bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Enterprise Information Security Management Based on Context-Aware RBAC and Communication Monitoring Technology
Authors: Wu Mei-Yu , Yu Ming-Hsien
Published: November 2013

Information technology has an enormous influence in many enterprises. Computers have not only become important devices that people rely on in their daily lives and work, but have also become essential tools for enterprises. More and more enterprises have shifted their focus to how to prevent outer forces from invading and stealing from networks. However, many enterprises have disregarded the significance of internal leaking, which also plays a vital role in information management. This research proposes an information security management approach that is based on context-aware role-based access control (RBAC) and communication monitoring technology, in order to achieve enterprise information security management. In this work, it is suggested that an enterprise may, first, use an organizational chart to list job roles and corresponding permissions. RBAC is a model that focuses on different work tasks and duties. Subsequently, the enterprise may define a security policy to enforce the context-aware RBAC model. Finally, the enterprise may use communication monitoring technology in order to implement information security management. The main contribution of this work is the potential it provides to both reduce information security incidents, such as internal information leakage, and allow for effective cost control of information systems.
Novel Method of Evaluating the Purity of Multiwall Carbon Nanotubes Using Raman Spectroscopy
Authors: Choi Young Chul , Min Kyoung-In , Jeong Mun Seok
Published: November 2013

We propose the quantitative method of evaluating the purity of multiwall carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) using Raman spectroscopy. High purity MWCNTs were prepared by chemical vapor deposition (CVD) to be used as a reference material with 100% purity. Since the intensity and wavenumber of D′′‐band located at around 1500 cm−1 were found to be independent of the excitation wavelength of a laser, the purity of MWCNTs was measured by comparing the intensity ratio of D′′‐band to G‐band (/IG) of the sample with that of a reference material. The established method was verified by testing the mixture of amorphous carbon particles and reference MWCNTs.
Cure Kinetics of Epoxy Nanocomposites Affected by MWCNTs Functionalization: A Review
Authors: Saeb Mohammad Reza , Bakhshandeh Ehsan , Khonakdar Hossein Ali , Mäder Edith , Scheffler Christina , Heinrich Gert
Published: November 2013

The current paper provides an overview to emphasize the role of functionalization of multiwalled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) in manipulating cure kinetics of epoxy nanocomposites, which itself determines ultimate properties of the resulting compound. In this regard, the most commonly used functionalization schemes, that is, carboxylation and amidation, are thoroughly surveyed to highlight the role of functionalized nanotubes in controlling the rate of autocatalytic and vitrification kinetics. The current literature elucidates that the mechanism of curing in epoxy/MWCNTs nanocomposites remains almost unaffected by the functionalization of carbon nanotubes. On the other hand, early stage facilitation of autocatalytic reactions in the presence of MWCNTs bearing amine groups has been addressed by several researchers. When carboxylated nanotubes were used to modify MWCNTs, the rate of such reactions diminished as a consequence of heterogeneous dispersion within the epoxy matrix. At later stages of curing, however, the prolonged vitrification was seen to be dominant. Thus, the type of functional groups covalently located on the surface of MWCNTs directly affects the degree of polymer‐nanotube interaction followed by enhancement of curing reaction. Our survey demonstrated that most widespread efforts ever made to represent multifarious surface‐treated MWCNTs have not been directed towards preparation of epoxy nanocomposites, but they could result in property synergism.
pH Responsive Self‐Assembly of Cucurbit[7]urils and Polystyrene‐Block‐Polyvinylpyridine Micelles for Hydrophobic Drug Delivery
Authors: Moosa Basem A. , Mashat Afnan , Li Wengang , Fhayli Karim , Khashab Niveen M.
Published: November 2013

Polystyrene‐block‐polyvinylpyridine (PS‐b‐P4VP) polypseudorotaxanes with cucurbit[7]urils (CB[7]) were prepared from water soluble PS‐b‐P4VPH+ polymer and CB[7] in aqueous solution at room temperature. At acidic and neutral pH, the pyridinium block of PS‐b‐P4VP is protonated (PS‐b‐P4VPH+) pushing CB[7] to preferably host the P4VP block. At basic pH (pH 8), P4VP is not charged and thus is not able to strongly complex CB[7]. This phenomenon was verified further by monitoring the release of pyrene, a hydrophobic cargo model, from a PS‐b‐P4VPH+/CB[7] micellar membrane. Release study of UV active pyrene from the membrane at different pH values revealed that the system is only operational under basic conditions and that the host‐guest interaction of CB[7] with P4VPH+ significantly slows down cargo release.
Mobile Visual Recognition on Smartphones
Authors: Gui Zhenwen , Wang Yongtian , Liu Yue , Chen Jing
Published: November 2013

This paper addresses the recognition of large-scale outdoor scenes on smartphones by fusing outputs of inertial sensors and computer vision techniques. The main contributions can be summarized as follows. Firstly, we propose an ORD (overlap region divide) method to plot image position area, which is fast enough to find the nearest visiting area and can also reduce the search range compared with the traditional approaches. Secondly, the vocabulary tree-based approach is improved by introducing GAGCC (gravity-aligned geometric consistency constraint). Our method involves no operation in the high-dimensional feature space and does not assume a global transform between a pair of images. Thus, it substantially reduces the computational complexity and memory usage, which makes the city scale image recognition feasible on the smartphone. Experiments on a collected database including 0.16 million images show that the proposed method demonstrates excellent recognition performance, while maintaining the average recognition time about 1 s.
Assessing Numerical Error in Structural Dynamics Using Energy Balance
Authors: Andujar Rabindranath , Roset Jaume , Kilar Vojko
Published: November 2013

