bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Deposition of organic−inorganic hybrid coatings over 316L surgical stainless steel and evaluation on vascular cells
Authors: Doro F.G. , Ramos A.P. , Schneider J.F. , Rodrigues-Filho U.P. , Veiga M.A.M.S. , Yano C.L. , Negreti A. , Krieger M.H. , Tfouni E.
Published: May 2014

Surface coating of metallic materials using the sol-gel technique is a suitable approach to obtain hybrid materials with improved properties for biomedical applications. In this study, an AISI 316L stainless steel surface was coated with ormosils prepared from tetraethylsiloxane and 3-glycidoxypropyltrimethoxysilane or polydimethylsiloxane. The characterization of structural and surface properties was performed by several techniques. Surface microstructure, morphology, and energy are dependent on organosilane type and content. Chemical stability of coatings was investigated by static immersion tests in phosphate buffer solution at 37 °C, and silicon leaching after 21 days was found to be in the range of ∼200−300 μg L−1. Mechanical adhesion was found to be within 1.0 and 3.7 N cm−1. The interaction of the samples and materials in the cardiovascular environment was investigated through cellular behavior. Biological assays were performed with slides to avoid any cytotoxic effects on human endothelial cells (HUVEC) and rabbit arterial smooth muscle cells (RASM). No significant alterations were observed after 24 h in the viability of RASM and HUVEC cells exposed to different coatings. No increase of HUVEC or RASM migration was observed after 24 h as evaluated by transwell migration assay. The hybrid materials showed suitable properties for potential application as biomaterials in cardiovascular environment as well as for incorporation of bioactive species with the aim to prepare drug-eluting stents.
Defect creation in Ge and GaAs semiconductor crystals by huge electronic excitations: A thermal spike description
Authors: Kadid S. , Meftah A.
Published: May 2014

Irradiation of semiconductor crystals with swift heavy ions or cluster beams is one way of obtaining information about both the defect characteristics in the investigated material and the defect formation mechanisms. In this work, to explain the formation of defects (latent tracks) observed experimentally to be effects of cluster–ion irradiations in Ge and GaAs, we have used the thermal spike model. The part of the energy used for thermal spike formation is determined by the electron–phonon coupling constant, g, which is unknown for semiconductors. The thermal spike calculations performed with an electron–phonon coupling constant, g(300 K) = 1.8 × 1012 W cm−3K−1 for Ge and g(300 K) = 3.2 × 1012 Wcm−3K−1 for GaAs nicely reproduce the size of amorphous tracks observed in both materials irradiated with C60 clusters, assuming the quenching of a vapor phase as the criterion of track formation. Our results also show that g decreases when the electronic stopping power threshold increases. The expected propensity, electron–phonon coupling increasing with the band gap energy, is confirmed.
THE IMPACT OF THE GOODS AND SERVICES TAX (GST) IN MALAYSIA: LESSONS FROM EXPERIENCES ELSEWHERE (A NOTE)
Authors: NARAYANAN SURESH
Published: May 2014

The recent Malaysian attempt to introduce the Goods and Services Tax (GST) was thwarted by public concerns about: (i) its impact on the price level; (ii) its regressivity; (iii) the possibility of the rate increases once the tax is in place; and finally, the disincentive large revenues from the GST would be in addressing the underlying causes of wasteful public expenditures and leakages. The experiences of countries that have implemented a similar tax are surveyed to assess these concerns. It is concluded that within the Malaysian context, all the concerns are well-founded and measures are therefore suggested to ameliorate them.
REGIONAL CONVERGENCE OF ECONOMIC GROWTH DURING POST-REFORM PERIOD IN INDIA
Authors: MALLICK JAGANNATH
Published: May 2014

This paper examines the club-convergence and conditional convergence of economic growth of the major 15 states in India over the periods from 1993–1994 to 2004–2005 by using dynamic fixed effect growth models. The result finds that there is club-convergence within the middle income states. There is also evidence of the convergence of per capita income among Indian states by conditioning private investment and public investment along with other factors of economic growth. This paper is innovative in separating the significance of private investment from the public investment in the long-run dynamics of income in Indian states. This paper suggests that regional disparity in income can be reduced by equitable allocation of private investment and equitable distribution of public investment.
A REGIME SWITCHING ANALYSIS OF INDONESIA'S EXCHANGE MARKET PRESSURE
Authors: HERIQBALDI UNGGUL , ISMAIL MUNAWAR , KALUGE DAVID , SANTOSO DWI BUDI
Published: May 2014

This paper examines the extent to which the Indonesia's currency crisis can be accounted for by macro and micro economic fundamentals by employing Markov-switching approach under cross-generation crisis models. In order to represent the speculative attack in the economy, the study utilized one of the measures that is most widely adopted to signal the breakup of a crisis, the Exchange Market Pressure Index (EMPI). This paper found the following. First, liquidity (DC), real exchange rate (RER2) and ratio of banking credit to GDP (BCred) were found to significantly influence the EMPI, indicating that the behavior of EMPI has the characteristic that is predicted by the first, second, and third generation of crisis model found to significantly influence the EMPI, indicating that the behavior of EMPI has the characteristic that is predicted by the first, second and third generation of crisis models. Second, the LR test showed that regime switching dynamic model is more robust than ordinary dynamic model in explaining the EMPI, suggesting that speculative attacks tend to have the characteristics of multiple equilibria. Third, the transition probability matrix results showed that the tranquility regime was more persistent than the volatile regime.
Proton–proton, pion–proton and pion–pion diffractive collisions at ultrahigh energies
Authors: Anisovich V. V. , Nikonov K. V. , Nikonov V. A. , Nyiri J.
Published: May 2014

