bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Airborne thermal remote sensing of the Volcán de Colima (Mexico) lava dome from 2007 to 2010
Authors: Hutchison William , Varley Nick , Pyle David M. , Mather Tamsin A. , Stevenson John A.
Published: July 2013

We investigate high-resolution digital photographs and infrared images of the lava dome eruption at Volcán de Colima, from 2007 to 2010. Qualitative observations provide insight into active volcanic processes (e.g. rockfalls and fracturing) and show that, as the dome advances a substantial cooled talus apron develops, which stabilizes the structure. Progressive collapse of the talus apron as it reaches the crater rim corresponds with the development of a lava lobe, extruding hot lava from deeper within the dome. Quantitative dome surface temperature time-series show that the highest temperature hotspots migrate from the dome sides (250–380 °C) to the top (150–300 °C) and finally to the lava lobe (220–400 °C) as the structurally unstable areas expose fresh material. Net surface heat loss from the dome ranges from 5 to 30 MW, comparable to other dome forming systems. Heat budget calculations confirm that the lava dome retained a hot viscous core throughout the period 2007–2010. We propose that the mechanical stability of the Volcán de Colima dome arises from the shear strength of flanking talus which stabilizes the hot viscous core.
VDB
Authors: Museth Ken
Published: July 2013

We have developed a novel hierarchical data structure for the efficient representation of sparse, time-varying volumetric data discretized on a 3D grid. Our “VDB”, so named because it is a Volumetric, Dynamic grid that shares several characteristics with B+trees, exploits spatial coherency of time-varying data to separately and compactly encode data values and grid topology. VDB models a virtually infinite 3D index space that allows for cache-coherent and fast data access into sparse volumes of high resolution. It imposes no topology restrictions on the sparsity of the volumetric data, and it supports fast (average
O
(1)) random access patterns when the data are inserted, retrieved, or deleted. This is in contrast to most existing sparse volumetric data structures, which assume either static or manifold topology and require specific data access patterns to compensate for slow random access. Since the VDB data structure is fundamentally hierarchical, it also facilitates adaptive grid sampling, and the inherent acceleration structure leads to fast algorithms that are well-suited for simulations. As such, VDB has proven useful for several applications that call for large, sparse, animated volumes, for example, level set dynamics and cloud modeling. In this article, we showcase some of these algorithms and compare VDB with existing, state-of-the-art data structures.
Analysis and optimization for boolean expression indexing
Authors: Sadoghi Mohammad , Jacobsen Hans-Arno
Published: July 2013

BE-Tree is a novel dynamic data structure designed to efficiently index Boolean expressions over a high-dimensional discrete space. BE Tree-copes with both high-dimensionality and expressiveness of Boolean expressions by introducing an effective two-phase space-cutting technique that specifically utilizes the discrete and finite domain properties of the space. Furthermore, BE-Tree employs self-adjustment policies to dynamically adapt the tree as the workload changes. Moreover, in BE-Tree, we develop two novel cache-conscious predicate evaluation techniques, namely, lazy and bitmap evaluations, that also exploit the underlying discrete and finite space to substantially reduce BE-Tree's matching time by up to 75%

BE-Tree is a general index structure for matching Boolean expression which has a wide range of applications including (complex) event processing, publish/subscribe matching, emerging applications in cospaces, profile matching for targeted web advertising, and approximate string matching. Finally, the superiority of BE-Tree is proven through a comprehensive evaluation with state-of-the-art index structures designed for matching Boolean expressions.
RFID-data compression for supporting aggregate queries
Authors: Fazzinga Bettina , Flesca Sergio , Furfaro Filippo , Masciari Elio
Published: July 2013

RFID-based systems for object tracking and supply chain management have been emerging since the RFID technology proved effective in monitoring movements of objects. The monitoring activity typically results in huge numbers of readings, thus making the problem of efficiently retrieving aggregate information from the collected data a challenging issue. In fact, tackling this problem is of crucial importance, as fast answers to aggregate queries are often mandatory to support the decision making process. In this regard, a compression technique for RFID data is proposed, and used as the core of a system supporting the efficient estimation of aggregate queries. Specifically, this technique aims at constructing a lossy synopsis of the data over which aggregate queries can be estimated, without accessing the original data. Owing to the lossy nature of the compression, query estimates are approximate, and are returned along with intervals that are guaranteed to contain the exact query answers. The effectiveness of the proposed approach has been experimentally validated, showing a remarkable trade-off between the efficiency and the accuracy of the query estimation.
Pushing CDN-ISP collaboration to the limit
Authors: Frank Benjamin , Poese Ingmar , Lin Yin , Smaragdakis Georgios , Feldmann Anja , Maggs Bruce , Rake Jannis , Uhlig Steve , Weber Rick
Published: July 2013

Today a spectrum of solutions are available for istributing content over the Internet, ranging from commercial CDNs to ISP-operated CDNs to content-provider-operated CDNs to peer-to-peer CDNs. Some deploy servers in just a few large data centers while others deploy in thousands of locations or even on millions of desktops. Recently, major CDNs have formed strategic alliances with large ISPs to provide content delivery network solutions. Such alliances show the natural evolution of content delivery today driven by the need to address scalability issues and to take advantage of new technology and business opportunities.