This work applies the variational principles of Lagrange and Hamilton to the assessment of numerical methods of linear structural analysis. Different numerical methods are used to simulate the behaviour of three structural configurations and benchmarked in their computation of the Lagrangian action integral over time. According to the principle of energy conservation, the difference at each time step between the kinetic and the strain energies must equal the work done by the external forces. By computing this difference, the degree of accuracy of each combination of numerical methods can be assessed. Moreover, it is often difficult to perceive numerical instabilities due to the inherent complexities of the modelled structures. By means of the proposed procedure, these complexities can be globally controlled and visualized in a straightforward way. The paper presents the variational principles to be considered for the collection and computation of the energy-related parameters (kinetic, strain, dissipative, and external work). It then introduces a systematic framework within which the numerical methods can be compared in a qualitative as well as in a quantitative manner. Finally, a series of numerical experiments is conducted using three simple 2D models subjected to the effect of four different dynamic loadings.
Proteogenomic Analysis Reveals Unanticipated Adaptations of Colorectal Tumor Cells to Deficiencies in DNA Mismatch Repair
Authors: Halvey Patrick J. , Wang Xiaojing , Wang Jing , Bhat Ajaz A. , Dhawan Punita , Li Ming , Zhang Bing , Liebler Daniel C. , Slebos Robbert J.C.
Published: November 2013

A growing body of genomic data on human cancers poses the critical question of how genomic variations translate to cancer phenotypes. We used standardized shotgun proteomics and targeted protein quantitation platforms to analyze a panel of 10 colon cancer cell lines differing by mutations in DNA mismatch repair (MMR) genes. In addition, we performed transcriptome sequencing (RNA-seq) to enable detection of protein sequence variants from the proteomic data. Biologic replicate cultures yielded highly consistent proteomic inventories with a cumulative total of 6,513 protein groups with a protein false discovery rate of 3.17% across all cell lines. Networks of coexpressed proteins with differential expression based on MMR status revealed impact on protein folding, turnover and transport, on cellular metabolism and on DNA and RNA synthesis and repair. Analysis of variant amino acid sequences suggested higher stability of proteins affected by naturally occurring germline polymorphisms than of proteins affected by somatic protein sequence changes. The data provide evidence for multisystem adaptation to MMR deficiency with a stress response that targets misfolded proteins for degradation through the ubiquitin-dependent proteasome pathway. Enrichment analysis suggested epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition in RKO cells, as evidenced by increased mobility and invasion properties compared with SW480. The observed proteomic profiles demonstrate previously unknown consequences of altered DNA repair and provide an expanded basis for mechanistic interpretation of MMR phenotypes. Cancer Res; 74(1); 387–97. ©2013 AACR.
DNA Damage-Binding Complex Recruits HDAC1 to Repress Bcl-2 Transcription in Human Ovarian Cancer Cells
Authors: Zhao Ran , Han Chunhua , Eisenhauer Eric , Kroger John , Zhao Weiqiang , Yu Jianhua , Selvendiran Karuppaiyah , Liu Xingluo , Wani Altaf A. , Wang Qi-En
Published: November 2013

Elevated expression of the antiapoptotic factor Bcl-2 is believed to be one of the contributing factors to an increased relapse rate associated with multiple cisplatin-resistant cancers. DNA damage-binding protein complex subunit 2 (DDB2) has recently been revealed to play an important role in sensitizing human ovarian cancer cells to cisplatin-induced apoptosis through the downregulation of Bcl-2, but the underlying molecular mechanism remains poorly defined. Here, it is report that DDB2 functions as a transcriptional repressor for Bcl-2 in combination with DDB1. Quantitative ChIP and EMSA analysis revealed that DDB2 binds to a specific cis-acting element at the 5′-end of Bcl-2 P1 promoter. Overexpression of DDB2 resulted in marked losses of histone H3K9,14 acetylation along the Bcl-2 promoter and enhancer regions, concomitant with a local enrichment of HDAC1 to the Bcl-2 P1 core promoter in ovarian cancer cells. Coimmunoprecipitation and in vitro binding analyses identified a physical interaction between DDB1 and HDAC1, whereas downregulation of HDAC1 significantly enhanced Bcl-2 promoter activity. Finally, in comparison with wild-type DDB2, mutated DDB2, which is unable to repress Bcl-2 transcription, mediates a compromised apoptosis upon cisplatin treatment. Taken together, these data support a model wherein DDB1 and DDB2 cooperate to repress Bcl-2 transcription. DDB2 recognizes and binds to the Bcl-2 P1 promoter, and HDAC1 is recruited through the DDB1 subunit associated with DDB2 to deacetylate histone H3K9,14 across Bcl-2 regulatory regions, resulting in suppressed Bcl-2 transcription.

