bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Organization of the gymnotiform fish pallium in relation to learning and memory: I. Cytoarchitectonics and cellular morphology
Authors: Giassi Ana C.C. , Harvey‐Girard Erik , Valsamis Bridget , Maler Leonard
Published: March 2012

The present article examines the anatomical organization of the dorsal telencephalon of two gymnotiform fish: Gymnotus sp. and Apteronotus leptorhynchus. These electric fish use elaborate electrical displays for agonistic and sexual communication. Our study emphasizes mainly pallial divisions: dorsolateral (DL), dorsodorsal (DD), and dorsocentral (DC), previously implicated in social learning dependent on electric signals. We found that the pallial cytoarchitectonics of gymnotiformes are similar to those reported for the commonly studied goldfish, except that DC is larger and better differentiated in gymnotiformes. We identified a new telencephalic region (Dx), located between DL and DC, and describe the morphological and some biochemical properties of its neurons. Most neurons in DL, DD, and DC are glutamatergic with spiny dendrites. However, the size of these cells as well as the orientation and extent of their dendrites vary systematically across these regions. In addition, both DD and DL contained numerous small GABAergic interneurons as well as well‐developed GABAergic plexuses. One important and novel observation is that the dendrites of the spiny neurons within all three regions remain confined to their respective territories. We confirm that DL and DC express very high levels of NMDA receptor subunits as well as CaMKIIα, a key downstream effector of this receptor. In contrast, this enzyme is nearly absent in DD, while NMDA receptors are robustly expressed, suggesting different rules for synaptic plasticity across these regions. Remarkably, GABAergic pallial neurons do not express CaMKIIα, in agreement with previously reported results in the cortex of rats. J. Comp. Neurol. 520:3390–3413, 2012. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Characterization of cell proliferation throughout the brain of the African cichlid fish Astatotilapia burtoni and its regulation by social status
Authors: Maruska Karen P. , Carpenter Russ E. , Fernald Russell D.
Published: March 2012

New cells are added in the brains of all adult vertebrates, but fishes have some of the greatest potential for neurogenesis and gliogenesis among all taxa, partly due to their indeterminate growth. Little is known, however, about how social interactions influence cell proliferation in the brain of these fishes that comprise the largest group of vertebrates. We used 5‐bromo‐2′‐deoxyuridine (BrdU) to identify and localize proliferation zones in the telencephalon, diencephalon, mesencephalon, and rhombencephalon that were primarily associated with ventricular surfaces in the brain of the African cichlid fish Astatotilapia burtoni. Cell migration was evident in some regions by 1 day post injection, and many newborn cells coexpressed the neuronal marker HuC/D at 30 days, suggesting they had differentiated into neurons. To test the hypothesis that social status and perception of an opportunity to rise in rank influenced cell proliferation, we compared numbers of BrdU‐labeled cells in multiple brain nuclei among fish of different social status. Socially suppressed subordinate males had the lowest numbers of proliferating cells in all brain regions examined, but males that were given an opportunity to rise in status had higher cell proliferation rates within 1 day, suggesting rapid upregulation of brain mitotic activity associated with this social transition. Furthermore, socially isolated dominant males had similar numbers of BrdU‐labeled cells compared with dominant males that were housed in a socially rich environment, suggesting that isolation has little effect on proliferation and that reduced proliferation in subordinates is a result of the social subordination. These results suggest that A. burtoni will be a useful model to analyze the mechanisms of socially induced neurogenesis in vertebrates. J. Comp. Neurol. 520:3471–3491, 2012. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Cloning and expression of tachykinins and their association with kisspeptins in the brains of zebrafish
Authors: Ogawa Satoshi , Ramadasan Priveena Nair , Goschorska Maja , Anantharajah Aveena , We Ng Kai , Parhar Ishwar S.
Published: March 2012

The tachykinins are a family of neuropeptides, including substance P (SP), neurokinin A (NKA), and neurokinin B (NKB), that are encoded by the tac1 (SP and NKA) or tac2/3 (NKB) genes. Tachykinins are widely distributed in the central nervous system and have roles as neurotransmitters and/or neuromodulators. Recent studies in mammals have demonstrated the coexpression of NKB and kisspeptin and their comodulatory roles over the control of reproduction. We have recently identified two kisspeptin‐encoding genes, kiss1 and kiss2, in teleosts. However, such relationship between tachykinins and kisspeptins has not been demonstrated in non‐mammalian species. To determine the involvement of tachykinins in the reproduction in teleosts, we identified tac1 and two tac2 (tac2a and tac2b) sequences in the zebrafish genome using in silico data mining. Zebrafish tac1 encodes SP and NKA, whereas the tac2 sequences encode NKB and an additional peptide homologous to NKB (NKB‐related peptide). Digoxigenin in situ hybridization in the brain of zebrafish showed tac1 mRNA‐containing cells in the olfactory bulb, telencephalon, preoptic region, hypothalamus, mesencephalon, and rhombencephalon. The zebrafish tac2a mRNA‐containing cells were observed in the preoptic region, habenula, and hypothalamus, whereas the tac2b mRNA‐containing cells were predominantly observed in the dorsal telencephalic area. Furthermore, we examined the coexpression of tachykinins and two kisspeptin genes in the brain of zebrafish. Dual fluorescent in situ hybridization showed no coexpression of tachykinins mRNA with kisspeptins mRNA in hypothalamic nuclei or the habenula. These results suggest the presence of independent pathways for kisspeptins and NKB neurons in the brain of zebrafish. J. Comp. Neurol. 520:2991–3012, 2012. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Organization of the gymnotiform fish pallium in relation to learning and memory: II. Extrinsic connections
Authors: Giassi Ana C.C. , Duarte Terence T. , Ellis William , Maler Leonard
Published: March 2012

