bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Production, characterization and properties of chloridized mesoporous activated carbon from waste tyres
Authors: Jianzhong Zhu  , Buchang Shi  , Jianguo Zhu  , Liang Chen  , Jianzhong Zhu  , Deqi Liu  , Hao Liang
Published: May 2009

In this study, chloridized mesoporous activated carbons (ClMAC) were prepared from used tyres. Their pore structure, surface chemistry and adsorptive capacities of toluene were investigated with nitrogen gas adsorption, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR) and bench adsorptive experiments. A series of activated carbons were produced by pyrolysis, activation and chlorination under different temperatures. The activated carbons derived from scrap tyres had highly mesoporous volumes and surface areas, for example, the ClMAC prepared under 300 °C was 0.81 cm3 g—1, and 1078.2 m2 g —1, respectively. (Commercial activated carbon—F-400 was 0.16 cm3 g—1, and 1021.1 m 2 g—1). The adsorptive capacities of toluene in the activated carbon-derived waste tyres were compared with the F-400 and the experimental results showed chlorinated activated carbons had exceptional characteristics for toluene adsorption in an aqueous solution; especially, the ClMAC produced in 300 °C had a 471.8 mg g—1 maximum capacity; however, F-400 had a 255.4 mg g— 1 minimum capacity. In short, by using chloridized mesoporous activated carbons the authors significantly improved the toluene removal capacity in aqueous solution.
Production of fired construction brick from high sulfate-containing fly ash with boric acid addition
Authors: Başpınar M. Serhat , Kahraman Erhan , Görhan Gökhan , Demir İsmail
Published: May 2009

The increase of power plant capacity has led to the production of an increasing amount of fly ash that causes high environmental impact in Turkey. Some of the fly ash is utilized within the fired brick industry but high sulfate-containing fly ash creates severe problems during sintering of the fired brick. This study attempted to investigate the potential for converting high sulfate-containing fly ash into useful material for the construction industry by the addition of boric acid. The chemical and mineralogical composition of fly ash and clay were investigated. Boric acid (H3BO3) was added to fly ash—clay mixtures with up to 5 wt.%. Six different series of test samples were produced by uniaxial pressing. The samples were fired at the industrial clay-brick firing temperatures of 800, 900 and 1000 °C. The microstructures of the fired samples were investigated by scanning electron microscopy and some physical and mechanical properties were measured. It was concluded that the firing at conventional brick firing temperature of high sulfate fly ash without any addition of boric acid resulted in very weak strength bricks. The addition of boric acid and clay simultaneously to the high sulfate- containing fly ash brick dramatically increased the compressive strength of the samples at a firing temperature of 1000 °C by modifying the sintering behaviour of high sulfate fly ash.
Effect of oxidized leachate on degradation of lignin by sulfate-reducing bacteria
Authors: Kim Jong-Ho , Kim Moonil , Bae Wooken
Published: May 2009

Municipal solid waste materials (MSWs) in landfills need a long period of stabilization because lignin compounds in MSWs and leachate are not readily biodegraded, but inhibit methanogenic metabolism. Recirculation of leachate into the landfill offers the potential advantage of increasing the rate of decomposition of organic matter. However, the degradation of lignin by leachate recirculation alone is quite difficult. Several recent studies have demonstrated that sulfate-reducing bacteria (SRB) were able to degrade lignin compounds. In this study, batch tests were conducted to investigate the impacts of SRB enrichment on lignin decomposition rates as well as the decomposition of other biodegradable organics. Further, the effects of nitrite and nitrate on lignin degradation rates were also studied. A 16S rRNA assay showed that the SRB used herein, which were obtained by enriching solid waste collected from a closed MSW landfill, were Thaurea sp. and Desulfovibrio sp. Lignin was found to be biodegraded by the SRB and the rate of lignin removal per unit of waste volatile suspended solid was 2.9 mg lignin g—1 VSS day— 1. It was found that the initial degradation rate increased under higher initial lignin concentrations. However, the degradation rate during days 6—19 became slower than that during the initial 9 days because lignin consisted of complexly bonded aromatic compounds that were not readily biodegradable. Adding other organics such as lactate seemed to improve the rate and amount of lignin degradation, probably due to the increase in SRB associated with consumption of the additional organics. The lignin removal percentage decreased with increases in oxidized nitrogen (nitrite or nitrate) concentrations, indicating that oxidized nitrogen could inhibit SRB activity. Conclusively, the study verified the existence of SRB in the landfill and showed that the SRB could be activated for the degradation of lignin by the recirculation of the leachate, which is consistent with other studies showing that leachate recirculation could shorten the stabilization period of the landfill.
Report: Risk factors associated with treatment of mixed municipal solid waste in the Indian context
Authors: Nema Asit
Published: May 2009

