bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Rapid microwave synthesis of Pb5(VO4)3X (X = F, Cl, Br and I) vanadinite apatites for the immobilisation of halide radioisotopes.
Authors: Stennett Martin C. , Pinnock Ian J. , Hyatt Neil C.
Published: November 2012

Microwave dielectric heating was utilized to synthesize potential host phases for halide radioisotopes. Synthesis of Pb5(VO4)3I was successfully achieved, without the use of a sealed container, using a modified domestic microwave oven (DMO) operating at 2.45 GHz. Rapid synthesis of Pb5(VO4)3X (X = F, Cl, Br) was also achieved using a commercially available microwave muffle furnace, also operating at 2.45 GHz. The combination of rapid heating rate and inverse temperature profile characteristic of microwave heating was found to promote formation of the target phases whilst retarding the volatilization of the halide species. Pb5(VO4)3I ceramic bodies produced in the DMO exhibited a heterogeneous zoned microstructure, whereas Pb5(VO4)3X phases with X = F, Cl, and Br fabricated in the microwave muffle furnace were dimensionally uniform suggesting this could be a promising route to fabricating single phase, dense halide containing ceramics.
Buffering of pH conditions in sodium bentonite
Authors: Pulkkanen Veli-Matti S. , Itälä Aku P. , Muurinen Arto K.
Published: November 2012

A bentonite buffer is a part of the engineering barrier system of the geological disposal concept for spent nuclear fuel in Finland. The chemical conditions in the bentonite porewater determine the solubility, speciation and diffusion/sorption behaviour of the radionuclides in the bentonite. The OH-groups on the edge sites of the montmorillonite, the main component of bentonite, can buffer the pH conditions especially in the case that the buffering capacity of the accessory minerals is small. In this work, the pH conditions created by the interaction of sodium montmorillonite and an acetate buffer solution were studied experimentally in batch experiments and in compacted sodium montmorillonite. In the experiment with the compacted sample, the ends of an 18.4 mm long cylinder were exposed to an external solution of 0.3 M NaCl and 0.1 M acetate adjusted to pH 5 with NaOH. The effects were monitored by measuring the pH in the montmorillonite sample at 5 mm and 9.2 mm from the solution-montmorillonite interface as a function of time. The batch experiment was modelled considering the surface reactions of montmorillonite and the dissolution reactions of calcite and the added constituents to explain the observed phenomena.
Safety assessment methodology focused on response characteristics of the disposal system and safety assessment for TRU waste in Japan
Authors: Ohi T. , Ueda H. , Hyodo H. , Chiba T. , Takase T. , Takamura H.
Published: November 2012

In order to enhance the safety of geological disposal and the reliability of the safety assessment carried out for each stage of the geological disposal project, an assessment methodology focused on a sensitivity analysis and an evaluation of importance, which incorporates “system understanding” and “information feedback” into the existing assessment approach, has been developed in this study. In this paper, the assessment methodology and the assessment results as applied for the transuranic (TRU) waste disposal system in Japan will be described. In the sensitivity analysis, an approximate analytical solution was used in order to understand the response characteristics of the engineered barrier system (EBS). In the importance evaluation, important factors relating to the robustness of system safety were identified based on the response characteristics. Furthermore, important features, events, and processes (FEPs) related to such factors and high-impact scenarios were identified based on the information accumulated through “system understanding” and “information feedback”. Based on this approach, the robustness of the TRU waste disposal system was assessed and measures for improving the robustness were identified.
Characterization of Cement Microstructure for the Immobilization of Nuclear Waste Using Advanced Imaging Methods
Authors: Engelberg D.L. , Duff J.A. , Murray L. , Dodds L. , Mobasher N. , Withers P.J.
Published: November 2012

A range of advanced imaging techniques have been brought together to provide a comprehensive picture of cement microstructure for nuclear waste immobilization. Image analysis of Nirex Reference Vault Backfill (NRVB) has been used to characterize the Calcium-Silicate-Hydrate (C-S-H) matrix fraction. Through weight loss measurements and digital image correlation of OPC-based cement blends we have quantified the development of microstructure surface strains during the initial 48 hrs hardening period. The build-up of displacements on the microstructure scale indicated grain-like compressive areas, surrounded by a network of tensile regions. Serial sectioning of NRVB using ultra-microtome cutting has been explored for advanced high-resolution 3D microstructure characterization, while X-ray Computed Tomography (XCT) has been used to obtain information of the 3-D pore space and size distribution of air pores in NRVB non-destructively.
Limitations on Roll Based Microcontact Printing Imposed by Variations in Macro Scale Stamp Dimensions
Authors: Petrzelka Joseph E. , Hardt David E.
Published: November 2012

Microcontact printing is a versatile patterning technique, but is often limited by deformation of the stamp pattern. This paper examines the sensitivity of stamp pressure distributions to variations in displacement when the microcontact printing stamp is mounted on a rigid roll. To this end, we examine analytic and numeric solutions to the contact problem and verify our models with experimental data. Using these results, we provide insight to process limits imposed by dimensional errors in the printing system.
Electroplate-and-Lift (E&L) Lithography on Reusable, Patterned Ultrananocrystalline Diamond (UNCD) Templates for Rapid Prototyping of Micro- and Nanowires.
Authors: Jones Dylan , Lepak Lori A. , Sumant Anirudha V. , Divan Ralu , Auciello Orlando , Seley David B. , Dissing Daniel A. , Miller Suzanne , Rosenmann Daniel , Daniels Ephriam , Gervais Ruth , Zach Michael P.
Published: November 2012

