). Thirty-day mortality decreased over time (38·3, 32·8 and 28·4 per cent; P < 0·001).

Conclusion

The introduction of EVAR has been associated with an increased number of intact AAA repairs, which has accelerated recently, whereas the rate of rAAA repair has started to decline. Simultaneously, outcomes have improved.
Suitability of endoscopic submucosal dissection for treatment of submucosal gastric cancers
Authors: Lee I-S , Yook J-H , Park Y-S , Kim K-C , Oh S-T , Kim B-S
Published: January 2013

Background

Endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD) is not considered appropriate for all submucosal cancers owing to the risk of lymph node metastasis and difficulty estimating the deep margin status. This study aimed to determine predictive factors for lymph node metastases in submucosal cancer and to explore in which patients ESD might be feasible.

Methods

Details of patients who had curative gastrectomy for submucosal gastric cancer at Asan Medical Centre from 2007 to 2011 were reviewed retrospectively to determine the relationship between lymph node metastasis and clinicopathological characteristics, including age, sex, tumour location, size, gross appearance, depth of invasion, histological type/differentiation, presence of lymphovascular/perineural invasion, and immunohistochemical staining results for p53, human epidermal growth factor receptor (HER) 1 and HER2.

Results

A total of 1773 patients were analysed. The presence of lymphovascular invasion was related most strongly to lymph node metastasis. Multivariable analysis revealed that depth of invasion, tumour size, differentiation, gross appearance and perineural invasion were also related. Metastatic lymph nodes were found in four of 105 patients who met the classical criteria for ESD; all showed a moderately differentiated histological appearance. No lymph node metastases were observed in well differentiated SM1 tumours of any size (infiltration into upper third of submucosa), or in well differentiated SM2 (infiltration into middle third of submucosa) tumours of 2 cm or less without lymphovascular invasion.

Conclusion

Patients with well differentiated SM1 cancer of any size and those with well differentiated SM2 cancer of 2 cm or less without lymphovascular invasion may be suitable candidates for ESD.
Baseline thyroid indices and the subsequent response to citalopram treatment, a pilot study
Authors: Abulseoud Osama A. , Gitlin Michael , Altshuler Lori , Frye Mark A.
Published: January 2013

The lack of reliable outcome predictors and the delayed onset of therapeutic response to antidepressants are among the clinical challenges in the treatment of depression. Identifying clinical correlates associated with antidepressant response would reduce symptom severity and morbidity for patients with depression. Twenty‐three subjects with major depression were treated with citalopram 20 mg/day in a 6‐week open trial and were also simultaneously randomized to either adjunctive triiodothyronine (T3) 25 μg BID (n = 7), pindolol 5 mg BID (n = 8), or placebo (n = 8). Baseline thyroid‐stimulating hormone (TSH), FT4, FT3, and TT3 were measured for potential relationships to treatment response across groups. In males only, there was a significant inverse correlation between baseline free T4 and time to response (r = −0.7, P = 0.034). In both males and females across all treatment conditions, as measured by Kaplan–Meier (K–M) maintenance failure time, baseline TSH below the mean (1.5 ng/dL) was associated with a shorter time to response (50% reduction in Montgomery and Asberg Depression Rating Scale [MADRS] score) (χ2 = 4.53, df = 1, P = 0.03). Patients with baseline TSH above the mean were less likely to reach full remission (MADRS ≤ 7) (χ2 = 4.38, df = 1, P = 0.03). No significant differences between groups emerged in the mean response time. Baseline thyroid function, as measured by serum free T4 and TSH, may predict a patient's response time to antidepressant treatment with citalopram.
Methods in Molecular Biology 858: DNA Barcodes: Methods and Protocols. Edited by W. John Kress and David L. Erikson.
Authors: de Vere Natasha
Published: January 2013

Humana Press, Totowa 2012, XV+470 pp., hardcover, $ 139.00.—ISBN 978‐1‐61779‐590‐9
MOFs as Multifunctional Catalysts: Synthesis of Secondary Arylamines, Quinolines, Pyrroles, and Arylpyrrolidines over Bifunctional MIL‐101
Authors: Cirujano Francisco G. , Leyva‐Pérez Antonio , Corma Avelino , Llabrés i Xamena Francesc X.
Published: January 2013

