bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Abiogenic Origin of Hydrocarbons: An Historical Overview
Authors: Glasby Geoffrey P.
Published: November 2008

Abstract. The two theories of abiogenic formation of hydrocarbons, the Russian‐Ukrainian theory of deep, abiotic petroleum origins and Thomas Gold's deep gas theory, have been considered in some detail. Whilst the Russian‐Ukrainian theory was portrayed as being scientifically rigorous in contrast to the biogenic theory which was thought to be littered with invalid assumptions, this applies only to the formation of the higher hydrocarbons from methane in the upper mantle. In most other aspects, in particular the influence of the oxidation state of the mantle on the abundance of methane, this rigour is lacking especially when judged against modern criteria as opposed to the level of understanding in the 1950s to 1980s when this theory was at its peak. Thomas Gold's theory involves degassing of methane from the mantle and the formation of higher hydrocarbons from methane in the upper layers of the Earth's crust. However, formation of higher hydrocarbons in the upper layers of the Earth's crust occurs only as a result of Fischer‐Tropsch‐type reactions in the presence of hydrogen gas but is otherwise not possible on thermodynamic grounds. This theory is therefore invalid. Both theories have been overtaken by the increasingly sophisticated understanding of the modes of formation of hydrocarbon deposits in nature.
Synthetic Fluid Inclusions in the Systems NaCl‐H2O and NaCl‐CO2‐H2O: Dissolution Temperatures of Halite
Authors: Nagaseki Hiroki , Hayashi Ken‐ichiro
Published: November 2008

Abstract. This study examined the effect of CO2 on NaCl solubility in hydrothermal fluid, with the synthetic fluid inclusion technique. Fluid inclusions of 30–40 wt% NaCl and 5 mol % CO2 were synthesized, and their halite dissolution temperatures, Tm(halite), were measured. The solubilities of NaCl in CO2‐bearing aqueous fluid were obtained at 160–320d̀C under vapor‐saturated pressures. The Tm(halite) value in aqueous fluid with 5 mol % CO2 obtained in this study agrees with that of Schmidt et al. (1995), showing that 5 mol % CO2 reduces the solubility of NaCl by about 1 wt%.

Calculation of magnetite solubility suggests that 5–10 mol % CO2 decreases magnetite solubility by 4.5–8.9 % relative to the magnetite solubility in CO2‐free solution. Therefore, an increase of CO2 content in ore‐forming solutions may cause deposition of iron minerals and produce ore deposits.
Polymetallic and Au‐Ag Mineralizations at the Mutnovskoe Deposit in South Kamchatka, Russia
Authors: Takahashi Ryohei , Matsueda Hiroharu , Okrugin Victor M. , Ono Shuji
Published: November 2008

Abstract. The Mutnovskoe deposit located in the Porozhisto‐Asachinskaya metallogenic province of South Kamchatka, Russia, is a polymetallic vein and Au‐Ag quartz vein associated type of hydrothermal deposit. The Mutnovskoe deposit is located inside a paleo‐caldera structure at the center of the Mutnovsko‐Asachinskaya geothermal field of Pliocene ‐ Quaternary age, where active gold deposition is identified in hot spring precipitate.

The Mutnovskoe deposit is subdivided into the north flank, the central flank and the south flank based on the vein distributions and mineral parageneses. The mineralized vein system is oriented N‐S hosted in diorite ‐ gabbroic diorite stock, volcanic rocks and sedimentary rocks of Miocene ‐ Pleistocene age. The mineralization stage I (polymetallic vein) mainly in the central and the south flanks is Zn‐Pb‐Cu‐Au‐Ag contained in sphalerite, galena and tetrahedrite‐tennantite group mineral. The stage II (Au‐Ag quartz vein) occurs in the north and the central flanks. The stage III (Mn‐sulfide and Mn‐Ca‐carbonate vein) occurs in the whole deposit area. Stage II is the typical Au‐Ag quartz‐adularia vein of low‐sulfidation type. Stage III is alabandite‐rhodochrosite‐quartz‐calcite vein. The K‐Ar ages are 1.3±0.1 Ma for stage I sericite in alteration zone, and 0.7±0.1 Ma for the stage II adularia in mineralized vein.

Based on the fluid inclusion study, range of ore forming temperature of the Mutnovskoe deposit is 200 to 260d̀C (av. 230d̀C). Salinities of fluid inclusions indicate 2.2 to 5.7 wt% NaCl in sphalerite and 0.8 to 3.3 wt% NaCl in quartz for the stage I.

Mineral paragenesis of the polymetallic vein (stage I) is characterized by a district zoning of tennantite and Cd‐rich sphalerite in the south flank and tetrahedrite and Mn‐rich sphalerite in the central flank, which is due to the fractional crystallizations of ore‐forming fluid. Depositional condition of the low sulfidation state is inferred for the Mutnovskoe deposit, where the polymetallic vein of the south flank is in relatively higher sulfidation state than the central flank.
Hydrogen, Oxygen and Sulfur Isotope Studies of Seafloor Hydrothermal System at the Desmos Caldera, Manus Back‐arc Basin, Papua New Guinea: An Analogue of Terrestrial Acid Hot Crater‐lake
Authors: Gena Kaul R. , Chiba Hitoshi , Mizuta Toshio , Matsubaya Osamu
Published: November 2008