As device sizes are scaled down nearly to their atomic limits, the development of economically viable methods which may continue to improve device performance in accordance with Moore’s Law becomes ever more challenging. The recently developed technique of Electroplate-and-Lift (E&L) lithography promises to be an inexpensive, widely applicable method for the reproducible, controlled fabrication of micro- and nanostructures. In this study, E&L is applied to the fabrication of patterned copper micro- and nanowires as a model system. Copper wires with diameters ranging from 10 m to 200 nm have been produced using a single ultrananocrystalline diamond (UNCD)TM template, by varying only the electroplating time.

To quantify the relationship between copper wire diameter and deposition time, wires were electroplated at -0.4 V vs. the saturated calomel electrode (SCE) for durations between 2.5 and 160 s, then imaged by optical microscopy and/or scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Images were analyzed by identifying wire segments with ImageJ and examining the statistical distribution of wire diameters using Excel. This analysis verified theoretical predictions of a linear dependence between mean wire diameter and the square root of growth time.
Enhanced Open Circuit Voltage in Aluminum Confined Post-Annealing of poly(3-hexylthiophene)/fullerene Bulk Heterojunction Solar Cells under Electric Field
Authors: Kumar Mukesh , Dutta Pavel , Bommisetty Venkat
Published: November 2012

The effect of an external electric field during post-annealing on the device characteristics of poly(3-hexylthiophene) (P3HT) and phenyl-C61butyric acid methyl ester (PCBM) bulk heterojunction solar cells was studied. The application of external electric field in forward bias resulted in significant enhancement in Voc and fill factor whereas devices annealed under reverse bias had an enhanced Jsc. Both forward and reverse bias annealing increased the shunt resistance. The Al - blend interface topography and carrier dynamics were studied using conducting atomic force microscopy and frequency dependent intensity modulated photocurrent spectroscopy (IMPS). The results indicate that post-annealing under external electric field can be used to engineer the interface composition to enhance the charge transport in bulk heterojunction solar cells to improve the device performance.
Electron energy and geometry parameters of InGaAs/GaAs quantum rings: an interpretation of C-V data
Authors: Filikhin I. , Suslov V. M. , Wu M. , Dukic M. , Melikyan H. , Vlahovic B.
Published: November 2012

We investigate the electronic properties of InAs/GaAs quantum rings (QRs) in a magnetic field using an original effective potential model based on a single band kp-approximation with an energy dependent effective mass. We used two sets of geometrical parameters for the selfassembled QRs. The first is the experimentally proposed geometry; the second follows from the oscillator model due to the relation between the model parameters and the real sizes of the quantum objects. The energy of an electron in a magnetic field, calculated for each of the geometries, is compared with C-V experimental data. We show that the results of the calculation obtained for the second geometry fit the experimental data rather well. Interpretation of the recent C-V data given by W. Lei et al. (Appl. Phys. Lett. 96 (2010) 033111) on the basis of the oscillator model is discussed.
Investigation of Nanophysical Properties of Aging Polyamide Nanofibrillar Tissue Scaffolds by TEM, SAED, Contact Angle and Raman Spectroscopies
Authors: Ayres Virginia M. , Xie Kan , Tiryaki Volkan Mujdat , Ahmed Ijaz , Shreiber David I.
Published: November 2012

The nanoscale physical properties of newly electrospun polyamide nanofibrillar matrices < 1 year old versus those that were > 3 year old were investigated with transmission electron microscopy, selected area electron diffraction, contact angle measurements, and Raman spectroscopy. Significant differences in crystallinity, hydrophobicity, and chemistry were found and correspondingly different cell responses by cerebellar granular neurons were observed. The properties of the aged nanofibrillar scaffolds evoked a response for neuron burrowing into a more 3-dimensional environment in addition to better facilitation of neurite outgrowth. The nanophysical properties of tissue scaffolds have been recently shown to directly and indirectly regulate cellular responses. As physical properties can evolve over time, the present investigation addresses the issue of tissue scaffold shelf life, with possible changes in directive signals to cells.
Effect of BMP-2 Derived Peptide Grafted to Nanoparticles on Differentiation of Stromal Cells
Authors: Jabbari Esmaiel , Mercado Angel E. , Ma Junyu , He Xuezhong
Published: November 2012

Recombinant humanbone morphogenetic protein (rhBMP-2) plays a major role in differentiation of marrow stromal cells (MSCs). Peptides based on the active domains of rhBMP- 2, like the LYLTSIASLETPVSSAKPIK (BMP peptide), have been proposed as an alternative to reduce the side effects associated with high doses of rhBMP-2. The objective of this work was to determine the osteogenic activity of the BMP peptide grafted to poly(lactide fumarate) nanoparticles (PLAF NPs). A cysteine-terminated BMP peptide was grafted to PLAF NPs by linking the cysteine residue to the fumarate groups. Groups included blank NPs, free BMP peptide, free BMP-2 protein, and BMP-grafted NPs. The decrease in cell numbers after 21 days was consistent with an increase in mineral content and decrease in proliferation with osteogenic differentiation of MSCs. Alkaline phosphatase (ALPase) activity peaked at 14 days, consistent with the start of the osteogenic cascade. A slightly higher mineral content was observed in the BMP-grafted NP group after 14 days. m-RNA and immunostaining showed that cells in the BMP-grafted NP group had a higher content of osteocalcin protein after 21 days. Results suggest that the BMP-grafted NPs have a greater affinity to BMP cell surface receptors, leading to a stronger activation of the pathways leading to osteogenesis.
Orthopedic implants from bioactive rosette nanotubes/poly(2-hydroxyethyl methacrylate)/nano-hydroxyapatite composites
Authors: Sun Linlin , Zhang Lijie , Hemraz Usha D. , Fenniri Hicham , Webster Thomas J.
Published: November 2012

