bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
BASE RATE NEGLECT FOR THE WEALTH OF INTERACTING PEOPLE
Authors: URBIG DIEMO
Published: October 2010

Previous research investigating base rate neglect as a bias in human information processing has focused on isolated individuals. This study complements this research by showing that in settings of interacting individuals, especially in settings of social learning, where individuals can learn from one another, base rate neglect can increase a population's welfare. This study further supports the research arguing that a population with members biased by neglecting base rates does not need to perform worse than a population with unbiased members. Adapting the model of social learning suggested by Bikhchandani, Hirshleifer and Welch (The Journal of Political Economy100 (1992) 992–1026) and including base rates that differ from generic cases such as 50–50, conditions are identified that make underweighting base rate information increasing the population's welfare. The base rate neglect can start a social learning process that otherwise had not been started and thus base rate neglect can generate positive externalities improving a population's welfare.
THE IMPORTANCE OF DISAGREEING: CONTRARIANS AND EXTREMISM IN THE CODA MODEL
Authors: MARTINS ANDRÉ C. R. , KUBA CLEBER D.
Published: October 2010

In this paper, we study the effects of introducing contrarians in a model of Opinion Dynamics where the agents have internal continuous opinions, but exchange information only about a binary choice that is a function of their continuous opinion, the CODA model. We observe that the hung election scenario that arises when contrarians are introduced in discrete opinion models still happens. However, it is weaker and it should not be expected in every election. Finally, we also show that the introduction of contrarians make the tendency towards extremism of the original model weaker, indicating that the existence of agents that prefer to disagree might be an important aspect and help society to diminish extremist opinions.
THE JERUSALEM GAME: CULTURAL EVOLUTION OF THE GOLDEN RULE
Authors: WILKINS JON F. , THURNER STEFAN
Published: October 2010

It has often been noted that most of the major world religions espouse a version of the "golden rule." In this paper we consider the cultural evolution of such a doctrine, where the responsibility to act altruistically towards others applies universally, not just to other members of the same society. Using a game-theoretical model, we find that societies over a critical size benefit from adopting a mode of universal altruism. These "golden-rule societies" must justify violence against outsiders by formulating exceptions to this universal rule. For smaller groups, it is more efficient to adopt a rule that simply requires cooperation within the group. Data from the ethnographic record supports a correlation between group size and societal norms of universal cooperation. Our results provide an explanation for the prevalence of the golden rule among contemporary cultures. We find that universal altruism arises due to cultural selection for greater ingroup bias, and is a natural byproduct of the emergence of large-scale societies.
FINITE-RANGE CONTACT PROCESS ON THE MARKET RETURN INTERVALS DISTRIBUTIONS
Authors: ZHANG JUNHUAN , WANG JUN , SHAO JIGUANG
Published: October 2010

Stochastic system is applied to describe and investigate the fluctuations of stock price changes in a stock market, and a stock price model is developed by the finite-range contact process of the statistical physics systems. In this paper, the scaling behaviors of the return intervals for SSE Composite Index (SSE) and the simulation data of the model are investigated and compared. The database is from the index of SSE in the 6-year period for every 5 minutes, and the simulation data is from the finite-range contact model for different values of the range R. For different values of threshold θ, the statistical analysis shows that the probability density function Pθ(τ) of the return intervals τ for both SSE and the simulation data have similar scaling form, that is [Formula: see text] ([Formula: see text] is the mean return interval), where the scaling function h(x) can be approximately fitted by the function h(x) = ωe-a(ln x)γ, and ω, a, γ are three parameters. Further, with different values of R and θ, the statistical comparison of SSE Composite Index and simulation data are given.
MATHEMATICAL STRUCTURE OF QUANTUM DECISION THEORY
Authors: YUKALOV VYACHESLAV I. , SORNETTE DIDIER
Published: October 2010

One of the most complex systems is the human brain whose formalized functioning is characterized by decision theory. We present a "Quantum Decision Theory" of decision-making, based on the mathematical theory of separable Hilbert spaces. This mathematical structure captures the effect of superposition of composite prospects, including many incorporated intentions, which allows us to explain a variety of interesting fallacies and anomalies that have been reported to particularize the decision-making of real human beings. The theory describes entangled decision-making, non-commutativity of subsequent decisions, and intention interference of composite prospects. We demonstrate how the violation of the Savage's sure-thing principle (disjunction effect) can be explained as a result of the interference of intentions, when making decisions under uncertainty. The conjunction fallacy is also explained by the presence of the interference terms. We demonstrate that all known anomalies and paradoxes, documented in the context of classical decision theory, are reducible to just a few mathematical archetypes, all of which allow the finding of straightforward explanations in the frame of the developed quantum approach.
Studies on LiFePO4 as Cathode Material in Li-Ion Batteries
Authors: Illig Jo¨rg , Chrobak Thorsten , Ender Moses , Schmidt Jan Philipp , Klotz Dino , Ivers-Tiffée Ellen
Published: October 2010

Lithium iron phosphate is a promising cathode material for the use in lithium-ion batteries meeting the demands of good stability during cycling and safe operation due to reduced risk of thermal runaway. However, slow solid state diffusion and poor electrical conductivity reduce power capability. For further improvement, the identification of the rate determining processes is necessary. Electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) has proven to be a powerful tool for the characterization of electrochemical systems. In this contribution a deconvolution of the impedance with the distribution of relaxation times (DRT) is used to obtain a better resolution in frequency domain. Therewith, the cathodic and anodic polarization processes are identified and an impedance model for the cell is proposed.
Enhancement of Electrochemical Capacitance by Doping Rod-Like Mn Oxide Electrodes with Co
Authors: Babakhani Banafsheh , Ivey Douglas
Published: October 2010