Across India, all small and large urban local bodies (ULB) alike are grappling with the problem of municipal solid waste (MSW), which has reached critical dimensions because of, among others, rapidly increasing quantities and complex characteristics, inadequate regulation, lack of awareness, concern and cooperation on the part of the urban residents, limited resources for collection, transport and safe disposal, and limited expertise on the part of the ULBs. A number of ULBs have attempted to address the two-fold constraint of resources and land by setting up treatment plants under the premise of generating revenue and reducing liability of safe disposal. Over the last three decades, under the paradigms of converting ‘waste to energy’ and ‘waste to wealth’ various technologies have been tried out, however time and again it is seen that irrespective of the technology, MSW treatment plants run in to difficulties and/or close down. The issues do not pertain just to technology but are systemic and encompass project development, feedstock delivery system including quality and quantity, climate, high life-cycle costs, low value realization on outputs and adverse environmental and social impacts. With such a wide range of risk factors, experience has shown that the probability of manifestation of any one of them or a combination thereof at one or the other stages of the project is quite high. Investment in a mixed MSW treatment plant therefore can not deliver positive financial returns, rather it can become a non-performing asset without even guaranteeing the desired environmental and public health benefits. This paper therefore argues for the adoption of a robust, elastic and most forgiving option of sanitary landfill as a dependable and safe disposal system for MSW.
Clinical and Neurophysiologic Spectrum Associated with Atypical Absence Seizures in Children with Intractable Epilepsy
Authors: Nolan Melinda , Bergazar Mohamed , Chu Bill , Cortez Miguel A. , Carter Snead O.
Published: May 2009

The aim of this study was to describe the clinical and neurophysiologic correlates of atypical absence seizures in children with intractable epilepsy. In a retrospective review, 19 children with videoelectroencephalographic monitoring (female n = 14; male n = 5) fulfilled the electroclinical criteria for this seizure type. Atypical absence seizures occurred in a spectrum of clinical conditions associated with educational disability and intractable seizures. In comparison with children with only atypical absence seizures, children with atypical absence in association with multiple seizure types were more likely to have severe educational disability ( n = 11 of 13; P = .01), a slower ictal frequency ( n = 10 of 13; P = .01), and slow background rhythms for age ( n = 13 of 13; P = .03). This study illustrates the broad clinical spectrum in which atypical absence seizures are encountered. Differentiation between children with only atypical absence seizures and children with multiple seizure types can be useful with respect to potential academic ability. ( J Child Neurol 2005;20:404—410).
Epilepsy in Chromosomal Abnormalities: An Italian Sample
Authors: Parmeggiani Antonia , Posar Annio , Giovannini Simona , Giovanardi-Rossi Paola
Published: May 2009

Epilepsy is common in chromosomal abnormalities, but systematic studies are scanty. We describe an Italian sample of patients with chromosomopathies to establish epilepsy occurrence and clinical electroencephalographic (EEG) features. Forty-five patients with different types of chromosomal abnormalities were analyzed to examine different variables in patients with epilepsy (group 1) and without (group 2) and to compare the types of epilepsy in our cases with respect to a nonselected sample of Italian people with epilepsy. Epilepsy occurred in 51.1% (group 1) of cases and prevailed in autosomal abnormalities but without a statistical significance ( P > .05). There was a prevalence of EEG paroxysmal abnormalities in group 1 ( P < .0001); continuous spike-waves during sleep were observed in three cases. Profound mental retardation prevailed in group 1 ( P < .001) and mild mental retardation in group 2 ( P < .05). Generalized epilepsies prevailed significantly ( P < .00001). A high-resolution karyotype should be undertaken in all patients with epilepsy presenting with mental retardation when an obvious etiology is not available. ( J Child Neurol 2005;20:419—423).
Interviewing Family Caregivers: Implications of the Caregiving Context for the Research Interview
Authors: Funk Laura M. , Stajduhar Kelli I.
Published: May 2009

Family caregiving tends to involve strong and often competing emotional experiences. Most of our knowledge of caregiving stems from interview research, much of it cross-sectional in nature. In this article we explore the implications of interviews as a research method for understanding caregiving. Specifically, we address difficulties in interpreting participants' talk about caregiving when this talk is simultaneously an articulation of experience and an attempt to cope with that experience. Either uncritically accepting accounts as reflective of experience, without considering the role of coping, or making assumptions about the success of caregiver coping in this context, might be erroneous. Our own experiences of interviewing family caregivers in different research projects will be drawn upon as examples. We conclude by questioning the ability to draw conclusions about caregiving and/or caregiver coping based solely on interview research, and call for greater integration of observational and longitudinal methods in family caregiving research.
Analysis of Accident and Emergency Doctors' Responses to Treating People Who Self-Harm
Authors: Hadfield Jo , Brown Dora , Pembroke Louise , Hayward Mark
Published: May 2009

Self-harm is a prevalent phenomenon regularly faced by doctors and nurses working in accident and emergency (A&E) departments. We argue that the treatment decisions A&E doctors make are fundamental to decreasing the high risk of suicide among this group. In this article we present a qualitative study exploring how doctors working in A&E respond to treating people who self-harm. In total, five A&E doctors were interviewed and the data were analyzed using interpretative phenomenological analysis. Three main themes were extracted: treating the body, silencing the self, and mirroring cultural and societal responses to self-harm. Within these themes, we identified both facilitative and unhelpful aspects of the relationships between people who self-harm and A&E doctors. We consider the clinical implications of these findings within the context of A&E doctors having limited opportunities to address the relational nature of the care they offer to this group.
Methods and Strategies Utilized in Published Qualitative Research
Authors: Kyung Rim Shin  , Mi Young Kim  , Seung Eun Chung
Published: May 2009