With multifunctionality and nanoscale dimensions, self-assembled rosette nanotubes (RNTs) exhibit unique biological and mechanical properties, making them promising to serve as a new generation of implants. Synthetic twin G^C base features the hydrogen bonding arrays of both guanine and cytosine and has the ability to self-organize spontaneously into nanotubes with a 3.5 nm outer diameter, a 1.1 nm inner channel running the length of the nanotube which can reach several micrometers in length. In this study, a twin G^C motif functionalized with an aminobutyl side chain (referred to as TBL) was synthesized, assembled into bioactive RNTs and used along with poly(2-hydroxyethyl methacrylate) (pHEMA) and hydroxyapatite (HA) nanoparticles to prepare RNTs/HA/pHEMA composites for orthopedic applications. The properties of these composites was investigated, notably the solidification process, surface morphology, mechanical properties, and cytocompatibility properties. The RNTs assembled from TBL and HA nanoparticles were found to be effective towards increasing the bioactivity of the composites thus establishing the potential of TBL/HA/pHEMA composites as very promising injectable orthopedic implant materials.
Spray-deposited Co-Pi Catalyzed BiVO4: a low-cost route towards highly efficient photoanodes
Authors: Abdi Fatwa F. , Firet Nienke , Dabirian Ali , van de Krol Roel
Published: November 2012

Bismuth vanadate (BiVO4) thin films are deposited by a low-cost and scalable spray pyrolysis method. Its performance under AM1.5 illumination is mainly limited by slow water oxidation kinetics. We confirm that cobalt phosphate (Co-Pi) is an efficient water oxidation catalyst for BiVO4. The optimum thickness of BiVO4 is 300 nm, resulting in an AM1.5 photocurrent of 1.9 mA/cm2 at 1.23 V vs. RHE when catalyzed with Co-Pi. Once the water oxidation limitation is removed, the performance is limited by low charge separation efficiency. This causes more than 60% of the electron-hole pairs to recombine before reaching the respective interfaces. The slow electron transport is shown to be the main cause of this low efficiency, and future efforts should therefore be focused on addressing this key limitation.
Phase Transformation Related Conductivity Degradation of NiO Doped YSZ: AnIn-situMicro-Raman Analysis
Authors: Kishimoto Haruo , Yashiro Keiji , Shimonosono Taro , Brito Manuel E. , Yamaji Katsuhiko , Horita Teruhisa , Yokokawa Harumi , Mizusaki Junichiro
Published: November 2012

In-situ micro Raman spectroscopy has been adopted as one of the most powerful analytical techniques with high spacial resolution under controlled atmospheres. In the present study, phase transformation of NiO doped yttria stabilized zirconia (YSZ) was monitored by in-situ micro-Raman spectroscopy. Raman spectra change caused by the phase transformation from the cubic phase to the tetragonal phase was observed for the NiO doped YSZ during annealing at a high temperature of 1173 K under reducing atmosphere.
Stochastic analysis of reinforced concrete beams with corroded reinforcement
Authors: Balaji Rao K. , Anoop M. B.
Published: November 2012

The life cycle design of reinforced concrete members subjected to chloride-induced corrosion of reinforcement requires that the design satisfies reliability requirements at different times (to ensure satisfactory performance at different times). This requires development of a rational framework for carrying out time-variant reliability analysis of reinforced concrete structural members. Two possible approaches to this, namely the classical approach and the Monte Carlo simulation approach, are presented. Reliability analyses were carried out for singly reinforced concrete flexural members, made of ordinary Portland cement concrete and concrete with 30% pulverized fuel ash, located in a splash zone environment, and subjected to chloride-induced corrosion. Results indicate that the Monte Carlo simulation technique, although computationally expensive, can be used for realistic estimation of failure probabilities.
Experimental and numerical investigation of diffuse instability in granular materials using a microstructural model under various loading paths
Authors: DAOUADJI A. , HICHER P.-Y. , JRAD M. , SUKUMARAN B. , BELOUETTAR S.
Published: November 2012

Depending on stress state and loading conditions, instability in loose sand can develop at a shear stress level much lower than the Mohr–Coulomb failure criterion. This type of failure mode, very different from strain-softening in dense sand, can lead to catastrophic collapse of earth structures. An appropriate constitutive model is therefore needed that can capture the correct failure modes and accurately predict the stress–strain response for both dense and loose sands. In this paper, a micromechanical approach developed earlier for the modelling of granular material behaviour is adopted. The constitutive model is utilised to simulate undrained triaxial, constant-q and proportional strain tests on loose sand, and numerical results are compared with experimental results. The model is capable of accurately reproducing the macroscopic experimental tests, and is also able to provide microstructural information. This enables the observation of instability at the particle scale, and provides a better understanding of the linkage between particle-scale instability and instability at the assembly level.
Leaf herbivory increases plant fitness via induced resistance to seed predators
Authors: McArt Scott H. , Halitschke Rayko , Salminen Juha-Pekka , Thaler Jennifer S.
Published: November 2012