The LHC energies are those at which the asymptotic regime in hadron–hadron diffractive collisions (pp, πp, ππ) might be switched on. Based on results of the Dakhno–Nikonov eikonal model which is a generalization of the Good–Walker eikonal approach for a continuous set of channels, we present a picture for transformation of the constituent quark mode to the black disk one. In the black disk mode [Formula: see text], we have a growth of the logarithm squared type for total and elastic cross-sections, σ tot ~ ln 2 s and σ el ~ ln 2 s and [Formula: see text]-scaling for diffractive scattering and diffractive dissociation of hadrons. The diffractive dissociation cross-section grows as σD ~ ln s, σDD ~ ln s, and their relative contribution tends to zero: σD/σ tot → 0, σDD/σ tot → 0. Asymptotic characteristics of diffractive and total cross-sections are universal, and this results in the asymptotical equality of cross-sections for all types of hadrons (the Gribov universality). The energy scale for switching on the asymptotic mode is estimated for different processes.
Half-metallic ferromagnetism in V-doped ZnTe semiconductor at reduced dopant concentration
Authors: Sajjad M. , Zhang H. X. , Noor N. A. , Alay-e-Abbas S. M. , Abid M. , Shaukat A.
Published: May 2014

In this study, we examine the structural, electronic, magnetic and bonding properties of zincblende phase Zn 1-x V x Te (x = 0.0625, 0.125, 0.25) compounds to present them as suitable candidates for spintronic applications. Density functional theory calculations have been used by implementing the accurate full-potential linear-augmented-planewave plus local-orbital method. Structural properties have been computed using Wu–Cohen generalized gradient approximation, whereas the modified Becke and Johnson local (spin) density approximation (mBJLDA) function has been employed for the evaluating ground state electronic properties and ferromagnetic behavior. The half-metallic (HM) ferromagnetism in Zn 1-x V x Te is analyzed in terms of V -3d states and it is shown that mBJLDA predicts wide HM gaps which promise the possibility of achieving V -doped ZnTe with high Curie temperature. The spin exchange splittings Δx(d) and Δx(pd) have been estimated and the contribution of conduction band (CB) and valence band (VB) in exchange splitting is calculated in terms of the exchange constants N0α and N0β. Furthermore, spin-polarized charge density calculation is presented for elucidating the bonding nature, while pressure dependence of total magnetic moment for three concentrations of V -doped ZnTe is also discussed.
Seifert volumes and dilogarithm identities
Authors: Khoi Vu The
Published: May 2014

In this paper, we obtain new dilogarithm identities by computing the Seifert volume of manifolds obtained by Dehn surgery on the figure-eight knot in two different ways.
A Riccati equation based approach to isotropic scalar field cosmologies
Authors: Harko Tiberiu , Lobo Francisco S. N. , Mak M. K.
Published: May 2014

Gravitationally coupled scalar fields ϕ, distinguished by the choice of an effective self-interaction potential V(ϕ), simulating a temporarily nonvanishing cosmological term, can generate both inflation and late time acceleration. In scalar field cosmological models the evolution of the Hubble function is determined, in terms of the interaction potential, by a Riccati type equation. In the present work, we investigate scalar field cosmological models that can be obtained as solutions of the Riccati evolution equation for the Hubble function. Four exact integrability cases of the field equations are presented, representing classes of general solutions of the Riccati evolution equation. The solutions correspond to cosmological models in which the Hubble function is proportional to the scalar field potential plus a linearly decreasing function of time, models with the time variation of the scalar field potential proportional to the potential minus its square, models in which the potential is the sum of an arbitrary function and the square of the function integral, and models in which the potential is the sum of an arbitrary function and the derivative of its square root, respectively. The cosmological properties of all models are investigated in detail, and it is shown that they can describe the inflationary or the late accelerating phase in the evolution of the universe.
A Parametric Study of Sound Focusing in Shallow Water by Using Acoustic Contrast Control
Authors: Lin Yi-Wei , Too Gee-Pinn James
Published: May 2014

Acoustic contrast control is a sound focusing technique applied to personal audio system devices to provide the optimal sound contrast for increasing or decreasing the potential sound energy of a specific area. In this study, acoustic contrast control was developed for sound focusing in shallow water. The advantage of this technique is the establishment of two zones: a bright zone around the user and a dark zone for other regions. In the acoustic contrast control process, computational ocean acoustics are used to calculate the Green's function between the source point and the field point. The effects of environmental parameters, which comprised the number of control sources, transmission frequency, control distances between sources and control zone of a geometric location were simulated. The results show that acoustic contrast control is an effective approach for sound focusing in shallow water that can increase the potential sound energy of a specific area. Employing this technique can also enhance underwater communications by using frequency-shift keying modulation for cross-talking applications.
MANAGEMENT OF FLEXOR TENDON INJURIES — PART 2: CURRENT PRACTICE IN AUSTRALIA AND GUIDELINES FOR TRAINING YOUNG SURGEONS
Authors: Tolerton Sarah K. , Lawson Richard D. , Tonkin Michael A.
Published: May 2014

Introduction: This study aims to gain a better understanding of current practice for the surgical management and rehabilitation of flexor tendon injuries in Australia, with the intent of establishing common guidelines for training of young surgeons.

Methods: A survey was distributed to the membership of the Australian Hand Surgery Society to determine whether a consensus could be obtained for: suture material and gauge; core and epitenon suture techniques; sheath and pulley management; and post-operative protocols for primary flexor tendon repair.