This study describes the extrinsic connections of the dorsal telencephalon (pallium) of gymnotiform fish. We show that the afferents to the dorsolateral and dorsomedial pallial subdivisions of gymnotiform fish arise from the preglomerular complex. The preglomerular complex receives input from four clearly distinct regions: 1) descending input from the pallium itself (dorsomedial and dorsocentral subdivisions and nucleus taenia); 2) other diencephalic nuclei (centroposterior, glomerular, and anterior tuberal nuclei and nucleus of the posterior tuberculum); 3) mesencephalic sensory structures (optic tectum, dorsal and ventral torus semicircularis); and 4) basal forebrain, preoptic area, and hypothalamic nuclei. Previous studies have implicated the majority of the diencephalic and mesencephalic nuclei in electrosensory, visual, and acousticolateral functions. Here we discuss the implications of preglomerular/pallial electrosensory‐associated afferents with respect to a major functional dichotomy of the electric sense. The results allow us to hypothesize that a functional distinction between electrocommunication vs. electrolocation is maintained within the input and output pathways of the gymnotiform pallium. Electrocommunication information is conveyed to the pallium through complex indirect pathways that originate in the nucleus electrosensorius, whereas electrolocation processing follows a conservative pathway inherent to all vertebrates, through the optic tectum. We hypothesize that cells responsive to communication signals do not converge onto the same targets in the preglomerular complex as cells responsive to moving objects. We also hypothesize that efferents from the dorsocentral (DC) telencephalon project to the dorsal torus semicircularis to regulate processing of electrocommunication signals, whereas DC efferents to the tectum modulate sensory control of movement. J. Comp. Neurol. 520:3338–3368, 2012. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Lack of Exercise Is a Major Cause of Chronic Diseases
Authors: Booth Frank W. , Roberts Christian K. , Laye Matthew J.
Published: March 2012

Chronic diseases are major killers in the modern era. Physical inactivity is a primary cause of most chronic diseases. The initial third of the article considers: activity and prevention definitions; historical evidence showing physical inactivity is detrimental to health and normal organ functional capacities; cause versus treatment; physical activity and inactivity mechanisms differ; gene‐environment interaction (including aerobic training adaptations, personalized medicine, and co‐twin physical activity); and specificity of adaptations to type of training. Next, physical activity/exercise is examined as primary prevention against 35 chronic conditions [accelerated biological aging/premature death, low cardiorespiratory fitness (Vo2max), sarcopenia, metabolic syndrome, obesity, insulin resistance, prediabetes, type 2 diabetes, nonalcoholic fatty liver disease, coronary heart disease, peripheral artery disease, hypertension, stroke, congestive heart failure, endothelial dysfunction, arterial dyslipidemia, hemostasis, deep vein thrombosis, cognitive dysfunction, depression and anxiety, osteoporosis, osteoarthritis, balance, bone fracture/falls, rheumatoid arthritis, colon cancer, breast cancer, endometrial cancer, gestational diabetes, pre‐eclampsia, polycystic ovary syndrome, erectile dysfunction, pain, diverticulitis, constipation, and gallbladder diseases]. The article ends with consideration of deterioration of risk factors in longer‐term sedentary groups; clinical consequences of inactive childhood/adolescence; and public policy. In summary, the body rapidly maladapts to insufficient physical activity, and if continued, results in substantial decreases in both total and quality years of life. Taken together, conclusive evidence exists that physical inactivity is one important cause of most chronic diseases. In addition, physical activity primarily prevents, or delays, chronic diseases, implying that chronic disease need not be an inevitable outcome during life. © 2012 American Physiological Society.Compr Physiol2:1143‐1211, 2012.
Lack of lipid phosphate phosphatase‐3 in embryonic stem cells compromises neuronal differentiation and neurite outgrowth
Authors: Sánchez‐Sánchez Roberto , Morales‐Lázaro Sara L. , Baizabal José‐Manuel , Sunkara Manjula , Morris Andrew J. , Escalante‐Alcalde Diana
Published: March 2012

Background: Bioactive lipids such as lysophosphatidic acid (LPA) and sphingosine‐1‐phosphate (S1P) have been recently described as important regulators of pluripotency and differentiation of embryonic stem (ES) cells and neural progenitors. Due to the early lethality of LPP3, an enzyme that regulates the levels and biological activities of the aforementioned lipids, it has been difficult to assess its participation in early neural differentiation and neuritogenesis. Results: We find that Ppap2b−/− (Lpp3−/−) ES cells differentiated in vitro into spinal neurons show a considerable reduction in the amount of neural precursors and young neurons formed. In addition, differentiated Lpp3−/− neurons exhibit impaired neurite outgrowth. Surprisingly, when Lpp3−/− ES cells were differentiated, an unexpected appearance of smooth muscle actin‐positive cells was observed, an event that was partially dependent upon phosphorylated sphingosines. Conclusions: Our data show that LPP3 plays a fundamental role during spinal neuron differentiation from ES and that it also participates in regulating neurite and axon outgrowth. Developmental Dynamics 241:953–964, 2012. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Genetic toxicology and toxicogenomic analysis of three cigarette smoke condensates in vitro reveals few differences among full‐flavor, blonde, and light products
Authors: Yauk Carole L. , Williams Andrew , Buick Julie K. , Chen Guosheng , Maertens Rebecca M. , Halappanavar Sabina , White Paul A.
Published: March 2012

