bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Determinants of poor adherence to secondary antibiotic prophylaxis for rheumatic fever recurrence on Lifou, New Caledonia: a retrospective cohort study
Authors: Gasse Brunelle , Baroux Noémie , Rouchon Bernard , Meunier Jean-Michel , Frémicourt Isabelle De , D’Ortenzio Eric
Published: February 2013

Background

Incidence of acute rheumatic fever (ARF) and prevalence of rheumatic heart disease (RHD) in the Pacific region, including New Caledonia, are amongst the highest in the world. The main priority of long-term management of ARF or RHD is to ensure secondary prophylaxis is adhered to. The objectives of this study were to evaluate rates of adherence in people receiving antibiotic prophylaxis by intramuscular injections of penicillin in Lifou and to determine the factors associated with a poor adherence in this population.

Methods

We conducted a retrospective cohort study and we included 70 patients receiving injections of antibiotic prophylaxis to prevent ARF recurrence on the island of Lifou. Patients were classified as “good-adherent” when the rate of adherence was ≥80% of the expected injections and as “poor-adherent” when it was <80%. Statistical analysis to identify factors associated with adherence was performed using a multivariate logistic regression model.

Results

Our study showed that 46% of patients from Lifou receiving antibiotic prophylaxis for ARF or RHD had a rate of adherence <80% and were therefore at high risk of recurrence of ARF. Three independent factors were protective against poor adherence: a household with more than five people (odds ratio, 0.25; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.08 to 0.75), a previous medical history of symptomatic ARF (odds ratio, 0.20; 95% CI, 0.04 to 0.98) and an adequate healthcare coverage (odds ratio, 0.21; 95% CI 0.06 to 0.72).

Conclusions

To improve adherence to secondary prophylaxis in Lifou, we therefore propose the following recommendations arising from the results of this study: i) identifying patients receiving antibiotic prophylaxis without medical history of ARF to strengthen their therapeutic education and ii) improving the medical coverage in patients with ARF or RHD. We also recommend that the nurse designated for the ARF prevention program in Lifou coordinate an active recall system based on an updated local register. But the key point to improve adherence among Melanesian patients is probably to give appropriate information regarding the disease and the treatment, taking into account the Melanesian perceptions of the disease.
Overexpression of p65 attenuates celecoxib-induced cell death in MDA-MB-231 human breast cancer cell line
Authors: Wang Ling , Kang Fubiao , Li Jie , Zhang Jing , Shan Baoen
Published: February 2013

Background

Celecoxib is a selective cyclooxygenase (COX)-2 inhibitor that has been reported to reduce the risk of breast cancer. In our previous study, celecoxib induced apoptosis and caused cell cycle arrest at the G0/G1 phase in the breast cancer cell line MDA-MB-231, and its effects were mediated by downregulation of NF-κB signaling. The NF-κB p65/RelA subunit may play a role in cell death through the activation of anti-apoptotic target genes including the inhibitor of apoptosis (IAP) and Bcl-2 families, and inhibition of protein kinase B/Akt. The aim of the present study was to investigate p65 as the potential target of celecoxib treatment and determine whether p65 overexpression can override the inhibitory effect of celecoxib on NF-κB activity and affect cell survival.

Methods

The effects of p65 overexpression on celecoxib-inhibited NF-κB transcriptional activity were examined by western blotting, electrophoretic mobility shift assay (EMSA) and luciferase reporter gene assay. Cell viability and cell death were evaluated by the 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazoliumbromide (MTT) assay, and the levels of cleaved poly(ADP-ribose) polymerase (PARP) and caspase. Anti-apoptotic NF-κB target genes and cell cycle regulators were examined by western blotting to screen for the expression of target genes under direct regulation by p65.

Results

Overexpression of p65 increased NF-κB transcriptional activity and interfered with celecoxib-mediated apoptosis as assessed by MTT assay and caspase-3, caspase-9, and PARP expressions. Exogenously overexpressed p65 upregulated NF-κB-responsive genes, including anti-apoptotic genes such as survivin and XIAP, and the cell cycle regulatory gene cyclin D1. However, p65 overexpression did not affect celecoxib-induced p-Akt inactivation, suggesting that celecoxib might have separate molecular mechanisms for regulating Akt signaling independently of its inhibition of NF-κB transcriptional activity.

Conclusions

p65 is a pivotal anti-apoptotic factor that can reverse celecoxib-induced growth inhibition in MDA-MB-231 cells.
Barth syndrome
Authors: Clarke Sarah LN , Bowron Ann , Gonzalez Iris L , Groves Sarah J , Newbury-Ecob Ruth , Clayton Nicol , Martin Robin P , Tsai-Goodman Beverly , Garratt Vanessa , Ashworth Michael , Bowen Valerie M , McCurdy Katherine R , Damin Michaela K , Spencer Carolyn T , Toth Matthew J , Kelley Richard I , Steward Colin G
Published: February 2013