Here we examine articles that were published between 1999 and 2007 in Qualitative Health Research ( QHR), and between 2000 and 2006 in Qualitative Research ( QR), and sort them according to (a) the number of qualitative research publications by year, (b) data analysis by methodology, (c) data analysis by author, (d) the use of computer programs for data analysis, and (e) analysis process and procedure. To promote a further understanding of the procedures used in qualitative research, we then discuss similarities and differences between the categories. We suggest that a certain detachment from the “rules” will help qualitative researchers maintain reflective insight into data so they can successfully conceptualize the work involved.
Development of Adaptive Seat Mounts for Helicopter Aircrew Body Vibration Reduction
Authors: Chen Yong , Wickramasinghe Viresh , Zimcik David
Published: May 2009

Helicopter aircrew are exposed to high levels of vibration and noise during flight. This paper presents the investigation of adaptive seat mount approaches to reducing vibration on the helicopter seat. A flight test on a helicopter with typical pilot configurations showed that the vibration spectra on the pilot’s helmet not only included the dominant N/rev harmonic peaks of the rotor speed, but also consisted of a low-frequency resonant peak in the frequency range of human abdominal and spine resonant frequencies. Long-term exposure to this vibration may lead to occupational health issues such as damage to the pilot’s spine and neck. In order to address this issue, a novel adaptive seat mount concept was developed to mitigate the vibration levels transmitted to the aircrew. As a proof-of-concept demonstration, a miniature modal shaker was installed between the cabin floor and the seat bottom as an adaptive mount that provided the actuation authority. The objective was to reduce the vertical vibration transmitted to the aircrew helmet in order to decrease aircrew neck and spine injuries that are caused by the transmitted vibration. Extensive closed-loop control tests have been conducted on a full-scale helicopter seat and a mannequin with varying physical properties. A 10,000 lb(f) mechanical shaker was used to provide representative helicopter vibration profiles to the seat. Significant vibration reductions on the N/rev vibration peaks were achieved1 the low-frequency resonant peak was also suppressed simultaneously.
How Do SLPs Improve Outcomes in Adults in Home Care?
Authors: Brown Janet
Published: May 2009

Home care agencies that have not employed speech—language pathologists (SLPs) may not be aware of their potential to advance other rehab and nursing goals for patients with communication, swallowing, and cognitive impairments. This article provides an overview of the professional requirements and scope of speech—language pathology practice. Quality reporting in health care and various organizations engaged in performance measurement are described. The American Speech-Language-Hearing Association’s National Outcomes Measurement System has developed specific outcomes measures to track SLP intervention. Case studies illustrate how speech—language pathology services can enhance the effectiveness of other rehabilitation services and have an impact on hospital readmission, a primary quality measure in home care.
Effectiveness of Lifestyle Physical Activity Interventions to Reduce Cardiovascular Disease
Authors: Dunn Andrea L.
Published: May 2009

Lifestyle interventions have evolved from proof-of-concept pilot studies to efficacy and effectiveness studies and have now moved toward translation and dissemination studies because of their demonstrated ability to improve cardiovascular disease (CVD) outcomes. When combined with diet, they also have demonstrated the ability to normalize blood glucose levels and help to regulate weight. This review highlights the converging lines of evidence that led to lifestyle physical activity interventions, beginning with early epidemiology studies, and provides evidence for the efficacy and effectiveness of lifestyle interventions. However, if lifestyle interventions are to play a role in preventing CVD and improving CVD outcomes, their use must be more widespread. This will require translational and dissemination research to understand how to move into real-world settings. Successful examples of translational studies will be highlighted, and issues related to theoretical and practical issues as well as capacity building will be discussed. Building bridges between research and practice must be done if lifestyle interventions are to deliver on their public health promise.
Recurrent mutations of the STAT6 DNA binding domain in primary mediastinal B-cell lymphoma
Authors: Ritz Olga , Guiter Chrystelle , Castellano Flavia , Dorsch Karola , Melzner Julia , Jais Jean-Philippe , Dubois Gwendoline , Gaulard Philippe , Möller Peter , Leroy Karen
Published: May 2009

Primary mediastinal B-cell lymphoma (PMBL) is a separate entity of aggressive B-cell lymphoma, characterized by a constitutive activation of janus kinase-signal transducer and activator of transcription (JAK-STAT) signaling pathway, also observed in Hodgkin lymphoma. Although many cancers exhibit constitutive JAK-STAT pathway activation, mutations of STAT genes have not been reported in neoplasms. Here, we show that MedB-1 PMBL-derived and L1236 Hodgkin-derived cell lines and 20 of 55 (36%) PMBL cases harbor heterozygous missense mutations in STAT6 DNA binding domain, whereas no mutation was found in 25 diffuse large B-cell lymphoma samples. In 3 cases, somatic origin was indicated by the absence of the mutations in the nontumoral tissue. The pattern of STAT6 mutations was different from the classical features of somatic hypermutations. The mutant STAT6 proteins showed a decreased DNA binding ability in transfected HEK cells, but no decrease in expression of STAT6 canonical target genes was observed in PMBL cases with a mutated STAT6 gene. Although the oncogenic properties of STAT6 mutant proteins remain to be determined, their recurrent selection in PMBL strongly argues for their involvement in the pathogenesis of this aggressive B-cell lymphoma.
TLI and ATG conditioning with low risk of graft-versus-host disease retains antitumor reactions after allogeneic hematopoietic cell transplantation from related and unrelated donors
Authors: Kohrt Holbrook E. , Turnbull Brit B. , Heydari Kartoosh , Shizuru Judith A. , Laport Ginna G. , Miklos David B. , Johnston Laura J. , Arai Sally , Weng Wen-Kai , Hoppe Richard T. , Lavori Philip W. , Blume Karl G. , Negrin Robert S. , Strober Samuel , Lowsky Robert
Published: May 2009

