bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Baculovirus-Encoded MicroRNA (miRNA) Suppresses Its Host miRNA Biogenesis by Regulating the Exportin-5 Cofactor Ran
Authors: Singh C. P. , Singh J. , Nagaraju J.
Published: May 2012

MicroRNAs have emerged as key players in the regulation of various biological processes in eukaryotes, including host-pathogen interactions. Recent studies suggest that viruses encode miRNAs to manipulate their host gene expression to ensure their effective proliferation, whereas the host limits virus infection by differentially expressing miRNAs that target essential viral genes. Here, we demonstrate that an insect virus,
Bombyx mori
nucleopolyhedrosis virus (BmNPV), modulates the small-RNA-mediated defense of its host,
B. mori
, by encoding an miRNA (bmnpv-miR-1) that downregulates the expression of the host GTP-binding nuclear protein Ran, an essential component of the exportin-5-mediated nucleocytoplasmic transport machinery mainly involved in small-RNA transport from the nucleus to the cytoplasm. We demonstrate the sequence-dependent interaction of bmnpv-miR-1 with Ran mRNA using cell culture and
in vivo
assays, including RNA interference (RNAi) of Ran. Our results clearly show that bmnpv-miR-1 represses Ran, leading to reduction in the host small-RNA population, and consequently, the BmNPV load increases in the infected larvae. Blocking of bmnpv-miR-1 resulted in higher expression levels of Ran and a decrease in BmNPV proliferation. In contrast, blockage of host miRNA, bmo-miR-8, which targets the immediate-early gene of the virus and whose production was repressed upon bmnpv-miR-1 and Ran dsRNA administration, resulted in a significant increase in the virus load in the infected
B. mori
larvae. The present study provides an insight into one of the evasion strategies used by the virus to counter the host defense for its effective proliferation and has relevance to the development of insect virus control strategies.
Modeling the Intracellular Dynamics of Influenza Virus Replication To Understand the Control of Viral RNA Synthesis
Authors: Heldt Frank S. , Frensing Timo , Reichl Udo
Published: May 2012

Influenza viruses transcribe and replicate their negative-sense RNA genome inside the nucleus of host cells via three viral RNA species. In the course of an infection, these RNAs show distinct dynamics, suggesting that differential regulation takes place. To investigate this regulation in a systematic way, we developed a mathematical model of influenza virus infection at the level of a single mammalian cell. It accounts for key steps of the viral life cycle, from virus entry to progeny virion release, while focusing in particular on the molecular mechanisms that control viral transcription and replication. We therefore explicitly consider the nuclear export of viral genome copies (vRNPs) and a recent hypothesis proposing that replicative intermediates (cRNA) are stabilized by the viral polymerase complex and the nucleoprotein (NP). Together, both mechanisms allow the model to capture a variety of published data sets at an unprecedented level of detail. Our findings provide theoretical support for an early regulation of replication by cRNA stabilization. However, they also suggest that the matrix protein 1 (M1) controls viral RNA levels in the late phase of infection as part of its role during the nuclear export of viral genome copies. Moreover, simulations show an accumulation of viral proteins and RNA toward the end of infection, indicating that transport processes or budding limits virion release. Thus, our mathematical model provides an ideal platform for a systematic and quantitative evaluation of influenza virus replication and its complex regulation.
Flow control techniques for Onyx embolization of intracranial dural arteriovenous fistulae
Authors: Shi Zhong-Song , Loh Yince , Gonzalez Nestor , Tateshima Satoshi , Feng Lei , Jahan Reza , Duckwiler Gary , Viñuela Fernando
Published: May 2012

Objectives

Experience of flow control techniques during endovascular treatment of intracranial dural arteriovenous fistulas (DAVFs) using the Onyx liquid embolic system is reported, with an emphasis on high flow shunts.

Methods

Data were evaluated in patients with DAVFs treated endovascularly with Onyx. Adjunctive techniques with coils, acrylics and balloon assistance were utilized to reduce the rate of flow with transarterial and transvenous approaches.

Results

The following types of adjunctive techniques were used in 58 patients who underwent a total of 84 embolization sessions with Onyx: transvenous coiling with transvenous or transarterial Onyx embolization in 36 patients, transarterial coiling with transarterial Onyx embolization in eight patients, arterial or venous balloon assisted technique with transarterial or transvenous Onyx embolization in 11 patients, transarterial high concentration acrylics with transarterial Onyx embolization in one patient and staged transarterial or transvenous coiling and Onyx embolization in two patients. Complete obliteration of the fistulae was achieved in 41 patients (70.7%) and 27 patients (65.9%) with high flow fistulae after endovascular treatment alone. Periprocedural complications were encountered in 16 patients, and 13 complications were associated with the adjunctive techniques. There were four neurologic and two non-neurologic clinical sequelae. Distal Onyx migration occurred in four, microcatheter retention in three and cranial neuropathy in three patients. There was one instance each of cerebellar hemorrhage, thromboembolism, coil stretching and retention, and dissection. 56 survivors experienced complete resolution or significant improvement of their symptoms on follow-up.