First described in 1983, Barth syndrome (BTHS) is widely regarded as a rare X-linked genetic disease characterised by cardiomyopathy (CM), skeletal myopathy, growth delay, neutropenia and increased urinary excretion of 3-methylglutaconic acid (3-MGCA). Fewer than 200 living males are known worldwide, but evidence is accumulating that the disorder is substantially under-diagnosed. Clinical features include variable combinations of the following wide spectrum: dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM), hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM), endocardial fibroelastosis (EFE), left ventricular non-compaction (LVNC), ventricular arrhythmia, sudden cardiac death, prolonged QTc interval, delayed motor milestones, proximal myopathy, lethargy and fatigue, neutropenia (absent to severe; persistent, intermittent or perfectly cyclical), compensatory monocytosis, recurrent bacterial infection, hypoglycaemia, lactic acidosis, growth and pubertal delay, feeding problems, failure to thrive, episodic diarrhoea, characteristic facies, and X-linked family history. Historically regarded as a cardiac disease, BTHS is now considered a multi-system disorder which may be first seen by many different specialists or generalists. Phenotypic breadth and variability present a major challenge to the diagnostician: some children with BTHS have never been neutropenic, whereas others lack increased 3-MGCA and a minority has occult or absent CM. Furthermore, BTHS was first described in 2010 as an unrecognised cause of fetal death. Disabling mutations or deletions of thetafazzin(TAZ) gene, located at Xq28, cause the disorder by reducing remodeling of cardiolipin, a principal phospholipid of the inner mitochondrial membrane. A definitive biochemical test, based on detecting abnormal ratios of different cardiolipin species, was first described in 2008. Key areas of differential diagnosis include metabolic and viral cardiomyopathies, mitochondrial diseases, and many causes of neutropenia and recurrent male miscarriage and stillbirth. Cardiolipin testing andTAZsequencing now provide relatively rapid diagnostic testing, both prospectively and retrospectively, from a range of fresh or stored tissues, blood or neonatal bloodspots.TAZsequencing also allows female carrier detection and antenatal screening. Management of BTHS includes medical therapy of CM, cardiac transplantation (in 14% of patients), antibiotic prophylaxis and granulocyte colony-stimulating factor (G-CSF) therapy. Multidisciplinary teams/clinics are essential for minimising hospital attendances and allowing many more individuals with BTHS to live into adulthood.
An experimental study on tuned liquid damper for mitigation of structural response
Authors: Bhattacharjee Emili , Halder Lipika , Sharma Richi Prasad
Published: February 2013

This paper investigates the performance of unidirectional tuned liquid damper (TLD) that relies upon the motion of shallow liquid in a rigid tank for changing the dynamic characteristics of a structure and dissipating its vibration energy under harmonic excitation. A series of experimental tests are conducted on a scaled model of structure-tuned liquid damper systems to evaluate their performance under harmonic excitation. One rectangular and one square TLD with various water depth ratios are examined over different frequency ratios, and time histories of accelerations are measured by precisely controlled shaking table tests. The behaviour of TLD is also studied by changing the orientation of the rectangular TLD subjected to the given range of harmonic excitation frequencies. The effectiveness of TLD is evaluated based on the response reduction of the structure. From the study, it is found that for each TLD, there exists an optimum water depth that corresponds to the minimum response amplitude, and the maximum control of vibration is obtained under resonance condition with the attachment of TLD.
Agonist and antagonist binding to the nuclear vitamin D receptor: dynamics, mutation effects and functional implications
Authors: Yaghmaei Sepideh , Roberts Christopher , Ai Rizi , Mizwicki Mathew T , Chang Chia-en A
Published: February 2013

Purpose

The thermodynamically favored complex between the nuclear vitamin D receptor (VDR) and 1α,25(OH)2-vitamin D3(1,25D3) triggers a shift in equilibrium to favor VDR binding to DNA, heterodimerization with the nuclear retinoid x receptor (RXR) and subsequent regulation of gene transcription. The key amino acids and structural requirements governing VDR binding to nuclear coactivators (NCoA) are well defined. Yet very little is understood about the internal changes in amino acid flexibility underpinning the control of ligand affinity, helix 12 conformation and function. Herein, we use molecular dynamics (MD) to study how the backbone and side-chain flexibility of the VDR differs when a) complexed to 1α,25(OH)2-vitamin D3(1,25D3, agonist) and (23S),25-dehydro-1α(OH)-vitamin D3-26,23-lactone (MK, antagonist); b) residues that form hydrogen bonds with the C25-OH (H305 and H397) of 1,25D3 are mutated to phenylalanine; c) helix 12 conformation is changed and ligand is removed; and d) x-ray water near the C1- and C3-OH groups of 1,25D3 are present or replaced with explicit solvent.

Methods

We performed molecular dynamic simulations on the apo- and holo-VDRs and used T-Analyst to monitor the changes in the backbone and side-chain flexibility of residues that form regions of the VDR ligand binding pocket (LBP), NCoA surface and control helix 12 conformation.

Results

The VDR-1,25D3 and VDR-MK MD simulations demonstrate that 1,25D3 and MK induce highly similar changes in backbone and side-chain flexibility in residues that form the LBP. MK however did increase the backbone and side-chain flexibility of L404 and R274 respectively. MK also induced expansion of the VDR charge clamp (i.e. NCoA surface) and weakened the intramolecular interaction between H305---V418 (helix 12) and TYR401 (helix 11). In VDR_FF, MK induced a generally more rigid LBP and stronger interaction between F397 and F422 than 1,25D3, and reduced the flexibility of the R274 side-chain. Lastly the VDR MD simulations indicate that R274 can sample multiple conformations in the presence of ligand. When the R274 is extended, the β-OH group of 1,25D3 lies proximal to the backbone carbonyl oxygen of R274 and the side-chain forms H-bonds with hinge domain residues. This differs from the x-ray, kinked geometry, where the side-chain forms an H-bond with the 1α-OH group. Furthermore, 1,25D3, but not MK was observed to stabilize the x-ray geometry of R274 during the > 30 ns MD runs.