A hematopoietic cell transplantation regimen was adapted from a preclinical model that used reduced-intensity conditioning (RIC) and protected against graft-versus-host disease (GVHD) by skewing residual host T-cell subsets to favor regulatory natural killer T cells. One hundred eleven patients with lymphoid (64) and myeloid (47) malignancies received RIC using total lymphoid irradiation (TLI) and antithymocyte globulin (ATG) followed by the infusion of granulocyte colony-stimulating factor-mobilized grafts. Included were 34 patients at least 60 years of age, 32 patients at high risk of lymphoma relapse after disease recurrence following prior autologous transplantation, and 51 patients at high risk of developing GVHD due to lack of a fully human leukocyte antigen (HLA)–matched related donor. Durable chimerism was achieved in 97% of patients. Cumulative probabilities of acute GVHD (grades II-IV) were 2 and 10% of patients receiving related and unrelated donor grafts. Nonrelapse mortality (NRM) at 1 year was less than 4%. Cumulative incidence of chronic GVHD was 27%. The 36-month probability of overall and event-free survival was 60% and 40%, respectively. Disease status at start of conditioning and the level of chimerism achieved after transplantation significantly impacted clinical outcome. The high incidence of sustained remission among patients with active disease at time of transplantation suggests retained graft-versus-tumor reactions. Active trial registration currently at clinicaltrials.gov under IDs of NCT00185640 and NCT00186615.
Validating subcellular localization prediction tools with mycobacterial proteins
Authors: Restrepo-Montoya Daniel , Vizcaíno Carolina , Niño Luis F , Ocampo Marisol , Patarroyo Manuel E , Patarroyo Manuel A
Published: May 2009

Background

The computational prediction of mycobacterial proteins' subcellular localization is of key importance for proteome annotation and for the identification of new drug targets and vaccine candidates. Several subcellular localization classifiers have been developed over the past few years, which have comprised both general localization and feature-based classifiers. Here, we have validated the ability of different bioinformatics approaches, through the use of SignalP 2.0, TatP 1.0, LipoP 1.0, Phobius, PA-SUB 2.5, PSORTb v.2.0.4 and Gpos-PLoc, to predict secreted bacterial proteins. These computational tools were compared in terms of sensitivity, specificity and Matthew's correlation coefficient (MCC) using a set of mycobacterial proteins having less than 40% identity, none of which are included in the training data sets of the validated tools and whose subcellular localization have been experimentally confirmed. These proteins belong to the TBpred training data set, a computational tool specifically designed to predict mycobacterial proteins.

Results

A final validation set of 272 mycobacterial proteins was obtained from the initial set of 852 mycobacterial proteins. According to the results of the validation metrics, all tools presented specificity above 0.90, while dispersion sensitivity and MCC values were above 0.22. PA-SUB 2.5 presented the highest values; however, these results might be biased due to the methodology used by this tool. PSORTb v.2.0.4 left 56 proteins out of the classification, while Gpos-PLoc left just one protein out.

Conclusion

Both subcellular localization approaches had high predictive specificity and high recognition of true negatives for the tested data set. Among those tools whose predictions are not based on homology searches against SWISS-PROT, Gpos-PLoc was the general localization tool with the best predictive performance, while SignalP 2.0 was the best tool among the ones using a feature-based approach. Even though PA-SUB 2.5 presented the highest metrics, it should be taken into account that this tool was trained using all proteins reported in SWISS-PROT, which includes the protein set tested in this study, either as a BLAST search or as a training model.
An integrated RH map of porcine chromosome 10
Authors: Ma Jian-Gang , Yasue Hiroshi , Eyer Katie E , Hiraiwa Hideki , Shimogiri Takeshi , Meyers Stacey N , Beever Jonathan E , Schook Lawrence B , Beattie Craig W , Liu Wan-Sheng
Published: May 2009

Background

Whole genome radiation hybrid (WG-RH) maps serve as "scaffolds" to significantly improve the orientation of small bacterial artificial chromosome (BAC) contigs, order genes within the contigs and assist assembly of a sequence-ready map for virtually any species. Here, we report the construction of a porcine: human comparative map for pig (Sus scrofa) chromosome 10 (SSC10) using the IMNpRH212,000-radporcine WG-RH panel, integrated with the IMpRH7000-radWG-RH, genetic and BAC fingerprinted contig (FPC) maps.