Cigarette smoking leads to various detrimental health outcomes. Tobacco companies produce different brands of cigarettes that are marketed as reduced harm tobacco products. Early examples included “light” cigarettes, which differ from regular cigarettes due to filter ventilation and/or differences in chemical constituents. In order to establish baseline similarities and differences among different tobacco brands available in Canada, the present study examined the cytotoxicity, mutagenicity, clastogenicity, and gene expression profiles of cigarette smoke condensate (CSC) from three tobacco products, encompassing a full‐flavor, blonde, and “light” variety. Using the Salmonella mutagenicity assay, we confirmed that the three CSCs are mutagenic, and that the potency is related to the presence of aromatic amines. Using the Muta™Mouse FE1 cell line we determined that the CSCs were clastogenic and cytotoxic, but nonmutagenic, and the results showed few differences in potencies among the three brands. There were no clear brand‐specific changes in gene expression; each brand yielded highly similar expression profiles within a time point and concentration. The molecular pathways and biological functions affected by exposure included xenobiotic metabolism, oxidative stress, DNA damage response, cell cycle arrest and apoptosis, as well as inflammation. Thus, there was no appreciable difference in toxicity or gene expression profiles between regular brands and products marketed as “light,” and hence no evidence of reduced harm. The work establishes baseline CSC cytotoxicity, mutagenicity, and expression profiles that can be used as a point of reference for comparison with data generated for products marketed as reduced harm and/or modified risk tobacco products. Mol. Mutagen. 2012. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Stress–strain behaviour of fire exposed self‐compacting glass concrete
Authors: Ling Tung‐Chai , Poon Chi‐Sun
Published: March 2012

Concrete normally suffers from low stiffness and poor strain capacity after exposure to high temperatures. This study focused on evaluating the effect of recycled glass (RG) on the residual mechanical properties of self‐compacting glass concrete (SCGC) after exposure to elevated temperatures. RG was used to replace fine aggregate at ratios of 0%, 25%, 50%, 75% and 100% by weight. The residual properties were evaluated according to compressive strength, elastic modulus, stress–strain behaviour and strain at pre‐load and peak stress. A comparative assessment of different curing conditions on the SCGC was also conducted. The results showed that there were significant decreases in compressive strength, elastic modulus and concrete stiffness of the concrete with increasing temperature. The use of RG had little influence on the elastic modulus at ambient temperature; however, after exposure to 800°C, the mechanical properties of the concrete were greatly enhanced by incorporating RG. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Tumor angiogenesis: Role in locally aggressive biological behavior of ameloblastoma and keratocystic odontogenic tumor
Authors: Gadbail Amol Ramchandra , Mankar (Gadbail) Mugdha P. , Hande Alka , Chaudhary Minal S. , Gondivkar Shailesh M. , Korde Sheetal , Gawande Madhuri N. , Patil Swati , Tekade Satyjitraje , Sharma Aparna
Published: March 2012

Background

The purpose of this study was to assess and compare angiogenesis in ameloblastoma, keratocystic odontogenic tumors, dentigerous cysts, and normal oral mucosa.

Methods

Angiogenesis was assessed in 28 ameloblastoma–36 keratocystic odontogenic tumors, 28 dentigerous cysts, and 19 normal oral mucosa by measuring the mean vascular density (MVD), total vascular area (TVA) and mean vascular area (MVA). Immunohistochemistry was carried out by using CD105.

Results

The nonsignificant difference of MVD was noted between ameloblastoma and keratocystic odontogenic tumors (p = .174). TVA and MVA were significantly higher in ameloblastoma than keratocystic odontogenic tumors, normal oral mucosa, and dentigerous cysts (p < .001). MVD, TVA, and MVA were significantly higher in keratocystic odontogenic tumors than normal oral mucosa and dentigerous cysts (p < .001).

Conclusion

The results suggest that tumor angiogenesis may play an important role in locally invasive aggressive biologic behavior of ameloblastoma and keratocystic odontogenic tumor. The angiogenesis could be a potent target for developing antiangiogenic therapeutic strategies, particularly in recurrent cases of odontogenic tumors. Head Neck, 2013
Impaired intrahepatic natural killer cell cytotoxic function in chronic hepatitis C virus infection
Authors: Varchetta Stefania , Mele Dalila , Mantovani Stefania , Oliviero Barbara , Cremonesi Eleonora , Ludovisi Serena , Michelone Giuseppe , Alessiani Mario , Rosati Riccardo , Montorsi Marco , Mondelli Mario U.
Published: March 2012

Hepatitis C virus (HCV) persistence in the host results from inefficiencies of innate and adaptive immune responses. Most studies addressing the role of innate immunity concentrated on peripheral blood (PB) natural killer (NK) cells, whereas only limited information is available on intrahepatic (IH) NK cells. We therefore examined phenotypic and functional features of IH and PB NK cells in paired liver biopsy and venous blood samples from 70 patients with chronic HCV infection and 26 control persons subjected to cholecystectomy for gallstones as controls.

Ex vivo

isolated IH NK cells from HCV-infected patients displayed unique phenotypic features, including increased expression of NKp46-activating receptor in the face of reduced tumor necrosis factor–related apoptosis-inducing ligand (TRAIL) and cluster of differentiation (CD) 107a expression, which resulted in impaired degranulation compared with controls. To gain insights into the effect of HCV on NK cells, we exposed peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) from patients and healthy donors to cell-culture–derived HCV (HCVcc) and measured NK cell degranulation, TRAIL, and phosphorylated extracellular signal-regulated kinase 1/2 (pERK1/2) expression. Exposure of PBMCs to HCVcc significantly boosted NK degranulation, pERK1/2, and TRAIL expression in healthy donors, but not in patients with chronic HCV infection, a defect that was completely reversed by interferon-alpha. Purified NK cells showed a minimal, though significant, increase in degranulation and TRAIL expression, both in patients and controls, after exposure to HCVcc.