Conclusions

The MD methodology applied herein provides an in silico foundation to be expanded upon to better understand the intrinsic flexibility of the VDR and better understand key side-chain and backbone movements involved in the bimolecular interaction between the VDR and its’ ligands.
Rietveld analysis of XRD patterns of different sizes of nanocrystalline cobalt ferrite
Authors: Kumar Lawrence , Kumar Pawan , Narayan Amarendra , Kar Manoranjan
Published: February 2013

Nanocrystalline cobalt ferrite powder has been synthesised by citrate precursor and co-precipitation methods. Structural characterization of the samples has been carried out using powder X-ray diffraction, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR) and field emission scanning electron microscope (FE-SEM). Distribution of cations among the two interstitial sites (tetrahedral and octahedral sites) has been estimated by analysing the powder X-ray diffraction patterns by employing Rietveld refinement technique, and the results reveal the existence of samples as a mixed type spinel with cubic structure. It is observed that the distribution of cations and structural parameters are strongly dependent on synthesis method and annealing temperature. The vibrational modes of the octahedral and tetrahedral metal complex in the sample have been examined using FT-IR in the wave number range of 390 to 750 cm−1, and it shows an absorption band within this range, which confirms the spinel structure of the sample. The existence of constituents in the sample, i.e., Co, Fe and O has been authenticated using energy dispersive spectrum with the help of a FE-SEM.
Micelles, mixed micelles, and applications of polyoxypropylene (PPO)-polyoxyethylene (PEO)-polyoxypropylene (PPO) triblock polymers
Authors: Singh Vijender , Khullar Poonam , Dave Pragnesh N , Kaur Navjot
Published: February 2013

This review gives a brief outline of various micellar properties of triblock polymers such as critical micellization concentration, critical micellization temperature, and microviscosity. Detailed discussion of the effect of temperature on micellar properties of various triblock polymer mixtures is given. Applications of triblock polymers in solubilization as drug delivery agents, as nano drug, for the synthesis of gold nanoparticles, for cobalt determination, etc. are discussed.
New Staging System: How Does It Affect Our Practice?
Authors: Goldstraw Peter
Published: February 2013

The anatomic extent of disease, as described by the TNM classification, remains the most powerful prognostic indicator for lung cancer. It is used daily by specialists in all branches of lung cancer care and research. Any new edition of the TNM classification is therefore an important event in the thoracic oncology community and one greeted with mixed feelings. The changes introduced in the seventh edition were the first for 13 years and arguably the most profound since the first data-driven revision more than 40 years earlier. Inevitably there will be concerns that any change in the T, N, or M descriptors and resultant stage groupings will have implications for previous treatment pathways. In this article, the changes to the classification are described, and their possible impacts on clinical care and research are discussed.
New Targetable Oncogenes in Non–Small-Cell Lung Cancer
Authors: Oxnard Geoffrey R. , Binder Adam , Jänne Pasi A.
Published: February 2013

The identification of oncogenic driver mutations underlying sensitivity to epidermal growth factor receptor and anaplastic lymphoma kinase tyrosine kinase inhibitors has led to a surge of interest in identifying additional targetable oncogenes in non–small-cell lung cancer. A number of new potentially oncogenic gene alterations have been characterized in recent years, including BRAF mutations, HER2 insertions, PIK3CA mutations, FGFR1 amplifications, DDR2 mutations, ROS1 rearrangements, and RET rearrangements. In this review, we will discuss the techniques used to discover each of these candidate oncogenes, the prevalence of each in non–small-cell lung cancer, the preclinical data supporting their role in lung cancer, and data on small molecular inhibitors in development.
Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor Tyrosine Kinase Inhibitor–Resistant Disease
Authors: Ohashi Kadoaki , Maruvka Yosef E. , Michor Franziska , Pao William
Published: February 2013

Purpose

EGFR-mutant lung cancer was first described as a new clinical entity in 2004. Here, we present an update on new controversies and conclusions regarding the disease.

Methods

This article reviews the clinical implications of EGFR mutations in lung cancer with a focus on epidermal growth factor receptor tyrosine kinase inhibitor resistance.

Results

The discovery of EGFR mutations has altered the ways in which we consider and treat non–small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC). Patients whose metastatic tumors harbor EGFR mutations are expected to live longer than 2 years, more than double the previous survival rates for lung cancer.

Conclusion

The information presented in this review can guide practitioners and help them inform their patients about EGFR mutations and their impact on the treatment of NSCLC. Efforts should now concentrate on making EGFR-mutant lung cancer a chronic rather than fatal disease.
Role of Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor Inhibitors in Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor Wild-Type Non–Small-Cell Lung Cancer
Authors: Laurie Scott A. , Goss Glenwood D.
Published: February 2013