Implications: Increasing the expression of DDB complex may provide a molecular strategy for cancer therapy. Mol Cancer Res; 12(3); 370–80. ©2013 AACR.
Synergistic Role of Protein Phosphatase Inhibitor 1 and Sarco/Endoplasmic Reticulum Ca
2+
-ATPase in the Acquisition of the Contractile Phenotype of Arterial Smooth Muscle Cells
Authors: Lipskaia Larissa , Bobe Regis , Chen Jiqiu , Turnbull Irene C. , Lopez Jose J. , Merlet Elise , Jeong Dongtaq , Karakikes Ioannis , Ross Alexandra S. , Liang Lifan , Mougenot Nathalie , Atassi Fabrice , Lompré Anne-Marie , Tarzami Sima T. , Kovacic Jason C. , Kranias Evangelia , Hajjar Roger J. , Hadri Lahouaria
Published: November 2013

Background—

Phenotypic modulation or switching of vascular smooth muscle cells from a contractile/quiescent to a proliferative/synthetic phenotype plays a key role in vascular proliferative disorders such as atherosclerosis and restenosis. Although several calcium handling proteins that control differentiation of smooth muscle cells have been identified, the role of protein phosphatase inhibitor 1 (I-1) in the acquisition or maintenance of the contractile phenotype modulation remains unknown.

Methods and Results—

In human coronary arteries, I-1 and sarco/endoplasmic reticulum Ca
2+
-ATPase expression is specific to contractile vascular smooth muscle cells. In synthetic cultured human coronary artery smooth muscle cells, protein phosphatase inhibitor 1 (I-1 target) is highly expressed, leading to a decrease in phospholamban phosphorylation, sarco/endoplasmic reticulum Ca
2+
-ATPase, and cAMP-responsive element binding activity. I-1 knockout mice lack phospholamban phosphorylation and exhibit vascular smooth muscle cell arrest in the synthetic state with excessive neointimal proliferation after carotid injury, as well as significant modifications of contractile properties and relaxant response to acetylcholine of femoral artery in vivo. Constitutively active I-1 gene transfer decreased neointimal formation in an angioplasty rat model by preventing vascular smooth muscle cell contractile to synthetic phenotype change.

Conclusions—

I-1 and sarco/endoplasmic reticulum Ca
2+
-ATPase synergistically induce the vascular smooth muscle cell contractile phenotype. Gene transfer of constitutively active I-1 is a promising therapeutic strategy for preventing vascular proliferative disorders.
‘Struck (with Blood)’. The Meaning and Etymology of παλάσσω and Its Middle Perfect πεπάλακτο
Authors: van Beek Lucien
Published: November 2013

Abstract

Among Homer’s bloody descriptions of battle scenes, we find the thrice-repeated phrase ἐγκέφαλος δὲ / ἔνδον ἅπας πεπάλακτο (Il. 11.97 f., 12.185 f., 20.399 f.). The middle pluperfect of παλάσσω is interpreted by commentators and dictionaries either as ‘the brain was spattered (against the inside of the helmet)’, or as ‘the brain was sprinkled (with blood)’. Both interpretations of πεπάλακτο yield syntactic and/or semantic problems. In this paper, I discuss these problems and, after reconsidering the attestations of παλάσσω during the history of Greek, propose a new solution. It is argued that παλάσσω does not primarily mean ‘sprinkle, bespatter’, but (i) ‘strike’, out of which (ii) ‘soil, defile’ developed. In the problematic Homeric phrase, I suggest to translate πεπάλακτο with ‘was struck’. Moreover, I propose an etymology for παλάσσω, deriving the middle perfect πεπάλακτο (which I consider to be the oldest formation) from the same root as πλήσσω ‘strike’, viz., PIE *pleh2g-. This etymology is corroborated by the comparison between ἐµπαλάσσοµαι and ἐνιπλήσσω, both ‘be stuck (in)’.
Cassius Dio on Julia Domna: A Study of the Political and Ethical Functions of Biographical Representation in Dio’s Roman History
Authors: Mallan C.T.
Published: November 2013

Abstract

Of the individuals who appear in the closing books of Cassius Dio’sRoman History, there is perhaps none more beguiling than Julia Domna. Dio’s account of the life of Domna is the fullest surviving from antiquity. Yet, Dio’s portrayal of Domna is not a miscellany of facts about the empress, and thus should not be treated as such. Rather, it is a contrived literary portrayal that fulfilled important moralizing functions within the Severan narrative of theRoman History. This article provides an analysis of Dio’s portrayal of Domna. It suggests that Dio shaped his portrayal of Domna to serve two purposes within the text: firstly, to act as a foil to his portrayals of C. Fulvius Plautianus and Caracalla; and, secondly, to explore through the figure of Domna political and ethical themes relevant to Dio’s appraisal of the Severan period.
Four new species of genus Parallaxis McAtee (Hemiptera: Cicadellidae: Typhlocybinae: Dikraneurini) from Argentina, with a key to known species
Authors: CATALANO MARÍA INÉS , PARADELL SUSANA L. , DIETRICH CHRISTOPHER H.
Published: November 2013

Four new species of Parallaxis McAtee are described from Argentina, P. jujuiensis sp. n., P. misionensis sp. n., P. tucumanensis sp. n. and P. virlai sp. n. Detailed morphological descriptions and illustrations of the new species and a key to males of known species are provided.
Consequences of Family Member Incarceration
Authors: Lee Hedwig , Porter Lauren C. , Comfort Megan
Published: November 2013