Abstract. The Onsen site is an active submarine hydrothermal system hosted by the Desmos caldera in the Eastern Manus Basin, Papua New Guinea. The hydrothermal fluid is very acidic (pH=1.5) and abundant native sulfur is deposited around the vent. The δ34S values of native sulfur range from ‐6.5 to ‐9.3 %o. δ34S values of H2S and SO4 in the hydrothermal fluid are ‐4.3 to ‐9.9 %o and +18.6 to +20.0 %o, respectively. These δ34S values are significantly lower than those of the other hydrothermal systems so far reported. These low δ34S values and the acidic nature of the vent fluids suggest that volcanic SO2 gas plays an important role on the sulfur isotope systematic of the Onsen hydrothermal system. Relationship among the δ34S values of S‐bearing species can be successively explained by the model based on the disproportionation reaction starting from the volcanic SO2 gas. The predicted δ34S values of SO2 agree with the measured whole rock δ34S values. δD and δ18O values of clay minerals separated from the altered rock samples also suggest the contribution of the magmatic fluid to the hydrothermal system. Present stable isotopic study strongly suggests that the Onsen hydrothermal site in the Desmos caldera is a magmatic submarine hydrothermal system.
Impact of Changes in Redox Conditions on Leaching of Some Elements from MSW Fly Ash
Authors: Gupta Lallan Prasad , Kawahata Hodaka , Ltakeuchi Mio , Ohta Hidekazu , Ono Yoshiro
Published: November 2008

Abstract. Oxidation and reduction processes can influence extent of leaching of elements from solid waste. Three samples of municipal solid waste combustion fly ash were subjected to oxidizing and reducing conditions in order to evaluate leaching of elements in the Milli‐Q water and fly ash (liquid to solid ratio, 100) mixtures. Although the oxidizing and reducing conditions were applied for 6 hours only, elements like Cs, Li, Mg, Sb, Tl and V leached more under oxidizing condition than under reducing condition in the case of all three ash samples. Cadmium, Pb and Zn leached more from all samples under reducing condition than under oxidizing condition. Leaching of other elements like Al, Ba, Cr, Cu, Ni and Rb was inconsistent with oxidizing or reducing conditions and varied from sample to sample, suggesting that factors other than redox may be more important in controlling leaching of these elements. Strong acid neutralization capacity of the fly ash samples let the pH vary within a narrow range, and thus severely limited the extent of leaching during the course of the experiment. Lead and Zn were the most sensitive while K and Na were the least sensitive to changes in redox conditions.
Optimal Design Approach to GMM Estimation of Parameters Based on Empirical Transforms
Authors: Braun Maria P. , Meintanis Simos G. , Melas Viatcheslav B.
Published: November 2008

Parameter estimation based on the generalized method of moments (GMM) is proposed. The proposed method employs a distance between an empirical and the corresponding theoretical transform. Estimation by the empirical characteristic function (CF) is a typical example, but alternative empirical transforms are also employed, such as the empirical Laplace transform when dealing with non‐negative random variables. D‐optimal designs are discussed, whereby the arguments of the empirical transform are chosen by maximizing the determinant of the asymptotic Fisher information matrix for the resulting estimators. The methods are applied to some parametric models for which classical inference is complicated.
Civic Epistemologies: Constituting Knowledge and Order in Political Communities
Authors: Miller Clark A.
Published: November 2008

How do we know things? The question of epistemology – which drives both the sociology and philosophy of science – is also a crucial question for political sociology. Knowledge is essential to even the most basic and foundational of political processes and institutions. In 2000, for example, the transition of power in the US presidential election hung for 36 days on uncertainty over a seemingly simple question of fact: who won the most votes in Florida? A few years later, disputed factual claims about Iraq's possession of weapons of mass destruction unraveled, calling into question key justifications of the US decision to invade Iraq in 2003 and significantly weakening perceived US legitimacy. Yet, surprisingly, sociologists and political scientists know relatively little about how knowledge gets made in political communities, nor how the making of knowledge is tied to other key aspects of political life, such as identity, authority, legitimacy, and accountability.
Metastasis to the breast from medullary thyroid carcinoma
Authors: Kim Ji Hoon , Lee Sang‐Wha , Kim Wan Seop , Han Hye Seung , Lim So Dug , Hwang Tae Sook
Published: November 2008

Metastasis to the breast from medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC) is extremely rare and the associate cytological findings have not been reported in Korea until now. We report a case of metastatic MTC presented as palpable neck and breast nodules in a 39‐year‐old woman. Fine needle aspiration of breast nodules showed a cellular smear with relatively homogenous, poorly cohesive tumor cells in a relatively clean background. The tumor cells were round to oval, with hyperchromatic nuclei, abundant cytoplasm and plasmacytoid in appearance. A few amorphous materials, possibly amyloid, were also noted. The patient underwent radical thyroidectomy, cervical lymph node dissection and excision of breast nodules. The primary thyroid mass was typical of MTC but metastatic breast tumors showed more homogenous and smaller tumor cells. The cellular origin of the breast tumors was confirmed by their immunoreactivity for calcitonin, chromogranin, synaptophysin and TTF‐1. Distinguishing MTC from primary breast cancer via fine needle aspiration cytology of breast nodules is important in planning treatment. Detection of amyloid‐like materials and immunohistochemical staining for calcitonin or TTF‐1 is helpful in diagnosing metastatic MTC in breast nodules when clinically suspected.
Expression of heme oxygenase‐1 in oral lichen planus
Authors: Lee Jun , Lim Hyun‐Dae , Lee You‐Mee , Lee Wan , Kim Min‐Kwan , Lee Sun‐Kyung , Jeong Gil‐Saeng , Oh Hyo‐Won , Lee Suk‐Keun , Kim Eun‐Cheol
Published: November 2008