The electrochemical properties of nanocrystalline Mn oxide and Mn-Co doped oxide electrodes, with and without a conducting polymer (PEDOT) coating, were investigated to determine the effect of morphology, chemistry and crystal structure on the corresponding electrochemical behavior of synthesized electrodes. Mn-Co oxide electrodes with rod-like structures were synthesized electrochemically by anodic deposition from an electrolyte solution of Mn acetate and Co sulfate on Au coated Si substrates. The electrochemical behavior of the deposits was studied by cyclic voltammetry at different scan rates. Also, microstructural characterization of as-deposited and cycled electrodes was conducted using SEM. The Mn-Co oxide/PEDOT electrodes showed improved specific capacity and electrochemical cyclability relative to uncoated Mn oxide, Mn-Co oxide and Mn oxide/PEDOT electrodes. A specific capacitance of ~310 Fg−1, with a capacitance retention of 92% of the original value, was obtained for Mn-Co/PEDOT electrodes after 250 cycles in 0.5M Na2SO4 at 100 mVs−1.
Size Effects in Ni/Ni(OH)2 Nanomaterials for Electrochemical Capacitors
Authors: Limmer Steven J. , Yelton W. Graham , Bunker Bruce C.
Published: October 2010

Electrochemical capacitors based on redox-active metal oxides show great promise for many energy-storage applications. These materials store charge through both electric double-layer charging and faradaic reactions in the oxide. The dimensions of the oxide nanomaterials have a strong influence on the performance of such capacitors. Not just due to surface area effects, which influence the double-layer capacitance, but also through bulk electrical and ionic conductivities. Ni(OH)2 is a prime candidate for such applications, due to low cost and high theoretical capacity. We have examined the relationship between diameter and capacity for Ni/Ni(OH)2 nanorods. Specific capacitances of up to 511 F/g of Ni were recorded in 47 nm diameter Ni(OH)2 nanorods.
AC Conductivity and Mobile Transport Pathways in 0.45Li2O-(0.55-x)P2O5-xB2O3 Glasses
Authors: Tho Thieu D. , Rao Rayavarapu P. , Adams Stefan
Published: October 2010

Lithium borophosphate glasses 0.45Li2O-(0.55-x)P2O5-xB2O3 (0 {less than or equal to} x {less than or equal to} 0.40) were investigated focusing on the influence of cation mobility changes due to mixed glass former effect. Glass transition temperature (Tg) increases and molar volume decreases with B2O3 addition. Deconvolution of XPS spectra revealed that P-O-B bonds increase and non-bridging oxygens decrease with the B2O3 content. Analyses of impedance data in the conductivity formalism as a function of temperature and frequency lead to a common super master curve for ac conductivity scaling at all temperatures and all compositions indicating the relaxation mechanism is a temperature independent universal process. Molecular dynamics (MD) simulations for the same systems have been performed with an optimized potential, fitted to match bond lengths, coordination numbers and ionic conductivity (σdc). Structural effects on ion transport as the origin of the mixed glass former effect can be quantified by applying Bond valence (BV) approach to the equilibrated MD trajectories.
State of Water in Perfluorosulfonic Ionomer (Nafion) Proton Exchange Membranes
Authors: Lu Zijie , Polizos Georgios , Manias Evangelos , Macdonald Digby
Published: October 2010

This manuscript reports on the direct identification of four states of water in hydrated Nafion ionomer polymers, including a quantitative measurement of their dynamics, as previously published in the Journal of the Electrochemical Society, 155, B163-B171 (2008). Here, we provide further details on the dynamics of these water states and we underline still-open scientific questions, towards stimulating further fundamental research in the field.
CH3OH Oxidation Activities of an Unsupported PtxRuy Powder Catalyst before and after Different Electrochemical Treatments
Authors: Kothandaraman Ramanujam , Bock C. , MacDougall Barry
Published: October 2010

An unsupported Pt75Ru25 powder was synthesized by co-reducing the corresponding precursor salts rapidly. An alloy powder of Pt75Ru25 composition was formed in this manner. The catalyst powders were subjected to various electrochemical treatments in either 0.5 M H2SO4 or 0.5 M CH3OH + 0.5 M H2SO4 solutions. Applying specific electrochemical treatments in respect to time (e.g., the potential cycling number) relative to the E+ value result in either a decrease or increase in the CH3OH oxidation activity of this catalyst. The differently treated catalyst powders were further studied using EDX, XPS and CO adsorbed (COads) stripping voltamograms and transients. The results suggest that removal of surface Ru-oxides result in an increase in CH3OH electro-oxidation activity, while extensive loss of Ru from the catalyst surface results in a decrease in CH3OH oxidation activity. Refluxing this as-prepared catalyst powder in an excess of boiling 0.5 M H2SO4 did neither result in the removal of the surface Ru-oxides nor improve the CH3OH oxidation activity.
Interfacial Properties of Fullerene Coated Silicon Film as an Anode Material for Lithium Secondary Batteries: Effect of Coating Layer Thickness
Authors: Arie Arenst Andreas , Lee Joong Kee
Published: October 2010

Silicon thin films with thickness of about 300 nm were coated by fullerene thin film with different thickness (50-200 nm) using plasma assisted thermal evaporation technique. The fullerene coated silicon films were then characterized as anode materials of lithium secondary batteries. The interfacial properties of the electrodes coated with fullerene film of different thicknesses have been studied using impedance spectroscopy and compared with those of uncoated silicon electrodes. An enhancement of the performances of the coated electrodes in terms of reduced solid electrolyte interface (SEI) and charge transfer resistances has been found. As the thickness of fullerene is increased, the coated electrodes demonstrated a smaller initial irreversible capacity and a more reduced charge transfer resistance. However, there was a thickness limit that gave a larger interfacial resistance than that of bare silicon film anodes.
In Situ Growth of SnO2 on Graphene Nanosheets as Advanced Anode Materials for Rechargeable Lithium Batteries
Authors: Yang Xiaowei , He Yu-Shi , Liao Xiao-Zhen , Chen Jun , Wallace Gordon , Ma Zi-Feng
Published: October 2010

