bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Diameter Dependent Doping of Single-Walled Carbon Nanotube Used as Electrical Double Layer Capacitor Electrode
Authors: Al-Zubaidi Ayar , Ishii Yosuke , Matsushita Tomohiro , Kawasaki Shinji
Published: May 2013

The present study investigated the carrier doping in relation to the size and surface characteristics of SWCNTs of different sizes and structures, used as electrical double layer capacitor electrodes, employing several different electrolytes (NaI, NaCl, NaBr, and TEMABF4). The results of the study showed that the electrode capacitance goes through an abrupt increase in the form of two step-like humps on both sides of the open-circuit potential, giving the cyclic voltammogram the shape of a dumbbell. This dumbbell shape was obtained regardless of the electrolyte utilized. However, the distance between the humps on the voltammogram seemed to inversely correlate with the diameter of the SWCNTs utilized as the capacitor electrode. The results show that the increase in capacitance is connected with the charge carrier doping that correlates with the electronic structure of the SWCNTs, which in turn depends on the diameter of the tube utilized as the electrode material.
Electrochemical Properties of Electrochemical Capacitors Using NiO Electrode
Authors: Chiku Masanobu , Toda Masanari , Higuchi Eiji , Tsai Chung Bo , Chen Po-Chou , Ho Wen-Hsien , Inoue Hiroshi
Published: May 2013

The NiO positive electrode active material was prepared on Ni foam and Ni mesh substrates by chemical bath deposition, and a hybrid capacitor (HC) composed of the NiO-loaded Ni foam or Ni mesh positive electrode and the activated carbon fiber cloth negative electrode was assembled. Both HCs had the maximum operating voltage of 1.6 V. The HC using the Ni foam substrate with heavier weight had higher surface area, lower charge-transfer resistance and higher rate capability, while the HC using the Ni mesh with lighter weight had higher specific energy and power density. The discharge capacitance at 100 mA (700 C-rate) for the HC with the Ni foam was ca. 30 F g-1 and was maintained even at 105th cycle.
Polyacrylonitrile and 1-Ethyl-3-Methylimidazolium Thiocyanate Based Gel Polymer Electrolyte for Solid-State Supercapacitors with Graphene Electrodes
Authors: Pandey G.P. , Rastogi A. C. , Westgate C. R.
Published: May 2013

A novel ionic liquid gel polymer electrolyte based on low viscosity ionic liquid 1-ethyl-3-methylimidazolium thiocyanate (EMImSCN) entrapped in polyacrylonitrile (PAN) has been prepared for its application as an electrolyte in supercapacitors. The gel polymer electrolyte shows high ionic conductivity of ~ 1 x 10-3 S cm-1 at room temperature. The solid-state supercapacitors have been fabricated with graphene electrodes and gel polymer electrolyte films. The performance characteristics have been studied by ac impedance spectroscopy, cyclic voltammetry, and galvanostatic charge-discharge techniques. The maximum overall cell capacitance value is observed to be 144 mF cm-2 which is equivalent to a single graphene electrode specific capacitance of 137 F g-1. The solid-state supercapacitor cell shows specific energy of ~4.7 W h kg-1 and specific power of ~4.1 kW kg-1. The gel polymer electrolyte based supercapacitor cell shows excellent cyclic performances for more than 2000 cycles.
Novel NaClO4 and NaPF6 Based Non-Aqueous Electrolytes for Electrical Double Layer Capacitor Application
Authors: Laheäär Ann , Jänes Alar , Lust Enn
Published: May 2013

Novel non-aqueous electrolytes – 1 M NaClO4 and 1 M NaPF6 solutions in ethylene carbonate/dimethyl carbonate solvent mixture – were studied for the application in electrical double layer capacitors (EDLCs) with carbide-derived carbon electrodes. Electrochemical characteristics – region of ideal polarizability, values of series capacitance, high-frequency resistance, time constants, etc. were analysed by applying cyclic voltammetry, impedance spectroscopy and constant current charge/discharge methods both in two- and three-electrode test cells. Based on calculated specific energy and power values and other data obtained, Na-salts based EDLC test cells have similar electrochemical behavior compared to LiPF6 and LiClO4 based systems (studied earlier). Na intercalation/chemical bounding to electrode surface was verified by XPS analysis. Despite the moderate cycle life of Na-salts based EDLCs, these electrolytes are an interesting option for high power/energy devices.
Surface Characterization of Supercapacitor Electrodes after Long-Lasting Constant Current Tests
Authors: Jänes Alar , Eskusson Jaanus , Kanarbik Rait , Lust Enn
Published: May 2013