Worldwide, the majority of patients with advanced non–small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC) do not have activating mutations in the tyrosine kinase domain of the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR). These wild-type patients comprise a significant proportion of those treated with inhibitors of this pathway, and data from randomized trials suggest that some of these wild-type patients will derive a modest benefit from these agents. Although the detection of an activating mutation predicts for a greater likelihood of response and longer progression-free survival from an EGFR tyrosine kinase inhibitor, currently there are no biomarkers that consistently and reproducibly predict for lack of benefit in wild-type patients. Several strategies to increase the efficacy of these inhibitors in wild-type NSCLC are the subject of ongoing investigations.
Final Results of Phase III SYMMETRY Study: Randomized, Double-Blind Trial of Elesclomol Plus Paclitaxel Versus Paclitaxel Alone As Treatment for Chemotherapy-Naive Patients With Advanced Melanoma
Authors: O'Day Steven J. , Eggermont Alexander M.M. , Chiarion-Sileni Vanna , Kefford Richard , Grob Jean Jacques , Mortier Laurent , Robert Caroline , Schachter Jacob , Testori Alessandro , Mackiewicz Jacek , Friedlander Philip , Garbe Claus , Ugurel Selma , Collichio Frances , Guo Wei , Lufkin Joelle , Bahcall Safi , Vukovic Vojo , Hauschild Axel
Published: February 2013

Purpose

Elesclomol, an investigational first-in-class compound, induces oxidative stress, triggers mitochondrial-induced apoptosis in cancer cells, and shows synergy with taxanes in tumor models. Following completion of a phase II trial of elesclomol in combination with paclitaxel that met its primary end point of progression-free survival (PFS), this randomized, double-blind, controlled phase III study was conducted to confirm the efficacy and tolerability of elesclomol in combination with paclitaxel versus paclitaxel alone in patients with advanced melanoma.

Patients and Methods

Patients with stage IV chemotherapy-naive melanoma (n = 651) were randomly assigned 1:1 to paclitaxel 80 mg/m2 either alone or in combination with elesclomol 213 mg/m2 administered weekly for 3 weeks of a 4-week cycle. Patients were stratified by prior systemic treatment, M1 subclass, and baseline lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) levels. The primary end point was PFS.

Results

The study did not achieve its PFS end point (hazard ratio, 0.89; P = .23). The study was stopped when an early overall survival data analysis indicated an imbalance in total deaths favoring paclitaxel, predominantly in patients with high LDH levels. A prospectively defined subgroup analysis revealed a statistically significant improvement in median PFS for the combination in patients with normal baseline LDH.

Conclusion

The addition of elesclomol to paclitaxel did not significantly improve PFS in unselected patients with advanced melanoma. The association between baseline LDH and clinical outcomes suggests that LDH may be a predictive factor for treatment with this combination, consistent with recent findings on the association between elesclomol anticancer activity and cellular metabolic state.
Combination of Rituximab, Bendamustine, and Cytarabine for Patients With Mantle-Cell Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma Ineligible for Intensive Regimens or Autologous Transplantation
Authors: Visco Carlo , Finotto Silvia , Zambello Renato , Paolini Rossella , Menin Andrea , Zanotti Roberta , Zaja Francesco , Semenzato Gianpietro , Pizzolo Giovanni , D'Amore Emanuele S.G. , Rodeghiero Francesco
Published: February 2013

Purpose

The combination of bendamustine (B) and rituximab (R) is efficacious, with favorable toxicity in mantle-cell lymphoma (MCL). In this phase II study, we combined cytarabine with R and B (R-BAC) in patients with MCL age ≥ 65 years who were previously untreated or relapsed or refractory (R/R) after one prior immunochemotherapy treatment.

Patients and Methods

In stage one, we established the maximum-tolerated dose (MTD) of cytarabine in R-BAC. In stage two, patients received R (375 mg/m2 intravenously [IV] on day 1), B (70 mg/m2 IV on days 2 and 3), and cytarabine (MTD IV on days 2 to 4) every 28 days for four to six cycles. The primary end point (overall response rate [ORR]) was evaluated by positron emission tomography. Secondary end points included safety, progression-free survival (PFS), response duration, and overall survival.

Results

Forty patients (median age, 70 years; 20 previously untreated patients) were enrolled; 93% had Ann Arbor stage III/IV disease; 49% had high Mantle Cell International Prognostic Index scores, with 15% blastoid histology. All R/R patients (35% refractory) had previously received R-containing regimens. The cytarabine MTD used in stage two was 800 mg/m2, and R-BAC was well tolerated, with an 85% treatment completion rate. The major toxicity was transient grades 3 to 4 thrombocytopenia (87% of patients); febrile neutropenia occurred in 12%. The ORR was 100% (95% complete response [CR]) for previously untreated and 80% (70% CR) for R/R patients. The 2-year PFS rate (± standard deviation) was 95% ± 5% for untreated and 70% ± 10% for R/R patients.

Conclusion

R-BAC is well tolerated and active against MCL.
Auxin metabolism and homeostasis during plant development
Authors: Ljung Karin
Published: February 2013

Auxin plays important roles during the entire life span of a plant. This small organic acid influences cell division, cell elongation and cell differentiation, and has great impact on the final shape and function of cells and tissues in all higher plants. Auxin metabolism is not well understood but recent discoveries, reviewed here, have started to shed light on the processes that regulate the synthesis and degradation of this important plant hormone.
Deletion of integrin linked kinase in endothelial cells results in defective RTK signaling caused by caveolin 1 mislocalization
Authors: Malan Daniela , Elischer Andrea , Hesse Michael , Wickström Sara A. , Fleischmann Bernd K. , Bloch Wilhelm
Published: February 2013