Background and aim: The inducible stress protein, heme oxygenase‐1 (HO‐1) is considered to be a mediator of cytoprotective processes that might be of particular significance during inflammatory events. Currently, there is nothing in the literature regarding HO‐1 expression and proliferation in oral lichen planus (OLP). We investigate whether HO‐1 and proliferation are more expressed in the tissues of OLP patients compared to normal tissues. Methods: Streptavidin‐based immunohistochemical staining was used to detect proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA) and HO‐1 in 36 cases of OLP. Results: In OLP, HO‐1 was found to be expressed in basal and parabasal dendritic cells and lymphocytes and was coincident with PCNA expression. PCNA and HO‐1 immunoreactivities were higher in OLP mucosa than in normal mucosa, and the differences were statistically significant. Conclusions: These results suggest an elevation of HO‐1 expression in OLP. HO‐1 may play an adaptive or cytoprotective role during the immunologic stress of OLP.
Immunomodulation and allogeneic blood transfusion
Authors: WAANDERS MARLOES , VAN DE WATERING LEO , BRAND ANNEKE
Published: November 2008

Allogeneic blood transfusions expose a patient to many soluble and cell‐bound antigens, expressed on viable and decaying cells. In particular, contaminant leukocytes are presumed to play an important role interacting with the recipient's immune system. This immune response to transfusions is influenced by the condition of the patient, and a patient in steady state will respond differently to a patient in hemorrhagic shock, under anesthesia or after surgical tissue injury. Blood transfusions affect both the innate immediate defense immune system and the adaptive immune response, the latter often resulting in antibodies and (less well characterized) cellular immunity. Removal of allogeneic leukocytes by filtration of red cells and platelet products significantly reduces febrile non‐hemolytic transfusion reactions and the formation of leukocyte antibodies, causing refractoriness to platelet transfusions. However, an effect of leukocyte‐containing transfusions on cellular immune functions relevant to transplant tolerance, cancer surveillance, viral replication or susceptibility to nosocomial infections is less obvious. Randomized studies showed a significant effect of removal of allogeneic leukocytes in blood transfused to cardiac surgery patients, reducing postoperative mortality. As for the other reported clinical effects of (passenger) leukocytes in blood transfusions, there is not yet sufficient evidence.
Modelling landfill leachate-induced clogging of field-scale test cells (mesocosms)
Authors: Cooke Andrew J. , Rowe R. Kerry
Published: November 2008

A two-dimensional fluid flow and reactive transport model, BioClog, created to predict clogging in landfill leachate collection systems is used to calculate the clogging of gravel and treatment of leachate as it flows through the gravel in two real-scale experimental cells, called mesocosms, which represent the portion of a landfill drainage layer adjacent to a landfill collection pipe. These tests were conducted using real-time flows of landfill leachate and were run for about 6 and 12 years. The model computes spatial and temporal changes in clog quantity and composition. An empirical relationship predicts changes in hydraulic conductivity, and a variable mesh technique allows the surface to be free and dependent on calculated hydraulic heads. Calculated porosity change, effluent chemical oxygen demand (COD), and calcium concentrations, along with porosity and clog film thickness at termination are compared with the observed values and found to be in reasonable agreement given the variability and uncertainties associated with these processes.
An integrated geotechnical–geophysical investigation of soft clay at a coastal site in the Mekong Delta for oil and gas infrastructure development
Authors: Giao Pham Huy , Dung N. T. , Long P. V.
Published: November 2008

An adequate site investigation of soft clays is important for construction of oil and gas facilities on coastal areas in the Mekong Delta. This paper presents an integrated geotechnical–geophysical study of the soft clay deposit at the Ca Mau site, located on the west coast of southern Vietnam. The geotechnical data were analyzed to provide a detailed characterization of the subsoil profile and soil parameters that can be used in the design works. It is also the first time the electric imaging procedure has been successfully applied in the Mekong Delta to assist the local geotechnical engineers in site investigation of a very soft clay deposit.
Effect of depositional method on the undrained response of silty sand
Authors: Wood Fletcher M. , Yamamuro Jerry A. , Lade Poul V.
Published: November 2008

The results from a laboratory experimental study on silty sand are presented. Undrained triaxial compression tests were performed on Nevada sand containing nonplastic silt. All specimens underwent monotonic loading after isotropic consolidation to 25 kPa. Various depositional techniques were used to create specimens to compare their stress–strain behavior within three separate density ranges and three different silt contents. As density increased, the effect of the depositional method on the undrained behavior decreased. The influence of the depositional method on specimen behavior also was found to increase with silt content, particularly at lower densities. These findings therefore are of special interest with regard to laboratory testing for the purpose of characterizing liquefaction potential, where loose, silty sands may be encountered. A description and analysis of five different depositional techniques is provided. These methods include: dry funnel deposition, water sedimentation, slurry deposition, mixed dry deposition, and air pluviation. The results of the undrained testing are analyzed using void ratio after consolidation and silt content as the bases of comparison.
A DISASSEMBLY CAPABILITY PLANNING MODEL FOR THE MAKE-TO-ORDER REMANUFACTURING SYSTEM
Authors: CAO HUAJUN , DU YANBIN , LIU FEI
Published: November 2008

A disassembly capability planning mathematical model is established to balance the order quantity and the disassembly capability in the make-to-order remanufacturing system. The model is formulated as a newsboy problem with the objective of pursuing maximum profit. Finally, a case in the machine tool remanufacturing system is studied to illustrate the model.
ATTRIBUTE-BASED DELEGATION IN PRIVILEGE MANAGEMENT OF PDM SYSTEM
Authors: YE CHUNXIAO , FU YUNQING
Published: November 2008