Results: The predominant materials used for core suture are TicronTMSuture (Tyco Healthcare Group LP, Norwalk, Connecticut, USA) (34%) and EthibondTMPolyester Suture (Ethicon, Somerville, New Jersey, USA) (24%). The two core suture configurations commonly used are the Adelaide (45%) and Kessler (32%) repair. The predominant materials used for epitendinous sutures are 6-0 ProleneTMPolypropylene Suture (Ethicon, Somerville, New Jersey, USA) (56%), 5-0 ProleneTM(21%) and 6-0 EthilonTMNylon Suture (Ethicon, Somerville, New Jersey, USA) (13%); and the majority (63%) use a running epitendinous technique. The management of critical pulleys is variable, with 89% prepared to perform some release of A2 and A4 pulleys. Rehabilitation protocols vary widely, with 24% of respondents using the same method for all patients, while 76% tailor their approach to each patient. Some component of active motion was used by most.

Discussion: There exists some consensus on the management of flexor tendon injuries in Australia. However, the management of critical pulleys and methods of post-operative rehabilitation remain varied. For the training of young surgeons, a majority advise a 3-0 gauge braided polyester core suture of four strands, combined with a 6-0 ProleneTMsimple running epitendinous suture for increased tendon repair strength and smooth glide. Trainees should attempt to retain the integrity of the A2 and A4 pulleys. Post-operative rehabilitation should include a component of active flexion.
STRUCTURAL CHANGES OF THE CARPAL TUNNEL, MEDIAN NERVE AND FLEXOR TENDONS IN MRI BEFORE AND AFTER ENDOSCOPIC CARPAL TUNNEL RELEASE
Authors: Momose Toshimitsu , Uchiyama Shigeharu , Kobayashi Seneki , Nakagawa Hiroyuki , Kato Hiroyuki
Published: May 2014

The purpose of this study is to investigate the structural changes of the carpal tunnel, median nerve, and flexor tendons in magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) before and after endoscopic carpal tunnel release (ECTR). We studied 36 hands undergoing ECTR. In MRI, the cross-sectional area of the carpal tunnel and the median nerve at the hamate and the pisiform levels were measured. The distance from the volar side of carpal bone to the median nerve or tendons and the volar displacement were measured. In post-operative MRI, the transverse carpal ligament could not be well delineated and the carpal tunnel was significantly enlarged both at the hamate and pisiform levels. The median nerve was enlarged at the hamate level. The median nerve and flexor tendons significantly moved to the volar side. The volar displacement of the median nerve and flexor digitorum superficialis in the long and ring fingers was greater than the other tendons.
THUMB OPPOSITION IN SEVERE CARPAL TUNNEL SYNDROME WITH UNDETECTABLE APB-CMAP
Authors: Ebata Tatsuki , Imai Katsumi , Tokunaga Susumu , Takahasi Yuji , Abe Yoshihiro
Published: May 2014

Thumb opposition does not always represent the function of the median nerve due to variations in thenar muscle innervation. One hundred and thirty hands of 109 idiopathic carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) patients with an undetectable compound muscle action potential of the abductor pollicis brevis (APB-CMAP) were classified into one of four groups; Type 1 (86.2%) had thenar muscle atrophy and could not perform thumb opposition; Type 2 (10.8%) had thenar muscle atrophy but could perform thumb opposition; Type 3 (2.3%) did not have thenar muscle atrophy and could perform thumb opposition, but needle electromyography of the APB showed neurogenic changes and Type 4 (0.8%) had no thenar muscle atrophy, could perform thumb opposition, and needle electromyography showed no neurogenic changes. Over 10% of severe CTS patients have mild or no muscle atrophy and intact thumb opposition. The purpose of this study was to investigate the variations in thenar muscle innervation in patients with severe CTS.
TWO CASES OF PROXIMAL POLE SCAPHOID FRACTURE ACCOMPANIED BY LUNATE FRACTURE
Authors: Asano Tetsuhiro , Hidaka Yasuhiro
Published: May 2014

We experienced two cases of simultaneous fracture of the scaphoid and the lunate. In two cases, both scaphoid and lunate fractures existed on the same plane, which may help us to understand the mechanism of proximal fracture of the scaphoid.
CONGENITAL DEFECTS OF THE FLEXOR DIGITORUM PROFUNDUS TENDON OF THE LITTLE FINGER
Authors: Fukuoka Masatoshi , Takayama Shinichiro , Seki Atuhito
Published: May 2014

The cases of two patients, a four-year-old boy and an eight-year-old boy, who had been incapable of active flexion of the little finger since birth, are presented. They were capable of active flexion of the metacarpophalangeal (MP) joint, but not of the proximal interphalangeal (PIP) and distal interphalangeal (DIP) joints. They were diagnosed with a defect of the flexor digitorum profundus (FDP) tendon of the little finger and underwent surgery. In both cases, the FDP tendon turned into fibrous tissue proximal to the palm and lost continuity on this side. Reconstruction was performed by making an end-to-side anastomosis of the residual proximal end of the FDP tendon to the FDP tendon of the ring finger in the palmar region. Although one patient required repeated surgery due to post-operative tendon adhesion, good outcomes were achieved, with both patients becoming capable of active flexion.
ATYPICAL SUBCUTANEOUS GRANULOMA ANNULARE ON THE DIGIT: A CASE REPORT
Authors: Sano Kazufumi , Katagiri Kazumoto , Ozeki Satoru
Published: May 2014