Early‐season herbivory can cause plants to induce resistance to subsequent herbivores, and this ubiquitous plant defense strategy has been shown to be adaptive when subsequent vegetative‐feeding herbivores impact plant fitness. However, a growing number of studies show that leaf herbivory can also induce defenses in plant reproductive tissues, which may deter mutualists such as pollinators and seed dispersers, or antagonists such as florivores and seed predators. Due to their direct interaction with plant reproductive tissues, deterrence of these mutualists or antagonists may have large negative or positive effects on plant fitness. Despite numerous predictions, we know little regarding the fitness consequences of leaf‐to‐reproductive tissue induction in nature. Here, using observations of natural populations and manipulative field experiments, we show that leaf herbivory by the invasive Japanese beetle (Popillia japonica) induces an accumulation of jasmonic acid and complex phenolics in reproductive tissues of the common evening primrose (Oenothera biennis). Consequently, seed predation by three native Lepidoptera is reduced by 77% on beetle‐induced plants, while leaf herbivory itself has little impact on lifetime reproductive output. These results show that O. biennis benefits from being consumed by an invasive folivore, and that leaf‐to‐reproductive tissue induction can be an adaptive trait. Induced plant defenses can therefore be beneficial in a broader community context than previously realized.
Association Between Sex Steroid Hormones and Hematocrit in a Nationally Representative Sample of Men
Authors: Paller Channing J. , Shiels Meredith S. , Rohrmann Sabine , Menke Andy , Rifai Nader , Nelson William G. , Platz Elizabeth A. , Dobs Adrian S.
Published: November 2012

Abstract: Low or high hematocrit levels are associated with increased morbidity and mortality, mediated via anemia or thromboembolic events, respectively. It is therefore important to identify factors that influence hematocrit. Although androgens are known to stimulate hematopoietic cells, it is unknown whether circulating sex steroid hormones affect hematocrit. The association between serum sex steroid hormone concentrations and hematocrit in men aged ≥20 years was evaluated in a cross‐sectional study of 1273 men in the Third National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (1988–1991). Outcomes were low (<10th percentile), high (>90th percentile), and mean hematocrit. Men with low free testosterone levels had a lower hematocrit than men with normal free testosterone levels (P / .03), although no relationship was found between total testosterone level and hematocrit. The relationship between sex hormone–binding globulin (SHBG) and hematocrit was complex, with both low (P < .001) and high (P = .01) SHBG levels associated with lower hematocrit in men aged ≥20 years and only high (P = .01) SHBG levels in men aged ≥50 years. The odds ratio (OR) of high vs normal hematocrit increased as total estradiol (OR, 2.84; P trend = .04) and free estradiol (OR, 2.23; P trend = .09) levels increased. In this nationally representative study of men, sex steroid hormone levels, particularly low free testosterone and high SHBG levels, were associated with lower hematocrit, and high total and free estradiol levels were associated with high hematocrit. Thus, changes in sex hormone levels with aging may contribute to the increased prevalence of anemia and thromboembolic stroke in men as they age.
A Unique Patient Presenting With Concomitant Klinefelter Syndrome, Alport Syndrome, and Craniopharyngioma
Authors: Rotondi Mario , Fallerini Chiara , Pirali Barbara , Longo Ilaria , Pasquali Daniela , Rampino Teresa , Chiovato Luca , Mari Francesca , Renieri Alessandra
Published: November 2012

Abstract: A 31‐year‐old Caucasian male was referred for panhypopituitarism resulting from a surgically removed craniopharyngioma. The patient had been previously submitted to kidney transplantation for end‐stage renal disease from X‐linked Alport syndrome (ATS). Subsequent quantitative fluorescent polymerase chain reaction analysis indicated a 47,XXY karyotype consistent with Klinefelter syndrome (KS). The relevance of this unique case stems from several issues: 1) KS was an unexpected finding because of a previous diagnosis of hypogonadotropic hypogonadism resulting from craniopharyngioma; 2) the discovery of a de novo p.G406S substitution causing ATS; and 3) the multifactor origin of severe sexual dysfunction. This is the first description of the co‐occurrence of KS, ATS, and craniopharyngioma.
Nandrolone, an Anabolic Steroid, Stabilizes Numb Protein Through Inhibition of mdm2 in C2C12 Myoblasts
Authors: Liu Xin‐Hua , Yao Shen , Levine Alice C. , Kirschenbaum Alexander , Pan Jiangping , Wu Yong , Qin Weiping , Collier Lauren , Bauman William A. , Cardozo Christopher P.
Published: November 2012