This paper proposes an Attribute-Based-Delegation-Model (ABDM) with an extended delegation constraint consists of both delegation attribute expression (DAE) and delegation prerequisite condition (CR). In ABDM, a delegatee must satisfy delegation constraint (especially DAE) when assigned to a delegation role. With delegation constraint, a delegator can restrict the delegatee candidates more strictly. ABDM relieves delegators and system administrators of security management work in PDM system and makes delegation more secure.
SHEET METAL FORMING PROCESSES AT ELEVATED TEMPERATURES
Authors: GROCHE P. , KLOEPSCH C.
Published: November 2008

On one hand lightweight sheet materials are characterized by high specific strength but on the other hand, they are limited in the design of sheet metal products. To extend the range of producible geometries, special forming processes at elevated temperatures have been developed. For describing the forming behavior at elevated temperatures or to design forming processes, the knowledge of relevant system parameters like flow stress, friction conditions and contact heat transmission coefficient is assumed. Additionally experimental results are presented to highlight the potential of sheet metal forming processes at elevated temperatures.
LOCAL USE OF BAKE HARDENING IN MULTIPHASE STEELS FOR IMPROVED PROPERTIES IN STRUCTURES AND JOINTS
Authors: PALKOWSKI HEINZ , BRUECK ANNA
Published: November 2008

This paper investigates processes leading to local bake hardening (BH) effects in multiphase steels. The influence of the deformation path and of the temperature and duration of thermal treatments on strengthening in multiphase steels, in regard to both local and bulk properties of steel structure are investigated. Bake hardening is the ability of a metal, to harden during an annealing after forming, for example during the paint baking process in the automobile industry, delivering a post-forming strength increase of the final component. Multiphase steels such as dual phase (DP) and complex phase (CP) steels are investigated to examine the effect of thermo mechanical processing parameters on the local bake hardening ability of hot rolled DP and CP steels. For this purpose two methods of achieving local BH (local deformation and local heat treatment) are studied. The influence of a local deformation through bending on the work hardening, and bake hardening effects is examined. By locally limited laser treatment on cold-rolled material local BH can be reached through local heat treatment. Furthermore, the ageing stability of the gain in strength is examined.
STUDY ON THE RABBIT SYSTEM FOR NEUTRON ACTIVATED ANALYSIS BASED ON SHENGUANG III PROTOTYPE
Authors: ZHOU QINQIN , LIAO QIANG
Published: November 2008

To resolve the transferring problem of neutron activated Cu (T1/2 = 9.74 min) sample on Shenguang III prototype, rabbit system is researched and designed. The problem such as smoothly transporting, decelerating and locating, and air-tight sealing between the pipe and rabbit are resolved. The experimental result shows that the rabbit will be successfully transferred 14.3 m within 1.12 s. In the same condition, the theoretical and actual curve of the "rabbit" movement characteristic fit very well, which means that the design of the rabbit device is successful.
RFID-BASED SYNCHRONIZATION OF INFORMATION FLOW AND MATERIAL FLOW
Authors: ZHENG HUA-LIN , WANG YUE-PAI , WAN XI-YUAN
Published: November 2008

RFID (Radio Frequency Identification) technology is put forward as a new data collection method to bridge the gap between information flow and material flow. The data achieved by RFID can be shared by both MES and ERP simultaneously. A simulated WIP (Work In Process) machining process application case study is used in the paper to show how the synchronization is realized.
DEMONSTRATIVE VERIFICATION STUDY FOR THE NEXT GENERATION PRODUCTION MODEL: APPLICATION OF THE ADVANCED TOYOTA PRODUCTION SYSTEM
Authors: SAKAI HIROHISA , AMASAKA KAKURO
Published: November 2008

Traditional TPS (Toyota Production System), the foundation of JIT (Just in Time), has contributed to global business in the latter half of the 20th century as a Japanese production management system methodology. At present, Japanese companies are endeavoring to survive in a competitive market by expanding their global production, achieving globally consistent levels of quality, and carrying out simultaneous new model launches. An advanced production management principle, "Advanced TPS", has been proposed, involving the systematization of Japanese production management methodologies as a strategic tool for global production. The effectiveness of the proposed "Advanced TPS" was verified at Toyota Motor Corporation.
Pathways of adipose tissue androgen metabolism in women: depot differences and modulation by adipogenesis
Authors: Blouin Karine , Nadeau Mélanie , Mailloux Jacques , Daris Marleen , Lebel Stephane , Luu-The Van , Tchernof André
Published: November 2008