Subcutaneous granuloma annulare is a benign inflammatory disorder consisting of deep dermal or subcutaneous nodules, and frequently occurring in the extremities and scalp in children. The occurrence of aggregated multiple nodules in a digit is quite atypical. This is a report of an eight-year-old girl who presented with increasingly asymptomatic multiple nodules on her middle finger over a period of six months. Definitive diagnosis of subcutaneous granuloma annulare was achieved with surgical biopsy and no aggressive growth subsequently and showed a tendency toward spontaneous resolution.
SEA URCHIN SPINE ARTHRITIS OF THE PROXIMAL INTERPHALANGEAL JOINT OF THE HAND: RADIOLOGICAL, INTRAOPERATIVE AND HISTOPATHOLOGICAL FINDINGS
Authors: Mahon Nicola , Chan Jeffrey C. Y. , Nizar Bafiq , Feeley Linda , O'Shaughnessy Michael
Published: May 2014

Penetrating sea urchin spine injuries, can lead to devastating, irreversible consequences. Persistent inflammation, cutaneous granuloma, neuroma, tenosynovitis, arthritis and destructive arthritis, leading to permanent loss of function and digit amputation, can occur. We present a case of a patient who developed sea urchin spine arthritis of the proximal interphalangeal joint. Only 17 cases of sea urchin spine arthritis of the hand have been documented in the medical literature. However, in this case, the article also includes sequential radiographs, histopathological slides, and intra-operative photographs.
INTRAOSSEOUS EPIDERMOID CYST DISCOVERED IN THE DISTAL PHALANX OF A THUMB: A CASE REPORT
Authors: Shin John Junghun , Kwon Ki-Yeon , Oh Jin-Rok
Published: May 2014

Intraosseous epidermoid cyst is considered a rare benign inclusion cyst found mainly in the skull and phalanges. Once the cyst is differentiated from other similar lesions, the cyst can be treated with simple curettage, seldom requiring additional managements. We experienced this rare case that had been treated successfully without complication.
USEFULNESS OF BRAIDED POLYBLEND POLYETHYLENE SUTURE MATERIAL FOR FLEXOR TENDON REPAIR IN ZONE II BY THE SIDE-LOCKING LOOP TECHNIQUE
Authors: Ryoke Koji , Uchio Yuji , Yamagami Nobuo , Kuwata Suguru , Nozaki Kenji , Yamamoto Soichiro , Tsujimoto Yumiko
Published: May 2014

Flexor tendon injuries in zone II were treated in 14 fingers of 13 patients with our method. Firstly, a 2-strand core suture was made by the side-locking loop technique using a USP 2-0-sized braided polyblend polyethylene suture, then 7-strand peripheral cross-stitches were added using a USP 5-0-sized monofilament nylon suture.

Post-operative exercises included passive flexion and extension without external fixation on the next day of surgery. Average follow-up observation period was 18 months. As results, the Strickland method of assessment for surgical outcome showed excellent in eight digits and good in five digits, though there was a poor outcome in one digit. Our suture method enabled early post-operative mobilisation exercise without using a splint, while preventing adhesion between the repaired tendon and peripheral tissues, which is considered to provide far greater ultimate tensile strength and a smaller gap at the sutured site than by the conventional method.
NMR spectral properties of 16 synthetic bacteriochlorins with site-specific 13C or 15N substitution
Authors: Chen Chih-Yuan , Taniguchi Masahiko , Lindsey Jonathan S.
Published: May 2014

The 1 H , 13 C , and 15 N nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectral properties have been examined of a family of synthetic bacteriochlorins wherein each member incorporates a pair of 13 C or 15 N atoms. The atom locations span the inner core of the macrocycle: (1) 15 N at the 21,23- or 22,24-positions; (2) 13 C at the meso- (5,15- or 10,20-) positions; (3) 13 C at the pyrrole α-positions (1,11- or 4,14-positions); and (4) 13 C at the pyrroline α-positions (6,16- or 9,19-positions). Each bacteriochlorin lacks peripheral substituents other than a geminal dimethyl group at the 8- and 18-positions to preclude adventitious dehydrogenation. In total, eight free base and eight zinc bacteriochlorin isotopologs were examined to directly assign 1 H , 13 C and 15 N resonances of the macrocycle skeleton. Complete and unambiguous assignments, including those for all tertiary and quaternary carbons, were accomplished chiefly by direct inspection of 1D NMR spectra of each isotopolog. Coupling constants (1 H –1 H , 13 C –1 H , 15 N –1 H , 13 C –13 C and 15 N –13 C ), which are rarely reported for tetrapyrroles, also were extracted. The 1 H and 13 C chemical shifts were then compared to those of unsaturated analogs (chlorin, porphyrin) and natural bacteriochlorophylls. The comprehensive set of NMR spectroscopic properties of sparsely substituted bacteriochlorins provides valuable information for understanding substitution effects and aromaticity in structurally more elaborate counterparts.
The morpho-functional assessment of plasmonic photothermal therapy effects on transplanted liver tumor
Authors: Bucharskaya A. B. , Maslyakova G. N. , Afanasyeva G. A. , Terentyuk G. S. , Navolokin N. A. , Zlobina O. V. , Chumakov D. S. , Bashkatov A. N. , Genina E. A. , Khlebtsov N. G. , Khlebtsov B. N. , Tuchin V. V.
Published: May 2014