Abstract: Nandrolone, an anabolic steroid, slows denervation atrophy of rat muscle, prevents denervation‐induced nuclear accumulation of intracellular domain of the Notch receptor, and elevates expression of Numb. Numb acts as an inhibitor of Notch signaling and promotes myogenic differentiation of satellite cells. Turnover of Numb is regulated by mdm2, an E3 ubiquitin ligase. With these considerations in mind, we investigated the effects of nandrolone on the expression of Numb and mdm2 proteins and determined the effect of mdm2 on nandrolone‐induced alterations in Numb protein in C2C12 myoblasts. When C2C12 cells were cultured in a medium favoring differentiation (Dulbecco modified Eagle medium containing 2% horse serum), nandrolone up‐regulated Numb protein levels in a time‐dependent manner and prolonged Numb protein half‐life from 10 to 18 hours. In contrast, nandrolone reduced the expression of mdm2 protein. To determine whether the decreased mdm2 expression induced by nandrolone was responsible for the increased levels and prolonged half‐life of Numb protein in this cell line, mdm2–small interfering RNA (siRNA) was employed to inhibit mdm2 expression. Compared to cells transfected with scrambled siRNA (negative control), transfection with mdm2‐siRNA increased basal Numb protein expression but abolished the further increase in Numb protein levels by nandrolone. In addition, transfection of mdm2‐siRNA mimicked the effect of nandrolone to prolong the half‐life of Numb protein. Moreover, when C2C12 cells were forced to overexpress mdm2, there was a significant decline in the expression of both basal and inducible Numb protein. Our data suggest that nandrolone, by a novel mechanism for this agent in a muscle cell type, increases Numb protein levels in C2C12 myoblasts by stabilizing Numb protein against degradation, at least in part, via suppression of mdm2 expression.
Luteinizing Hormone (LH)–Releasing Hormone Agonist Reduces Serum Adrenal Androgen Levels in Prostate Cancer Patients: Implications for the Effect of LH on the Adrenal Glands
Authors: Nishii Masahiro , Nomura Masashi , Sekine Yoshitaka , Koike Hidekazu , Matsui Hiroshi , Shibata Yasuhiro , Ito Kazuto , Oyama Tetsunari , Suzuki Kazuhiro
Published: November 2012

Abstract: Recently, adrenal androgens have been targeted as key hormones for the development of castration‐resistant prostate cancer therapeutics. Although circulating adrenal androgens originate mainly from the adrenal glands, the testes also supply about 10%. Although widely used in androgen deprivation medical castration therapy, the effect of luteinizing hormone–releasing hormone (LH‐RH) agonist on adrenal androgens has not been fully studied. In this study, changes in testicular and adrenal androgen levels were measured and compared to adrenocorticotropic hormone levels. To assess the possible role of LH in the adrenal glands, immunohistochemical studies of the LH receptor in normal adrenal glands were performed. Forty‐seven patients with localized or locally progressive prostate cancer were treated with LH‐RH agonist with radiotherapy. Six months after initiation of treatment, testosterone, dihydrotestosterone, and estradiol levels were decreased by 90%–95%, and dehydroepiandrosterone‐sulfate, dehydroepiandrosterone, and androstenedione levels were significantly decreased by 26%–40%. The suppressive effect of LH‐RH agonist at 12 months was maintained. Adrenocorticotropic hormone levels showed an increasing trend at 6 months and a significant increase at 12 months. LH receptors were positively stained in the cortex cells of the reticular layer of the adrenal glands. The long‐term LH‐RH agonist treatment reduced adrenal‐originated adrenal androgens. LH receptors in the adrenal cortex cells of the reticular layer might account for the underlying mechanism of reduced adrenal androgens.
The Semen Quality of 1158 Men With Testicular Cancer at the Time of Cryopreservation: Results of the French National CECOS Network
Authors: Rives Nathalie , Perdrix Anne , Hennebicq Sylviane , Saïas‐Magnan Jacqueline , Melin Marie‐Claude , Berthaut Isabelle , Barthélémy Claire , Daudin Myriam , Szerman Ethel , Bresson Jean‐Luc , Brugnon Florence , Bujan Louis
Published: November 2012

Abstract: Testicular cancer is the most common cancer in young men. Several studies have reported an alteration in semen quality in nonseminoma tumors, but this result has not been confirmed in all of the published data. We performed a retrospective study in a population of 1158 men with testicular cancer who banked sperm between 1999 and 2003 in 11 French Centre d'Etude et de Conservation des Oeufs et du Sperme humain laboratories. Our study evaluated prefreeze and postthaw sperm parameters according to patient medical history, tumor histological type, and disease stage. Pure seminomas were found in 48% of our population. Testicular cancer was generally diagnosed at stage I. In cases of a history of unilateral cryptorchidism, testicular cancer occurred preferentially in the maldescended testis. Semen samples were preferentially collected after orchiectomy. The sperm concentration and total sperm number were significantly lower before orchiectomy in seminomas compared with nonseminoma tumors (P < .001). After orchiectomy, these parameters decreased for nonseminoma tumors and did not vary for seminomas. Semen parameters were more severely impaired for stage III tumors, and when patients had a history of cryptorchidism or when they were less than 20 years of age. Azoospermia was more frequently observed before than after orchiectomy. In this study, we determined that sperm cryobanking should preferentially be performed before orchiectomy and that testicular sperm extraction concurrent with orchiectomy should be used in severe spermatogenesis impairment. Our study highlights that seminomas alter sperm production more significantly than nonseminoma tumors and seem to preferentially impair spermatogenesis in tumor‐bearing testes.
Monthly Variation in Acute Urinary Retention Incidence Among Patients With Benign Prostatic Enlargement in Taiwan
Authors: Keller Joseph J. , Lin Ching‐Chun , Chen Chin‐Shyan , Chen Yi‐Kuang , Lin Herng‐Ching
Published: November 2012