Political participation and citizens’ perceptions of the legitimacy and fairness of government are central components of democracy. In this article, we examine one possible threat to these markers of a just political system: family member incarceration. We offer a unique glimpse into the broader social consequences of punishment that are brought on by a partner’s or parent’s incarceration. We argue that the criminal justice system serves as an important institution for political socialization for the families of those imprisoned, affecting their attitudes and orientations toward the government and their will and capacity to become involved in political life. We draw from ethnographic data collected by one of the authors, quantitative data from the National Longitudinal Study of Adolescent Health, and interviews with recently released male prisoners and their female partners. Our findings suggest that experiences of a family member’s incarceration complicate perceptions of government legitimacy and fairness and serve as a barrier to civic participation.
Coping with bullying: What answers does children’s literature provide?
Authors: Flanagan Kelly S. , Hoek Kristin K. Vanden , Shelton Andrew , Kelly Sarah L. , Morrison Chelsey M. , Young Amy M.
Published: November 2013

Bibliotherapy is a therapeutic tool for helping children deal with stressful events. Bullying and peer victimization is commonly experienced by children and has been associated with psychosocial maladjustment. However, research suggests that particular coping strategies may be more or less effective. As stories are one avenue through which children learn about and explore possible coping strategies, this study examined 73 storybooks aimed at children ages 4–11 for bullying type (verbal, physical, and relational), settings in which the bullying occurred and coping strategies used by fictional victims. Assessed coping strategies included nine categories and 26 specific strategies. Results indicated that the most commonly used coping strategy categories included both adaptive ( prosocial response, advice seeking, distancing) and maladaptive ( revenge-seeking) categories. The most frequently promoted coping strategies were bystander-intervention (16%), befriend-the-bully (15%), trick-the-bully (11%), scare-the bully-(10%), and verbal-confrontation (10%). Differences in the strategies presented across reading level of the books were also found. Results are discussed in light of current research on coping and bullying, and implications for clinicians and school staff conducting bibliotherapy to address bullying.
BMP‐2 Expression Correlates with Local Failure in Head and Neck Squamous Cell Carcinoma
Authors: Sand Jordan P. , Kokorina Natalia A. , Zakharkin Stanislav O. , Lewis James S. , Nussenbaum Brian
Published: November 2013

Objective

Preclinical data show that exogenous administration of recombinant human bone morphogenetic protein‐2 (rhBMP‐2) to human oral carcinoma cell lines increases pathogenicity using a nude mouse model. The objectives of this study are to (1) describe the characteristics of baseline protein expression of BMP‐2 in head and neck squamous cell carcinomas (HNSCC) and (2) determine if BMP‐2 expression level correlates with worse oncologic outcomes.

Study Design

Retrospective analysis of previously harvested patient samples.

Setting

Academic medical center.

Subjects

In total, 149 patients with oral cavity, oropharynx, larynx, and hypopharynx HNSCC treated between January 1, 1997, and December 31, 2004.

Methods

A tissue microarray of HNSCC was assembled and immunohistochemistry for BMP‐2 performed. Staining was quantified using a standardized scoring system. Specimens were dichotomized into high or low expression level. Statistical analyses using log‐rank, Wilcoxon, and Fisher exact test were performed for associations between BMP‐2 protein level and clinicopathologic features and patient survival.

Results

BMP‐2 expression at any level was noted in 146 of 149 (98%) of samples. Tumors with high BMP‐2 expression had higher rates of local failure compared with low‐expressing tumors (17.3% vs 6.3%; P =. 04). There was no significant association for BMP‐2 expression level with tumor location, T stage, N stage, overall survival, regional failure, or distant failure.

Conclusion

Head and neck squamous cell carcinomas with high baseline BMP‐2 protein level are associated with higher rates of local recurrence. These data have important implications for using rhBMP‐2 in tissue engineering reconstructive approaches in the setting of cancer‐related defects.
The Key Contradiction in Capitalist System
Authors: Jossa Bruno
Published: November 2013

Which is the fundamental contradiction of capitalism: the capital-labor polarity or the contrast between socialized production and private appropriation? Those looking on the capital-labor polarity as the main contradiction will argue that socialism arises when the passage from a system controlled by capital owners to a system of worker-run firms sparks off the reversal of the usual capital-labor relation. Conversely, those who think that the key contradiction of capitalism is the contrast between socialized production and private appropriation will contend that the social order to rise from the ashes of capitalism is a centrally planned system. This paper reports arguments in support of the former option.
Segment optimization of a rotating multilayer sandwich beam
Authors: Gupta Sayantan Datta , Rajamohan Vasudevan
Published: November 2013

This study presents the optimal distribution of cuts or segments in both the constrained and constraining layers of a rotating sandwich beam. The governing equations of motion of a rotating constrained multilayer sandwich beam is developed in the finite element form. The validity of the proposed finite element formulation is demonstrated by comparing the results with those obtained from the available literature and Ritz formulation. The significance of the number and location of the segmentation(s) on the modal damping factor is investigated by using the strain energy approach and the finite element method. An optimization problem is formulated by combining finite element analysis with genetic algorithm-based optimization technique to identify the optimal locations for the segments to achieve maximum modal damping corresponding to the first five modes of flexural vibration, individually and simultaneously. The simulations suggest that the modal damping factors are strongly influenced by the location and the number of cuts on a rotating multilayer sandwich beam.
Flexural behavior of stiffened syntactic foam core sandwich composites
Authors: Kumar SJ Amith , Ahmed K Sabeel
Published: November 2013