Conclusions

Flow control techniques are safe and effective adjunctive methods in primary endovascular Onyx embolization of high flow DAVFs.
INTRODUCTION
Authors: LI CHANGPIN , CHEN YANG QUAN , VINAGRE BLAS M. , PODLUBNY IGOR
Published: May 2012

Fractional Dynamics and Control is emerging as a new hot topic of research which draws tremendous attention and great interest. Although the fractional calculus appeared almost in the same era when the classical (or integer-order) calculus was born, it has recently been found that it can better characterize long-memory processes and materials, anomalous diffusion, long-range interactions, long-term behaviors, power laws, allometric scaling laws, and so on. Complex dynamical evolutions of these fractional differential equation models, as well as their controls, are becoming more and more important due to their potential applications in the real world. This special issue includes one review article and twenty-three regular papers, covering fundamental theories of fractional calculus, dynamics and control of fractional differential systems, and numerical calculation of fractional differential equations.
Fused π-extended discotic triangular porphyrinoids
Authors: Arnold Lena , Puniredd Sreenivasa Reddy , von Malotki Christian , Pisula Wojciech , Koshino Nobuyoshi , Higashimura Hideyuki , Baumgarten Martin , Wagner Manfred , Müllen Klaus
Published: May 2012

A novel fused two-dimensionally π-expanded triangular porphyrinoid has been designed. The synthesis is based on facile hexaazatrinaphthalene chemistry in combination with well-established condensation procedures to simultaneously close three porphyrinic cavities. A series of different functionalized π-expanded triangular derivatives were synthesized and their optical and electrochemical properties, as well as their supramolecular organization investigated. Low lying HOMO‒LUMO energy gaps between 1.11–1.32 eV were found for the highly π-conjugated planar triangular hexaazatrinaphthalene derivatives which organize into discotic liquid crystalline columnar stacks. Thereby, derivatives with alkoxy substituents reveal significantly higher order due to their improved flexibility in comparison to their alkyl counterparts.
RELATIVE INFORMATION ENTROPY AND WEYL TENSOR
Authors: LI NAN
Published: May 2012

Due to cosmic structures in the Universe, the inhomogeneities influence the evolution of the background Universe. To characterize this influence, we extend the Kullback-Leibler relative entropy in information theory to cosmology. We study the relation between the relative entropy and the averaging problem in the perturbed Universe, and explore the temporal evolution in linear cosmological perturbation theory and beyond. The possible relationship of the relative entropy and the Weyl tensor is also discussed briefly.
Conformal Copper Coating of True Three-Dimensional Through-Holes Using Supercritical Carbon Dioxide
Authors: Watanabe Mitsuhiro , Takeuchi Yuto , Ueno Takahiro , Matsubara Masahiro , Kondoh Eiichi , Yamamoto Satoshi , Kikukawa Naohiro , Suemasu Tatsuo
Published: May 2012

Copper thin films were deposited inside true three-dimensional, high aspect ratio, and complex shaped through-holes that were formed in glass substrates. The deposition was carried out in a supercritical carbon dioxide solution from a copper complex via hydrogen reduction. The conformal thin films were successfully deposited on the sidewalls of straight, crank-shaped, and Y-shaped through-holes. The coating length increased with decreasing the deposition temperature. Numerical simulations suggested an importance of the presence of a fluid motion in the through-holes.
Oxidation Characteristics of Thin Al–Mo Alloy Films with Various Compositions as Metal Capping Layer on Cu
Authors: Takeyama Mayumi B. , Noya Atsushi
Published: May 2012

The oxidation characteristics of Al–Mo alloy films (50 nm) deposited on Cu as a metal capping layer have been examined by varying the alloy composition. Cu oxidation from the surface and Cu out-diffusion toward the surface are well suppressed when using Al–Mo alloy with a Mo-rich composition. By using an Al15Mo85 alloy film, in which fine crystalline grains of AlMo3 are dispersed in an amorphous phase of the alloy, a well-separated layer configuration of oxide/Al–Mo alloy/Cu without excess Cu diffusion and/or preferential Al oxidation in the alloy layer is realized upon oxidation at 350 °C for 1 h in air. It is revealed that Al15Mo85 alloy films are a useful candidate material of a metal capping layer for Cu interconnects.
Interfacial Adhesion Energy of Ru–AlO Thin Film Deposited by Atomic Layer Deposition between Cu and SiO2: Effect of the Composition of Ru–AlO Thin Film
Authors: Kim Jeong-Kyu , Cheon Tae-Hoon , Kim Soo-Hyun , Park Young-Bae
Published: May 2012

The effect of the composition of Ru–AlO thin films on the interfacial adhesion energy of an Ru–AlO thin film deposited by atomic layer deposition (ALD) between Cu and SiO2, which is a potential candidate for a Cu direct-plateable diffusion barrier, was evaluated using a four-point bending test. The interfacial adhesion energy increased with increasing AlO
x
content in the Ru–AlO thin films. The results were quantitatively correlated with the interfacial chemical bonding characteristics analyzed by X-ray photoemission spectroscopy, which showed that the adhesion energy is closely related to the formation of strong Al–O–Si bonds at film/substrate interfaces.
Integration Process Development for Improved Compatibility with Organic Non-Porous Ultralow-k Dielectric Fluorocarbon on Advanced Cu Interconnects
Authors: Gu Xun , Tomita Yugo , Nemoto Takenao , Miyatani Kotaro , Saito Akane , Kobayashi Yasuo , Teramoto Akinobu , Kuroda Rihito , Kuroki Shin-Ichiro , Kawase Kazumasa , Nozawa Toshihisa , Matsuoka Takaaki , Sugawa Shigetoshi , Ohmi Tadahiro
Published: May 2012