Abstract: Acute urinary retention (AUR) is characterized by a sudden and painful inability to pass urine and is the most common urological emergency. However, according to our knowledge, no study to date has attempted to explore the monthly variation of AUR after adjusting for climatic parameters. This study aimed to examine the monthly variation of AUR due to benign prostatic enlargement (BPE) in Taiwan. The data used in this study were sourced from 2 datasets: the Longitudinal Health Insurance Database 2005 and a meteorological dataset supplied by the Taiwan Central Weather Bureau. We identified 1406 patients aged 40 years or more with a diagnosis of BPE that could all be followed throughout a 6‐year study period (2003–2008). We used the autoregressive integrated moving average (ARIMA) method to examine the incidence of AUR for seasonality. The results show that January (midwinter) had the highest rates, decreasing in March to a trough in June (early summer). The incidence then increased again and reached a peak in December (early winter). The ARIMA test also revealed significant monthly variation in the incidence of AUR. In addition, the ARIMA regression revealed that January, February, August, October, November, and December had significantly higher monthly incidence rates of AUR compared with June, after adjusting for the time trend effect and climatic parameters. Our study concluded that significant monthly variation in the incidence of AUR occurred, and January (midwinter) had the highest rates.
Highly Active Antiretroviral Therapy (HAART) and Testicular Morphology: Current Status and a Case for a Stereologic Approach
Authors: Azu Onyemaechi O.
Published: November 2012

Abstract: As antiretroviral therapy becomes increasingly accessible, the associated improvements in the health, quality of life, and survival of patients are anticipated to influence the fertility determinants of patients, specifically young males, within the reproductive axis. Therefore, the understanding of testicular histology in patients with HIV/AIDS undergoing therapeutic management is essential, because the sexual route is one of the main means of transmission of HIV, which is localized primarily in the germ cells of the testes. It is also important to determine whether any changes have occurred in the testicular histologic patterns in the course of the HIV/AIDS therapy. This review highlights the views of experts that current therapy and prolongation of survival in HIV/AIDS patients are associated with a shift in the histologic findings of testes toward a more pronounced loss of germ cells. There have been attempts to use stereologic size and number estimators to quantify the volume or number of biologically significant reference spaces and objects from their appearance on two‐dimensional sections without introducing bias from inappropriate assumptions, models, or correction formulas. Therefore, morphologic changes related to altered distribution of highly active retroviral therapy within the testis and the consequent endocrine perturbations characteristic of a potential complication of antiretroviral treatment regimens can be analyzed in stereologic dimensions.
Priapism as the Initial Manifestation of a Penile and Lower Limb Cutaneous Metastasis of Prostate Adenocarcinoma With Low Serum PSA Level
Authors: He Dalin , Zeng Jin , Li Xudong , Wu Kaijie , Wu Dapeng , He Hui , Song Wenbin , Li Lei
Published: November 2012

Abstract: Penile and/or cutaneous metastases from prostate adenocarcinoma rarely occur. Here, we detail the case of a 78‐year‐old man suffering from priapism caused by metastatic prostate cancer with both penile and lower limb cutaneous spread. His serum prostate‐specific antigen level was 0.09 μg/L when priapism developed. Corpora cavernosa biopsy was refused by the patient and radical penectomy was performed. Postoperative pathologic and immunohistochemical studies revealed undifferentiated prostate adenocarcinoma cells growing in corpora cavernosa. Two months later, the patient presented with multiple, erythematous nodules over the right lower leg. The prostate‐specific antigen level was found to be 0.264 μg/L. Biopsy of a skin nodule revealed neoplastic cells consistent with metastatic prostate adenocarcinoma. This is the first known case of metastatic prostate cancer found in both penis and skin with a low serum prostate‐specific antigen level. Priapism presented as the initial clinical manifestation of metastatic prostate cancer.
Aging and Declining Testosterone: Past, Present, and Hopes for the Future
Authors: Zirkin Barry R. , Tenover Joyce Lisa
Published: November 2012

Abstract: As men age, serum testosterone (T) levels decline, whereas serum luteinizing hormone (LH) levels increase somewhat or remain unchanged. Age‐related reductions in T levels may be associated with alterations in body composition; energy level; muscle strength; physical, sexual, and cognitive functions; and mood. The predominant contributor to the decline in serum T levels is the decreased ability of the aging testes to make T. As in humans, the Brown Norway rat demonstrates age‐related reductions in serum T levels in the setting of unchanged or modestly increased serum LH levels. In this rat model, the ability of aged Leydig cells, the terminally differentiated T‐producing cells of the testis, to produce T in response to LH stimulation is significantly diminished. This review begins with a discussion of what is known of the molecular mechanisms by which T synthesis declines with Leydig cell aging. It concludes with a brief history of T replacement therapy, current guidelines, controversies related to T replacement therapy in older men, and proposed future clinical directions.
Thermodynamic analysis of fluid flow in channels with wavy sinusoidal walls
Authors: Bahaidarah Haitham , Sahin Ahmet
Published: November 2012