In this paper we revisit the design and operating space of CDN-ISP collaboration in light of recent ISP and CDN alliances. We identify two key enablers for supporting collaboration and improving content delivery performance: informed end-user to server assignment and in-network server allocation. We report on the design and evaluation of a prototype system, NetPaaS, that materializes them. Relying on traces from the largest commercial CDN and a large tier-1 ISP, we show that NetPaaS is able to increase CDN capacity on-demand, enable coordination, reduce download time, and achieve multiple traffic engineering goals leading to a win-win situation for both ISP and CDN.
Strengthening measurements from the edges
Authors: Basso Simone , Meo Michela , De Martin Juan Carlos
Published: July 2013

Network users know much less than ISPs, Internet exchanges and content providers about what happens inside the network. Consequently users cannot either easily detect network neutrality violations or readily exercise their market power by knowledgeably switching ISPs.

This paper contributes to the ongoing efforts to empower users by proposing two models to estimate -- via application-level measurements -- a key network indicator, i.e., the packet loss rate (PLR) experienced by FTP-like TCP downloads.

Controlled, testbed, and large-scale experiments show that the Inverse Mathis model is simpler and more consistent across the whole PLR range, but less accurate than the more advanced Likely Rexmit model for landline connections and moderate PLR.
Rethinking the physical layer of data center networks of the next decade
Authors: Wang Howard , Xia Yiting , Bergman Keren , Ng T.S. Eugene , Sahu Sambit , Sripanidkulchai Kunwadee
Published: July 2013

Not only do big data applications impose heavy bandwidth demands, they also have diverse communication patterns denoted as *-cast) that mix together unicast, multicast, incast, and all-to-all-cast. Effectively supporting such traffic demands remains an open problem in data center networking. We propose an unconventional approach that leverages physical layer photonic technologies to build custom communication devices for accelerating each *-cast pattern, and integrates such devices into an application-driven, dynamically configurable photonics accelerated data center network. We present preliminary results from a multicast case study to highlight the potential benefits of this approach.
On the potential of recommendation technologies for efficient content delivery networks
Authors: Kaafar Mohamed Ali , Berkovsky Shlomo , Donnet Benoit
Published: July 2013

During the last decade, we have witnessed a substantial change in content delivery networks (CDNs) and user access paradigms. If previously, users consumed content from a central server through their personal computers, nowadays they can reach a wide variety of repositories from virtually everywhere using mobile devices. This results in a considerable time-, location-, and event-based volatility of content popularity. In such a context, it is imperative for CDNs to put in place adaptive content management strategies, thus, improving the quality of services provided to users and decreasing the costs. In this paper, we introduce predictive content distribution strategies inspired by methods developed in the Recommender Systems area. Specifically, we outline different content placement strategies based on the observed user consumption patterns, and advocate their applicability in the state of the art CDNs.
The Exposure of Breast Cancer Cells to Fulvestrant and Tamoxifen Modulates Cell Migration Differently
Authors: Lymperatou Dionysia , Giannopoulou Efstathia , Koutras Angelos K. , Kalofonos Haralabos P.
Published: July 2013

There is no doubt that there are increased benefits of hormonal therapy to breast cancer patients; however, current evidence suggests that estrogen receptor (ER) blockage using antiestrogens is associated with a small induction of invasivenessin vitro. The mechanism by which epithelial tumor cells escape from the primary tumor and colonize to a distant site is not entirely understood. This study investigates the effect of two selective antagonists of the ER, Fulvestrant (Fulv) and Tamoxifen (Tam), on the invasive ability of breast cancer cells. We found that 17β-estradiol (E2) demonstrated a protective role regarding cell migration and invasion. Fulv did not alter this effect while Tam stimulated active cell migration according to an increase in Snail and a decrease in E-cadherin protein expression. Furthermore, both tested agents increased expression of matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) and enhanced invasive potential of breast cancer cells. These changes were in line with focal adhesion kinase (FAK) rearrangement. Our data indicate that the anti-estrogens counteracted the protective role of E2concerning migration and invasion since their effect was not limited to antiproliferative events. Although Fulv caused a less aggressive result compared to Tam, the benefits of hormonal therapy concerning invasion and metastasis yet remain to be investigated.
A Mouse Model of Interstitial Pneumonitis Induced by Murine Cytomegalovirus Infection after Allogeneic Skin Transplantation
Authors: Ni Dequn , Yu Haiyang , Zhang Wei , Gan Lin , Zhao Jiqiang , Wang Mingli , Chen Jason
Published: July 2013

We investigated the effect of murine cytomegalovirus (MCMV) on interstitial pneumonia in transplant recipients in an experimental skin allograft model. Skin transplantation between C57BL/6J and BALB/c mice was performed in the presence or absence of cyclosporin A treatment. Flow cytometry showed that the number of CD4+and CD8+cells and the level of IFN-γdecreased significantly in the groups treated with cyclosporin A. We either mock-infected or infected the mice with MCMV by intranasal administration and monitored pathophysiological behavior and body weight. The infected mice were sacrificed at different days postinfection for histology, immunohistochemistry, and molecular biological evaluations. Interstitial pneumonitis was observed in positive control groups as well as in experimental group that received cyclosporin A, a skin transplant, and infected with the highest dose of virus (105PFU). Transmission electronic microscopy demonstrated the presence of herpes virus particles. MCMV DNA and glycoprotein B were demonstrated in the epithelial cells of the lung tissue in those animals byin situhybridization and immunohistochemistry, respectively. Our data demonstrated the establishment of a mouse model of interstitial pneumonitis via MCMV infection after allogeneic skin transplantation.
XPS‐Characterization of Heterometallic Coordination Compounds with Optically Active Ligands
Authors: Ávila-Torres Yenny , Huerta Lázaro , Barba-Behrens Noráh
Published: July 2013