Integration of an organic non-porous ultralow-kdielectric, fluorocarbon (k= 2.2), into advanced Cu interconnects was demonstrated. The challenges of process-induced damage, such as delamination and variances of both the structure and electrical properties of the fluorocarbon during fabrication, were investigated on Cu/fluorocarbon damascene interconnects. A titanium-based barrier layer, instead of a tantalum-based barrier layer, was used to avoid delamination between Cu and fluorocarbon in Cu/fluorocarbon interconnects. A moisture-hermetic dielectric protective layer was also effective to avoid damage induced by wet chemical cleaning. On the other hand, a post-etching nitrogen plasma treatment to form a stable protective layer on the surface of the fluorocarbon was proposed for the practical minimization of damage introduction to fluorocarbon in the following damascene process, such as post-etching cleaning.
Impact of Hydrocarbon Control in Ultraviolet-Assisted Restoration Process for Extremely Porous Plasma Enhanced Chemical Vapor Deposition SiOCH Films with k = 2.0
Authors: Kimura Yosuke , Ishikawa Dai , Nakano Akinori , Kobayashi Akiko , Matsushita Kiyohiro , Roest David de , Kobayashi Nobuyoshi
Published: May 2012

We investigated the effects of UV-assisted restoration on porous plasma-enhanced chemical vapor deposition (PECVD) SiOCH films with k = 2.0 and 2.3 having high porosities. By applying the UV-assisted restoration to O2-plasma-damaged films with k = 2.0 and 2.3, the recovery of the k-value was observed on the k = 2.3 film in proportion to –OH group reduction. However, the k = 2.0 film did not show recovery in spite of –OH group reduction. We found that hydrocarbon content in the k = 2.0 film was significantly increased by the UV-assisted restoration compared with the k = 2.3 film. According to these findings, we optimized the UV-assisted restoration to achieve improved controllability of the hydrocarbon uptake in the k = 2.0 film and confirmed the recovery of the k-value for O2-plasma-damaged film. Thus, adjusting the hydrocarbon uptake was crucial for restoring extremely porous SiOCH film.
Novel Through Silicon Vias Leakage Current Evaluation Using Infrared-Optical Beam Irradiation
Authors: Mizushima Yoriko , Kitada Hideki , Koshikawa Kazushige , Suzuki Shinsuke , Nakamura Tomoji , Ohba Takayuki
Published: May 2012

To evaluate the leakage current around through-silicon-vias (TSVs) in three-dimensional integrated circuits (3D-ICs), we propose the use of the IR-optical-beam-induced resistance change (IR-OBIRCH) method, which enables point detection of leakage currents. Leakage currents were detected directly from cross-sectional TSV samples to give more detailed information than can be obtained from conventional nondestructive top-view observations. Local leakage currents between Cu vias and the Si substrate resulted from poor sidewall coverage of the insulator, and were monitored with an image map and found to be 100 nA. Cross-sectional OBIRCH is suited for point leakage current measurements and for optimizing the metallization process of TSVs.
Influence of Wafer Edge Geometry on Removal Rate Profile in Chemical Mechanical Polishing: Wafer Edge Roll-Off and Notch
Authors: Fukuda Akira , Fukuda Tetsuo , Fukunaga Akira , Tsujimura Manabu
Published: May 2012

In the chemical mechanical polishing (CMP) process, uniform polishing up to near the wafer edge is essential to reduce edge exclusion and improve yield. In this study, we examine the influences of inherent wafer edge geometries, i.e., wafer edge roll-off and notch, on the CMP removal rate profile. We clarify the areas in which the removal rate profile is affected by the wafer edge roll-off and the notch, as well as the intensity of their effects on the removal rate profile. In addition, we propose the use of a small notch to reduce the influence of the wafer notch and present the results of an examination by finite element method (FEM) analysis.
Controlling Anion Composition at Metal–Insulator–Semiconductor Interfaces on III–V Channels by Plasma Processing
Authors: Jevasuwan Wipakorn , Urabe Yuji , Maeda Tatsuro , Miyata Noriyuki , Yasuda Tetsuji , Ohtake Akihiro , Yamada Hisashi , Hata Masahiko , Lee Sunghoon , Hoshii Takuya , Takenaka Mitsuru , Takagi Shinichi
Published: May 2012

The anion composition of InGaAs surfaces was controlled by using plasma processing, and its effects on the metal–insulator–semiconductor (MIS) properties were investigated. On-line Auger electron spectroscopy showed that H2 plasma cleaning on InGaAs effectively reduced the surface oxides and removed approximately one monolayer of As. Following this by plasma nitridation successfully introduced approximately two monolayers of N; however, the nitrided layer also contained an oxide component. Although the electrical properties of the Al2O3/InGaAs capacitors were degraded by H2 plasma processing, subsequent nitridation restored well-behaved MIS characteristics to the devices. The channel mobility of MIS field-effect transistors with a nitride interface was higher than that of the control device.
Pituitary adenylate cyclase-activating peptide enhances electrical coupling in the mouse adrenal medulla
Authors: Hill Jacqueline , Lee Seong-Ki , Samasilp Prattana , Smith Corey
Published: May 2012