Graphene with a single layer of carbon atoms densely packed in a honeycomb crystal lattice is one of attractive materials for the intercalation of lithium ion, but it has low volumetric capacity owing to low tap density. We report a method for in situ growth of SnO2 on graphene nanosheets (SGN) as anode materials for rechargeable lithium batteries. The results indicated that the SnO2 nanoparticles with size in the range of 5-10 nm and a polycrystalline structure are homogeneously supported on graphene nanosheets. The charge and discharge capacities of SGN attained to 1559.7 and 779.7 mAh/g in the first cycle at a current density of 300 mA/g. The specific discharge capacities remained at 620 mAh·g-1 in the 200th cycle. The SGN exhibits a superior Li-storage performance with good cycle life and high capacity.
Electrode Development in a Novel Self-Assembled Lithium Iodide Battery
Authors: Yourey William M. , Weinstein Lawrence , Halajko Anne , Amatucci Glenn
Published: October 2010

Electrochemically self assembled lithium iodide (LiI) secondary batteries were formed by the electrolytic decomposition of LiI(xH2O) based composites between two current collectors, effectively forming a lithium metal anode and mixed conducting polyiodide cathode in-situ. Through the unique aspects of the chemistry, an interdigitated cell design was utilized for visual and spectroscopic in-situ investigation of the cathode during electrode formation. A detailed study was performed to understand the development of conductivity, both ionic and electronic, and its relationship to structural development during the charging process.
Solid State EDLCs Using Various Ionic Polymers: A Study
Authors: Subramaniam Chittur Krishnaswamy
Published: October 2010

Various carbon-carbon EDLCs were assembled with ionic polymers of perfluorosulphonic acid polymer in the H+, Na+ and K+ forms, composites of polytetrafluoro ethylene (PTFE) and perfluorosulphonic acid, PVA-KOH, sulphonated PEEK and PVdF. The surface area of the carbon used in these EDLCs is 260 m2/gm. Cyclic Voltammetry (CV), Electrochemical Impedance Spectroscopy (EIS) and discharge profiles were used for characterization. The typical working voltage of these EDLCs was 2V. The specific capacitance was found to be 20 F/g for the perflurosulphonic acid electrolyte in H+ form, 40 F/g for the Na+ form and 55 F/g for the K+ form. A specific capacitance of 16 F/g was obtained for the EDLC with the composite of PTFE/perluorosulphonic acid polymer as electrolyte. EDLCs with PVA-KOH and sulphonated PEEK as electrolyte gave specific capacitance of 7.5 F/g and 1.0 F/g, respectively. EDLC modules of 5F (2.0V) were developed using carbon electrodes and composites of PTFE/perflurosulphonic.
Improved Maximum Power Density of Alkaline Membrane Fuel Cells (AMFCs) by the Optimization of MEA Construction
Authors: Fukuta Kenji , Inoue Hiroshi , Chikashige Yohei , Yanagi Hiroyuki
Published: October 2010

By optimizing several factors in MEA construction, AMFC performances were evaluated. Using Tokuyama's newly developed membrane and ionomer of higher conductivity, also with the optimized catalyst/ionomer ratio, maximum power density of 340 mW/cm2 with clean air and 450 mW/cm2 with oxygen were achieved, suggesting high potential of AMFCs.
The Reverse Boudouard Reaction in Direct Carbon Fuel Cells
Authors: Chen Chia-Chin , Maruyama Toru , Hsieh Ping-Hsun , Selman J. Robert
Published: October 2010

The Direct Carbon Fuel Cell (DCFC) has generated renewed attention recently, because of its potentially very high conversion efficiency. However, the performance of DCFC appears to be appreciably limited by the reverse Boudouard reaction, also termed "carbon corrosion" reaction. This paper aims to understand this limitation, by investigating the mechanism of carbon corrosion in molten carbonate. The open-circuit potential behavior of carbon in molten carbonate is measured. Analysis of its time-dependence suggests that in molten carbonate medium the reverse Boudouard reaction occurs as a result of two compensating electrochemical reactions. In addition, the wettability of the carbon electrode in molten carbonate plays an important role in the potential behavior. Direct observation confirms that the wetting phenomena are driven not only by capillary forces but also by the reverse Boudouard reaction. Finally, it is concluded that the anodic reaction of DCFC appears to be composed of multiple electrochemical reactions.
Crystal Structure and Electrochemical Study of A(Fe1-xMx)SO4F (A = Li/Na; M = Co/Ni/Mn) Fluorosulfates Prepared by Low Temperature Ionothermal Synthesis
Authors: Barpanda Prabeer , Ati Mohamed , Recham Nadir , Chotard Jean-Nöel , Walker Wesley , Armand Michel , Tarascon Jean-Marie
Published: October 2010