Sandwich composite with phenolic syntactic foam as a core and glass polymeric laminates as face skins are widely used in ship hull structures because of its high specific properties and buoyant nature. In the present work, syntactic foam is prepared by uniform mixing of cenosphere and phenolic resin in equal proportions. The effect of stiffening the syntactic foam core by resin-impregnated paper honeycomb structure on flexural behavior of sandwich composites is experimentally investigated under flatwise and edgewise loading configuration. Microscopic features of fractured coupons are also investigated to predict the failure mode. The results reveal that use of resin-impregnated paper honeycomb structure in syntactic foam to form the core leads to considerable improvement in the flexural properties of sandwich composites in both flatwise and edgewise loading configurations. The span of sandwich composite has significant role in altering the magnitudes of core shear strength, skin bending strength and mode of failure. Coupons under edgewise configuration failed in progressive failure mode; however, in flatwise configuration coupons failed in sudden brittle mode.
Self respect—A “Rawlsian Primary Good” unprotected by the European Convention on Human Rights and its lack of a coherent approach to stigmatization?
Authors: Quinn Paul , De Hert Paul
Published: November 2013

This article is primarily concerned with stigmatization resulting from public information campaigns such as public health information campaigns. Stigmatization as a concept has received much attention from social scientists but conversely little from the legal world, including the European Court of Human Rights. Stigmatization can be distinguished from other similar concepts, e.g. discrimination, stereotyping and marginalization, by its ability to induce a sense of “self-loathing.” The court’s limited discourse thus far raises questions as to whether it recognizes stigmatization as being capable of engaging human rights principles where no other engaging factors are present. Even if the court is willing to find engagement in such cases, it is likely that in most instances the court would find any incidental stigmatization justified given the potential benefits available. The lack of judicial engagement with such cases thus far may reflect the possibility that stigmatization occurring through expressive acts of public officials is located within a “nexus of non-justiciability” whereby the European Convention on Human Rights is generally not applicable.
Reliability of a New Clinical Instrument for Measuring Internal and External Glenohumeral Rotation
Authors: Lindenfeld Thomas N. , Fleckenstein Cassie M. , Levy Martin S. , Grood Edward S. , Frush Todd J. , Parameswaran A. Dushi
Published: November 2013

Background:

The shoulder plays a critical role in many overhead athletic activities. Several studies have shown alterations in shoulder range of motion (ROM) in the dominant shoulder of overhead athletes and correlation with significantly increased risk of injury to the shoulder and elbow. The purpose of this study was to measure isolated glenohumeral joint internal/external rotation (IR/ER) to determine inter- and intraobserver reliability of a new clinical device.

Hypothesis:

(1) Inter- and intraobserver reliability would exceed 90% for measures of glenohumeral joint IR, ER, and total arc of motion; (2) the dominant arm would exhibit significantly increased ER, significantly decreased IR, and no difference in total arc of motion compared with the nondominant shoulder; and (3) a significant difference exists in total arc between male and female patients.

Study Design:

Case series.

Level of Evidence:

Level 4.

Methods:

Thirty-seven subjects (mean age, 23 years; range, 13-54 years) were tested by 2 orthopaedic surgeons. A single test consisted of 1 arc of motion from neutral to external rotation to internal rotation and back to neutral within preset torque limits. Each examiner performed 3 tests on the dominant and nondominant shoulders. Each examiner completed 2 installations.

Results:

Testing reliability demonstrated that neither trial, installation, nor observer were significant sources of variation. The maximum standard deviation was 1.3° for total arc of motion and less than 2° for most other measurements. Dominant arm ER was significantly greater than nondominant arm ER ( P = 0.02), and dominant arm IR was significantly less than nondominant arm IR ( P = 0.00). Mean total rotation was 162°, with no significant differences in total rotation between dominant and nondominant arms ( P = 0.34). Mean total arc of motion was 45° greater in female subjects. Differences in total arc of motion between male and female subjects was statistically significant ( P < 0.00).

Conclusion:

This simple, clinical device allows for both inter- and intraobserver reliability measurements of glenohumeral internal and external rotation.
Bertrand-Edgeworth Competition in an Almost Symmetric Oligopoly
Authors: De Francesco Massimo A. , Salvadori Neri
Published: November 2013

We analyze a Bertrand-Edgeworth game in a homogeneous product industry, under efficient rationing and constant (and identical across firms) marginal cost until full capacity utilization. We solve for the unique equilibrium in a subset of the no pure strategy equilibrium region of the capacity space in which differences in individual capacities are sufficiently small.
Epigallocatechin-3-gallate-mediated cardioprotection by Akt/GSK-3β/caveolin signalling in H9c2 rat cardiomyoblasts
Authors: Hsieh Shih-Ron , Hsu Chen-Sen , Lu Chen-Hua , Chen Wei-Cheng , Chiu Chun-Hwei , Liou Ying-Ming
Published: November 2013

Background

Epigallocatechin-3-gallate (EGCg) with its potent anti-oxidative capabilities is known for its beneficial effects ameliorating oxidative injury to cardiac cells. Although studies have provided convincing evidence to support the cardioprotective effects of EGCg, it remains unclear whether EGCg affect trans-membrane signalling in cardiac cells. Here, we have demonstrated the potential mechanism for cardioprotection of EGCg against H2O2-induced oxidative stress in H9c2 cardiomyoblasts.