Neuroendocrine adrenal medullary chromaffin cells receive synaptic excitation through the sympathetic splanchnic nerve to elicit catecholamine release into the circulation. Under basal sympathetic tone, splanchnic-released acetylcholine evokes chromaffin cells to fire action potentials, leading to synchronous phasic catecholamine release. Under elevated splanchnic firing, experienced under the sympathoadrenal stress response, chromaffin cells undergo desensitization to cholinergic excitation. Yet, stress evokes a persistent and elevated adrenal catecholamine release. This sustained stress-evoked release has been shown to depend on splanchnic release of a peptide transmitter, pituitary adenylate cyclase-activating peptide (PACAP). PACAP stimulates catecholamine release through a PKC-dependent pathway that is mechanistically independent of cholinergic excitation. Moreover, it has also been reported that shorter term phospho-regulation of existing gap junction channels acts to increase junctional conductance. In this study, we test if PACAP-mediated excitation upregulates cell-cell electrical coupling to enhance chromaffin cell excitability. We utilize electrophysiological recordings conducted in adrenal tissue slices to measure the effects of PACAP stimulation on cell coupling. We report that PACAP excitation increases electrical coupling and the spread of electrical excitation between adrenal chromaffin cells. Thus PACAP acts not only as a secretagogue but also evokes an electrical remodeling of the medulla, presumably to adapt to the organism's needs during acute sympathetic stress.
Dynamically Switching among Bundled and Single Tickets with Time‐Dependent Demand Rates
Authors: Duran Serhan , Pakyardım Yusuf Kenan
Published: May 2012

The most important market segmentation in sports and entertainment industry is the competition between customers that buy bundled and single tickets. A common selling practice is starting the selling season with bundled ticket sales and switching to selling single tickets later on. The aim of this practice is to increase the number of customers that buy bundles, which in return increases the load factor of the events with low demand. In this paper, we investigate the effect of time dependent demand on dynamic switching times from bundled to single ticket sales and the potential revenue gain over the case where the demand rate of events is assumed to be constant with time.
Substance Use and Mild Traumatic Brain Injury Risk Reduction and Prevention: A Novel Model for Treatment
Authors: Olson-Madden Jennifer H. , Brenner Lisa A. , Corrigan John D. , Emrick Chad D. , Britton Peter C.
Published: May 2012

Traumatic brain injury (TBI) and substance use disorders (SUDs) frequently co-occur. Individuals with histories of alcohol or other drug use are at greater risk for sustaining TBI, and individuals with TBI frequently misuse substances before and after injury. Further, a growing body of literature supports the relationship between comorbid histories of mild TBI (mTBI) and SUDs and negative outcomes. Alcohol and other drug use are strongly associated with risk taking. Disinhibition, impaired executive function, and/or impulsivity as a result of mTBI also contribute to an individual’s proclivity towards risk-taking. Risk-taking behavior may therefore, be a direct result of SUD and/or history of mTBI, and risky behaviors may predispose individuals for subsequent injury or continued use of substances. Based on these findings, evaluation of risk-taking behavior associated with the co-occurrence of SUD and mTBI should be a standard clinical practice. Interventions aimed at reducing risky behavior among members of this population may assist in decreasing negative outcomes. A novel intervention (Substance Use and Traumatic Brain Injury Risk Reduction and Prevention (STRRP)) for reducing and preventing risky behaviors among individuals with co-occurring mTBI and SUD is presented. Areas for further research are discussed.
The Emerging Role of PEDF in Stem Cell Biology
Authors: Elahy Mina , Baindur-Hudson Swati , Dass Crispin R.
Published: May 2012

Encoded by a single gene, PEDF is a 50 kDa glycoprotein that is highly conserved and is widely expressed among many tissues. Most secreted PEDF deposits within the extracellular matrix, with cell-type-specific functions. While traditionally PEDF is known as a strong antiangiogenic factor, more recently, as this paper highlights, PEDF has been linked with stem cell biology, and there is now accumulating evidence demonstrating the effects of PEDF in a variety of stem cells, mainly in supporting stem cell survival and maintaining multipotency.
Benefits of Whole-Body Vibration with an Oscillating Platform for People with Multiple Sclerosis: A Systematic Review
Authors: Santos-Filho Sebastião David , Cameron Michelle H. , Bernardo-Filho Mario
Published: May 2012

The objective of this work was to investigate the effects of whole-body vibration on people with multiple sclerosis (MS). PubMed, CINAHL and Scopus databases were systematically searched for studies on the use of whole-body vibration (WBV) exercise in people with MS. These searches were supplemented with material identified in the references and in the authors’ personal files. A qualitative analysis was performed to summarize the findings. Five studies with a total of seventy-one subjects were identified. All of these studies had small numbers of subjects (3–25), and two of the studies had no control groups. Some investigations have shown significant improvements of the muscle strength, of the functional mobility, and of the timed get up and go test in patients with MS. The number of publications found in the databanks searched is small, and in general, they have limitations in the design of protocols with a weakness to the interpretation of the findings. However, the analysis of the findings in these studies permits to conclude that some papers indicate that WBV exercises could benefit patients with MS. In addition, we suggest further larger scale investigations with controlled parameters and well-designed protocols into the effects of WBV exercises in people with MS.
On Unification of the Strong Convergence Theorems for a Finite Family of Total Asymptotically Nonexpansive Mappings in Banach Spaces
Authors: Mukhamedov Farrukh , Saburov Mansoor
Published: May 2012

We unify all known iterative methods by introducing a new explicit iterative scheme for approximation of common fixed points of finite families of total asymptotically I‐nonexpansive mappings. Note that such a scheme contains a particular case of the method introduced by (C. E. Chidume and E. U. Ofoedu, 2009). We construct examples of total asymptotically nonexpansive mappings which are not asymptotically nonexpansive. Note that no such kind of examples were known in the literature. We prove the strong convergence theorems for such iterative process to a common fixed point of the finite family of total asymptotically I‐nonexpansive and total asymptotically nonexpansive mappings, defined on a nonempty closed‐convex subset of uniformly convex Banach spaces. Moreover, our results extend and unify all known results.
The Significance of Splenectomy for Advanced Proximal Gastric Cancer
Authors: Nashimoto Atsushi , Yabusaki Hiroshi , Matsuki Atsushi
Published: May 2012