In the quest for next-generation cathodes for Li-ion batteries, our group has come up with a novel metal fluorosulphate material LiFeSO4F tying the benefits of sulphate polyanions with fluorine chemistry. It delivers excellent capacity (~140 mAh/g) involving a 3.6 V Fe+2/+3 redox plateau along with good rate capability and capacity retention. Following, we have discovered various isostructural LiMSO4F compounds (M = Co, Ni, Mn) as well as sodium-based metal fluorosulphate NaMSO4Fcompounds (M = Fe, Co, Ni, Mn). All these novel compounds have been prepared using low temperature synthesis, not exceeding 300{degree sign}C and their structures have been solved. In an effort to examine and improve the electrochemical properties of electrochemically active AFeSO4F (A = Li, Na) homologues, we hereby investigate the synthesis, crystal structure, conductivity and electrochemical behaviour of 3d-metal substituted fluorosulphates A(Fe1-xMx)SO4F (A = Li, Na; M = Co, Ni, Mn) compounds.
Morphology Control of Electrodeposited Zinc from Alkaline Zincate Solutions for Rechargeable Zinc Air Batteries
Authors: Shaigan Nima , Qu Wei , Takeda Tabitha
Published: October 2010

Anomalous electrocrystallization of Zn in alkaline electrolytes is one of the hurdles hindering the development and commercialization of secondary alkaline Zn batteries. The issue stems from the fast electrochemical kinetics of Zn. Pulse deposition enables the use of high peak current densities and overpotentials in short periods of pulse on-time, increases the nucleation rate and improves the deposit morphology. Electrochemical behavior of Zn and effect of pulse parameters including duty cycle and frequency on deposit morphology was studied for electrolytes containing 4, 6 and 9 M KOH. It was shown that in order to attain fine-grain, smooth deposits, small duty cycles and high frequencies are required. Pulse deposition, however, does not improve the morphology in case highly concentrated KOH electrolytes are used.
Electrocatalytic Activities of Perovskite toward Oxygen Reduction Reaction in Concentrated Alkaline Electrolytes
Authors: Li XiaoXia , Qu Wei , Zhang Jiujun , Wang Haijiang
Published: October 2010

Perovskite La0.6Ca0.4CoO3 powder was prepared through a sol-gel method and characterized by XRD and BET. The electrocatalytic properties of La0.6Ca0.4CoO3 (LCCO) and La0.6Ca0.4CoO3-Carbon composite (LCCO-C) based electrode layers towards oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) were studied using rotating ring-disk electrode technique (RRDE) in 1, 4, and 6 M KOH electrolytes. Koutechy-Levich theory and RRDE measurement were applied to acquire the overall electron transfer number and kinetic parameters, such as the kinetic currents and rate constants. The overall electron transfer number was measured to be almost 4 for both pure LCCO and composite LCCO-C. A synergetic effect toward the ORR was observed in the LCCO electrode layer in the presence of carbon. This synergetic effect might be one of the reasons for the improved ORR performance on the composite LCCO-C electrode.
A novel protein kinase D inhibitor attenuates early events of experimental pancreatitis in isolated rat acini
Authors: Thrower Edwin C. , Yuan Jingzhen , Usmani Ashar , Liu Yannan , Jones Courtney , Minervini Samantha N. , Alexandre Martine , Pandol Stephen J. , Guha Sushovan
Published: October 2010

Novel protein kinase C isoforms (PKC δ and ε) mediate early events in acute pancreatitis. Protein kinase D (PKD/PKD1) is a convergent point of PKC δ and ε in the signaling pathways triggered through CCK or cholinergic receptors and has been shown to activate the transcription factor NF-κB in acute pancreatitis. For the present study we hypothesized that a newly developed PKD/PKD1 inhibitor, CRT0066101, would prevent the initial events leading to pancreatitis. We pretreated isolated rat pancreatic acinar cells with CRT0066101 and a commercially available inhibitor Gö6976 (10 μM). This was followed by stimulation for 60 min with high concentrations of cholecystokinin (CCK, 0.1 μM), carbachol (CCh, 1 mM), or bombesin (10 μM) to induce initial events of pancreatitis. PKD/PKD1 phosphorylation and activity were measured as well as zymogen activation, amylase secretion, cell injury and NF-κB activation. CRT0066101 dose dependently inhibited secretagogue-induced PKD/PKD1 activation and autophosphorylation at Ser-916 with an IC50∼3.75–5 μM but had no effect on PKC-dependent phosphorylation of the PKD/PKD1 activation loop (Ser-744/748). Furthermore, CRT0066101 reduced secretagogue-induced zymogen activation and amylase secretion. Gö6976 reduced zymogen activation but not amylase secretion. Neither inhibitor affected basal zymogen activation or secretion. CRT0066101 did not affect secretagogue-induced cell injury or changes in cell morphology, but it reduced NF-κB activation by 75% of maximal for CCK- and CCh-stimulated acinar cells. In conclusion, CRT0066101 is a potent and specific PKD family inhibitor. Furthermore, PKD/PKD1 is a potential mediator of zymogen activation, amylase secretion, and NF-κB activation induced by a range of secretagogues in pancreatic acinar cells.
Circadian regulation of cardiovascular function: a role for vasoactive intestinal peptide
Authors: Schroeder Analyne , Loh Dawn H. , Jordan Maria C. , Roos Kenneth P. , Colwell Christopher S.
Published: October 2010