The objective was to examine pathways of androgen metabolism in abdominal adipose tissue in women. Abdominal subcutaneous (SC) and omental (OM) adipose tissue samples were surgically obtained in women. Total RNA was isolated from whole adipose tissue samples and from primary preadipocyte cultures before and after induction of differentiation. Expression levels of several steroid-converting enzyme transcripts were examined by real-time RT-PCR. Androgen conversion rates were also measured. We found higher expression levels in SC compared with OM adipose tissue for type 1 3β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase (3β-HSD-1; P < 0.05), for aldo-keto reductase 1C3 (AKR1C3; P < 0.0001), for AKR1C2 ( P < 0.0001), and for the androgen receptor ( P < 0.0001). 17β-HSD-2 mRNA levels were lower in SC adipose tissue ( P < 0.05). Induction of adipocyte differentiation led to significantly increased expression levels in SC cultures for AKR1C3 (4.7-fold, P < 0.01), 11- cis-retinol dehydrogenase (6.9-fold, P < 0.02), AKR1C2 (5.6-fold, P < 0.004), P-450 aromatase (5.7-fold, P < 0.02), steroid sulfatase (3.1-fold, P < 0.02), estrogen receptor-β (11.8-fold, P < 0.01), and the androgen receptor (4.0-fold, P < 0.0005). Generally similar but nonsignificant trends were obtained in OM cultures. DHT inactivation rates increased with differentiation, this effect being mediated by dexamethasone alone, through a glucocorticoid receptor-dependent mechanism. In conclusion, higher mRNA levels of enzymes synthesizing and inactivating androgens are found in differentiated adipocytes, consistent with higher androgen-processing rates in these cells. Glucocorticoid-induced androgen inactivation may locally modulate the exposure of adipose cells to active androgens.
Proteomic changes associated with diabetes in the BB-DP rat
Authors: Johnson D. Thor , Harris Robert A. , French Stephanie , Aponte Angel , Balaban Robert S.
Published: November 2008

These studies were structured with the aim of utilizing emerging technologies in two-dimensional (2D) gel electrophoresis and mass spectrometry to evaluate protein expression changes associated with type 1 diabetes. We reasoned that a broad examination of diabetic tissues at the protein level might open up novel avenues of investigation of the metabolic and signaling pathways that are adversely affected in type 1 diabetes. This study compared the protein expression of the liver, heart, and skeletal muscle of diabetes-prone rats and matched control rats by semiquantitative liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry and differential in-gel 2D gel electrophoresis. Differential expression of 341 proteins in liver, 43 in heart, and 9 (2D gel only) in skeletal muscle was detected. These data were assembled into the relevant metabolic pathways affected primarily in liver. Multiple covalent modifications were also apparent in 2D gel analysis. Several new hypotheses were generated by these data, including mechanisms of net cytosolic protein oxidation, formaldehyde generation by the methionine cycle, and inhibition of carbon substrate oxidation via reduction in citrate synthase and short-chain acyl-CoA dehydrogenase.
Impact of body composition on very-low-density lipoprotein-triglycerides kinetics
Authors: Gormsen Lars C. , Nellemann Birgitte , Sørensen Lars P. , Jensen Michael D. , Christiansen Jens S. , Nielsen Søren
Published: November 2008

Upper body obese (UBO) subjects have greater cardiovascular disease risk than lower body obese (LBO) or lean subjects. Obesity is also associated with hypertriglyceridemia that may involve greater production and impaired removal of very-low-density lipoprotein (VLDL)-triglycerides (TG). In these studies, we assessed the impact of body composition on basal VLDL-TG production, VLDL-TG oxidation, and VLDL-TG storage. VLDL-TG kinetics were assessed in 10 UBO, 10 LBO, and 10 lean women using a bolus injection of [1-14C]VLDL-TG. VLDL-TG oxidation was measured by14CO2production (hyamine trapping) and VLDL-TG adipose tissue storage by fat biopsies. Insulin sensititvity was assessed by the hyperinsulinemic-euglycemic clamp technique and body composition by dual X-ray absorptiometry in combination with computed tomography. Hepatic VLDL-TG production was significantly greater in UBO than in lean women [(μmol/min) UBO: 64.8 (SD 40.0) vs. LBO: 42.5 (SD 25.6) vs. lean: 31.8 (SD 13.3), P = 0.04], whereas VLDL-TG oxidation was similar in the three groups and averaged 20% of resting energy expenditure [(μmol/min) UBO: 38.3 (SD 26.5) vs. LBO: 23.5 (SD 13.5) vs. lean: 21.1 (SD 9.7), P = 0.09]. In UBO women, more VLDL-TG was deposited in upper body subcutaneous fat [VLDL-TG redeposition in abdominal adipose tissue (μmol/min): UBO: 5.0 (SD 2.9) vs. LBO: 4.0 (SD 3.2) vs. lean: 1.3 (SD 1.0), ANOVA P = 0.01]; in LBO women, more VLDL-TG was deposited in femoral fat [VLDL-TG redeposition in femoral adipose tissue (μmol/min): UBO: 5.1 (SD 3.1) vs. LBO: 5.8 (SD 4.3) vs. lean: 2.3 (SD 1.5), ANOVA P = 0.04]. Only a small proportion of VLDL-TG (8–16%) was partitioned into redeposition in either group. We found that elevated VLDL-TG production without concomitant increased clearance via oxidation and adipose tissue redeposition contributes to hypertriglyceridemia in UBO women.
Repetitive paired stimulation of nasotrigeminal and peripheral chemoreceptor afferents cause progressive potentiation of the diving bradycardia
Authors: Rozloznik Miroslav , Paton Julian F. R. , Dutschmann Mathias
Published: November 2008