Objectives. The significance of splenectomy in advanced proximal gastric cancer is examined retrospectively.Methods.From 1994 to 2004, 505 patients with advanced proximal gastric cancer underwent curative total gastrectomy with preserving spleen (T) for 264 patients and total gastrectomy with splenectomy (ST) for 241 patients.Results. Patients who underwent splenectomy showed more advanced lesions. The metastatic rate of lymph node (LN) in the splenic hilus (No. 10) in ST was 18.3%. As for the incidence of surgical complications, there was not statistically difference except for pancreatic fistula. The index of estimated benefit of (No. 10) LN was 4.2, which was similar to that of (No. 9), (No. 11p), (No. 11d), and (No. 16) LNs. 5-year survival rate of (No. 10) positive group was 22.2%. 5-year survival rates of pSE and pN2 in T group were better than that of pSE and pN2 in ST, respectively. The superiority of ST was not confirmed even in Stage II, IIIA, and IIIB.Conclusion. Splenectomy was not effective for patients with (No. 10) metastasis in long-term survival. Spleen-preserving total gastrectomy will be feasible and be enough to accomplish radical surgery for locally advanced proximal gastric cancer.
Vectorial Ekeland Variational Principles and Inclusion Problems in Cone Quasi‐Uniform Spaces
Authors: Zhu Jiang , Wei Lei , Cho Yeol Je , Zhu Cheng Cheng
Published: May 2012

Some new vectorial Ekeland variational principles in cone
quasi‐uniform spaces are proved. Some new equivalent principles, vectorial
quasivariational inclusion principle, vectorial quasi‐optimization
principle, vectorial quasiequilibrium principle are obtained. Also, several
other important principles in nonlinear analysis are extended to cone
quasi‐uniform spaces. The results of this paper extend, generalize, and
improve the corresponding results for Ekeland′s variational principles of
the directed vectorial perturbation type and other generalizations of
Ekeland′s variational principles in the setting of F‐type topological
space and quasi‐metric spaces in the literatures. Even in usual real metric
spaces, some of our results are new.
Multiple Signaling Pathways Are Involved in the Interleukine-4 Regulated Expression of DC-SIGN in THP-1 Cell Line
Authors: Jin Changzhong , Wu Lijuan , Li Jie , Fang Meixin , Cheng Linfang , Wu Nanping
Published: May 2012

Dendritic cell-specific intercellular adhesion molecule-3 grabbing nonintegrin (DC-SIGN) is an important pattern recognition receptor on dendritic cells (DCs), and its expression shows significant cytological and histological specificity, being interleukine-4 (IL-4) dependent. The signaling pathways through which IL-4 regulates expression of DC-SIGN are still unclear. We used phorbol 12-myristate 13-acetate- (PMA-) differentiated THP-1 cells as thein vitromodel of monocyte/macrophage cells to study the signaling pathways involved in IL-4-regulated expression of DC-SIGN. We found that a high expression of DC-SIGN could be induced by IL-4 at the levels of mRNA and cell surface protein. Upregulated expression of DC-SIGN was almost completely blocked by the specific inhibitor of ERK pathway, and partly reduced by the specific inhibitors of JAK-STAT and NF-κB pathways. The activation of the three signaling pathways was directly confirmed by testing the phosphorylation of protein kinase within the cytoplasm and nucleus over time. The analysis ofcis-acting elements of DC-SIGN promoter showed that the activity of DC-SIGN promoter without Ets-1 transcription factors binding site almost completely disappeared. Our results demonstrated that multiple signaling pathways are involved in IL-4 induced high expression of DC-SIGN on THP-1 cells, in which ERK pathway is the main signaling pathway and mediated by the Ets-1 transcription factors binding site.
Innovative Quality-Assurance Strategies for Tuberculosis Surveillance in the United States
Authors: Manangan Lilia Ponce , Tryon Cheryl , Magee Elvin , Miramontes Roque
Published: May 2012

Introduction. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)’s National Tuberculosis Surveillance System (NTSS) is the national repository of tuberculosis (TB) data in the United States. Jurisdictions report to NTSS through the Report of Verified Case of Tuberculosis (RVCT) form that transitioned to a web-based system in 2009.Materials and Methods. To improve RVCT data quality, CDC conducted a quality assurance (QA) needs assessment to develop QA strategies. These include QA components (case detection, data accuracy, completeness, timeliness, data security, and confidentiality); sample tools such as National TB Indicators Project (NTIP) to identify TB case reporting discrepancies; comprehensive training course; resource guide and toolkit.Results and Discussion. During July–September 2011, 73 staff from 34 (57%) of 60 reporting jurisdictions participated in QA training. Participants stated usefulness of sharing jurisdictions’ QA methods; 66 (93%) wrote that the QA tools will be effective for their activities. Several jurisdictions reported implementation of QA tools pertinent to their programs. Data showed >8% increase in NTSS and NTIP enrollment through Secure Access Management Services, which monitors system usage, from August 2011–February 2012.Conclusions. Despite challenges imposed by web-based surveillance systems, QA strategies can be developed with innovation and collaboration. These strategies can also be used by other disease programs to ensure high data quality.
Commonly Used Severity Scores Are Not Good Predictors of Mortality in Sepsis from Severe Leptospirosis: A Series of Ten Patients
Authors: Velissaris Dimitrios , Karanikolas Menelaos , Flaris Nikolaos , Fligou Fotini , Marangos Markos , Filos Kriton S.
Published: May 2012