The circadian system, driven by the suprachiasmatic nucleus (SCN), regulates properties of cardiovascular function. The dysfunction of this timing system can result in cardiac pathology. The neuropeptide vasoactive intestinal peptide (VIP) is crucial for circadian rhythms in a number of biological processes including SCN electrical activity and wheel running behavior. Anatomic evidence indicates that SCN neurons expressing VIP are well positioned to drive circadian regulation of cardiac function through interactions with the autonomic centers. In this study, we tested the hypothesis that loss of VIP would result in circadian deficits in heart rate (HR) and clock gene expression in cardiac tissue. We implanted radiotelemetry devices into VIP-deficient mice and wild-type (WT) controls and continuously recorded HR, body temperature, and cage activity in freely moving mice. Under light-dark conditions, VIP-deficient mice displayed weak rhythms in HR, body temperature, and cage activity, with onsets that were advanced in phase compared with WT mice. Similarly, clock gene expression in cardiac tissue was rhythmic but phase advanced in mutant mice. In constant darkness, the normal circadian rhythms in HR were lost in VIP-deficient mice; however, most mutant mice continued to exhibit circadian rhythms of body temperature with shortened free-running period. The loss of VIP altered, but did not abolish, autonomic regulation of HR. Analysis of the echocardiograms did not find any evidence for a loss of cardiac function in VIP-deficient mice, and the size of the hearts did not differ between genotypes. These results demonstrate that VIP is an important regulator of physiological circadian rhythmicity in the heart.
Assessment of flow-mediated dilation in humans: a methodological and physiological guideline
Authors: Thijssen Dick H. J. , Black Mark A. , Pyke Kyra E. , Padilla Jaume , Atkinson Greg , Harris Ryan A. , Parker Beth , Widlansky Michael E. , Tschakovsky Michael E. , Green Daniel J.
Published: October 2010

Endothelial dysfunction is now considered an important early event in the development of atherosclerosis, which precedes gross morphological signs and clinical symptoms. The assessment of flow-mediated dilation (FMD) was introduced almost 20 years ago as a noninvasive approach to examine vasodilator function in vivo. FMD is widely believed to reflect endothelium-dependent and largely nitric oxide-mediated arterial function and has been used as a surrogate marker of vascular health. This noninvasive technique has been used to compare groups of subjects and to evaluate the impact of interventions within individuals. Despite its widespread adoption, there is considerable variability between studies with respect to the protocols applied, methods of analysis, and interpretation of results. Moreover, differences in methodological approaches have important impacts on the response magnitude, can result in spurious data interpretation, and limit the comparability of outcomes between studies. This review results from a collegial discussion between physiologists with the purpose of developing considered guidelines. The contributors represent several distinct research groups that have independently worked to advance the evidence base for improvement of the technical approaches to FMD measurement and analysis. The outcome is a series of recommendations on the basis of review and critical appraisal of recent physiological studies, pertaining to the most appropriate methods to assess FMD in humans.
Epicardial fat gene expression after aerobic exercise training in pigs with coronary atherosclerosis: relationship to visceral and subcutaneous fat
Authors: Company Joseph M. , Booth Frank W. , Laughlin M. Harold , Arce-Esquivel Arturo A. , Sacks Harold S. , Bahouth Suleiman W. , Fain John N.
Published: October 2010

Epicardial adipose tissue (EAT) is contiguous with coronary arteries and myocardium and potentially may play a role in coronary atherosclerosis (CAD). Exercise is known to improve cardiovascular disease risk factors. The purpose of this study was to investigate the effect of aerobic exercise training on the expression of 18 genes, measured by RT-PCR and selected for their role in chronic inflammation, oxidative stress, and adipocyte metabolism, in peri-coronary epicardial (cEAT), peri-myocardial epicardial (mEAT), visceral abdominal (VAT), and subcutaneous (SAT) adipose tissues from a castrate male pig model of familial hypercholesterolemia with CAD. We tested the hypothesis that aerobic exercise training for 16 wk would reduce the inflammatory profile of mRNAs in both components of EAT and VAT but would have little effect on SAT. Exercise increased mEAT and total heart weights. EAT and heart weights were directly correlated. Compared with sedentary pigs matched for body weight to exercised animals, aerobic exercise training reduced the inflammatory response in mEAT but not cEAT, had no effect on inflammatory genes but preferentially decreased expression of adiponectin and other adipocyte-specific genes in VAT, and had no effect in SAT except that IL-6 mRNA went down and VEGFa mRNA went up. We conclude that 1) EAT is not homogeneous in its inflammatory response to aerobic exercise training, 2) cEAT around CAD remains proinflammatory after chronic exercise, 3) cEAT and VAT share similar inflammatory expression profiles but different metabolic mRNA responses to exercise, and 4) gene expression in SAT cannot be extrapolated to VAT and heart adipose tissues in exercise intervention studies.
Production of VEGF receptor 1 and 2 mRNA and protein during endochondral bone repair is differential and healing phase specific
Authors: Reumann Marie K. , Nair Turya , Strachna Olga , Boskey Adele L. , Mayer-Kuckuk Philipp
Published: October 2010

Physiological disturbances, including temporary hypoxia, are expected to drive angiogenesis during bone repair. Evidence suggests that the angiogenic ligand vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF)-A plays an important role in this process. We characterized the expression of two receptors that are essential for mediating VEGF signaling, VEGFR1/Flt-1 and VEGFR2/Flk-1/KDR, in a mouse rib fracture model. Their mRNA and protein levels were assessed in four healing phases, which were characterized histologically as hemorrhage formation on postfracture day (PFD) 1, inflammatory response on PFD 3, initiation of callus development on PFD 7, and the presence of a mature callus on PFD 14. Transcript was detected for VEGFR1 and VEGFR2, as well as VEGF. While mRNA expression of VEGFR1 was monophasic throughout all healing phases, VEGFR2 showed a biphasic profile with significantly increased mRNA expression during callus formation and maturation. Expression of VEGF mRNA was characterized by a more gradual increase during callus formation. The protein level for VEGFR1 was below detection sensitivity during the initial healing phase. It was then restored to a stable level, detectable through the subsequent healing phases. Hence, the VEGFR1 protein levels partially mirrored the transcript expression profile. In comparison, the protein level of VEGFR2 increased gradually during the healing phases and peaked at callus maturation. This correlated well with the transcriptional expression of VEGFR2. Intact bone from age-matched male mice had considerable protein levels of VEGFR1 and VEGF, but no detectable VEGFR2. Together, these findings uncovered expression signatures of the VEGF-VEGFR axis in endochondral bone repair.
The Na+/Ca2+ exchanger-1 mediates left ventricular dysfunction in mice with chronic intermittent hypoxia
Authors: Chen Ling , Zhang Jin , Hu Xuejiao , Philipson Kenneth D. , Scharf Steven M.
Published: October 2010