Hallmarks of the mammalian diving response are protective apnea and bradycardia. These cardiorespiratory adaptations can be mimicked by stimulation of the trigeminal ethmoidal nerve (EN5) and reflect oxygen-conserving mechanisms during breath-hold dives. Increasing drive from peripheral chemoreceptors during sustained dives was reported to enhance the diving bradycardia. The underlying neuronal mechanisms, however, are unknown. In the present study, expression and plasticity of EN5-bradycardias after paired stimulation of the EN5 and peripheral chemoreceptors was investigated in the in situ working heart-brain stem preparation. Paired stimulations enhanced significantly the bradycardic responses compared with EN5-evoked bradycardia using submaximal stimulation intensity. Alternating stimulations of the EN5 followed by paired stimulation of the EN5 and chemoreceptors (10 trials, 3-min interval) caused a progressive and significant potentiation of EN5-evoked diving bradycardia. In contrast, bradycardias during paired stimulation remained unchanged during repetitive stimulation. The progressive potentiation of EN5-bradycardias was significantly enhanced after microinjection of the 5-HT3 receptor agonist (CPBG hydrochloride) into the nucleus tractus solitarii (NTS), while the 5-HT3 receptor antagonist (zacopride hydrochloride) attenuated the progressive potentiation. These results suggest an integrative function of the NTS for the multimodal mediation of the diving response. The potentiation or training of a submaximal diving bradycardia requires peripheral chemoreceptor drive and involves neurotransmission via 5-HT3 receptor within the NTS.
Fluorescence isolation of mouse late distal convoluted tubules and connecting tubules: effects of vasopressin and vitamin D3 on Ca2+ signaling
Authors: Hofmeister Marlene V. , Fenton Robert A. , Praetorius Jeppe
Published: November 2008

The renal late distal convoluted tubules and connecting tubules are sites for the fine regulation of Na+ and Ca2+ reabsorption. The role of these segments in Na+ and K+ homeostasis is possibly underestimated, as the tubules are technically difficult to isolate in sufficient numbers and purity for functional analysis. To overcome these difficulties, we have developed a transgenic mouse model expressing enhanced green fluorescent protein in late distal convoluted tubules and connecting tubules. Enhanced green fluorescent protein expression was driven by the promoter for the transient receptor potential subfamily V, member 5. Confocal fluorescence microscopy allowed detection of enhanced green fluorescent protein in living, isolated late distal convoluted tubules and connecting tubules and in the initial cortical collecting ducts. Enhanced green fluorescent protein expression was validated by double- and triple-fluorescence immunolabeling with specific tubule markers. Freshly isolated late distal convoluted tubules and connecting tubules increased their intracellular Ca2+ levels in response to the V2 receptor-specific agonist deamino-Cys,d-Arg8-vasopressin (2 × 10−10 M) after 1 min of superfusion. In addition, both late distal convoluted tubules and connecting tubules displayed a concentration-dependent intracellular Ca2+ response to 1α,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3 (range 10−10 to 10−8 M). This suggests that 1α,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3 can act through a nongenomic signaling pathway in these tubules. In conclusion, the transgenic mouse model, expressing enhanced green fluorescent protein, is suitable for rapid isolation of viable late distal convoluted tubules, connecting tubules, and initial cortical collecting ducts and provides an ideal tool for a more exhaustive functional characterization of these segments.
Effects of physical activity on strength and skeletal muscle fat infiltration in older adults: a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Goodpaster Bret H. , Chomentowski Peter , Ward Bryan K. , Rossi Andrea , Glynn Nancy W. , Delmonico Matthew J. , Kritchevsky Stephen B. , Pahor Marco , Newman Anne B.
Published: November 2008

Considerable evidence suggests that the loss of strength and muscle mass appear to be inevitable consequences of aging. Moreover, aging is associated with an increase in body fat. This study examined whether increased physical activity could prevent or reverse the losses of strength and skeletal muscle mass as well as the gain in fat in older adults. Eleven men and 31 women completed a randomized trial consisting of either a physical activity (PA; n = 22) or successful aging health educational control (SA; n = 20) group. Isokinetic knee extensor strength and computed tomography-derived midthigh skeletal muscle and adipose tissue cross-sectional areas (CSA) were assessed at baseline and at 12 mo following randomization. Total body weight and muscle CSA decreased in both groups, but these losses were not different between groups. Strength adjusted for muscle mass decreased (−20.1 ± 9.3%, P < 0.05) in SA. The loss of strength was completely prevented in PA (+2.5 ± 8.3%). In addition, there was a significant increase (18.4 ± 6.0%) in muscle fat infiltration in SA, but this gain was nearly completely prevented in PA (2.3 ± 5.7%). In conclusion, regular physical activity prevents both the age-associated loss of muscle strength and increase in muscle fat infiltration in older adults with moderate functional limitations.
Reversal of Bimanual Feedback Responses With Changes in Task Goal
Authors: Diedrichsen Jörn , Gush Samantha
Published: November 2008

We show that fast bimanual coordinative feedback responses can be reversed with changes in task goals. Participants moved a flexible virtual object across a finish line with an upward movement of both hands. In one condition, the middle of the object had to be aligned with a spatial goal at the end of the movement. In the second condition, the object had to be kept at a specific length. During the movement, a velocity-dependent force field was applied randomly to one of the hands to the left or to the right. Depending on the task condition, the unperturbed hand showed fast feedback corrections, either in or against the direction of the force field on the other hand. In the object-length condition we found evidence for a mixture of task goals: early in the movement the correction of the unperturbed hand was aimed at stabilizing object length; later in the movement, the correction reversed direction to reach a symmetric body posture in the end of the movement. The observed differences in feedback responses between task conditions also influenced the covariance structure of unperturbed movements and the adaptation when a specific force field was applied repeatedly to one of the hands. The results are congruent with the notion that coordination is established flexibly through a representation of the task-relevant controlled variables, rather than through a direct interaction between motor commands.
Penile Corporeal Reconstruction during Difficult Placement of a Penile Prosthesis
Authors: Tran Viet Q. , Lesser Timothy F. , Kim Dennis H. , Aboseif Sherif R.
Published: November 2008