Introduction. Severe leptospirosis, also known as Weil's disease, can cause multiorgan failure with high mortality. Scoring systems for disease severity have not been validated for leptospirosis, and there is no documented method to predict mortality.Methods. This is a case series on 10 patients admitted to ICU for multiorgan failure from severe leptospirosis. Data were collected retrospectively, with approval from the Institution Ethics Committee.Results. Ten patients with severe leptospirosis were admitted in the Patras University Hospital ICU in a four-year period. Although, based on SOFA scores, predicted mortality was over 80%, seven of 10 patients survived and were discharged from the hospital in good condition. There was no association between SAPS II or SOFA scores and mortality, but survivors had significantly lower APACHE II scores compared to nonsurvivors.Conclusion. Commonly used severity scores do not seem to be useful in predicting mortality in severe leptospirosis. Early ICU admission and resuscitation based on a goal-directed therapy protocol are recommended and may reduce mortality. However, this study is limited by retrospective data collection and small sample size. Data from large prospective studies are needed to validate our findings.
A CFD Simulation on How the Different Sizes of Silica Gel Will Affect the Adsorption Performance of Silica Gel
Authors: White John
Published: May 2012

The application of computational fluid dynamics (CFD) in the area of porous media and adsorption cooling system is becoming more practical due to the significant improvement in computer power. The results from previous studies have shown that CFD can be useful tool for predicting the water vapour flow pattern, temperature, heat transfer, flow velocity, and adsorption rate. This paper investigates the effect of silica gel granular size on the water adsorption rate using computational fluid dynamics.
Oral Lichen Planus as a Preneoplastic Inflammatory Model
Authors: Georgakopoulou Eleni A. , Achtari Marina D. , Achtaris Michael , Foukas Periklis G. , Kotsinas Athanassios
Published: May 2012

Oral lichen planus (OLP) is a chronic oral inflammatory disease of unknown etiology. According to reports, 1-2% of OLP patients develop oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) in the long run. While World Health Organization (WHO) classifies OLP as “a potentially malignant disorder,” it is still a matter of debate which mechanisms drive OLP to such a condition. The current hypothesis connecting OLP and OSCC is that chronic inflammation results in crucial DNA damage which over time results in cancer development. Initial studies investigating the OLP and OSCC link were mainly retrospective clinical studies. Over the past years, several amount of information has accumulated, mainly from molecular studies on the OLP malignant potential. This article is a critical review of whether OLP has a malignant potential and, therefore, represents a model of preneoplastic inflammation.
Minor Salivary Gland Tumours of Upper Aerodigestive Tract: A Clinicopathological Study
Authors: Wyszyńska-Pawelec Grażyna , Gontarz Michał , Zapała Jan , Szuta Mariusz
Published: May 2012

The aim of this retrospective study of 56 patients with minor salivary gland tumours (MSGTs) of the upper aerodigestive tract is to present demographic features, distribution of tumours as well as methods and results of treatment performed in our institution over a 10-year period. Of 221 patients with salivary gland tumours, 56 patients with MSGT were selected. There were 36 female and 20 male patients aged from 8 to 81 years. Male-to-female ratio was 1 : 2 in the group of benign MSGT and 1 : 1.7 in the group of malignant tumours. The palate was the most frequent site of MSGT (45.6%), followed by buccal mucosa (19.3%). Of all MSGTs 63.2% were malignant, and 36.8% were benign. Adenoid cystic carcinoma was the most common neoplasm (31.6%), followed by pleomorphic adenoma (29.8%). Surgery was the method of choice in the treatment of patients with MSGT. Postoperative defects were reconstructed by prosthetic obturators, local flaps, and free radial forearm flap. Relative survival for patients with malignant MSGT was 88% at three years and 71.5% at five years. MSGTs are more frequent in females and predominantly affect the palate. Malignant MSGTs are more common than benign.
Investigating Potential Mechanisms of Obesity by Metabolomics
Authors: Xie Baogang , Waters Michael J. , Schirra Horst Joachim
Published: May 2012

Obesity is a serious health problem with an increased risk of several common diseases including diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and cancer. Metabolomics is an emerging analytical technique for systemic determination of metabolite profiles, which is useful for understanding the biochemical changes in obesity or related diseases both in individual organs and at the organism level. Increasingly, this technology has been applied to the study of obesity, complementing transcriptomics and/or proteomics analyses. Indeed, the alterations of metabolites in biofluids/tissues are direct indicators of variations in physiology or pathology. In this paper, we will examine the obesity-related alterations in significant metabolites that have been identified by metabolomics as well as their metabolic pathway associations. Issues concerning the screening of biologically significant metabolites related to obesity will also be discussed.
Evaluation of the Acetone and Aqueous Extracts of Mature Stem Bark ofSclerocarya birreafor Antioxidant and Antimicrobial Properties
Authors: Tanih Nicoline F. , Ndip Roland N.
Published: May 2012