Results

Exposing H9c2 cells to H2O2suppressed cell viability and altered the expression of adherens and gap junction proteins with increased levels of intracellular reactive oxygen species and cytosolic Ca2+. These detrimental effects were attenuated by pre-treating cells with EGCg for 30 min. EGCg also attenuated H2O2-mediated cell cycle arrest at the G1-S phase through the glycogen synthase kinase-3β (GSK-3β)/β-catenin/cyclin D1 signalling pathway. To determine how EGCg targets H9c2 cells, enhanced green fluorescence protein (EGFP) was ectopically expressed in these cells. EGFP-emission fluorescence spectroscopy revealed that EGCg induced dose-dependent fluorescence changes in EGFP expressing cells, suggesting that EGCg signalling events might trigger proximity changes of EGFP expressed in these cells.

Proteomics studies showed that EGFP formed complexes with the 67 kD laminin receptor, caveolin-1 and -3, β-actin, myosin 9, vimentin in EGFP expressing cells. Using in vitro oxidative stress and in vivo myocardial ischemia models, we also demonstrated the involvement of caveolin in EGCg-mediated cardioprotection. In addition, EGCg-mediated caveolin-1 activation was found to be modulated by Akt/GSK-3β signalling in H2O2-induced H9c2 cell injury.

Conclusions

Our data suggest that caveolin serves as a membrane raft that may help mediate cardioprotective EGCg transmembrane signalling.
Computer quantification of airway collapse on forced expiration to predict the presence of emphysema
Authors: Topalovic Marko , Exadaktylos Vasileios , Peeters Anneleen , Coolen Johan , Dewever Walter , Hemeryck Martijn , Slagmolen Pieter , Janssens Karl , Berckmans Daniel , Decramer Marc , Janssens Wim
Published: November 2013

Background

Spirometric parameters are the mainstay for diagnosis of COPD, but cannot distinguish airway obstruction from emphysema. We aimed to develop a computer model that quantifies airway collapse on forced expiratory flow–volume loops. We then explored and validated the relationship of airway collapse with computed tomography (CT) diagnosed emphysema in two large independent cohorts.

Methods

A computer model was developed in 513 Caucasian individuals with ≥15 pack-years who performed spirometry, diffusion capacity and CT scans to quantify emphysema presence. The model computed the two best fitting regression lines on the expiratory phase of the flow-volume loop and calculated the angle between them. The collapse was expressed as an Angle of collapse (AC) which was then correlated with the presence of emphysema. Findings were validated in an independent group of 340 individuals.

Results

AC in emphysema subjects (N = 251) was significantly lower (131° ± 14°) compared to AC in subjects without emphysema (N = 223), (152° ± 10°) (p < 0.0001). Multivariate regression analysis revealed AC as best indicator of visually scored emphysema (R2 = 0.505, p < 0.0001) with little significant contribution of KCO, %predicted and FEV1, %predicted to the total model (total R2 = 0.626, p < 0.0001). Similar associations were obtained when using CT-automated density scores for emphysema assessment. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves pointed to 131° as the best cut-off for emphysema (95.5% positive predictive value, 97% specificity and 51% sensitivity). Validation in a second group confirmed the significant difference in mean AC between emphysema and non-emphysema subjects. When applying the 131° cut-off, a positive predictive value of 95.6%, a specificity of 96% and a sensitivity of 59% were demonstrated.

Conclusions

Airway collapse on forced expiration quantified by a computer model correlates with emphysema. An AC below 131° can be considered as a specific cut-off for predicting the presence of emphysema in heavy smokers.
The ambulatory arterial stiffness index and target-organ damage in Chinese patients with chronic kidney disease
Authors: Wang Cheng , Zhang Jun , Li Cui-Cui , Gong Wen-Yu , Liu Xun , Ye Zeng-Chun , Peng Hui , Lou Tan-Qi
Published: November 2013

Background

The ambulatory arterial stiffness index (AASI) can be used to predict cardiovascular morbidity and mortality in hypertensive patients. However, data on AASI in Chinese patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD) is not available.

Methods

This cross-sectional study enrolled 583 CKD patients. Univariate and multivariate analyses were used to evaluate the relationship between AASI and renal function and parameters of cardiovascular injury.

Results

Patients with a higher AASI had a higher systolic blood pressure, a lower estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR), a higher serum cystatin C, a higher left ventricular mass index (LVMI) and carotid intima-media thickness (cIMT). Univariate analyses showed that AASI was positively correlated with serum cystatin C (r=0.296, P < 0.001), serum creatinine (r=0.182, P < 0.001), and LVMI (r = 0.205, P < 0.001) and negatively correlated with the eGFR (r = –0.200, P < 0.001). Multivariate analyses revealed that serum cystatin C, eGFR, serum creatinine and LVMI were independently correlated with AASI.

Conclusions

These data suggest that AASI was closely correlated with renal function and parameters of cardiovascular injury in Chinese CKD patients. Good quality, long-term, large longitudinal trials to validate the role of AASI in clinical practice for Chinese CKD patients.
Crystal structure of the γ-hydroxymuconic semialdehyde dehydrogenase from Pseudomonas sp. strainWBC-3, a key enzyme involved in para-Nitrophenol degradation
Authors: Su Jing , Zhang Cong , Zhang Jun-Jie , Wei Tiandi , Zhu Deyu , Zhou Ning-Yi , Gu Li chuan
Published: November 2013

Background

para-Nitrophenol (PNP) is a highly toxic compound with threats to mammalian health. The pnpE-encoded γ-hydroxymuconic semialdehyde dehydrogenase catalyzes the reduction of γ-hydroxymuconic semialdehyde to maleylacetate in Pseudomonas sp. strain WBC-3, playing a key role in the catabolism of PNP to Krebs cycle intermediates. However, the catalyzing mechanism by PnpE has not been well understood.