For some patients with impotence and concomitant severe tunical/corporeal tissue fibrosis, insertion of a penile prosthesis is the only option to restore erectile function. Closing the tunica over an inflatable penile prosthesis in these patients can be challenging. We review our previous study which included 15 patients with severe corporeal or tunical fibrosis who underwent corporeal reconstruction with autologous rectus fascia to allow placement of an inflatable penile prosthesis. At a mean follow-up of 18 months (range 12 to 64), all patients had aprosthesisthat was functioning properly without evidence of separation, herniation, or erosion of the graft. Sexual activity resumed at a mean time of 9 weeks (range 8 to 10). There were no adverse events related to the graft or its harvest. Use of rectus fascia graft for coverage of a tunical defect during a difficult penile prosthesis placement is surgically feasible, safe, and efficacious.
Circumcision Complications Associated with the Plastibell Device and Conventional Dissection Surgery: A Trial of 586 Infants of Ages up to 12 Months
Authors: Mousavi Seyed Abdollah , Salehifar Ebrahim
Published: November 2008

Conventional dissection surgery (CDS) or using the Plastibell device (PD) is the method most frequently employed for circumcision. The aim of this study was to evaluate two methods in terms of the incidence of complications in infants of ages up to 12 months. In a prospective study, 586 infants equal to or less than 12 months were studied from 2002 to 2008, and complications between the two groups were assessed. The overall rates of complications in CDS and PD groups were 1.95% and 7.08%, respectively. In each group, the rate of complications was not different among children who had a normal weight, compared to those of a lower or upper (10%) weight. There was a significant positive correlation between the age and weight of subjects within the time of ring separation (). The results of this study suggest the PD method for neonates and low-weight infants with thin prepuce and the CDS for other infants.
Tunneled Tunica Vaginalis Flap for Recurrent Urethrocutaneous Fistulae
Authors: Routh Jonathan C. , Wolpert James J. , Reinberg Yuri
Published: November 2008

The tubularized incised plate (TIP) hypospadias repair is currently the most widely used urethroplasty technique. The most significant post-TIP complication is urethrocutaneous fistula (UCF) development. Tunneled tunica vaginalis flap (TVF) is a well-described technique for the repair of UCF. We retrospectively reviewed all patients undergoing repeat repair of UCF after TIP repair from 2001 to 2005. Twelve boys underwent TVF repair at our institution for recurrent UCF. Fistulae ranged from distal penile to penoscrotal in location. Median surgical time was 45 minutes and no postoperative complications occurred. After a median follow-up of 32 months (range 16–48 months), no patient has yet had a recurrence of UCF. In conclusion, TVF repair is a successful technique for the treatment of UCF after previous failed repair. TVF is technically simple to perform and should be considered for treating UCF following TIP urethroplasty, particularly in a repeat surgical setting.
Permanence and Global Attractivity of a Delayed Discrete Predator‐Prey System with General Holling‐Type Functional Response and Feedback Controls
Authors: Chen Lijuan , Xu Junyan , Li Zhong
Published: November 2008

This paper discusses a delayed discrete predator‐prey system with general Holling‐type
functional response and feedback controls. Firstly, sufficient conditions are
obtained for the permanence of the system. After that, under some additional conditions,
we show that the periodic solution of the system is global stable.
Organ-Preserving Surgery for Penile Carcinoma
Authors: Martins Francisco E. , Rodrigues Raul N. , Lopes Tomé M.
Published: November 2008

Introduction. Penile carcinoma has traditionally been treated by either surgical amputation or radical radiotherapy, both associated with devastating anatomical, functional, and psychological impact on the patient's life. Innovative surgical techniques have focused on penile preservation in well-selected patients to minimize physical disfigurement and consequently maximize quality of life. The objective of this article is to define the current status of these organ-preserving surgical options for penile carcinoma.Materials and Methods. An extensive review of the Pubmed literature was performed to find articles discussing only reconstructive surgery which have contributed significantly to change traditional, frequently mutilating treatments, to develop less disfiguring surgery, and to improve patients' quality of life over the last two decades.Results. Several articles were included in this analysis in which a major contribution to the change in therapy was thought to have occurred and was documented as beneficial. Some articles reported novel techniques of less-mutilating surgery involving different forms of glans reconstruction with the use of flaps or grafts. The issue of safe surgical margins was also addressed.Conclusion. The development of less-disfiguring techniques allowing phallus preservation has reduced the negative impact on functional and cosmetic outcomes of amputation without sacrificing oncological objectives in appropriately selected patients based on stage, grade, and location of the tumour. Until more prospective studies are available and solid evidence is documented, organ preservation should be offered with caution.
Enhancing Artificial Intelligence on a Real Mobile Game
Authors: Aiolli Fabio , Palazzi Claudio E.
Published: November 2008

Mobile games represent a killer application that is attracting millions of subscribers worldwide.
One of the aspects crucial to the commercial success of a game is ensuring an appropriately
challenging artificial intelligence (AI) algorithm against which to play. However, creating this
component is particularly complex as classic search AI algorithms cannot be employed by limited
devices such as mobile phones or, even on more powerful computers, when considering imperfect
information games (i.e., games in which participants do not a complete knowledge of the game
state at any moment). In this paper, we propose to solve this issue by resorting to a machine
learning algorithm which uses profiling functionalities in order to infer the missing information,
thus making the AI able to efficiently adapt its strategies to the human opponent. We studied a
simple and computationally light machine learning method that can be employed with success,
enabling AI improvements for imperfect information games even on mobile phones. We created a
mobile phone‐based version of a game called Ghosts and present results which clearly show the
ability of our algorithm to quickly improve its own predictive performance as far as the number of
games against the same human opponent increases.
Comparative Reproduction Aspects of the Deep-water ShrimpsAristaeomorpha foliaceaandAristeus antennatus(Decapoda, Aristeidae) in the Greek Ionian Sea (Eastern Mediterranean)
Authors: Kapiris K. , Thessalou-Legaki M.
Published: November 2008