We assayed the antimicrobial activity of acetone and aqueous extracts of the stem bark ofSclerocarya birreaon some selected bacteria and fungi species including;Streptococcus pyogenes, Plesiomonas shigelloides,Aeromonas hydrophila, Salmonella typhimurium, Cryptococcus neoformans, Candida glabrata, Trichosporon mucoides,andCandida kruseiusing both agar well diffusion and minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) assays. Based on the levels of activity, the acetone extract was examined for total polyphenolic content, radical scavenging and antioxidant activities. Total phenols of the extract were determined spectrophotometrically. The antioxidant activity was determined by the DPPH, ABTS and reducing power. All the bacteria and fungi species were susceptible to the plant extracts. The acetone extract was the most active for the bacterial species with MIC (0.156–0.625 mg/mL) while the aqueous extract was the most active for the fungi species with MIC (0.3125–1.25 mg/mL). The polyphenolic compounds were found as 27.2 mg/g tannic acid equivalent, 25.2 mg/g quercetin equivalent, 9.1 mg/g quercetin equivalent for phenols, flavonoid and flavonols respectively. The acetone extract exhibited a remarkable ability to scavenge radicals, strong reducing ability and a potential source of natural antioxidants. Both the acetone and aqueous extracts ofS. birreamay provide a target for drug discovery.
Optical Second Harmonic Generation in Semiconductor Nanostructures
Authors: Murzina Tatiana V. , Maydykovskiy Anton I. , Gavrilenko Alexander V. , Gavrilenko Vladimir I.
Published: May 2012

Optical second harmonic generation (SHG) studies of semiconductor nanostructures are reviewed. The second-order response data both predicted and observed on pure and oxidised silicon surfaces, planar Si(001)/SiO2 heterostructures, and the results related to the direct-current-and strain-induced effects in SHG from the silicon surfaces as well are discussed. Remarkable progress in understanding the unique capabilities of nonlinear optical second harmonic generation spectroscopy as an advanced tool for nanostructures diagnostics is demonstrated.
A Minimum Problem for Finite Sets of Real Numbers with Nonnegative Sum
Authors: Chiaselotti G. , Marino G. , Nardi C.
Published: May 2012

Let n and r be two integers such that 0 < r ≤ n; we denote by γ(n, r)[η(n, r)] the minimum [maximum] number of the nonnegative partial sums of a sum , where a1, …, an are n real numbers arbitrarily chosen in such a way that r of them are nonnegative and the remaining n − r are negative. We study the following two problems: (P1) which are the values of γ(n, r) and η(n, r) for each n and r, 0 < r ≤ n? (P2) if q is an integer such that γ(n, r) ≤ q ≤ η(n, r) , can we find n real numbers a1, …, an, such thatr of them are nonnegative and the remaining n − r are negative with , such that the number of the nonnegative sums formed from these numbers is exactly q?
Titanium Dioxide-Mediated Photcatalysed Degradation of Two Herbicide Derivatives Chloridazon and Metribuzin in Aqueous Suspensions
Authors: Khan A. , Mir N. A. , Faisal M. , Muneer M.
Published: May 2012

The aim of this paper is to find out the optimal degradation condition for two potential environmental pollutants, chloridazon and metribuzin (herbicide derivatives), employing advanced oxidation process using TiO2photocatalyst in aqueous suspensions. The degradation/mineralization of the herbicide was monitored by measuring the change in pollutant concentration and depletion in TOC content as a function of time. A detailed degradation kinetics was studied under different conditions such as types of TiO2(anatase/anatase-rutile mixture), catalyst concentration, herbicide concentration, initial reaction pH, and in the presence of electron acceptors (hydrogen peroxide, ammonium persulphate, potassium persulphate) in addition to atmospheric oxygen. The photocatalyst, Degussa P25, was found to be more efficient catalyst for the degradation of both herbicides as compared with two other commercially available TiO2powders like Hombikat UV100 and PC500. Chloridazon (CHL) was found to degrade more efficiently under acidic condition, whereas metribuzin (MET) degraded faster under alkaline medium. All three electron acceptors tested in this study were found to enhance the degradation rate of both herbicides.
A Primer on the Current State-of-the-Science Neoadjuvant and Adjuvant Therapy for Patients with Locally Advanced Rectal Adenocarcinomas
Authors: Yorio Jeffrey T. , Bhadkamkar Nishin A. , Kee Bryan K. , Garrett Christopher R.
Published: May 2012

Patients with rectal cancers, due to the unique location of the tumor, have a recurrence pattern distinct from colon cancers. Advances in adjuvant therapy over the last three decades have played an important role in improving patient outcomes. This article serves to review the clinical studies that lay the basis for our current standard-of-care treatment of patients with locally advanced rectal cancer, as well as touch upon future ongoing experimental clinical trials of adjuvant chemoradiation therapy.
Nitrogen Immobilization in Plant Growth Substrates: Clean Chip Residual, Pine Bark, and Peatmoss
Authors: Boyer Cheryl R. , Torbert H. Allen , Gilliam Charles H. , Fain Glenn B. , Gallagher Thomas V. , Sibley Jeff L.
Published: May 2012

Rising costs of potting substrates have caused horticultural growers to search for alternative, lower-cost materials. Objectives of this study were to determine the extent of nitrogen immobilization and microbial respiration in a high wood-fiber content substrate, clean chip residual. Microbial activity and nitrogen availability of two screen sizes (0.95 cm and 0.48 cm) of clean chip residual were compared to control treatments of pine bark and peatmoss in a 60-day incubation experiment. Four rates (0, 1, 2, or 3 mg) of supplemental nitrogen were assessed. Peatmoss displayed little microbial respiration over the course of the study, regardless of nitrogen rate; followed by pine bark, 0.95 cm clean chip residual, and 0.48 cm clean chip residual. Respiration increased with increasing nitrogen. Total inorganic nitrogen (plant available nitrogen) was greatest with peatmoss; inorganic nitrogen in other treatments were similar at the 0, 1, and 2 mg supplemental nitrogen rates, while an increase occurred with the highest rate (3 mg). Clean chip residual and pine bark were similar in available nitrogen compared to peatmoss. This study suggests that nitrogen immobilization in substrates composed of clean chip residual is similar to pine bark and can be treated with similar fertilizer amendments during nursery production.
miR-103/107 Promote Metastasis of Colorectal Cancer by Targeting the Metastasis Suppressors DAPK and KLF4
Authors: Chen Hsin-Yi , Lin Yu-Min , Chung Hsiang-Ching , Lang Yaw-Dong , Lin Ching-Jung , Huang John , Wang Wei-Chi , Lin Feng-Mao , Chen Zhen , Huang Hsien-Da , Shyy John Y.-J. , Liang Jin-Tung , Chen Ruey-Hwa
Published: May 2012