The antitumor efficiency of gold nanorod plasmonic photothermal therapy (PPTT) was evaluated experimentally. The rat cholangiocarcinoma line PC-1 was used as a tumor model. Exposure of tumors to 808-nm laser radiation was performed, and the noninvasive temperature monitoring of the tumor tissue was carried out using infrared imager. The growth rate kinetics and morphological alterations of transplanted liver tumors, as well as indicators of lipid peroxidation activity and autointoxication in rat serum, were studied. The activation of lipid peroxidation and the development of autointoxication were detected after PPTT. The results not only demonstrate the antitumor efficacy of the proposed therapeutic technology but also reveal the side effects in the presence of peroxidation products in systemic circulation.
Structural kinematics based damage zone prediction in gradient structures using vibration database
Authors: Talha Mohammad , Ashokkumar Chimpalthradi R.
Published: May 2014

To explore the applications of functionally graded materials (FGMs) in dynamic structures, structural kinematics based health monitoring technique becomes an important problem. Depending upon the displacements in three dimensions, the health of the material to withstand dynamic loads is inferred in this paper, which is based on the net compressive and tensile displacements that each structural degree of freedom takes. These net displacements at each finite element node predicts damage zones of the FGM where the material is likely to fail due to a vibration response which is categorized according to loading condition. The damage zone prediction of a dynamically active FGMs plate have been accomplished using Reddy's higher-order theory. The constituent material properties are assumed to vary in the thickness direction according to the power-law behavior. The proposed C0finite element model (FEM) is applied to get net tensile and compressive displacement distributions across the structures. A plate made of Aluminum/Ziconia is considered to illustrate the concept of structural kinematics-based health monitoring aspects of FGMs.
Development of multi-phase-field crack model for crack propagation in polycrystal
Authors: Oshima Kento , Takaki Tomohiro , Muramatsu Mayu
Published: May 2014

It is vitally important to ensure the safety of brittle materials. Therefore, it is essential to deeply understand the interaction of the material's microstructure and crack propagation. In this study, we constructed a multi-phase-field crack model which can express crack propagation in polycrystal. To evaluate the basic characteristics of the developed model, we performed two-dimensional crack propagation simulations in a bicrystal where a crack enters an inclined grain boundary by changing the ratio of the grain boundary energy to the crack surface energy. As a result, it is confirmed that the model can reasonably determine the crack path, depending on those conditions. Furthermore, by performing crack propagation simulations in a polycrystal, it is concluded that the model can properly express transgranular and intergranular cracks.
Performance of lead-free piezoelectric materials in cantilever-based energy harvesting devices
Authors: Kumar Anuruddh , Kumar Rajeev , Chauhan Vishal S. , Vaish Rahul
Published: May 2014

Energy harvesting is one of the emerging applications of piezoelectric materials. In order to replace conventional lead-based materials with lead-free materials, it is important to evaluate their performance for such applications. In the present study, finite element method-based simulation shows mean power density produced from ( K0.475Na0.475Li0.05)( Nb0.92Ta0.05Sb0.03) O3add with 0.4 wt.% CeO2and 0.4 wt.% MnO2(KNLNTS) bimorph is 96.64% of lead zirconate titanate ( Pb [ ZrxTi1-x] O3) (PZT) ceramics. Load resistance (R), length of proof mass (Lm) and thickness of host layer (th) are optimized (using genetic algorithm) for maximum power density and tuning the operating frequency range which is near to natural frequency of the structure. The lead-free piezoelectric material KNLNTS has comparable results to that of PZT for piezoelectric energy harvester in the ambient frequency range of 90 Hz to 110 Hz. Results show that KNLNTS ceramics can be potentially used in energy harvesting devices.
Human FABP1 T94A variant impacts fatty acid metabolism and PPAR-α activation in cultured human female hepatocytes
Authors: McIntosh Avery L. , Huang Huan , Storey Stephen M. , Landrock Kerstin K. , Landrock Danilo , Petrescu Anca D. , Gupta Shipra , Atshaves Barbara P. , Kier Ann B. , Schroeder Friedhelm
Published: May 2014

Although human liver fatty acid-binding protein (FABP1) T94A variant has been associated with nonalcoholic fatty liver disease and reduced ability of fenofibrate to lower serum triglycerides (TG) to target levels, molecular events leading to this phenotype are poorly understood. Cultured primary hepatocytes from female human subjects expressing the FABP1 T94A variant exhibited increased neutral lipid (TG, cholesteryl ester) accumulation associated with 1) upregulation of total FABP1, a key protein stimulating mitochondrial glycerol-3-phosphate acyltransferase (GPAM), the rate-limiting enzyme in lipogenesis; 2) increased mRNA expression of key enzymes in lipogenesis ( GPAM, LPIN2) in heterozygotes; 3) decreased mRNA expression of microsomal triglyceride transfer protein; 4) increased secretion of ApoB100 but not TG; 5) decreased long-chain fatty acid (LCFA) β-oxidation. TG accumulation was not due to any increase in LCFA uptake, de novo lipogenesis, or the alternate monoacylglycerol O-acyltransferase pathway in lipogenesis. Despite increased expression of total FABP1 mRNA and protein, fenofibrate-mediated FABP1 redistribution to nuclei and ligand-induced peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor (PPAR-α) transcription of LCFA β-oxidative enzymes (carnitine palmitoyltransferase 1A, carnitine palmitoyltransferase 2, and acyl-coenzyme A oxidase 1, palmitoyl) were attenuated in FABP1 T94A hepatocytes. Although the phenotype of FABP1 T94A variant human hepatocytes exhibits some similarities to that of FABP1-null or PPAR-α-null hepatocytes and mice, expression of FABP1 T94A variant did not abolish or reduce ligand binding. Thus the FABP1 T94A variant represents an altered/reduced function mutation resulting in TG accumulation.
Extracellular adenosine regulates colitis through effects on lymphoid and nonlymphoid cells
Authors: Kurtz Courtney C. , Drygiannakis Ioannis , Naganuma Makoto , Feldman Sanford , Bekiaris Vasileios , Linden Joel , Ware Carl F. , Ernst Peter B.
Published: May 2014