TOF-SIMS, FIB-SEM, XPS and electrochemical methods have been used for the characterization of physical properties and chemical composition of microporous carbide derived carbon electrodes, prepared from TiC at 950 ºC (noted as TiC-CDC) after 40000 charge/discharge cycles. Some changes in surface chemical composition of TiC-CDC electrodes and Al current collectors has been established including partial dissolution of Al from positively charged electrode and deposition of Al onto the negatively charged TiC-CDC electrode surface. The values of gravimetric energy (taking into consideration the active TiC-CDC material weight only) calculated before and after constant current charge/discharge cycling tests at cell voltage 3.4 V were quite similar (35 and 34 W h kg-1, respectively). At starting moment the gravimetric power was practically 1.4 times higher (195 kW kg-1, 146 kW dm-3) than that calculated after 40000 charge/discharge cycles (144 kW kg-1, 104 kW dm-3). The characteristic relaxation time constant (0.94 and 1.23 s, respectively) increases somewhat in accordance with the decrease of power density during long-lasting cycling at higher cell voltage range from 0.2 to 3.4 V.
Testing of MnO2 Aqueous Hybrid Supercapacitors under Extreme Climatic Conditions
Authors: Roberts Alexander John , Slade Robert C. T.
Published: May 2013

Hybrid birnessite/carbon supercapacitor cells have been used to investigate the effect of the addition of ethylene glycol to aqueous neutral electrolytes on low temperature performance. The addition of progressively more ethylene glycol to the electrolyte resulted in a decrease in observed specific capacitance but enabled the operation of these predominantly aqueous systems at temperatures as low as -30oC. At such low temperatures, specific capacitance of around 25 F g-1 was observed with excellent cycling behavior. At lower levels of ethylene glycol and low temperatures, the electrolyte was found to freeze, with large increases in charge transfer and Warburg resistances (as measured by EIS) resulting in the failure of the cells to cycle.
Measuring Cr Volatility from Ferritic Stainless Steels: Novel and Conventional Methods Compared
Authors: Eziashi Jude Jideofor , Key Camas , Smith Richard , Amendola Roberta , Gannon Paul E. , Froitzheim Jan
Published: May 2013

Reactive evaporation of Cr-species from ferritic stainless steels is a technical challenge for solid oxide fuel cell (SOFC) systems and other devices operating in high-temperature (>500°C) oxidizing environments. A traditional method for quantitatively measuring Cr volatility is by using a transpiration system, in which oxidizing gases are flown by Cr-containing materials and the exhaust is condensed and subsequently analyzed using ICP-MS. While this method is well established and accurate, it also has limited sensitivity and challenges associated with sample collection. Novel methods have recently been developed to quickly and accurately evaluate and quantify low levels of Cr volatility. These include the denuder technique, which employs a water-soluble reactive collection and optical analysis; a cold quartz wool collection method with ICP-MS; a cold Si-wafer collection with ion-beam analysis; an ionic conductivity measurement of condensed exhaust solution; and, a simple staining method. Each method has advantages and disadvantages in terms of cost, operation, sensitivity and accuracy. In this poster, Cr volatility measurement techniques will be presented and compared in the context of facilitating new and ongoing research efforts.
Intragranular Nanocomposites Via Internal Reduction of Carbide Solid Solutions
Authors: Lipke David William , Sandhage Kenneth H.
Published: May 2013