Integrin linked kinase (ILK) connects the ILK-Pinch-Parvin complex with integrin adhesion sites. Because of the functional relevance of integrin-linked signaling for endothelial cell (EC) biology, we have explored this pathway in Ilk–/– embryonic stem (ES) cells differentiated into ECs and vessel-like structures. We have focused in particular on the mechanistic relevance of ILK-Pinch-Parvin complex-related signaling for EC development and tube formation. Our analysis revealed that the formation of vessel-like structures was strongly reduced in Ilk–/– ES cells and that this phenotype could be rescued by re-expression of ILK in ES cells. ECs were MACS sorted from wild-type (WT) and Ilk–/– ES cells and functional analysis using intracellular calcium imaging as the read-out yielded a complete lack of vascular endothelial growth factor- and epidermal growth factor-dependent responses. The possibility of a caveolin 1-related defect was investigated by transfecting WT and Ilk–/– ECs with a caveolin 1-EGFP fusion protein. Time-lapse microscopy showed that the prominent phenotype is due to altered dynamics of caveolin 1 and to a lack of positioning of caveolin 1 in the vicinity of the plasma membrane and that it is rescued by re-expressing ILK in the Ilk–/– ES cells. We also found that the defect is caused by the perturbed organization of microtubules and cortical actin filaments. Thus, ILK is required as a scaffold to allow actin-microtubule interactions and correct positioning of caveolin 1 close to the plasma membrane. This is crucial for signaling compartmentalization in ECs and explains the key role of ILK for EC development and function.
Rooting plant development
Authors: Scheres Ben
Published: February 2013

In 1993, we published a paper in Development detailing the anatomical structure of the Arabidopsis root. The paper described how root growth was maintained by the precisely tuned activity of a small set of ‘initials’, which acted as the source of dividing and differentiating cells, and how these stem cell-like cells surrounded a few infrequently dividing cells. This work underpinned subsequent research on root developmental biology and sparked a detailed molecular analysis of how stem cell groups are positioned and maintained in plants.
Clinico-socio-demographic profile and predictors of poor outcome in children with liver abscess: a hospital-based study in northern India
Authors: Ramachandran Smita , Mishra Kirtisudha , Choudhury Subhasis Roy , Saxena Rahul
Published: February 2013

Liver abscess (LA) is a common health problem among children in tropical countries. We conducted a prospective, observational study at a tertiary-care medical college in order to examine the clinico-socio-demographic profile and assess a possible association between certain predictors of a poor outcome in children admitted with LA. Of a total of 53 children, only 24.4% were malnourished. Staphylococcus aureus was the most common organism observed. Amoebic LA was noted in 7.5%. Right-sided pleural effusion was the most common complication recorded (20.7%). The most successful treatment modality was therapeutic percutaneous aspiration with antimicrobials (90.5% success). An elevated alkaline phosphatase and open surgery were associated with a poor outcome ( P = 0.04 in each case). The rate of hospital admissions of children with LA remains high and most are of pyogenic origin. Of the different treatment modalities, therapeutic aspiration along with antimicrobials achieved the best results. Raised alkaline phosphatase and open surgery were predictors of a poor outcome.
Water quality indices and benefit-cost analysis
Authors: Walsh Patrick J. , Wheeler William J.
Published: February 2013

The water quality index (WQI) has emerged as a central way to convey water quality information to policy makers and the general public and is regularly used in US EPA regulatory impact analysis. It is a compound indicator that aggregates information from several water quality parameters. Several recent studies have criticized the aggregation function of the EPA WQI, arguing that it suffers from “eclipsing” and other problems. Although past papers have compared various aggregation functions in the WQI (usually looking at correlation), this is the first paper to examine these functions in the context of benefit-cost analysis. Using data from the 2003 EPA CAFO rule, the present paper examines four aggregation functions and their impact on estimated benefits. Results indicate that the aggregation method can have a profound effect on benefits, with total benefit estimates varying from $82 million to $504 million dollars. The net benefits of the rule vary from negative to positive over this range of estimates. Furthermore, a sensitivity analysis does not find convincing evidence to substitute the current aggregation function, although several changes to the underlying WQI methodology may be warranted.
Recent results about the detection of unknown boundaries and inclusions in elastic plates
Authors: Morassi Antonino , Rosset Edi , Vessella Sergio
Published: February 2013

In this paper we review some recent results concerning
inverse problems for thin elastic plates. The plate is assumed to
be made by non-homogeneous linearly elastic material belonging to
a general class of anisotropy. A first group of results concerns
uniqueness and stability for the determination of unknown
boundaries, including the cases of cavities and rigid inclusions.
In the second group of results, we consider upper and lower
estimates of the area of unknown inclusions given in terms of the
work exerted by a couple field applied at the boundary of the
plate. In particular, we extend previous size estimates for
elastic inclusions to the case of cavities and rigid inclusions.
Safety factor determining for space trusses by non-linear analysis and artificial neural network method
Authors: Yadollahi Mehrzad Mohabbi , Karagöl Fatma , Kaygusuz Mehmet Akif , Polat Rıza , Demirboga Ramazan
Published: February 2013