Conclusions
: These findings indicate dysfunctional IH NK cell cytotoxicity associated with TRAIL down-regulation in chronic HCV infection, which may contribute to virus persistence. PB NK cell impairment upon exposure to HCVcc suggests the existence of an accessory cell-dependent NK cell lytic defect in chronic HCV infection predominantly involving the TRAIL pathway.
Implications of Technological Changes in Vehicle Routing Interfaces for Planners' Constraint Processing
Authors: Cegarra Julien , Gacias Bernat , Lopez Pierre
Published: March 2012

This study sought to assess the consequences of technological changes in vehicle routing interfaces for planners' constraint processing during route selection. An experiment featuring vehicle routing problems was designed to test interfaces reflecting technological changes, including automation leading to simplified interfaces and the display of multiple routes computed by algorithms. Twelve participants who had worked for a small transport company for 9 months were exposed to all these interfaces. Mental workload, performance, and decision‐making times were measured. Results revealed that automation decreases mental workload and decision times, attributable to the abridged (vs. unabridged) display of constraints on the interface. Results also showed that the perceptual (vs. analytical) display of routes greatly decreases decision times and enhances performances. Results are finally discussed in terms of information reliance, automation accuracy, and graphical forms tailored to meet genuine support needs. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Glucose‐6‐phosphate dehydrogenase, NADPH, and cell survival
Authors: Stanton Robert C.
Published: March 2012

Glucose‐6‐phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD) is the rate‐limiting enzyme of the pentose phosphate pathway. Many scientists think that the roles and regulation of G6PD in physiology and pathophysiology have been well established as the enzyme was first identified 80 years ago. And that G6PD has been extensively studied especially with respect to G6PD deficiency and its association with hemolysis, and with respect to the role G6PD plays in lipid metabolism. But there has been a growing understanding of the central importance of G6PD to cellular physiology as it is a major source of NADPH that is required by many essential cellular systems including the antioxidant pathways, nitric oxide synthase, NADPH oxidase, cytochrome p450 system, and others. Indeed G6PD is essential for cell survival. It has also become evident that G6PD is highly regulated by many signals that affect transcription, post‐translation, intracellular location, and interactions with other protein. Pathophysiologic roles for G6PD have also been identified in such disease processes as diabetes, aldosterone‐induced endothelial dysfunction, cancer, and others. It is now clear that G6PD is under complex regulatory control and of central importance to many cellular processes. In this review the biochemistry, regulatory signals, physiologic roles, and pathophysiologic roles for G6PD that have been elucidated over the past 20 years are discussed. 2012 IUBMB IUBMB Life, 2012
Gender role affects experimental pain responses: A systematic review with meta‐analysis
Authors: Alabas O.A. , Tashani O.A. , Tabasam G. , Johnson M.I.
Published: March 2012

Gender role refers to the culturally and socially constructed meanings that describe how women and men should behave in certain situations according to feminine and masculine roles learned throughout life. The aim of this meta‐analysis was to evaluate the relationship between gender role and experimental pain responses in healthy human participants. We searched computerized databases for studies published between January 1950 and May 2011 that had measured gender role in healthy human adults and pain response to noxious stimuli. Studies were entered into a meta‐analysis if they calculated a correlation coefficient (r) for gender role and experimental pain. Searches yielded 4465 ‘hits’ and 13 studies were eligible for review. Sample sizes were 67–235 participants and the proportion of female participants was 45–67%. Eight types of gender role instrument were used. Meta‐analysis of six studies (406 men and 539 women) found a significant positive correlation between masculine and feminine personality traits and pain threshold and tolerance, with a small effect size (r = 0.17, p = 0.01). Meta‐analysis of four studies (263 men and 297 women) found a significant negative correlation between gender stereotypes specific to pain and pain threshold and tolerance, with a moderate effect size (r = −0.41, p < 0.001). In conclusion, individuals who considered themselves more masculine and less sensitive to pain than the typical man showed higher pain thresholds and tolerances. Gender stereotypes specific to pain scales showed stronger associations with sex differences in pain sensitivity response than masculine and feminine personality trait scales.
Biohydrogen production from glucose, molasses and cheese whey by suspended and attached cells of four hyperthermophilic Thermotoga strains
Authors: Cappelletti Martina , Bucchi Giacomo , De Sousa Mendes Jocelia , Alberini Andrea , Fedi Stefano , Bertin Lorenzo , Frascari Dario
Published: March 2012

BACKGROUND: Bio‐hydrogen production from organic residues is an attractive process that combines energy generation with waste treatment. This work describes hydrogen production from molasses and cheese whey by biofilm and suspended‐cells of four hyperthermophilic Thermotoga spp. For the best performing strain, a preliminary process optimization was performed.