Metastasis is the major cause of poor prognosis in colorectal cancer (CRC), and increasing evidence supports the contribution of miRNAs to cancer progression. Here, we found that high expression of miR-103 and miR-107 (miR-103/107) was associated with metastasis potential of CRC cell lines and poor prognosis in patients with CRC. We showed that miR-103/107 targeted the known metastasis suppressors death-associated protein kinase (DAPK) and Krüppel-like factor 4 (KLF4) in CRC cells, resulting in increased cell motility and cell–matrix adhesion and decreased cell–cell adhesion and epithelial marker expression. miR-103/107 expression was increased in the presence of hypoxia, thereby potentiating DAPK and KLF4 downregulation and hypoxia-induced motility and invasiveness. In mouse models of CRC, miR-103/107 overexpression potentiated local invasion and liver metastasis effects, which were suppressed by reexpression of DAPK or KLF4. miR-103/107–mediated downregulation of DAPK and KLF4 also enabled the colonization of CRC cells at a metastatic site. Clinically, the signature of a miR-103/107 high, DAPK low, and KLF4 low expression profile correlated with the extent of lymph node and distant metastasis in patients with CRC and served as a prognostic marker for metastasis recurrence and poor survival. Our findings therefore indicate that miR-103/107–mediated repression of DAPK and KLF4 promotes metastasis in CRC, and this regulatory circuit may contribute in part to hypoxia-stimulated tumor metastasis. Strategies that disrupt this regulation might be developed to block CRC metastasis. Cancer Res; 72(14); 3631–41. ©2012 AACR.
Proteomic Analysis of Matrix of Dental Biofilm Formed under Dietary Carbohydrate Exposure
Authors: Moi G.P. , Cury J.A. , Dombroski T.C.D. , Pauletti B.A. , Paes Leme A.F.
Published: May 2012

To evaluate whether protein changes in extracellular matrix of dental biofilm are a unique property of sucrose, this in situ study was conducted using as active control glucose and fructose, the sucrose monosaccharide constituents. Proteins were analyzed by two-dimensional electrophoresis followed by LC-MS/MS after trypsin digestion. Absence or lower abundance of calcium-binding proteins and higher abundance of prolactin-induced proteins were found in biofilm formed in the presence of sucrose or its monosaccharide constituents compared with water, the negative control group. The data suggest that besides sucrose, other dietary carbohydrates may also provoke a change in the protein profile of extracellular matrix of dental biofilm formed.
Trust in Smart Systems
Authors: Verberne Frank M. F. , Ham Jaap , Midden Cees J. H.
Published: May 2012

Objective:

We examine whether trust in smart systems is generated analogously to trust in humans and whether the automation level of smart systems affects trustworthiness and acceptability of those systems.

Background:

Trust is an important factor when considering acceptability of automation technology. As shared goals lead to social trust, and intelligent machines tend to be treated like humans, the authors expected that shared driving goals would also lead to increased trustworthiness and acceptability of adaptive cruise control (ACC) systems.

Method:

In an experiment, participants ( N = 57) were presented with descriptions of three ACCs with different automation levels that were described as systems that either shared their driving goals or did not. Trustworthiness and acceptability of all the ACCs were measured.

Results:

ACCs sharing the driving goals of the user were more trustworthy and acceptable than were ACCs not sharing the driving goals of the user. Furthermore, ACCs that took over driving tasks while providing information were more trustworthy and acceptable than were ACCs that took over driving tasks without providing information. Trustworthiness mediated the effects of both driving goals and automation level on acceptability of ACCs.

Conclusion:

As when trusting other humans, trusting smart systems depends on those systems sharing the user’s goals. Furthermore, based on their description, smart systems that take over tasks are judged more trustworthy and acceptable when they also provide information.

Application:

For optimal acceptability of smart systems, goals of the user should be shared by the smart systems, and smart systems should provide information to their user.
Place, Ethics, and Everyday Eating: A Tale of Two Neighbourhoods
Authors: Johnston Josée , Rodney Alexandra , Szabo Michelle
Published: May 2012

In this article we investigate how ‘ethical eating’ varies across neighbourhoods and explore the classed nature of these patterns. While our focus is on ‘ethical eating’ (e.g. eating organics, local), we also discuss its relation to healthy eating. The analysis draws from interviews with families in two Toronto neighbourhoods – one upper and the other lower income. We argue that understandings and practices of ‘ethical eating’ are significantly shaped by social class as well as place-specific neighbourhood cultures which we conceptualize as part of a ‘prototypical’ neighbourhood eating style. People compare themselves to a neighbourhood prototype (positively and negatively), and this sets a standard for acceptable eating practices. This analysis helps shed light on how place is implicated in the maintenance and reproduction of class-stratified food practices.