Determining a feasible safety factor for space trusses is an important phase in structural analysis that could have economic benefits. We know there are many kinds of imperfections in structural elements, which include both material and geometric flaws. Predicting factual behavior of structures is very difficult and occasionally impossible. Elements with initial geometric imperfections in space trusses are a common phenomenon, in addition, equivalent initial geometric imperfections can be applied for modeling of residual stresses or eccentric loading effect. The number of members in the space structures is usually high as is the diversity in the kind of initial imperfection. Therefore, there is a high likelihood that models must be analyzed. The structure must be analyzed with non-linear methods, making these approaches time consuming, and potentially uneconomical. In this study, we selected 30 cases for random analysis based on Monte Carlo methods to find the bearing capacity of the space truss. We attained results from the LUSAS program LUSAS Modeller, Version 13, UK program and these were then exported as input data to the Artificial Neural Network (ANN) program. A reasonable neural network has been found of predicting another 30 cases for load bearing capacity without any analysis and only based on the neural network program. Finally, a new approach for determining the load capacity of the space trusses was extracted and we predicted the occurrence possibility of the convenience load bearing capacity in 60 cases.
Nanofluids
Authors: Prabhu K. Narayan
Published: February 2013

Description

Eleven peer-reviewed papers focus on the properties of nanofluid technology including: heat transfer/thermal transport, composition, applications, preparation, and characterization. Nanofluids have extensive applications as coolants in the electronic, nuclear, and heat treatment industry. They also enhance the lubricating properties of oils and reduce emissions in automobiles.

Papers cover
Comparison of the Performance of Copper Oxide Nanofluid with Water in Electronic Cooling
Authors: Namburu Praveen K. , Das K. Debendra , Vajjha S. Ravikanth
Published: February 2013

A numerical study to compare the performance of water and copper oxide (CuO) nanofluid flowing under laminar regime in a parallel-plate channel, serving as a heat sink in an electronic device, has been presented. The geometry considered here is commonly used in the design of heat sinks suitable for cooling an array of microprocessor chips for which air cooling is insufficient. The influence of nanofluids concentration on local and average skin friction coefficients, Nusselt numbers, and convective heat-transfer coefficients in the channel have been analyzed in detail. The increases in the skin friction and heat transfer with volumetric concentration of nanoparticles have been evaluated from numerical simulations in the Reynolds number range of 100 to 2000. The analysis shows that the flow in this heat sink is hydrodynamically and thermally developing, for which the axial variations of local skin friction and local Nusselt number are presented. As an example, computational results for an 8 % volumetric concentration of CuO nanofluid shows that at a Reynolds number of 2000, the average heat-transfer coefficient increases nearly by a factor of 2 in comparison with pure water. From a detailed analysis summarized in Table 2, it is observed that there is an increase in the pressure loss as the particle concentration increases. For the CuO nanofluid of dilute concentration of 2 %, a slightly higher pumping power of about 10 % compared to water is predicted. This may be tolerable for the thermal protection of expensive electronic chips, in applications where the chip cost is the dominant factor.
Flow Visualization, Critical Heat Flux Enhancement, and Transient Characteristics in Pool Boiling Using Nanofluids
Authors: Hegde Ramakrishna N. , Rao Shrikantha S. , Reddy R. P.
Published: February 2013

This paper presents the experimental outcome of a study of the pool boiling heat transfer characteristics of alumina and CuO nanofluid in distilled water using a 0.19 mm diameter NiCr wire. A series of experiments were conducted in order to visualize the flow, critical heat flux (CHF) enhancement, and transient characteristics of nanofluid. The boiling phenomenon was visualized using a 0.1 g/l concentration of alumina nanofluid. The average bubble diameter was measured and was found to increase with increased heat flux. The average bubble contact angle decreased from 69° during the initial stages of boiling to 33° at CHF. Massive vapour bubbles were observed on the test heater surface near the CHF, inducing vapour blankets and forming hot/dry spots. The increase in the CHF could be well explained by the hot/dry spot theory. Pool boiling experiments conducted using low volume concentrations of CuO-water nanofluid at atmospheric pressure in distilled water showed an increase in the CHF by 30 % at a 0.3 g/l concentration. The transient behaviour of nanofluid, examined by exposing the heater surface at a constant heat flux of 700 kW/m2, indicated CHF enhancement of 5.21 % to 6.77 % for the two time durations. Based on the experimental investigations, it was concluded that the CHF enhancement is due to nanoparticle coating, which changes the thickness of the surface as a function of time and surface wettability and corroborates the hot/dry spot theory.
Boundary-Layer Flow of a Nanofluid past a Stretching Sheet under Uniform Heat and Mass Flux
Authors: Khan W. A. , Pop I.
Published: February 2013

The steady boundary layer flow resulting from the stretching of a flat surface with a velocity proportional to the distance from a fixed point in a nanofluid under uniform heat and mass flux has been investigated numerically and using the nanofluid model proposed by Buongiorno (“Convective Transport in Nanofluids, ASME J. Heat Transfer, Vol. 128, 2006, pp. 240– 250). The effects of Brownian motion and thermophoresis are incorporated in the model in order to obtain similarity solutions of the governing equations in terms of different parameters. The variation of the reduced Nusselt and reduced Sherwood numbers with the Prandtl number (Pr) and the Lewis number (Le) for various values of the Brownian motion parameter (Nb) and the thermophoresis parameter (Nt) is presented in tabular and graphical forms. It was found that the reduced Nusselt number is a decreasing function of each parameter (Pr, Le, Nb, and Nt), whereas the reduced Sherwood number is an increasing function of Nb and a decreasing function of Nt for each Le and Pr number.
Use of Ultrasound Thermometry to Study Natural Convection in Opaque Nanofluids
Authors: Wong Kau-Fui V. , Bon Bradley L.
Published: February 2013