Results

Map vectors from the IMNpRH212,000-radand IMpRH7,000-radpanels were merged to construct parallel framework (FW) maps, within which FW markers common to both panels have an identical order. This strategy reduced map discrepancies between the two panels and significantly improved map accuracy. A total of 216 markers, including 50 microsatellites (MSs), 97 genes and ESTs, and 69 BAC end sequences (BESs), were ordered within two linkage groups at two point (2 pt) LOD score of 8. One linkage group covers SSC10p with accumulated map distances of 738.2 cR7,000and 1814.5 cR12,000, respectively. The second group covers SSC10q at map distances of 1336.9 cR7,000and 3353.6 cR12,000, yielding an overall average map resolution of 16.4 kb/cR12,000or 393.5 kb per marker on SSC10. This represents a ~2.5-fold increase in map resolution over the IMpRH7,000-radpanel. Based on 127 porcine markers that have homologous sequences in the human genome, a detailed comparative map between SSC10 and human (Homo sapiens) chromosome (HSA) 1, 9 and 10 was built.

Conclusion

This initial comparative RH map of SSC10 refines the syntenic regions between SSC10 and HSA1, 9 and 10. It integrates the IMNpRH212,000-radand IMpRH7,000-rad, genetic and BAC FPC maps and provides a scaffold to close potential gaps between contigs prior to genome sequencing and assembly. This map is also useful in fine mapping of QTLs on SSC10.
Antibody-mediated immunity to the obligate intracellular bacterial pathogen Coxiella burnetii is Fc receptor- and complement-independent
Authors: Shannon Jeffrey G , Cockrell Diane C , Takahashi Kazue , Stahl Gregory L , Heinzen Robert A
Published: May 2009

Background

The obligate intracellular bacterial pathogenCoxiella burnetiicauses the zoonosis Q fever. The intracellular niche ofC. burnetiihas led to the assumption that cell-mediated immunity is the most important immune component for protection against this pathogen. However, passive immunization with immune serum can protect naïve animals from challenge with virulentC. burnetii, indicating a role for antibody (Ab) in protection. The mechanism of this Ab-mediated protection is unknown. Therefore, we conducted a study to determine whether Fc receptors (FcR) or complement contribute to Ab-mediated immunity (AMI) toC. burnetii.

Results

VirulentC. burnetiiinfects and replicates within human dendritic cells (DC) without inducing their maturation or activation. We investigated the effects of Ab opsonizedC. burnetiion human monocyte-derived and murine bone marrow-derived DC. Infection of DC with Ab-opsonizedC. burnetiiresulted in increased expression of maturation markers and inflammatory cytokine production. Bacteria that had been incubated with naïve serum had minimal effect on DC, similar to virulentC. burnetiialone. The effect of Ab opsonizedC. burnetiion DC was FcR dependent as evidenced by a reduced response of DC from FcR knockout (FcR k/o) compared to C57Bl/6 (B6) mice. To address the potential role of FcR in Ab-mediated protection in vivo, we compared the response of passively immunized FcR k/o mice to the B6 controls. Interestingly, we found that FcR are not essential for AMI toC. burnetiiin vivo. We subsequently examined the role of complement in AMI by passively immunizing and challenging several different strains of complement-deficient mice and found that AMI toC. burnetiiis also complement-independent.

Conclusion

Despite our data showing FcR-dependent stimulation of DC in vitro, Ab-mediated immunity toC. burnetiiin vivo is FcR-independent. We also found that passive immunity to this pathogen is independent of complement.
Interplay between the heterotrimeric G-protein subunits Gαq and Gαi2 sets the threshold for chemotaxis and TCR activation
Authors: Ngai Jacob , Inngjerdingen Marit , Berge Torunn , Taskén Kjetil
Published: May 2009

Background

TCR and CXCR4-mediated signaling appears to be reciprocally regulated pathways. TCR activation dampens the chemotactic response towards the CXCR4 ligand CXCL12, while T cells exposed to CXCL12 are less prone to subsequent TCR-activation. The heterotrimeric G proteins Gαqand Gαi2have been implicated in CXCR4-signaling and we have recently also reported the possible involvement of Gαqin TCR-dependent activation of Lck (Ngai et al., Eur. J. Immunol., 2008, 38: 32083218). Here we examined the role of Gαqin migration and TCR activation.

Results

Pre-treatment of T cells with CXCL12 led to significantly reduced Lck Y394 phosphorylation upon TCR triggering indicating heterologous desensitization. We show that knockdown of Gαqsignificantly enhanced basal migration in T cells and reduced CXCL12-induced SHP-1 phosphorylation whereas Gαi2knockdown inhibited CXCL12-induced migration.

Conclusion

Our data suggest that Gαi2confers migration signals in the presence of CXCL12 whereas Gαqexerts a tonic inhibition on both basal and stimulated migrational responses. This is compatible with the notion that the level of Gαqactivation contributes to determining the commitment of the T cell either to migration or activation through the TCR.
Genetic diversity and population structure of Plasmodium falciparum in the Philippines
Authors: Iwagami Moritoshi , Rivera Pilarita T , Villacorte Elena A , Escueta Aleyla D , Hatabu Toshimitsu , Kawazu Shin-ichiro , Hayakawa Toshiyuki , Tanabe Kazuyuki , Kano Shigeyuki
Published: May 2009

Background

In the Philippines, malaria morbidity and mortality have decreased since the 1990s by effective malaria control. Several epidemiological surveys have been performed in the country, but the characteristics of thePlasmodium falciparumpopulations are not yet fully understood. In this study, the genetic structure ofP. falciparumpopulations in the Philippines was examined.