Bifunctional MIL‐101 MOFs containing Lewis acid Cr3+ sites and Pd or Pt hydrogenation/reduction centers, either as isolated metal complexes or in the form of encapsulated metal nanoparticles, have shown to be highly active catalysts for the one‐pot nitroarene reduction and reductive amination of carbonyl compounds. This preparation procedure has been successfully applied to the synthesis of secondary arylamines, quinolines, pyrrols, and 3‐arylpyrrolidines. In all the cases, the MOFs have shown superior performances with respect to commercially available Pd and Pt metal catalysts under the same conditions.
Airports and Environment: Proposal of Wastewater Reclamation at São Paulo International Airport
Authors: Ribeiro Elaine Nolasco , de Sousa Wilson Cabral , de Julio Marcelo , Irrazabal Wilfredo Urruchi , Nolasco Marcelo Antunes
Published: January 2013

One way to reduce water consumption in urban areas is by using alternative sources of supply that can be provided by collecting rainwater and reusing wastewater for less restricted purposes. Thus, this study evaluated the characteristics of effluents produced by the wastewater treatment plant (WWTP) of São Paulo International Airport (SPIA), Brazil, in order to reuse it in non‐potable situations. The results achieved, indicated high efficiency in the biological system utilized by SPIA. The removal rates is equal to or >90% for most of the parameters analyzed, among them, fluoride, salinity, nitrite, nitrate, ammonium nitrogen, total nitrogen, phosphorus, sedimentable solids, turbidity, conductivity, apparent color, chemical oxygen demand, biochemical oxygen demand, total organic carbon, fecal coliforms, and oils and greases. Despite the final effluents were good enough to be launched in the local streams, they shall be submitted to a complementary treatment in order to fit some quality parameters to be reused for specific demands (landscape irrigation, toilet flushing, vehicle washing, fire fighting, and dust control).
Methylation of breast cancer susceptibility gene 1 (BRCA1) predicts recurrence in patients with curatively resected stage I non–small cell lung cancer
Authors: Harada Hiroaki , Miyamoto Kazuaki , Yamashita Yoshinori , Nakano Kikuo , Taniyama Kiyomi , Miyata Yoshihiro , Ohdan Hideki , Okada Morihito
Published: January 2013

BACKGROUND:

Even after early detection and curative resection of early stage non–small cell lung cancer (NSCLC), a significant fraction of patients develop recurrent disease. Molecular biomarkers that can predict the risk of recurrence thus need to be identified to improve clinical outcomes.

METHODS:

Using the methylation‐specific polymerase chain reaction assay, promoter methylation of the breast cancer susceptibility gene 1 (BRCA1) was assessed in cancer tissues from 70 patients with curatively resected stage I NSCLC. The clinical relevance of BRCA1 methylation status was evaluated in terms of outcome of the disease.

RESULTS:

Methylation of the BRCA1 promoter was detected in 13 of 70 patients (18.6%). Multiple logistic regression analysis revealed that BRCA1 methylation was an independent risk factor for recurrence (P = .0197) and that patients with BRCA1 methylation demonstrated significantly poorer recurrence‐free survival compared to those without (P = .0139). Cox's proportional hazard regression analysis revealed that BRCA1 methylation was an independent risk factor for recurrence‐free survival (P = .0155).

CONCLUSIONS:

Methylated BRCA1 can be a potential biomarker that predicts the prognosis after curative resection of stage I NSCLC. Considering that BRCA1 plays a role in chemotherapy‐induced apoptosis, it is plausible that identification of methylated BRCA1 could provide information that is clinically relevant to tailored adjuvant therapy. Cancer 2013. © 2013 American Cancer Society.
Nanocavity‐Based Determination of Absolute Values of Photoluminescence Quantum Yields
Authors: Chizhik Alexey I. , Gregor Ingo , Ernst Benedikt , Enderlein Jörg
Published: January 2013

We present a new method for determining absolute values of quantum yield of luminescent emitters, which is based on the modification of the radiative transition of emitters within a tunable metallic nanocavity. The method presented is easy to set up and works without any calibration. It will thus be useful for all applications where absolute and calibration‐free measurements of luminescence quantum yields are needed. Moreover, it requires only a minute amount of low‐concentration fluorophore solution. We give a detailed description of the theory and data evaluation of the nanocavity measurements, and report experimental results for several common dyes in aqueous solution.