The heterometallic optical complexes [Cu2Co(S,S(+)cpse)3(H2O)3]·4H2O (1) and [Cu2Ni(S,S(+)cpse)3(H2O)3]·10H2O (2) were obtained from the mononuclear copper(II) compound by the addition of nickel(II) or cobalt(II) chlorides, where (H2cpse) is the acetyl amino alcohol derivative N‐[2‐hydroxy‐1(R)‐methyl‐2(R)‐phenylethyl]‐N‐methylglycine. In comparison with the homotrinuclear copper(II) compound [Cu3(S,S(+)cpse)3(H2O)3]·8H2O reported previously, the substitution of a copper(II) atom by one cobalt(II) ion gave place to a heterotrinuclear compound 1, which presents ferromagnetic‐antiferromagnetic behaviour. When substituting a copper(II) by a nickel(II) ion, the trinuclear compound 2 showed an antiferromagnetic coupling. The magnetic behaviour of the heterotrinuclear compounds is driven by the nature of the metal ion which was introduced in the copper(II) triangular array. The ligand and its coordination compounds were characterized by IR, UV‐Vis‐NIR. Their chemical was confirmed by photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS).
Exact Explicit Solutions and Conservation Laws for a Coupled Zakharov-Kuznetsov System
Authors: Khalique Chaudry Masood
Published: July 2013

We study a coupled Zakharov-Kuznetsov system, which is an extension of a coupled Korteweg-de Vries system in the sense of the Zakharov-Kuznetsov equation. Firstly, we obtain some exact solutions of the coupled Zakharov-Kuznetsov system using the simplest equation method. Secondly, the conservation laws for the coupled Zakharov-Kuznetsov system will be constructed by using the multiplier approach.
The Special Role of Higher-Frequency Neighbors at the Phonological Level: An Event-Related Potential Study of Chinese Character Naming
Authors: Zhao Jing , Zhang John X. , Bi Hong-Yan
Published: July 2013

The present study explored the time course of neighborhood frequency effect at the early processing stages, examining whether orthographic neighbors with higher frequency exerted an influence on target processing especially at the phonological stage by using the event-related potential (ERP). Thirteen undergraduate students were recruited in this study, and they were required to covertly name Chinese characters with or without higher-frequency neighbors (HFNs); meanwhile, their brain activity was recorded. Results showed that the effect of neighborhood frequency was significant in frontocentral P2 amplitude, with a reduction for naming characters with HFNs compared to those without HFNs; while there was no effect in posterior N1 amplitude. The only neighborhood frequency effect in P2 component suggested a special role for the HFNs in phonological access of  Chinese characters. The decrease in amplitude for naming with-HFN characters might be associated with the phonological interference of higher-frequency neighbors due to their different pronunciations from the target characters.
Colonization of a Central Venous Catheter by the Hyaline FungusFusarium solaniSpecies Complex: A Case Report and SEM Imaging
Authors: Colombo Alberto , Maccari Giuseppe , Congiu Terenzio , Basso Petra , Baj Andreina , Toniolo Antonio
Published: July 2013

The incidence of opportunistic infections by filamentous fungi is increasing partly due to the widespread use of central venous catheters (CVC), indwelling medical devices, and antineoplastic/immunosuppressive drugs. The case of a 13-year-old boy under treatment for acute lymphoblastic leukemia is presented. The boy was readmitted to the Pediatric Ward for intermittent fever of unknown origin. Results of blood cultures drawn from peripheral venous sites or through the CVC were compared. CVC-derived bottles (but not those from peripheral veins) yielded hyaline fungi that, based on morphology, were identified as belonging to theFusarium solanispecies complex. Gene amplification and direct sequencing of the fungal ITS1 rRNA region and the EF-1alpha gene confirmed the isolate as belonging to theFusarium solanispecies complex. Portions of the CVC were analyzed by scanning electron microscopy. Fungi mycelia with long protruding hyphae were seen into the lumen. The firm adhesion of the fungal formation to the inner surface of the catheter was evident. In the absence of systemic infection, catheter removal and prophylactic voriconazole therapy were followed by disappearance of febrile events and recovery. Thus, indwelling catheters are prone to contamination by environmental fungi.
Dielectric Properties of PE/Clay Nanocomposites
Authors: David E. , Fréchette M. , Zazoum B. , Daran-Daneau C. , Ngô A. D. , Couderc H.
Published: July 2013