Chronic intermittent hypoxia (CIH) and cardiovascular dysfunction occur in patients with obstructive sleep apnea. We hypothesized that the Na+/Ca2+ exchanger-1 (NCX1) mediates, at least partially, left ventricular (LV) dysfunction in CIH. Four groups of mice ( N = 15–17 per group), either cardiac-specific NCX1 knockouts (KO) or wild types (WT), were exposed to either CIH or normoxia [i.e., handled controls (HC)] 10 h/day for 8 wk. As expected, myocardial expression of NCX1 was greater in WT than in KO animals, both in HC and CIH-exposed groups. In both CIH groups (WT or KO), but not the HC groups, blood pressure increased by 10% at week 1 over their baseline and remained elevated for all 8 wk, with no differences between WT and KO. LV dilation (increased diastolic and systolic dimension) and hypertrophy (increased left heart weight), along with LV dysfunction (greater end-diastolic pressure and lower ejection fraction), were observed in the WT animals compared with the KO following CIH exposure. Compared with HC, CIH exposure was associated with apoptosis (terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase dUTP-mediated nick-end labeling and caspase-3) in WT, but not KO, mice. We conclude that myocardial NCX1 does not mediate changes in blood pressure, but is one of the mediators for LV global dysfunction and cardiomyocyte injury in CIH.
Expression of Snail in Upper Urinary Tract Urothelial Carcinoma: Prognostic Significance and Implications for Tumor Invasion
Authors: Kosaka Takeo , Kikuchi Eiji , Mikami Shuji , Miyajima Akira , Shirotake Suguru , Ishida Masaru , Okada Yasunori , Oya Mototsugu
Published: October 2010

Purpose: There are few molecular markers known to predict upper urinary tract urothelial carcinomas (UTUC) prognosis. Snail, which contributes to epithelial–mesenchymal transition (EMT), has been documented in cancer progression, but not clear yet in UTUC. We therefore addressed the expression and biological significance of Snail in UTUC.

Experimental Design: To elucidate the biological significance of Snail in UTUC, we examined the immunohistochemical expression of snail in UTUC and analyzed its clinical significance in 150 patients with UTUC. Biological effects of Snail in EMT and invasion were evaluated by using small interfering RNA (siRNA) specific for Snail in urothelial carcinoma cell lines and the Matrigel invasion assay.

Results: Nuclear Snail staining was very weak in superficial UTUC. In contrast, strong Snail staining was observed in many of the nucleus of invasive UTUC. Snail expression was significantly higher in the high tumor stage, high grade, and in tumors showing lymphovascular invasion (LVI). Multivariate Cox regression analysis revealed that elevated Snail expression was a significant and an independent prognostic predictor of recurrence-free survival and cancer-specific survival. Patients with positive LVI and high Snail expression showed the worse outcome. Targeting of Snail mRNA expression in UMUC-3 cells with Snail-specific siRNA downregulated the mRNA expression of Snail, Vimentin, MMP2, and MMP9. Furthermore, the cells with siRNA for Snail showed decreased invasion activity in comparison with the cells transfected with a nontargeting siRNA.

Conclusion: Snail-induced EMT represents a clinically relevant mechanism of UTUC progression and an attractive target for the treatment of patients with UTUC. Clin Cancer Res; 16(23); 5814–23. ©2010 AACR.
A First-in-Human Study of Conatumumab in Adult Patients with Advanced Solid Tumors
Authors: Herbst Roy S. , Kurzrock Razelle , Hong David S. , Valdivieso Manuel , Hsu Cheng-Pang , Goyal Lovely , Juan Gloria , Hwang Yuying C. , Wong Susan , Hill John S. , Friberg Greg , LoRusso Patricia M.
Published: October 2010

Purpose: To determine the safety, tolerability, pharmacokinetics, and maximum tolerated dose (MTD) of conatumumab, an investigational, fully human monoclonal agonist antibody against human death receptor 5, in patients with advanced solid tumors.

Experimental Design: In the dose-escalation phase, patients received escalating intravenous doses of conatumumab (0.3, 1, 3, 10, or 20 mg/kg, 3–9 per cohort) every 2 weeks. In the dose-expansion phase, 10 patients with colorectal cancer (CRC) and 7 with non–small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) received 20 mg/kg of conatumumab every 2 weeks.

Results: Thirty-seven patients received 1 or more doses of conatumumab. Conatumumab seemed to be well tolerated; there were no dose-limiting toxicities. Of adverse events possibly related to treatment, only 3 patients (8%) had a grade 3 event (fatigue and/or elevated lipase), and no anticonatumumab antibodies were detected. An MTD was not reached. Conatumumab exhibited dose linear kinetics from 3 to 20 mg/kg, with a mean terminal half-life of 13 to 19 days. One patient with NSCLC (0.3 mg/kg) had a confirmed partial response (PR) at week 32 (38% reduction in tumor size), with further reduction (48%) by week 96; this patient remains on conatumumab after 4.2 years with a sustained PR. Fourteen patients had a best response of stable disease, 2 for 32 weeks or more. One patient with CRC (0.3 mg/kg) and stable disease for 24 weeks had a 24% reduction in tumor size by RECIST (Response Evaluation Criteria in Solid Tumors) and a 35% reduction in the sum of standardized uptake values of all lesions measured by [18F]fluorodeoxyglucose positron emission tomographic scan. Changes in tumor levels of activated caspase-3 did not appear to be associated with tumor response.