Entropy generation in channels with non-uniform cross-section that can be
found in many fluid flow systems is an important concern from the
thermodynamic design point of view. In this regard, the entropy generation in
channels with periodic wavy sinusoidal walls has been considered in present
study. The flow is assumed to be two-dimensional steady laminar and the main
parameters considered are the Re number, height ratio Hmin/Hmax and module
length ratio L/a. The fluid enters the channel with uniform axial velocity
and temperature. The wall of the channel is assumed to be at uniform
temperature which is different that of the fluid at the inlet of the channel.
The distribution of the entropy generation as well as the total entropy
generation has been studied numerically. It is found that the Re number and
the geometric parameters, height ratio and module length ratio have
significant effect on both the local concentrations of entropy generation as
well as the total entropy generation in the channel. Flow separation and
re-circulation size, strength and location of flow are found to be major
concern in determining the local entropy generation.
Phase change material solidification in a finned cylindrical shell thermal energy storage: An approximate analytical approach
Authors: Mosaffa Amirhossein , Talati Faramarz , Rosen Marc , Basirat Tabrizi
Published: November 2012

Results are reported of an investigation of the solidification of a phase
change material (PCM) in a cylindrical shell thermal energy storage with
radial internal fins. An approximate analytical solution is presented for two
cases. In case 1, the inner wall is kept at a constant temperature and, in
case 2, a constant heat flux is imposed on the inner wall. In both cases, the
outer wall is insulated. The results are compared to those for a numerical
approach based on an enthalpy method. The results show that the analytical
model satisfactory estimates the solid-liquid interface. In addition, a
comparative study is reported of the solidified fraction of encapsulated PCM
for different geometric configurations of finned storage having the same
volume and surface area of heat transfer.
Fractal heat conduction problem solved by local fractional variation iteration method
Authors: Yang Xiao-Jun , Baleanu Dumitru
Published: November 2012

This paper points out a novel local fractional variational iteration method
for processing the local fractional heat conduction equation arising in
fractal heat transfer.
Cephalometric assessment of maxillary length in Serbian children with skeletal class III
Authors: Stojanovic Zdenka , Nikolic Predrag , Nikodijevic Angelina , Milic Jasmina , Stojanovic Branislav
Published: November 2012

Background/Aim. Malocclusion of skeletal class III is a complex irregularity
of sagittal inter-jaw relationship, which is due to irregularities of
sagittal position of one or both of the jaw bones, which is often associated
with disproportionate ratio of their length. The aim of this study was to
determine whether the length of the jaw of children with skeletal class III
in the period of mixed dentition was changed. Methods. Fifty children with
skeletal class III and the same number of those with skeletal class I, of
both sexes, have been selected on the basis of cephalometric analysis of
profile tele-x-ray of the head. All the children aged 6-12 had mixed
dentition, and were divided according to sex and age into three subgroups
within each group. The length of maxilla, mandible and cranial base were
measured. Proportions among the lengths measured within each group were found
and difference significance in the measured lengths and their proportions
among groups and subgroups were evaluated. Results. The children with
skeletal class III, compared with the findings in the control group, had
significantly lower values of maxillary length, total maxillary length, as
well as lower values of their lengths in proportion to lengths of the front
or the total length of cranial base and in proportion to mandibular lengths
(p < 0.05). Among the patients of different sexes, both in the test and the
control group, a significant difference in the values of the measured lengths
was found. Conclusion. The children with skeletal class III have
significantly shorter maxilla than those with skeletal class I.
Efficacy of amifostine in protection against doxorubicin-induced acute cardiotoxic effects in rats
Authors: Dragojevic-Simic Viktorija , Dobric Silva , Jacevic Vesna , Bokonjic Dubravko , Milosavljevic Ivica , Kovacevic Aleksandra , Mikic Dragan
Published: November 2012

Background/Aim. Amifostine (AMI) is a broad-spectrum cytoprotector which
protects against variety of radio- and chemotherapy-related toxicities
without decreasing their antitumor action. The aim of the study was to
investigate the potential protective effects of AMI against acute
cardiotoxic effects of doxorubicin (DOX) in male Wistar rats. Methods. AMI
(300 mg/kg ip) was given 30 min before DOX (6 mg/kg and 10mg/kg b.w., iv).
The evaluation of DOXinduced cardiotoxic effects, as well as
cardioprotective efficacy of AMI was performed 48 h after their
administration by determining serum activities of enzymes known to be
markers of cardiac damage (creatine kinase - CK, aspartate aminotransferase
- AST, lactate dehydrogenase - LDH, and its isoenzyme ?-hydroxybutirate
dehydrogenase - ?- HBDH), as well as the histopathological and
ultrastructural analysis of the heart tissue. Results. AMI successfully
prevented a significant increase in serum activity of CK, AST, LDH and
?-HBDH in animals treated with DOX in the dose of 6 mg/kg (121.14 ? 18.37 vs
167.70 ? 44.24; 771.42 ? 161.99 vs 1057.00 ? 300.00; 3230.00 ? 1031.73 vs
4243.10 ? 904.06; 202.57 ? 42.46 vs 294.90 ? 80.20 UI/l, respectively), and
ameliorated DOX-induced structural damage of the rat myocardium.
Pretreatment with AMI in rats given 10 mg/kg DOX reduced the cardiac damage
score (CDS) from 2.62 ? 0.51 to 1.62 ? 0.51, i.e. to the CDS value obtained
with the lower dose of DOX (6 mg/kg). The ultrastructural analysis of the
rat myocardium showed that AMI successfully protected the sarcolemma of
cardiomyocytes and reduced mitochondria damage induced by DOX given in the
dose of 6 mg/kg. Besides, capillaries were less morphologically changed and
apoptosis of endothelial cells was extremely rare in AMI-protected animals.
AMI itself did not cause any prominent changes in the examined parameters in
comparison with the control rats. Conclusion. AMI provided a significant
protection against DOX-induced acute cardiotoxic effects in rats. This
finding implies its potential to be a successful cardioprotector in patients
treated with DOX due to malignant diseases.
Yin Yang 1 Promotes Hepatic Gluconeogenesis Through Upregulation of Glucocorticoid Receptor
Authors: Lu Yan , Xiong Xuelian , Wang Xiaolin , Zhang Zhijian , Li Jin , Shi Guojun , Yang Jian , Zhang Huijie , Ning Guang , Li Xiaoying
Published: November 2012