Adenosine is a purine metabolite that can mediate anti-inflammatory responses in the digestive tract through the A2A adenosine receptor (A2AAR). We examined the role of this receptor in the control of inflammation in the adoptive transfer model of colitis. Infection of A2AAR−/− mice with Helicobacter hepaticus increased colonic inflammation scores compared with uninfected A2AAR controls. Comparison of T cell subsets in wild-type and A2AAR−/− mice revealed differences in markers associated with activated helper T (Th) cells and regulatory T (Treg) cells. Previous studies showed that expression of A2AAR on CD45RBHI and CD45RBLO Th cells is essential for the proper regulation of colonic inflammation. Adoptive transfer of CD45RBHI with CD45RBLO from wild-type mice into RAG1−/−/A2AAR−/− mice induced severe disease within 3 wk, although transfer of the same subsets into RAG1−/− mice does not induce colitis. This suggests that the presence of A2AAR on recipient cells is also important for controlling colitis. To investigate the role of A2AAR in myeloid cells, chimeric recipients were generated by injection of bone marrow from RAG1−/− or RAG1−/−/A2AAR−/− mice into irradiated RAG1−/− mice. After adoptive transfer, these recipients did not develop colitis, regardless of A2AAR expression by the donor. Together, our results suggest that the control of inflammation in vivo is dependent on A2AAR signaling through multiple cell types that collaborate in the regulation of colitis by responding to extracellular adenosine.
Reductions in central venous pressure by lower body negative pressure or blood loss elicit similar hemodynamic responses
Authors: Johnson Blair D. , van Helmond Noud , Curry Timothy B. , van Buskirk Camille M. , Convertino Victor A. , Joyner Michael J.
Published: May 2014

The purpose of this study was to compare hemodynamic and blood analyte responses to reduced central venous pressure (CVP) and pulse pressure (PP) elicited during graded lower body negative pressure (LBNP) to those observed during graded blood loss (BL) in conscious humans. We hypothesized that the stimulus-response relationships of CVP and PP to hemodynamic responses during LBNP would mimic those observed during BL. We assessed CVP, PP, heart rate, mean arterial pressure (MAP), and other hemodynamic markers in 12 men during LBNP and BL. Blood samples were obtained for analysis of catecholamines, hematocrit, hemoglobin, arginine vasopressin, and blood gases. LBNP consisted of 5-min stages at 0, 15, 30, and 45 mmHg of suction. BL consisted of 5 min at baseline and following three stages of 333 ml of hemorrhage (1,000 ml total). Individual r2 values and linear regression slopes were calculated to determine whether the stimulus (CVP and PP)-hemodynamic response trajectories were similar between protocols. The CVP-MAP trajectory was the only CVP-response slope that was statistically different during LBNP compared with BL (0.93 ± 0.27 vs. 0.13 ± 0.26; P = 0.037). The PP-heart rate trajectory was the only PP-response slope that was statistically different during LBNP compared with BL (−1.85 ± 0.45 vs. −0.46 ± 0.27; P = 0.024). Norepinephrine, hematocrit, and hemoglobin were all lower at termination in the BL protocol compared with LBNP ( P < 0.05). Consistent with our hypothesis, LBNP mimics the hemodynamic stimulus-response trajectories observed during BL across a significant range of CVP in humans.
Differential regulation of the fiber type-specific gene expression of the sarcoplasmic reticulum calcium-ATPase isoforms induced by exercise training
Authors: Morissette Marc P. , Susser Shanel E. , Stammers Andrew N. , O'Hara Kimberley A. , Gardiner Phillip F. , Sheppard Patricia , Moffatt Teri L. , Duhamel Todd A.
Published: May 2014

The regulatory role of adenosine monophosphate-activated protein kinase (AMPK)-α2on sarcoplasmic reticulum calcium-ATPase (SERCA) 1a and SERCA2a in different skeletal muscle fiber types has yet to be elucidated. Sedentary (Sed) or exercise-trained (Ex) wild-type (WT) and AMPKα2-kinase dead (KD) transgenic mice, which overexpress a mutated and inactivated AMPKα2subunit, were utilized to characterize how genotype or exercise training influenced the regulation of SERCA isoforms in gastrocnemius. As expected, both Sed and Ex KD mice had >40% lower AMPK phosphorylation and 30% lower SERCA1a protein than WT mice ( P < 0.05). In contrast, SERCA2a protein was not different among KD and WT mice. Exercise increased SERCA1a and SERCA2a protein content among WT and KD mice, compared with their Sed counterparts. Maximal SERCA activity was lower in KD mice, compared with WT. Total phospholamban protein was higher in KD mice than in WT and lower in Ex compared with Sed mice. Exercise training increased phospholamban Ser16phosphorylation in WT mice. Laser capture microdissection and quantitative PCR indicated that SERCA1a mRNA expression among type I fibers was not altered by genotype or exercise, but SERCA2a mRNA was increased 30-fold in WT+Ex, compared with WT+Sed. In contrast, the exercise-stimulated increase for SERCA2a mRNA was blunted in KD mice. Exercise upregulated SERCA1a and SERCA2a mRNA among type II fibers, but was not altered by genotype. Collectively, these data suggest that exercise differentially influences SERCA isoform expression in type I and type II fibers. Additionally, AMPKα2influences the regulation of SERCA2a mRNA in type I skeletal muscle fibers following exercise training.
Ventricular structure, function, and mechanics at high altitude: chronic remodeling in Sherpa vs. short-term lowlander adaptation
Authors: Stembridge Mike , Ainslie Philip N. , Hughes Michael G. , Stöhr Eric J. , Cotter James D. , Nio Amanda Q. X. , Shave Rob
Published: May 2014