Polyethylene/nanoclay specimens containing from 0 to 5% nanoclays were prepared from a commercially available premixed PE/nanoclay masterbatch containing 50% wt of nanoclay. The masterbatch was diluted to the desired concentration by adding PE along with various amounts of compatibilizer in order to achieve the best possible dispersion of the nanoclay platelets. The dielectric response of the compounded samples was investigated using a combination of time and frequency‐domain spectroscopy in order to cover a wide frequency window. Both techniques were in good agreement when the time‐domain data was transformed into frequency‐domain data. Despite their low concentration, the addition of the dispersed nanoclays led to a significant alteration of the material dielectric response in the form of the appearance of various interfacial relaxation processes and an increase of charge carrier transport within the insulation material. Moreover, an onset of nonlinear charge transport process was observed at moderate fields for specimens containing a relatively low level of nanoclays. The high‐field breakdown strength was shown to have been improved by the incorporation of the nanoparticles, particularly when the exfoliation was enhanced by the use of a maleic anhydride grafted polyethylene compatibilizer.
Renal Protective Role of Xiexin Decoction with Multiple Active Ingredients Involves Inhibition of Inflammation through Downregulation of the Nuclear Factor-κB Pathway in Diabetic Rats
Authors: Wu Jia-sheng , Shi Rong , Zhong Jie , Lu Xiong , Ma Bing-liang , Wang Tian-ming , Zan Bin , Ma Yue-ming , Cheng Neng-neng , Qiu Fu-rong
Published: July 2013

In Chinese medicine, Xiexin decoction (XXD) has been used for the clinical treatment of diabetes for at least 1700 years. The present study was conducted to investigate the effective ingredients of XXD and their molecular mechanisms of antidiabetic nephropathy in rats. Rats with diabetes induced by high-fat diet and streptozotocin were treated with XXD extract for 12 weeks. XXD significantly improved the glucolipid metabolism disorder, attenuated albuminuria and renal pathological changes, reduced renal advanced glycation end-products, inhibited receptor for advanced glycation end-product and inflammation factors expression, suppressed renal nuclear factor-κB pathway activity, and downregulated renal transforming growth factor-β1. The concentrations of multiple components in plasma from XXD were determined by liquid chromatography and tandem mass spectrometry. Pharmacokinetic/pharmacodynamic analysis using partial least square regression revealed that 8 ingredients of XXD were responsible for renal protective effects via actions on multiple molecular targets. Our study suggests that the renal protective role of XXD with multiple effective ingredients involves inhibition of inflammation through downregulation of the nuclear factor-κB pathway, reducing renal advanced glycation end-products and receptor for advanced glycation end-product in diabetic rats.
High-Yield Soluble Expression and Simple Purification of the Antimicrobial Peptide OG2 Using the Intein System inEscherichia coli
Authors: Xie Yong-Gang , Han Fei-Fei , Luan Chao , Zhang Hai-Wen , Feng Jie , Choi Young-Jun , Groleau Denis , Wang Yi-Zhen
Published: July 2013

OG2 is a modified antimicrobial peptide, that is, derived from the frog peptide Palustrin-OG1. It has high antimicrobial activity and low cytotoxicity, and it is therefore promising as a therapeutic agent. Both prokaryotic (Escherichia coli) and eukaryotic (Pichia pastoris) production host systems were used to produce OG2 in our previous study; however, it was difficult to achieve high expression yields and efficient purification. In this study, we achieved high-yield OG2 expression using the intein fusion system. The optimized OG2 gene was cloned into the pTWIN1 vector to generate pTWIN-OG2-intein2 (C-terminal fusion vector) and pTWIN-intein1-OG2 (N-terminal fusion vector). Nearly 70% of the expressed OG2-intein2 was soluble after the IPTG concentration and induction temperature were decreased, whereas only 42% of the expressed of intein1-OG2 was soluble. Up to 75 mg of OG2-intein2 was obtained from a 1 l culture, and 85% of the protein was cleaved by 100 mM DTT. Intein1-OG2 was less amenable to cleavage due to the inhibition of cleavage by the N-terminal amino acid of OG2. The purified OG2 exhibited strong antimicrobial activity againstE. coliK88. The intein system is the best currently available system for the cost-effective production of OG2.
Interactions between Typhoon Choi-wan (2009) and the Kuroshio Extension System
Authors: Wada Akiyoshi , Usui Norihisa , Kunii Masaru
Published: July 2013

We investigated interactions between Typhoon Choi-wan (2009) and the Kuroshio Extension system with a coupled atmosphere-wave-ocean model in 14 numerical simulations performed with initial conditions obtained from daily oceanic reanalysis data for the northwestern Pacific Ocean from September 12 to September 25, 2009. Preexisting oceanic conditions affected the simulated central pressure and the inner-core axisymmetric structure of the simulated typhoon differently during the intensification, mature, and decaying phases, but they had little impact on the simulated track. Among the simulations, the simulated central pressure range during the mature phase was ~10 hPa. Simulated central pressure was highly correlated with the axisymmetric mean horizontal specific humidity flux between radii of 50 and 150 km and altitudes of 20 to ~2000 m, suggesting that this flux has potential as a new metric for predicting tropical cyclone intensity. Variations in preexisting oceanic conditions in the Kuroshio Extension region on the simulated atmospheric and oceanic horizontal fields affected the typhoon and a nearby stationary front differently. Around the stationary front, the impact on hourly precipitation was closely related to that on surface wind speed, whereas the impact on surface temperature was greatly affected by that on sea surface temperature through the latent heat flux.
Possible Involvement of TLRs and Hemichannels in Stress-Induced CNS Dysfunction via Mastocytes, and Glia Activation
Authors: Aguirre Adam , Maturana Carola J. , Harcha Paloma A. , Sáez Juan C.
Published: July 2013