Results

Here we report the crystal structures of the apo and NAD bound PnpE. In the PnpE-NAD complex structure, NAD is situated in a cleft of PnpE. The cofactor binding site is composed of two pockets. The adenosine and the first ribose group of NAD bind in one pocket and the nicotinamide ring in the other.

Conclusions

Six amino acids have interactions with the cofactor. They are C281, E247, Q210, W148, I146 and K172. Highly conserved residues C281 and E247 were identified to be critical for its catalytic activity. In addition, flexible docking studies of the enzyme-substrate system were performed to predict the interactions between PnpE and its substrate γ-hydroxymuconic semialdehyde. Amino acids that interact extensively with the substrate and stabilize the substrate in an orientation suitable for enzyme catalysis were identified. The importance of these residues for catalytic activity was confirmed by the relevant site-directed mutagenesis and their biochemical characterization.
Chemokine receptor CX3CR1 contributes to macrophage survival in tumor metastasis
Authors: Zheng Jiao , Yang Min , Shao Jianghua , Miao Yanju , Han Jiahuai , Du Jie
Published: November 2013

Background

Macrophages, the key component of the tumor microenvironment, are differentiated mononuclear phagocyte lineage cells that are characterized by specific phenotypic characteristics that have been implicated in tumor growth, angiogenesis, and invasion. CX3CR1, the chemoattractant cytokine CX3CL1 receptor, plays an important role in modulating inflammatory responses, including monocyte homeostasis and macrophage phenotype and function. However, the role of CX3CR1 in the regulation of the tumor inflammatory microenvironment is not fully understood.

Methods

Using in vivo hepatic metastasis model, human colon carcinoma specimens, immunohistochemical staining, TUNEL staining, flow cytometry analysis, Western blotting assay and co-culture in three-dimensional peptide gel, we determined the effects of CX3CR1 on angiogenic macrophage survival and tumor metastasis.

Results

In this study, we found that CX3CR1 was expressed in human colon carcinomas in a histologic grade- and stage-dependent manner, and CX3CR1 upregulation in TAMs was correlated with poor prognosis. Furthermore, we showed that in a microenvironment lacking CX3CR1, the liver metastasis of colon cancer cells was significantly inhibited. The underlying mechanism is associated with decrease accumulation of angiogenic macrophages that can be partly attributed to increased apoptosis in the tumor microenvironment, thus leading to impaired tumor angiogenesis in the liver and suppressed tumor metastasis.

Conclusions

Our results suggest a role of CX3CR1 in angiogenic macrophage survival in the tumor microenvironment contributing to tumor metastasis.
Analysis of pectin mutants and natural accessions of Arabidopsis highlights the impact of de-methyl-esterified homogalacturonan on tissue saccharification
Authors: Francocci Fedra , Bastianelli Elisa , Lionetti Vincenzo , Ferrari Simone , De Lorenzo Giulia , Bellincampi Daniela , Cervone Felice
Published: November 2013

Background

Plant biomass is a potentially important renewable source of energy and industrial products. The natural recalcitrance of the cell walls to enzymatic degradation (saccharification), which plants have evolved to defend themselves from biotic stresses, represents a major bottleneck for the industrial bioconversion of lignocellulosic biomasses. The identification of factors that influence the cell wall recalcitrance to saccharification may help to overcome the existing limitations that hamper the utilization of biomass.

Results

Here we have investigated in Arabidopsis thaliana the impact of homogalacturonan (HG) content and structure on tissue saccharification. We characterized mutants affected in genes encoding proteins involved in HG biosynthesis (quasimodo2-1; qua2-1) and methylesterification (pectin methylesterase 3; pme3). We also analyzed the natural variation of Arabidopsis through the characterization of a nested core collection of 24 accessions generated to maximize genetic variability. We found a negative correlation between the level of de-methyl-esterified HG (HGA) and cellulose degradability.

Conclusions

We propose to use the level of HGA domains as a biochemical marker of the cell wall recalcitrance to saccharification. This may be utilized for selecting, on a large scale, natural variants or mutants with improved bioconversion features.
Metastatic involvement of the spleen by endometrial adenocarcioma; a rare asylum for a common malignancy: a case report
Authors: Arif Adnan , Abideen Zain Ul , Zia Naeem , Khan Muhammad Atif , Nawaz Tariq , Malik Asif Zafar
Published: November 2013

Background

Metastatic involvement of the spleen by solid tumors is a rare clinical entity; those coming from endometrial adenocarcinomas are exceptionally rare. Spleen is an uncommon site for metastatic deposits due to its specific anatomy and microenvironment. Typically, splenic metastasis from endometrial carcinomas present months to years after curative surgery, chemotherapy or radiotherapy. The most common complaint in symptomatic patients is abdominal pain localized to the left hypochondrium. Most however, are asymptomatic only to be picked up on vigilant routine ultrasonography or computerized tomography during follow up. We report the case of a 54-year-old woman who presented to us after 50 months of total abdominal hysterectomy and bilateral salpingo-oophorectomy for an endometrial adenocarcinoma. She had severe abdominal pain localized to the left hypochondrium as the presenting complaint. To the best of our knowledge, this is the 1st case to be reported from Pakistan with 14 cases reported prior to our report. All past cases report the endometroid variant of endometrial adenocarcinoma as the primary tumor and our patient was a victim to the same variant.