In the eastern Ionian Sea, the deep-water shrimpsAristaeomorpha foliaceaandAristeus antennatusconstitute a virgin fishing resource, since their maximum abundance depth exceeds commercial exploitation depths. The two sympatric species share a number of common reproductive features, such as summer reproduction. A slight temporal shift in mating activity, ovarian maturation, and spawning period was observed between species. The most notable difference was the more pronounced seasonality in reproductive activity ofAristeus antennatuscompared to that ofA. foliaceaas evidenced by the frequency of inseminated females and functionally mature males, as well as by the shorter ovarian maturation period. Nevertheless, regarding the whole life span, both sexes ofAristeus antennatusexhibit a more extended reproductive activity in comparison toA. foliacea. No notable differentiation of both species existed in comparison to other Mediterranean regions.
Gemini Vitamin D Analogues Inhibit Estrogen Receptor–Positive and Estrogen Receptor–Negative Mammary Tumorigenesis without Hypercalcemic Toxicity
Authors: Lee Hong Jin , Paul Shiby , Atalla Nadi , Thomas Paul E. , Lin Xinjie , Yang Ill , Buckley Brian , Lu Gang , Zheng Xi , Lou You-Rong , Conney Allan H. , Maehr Hubert , Adorini Luciano , Uskokovic Milan , Suh Nanjoo
Published: November 2008

Numerous preclinical, epidemiologic, and clinical studies have suggested the benefits of vitamin D and its analogues for the prevention and treatment of cancer. However, the hypercalcemic effects have limited the use of 1α,25(OH)2D3, the hormonally active form of vitamin D. To identify vitamin D analogues with better efficacy and low toxicity, we have tested >60 novel Gemini vitamin D analogues with a unique structure of two side chains for growth inhibition of breast cancer cells. Our initial studies found that some Gemini analogues are 5–15 times more active than 1α,25(OH)2D3 in growth inhibition assay. In vivo experiments were designed to study the inhibitory effect of selected Gemini vitamin D analogues against mammary carcinogenesis by using (a) an N-methyl-N-nitrosourea–induced estrogen receptor (ER)-positive mammary tumor model and (b) an MCF10DCIS.com xenograft model of ER-negative mammary tumors. Among vitamin D analogues we tested, Gemini 0072 [1α,25-dihydroxy-20S-21(3-trideuteromethyl-3-hydroxy-4,4,4-trideuterobutyl)-23-yne-26,27-hexafluoro-19-nor-cholecalciferol] and Gemini 0097 [1α,25-dihydroxy-20R-21(3-trideuteromethyl-3-hydroxy-4,4,4-trideuterobutyl)-23-yne-26,27-hexafluoro-19-nor-cholecalciferol] administration inhibited by 60% the NMU-induced mammary tumor burden compared with the NMU-treated control group, but these compounds were devoid of hypercalcemia toxicity. In an ER-negative xenograft model, Gemini 0097 significantly suppressed tumor growth without hypercalcemia toxicity. We found that the inhibitory effect of Gemini 0097 was associated with an increased level of cyclin-dependent kinase inhibitor p21 and the insulin-like growth factor binding protein 3 in both ER-positive and ER-negative mammary tumors. Our results suggest that Gemini vitamin D analogues may be potent agents for the prevention and treatment of both ER-positive and ER-negative breast cancer without hypercalcemia toxicity.
Single Nucleotide Polymorphism–Based Genome-Wide Chromosome Copy Change, Loss of Heterozygosity, and Aneuploidy in Barrett's Esophagus Neoplastic Progression
Authors: Li Xiaohong , Galipeau Patricia C. , Sanchez Carissa A. , Blount Patricia L. , Maley Carlo C. , Arnaudo Jessica , Peiffer Daniel A. , Pokholok Dmitry , Gunderson Kevin L. , Reid Brian J.
Published: November 2008

Chromosome copy gain, loss, and loss of heterozygosity (LOH) involving most chromosomes have been reported in many cancers; however, less is known about chromosome instability in premalignant conditions. 17p LOH and DNA content abnormalities have been previously reported to predict progression from Barrett's esophagus (BE) to esophageal adenocarcinoma (EA). Here, we evaluated genome-wide chromosomal instability in multiple stages of BE and EA in whole biopsies. Forty-two patients were selected to represent different stages of progression from BE to EA. Whole BE or EA biopsies were minced, and aliquots were processed for flow cytometry and genotyped with a paired constitutive control for each patient using 33,423 single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNP). Copy gains, losses, and LOH increased in frequency and size between early- and late-stage BE (P < 0.001), with SNP abnormalities increasing from <2% to >30% in early and late stages, respectively. A set of statistically significant events was unique to either early or late, or both, stages, including previously reported and novel abnormalities. The total number of SNP alterations was highly correlated with DNA content aneuploidy and was sensitive and specific to identify patients with concurrent EA (empirical receiver operating characteristic area under the curve = 0.91). With the exception of 9p LOH, most copy gains, losses, and LOH detected in early stages of BE were smaller than those detected in later stages, and few chromosomal events were common in all stages of progression. Measures of chromosomal instability can be quantified in whole biopsies using SNP-based genotyping and have potential to be an integrated platform for cancer risk stratification in BE.