In the central nervous system (CNS), mastocytes and glial cells (microglia, astrocytes and oligodendrocytes) function as sensors of neuroinflammatory conditions, responding to stress triggers or becoming sensitized to subsequent proinflammatory challenges. The corticotropin-releasing hormone and glucocorticoids are critical players in stress-induced mastocyte degranulation and potentiation of glial inflammatory responses, respectively. Mastocytes and glial cells express different toll-like receptor (TLR) family members, and their activation via proinflammatory molecules can increase the expression of connexin hemichannels and pannexin channels in glial cells. These membrane pores are oligohexamers of the corresponding protein subunits located in the cell surface. They allow ATP release and Ca2+influx, which are two important elements of inflammation. Consequently, activated microglia and astrocytes release ATP and glutamate, affecting myelinization, neuronal development, and survival. Binding of ligands to TLRs induces a cascade of intracellular events leading to activation of several transcription factors that regulate the expression of many genes involved in inflammation. During pregnancy, the previous responses promoted by viral infections and other proinflammatory conditions are common and might predispose the offspring to develop psychiatric disorders and neurological diseases. Such disorders could eventually be potentiated by stress and might be part of the etiopathogenesis of CNS dysfunctions including autism spectrum disorders and schizophrenia.
An Adaptive Cauchy Differential Evolution Algorithm for Global Numerical Optimization
Authors: Choi Tae Jong , Ahn Chang Wook , An Jinung
Published: July 2013

Adaptation of control parameters, such as scaling factor (F), crossover rate (CR), and population size
(NP), appropriately is one of the major problems of Differential Evolution (DE) literature. Well‐designed
adaptive or self‐adaptive parameter control method can highly improve the performance of DE. Although
there are many suggestions for adapting the control parameters, it is still a challenging task to properly adapt
the control parameters for problem. In this paper, we present an adaptive parameter control DE algorithm.
In the proposed algorithm, each individual has its own control parameters. The control parameters of each
individual are adapted based on the average parameter value of successfully evolved individuals’ parameter
values by using the Cauchy distribution. Through this, the control parameters of each individual are assigned
either near the average parameter value or far from that of the average parameter value which might be
better parameter value for next generation. The experimental results show that the proposed algorithm
is more robust than the standard DE algorithm and several state‐of‐the‐art adaptive DE algorithms in solving
various unimodal and multimodal problems.
Evaluation of an Adsorbent Based on Agricultural Waste (Corn Cobs) for Removal of Tyrosine and Phenylalanine from Aqueous Solutions
Authors: Alves Cibele C. O. , Franca Adriana S. , Oliveira Leandro S.
Published: July 2013

Adsorption of phenolic amino acids, such as phenylalanine and tyrosine, is quite relevant for the production of protein hydrolysates used as dietary formulations for patients suffering from congenital disorders of amino acid metabolism, such as phenylketonuria. In this study, an adsorbent prepared from corn cobs was evaluated for the removal of tyrosine (Tyr) from both a single component solution and a binary aqueous solution with phenylalanine (Phe). The adsorption behavior of tyrosine was similar to that of phenylalanine in single component solutions, however, with a much lower adsorption capacity (14 mg g−1for Tyr compared to 109 mg g−1for Phe). Tyr adsorption kinetics was satisfactorily described by a pseudosecond-order model as it was for Phe. In adsorption equilibrium studies for binary mixtures, the presence of Tyr in Phe solutions favored Phe faster adsorption whereas the opposite behavior was observed for the presence of Phe in Tyr solutions. Such results indicate that, in binary systems, Phe will be adsorbed preferably to Tyr, and this is a welcome feature when employing the prepared adsorbent for the removal of Phe from protein hydrolysates to be used in dietary formulations for phenylketonuria treatment.
Evaluation of Nonradiative Clinical Imaging Techniques for the Longitudinal Assessment of Tumour Growth in Murine CT26 Colon Carcinoma
Authors: Seguin Johanne , Doan Bich-Thuy , Latorre Ossa Heldmuth , Jugé Lauriane , Gennisson Jean-Luc , Tanter Mickaël , Scherman Daniel , Chabot Guy G. , Mignet Nathalie
Published: July 2013

Background and Objectives. To determine the most appropriate technique for tumour followup in experimental therapeutics, we compared ultrasound (US) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) to characterize ectopic and orthotopic colon carcinoma models. Methods. CT26 tumours were implanted subcutaneously (s.c.) in Balb/c mice for the ectopic model or into the caecum for the orthotopic model. Tumours were evaluated by histology, spectrofluorescence, MRI, and US. Results. Histology of CT26 tumour showed homogeneously dispersed cancer cells and blood vessels. The visualization of the vascular network using labelled albumin showed that CT26 tumours were highly vascularized and disorganized. MRI allowed high-resolution and accurate 3D tumour measurements and provided additional anatomical and functional information. Noninvasive US imaging allowed good delineation of tumours despite an hypoechogenic signal. Monitoring of tumour growth with US could be accomplished as early as 5 days after implantation with a shorter acquisition time (<5 min) compared to MRI. Conclusion. MRI and US afforded excellent noninvasive imaging techniques to accurately follow tumour growth of ectopic and orthotopic CT26 tumours. These two techniques can be appropriately used for tumour treatment followup, with a preference for US imaging, due to its short acquisition time and simplicity of use.
Smad2 and Myocardin-Related Transcription Factor B Cooperatively Regulate Vascular Smooth Muscle Differentiation From Neural Crest Cells
Authors: Xie Wei-Bing , Li Zuguo , Shi Ning , Guo Xia , Tang Junming , Ju Wenjun , Han Jun , Liu Tengfei , Bottinger Erwin P. , Chai Yang , Jose Pedro A. , Chen Shi-You
Published: July 2013

Rationale:

Vascular smooth muscle cell (VSMC) differentiation from neural crest cells (NCCs) is critical for cardiovascular development, but the mechanisms remain largely unknown.