Case presentation

A 54-year-old, nulliparous widowed woman presented with severe abdominal pain in the left hypochondrium for the last 4 months. The pain radiated to the left shoulder and was exacerbated with deep breathing. She had a history of total abdominal hysterectomy with bilateral salpingo-oophorectomy done 50 months back for stage 1a endometroid endometrial adenocarcinoma. Clinical examination revealed tenderness in the left hypochondrium but no visceromeglay was appreciable. Ultrasonography and computerized tomography revealed a space-occupying lesion within the spleen with associated splenomegaly. Computed tomography further suggested a large splenic abscess however the patient did not have fever, vomiting or leukocytosis which are the hallmarks of a splenic abscess. A splenectomy was performed for her complaints. On histopathology a metastatic adenocarcinoma was identified consistent with the primary tumor. The tumor was CK7, CA-125 and epithelial membrane antigen positive (EMA). The patient was then referred for further chemotherapy.

Conclusion

From this case we conclude, that although very rare, the spleen is a potential site for metastasis in endometroid endometrial adenocarcinoma. Since most patients are asymptomatic, routine examinations and imaging can identify its presence and avoid complications. If the practice is employed with vigilance, we may expect the clinical event to be diagnosed more frequently. The standard treatment is a classic splenectomy followed by chemotherapy.
Patient eligibility criteria for a surgical treatment that enhances tissue sealing by use of a medicated sponge: observational study ELITE
Authors: Raiffort Cyril , Benabdallah Farid , Paillasseur Jean-Louis , Gangner Yves , Leutenegger Eric , Sockeel Philippe
Published: November 2013

Rationale

The application of a haemostatic agent in general surgery, in addition to its effect on bleeding, also provides tissue sealing and adhesion. A sponge drug is used with some actions of resection and wide dissection, without knowledge of the eligibility of patients. In this study, we sought to identify clusters of patients for which the medicated sponge enhances tissue sealing.

Methods

Observational study (ELITE), from a panel of selected surgeons from hospitals in France in several surgical areas: abdominal, gynaecology, urology and thoracic. The survey identified the criteria for using the sponge TachoSil® in their surgical practices involving n = 683 patients. A multiple correspondence analysis (MCA) followed by an ascending hierarchical classification (AHC) was used in order to identify the eligibility criteria for the application of the sponge for tissue sealing in addition to hemostasis.

Results

The most relevant classification was based on 9 groups of patients for which the sponge was used. 6 of them are mainly linked with the kind of lesion, 2 with the site of application and the latest one with the type of operation.

Conclusions

The ELITE study revealed that the TachoSil® sponge was used mainly during surgery, requiring a reinforcement of the resection tissue sealing. The expected objective was successfully reached in 97% of the cases.
Clinicopathologic Characteristics of Malignant Mesotheliomas Arising in Patients With a History of Radiation for Hodgkin and Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma
Authors: Chirieac Lucian R. , Barletta Justine A. , Yeap Beow Y. , Richards William G. , Tilleman Tamara , Bueno Raphael , Baldini Elizabeth H. , Godleski John , Sugarbaker David J.
Published: November 2013

Purpose

Studies have reported an association between pleural diffuse malignant mesothelioma (PDMM) and chest radiation for lymphoma. The clinicopathologic characteristics of malignant mesotheliomas arising in these patients have not been established.

Patients and Methods

We studied 1,618 consecutive patients diagnosed with pleural PDMM from July 1993 to February 2008 and identified patients with a history of radiation for Hodgkin and non-Hodgkin lymphoma. We evaluated the histology in the surgical resection specimens and compared clinicopathologic features with overall survival.

Results

We identified 22 patients who developed PDMM after chest radiation as part of their treatment for lymphoma (mean latency time, 21.4 years; 95% CI, 17.0 to 25.8 years). Asbestos bodies in lymphoma-associated PDMM were lower than in asbestos-associated PDMM (median count, 15 v 325 bodies, respectively; P < .001) and similar to an unexposed control group (median count, 15 v 10 bodies, respectively; P = .6). Seventeen lymphoma-associated PDMMs (77%) were epithelioid and five (23%) were biphasic. Seven PDMMs (32%) had unusual histologies (pleomorphic, myxoid, clear cell, and signet ring cell). Patients with lymphoma-associated PDMM were younger than patients with asbestos-associated PDMM (median age, 45 v 64 years, respectively; P < .001) and had a significantly longer overall survival time (median, 32.5 v 12.7 months, respectively; P = .018). In multivariate analysis, independent favorable predictors for overall survival were history of prior radiation (P = .022), female sex (P < .001), age ≤ 65 years (P = .005), cytoreductive surgery (P < .001), and epithelioid histology (P < .001).

Conclusion

Patients with lymphoma-associated PDMM are likely to have unusual histologic features, are significantly younger, and seem to have a longer overall survival compared with patients with asbestos-associated PDMM.