Short-term, high-altitude (HA) exposure raises pulmonary artery systolic pressure (PASP) and decreases left-ventricular (LV) volumes. However, relatively little is known of the long-term cardiac consequences of prolonged exposure in Sherpa, a highly adapted HA population. To investigate short-term adaptation and potential long-term cardiac remodeling, we studied ventricular structure and function in Sherpa at 5,050 m ( n = 11; 31 ± 13 yr; mass 68 ± 10 kg; height 169 ± 6 cm) and lowlanders at sea level (SL) and following 10 ± 3 days at 5,050 m ( n = 9; 34 ± 7 yr; mass 82 ± 10 kg; height 177 ± 6 cm) using conventional and speckle-tracking echocardiography. At HA, PASP was higher in Sherpa and lowlanders compared with lowlanders at SL (both P < 0.05). Sherpa had smaller right-ventricular (RV) and LV stroke volumes than lowlanders at SL with lower RV systolic strain ( P < 0.05) but similar LV systolic mechanics. In contrast to LV systolic mechanics, LV diastolic, untwisting velocity was significantly lower in Sherpa compared with lowlanders at both SL and HA. After partial acclimatization, lowlanders demonstrated no change in the RV end-diastolic area; however, both RV strain and LV end-diastolic volume were reduced. In conclusion, short-term hypoxia induced a reduction in RV systolic function that was also evident in Sherpa following chronic exposure. We propose that this was consequent to a persistently higher PASP. In contrast to the RV, remodeling of LV volumes and normalization of systolic mechanics indicate structural and functional adaptation to HA. However, altered LV diastolic relaxation after chronic hypoxic exposure may reflect differential remodeling of systolic and diastolic LV function.
Genomic Rearrangements Define Lineage Relationships between Adjacent Lepidic and Invasive Components in Lung Adenocarcinoma
Authors: Murphy Stephen J. , Wigle Dennis A. , Lima Joema Felipe , Harris Faye R. , Johnson Sarah H. , Halling Geoffrey , Asiedu Michael K. , Seto Charlie T. , Terra Simone , Kosari Farhad , Peikert Tobias , Yang Ping , Aubry Marie-Christine , Vasmatzis George
Published: May 2014

The development of adenocarcinoma of the lung is believed to proceed from in situ disease (adenocarcinoma in situ, AIS) to minimally invasive disease with prominent lepidic growth (minimally invasive adenocarcinoma, MIA), then to fully invasive adenocarcinoma (AD), but direct evidence for this model has been lacking. Because some lung adenocarcinomas show prominent lepidic growth (AD-L), we designed a study to address the lineage relationship between the lepidic (noninvasive) component (L) and the adjacent nonlepidic growth component representing invasive disease within individual tumors. Lineage relationships were evaluated by next-generation DNA sequencing to define large genomic rearrangements in microdissected tissue specimens collected by laser capture. We found a strong lineage relationship between the majority of adjacent lepidic and invasive components, supporting a putative AIS–AD transition. Notably, many rearrangements were detected in the less aggressive lepidic component, although the invasive component exhibited an overall higher rate of genomic rearrangement. Furthermore, a significant number of genomic rearrangements were present in histologically normal lung adjacent to tumor, but not in host germline DNA, suggesting field defects restricted to zonal regions near a tumor. Our results offer a perspective on the genetic pathogenesis underlying adenocarcinoma development and its clinical management. Cancer Res; 74(11); 3157–67. ©2014 AACR.
miR-155 Drives Telomere Fragility in Human Breast Cancer by Targeting TRF1
Authors: Dinami Roberto , Ercolani Cristiana , Petti Eleonora , Piazza Silvano , Ciani Yari , Sestito Rosanna , Sacconi Andrea , Biagioni Francesca , le Sage Carlos , Agami Reuven , Benetti Roberta , Mottolese Marcella , Schneider Claudio , Blandino Giovanni , Schoeftner Stefan
Published: May 2014

Telomeres consist of DNA tandem repeats that recruit the multiprotein complex shelterin to build a chromatin structure that protects chromosome ends. Although cancer formation is linked to alterations in telomere homeostasis, there is little understanding of how shelterin function is limited in cancer cells. Using a small-scale screening approach, we identified miR-155 as a key regulator in breast cancer cell expression of the shelterin component TERF1 (TRF1). miR-155 targeted a conserved sequence motif in the 3′UTR of TRF1, resulting in its translational repression. miR-155 was upregulated commonly in breast cancer specimens, as associated with reduced TRF1 protein expression, metastasis-free survival, and relapse-free survival in estrogen receptor–positive cases. Modulating miR-155 expression in cells altered TRF1 levels and TRF1 abundance at telomeres. Compromising TRF1 expression by elevating miR-155 increased telomere fragility and altered the structure of metaphase chromosomes. In contrast, reducing miR-155 levels improved telomere function and genomic stability. These results implied that miR-155 upregulation antagonizes telomere integrity in breast cancer cells, increasing genomic instability linked to poor clinical outcome in estrogen receptor–positive disease. Our work argued that miRNA-dependent regulation of shelterin function has a clinically significant impact on telomere function, suggesting the existence of “telo-miRNAs” that have an impact on cancer and aging. Cancer Res; 74(15); 4145–56. ©2014 AACR.
A Recombinant Reporter System for Monitoring Reactivation of an Endogenously DNA Hypermethylated Gene
Authors: Cui Ying , Hausheer Frederick , Beaty Robert , Zahnow Cynthia , Issa Jean Pierre , Bunz Frederick , Baylin Stephen B.
Published: May 2014