Objective:

Transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β) function in VSMC differentiation from NCCs is controversial. Therefore, we determined the role and mechanism of a TGF-β downstream signaling intermediate Smad2 in NCC differentiation to VSMCs.

Methods and Results:

By using Cre/loxP system, we generated a NCC tissue–specific Smad2 knockout mouse model and found that Smad2 deletion resulted in defective NCC differentiation to VSMCs in aortic arch arteries during embryonic development and caused vessel wall abnormality in adult carotid arteries where the VSMCs are derived from NCCs. The abnormalities included 1 layer of VSMCs missing in the media of the arteries with distorted and thinner elastic lamina, leading to a thinner vessel wall compared with wild-type vessel. Mechanistically, Smad2 interacted with myocardin-related transcription factor B (MRTFB) to regulate VSMC marker gene expression. Smad2 was required for TGF-β–induced MRTFB nuclear translocation, whereas MRTFB enhanced Smad2 binding to VSMC marker promoter. Furthermore, we found that Smad2, but not Smad3, was a progenitor-specific transcription factor mediating TGF-β–induced VSMC differentiation from NCCs. Smad2 also seemed to be involved in determining the physiological differences between NCC-derived and mesoderm-derived VSMCs.

Conclusions:

Smad2 is an important factor in regulating progenitor-specific VSMC development and physiological differences between NCC-derived and mesoderm-derived VSMCs.
Direct Quantitative Assessment of the Peripheral Artery Collateral Circulation in Patients Undergoing Angiography
Authors: Traupe Tobias , Ortmann Jana , Stoller Michael , Baumgartner Iris , de Marchi Stefano F. , Seiler Christian
Published: July 2013

Background—

Despite the fact that numerous studies have pursued the strategy of improving collateral function in patients with peripheral artery disease, there is currently no method available to quantify collateral arterial function of the lower limb.

Methods and Results—

Pressure-derived collateral flow index (CFIp, calculated as (occlusive pressure−central venous pressure)/(aortic pressure−central venous pressure); pressure values in mm Hg) of the left superficial femoral artery was obtained in patients undergoing elective coronary angiography using a combined pressure/Doppler wire (n=30). Distal occlusive pressure and toe oxygen saturation (Sa
o
2
) were measured for 5 minutes under resting conditions, followed by an exercise protocol (repetitive plantar-flexion movements in supine position; n=28). In all patients, balloon occlusion of the superficial femoral artery over 5 minutes was painless under resting conditions. CFIp increased during the first 3 minutes from 0.451±0.168 to 0.551±0.172 (
P
=0.0003), whereas Sa
o
2
decreased from 98±2% to 93±7% (
P
=0.004). Maximal changes of Sa
o
2
were inversely related to maximal CFIp (
r
2
=0.33,
P
=0.003). During exercise, CFIp declined within 1 minute from 0.560±0.178 to 0.393±0.168 (
P
<0.0001) and reached its minimum after 2 minutes of exercise (0.347±0.176), whereas Sa
o
2
declined to a minimum of 86±6% (
P
=0.002). Twenty-five patients (89%) experienced pain or cramps/tired muscles, whereas 3 (11%) remained symptom-free for an occlusion time of 10 minutes. CFIp values were positively related to the pain-free time span (
r
2
=0.50,
P
=0.002).

Conclusions—

Quantitatively assessed collateral arterial function at rest determined in the nonstenotic superficial femoral artery is sufficient to prevent ischemic symptoms during a total occlusion of 5 minutes. During exercise, there is a decline in CFIp that indicates a supply-demand mismatch via collaterals or, alternatively, a steal phenomenon.

Clinical Trial Registration—URL:

http://www.clinicaltrials.gov
. Unique identifier: NCT01742455.
Preeclampsia Is Associated With the Presence of Transcriptionally Active Placental Fragments in the Maternal Lung
Authors: Buurma Aletta J. , Penning Marlies E. , Prins Frans , Schutte Joke M. , Bruijn Jan Anthonie , Wilhelmus Suzanne , Rajakumar Augustine , Bloemenkamp Kitty W.M. , Karumanchi S. Ananth , Baelde Hans J.
Published: July 2013