Gluconeogenesis is critical in maintaining blood glucose levels in a normal range during fasting. In this study, we investigated the role of Yin Yang 1 (YY1), a key transcription factor involved in cell proliferation and differentiation, in the regulation of hepatic gluconeogenesis. Our data showed that hepatic YY1 expression levels were induced in mice during fasting conditions and in a state of insulin resistance. Overexpression of YY1 in livers augmented gluconeogenesis, raising fasting blood glucose levels in C57BL/6 mice, whereas liver-specific ablation of YY1 using adenoviral shRNA ameliorated hyperglycemia in wild-type and diabetic db/db mice. At the molecular level, we further demonstrated that the major mechanism of YY1 in the regulation of hepatic glucose production is to modulate the expression of glucocorticoid receptor. Therefore, our study uncovered for the first time that YY1 participates in the regulation of hepatic gluconeogenesis, which implies that YY1 might serve as a potential therapeutic target for hyperglycemia in diabetes.
PTPN22 Silencing in the NOD Model Indicates the Type 1 Diabetes–Associated Allele Is Not a Loss-of-Function Variant
Authors: Zheng Peilin , Kissler Stephan
Published: November 2012

PTPN22 encodes the lymphoid tyrosine phosphatase (LYP) and is the second strongest non-HLA genetic risk factor for type 1 diabetes. The PTPN22 susceptibility allele generates an LYP variant with an arginine-to-tryptophan substitution at position 620 (R620W) that has been reported by several studies to impart a gain of function. However, a recent report investigating both human cells and a knockin mouse model containing the R620W homolog suggested that this variation causes faster protein degradation. Whether LYP R620W is a gain- or loss-of-function variant, therefore, remains controversial. To address this issue, we generated transgenic NOD mice (nonobese diabetic) in which Ptpn22 can be inducibly silenced by RNA interference. We found that Ptpn22 silencing in the NOD model replicated many of the phenotypes observed in C57BL/6 Ptpn22 knockout mice, including an increase in regulatory T cells. Notably, loss of Ptpn22 led to phenotypic changes in B cells opposite to those reported for the human susceptibility allele. Furthermore, Ptpn22 knockdown did not increase the risk of autoimmune diabetes but, rather, conferred protection from disease. Overall, to our knowledge, this is the first functional study of Ptpn22 within a model of type 1 diabetes, and the data do not support a loss of function for the PTPN22 disease variant.
Caspase Induction and BCL2 Inhibition in Human Adipose Tissue
Authors: Tinahones Francisco José , Coín Aragüez Leticia , Murri Mora , Oliva Olivera Wilfredo , Mayas Torres María Dolores , Barbarroja Nuria , Gomez Huelgas Ricardo , Malagón Maria M. , El Bekay Rajaa
Published: November 2012

OBJECTIVE

Cell death determines the onset of obesity and associated insulin resistance. Here, we analyze the relationship among obesity, adipose tissue apoptosis, and insulin signaling.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

The expression levels of initiator (CASP8/9) and effector (CASP3/7) caspases as well as antiapoptotic B-cell lymphoma (BCL)2 and inflammatory markers were assessed in visceral (VAT) and subcutaneous (SAT) adipose tissue from patients with different degrees of obesity and without insulin resistance or diabetes. Adipose tissue explants from lean subjects were cultured with TNF-α or IL-6, and the expression of apoptotic and insulin signaling components was analyzed and compared with basal expression levels in morbidly obese subjects.

RESULTS

SAT and VAT exhibited increased CASP3/7 and CASP8/9 expression levels and decreased BCL2 expression with BMI increase. These changes were accompanied by increased inflammatory cytokine mRNA levels and macrophage infiltration markers. In obese subjects, CASP3/7 activation and BCL2 downregulation correlated with the IRS-1/2–expression levels. Expression levels of caspases, BCL2, p21, p53, IRS-1/2, GLUT4, protein tyrosine phosphatase 1B, and leukocyte antigen-related phosphatase in TNF-α– or IL-6–treated explants from lean subjects were comparable with those found in adipose tissue samples from morbidly obese subjects. These insulin component expression levels were reverted with CASP3/7 inhibition in these TNF-α– or IL-6–treated explants.

CONCLUSIONS

Body fat mass increase is associated with CASP3/7 and BCL2 expression in adipose tissue. Moreover, this proapoptotic state correlated with insulin signaling, suggesting its potential contribution to the development of insulin resistance.