RESULTS: In experiments with glucose‐fed T. neapolitana, HEPES was the best‐performing buffer, whereas the highest H2 rate was obtained with the biofilm support exposing the highest specific surface. All the Thermotoga strains tested (T. neapolitana, T. maritima, T. naphtophila, T. petrophila) were able to produce H2 from glucose, molasses and cheese whey under both suspended‐ and attached‐cell conditions. T. neapolitana was the best H2 producer with all three substrates. The best H2 production rate was higher on molasses (1.7 mmolH2 L$_{\rm {medium}}^{-1}$ h−1) than on cheese whey (0.94 mmolH2 L$_{\rm {medium}}^{-1}$ h−1), whereas the highest H2/substrate yields were similar for the two substrates (2.95 molH2 mol$_{\rm {monosaccharide consumed}}^{-1}$ on molasses and 2.50 molH2 mol$_{\rm {monosaccharide consumed}}^{-1}$ on cheese whey). With both wastes, the progressive growth medium simplification allowed a drastic reduction of medium cost, without significant losses of process performance.

CONCLUSION: Both molasses and cheese whey are suitable substrates for H2 production by suspended‐ and attached‐cells of Thermotoga species. Copyright © 2012 Society of Chemical Industry
Climatology and recent increase of westerly winds over the Amundsen Sea derived from six reanalyses
Authors: Bracegirdle Thomas J.
Published: March 2012

The observed acceleration of glaciers from West Antarctica into the Amundsen Sea is estimated to be contributing 6% to current sea‐level rise with the estimated potential to add 0.24 m to global sea level. Stronger westerly winds over the Amundsen Sea can increase the flow of relatively warm ocean water to the base of ice shelves that flow from glaciers into the Amundsen Sea. Thinning of the glaciers caused by this warming is a potentially important factor in driving the observed acceleration of glaciers. However, the climatology of winds in the region has not been extensively studied due to a lack of in situ observational long‐term records. Here six different reanalysis datasets are assessed (CFSR, ERA‐40, ERA‐Interim, JRA‐25, MERRA and NNR1) to determine a best estimate of variability and change since 1979 when the widespread monitoring of the atmosphere from satellites was introduced. A comparison with independent mean sea‐level pressure data from ice drifting buoys shows that ERA‐Interim is clearly the most accurate at capturing the details of individual weather systems over the neighbouring Bellingshausen Sea, implying that it is also accurate over the Amundsen Sea. In terms of climatological means, the five recently‐produced (after ∼2000) reanalysis datasets show only small differences. Decadal variations of westerly winds congruent with the observed increases in the southern annular mode (SAM) index are a consistent feature across the reanalysis datasets. In particular, the strong seasonal dependence of observed trends in the SAM (i.e. significant positive trends in the summer and autumn in recent decades) is also seen in the strength of westerly winds over the Amundsen Sea. In terms of year‐to‐year variability, the annual mean westerly winds over the Amundsen Sea were found to be significantly correlated with the SAM in summer (r = 0.35; p≤0.05) and El Nino‐Southern Oscillation in spring (September to November) (r = 0.41; p≤0.05). Copyright © 2012 Royal Meteorological Society
Local and intralesional therapy of in‐transit melanoma metastases
Authors: Testori Alessandro , Faries Mark B. , Thompson John F. , Pennacchioli E. , Deroose Jan P. , van Geel Albertus N. , Verhoef Cornelis , Verrecchia Francesco , Soteldo Javier
Published: March 2012

Regional relapse of melanoma may occur as satellite or in‐transit metastases proximal to the primary tumor in the direction of the lymph flow. The management of in‐transit metastases is challenging because the efficacy of treatment is largely dictated by the biological behavior of the patient's melanoma. This review examines local treatment modalities. J. Surg. Oncol. 2011; 104:391–396. © 2011 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
DEGRADATION OF SPRINGS IN THE ARAVA VALLEY: ANTHROPOGENIC AND CLIMATIC FACTORS
Authors: Bruins H. J. , Sherzer Z. , Ginat H. , Batarseh S.
Published: March 2012

Groundwater pumping in the hyper‐arid Arava Valley began in 1936 for industrial use, south of the Dead Sea, and since 1949 for domestic and agricultural use with the establishment of Eilat. Pumping gradually increased with the founding of 19 rural villages throughout the Arava Valley. Groundwater levels dropped as a result, and springs in the Arava Valley began to deteriorate. Their status had not been studied for decades, and we conducted comprehensive fieldwork of virtually all the known springs on the Israeli side of the Arava Valley, 31 springs, within the period 2008–2010. Our objectives were (i) to determine the current condition of each spring, (ii) to study spring deterioration through time in relation to historical data and (iii) to evaluate anthropogenic and climatic factors through time. Our results reveal that only 13 springs discharged water on the landscape surface and 18 springs were found dry. Detailed evaluations and time‐series analyses are presented for the springs: 'Ein Tamar, 'Ein Mashak, 'Ein Evrona and 'Ein Netafim, selected on the basis of geodiversity. Climatic trends in the region were studied using the novel P/PET aridity index (P = annual precipitation, PET = annual potential evapotranspiration). We calculated yearly P/PET values since 1970 for five meteorological stations in Israel and six stations in Jordan. All stations, without exception, show a negative downward trend toward increasing aridity, often with significant p values (below 0·10). The change to a drier climate in the region should be considered as an important factor regarding sustainable groundwater management in the Arava Valley. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Passivation techniques for InAs/GaSb strained layer superlattice detectors
Authors: Plis Elena A. , Kutty Maya Narayanan , Krishna Sanjay
Published: March 2012