Preeclampsia is associated with increased levels of the circulating antiangiogenic factor sFlt-1 and with an excessive shedding of placenta-derived multinucleated syncytial aggregates into the maternal circulation. However, it remains unclear whether these aggregates are transcriptionally active in the maternal organs and can, therefore, contribute to the systemic manifestations of preeclampsia. In this study, we measured placental soluble fms-like tyrosine kinase-1 (sFlt-1) mRNA levels in preeclamptic- and control placentas and performed RNA in situ hybridization to localize the main placental expression site of sFlt-1 mRNA. Because the maternal lung is the first capillary bed that circulating syncytial aggregates traverse, we studied the presence and persistence of placental material in lungs of preeclamptic and control subjects. To confirm the placental origin of these aggregates in maternal lungs, immunohistochemistry for the placenta-specific marker hCG (human chorionic ghonadotropin) and Y chromosome in situ hybridization were performed. Using human placental tissue, we found that syncytial knots are the principal site of expression of the antiangiogenic factor sFlt-1. In addition, autopsy material obtained from women with preeclampsia (n=9) showed significantly more placenta-derived syncytial aggregates in the lungs than in control subjects (n=26). Importantly, these aggregates still contained the antiangiogenic factor sFlt-1 after their entrapment in the maternal lungs. The current study confirms the important role of syncytial knots in placental sFlt-1 mRNA production. In addition, it shows a significant association between preeclampsia and larger quantities of sFlt-1 containing syncytial aggregates in maternal lungs, suggesting that the transfer of syncytial aggregates to the maternal compartment may contribute to the systemic endothelial dysfunction that characterizes preeclampsia.
Loss of Apelin Exacerbates Myocardial Infarction Adverse Remodeling and Ischemia‐reperfusion Injury: Therapeutic Potential of Synthetic Apelin Analogues
Authors: Wang Wang , McKinnie Shaun M.K. , Patel Vaibhav B. , Haddad George , Wang Zuocheng , Zhabyeyev Pavel , Das Subhash K. , Basu Ratnadeep , McLean Brent , Kandalam Vijay , Penninger Josef M. , Kassiri Zamaneh , Vederas John C. , Murray Allan G. , Oudit Gavin Y.
Published: July 2013

Background

Coronary artery disease leading to myocardial ischemia is the most common cause of heart failure. Apelin (
APLN
), the endogenous peptide ligand of the
APJ
receptor, has emerged as a novel regulator of the cardiovascular system.

Methods and Results

Here we show a critical role of
APLN
in myocardial infarction (
MI
) and ischemia‐reperfusion (
IR
) injury in patients and animal models. Myocardial
APLN
levels were reduced in patients with ischemic heart failure. Loss of
APLN
increased
MI
‐related mortality, infarct size, and inflammation with drastic reductions in prosurvival pathways resulting in greater systolic dysfunction and heart failure.
APLN
deficiency decreased vascular sprouting, impaired sprouting of human endothelial progenitor cells, and compromised in vivo myocardial angiogenesis. Lack of
APLN
enhanced susceptibility to ischemic injury and compromised functional recovery following ex vivo and in vivo
IR
injury. We designed and synthesized two novel
APLN
analogues resistant to angiotensin converting enzyme 2 cleavage and identified one analogue, which mimicked the function of
APLN
, to be markedly protective against ex vivo and in vivo myocardial
IR
injury linked to greater activation of survival pathways and promotion of angiogenesis.

Conclusions

APLN
is a critical regulator of the myocardial response to infarction and ischemia and pharmacologically targeting this pathway is feasible and represents a new class of potential therapeutic agents.
Docosahexaenoic Acid Supplementation, Vascular Function and Risk Factors for Cardiovascular Disease: A Randomized Controlled Trial in Young Adults
Authors: Singhal Atul , Lanigan Julie , Storry Clare , Low Sarah , Birbara Toni , Lucas Alan , Deanfield John
Published: July 2013

Background

A high consumption of omega‐3 long‐chain polyunsaturated fatty acids, and particularly docosahexaenoic acid (
DHA
), has been suggested to reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease (
CVD
). However, while
DHA
supplementation may have benefits for secondary prevention, few studies have investigated the role of
DHA
in the primary prevention of
CVD
. Here, we tested the hypothesis that
DHA
supplementation improves endothelial function and risk factors for
CVD
.

Methods and Results

Healthy volunteers (n=328), aged 18 to 37 years, were randomly assigned to 1.6 g
DHA
/day (from a microalgae source) together with 2.4 g/day carrier oil (index group) or to 4.0 g/day olive oil (control) (both given in eight 500‐mg capsules/day for 16 weeks). Flow‐mediated endothelium‐dependent vasodilation (
FMD
) of the brachial artery (primary outcome) was measured before and after the intervention (n=268) using high‐resolution vascular ultrasound.
FMD
was the same in both groups at randomization (mean,
SD
; 0.27, 0.1 mm), but postintervention was higher in the control group (0.29, 0.1 mm) compared with the
DHA
‐supplemented group (0.26, 0.1 mm; mean difference −0.03 mm; 95%
CI
−0.005 to −0.06 mm;
P
=0.02). Of other outcomes, only triglyceride (mean difference −28%, 95%
CI
−40% to −15%;
P
<0.0001) and very low‐density lipoprotein concentrations were significant lower in
DHA
‐supplemented individuals compared with controls.

Conclusions

DHA
supplementation did not improve endothelial function in healthy, young adults. Nevertheless, lower triglyceride concentrations with
DHA
supplementation was consistent with previous reports and could have benefits for the prevention of
CVD
.