Nanofluids are being evaluated as alternative heat transfer fluids, and thus their behavior during storage or low velocity applications in which natural convection can be significant has to be known and documented. Buoyancy induced flows in rectangular enclosures using nanofluids can be studied experimentally using thermocouples, thermistors, surface heat flux sensors, and ultrasound thermometry. The effects of the mass fraction concentration of nanoparticles, the enclosure aspect ratio, and the inclination have been studied experimentally, but more could be done. The opacity of nanofluids does not permit the use of particle image velocimetry, laser induced fluorescence, or any other means of flow visualization or visual temperature measurement of the local fluid temperature. However, the temperature field can be observed using a non-invasive method such as ultra-sound thermometry. The experimental enclosure here was validated using water as the initial fluid; measured values of the local fluid temperature were compared with numerical simulations utilizing commercial software. Nanofluid mass fractions of 10% and 25% were used for comparative purposes to study the effects of concentration on the temperature field. Buoyancy force reversal effects were witnessed in both 10% and 25% concentrations. The nanofluid also prolonged the multicellular effects that occur in buoyancy inversion flows. A Rayleigh number inversion was observed with the 25% mass fraction nanofluid. The multicellular regime transitions to a boundary layer regime at about Ra = 1 × 107 when the aspect ratio is 2.625 and at about Ra = 2 × 108 when the aspect ratio is 1.000 for different concentrations of nanofluid. The observations could be physically explained. The current work confirms that temperature measurements of the flow field can be made to assess convective regimes and flow phenomena that induce significant temperature variations. The use of ultrasound thermometry is successfully demonstrated for opaque nanofluid.
Nucleate Pool Boiling Heat Transfer Correlation for TiO2-Water Nanofluids
Authors: Suriyawong A. , Dalkilic A. S. , Wongwises S.
Published: February 2013

This paper is a continuation of the authors' previous work on the nucleate pool boiling heat transfer of nanofluids [Suriyawong, A. and Wongwises, S., “Nucleate pool boiling heat transfer characteristics of TiO2-water nanofluids at very low concentrations,” Exp. Therm. Fluid Sci., Vol. 34, No. 8, 2010, pp. 992–999.] This study presents new correlation for predicting heat transfer coefficient for nucleate pool boiling of TiO2-water nanofluids at several low concentrations. Unlike most previous studies, the proposed correlation consists of various relevant factors. Two horizontal circular plates made from copper and aluminum with different surface roughness values are used as heating surfaces. Because the calculation concerns with properties of nanofluids, this research uses various correlations from previous studies to find the properties of nanofluids and the best one is selected for the presentation. Compared with measured data of nucleate pool boiling of water and nanofluids from present and previous studies, it was found that the developed correlation could be used for prediction at a certain level.
The effect of short-term nutritional supplementation of ewes with lupin grain (Lupinus luteus) on folliculogenesis, the concentrations of hormones and glucose in plasma and follicular fluid and the follicular levels of P450 aromatase and IRS-1, -2 and -4
Authors: Somchit-Assavacheep A , Campbell B K , Khalid M , Kendall N R , Scaramuzzi R J
Published: February 2013

An experiment was conducted on 48 ewes during follicular and luteal phases of the oestrous cycle to determine the effect of a 5-day lupin grain supplementation (500 g/day) on folliculogenesis, plasma concentrations of glucose, insulin, FSH and oestradiol-17β (E2), follicular fluid concentrations of glucose, E2, androstenedione and progesterone and the levels of P450aromatase and insulin receptor substrate 1 (IRS-1), -2 and -4 in theca and granulosa cells. Average weight did not differ between lupin-fed and control groups. The numbers of follicles were increased (P<0.05; χ2) in the lupin-fed group. The plasma concentrations of glucose (P<0.05; ANOVA) and insulin (P<0.001; ANOVA) were higher in lupin-fed ewes. The plasma concentrations of FSH were not different but those of E2were decreased (P<0.001) in the lupin-fed group. Both the follicular fluid concentration of E2(P<0.05) and the level of P450aromatase in granulosa cells (P<0.05; ANOVA) were decreased in the lupin-fed group, but only during the follicular phase. The level of P450aromatase in granulosa cells was positively correlated with the concentration of E2in follicular fluid (r=0.820;P<0.001; ANOVA). The levels of IRS-1 and -2 in theca and granulosa cell lysates were increased in the lupin-fed group. These data suggest that insulin has a local role in the control of folliculogenesis and is likely to be a mediator of the effects of dietary energy intake on ovulation rate. We suggest that insulin acting through IRS proteins mediates the reproductive actions of insulin in the follicle and that IRS-1 and -2 are nutritionally regulated mediators of the action of insulin in the follicle.
Expression of fragile X mental retardation protein and Fmr1 mRNA during folliculogenesis in the rat
Authors: Ferder Ianina , Parborell Fernanda , Sundblad Victoria , Chiauzzi Violeta , Gómez Karina , Charreau Eduardo H , Tesone Marta , Dain Liliana
Published: February 2013