Methods

Population genetic analyses based on polymorphisms of 10 microsatellite loci of the parasite were conducted on 92 isolates from three provinces (Kalinga, Palawan, and Davao del Norte) with different malaria endemicity.

Results

The levels of genetic diversity and the effective population sizes ofP. falciparumin the Philippines were similar to those reported in the mainland of Southeast Asia or South America. In the low malaria transmission area (Kalinga), there was a low level of genetic diversity and a strong linkage disequilibrium (LD) when the single-clone haplotype (SCH) was used in the multilocus LD analysis, while in the high malaria transmission areas (Palawan and Davao del Norte), there was a high level of genetic diversity and a weak LD when SCH was used in the multilocus LD analysis. On the other hand, when the unique haplotypes were used in the multilocus LD analysis, no significant LD was observed in the Kalinga and the Palawan populations. The Kalinga and the Palawan populations were, therefore, estimated to have an epidemic population structure. The three populations were moderately differentiated from each other.

Conclusion

In each area, the level of genetic diversity correlates with the local malaria endemicity. These findings confirm that population genetic analyses using microsatellite loci are a useful tool for evaluating malaria endemicity.
Identification of microbial DNA in human cancer
Authors: Duncan Christopher G , Leary Rebecca J , Lin Jimmy Cheng-Ho , Cummins Jordan , Di Chunhui , Schaefer Carl F , Wang Tian-Li , Riggins Gregory J , Edwards Jennifer , Bigner Darell , Kopelovich Levy , Vogelstein Bert , Kinzler Kenneth W , Velculescu Victor E , Yan Hai
Published: May 2009

Background

Microorganisms have been associated with many types of human diseases; however, a significant number of clinically important microbial pathogens remain to be discovered.

Methods

We have developed a genome-wide approach, called Digital Karyotyping Microbe Identification (DK-MICROBE), to identify genomic DNA of bacteria and viruses in human disease tissues. This method involves the generation of an experimental DNA tag library through Digital Karyotyping (DK) followed by analysis of the tag sequences for the presence of microbial DNA content using a compiled microbial DNA virtual tag library.

Results

To validate this technology and to identify pathogens that may be associated with human cancer pathogenesis, we used DK-MICROBE to determine the presence of microbial DNA in 58 human tumor samples, including brain, ovarian, and colorectal cancers. We detected DNA from Human herpesvirus 6 (HHV-6) in a DK library of a colorectal cancer liver metastasis and in normal tissue from the same patient.

Conclusion

DK-MICROBE can identify previously unknown infectious agents in human tumors, and is now available for further applications for the identification of pathogen DNA in human cancer and other diseases.
The function of non-coding RNAs in genomic imprinting
Authors: Koerner Martha V. , Pauler Florian M. , Huang Ru , Barlow Denise P.
Published: May 2009

Non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs) that regulate gene expression in cis or in trans are a shared feature of prokaryotic and eukaryotic genomes. In mammals,cis-acting functions are associated with macro ncRNAs, which can be several hundred thousand nucleotides long. Imprinted ncRNAs are well-studied macro ncRNAs that have cis-regulatory effects on multiple flanking genes. Recent advances indicate that they employ different downstream mechanisms to regulate gene expression in embryonic and placental tissues. A better understanding of these downstream mechanisms will help to improve our general understanding of the function of ncRNAs throughout the genome.
Apc inhibition of Wnt signaling regulates supernumerary tooth formation during embryogenesis and throughout adulthood
Authors: Wang Xiu-Ping , O'Connell Daniel J. , Lund Jennifer J. , Saadi Irfan , Kuraguchi Mari , Turbe-Doan Annick , Cavallesco Resy , Kim Hyunsoo , Park Peter J. , Harada Hidemitsu , Kucherlapati Raju , Maas Richard L.
Published: May 2009

The ablation of Apc function or the constitutive activation ofβ-catenin in embryonic mouse oral epithelium results in supernumerary tooth formation, but the underlying mechanisms and whether adult tissues retain this potential are unknown. Here we show that supernumerary teeth can form from multiple regions of the jaw and that they are properly mineralized,vascularized, innervated and can start to form roots. Even adult dental tissues can form new teeth in response to either epithelial Apcloss-of-function or β-catenin activation, and the effect of Apcdeficiency is mediated by β-catenin. The formation of supernumerary teeth via Apc loss-of-function is non-cell-autonomous. A small number of Apc-deficient cells is sufficient to induce surrounding wild-type epithelial and mesenchymal cells to participate in the formation of new teeth. Strikingly, Msx1, which is necessary for endogenous tooth development, is dispensable for supernumerary tooth formation. In addition, we identify Fgf8, a known tooth initiation marker, as a direct target of Wnt/β-catenin signaling. These studies identify key mechanistic features responsible for supernumerary tooth formation.
Defining Bad News: Changes in Return Distributions That Decrease Risky Asset Demand
Authors: Hollifield Burton , Kraus Alan
Published: May 2009