InAs/(In,Ga)Sb Strained Layer Superlattices (SLSs) have made significant progress since they were first proposed as an infrared (IR) sensing material more than three decades ago. The basic material properties of SLS provide a prospective benefit in the realization of IR imagers with suppressed interband tunneling and Auger recombination processes, as well as high quantum efficiency and responsivity. With scaling of single pixel dimensions, the performance of focal plane arrays is strongly dependent on surface effects due to the large pixels’ surface/volume ratio. This article discusses the cause of surface leakage currents and various approaches of their reduction including dielectric passivation, passivation with organic materials (polyimide or various photoresists), passivation by overgrowth of wider bandgap material, and chalcogenide passivation. Performance of SLS detectors passivated by different techniques and operating in various regions of infrared spectrum has been compared.
Characterisation of the steel concrete interface submitted to chloride‐induced‐corrosion
Authors: L'Hostis V. , Amblard E. , Guillot W. , Paris C. , Bellot‐Gurlet L.
Published: March 2012

This paper deals with the characterisation by means of electrochemical, gravimetric and analytical methods of chloride‐induced‐corrosion behaviour of steel coupons embedded in chloride‐containing‐cement pastes. Corrosion rates were estimated from electrochemical measurements as well as gravimetric ones. They vary from 2.6 to 5.7 µm/year for 5 and 10 g/L chloride‐containing‐cement pastes. Analytical characterisations (including optical and electronical microscopy and Raman micro‐spectroscopy) showed that corrosion patterns are not depending on the chloride content of the cement paste (5 and 10 g/L chloride in the interstitial solution). A localised corrosion pattern composed of pits growing inside the metallic substratum, a corrosion products layer (CPL) and a transformed medium (TM) was pointed out. CPL can be divided into two sub‐layers (CPL1 and CPL2), characterised by the presence or absence of calcium coming from the cement matrix.
11.81 mW 3.1–10.6 GHz ultra‐wideband low‐noise amplifier with 2.87 ± 0.19 dB noise figure and 12.52 ± 0.81 dB gain using 0.18 μm CMOS technology
Authors: Wu Chia‐Hsing , Lin Yo‐Sheng , Wang Chien‐Chin
Published: March 2012

A 3.1–10.6 GHz ultra‐wideband low‐noise amplifier (UWB LNA) with excellent phase linearity property (group‐delay variation is only ±15.79 ps across the whole band) using standard 0.18 μm CMOS technology is reported.Both high and flat power gain (S21) and low and flat noise figure (NF) frequency responses are achieved by tuning the pole frequencies and pole quality factors of the second‐order gain and NF frequency responses to approximate the maximally flat condition simultaneously. The LNA dissipates 11.81 mW power and achieves input return loss (S11) smaller than −10.25 dB, high and flat S21 of 12.52 ± 0.81 dB, and low and flat NF of 2.87 ± 0.19 dB over the 3.1–10.6 GHz band. To the author's knowledge, this is one of the lowest NFs ever reported for a 3.1–10.6 GHz CMOS UWB LNA. The measured 1‐dB compression point and input third‐order intermodulation point are −16 and −6.2 dBm, respectively, at 6 GHz. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Microwave Opt Technol Lett 54:1445–1450, 2012; View this article online at wileyonlinelibrary.com. DOI 10.1002/mop.26813
Signal filtering technique to remove Doppler clutter caused by wind turbines
Authors: Naqvi Aale , Ling Hao
Published: March 2012

We construct a physics‐based basis to model the radar backscattering from a wind turbine. This basis is used in conjunction with the matching pursuit algorithm to iteratively remove the Doppler clutter due to wind turbines. The algorithm is tested using radar return generated using the high‐frequency electromagnetic simulation code Ahilo. It is shown that the presence of multiple turbines overwhelms the return from a weak moving target. However, the target is revealed once the filtering algorithm is applied. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Microwave Opt Technol Lett 54:1455–1460, 2012; View this article online at wileyonlinelibrary.com. DOI 10.1002/mop.26819
Triple‐feed circularly polarized triangular slot antenna using metamaterial transmission lines
Authors: Chung Kwok L. , Wong Chi‐Ho , Cheung Pak‐Laam , Chan Ka‐Ho
Published: March 2012

This article presents a metamaterial transmission‐line‐based triple‐feed network, which is meant for wideband circularly polarized antennas. The feed network itself is capable of an octave bandwidth, from 1.6 to 3.2 GHz, for an amplitude error of ±0.5 dB and phase error of ±10°. Prototype of a triangular slot antenna was implemented to validate the proposed triple‐feed network. The measurement results show that the entire antenna has an impedance bandwidth (standing‐wave‐ratio ≤ 2) of 73.4%, whereas the 3‐dB axial‐ratio bandwidth is obtained at 27%. Bidirectional beam patterns with opposed polarization senses have been observed. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Microwave Opt Technol Lett 54:1419–1423, 2012; View this article online at wileyonlinelibrary.com. DOI 10.1002/mop.26821
Two‐level preconditioning technique based on sparse recursive Cholesky factorization for fast monostatic RCS computation
Authors: Zhang Ke‐Di , Xu Jin‐Ping , Wang Wen‐Bo
Published: March 2012

An efficient two‐level preconditioning technique based on sparse recursive Cholesky factorization (SRCF) is proposed to solve linear equations in monostatic radar cross section computation.The SRCF preconditioner is used as the first level preconditioning, and a spectral preconditioner, constructed from the eigenvectors of the SRCF preconditioned system, is adopted as the second level preconditioning. The resultant linear systems are solved by restarted generalized minimal residual method. Multilevel fast multipole algorithm is implemented to accelerate computation and reduce memory requirement. Numerical results demonstrate the proposed method is efficient in reducing the number of matrix‐vector product, and speed‐up factors of 4.26 and 5.89 are observed for electromagnetic scattering by a perfect electric conductor almond and a civil aircraft model, respectively. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Microwave Opt Technol Lett 54:1483–1488, 2012; View this article online at wileyonlinelibrary.com. DOI 10.1002/mop.26823
Dual‐band bandpass filter with controllable bandwidth and good selectivity by using stub‐loaded resonators
Authors: Wu Xiao‐Hu , Chu Qing‐Xin , Chen Fu‐Chang
Published: March 2012