Conclusions: Conatumumab can be administered safely up to the target dose of 20 mg/kg every 2 weeks. Clin Cancer Res; 16(23); 5883–91. ©2010 AACR.
Context-Dependent Bidirectional Regulation of the MutS Homolog 2 by Transforming Growth Factor β Contributes to Chemoresistance in Breast Cancer Cells
Authors: Yu Yang , Wang Yujun , Ren Xiubao , Tsuyada Akihiro , Li Arthur , Liu Liguang James , Wang Shizhen Emily
Published: October 2010

The TGF-β, a tumor suppressive cytokine in normal cells, is abused in cancer to promote the malignancy. In this study, we reported that TGF-β downregulated the mutS homolog 2 (MSH2), a central component of the DNA mismatch repair (MMR) system, in HER2-transformed MCF10A mammary epithelial cells and in breast cancer (BC) cells. This was mediated by a TGF-β–induced micro RNA (miRNA), miR-21, which targeted the 3′ untranslated region of MSH2 mRNA and downregulated its expression. A negative correlation between the expression of TGF-β1 and MSH2 was also detected in primary breast tumors. In contrast, TGF-β upregulated MSH2 in nontransformed cells through Smad-mediated, p53-dependent promoter activation, which was absent in BC cells with impaired p53 function. Although this upregulating mechanism also existed in MCF10A/HER2 and p53-proficient BC cells, both basal and TGF-β–induced MSH2 promoter activities were significantly lower than those in MCF10A. Moreover, the basal and TGF-β–induced miR-21 levels were markedly higher in transformed cells, suggesting that the preset levels of miR-21 and MSH2 promoter activity, which is affected by the p53 status, determine the outputs of the bidirectional regulation of MSH2 by TGF-β in a certain cellular context. We further found that by downregulating MSH2, TGF-β contributed to resistance to DNA-damaging chemotherapy agents in cancer cells. Our results indicated a regulatory antagonism between promoter activation and miRNA-mediated posttranscriptional inhibition underlying a dual effect of TGF-β on the DNA repair machinery, which may influence the genomic stability in a context-dependent manner and contribute to chemoresistance in cancer. Mol Cancer Res; 8(12); 1633–42. ©2010 AACR.
Chemoprophylactic Activity of Flubendazole in Cystic Echinococcosis
Authors: Ceballos Laura , Elissondo Celina , Sánchez Bruni Sergio , Confalonieri Alejandra , Denegri Guillermo , Alvarez Luis , Lanusse Carlos
Published: October 2010

Background: Cystic echinococcosis (CE) is an important public health problem worldwide. Flubendazole, administered in tablets, has shown poor in vivo efficacy against CE in humans. However, flubendazole prepared as a solution caused a marked reduction in hydatid cysts developed in mice. The goal of the current work was to compare the chemoprophylactic effect of flubendazole formulated either as a hydroxypropyl-β-cyclodextrin solution or as a carboxymethylcellulose suspension in secondary CE in mice. Methods: Balb/C mice were infected with Echinococcus granulosus protoscoleces. One day after infection, the animals were allocated into 3 different experimental groups: unmedicated control and treated at the time point of infection with flubendazole either prepared as a solution or suspension given twice a day during 15 days. Six months after infection, the animals were sacrificed to collect and weight parasitic cysts. Cyst samples recovered from infected mice of each experimental group were prepared for both scanning and transmission electron microscopy. Results: Both flubendazole formulations induced a significant reduction in cyst weight compared to the cysts recovered from the unmedicated control animals. Both formulations showed similar flubendazole-induced ultrastructural morphological changes. Conclusion: Flubendazole offers a great potential to become a drug of choice in the preventive treatment of cystic echinococcosis.
High-Grade Internal Carotid Artery Stenosis and Chronic Brain Damage: A Volumetric Magnetic Resonance Imaging Study
Authors: Enzinger Christian , Ropele Stefan , Gattringer Thomas , Langkammer Christian , Schmidt Reinhold , Fazekas Franz
Published: October 2010

Background: Experimental data suggest that high-grade vascular stenosis may induce chronic cerebral tissue damage. Methods: We tested this hypothesis in 97 patients with a ≧70% unilateral internal carotid artery (ICA) stenosis (mean age: 69.1 ± 10.2 years), comparing intraindividual side-to-side differences in hemispheric brain and white matter hyperintensity (WMH) volumes. Patients with a supratentorial infarct exceeding 1.5 cm in diameter were excluded. Results: Overall, the median WMH volume was greater in the hemisphere ipsilateral to the stenotic ICA (1.13 ± 2.65 vs. 0.77 ± 2.26 cm3; p = 0.005), but there were no differences in hemispheric brain volumes between the stenotic and nonstenotic sides. In the subgroup of patients with moderate and severe WMH (n = 41), the hemispheric volume ipsilateral to the stenotic ICA was significantly smaller (543.46 ± 22.17 vs. 548.66 ± 26.7 cm3; p = 0.03). Multivariate linear regression analysis revealed an independent effect of WMH grade on interhemispheric volume differences relative to the side of stenosis. Conclusions: Chronic tissue damage may occur in a subset of individuals with ≧70% ICA stenosis, globally exhibiting more extensive WMH.
Commissural Myelotomy in the Treatment of Intractable Visceral Pain: Technique and Outcomes
Authors: Viswanathan Ashwin , Burton Allen W. , Rekito Andy , McCutcheon Ian E.
Published: October 2010