Reversing abnormal gene silencing in cancer cells due to DNA hypermethylation of promoter CpG islands may offer new cancer prevention or therapeutic approaches. Moreover, such approaches may be broadly applicable to enhance the efficacy of radiotherapy, chemotherapy, or immunotherapy. Here, we demonstrate the powerful utility of a novel gene reporter system to permit studies of the dynamics, mechanisms, and translational relevance of candidate therapies of this type in human colon cancer cells. The reporter system is based on in situ modification of the endogenous locus of the tumor-suppressor gene SFRP1, a pivotal regulator of the Wnt pathway that is silenced by DNA hypermethylation in many colon cancers. The modified SFRP1-GFP reporter allele used remained basally silent, like the unaltered allele, and it was activated only by drug treatments that derepress gene silencing by reversing DNA hypermethylation. We used the established DNA methyltransferase inhibitor (DNMTi) 5-aza-deoxycitidine (DAC) to show how this system can be used to address key questions in the clinical development of epigenetic cancer therapies. First, we defined conditions for which clinically relevant dosing could induce sustained induction of RNA and protein. Second, we found that, in vivo, a more prolonged drug exposure than anticipated was essential to derepress gene silencing in significant cell numbers, and this has implications for generating effective anticancer responses in patients with hematopoietic or solid tumors. Finally, we discovered how histone deacetylase inhibitors (HDACi) alone, when administered to cells actively replicating DNA, can robustly reexpress the silenced gene with no change in promoter methylation status. Taken together, our findings offer a new tool and insights for devising optimal clinical experiments to evaluate DNMTi and HDACi, alone or in combination, and with other cancer treatments, as agents for the epigenetic management and prevention of cancer. Cancer Res; 74(14); 3834–43. ©2014 AACR.
Breast Cancer Risk after Occupational Solvent Exposure: the Influence of Timing and Setting
Authors: Ekenga Christine C. , Parks Christine G. , D'Aloisio Aimee A. , DeRoo Lisa A. , Sandler Dale P.
Published: May 2014

Organic solvents are ubiquitous in occupational settings where they may contribute to risks for carcinogenesis. However, there is limited information on organic solvents as human breast carcinogens. We examined the relationship between occupational exposure to solvents and breast cancer in a prospective study of 47,661 women with an occupational history in the Sister Study cohort. Occupational solvent exposure was categorized using self-reported job-specific solvent use collected at baseline. Multivariable Cox regression analyses were used to assess breast cancer risk, adjusting for established breast cancer risk factors. A total of 1,798 women were diagnosed with breast cancer during follow-up, including 1,255 invasive cases. Overall the risk of invasive breast cancer was not associated with lifetime exposure to solvents [HR, 1.04; 95% confidence interval (CI), 0.88–1.24]. Parous women who worked with solvents before their first full-term birth had an increased risk of estrogen receptor–positive invasive breast cancer compared with women who never worked with solvents (HR, 1.39; 95% CI, 1.03–1.86). A significantly elevated risk for estrogen receptor–positive invasive breast cancer was associated with solvent exposure among clinical laboratory technologists and technicians (HR, 2.00; 95% CI, 1.07–3.73). Occupational exposure to solvents before first birth, a critical period of breast tissue differentiation, may result in increased vulnerability for breast cancer. Our findings suggest a need for future studies in this area to focus on exposure time windows and solvent types in different occupational settings. Cancer Res; 74(11); 3076–83. ©2014 AACR.
Long-term Ultraviolet Flux, Other Potential Risk Factors, and Skin Cancer Risk: A Cohort Study
Authors: Wu Shaowei , Han Jiali , Laden Francine , Qureshi Abrar A.
Published: May 2014

Background: Few prospective studies have examined the relationship between sun exposure, other potential risk factors, and risk of different skin cancers [including basal cell carcinoma (BCC), squamous cell carcinoma (SCC), and melanoma] simultaneously.

Methods: We evaluated the association between a number of potential risk factors and skin cancer risk in a cohort of 108,916 US women, the Nurses' Health Study II (1989–2009).

Results: During 2.05 million years of follow-up, we identified 6,955, 880, and 779 diagnoses of BCC, SCC, and melanoma, respectively. Compared with participants in the lowest quintile of cumulative ultraviolet flux in adulthood, participants in the highest quintile had multivariable-adjusted relative risks (RR) of 2.35 (Ptrend < 0.0001) for BCC, 2.53 (Ptrend = 0.009) for SCC, and 0.68 (Ptrend = 0.38) for melanoma. In contrast, the RRs were 1.68 (95% CI, 1.55–1.82) for BCC, 1.68 (95% CI, 1.34–2.11) for SCC, and 1.80 (95% CI, 1.42–2.28) for melanoma for participants with ≥5 blistering sunburns when compared with participants without sunburn between ages 15 and 20 years. We found significant interactions between family history of melanoma, number of blistering sunburns between ages 15 and 20 years and BCC risk, and between sunburn reaction as a child/adolescent and SCC risk (all Pinteraction < 0.05).

Conclusion: In a cohort of U.S. women, we found that sun exposures in both early life and adulthood were predictive of BCC and SCC risks, whereas melanoma risk was predominantly associated with sun exposure in early life.

Impact: Our results may have potential implications for the prevention of skin cancers. Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev; 23(6); 1080–9. ©2014 AACR.