Fragile X mental retardation protein (FMRP) belongs to a small family of RNA-binding proteins. Its absence or inactivity is responsible for fragile X syndrome, the most common cause of inherited mental retardation. Despite its ubiquitous expression, FMRP function and expression remain almost understudied in non-neuronal tissues, though previous studies on germline development during oogenesis may suggest a special function of this protein also in ovarian tissue. In addition, the well-documented association ofFMR1premutation state with fragile X-related premature ovarian insufficiency adds interest to the role of FMRP in ovarian physiology. The aim of the present work was to investigate the expression ofFmr1mRNA and its protein, FMRP, at different stages of rat follicular development. By immunohistochemical studies we demonstrated FMRP expression in granulosa, theca and germ cells in all stages of follicular development. In addition, changes inFmr1expression, both at the protein and mRNA levels, were observed. FMRP levels increased upon follicular development while preantral and early antral follicles presented similar levels ofFmr1transcripts with decreased expression in preovulatory follicles. These observations suggest thatFmr1expression in the ovary is regulated at different and perhaps independent levels. In addition, our results show expression of at least four different isoforms of FMRP during all stages of follicular growth with expression patterns that differ from those observed in brain and testis. Our study shows a regulated expression ofFmr1, both at mRNA and protein levels, during rat follicular development.
Extensive Transcript Diversity and Novel Upstream Open Reading Frame Regulation in Yeast
Authors: Waern Karl , Snyder Michael
Published: February 2013

To understand the diversity of transcripts in yeast (Saccharomyces cerevisiae) we analyzed the transcriptional landscapes for cells grown under 18 different environmental conditions. Each sample was analyzed using RNA-sequencing, and a total of 670,446,084 uniquely mapped reads and 377,263 poly-adenylated end tags were produced. Consistent with previous studies, we find that the majority of yeast genes are expressed under one or more different conditions. By directly comparing the 5′ and 3′ ends of the transcribed regions, we find extensive differences in transcript ends across many conditions, especially those of stationary phase, growth in grape juice, and salt stimulation, suggesting differential choice of transcription start and stop sites is pervasive in yeast. Relative to the exponential growth condition (i.e., YPAD), transcripts differing at the 5′ ends and 3′ ends are predicted to differ in their annotated start codon in 21 genes and their annotated stop codon in 63 genes. Many (431) upstream open reading frames (uORFs) are found in alternate 5′ ends and are significantly enriched in transcripts produced during the salt response. Mutational analysis of five genes with uORFs revealed that two sets of uORFs increase the expression of a reporter construct, indicating a role in activation which had not been reported previously, whereas two other uORFs decreased expression. In addition, RNA binding protein motifs are statistically enriched for alternate ends under many conditions. Overall, these results demonstrate enormous diversity of transcript ends, and that this heterogeneity is regulated under different environmental conditions. Moreover, transcript end diversity has important biological implications for the regulation of gene expression. In addition, our data also serve as a valuable resource for the scientific community.
Cytological Characterization and Allelism Testing of Anther Developmental Mutants Identified in a Screen of Maize Male Sterile Lines
Authors: Timofejeva Ljudmilla , Skibbe David S , Lee Sidae , Golubovskaya Inna , Wang Rachel , Harper Lisa , Walbot Virginia , Cande William Zacheus
Published: February 2013

Proper regulation of anther differentiation is crucial for producing functional pollen, and defects in or absence of any anther cell type result in male sterility. To deepen understanding of processes required to establish premeiotic cell fate and differentiation of somatic support cell layers a cytological screen of maize male-sterile mutants has been conducted which yielded 42 new mutants including 22 mutants with premeiotic cytological defects (increasing this class fivefold), 7 mutants with postmeiotic defects, and 13 mutants with irregular meiosis. Allelism tests with known and new mutants confirmed new alleles of four premeiotic developmental mutants, including two novel alleles of msca1 and single new alleles of ms32, ms8, and ocl4, and two alleles of the postmeiotic ms45. An allelic pair of newly described mutants was found. Premeiotic mutants are now classified into four categories: anther identity defects, abnormal anther structure, locular wall defects and premature degradation of cell layers, and/or microsporocyte collapse. The range of mutant phenotypic classes is discussed in comparison with developmental genetic investigation of anther development in rice and Arabidopsis to highlight similarities and differences between grasses and eudicots and within the grasses.
Fosmid-Based Structure-Function Analysis Reveals Functionally Distinct Domains in the Cytoplasmic Domain ofDrosophilaCrumbs
Authors: Klose Sven , Flores-Benitez David , Riedel Falko , Knust Elisabeth
Published: February 2013

The evolutionarily conserved transmembrane protein Crumbs is required for epithelial polarity and morphogenesis in the embryo, control of tissue size in imaginal discs and morphogenesis of photoreceptor cells, and prevents light-dependent retinal degeneration. The small cytoplasmic domain contains two highly conserved regions, a FERM (i.e., protein 4.1/ezrin/radixin/moesin)-binding and a PDZ (i.e., postsynaptic density/discs large/ZO-1)-binding domain. Using a fosmid-based transgenomic approach, we analyzed the role of the two domains during invagination of the tracheae and the salivary glands in the Drosophila embryo. We provide data to show that the PDZ-binding domain is essential for the maintenance of cell polarity in both tissues. In contrast, in embryos expressing a Crumbs protein with an exchange of a conserved Tyrosine residue in the FERM-binding domain to an Alanine, both tissues are internalized, despite some initial defects in apical constriction, phospho-Moesin recruitment, and coordinated invagination movements. However, at later stages these embryos fail to undergo dorsal closure, germ band retraction, and head involution. In addition, frequent defects in tracheal fusion were observed. These results suggest stage and/or tissue specific binding partners. We discuss the power of this fosmid-based system for detailed structure-function analyses in comparison to the UAS/Gal4 system.