We provide a random variable characterization of the necessary and sufficient conditions for a shift of the distribution of rate of return on the risky asset in the two-asset portfolio problem to reduce demand for all strictly risk-averse expected-utility-maximizing investors. We also provide random variable characterizations of the shifts that reduce both demand and expected utility for all strictly risk-averse investors.
Denoising forced‐choice detection data
Authors: García‐Pérez Miguel A.
Published: May 2009

Observers in a two‐alternative forced‐choice (2AFC) detection task face the need to produce a response at random (a guess) on trials in which neither presentation appeared to display a stimulus. Observers could alternatively be instructed to use a ‘guess’ key on those trials, a key that would produce a random guess and would also record the resultant correct or wrong response as emanating from a computer‐generated guess. A simulation study shows that ‘denoising’ 2AFC data with information regarding which responses are a result of guesses yields estimates of detection threshold and spread of the psychometric function that are far more precise than those obtained in the absence of this information, and parallel the precision of estimates obtained with yes–no tasks running for the same number of trials. Simulations also show that partial compliance with the instructions to use the ‘guess’ key reduces the quality of the estimates, which nevertheless continue to be more precise than those obtained from conventional 2AFC data if the observers are still moderately compliant. An empirical study testing the validity of simulation results showed that denoised 2AFC estimates of spread were clearly superior to conventional 2AFC estimates and similar to yes–no estimates, but variations in threshold across observers and across sessions hid the benefits of denoising for threshold estimation. The empirical study also proved the feasibility of using a ‘guess’ key in addition to the conventional response keys defined in 2AFC tasks.
Wear and Friction Testing of Hard and Soft Lubricious Coatings in Dry Sliding for Use in Small Arms Action Components
Authors: Shaffer S. J.
Published: May 2009

Use of liquid lubricants in dry and dusty environments can lead to malfunction or jamming of small arms weapon actions. To eliminate the need for liquid lubricants, dry or “lubricious” coatings are desired for various key interfaces of such components. The tribological performance of a variety of coatings was assessed under unlubricated sliding conditions to simulate a pin-in-slot component geometry. Coating screening tests were run using a cylinder-on-flat geometry and self-mated coated couples. Tests were run in both reciprocating and unidirectional modes, with sliding velocities up to 3.6 m/s, at room temperature and 150°C. Progressive wear of the coating was monitored using a replicating technique and the measured width of the wear scar on the cylindrical pin, from which the wear coefficient was determined. Failure of the coating was determined not by visual wear-through of the coating, which can be misleading, but by an increase in the coefficient of friction (COF) and/or the occurrence of galling. In the high speed unidirectional tests, friction could be measured directly. However, in the reciprocating tests, test rig design limited the speed at which the COF could be determined. An improved rig design resulted from this work. The screening tests ranked the tribological performance of the coatings using the coefficient of friction, the wear coefficient, and number of cycles to coating failure. The coating types assessed covered a broad range of hardness, composition, and deposition methods. Coating types investigated included hard vapor-deposited TiCN coatings, relatively soft organic PTFE-filled resin-bonded coatings, modified anodized coatings (for aluminum), electroless nickel alloy coatings, PTFE-filled electroless nickel coatings, phosphate pre-treatment combined with dry-film burnished MoS2, and a ferritic nitro-carburizing treatment. Substrates included medium carbon steel, D2 tool steel, and 6061-T6 aluminum.
Varnish Formation in the Gas Turbine Oil Systems
Authors: Sasaki Akira , Uchiyama Shinji , Kawasaki Mariko
Published: May 2009

The authors have investigated hydraulic and lubricating oil filter elements used in gas turbine systems which had varnish problems. The hydraulic filter elements were completely plugged with varnish and other degradation products at the first layer of the elements but the lubricating oil filter elements were not plugged with such contamination. However, the proofs of spark discharges of static electricity were found on the lubricating oil filter elements. This paper discusses the details of the investigation of the filter elements and one of the root causes of varnish formation in gas turbine oil systems.
Generalized Equation for Cooling Time Evaluation and Its Verification by CFD Analysis
Authors: Krukovskyi P. , Kobasko N. , Yurchenko D.
Published: May 2009

In this paper, a generalized analytical equation for cooling time evaluation is analyzed and compared with existing exact solutions and verified by computation fluid dynamics (CFD) simulation. The process of quenching of semiaxles and cylindrical forgings in water flow is also considered. Two approaches are analyzed. The traditional approach focuses on quenching, which is based on Newton’s boundary condition between the solid surface and fluid. The second approach solves a conjugate heat transfer problem based on a full set of Navier–Stokes equations. CFD technology does not require knowledge of the heat transfer coefficients at the surface of steel parts. Both approaches and results of calculations were compared and the results showed that a generalized correlation can be used for cooling time calculation both for simple and complicated configurations. Calculation results coincide with each other, which indicates that the generalized equation is a suitable method for calculations and development of intensive quenching technologies. As an example, the processes for quenching semiaxle and cylindrical forgings are considered. CFD analysis successfully detected small stagnant zones at the surface of the steel. Such zones could be related to quench crack formation. These results can be used for designing and development of intensive quenching processes.
Evaluation and Expression of Uncertainty in the Determination of Alumina in Deodorants Using Complexometric Method
Authors: Kayal Nijhuma , Singh Nahar , Ojha V. N. , Gupta Prabhat K.
Published: May 2009