Background: Commissural myelotomy can be valuable for patients with intractable pain associated with malignancy in the abdominal or pelvic region. Methods: Between December 1992 and June 2009, 11 patients underwent commissural myelotomy at the University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center for the treatment of intractable lower extremity, thoracic, pelvic or sacral pain associated with unresectable tumors. The various surgical approaches to myelotomy are discussed. Results: Eight patients had excellent or good outcomes with regard to pain relief, defined as no further pain (excellent) or a significant reduction in pain and not requiring opioids stronger than codeine (good). Complications included new leg weakness (n = 3) and bladder dysfunction (n = 1). Conclusion: We found that for the properly selected patient, open midline commissural myelotomy can provide effective pain relief with acceptable postoperative morbidity.
Gastric Cancer in Poland – Clinical Characteristics and Results of Surgery
Authors: Zielinski Jacek , Jaworski Radoslaw , Kabata Pawel , Kruszewski Wieslaw Janusz , Jaskiewicz Janusz
Published: October 2010

Aims: The aim of the study was to assess the long-term outcomes of the surgical-only management of gastric cancer (GC) patients treated in a single centre over 10-year span preceding introduction of multimodal therapy to the clinical practice. Methods: Two hundred and one patients with pathologic confirmation of GC treated for resectable tumor mostly with curative intent were enrolled in the study. The analysis comprised a review of the medical histories, descriptions of the operations, results of histopathological studies and long-time survival. Results: Median survival time and 5-year survival rate for patients with R0 vs. R1 and R2 resection were 3.85 years and 43.5% versus 0.86 years and 7.8%, respectively. Univariate analyses showed that 5-year survival rates were correlated with histopathological type according to Laurén, type of lymphadenectomy performed, spleen preservation, stage of disease and the degree of radical resection. Independent prognostic factors in multivariate analysis were: no residual tumor after resection, type of lymphadenectomy, depth of tumor invasion in the gastric wall and lymph nodes status. Conclusions: Retrospective analysis of the long-term results of the surgical-only management of GC patients may be useful in assessment of the quality of medical services, especially prior to introduction of multimodal therapy.
Morphological Classification of Mobile Plaques and Their Association with Early Recurrence of Stroke
Authors: Ogata Toshiyasu , Yasaka Masahiro , Wakugawa Yoshiyuki , Kitazono Takanari , Okada Yasushi
Published: October 2010

Background: The present study investigated the frequency and morphological characteristics of carotid mobile plaques and examined the relationship between carotid mobile plaques and recurrent strokes. Methods: The study included 94 consecutive acute stroke patients with large-artery atherosclerosis associated with extracranial carotid stenosis. We investigated the presence of mobile plaques by carotid ultrasonography and classified patients into two groups (mobile group and non-mobile group). We compared backgrounds, MRI and ultrasonographic findings, neurological severity on admission and at discharge, and the rate of early recurrent stroke between both groups. Results: Mobile plaques were detected in 12 patients (12.8%). There were four types of mobile plaques: (1) the jellyfish-type plaque, in which the fibrous cap fluctuated like a jellyfish; (2) the streaming-band-type plaque, in which the string attached to the plaque was swaying; (3) the mobile-thrombus-type plaque, in which a mobile mass was attached to the plaque surface, and (4) the fluctuating-ulcer-type plaque, which contained a mobile substance in the plaque ulcer. Although National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale (NIHSS) scores on admission were less severe in the mobile group than in the non-mobile group (median 1 vs. 4, respectively; p = 0.004), the rate of early recurrent stroke was significantly higher in the mobile group than in the non-mobile group (33.3 vs. 7.3%, respectively; p = 0.022). There were no significant differences in NIHSS scores at discharge between groups. Conclusions: Morphologically, several types of mobile plaques were detected in consecutive patients with acute stroke associated with carotid stenosis. Mobile plaques are strongly associated with an early recurrence of stroke.
Association of a Functional Polymorphism in the MMP-3 Gene with Moyamoya Disease in the Chinese Han Population
Authors: Li Hao , Zhang Zheng-Shan , Liu Wei , Yang Wei-Zhong , Dong Zhen-Nan , Ma Mai-Juan , Han Cong , Yang Hong , Cao Wu-Chun , Duan Lian
Published: October 2010

Background: Moyamoya disease (MMD) is an uncommon cerebrovascular disease characterized by progressive stenosis of the intracranial internal carotid arteries and their proximal branches. The important role of genetic factors in the etiology and pathogenesis of MMD is being increasingly recognized. The study was designed to examine the association of single nucleotide polymorphisms in matrix metalloproteinase (MMP) and tissue inhibitors of metalloproteinase (TIMP) genes with MMD occurrence. Methods: A case-control study was performed. Five functional promoter polymorphisms in the MMP-2, MMP-3, MMP-9 and MMP-13 genes and a potentially functional promoter polymorphism in the TIMP-2 gene were determined by polymerase chain reaction-restriction fragment length polymorphism. Their associations with MMD were analyzed by multivariate logistic regression. Results: In total, 208 definite patients with MMD (including 31 familial MMD, FMMD, patients) and 224 healthy subjects were recruited. The frequency of the MMP-3 5A/6A and 5A/5A genotypes was significantly lower in MMD patients (OR = 0.57, 95% CI 0.38–0.86, pcorr = 0.042) compared with healthy controls in a dominant genetic model. Significant differences of the MMP-3 5A/6A polymorphism were also detected between FMMD patients and controls both in the dominant genetic model (OR = 0.23, 95% CI 0.08–0.68, pcorr = 0.048) and the additive genetic model (OR = 0.24, 95% CI 0.08–0.69, pcorr = 0.048). Conclusion: The functional polymorphism in the MMP-3 promoter might be associated with susceptibility to both MMD and FMMD in the Chinese Han population. The findings need to be validated in further studies including more subjects from different populations.