A microstrip dual‐band bandpass filter (BPF) with controllable bandwidth and good selectivity is proposed.The two bands are realized by using stub‐loaded resonators, that is, open‐stub loaded resonator (OSLR) and short‐stub loaded resonator (SSLR). The first band is realized by the combination of the even‐mode of SSLR and the odd‐mode of OSLR, while the second band is realized by the combination of the odd‐mode of SSLR and the even‐mode of OSLR, thus, the coupling of each band could be controlled by independently adjusting the mode frequencies of resonators, and transmission zeros are introduced due to the multipath effect beside each passband. A 2.4/3.5 GHz dual‐band filter with good selectivity and good stopband performance is designed and fabricated. The measured results agree well with the simulated predictions. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Microwave Opt Technol Lett 54:1525–1528, 2012; View this article online at wileyonlinelibrary.com. DOI 10.1002/mop.26830
Low‐power 24 GHz CMOS receiver front‐end using isolation enhancement technique for automatic radar systems
Authors: Chen Yong‐Chin , Hsuan Wang Chiu , Lin Yo‐Sheng
Published: March 2012

This article describes a monolithic receiver front‐end comprising a low‐noise amplifier, a dual‐gate mixer, and an intermediate‐frequency (IF) amplifier implemented in a standard 0.18 μm CMOS technology. Over the frequency band of interest, flat and high conversion‐gain (CG) and flat and low noise‐figure (NF) are achieved simultaneously by adopting slightly under‐damped Q‐factors for the second‐order CG and NF frequency responses. To suppress the high‐frequency noise and to enhance the RF–IF and LO–IF isolation, RC low‐pass filters (i.e., IF filters) are added at output of the dual‐gate mixer and the cascode IF amplifier. The receiver front‐end dissipates 16.4 mW and exhibits an NF of 6.86 dB and a CG of 22.26 dB at 24 GHz. In addition, excellent isolation is also achieved. The measured LO–IF, RF–IF, and LO–RF isolation is −31.31, −49.36, and −58.93 dB, respectively, at 24 GHz. The chip area is only 1.21 × 0.7 mm2, that is, 0.847 mm2, excluding the test pads. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Microwave Opt Technol Lett 54:1471–1476, 2012; View this article online at wileyonlinelibrary.com. DOI 10.1002/mop.26835
Evidence‐based guideline: Neuromuscular ultrasound for the diagnosis of carpal tunnel syndrome
Authors: Cartwright Michael S. , Hobson‐Webb Lisa D. , Boon Andrea J. , Alter Katharine E. , Hunt Christopher H. , Flores Victor H. , Werner Robert A. , Shook Steven J. , Thomas T. Darrell , Primack Scott J. , Walker Francis O.
Published: March 2012

Introduction: The purpose of this study was to develop an evidence‐based guideline for the use of neuromuscular ultrasound in the diagnosis of carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS). Methods: Two questions were asked: (1) What is the accuracy of median nerve cross‐sectional area enlargement as measured with ultrasound for the diagnosis of CTS? (2) What added value, if any, does neuromuscular ultrasound provide over electrodiagnostic studies alone for the diagnosis of CTS? A systematic review was performed, and studies were classified according to American Academy of Neurology criteria for rating articles of diagnostic accuracy (question 1) and for screening articles (question 2). Results: Neuromuscular ultrasound measurement of median nerve cross‐sectional area at the wrist is accurate and may be offered as a diagnostic test for CTS (Level A). Neuromuscular ultrasound probably adds value to electrodiagnostic studies when diagnosing CTS and should be considered in screening for structural abnormalities at the wrist in those with CTS (Level B). Muscle Nerve 46: 287–293, 2012
Epidemiology of rhabdoid tumors of early childhood
Authors: Heck Julia E. , Lombardi Christina A. , Cockburn Myles , Meyers Travis J. , Wilhelm Michelle , Ritz Beate
Published: March 2012

Background

Rhabdoid tumors are a rare and aggressive cancer subtype which is usually diagnosed in early childhood. Little is known about their etiology. The purpose of this study was to describe the epidemiology of rhabdoid tumors and examine their relation to perinatal characteristics.

Methods

We identified 44 atypical teratoid/rhabdoid tumors (AT/RT) of the central nervous system (CNS) and 61 rhabdoid sarcomas (renal and extra‐renal non‐CNS tumors) from California Cancer Registry records of diagnoses 1988–2007 among children <6 years of age. We randomly selected 208,178 controls from California birthrolls. Multivariable logistic regression was used to examine associations between rhabdoid tumors and perinatal characteristics.

Results

After adjustment for demographic characteristics, low birthweight (<2,500 g) strongly increased risk for developing both rhabdoid sarcomas (OR = 2.43, 95% CI 1.09, 5.41) and AT/RT (OR = 2.99, 95% CI 1.31, 6.84). Both preterm delivery (<37 weeks gestation, OR = 2.63, 95% CI 1.34, 5.17) and late term delivery (>42 weeks, OR = 3.66, 95% CI 1.54, 8.71) also increased risk of rhabdoid sarcomas. Rhabdoid sarcoma cases (OR = 3.08, 95% CI 1.11, 8.55) and AT/RT cases (OR = 3.16, 95% CI 1.23, 8.13) also were more likely to be multiple births.