Recent studies reveal that aluminum has several adverse effects on human life and causes several diseases. There are various sources by which aluminum can enter into a human body: The deodorant is one of them. In this paper, the concentration of alumina (%Al2O3) has been assessed for three different deodorants (namely, A, B, and C) using an indirect complexometric method along with an uncertainty budget. The uncertainty in the measurement has been evaluated and expressed according to the requirements of the standard ISO/IEC 17025:2005. It has been identified that the uncertainty in the measurement arises mainly from repeatability, standardization of zinc acetate, and volume measurement, which have been evaluated and combined according to the EURACHEM guidelines. The concentrations of alumina were 0.81±0.01, 0.73±0.01, and 0.49±0.01 g per 100 mL, respectively, for A, B, and C deodorants. The uncertainty in the measurement varies from 1.2 % to 2 % for the three deodorants. The results show that a person using A and B brand deodorants receives, respectively, 65 % and 48 % higher exposure to aluminum on the skin than a person using the C brand.
The Effect of Curing Regime on Pervious Concrete Abrasion Resistance
Authors: Kevern J. T. , Schaefer V. R. , Wang K.
Published: May 2009

The current method of curing pervious concrete is to cover with plastic for 7 days, although no studies have been performed to determine if that is sufficient or even required. This paper presents results of combinations of four different pervious concrete mixtures cured using six common curing methods. The surface abrasion of the concrete was tested using a rotary cutter device according to ASTM C944. The results show that the concrete abrasion resistance was improved with a majority surface-applied curing compounds; however the surfaces covered with plastic sheets produced the lowest abrasion levels. A majority of the curing regimes also produced higher flexural strength than the control concrete. There was no significant difference observed in the strength between curing under plastic sheets for 7 or 28 days. Of the surface-applied curing compounds, the best abrasion resistance and highest strength concrete was that applied with soybean oil. The best abrasion resistance and highest strength overall was the mixture containing fly ash and cured under plastic for 28 days.
Eating for Unity: Vegetarianism in the Early Unity School of Christianity
Authors: rapport jeremy
Published: May 2009

This essay examines the role of vegetarianism during the formative period of the Unity School of Christianity (1895-1938). Unity, based in the Kansas City area, taught that vegetarianism was an integral component of regenerating the body. Scholars studying the New Thought movement have only recently begun to recognize the body's role in salvation in these religious movements. By examining the interaction between the practice of vegetarianism and Unity's belief that the body must be regenerated, I show both how vegetarianism was integral to defining and putting into practice Unity's religious beliefs and how it helped to develop religious identity by marking the behavioral boundaries of a Unity member.
Andy Warhol's Production Kitchen
Authors: athens elizabeth
Published: May 2009

Through an examination of Andy Warhol's use of food imagery, this article considers the artist's representational strategies during the 1960s. In particular, it discusses Warhol's Campbell's soup paintings of ca.1961 –– ′′62 and his 1968 television advertisement for the Schrafft's chain of diners as two points on a spectrum of representation, revealing his shifting approaches to the art object. By exploring the commercial interests that drove each project, the different media in which they were completed, and the artist's public statements about each work, this article traces Warhol's early indebtedness to the romanticized notion of the personally inflected artwork to his later promotion of an art of pure surface.
What We Ate Back Then
Authors: hillman jimmye
Published: May 2009

While I was growing up on a subsistence farm in Greene County, Mississippi, food was something we ate three times a day in order to survive and be healthy, and to provide energy for farm labor. Food was important to our family social life. Barbecues and watermelon cutting come to mind as ceremonies. With a mixture of tales, folklore and parable, the occasional delicacy captured our emotions. Father was chief provider, Mother was cook and dispenser, and we children had growing appetites.

I was perpetually worried as to how my poor father was going to secure our food. Mother baked fresh cornbread, and grits was always on the breakfast table, even on Sunday. I could read on Mother's face a persistent anxiety as she prepared and served what was available to her. The dishes were far from sensuous, but they were edible and nutritious.

Despite periodic hardships in the 1930s, the Hillman family never really went hungry. Gardens were the secret. That was long before the food processors and distributors had become so dominant in our lives, and before most cookbooks were written. We were hopeful there would always be something on the dining table, but there was uncertainty about what it would be. A local joke was: There's always collards, squirrel, catfish, or possum——and grits!!
Renoir's Onions
Authors: wissman fronia e.
Published: May 2009

Pierre-Auguste Renoir's painting Onions, at the Clark Art Institute in Williamstown, Massachusetts, was painted in Naples in 1881. Renoir went to Italy in part to see the art of the Renaissance, especially the frescoes of Raphael. Onions is his response to frescoes, but not Raphael's. Instead, he was energized by seeing frescoes from Pompeii and Herculaneum that he saw installed in the National Archaeological Museum in Naples. Renoir's painting also is testimony to his difficulty in finding suitable models from whom to paint. A comparison is made with John Singer Sargent's contemporaneous paintings of onion sellers.