Clinical Trial Registration Information

URL:
http://www.controlled-trials.com/
Unique identifier:
ISRCTN
no: 19987575.
Light Perfume: A Fashion Accessory for Synchronization of Nonverbal Communication
Authors: Choi Yongsoon , Parsani Rahul , Pandey Anshul Vikram , Roman Xavier , Cheok Adrian David
Published: July 2013

People mirror each other's body language as a way of bonding, seeking acceptance and creating rapport. Light Perfume is an interactive wearable system designed in the shape of a bangle that helps the wearer mirror their partner through lighting and olfactory cues. During a conversation, the Light Perfume system on each person's wrist uses multiple inputs from the surrounding environment to generate a synchronized output expression. This consists of a color and blinking frequency of light along with a perfume fragrance that is stimulated simultaneously from each system. The Light Perfume system was designed to foster social interactions and make people feel more empathy towards each other.
Toward the Use of Chua's Circuit in Education, Art and Interdisciplinary Research: Some Implementation and Opportunities
Authors: Bertacchini Francesca , Bilotta Eleonora , Gabriele Lorella , Pantano Pietro , Tavernise Assunta
Published: July 2013

This paper considers the merging of Chaos with art, including such forms as digital images, sounds and music, based on dynamic systems derived from Chua's Circuit and using appropriate coding methods. Design elements, logos, musical instruments, software environments, multimedia theater performances and virtual museums with strange attractors have also been realized. In the field of education, the paper introduces environments that have foreseen the virtual manipulation of patterns derived from Chua's Circuit, which has fostered a deeper understanding of the evolution of dynamic systems through computer simulation.
Hypertext Revisited
Authors: Baetens Jan , Truyen Fred
Published: July 2013

This article proposes a new approach to literary hypertext, which foregrounds the notion of interrupting rather than that of linking. It also claims that, given the dialectic relationship of literature in print and digital-born literature, it may be useful to reread contemporary hypertext in light of a specific type of literature in print that equally foregrounds aspects of segmentation and discontinuity: serialized literature (i.e. texts published in installment form). Finally, it discusses the shift from spatial form to temporal form in postmodern writing as well as the basic difference between segment and fragment.
Give Me Gestalt! Preference for Cubist Artworks Revealing High Detectability of Objects
Authors: Muth Claudia , Pepperell Robert , Carbon Claus-Christian
Published: July 2013

In cubist paintings by Picasso, Braque and Gris it is possible to detect everyday objects like guitars, bottles or jugs, although they are often difficult to decipher. In this art-science collaborative study the authors found that participants without expertise in cubism appreciated cubist artworks more if they were able to detect concealed objects in them. The finding of this strong correlation between detectability and preference offers wide implications for art history and human cognition as it points to a mechanism that allows us to derive pleasure from searching for and finding meaningful patterns.
Mapping Interstitial Urban Spaces through Performing the City
Authors: Peng Chengzhi , Park Adam
Published: July 2013

The project investigates how public perception of interstitial urban spaces could be elicited and recorded through Performing the City - participatory ‘walkabout’ performance practices produced and staged for specific urban sites. Interstitial urban spaces are ‘forgotten’ underused spaces awaiting public re-imagination and interventions. Following an ethnographic study of the UK theatre company Slung Low's Mapping the City production in May 2011, the authors reflect on how the research propositions should be refined to better capture the transient transformative potential of spatial urban mapping through performing the city.
Five new species and new records of biting midges of the genus Dasyhelea Kieffer from the Near East (Diptera: Ceratopogonidae)
Authors: DOMINIAK PATRYCJA , ALWIN ALICJA
Published: July 2013

As a result of the entomological surveys in the Near East, seventeen species of biting midges of the genus Dasyhelea Ki-effer are reported. Five new species are described and illustrated from adult males: D. (Dicryptoscena) antonii sp. nov., D. (Pseudoculicoides) avia sp. nov., D. (Ps.) libanensis sp. nov., D. (Ps.) nauta sp. nov. and D. (Ps.) sandrageorgei sp. nov. Among the remaining species, four are recorded for the first time from this region. Furthermore, new country records for Iran (1 sp.), Israel (2 spp.), Lebanon (9 spp.) and Yemen (1 sp.) are given. Four species described by Kieffer in 1918, namely D. distalis, D. flaviscapula, D. scutellaris and D. trifasciata, are treated as doubtful names (nomina dubia) and excluded from the Turkish fauna. In addition, an updated checklist of Dasyhelea of the Near East is presented. Dasyhelea labinoda Mazumdar & Chaudhuri, 2009 is proposed as a new junior synonym of D. deemingi Boorman & Harten, 2002. New synonymy.
Ozone Loss and Recovery and the Preconditioning of Upward-Propagating Planetary Wave Activity
Authors: Albers John R. , Nathan Terrence R.
Published: July 2013

A mechanistic chemistry–dynamical model is used to evaluate the relative importance of radiative, photochemical, and dynamical feedbacks in communicating changes in lower-stratospheric ozone to the circulation of the stratosphere and lower mesosphere. Consistent with observations and past modeling studies of Northern Hemisphere late winter and early spring, high-latitude radiative cooling due to lower-stratospheric ozone depletion causes an increase in the modeled meridional temperature gradient, an increase in the strength of the polar vortex, and a decrease in vertical wave propagation in the lower stratosphere. Moreover, it is shown that, as planetary waves pass through the ozone loss region, dynamical feedbacks precondition the wave, causing a large increase in wave amplitude. The wave amplification causes an increase in planetary wave drag, an increase in residual circulation downwelling, and a weaker polar vortex in the upper stratosphere and lower mesosphere. The dynamical feedbacks responsible for the wave amplification are diagnosed using an ozone-modified refractive index; the results explain recent chemistry–coupled climate model simulations that suggest a link between ozone depletion and increased polar downwelling. The effects of future ozone recovery are also examined and the results provide guidance for researchers attempting to diagnose and predict how stratospheric climate will respond specifically to ozone loss and recovery versus other climate forcings including increasing greenhouse gas abundances and changing sea surface temperatures.