Conclusion

The excess of twin pregnancies may suggest an association with infertility treatments. This is the first population‐based epidemiologic study to examine these rare tumors. Pediatr Blood Cancer 2013; 60: 77–81. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Prospectively examining physical activity in young adult survivors of childhood cancer and healthy controls
Authors: Hocking Matthew C. , Schwartz Lisa A. , Hobbie Wendy L. , DeRosa Branlyn Werba , Ittenbach Richard F. , Mao Jun J. , Ginsberg Jill P. , Kazak Anne E.
Published: March 2012

Background

This study compares young adult survivors of childhood cancer (YASCC) and young adults without a history of serious illness/injury on physical activity levels and examines psychological predictors of physical activity in survivors over a 2‐month period.

Procedure

YASCC participants (n = 117) and healthy controls (n = 148), ages 18–30, recruited during cancer survivorship clinic or primary care clinics completed self‐report measures of physical activity, health problems, psychological distress, and health beliefs (Health Perceptions, Satisfaction with Healthcare, Cognitive Competence, and Autonomy). Survivorship providers completed ratings of health problems and treatment intensity for survivors.

Results

Survivors had significantly lower levels of physical activity than controls. Family income, survivor‐reported health problems and less positive health beliefs were associated with lower rates of physical activity. Provider‐reported survivor health problems and ratings of cancer treatment intensity were not related to survivor physical activity. Less positive survivor beliefs about their cognitive competence predicted survivor physical activity 2 months later after accounting for other pertinent demographic, medical and psychological variables.

Conclusions

YASCC were significantly less active than healthy controls. YASCC with more self‐identified health problems and negative beliefs about their cognitive competence were less physically active. Beliefs about their health and cognitive competencies may be viable areas for assessment and intervention in order to promote increased engagement in physical activity. Pediatr Blood Cancer 2013;60:309–315. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Electrical properties and electromagnetic interference shielding effectiveness of multiwalled carbon nanotubes‐reinforced EMA nanocomposites
Authors: Basuli Utpal , Chattopadhyay Santanu , Nah Changwoon , Chaki Tapan Kumar
Published: March 2012

Electrical and electromagnetic interference shielding effectiveness (EMI SE) properties of the ethylene methyl acrylate (EMA)/multiwalled carbon nanotube (MWNT) nanocomposites have been studied. High resolution transmission electron microscope (HRTEM) was used to validate the MWNTs dispersion state and network connections of its microstructure. The electrical resistance of the nanocomposites decreases significantly with MWNTs content. DC resistivity and AC conductivity measurement on the nanocomposite samples showed that the insulator to conductor transition took place within 10 wt% MWNTs concentration. It has been found that as MWNT concentration increased network connections improved. The EMI SE of the nanocomposites has also been investigated. The highest SE (∼20 dB) of these nanocomposites is realistic for an industrial application. EMA/MWNT nanocomposites provide sufficient intrinsic EMI shielding capability which may be hopeful for electrical and electronic applications. The morphology correlates well with the electrical and electromagnetic behavior of these nanocomposites. POLYM. COMPOS., 2012. © 2012 Society of Plastics Engineers
The distribution and morphological evolution of dispersed phase in laminating‐multiplying elements during extrusion
Authors: Shen Jiabin , Li Jiang , Guo Shaoyun
Published: March 2012

Three kinds of polymeric blends: nylon 6/isotactic polypropylene, talc/ethylene 1‐octene copolymer, and carbon black (CB)/propylene–ethylene copolymer are prepared by applying an assembly of laminating‐multiplying elements (LMEs) connecting with an extruder. The morphological observations illustrate that those LMEs may not only provide biaxial stretching force on the melt, leading to the orientation of dispersed phase, but also make the distribution of those particles become more even. The tensile, barrier, or electrical properties are also investigated, respectively, and demonstrate the development of morphologies in LMEs. Results suggest that the laminating‐multiplying extrusion system is a useful tool to obtain polymeric composites with specific morphologies and distribution. POLYM. COMPOS., 2012. © 2012 Society of Plastics Engineers
Perinatal course of Ebstein's anomaly and tricuspid valve dysplasia in the fetus
Authors: Lasa Javier J. , Tian Zhi‐Yun , Guo Rong , Rychik Jack
Published: March 2012

Objective

We sought to better define echocardiographic predictors of perinatal mortality in fetuses with Ebstein's anomaly (EA) or tricuspid valve dysplasia (TVD).

Method

Parameters included measured chamber size, the presence of hydrops, and Doppler recordings of the left ventricular (LV) myocardial performance index (MPI).

Results

Between 1 January 2000 and 31 December 2008, 21 fetuses were diagnosed with either EA (17) or TVD (4). Five fetuses were lost to follow‐up, and 12 of 16 fetuses were born live (75%). Survivors were found to have smaller right atrial area index scores when compared with non‐survivors (1.025 ± 0312 vs 1.502 ± 0.105, respectively, p = 0.013) and were less likely to present with hydrops (0% survivors vs 75% of non‐survivors, p < 0.01). LV MPI sub‐analysis revealed a shorter combined isovolemic contraction and relaxation time for non‐survivors compared wth survivors (46.5 ± 8.2 ms vs 82.3 ± 21.2 ms, respectively, p = 0.004) although no difference was observed for LV ejection times or overall LV MPI between survivors and non‐survivors.

Conclusion

Physiologic analysis of left ventricular function via the LV Tei index and its component measurements demonstrates potentially novel insights into hemodynamic derangements and their association with outcomes in patients with EA/TVD. © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.