A reaction-based processing technique to synthesize intragranular-metal/carbide-matrix micro/nanocomposite particles via internal reduction of carbide solid solutions is introduced. The presented method is the first-demonstrated analogue of internal reduction in oxide solid solutions for non-oxide-based ceramic systems. Selected thermodynamic, kinetic, and crystallographic analyses are discussed.
Lumen LPS inhibits HCO3−absorption in the medullary thick ascending limb through TLR4-PI3K-Akt-mTOR-dependent inhibition of basolateral Na+/H+exchange
Authors: Watts Bruns A. , George Thampi , Good David W.
Published: May 2013

Sepsis and endotoxemia induce defects in renal tubule function, but the mechanisms are poorly understood. Recently, we demonstrated that lipopolysaccharide (LPS) inhibits HCO3−absorption in the medullary thick ascending limb (MTAL) through activation of different Toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4) signaling pathways in the basolateral and apical membranes. Basolateral LPS inhibits HCO3−absorption through ERK-dependent inhibition of the apical Na+/H+exchanger NHE3. Here, we examined the mechanisms of inhibition by lumen LPS. Adding LPS to the lumen decreased HCO3−absorption by 29% in rat and mouse MTALs perfused in vitro. Inhibitors of phosphoinositide 3-kinase (PI3K) or its effectors Akt and mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) eliminated inhibition of HCO3−absorption by lumen LPS but had no effect on inhibition by bath LPS. Exposure to LPS for 15 min induced increases in phosphorylation of Akt and mTOR in microdissected MTALs that were blocked by wortmannin, consistent with activation of Akt and mTOR downstream of PI3K. The effects of lumen LPS to activate Akt and inhibit HCO3−absorption were eliminated in MTALs from TLR4−/−and MyD88−/−mice but preserved in tubules lacking Trif or CD14. Inhibition of HCO3−absorption by lumen LPS was eliminated under conditions that inhibit basolateral Na+/H+exchange and prevent inhibition of HCO3−absorption mediated through NHE1. Lumen LPS decreased basolateral Na+/H+exchange activity through PI3K. We conclude that lumen LPS inhibits HCO3−absorption in the MTAL through TLR4/MyD88-dependent activation of a PI3K-Akt-mTOR pathway coupled to inhibition of NHE1. Molecular components of the TLR4-PI3K-mTOR pathway represent potential therapeutic targets for sepsis-induced renal tubule dysfunction.
The calcimimetic R-568 prevents podocyte loss in uninephrectomized ApoE−/−mice
Authors: Gut Nadezda , Piecha Grzegorz , Pradel Antje , Geldyyev Aman , Potemkina Alexandra , Ritz Eberhard , Regele Heinz , Schmitt Claus-Peter , Gross-Weissmann Marie-Luise
Published: May 2013

Calcimimetics are indicated for secondary hyperparathyroidism in chronic kidney disease, and some data have suggested their protective role for progression of renal damage. We aimed to evaluate whether a calcimimetic can slow the progression of kidney damage in uninephrectomized apolipoprotein E (ApoE)-deficient (ApoE−/−) mice. To this end, we compared its effect with that of calcitriol. Male ApoE−/−mice (12 wk old) were randomized to undergo sham operation (sham) or unilateral nephrectomy (UNX) and subsequently received the calcimimetic R-568 (4 μg·kg−1·day−1), calcitriol (0.03 μg·kg−1·day−1), or vehicle intraperitoneally. Glomerular number and volume, damage indexes (glomerular, vascular, and interstitial), and glomerular (podocytes, mesangial, and endothelial) cell number and volume were assessed in perfused kidneys after a 12-wk treatment period. Lower numbers of podocytes per glomerulus were observed in the UNX + vehicle group compared with the sham group, and this was prevented in the UNX + R-568 group but not in the UNX + calcitriol group. In parallel, albuminuria was higher in the untreated UNX group compared with the sham group, and the increase was prevented in the UNX + R-568 group. Interstitial fibrosis was more prevalent in the vehicle-treated UNX group compared with the sham group, and this was prevented in the UNX group treated with R-568 and less effectively with calcitriol treatment. In all UNX groups, the weight of the residual kidney was significantly higher compared with all sham groups. No differences were observed in serum ionized calcium and systolic blood pressure between the groups. The calcimimetic R-568 prevented interstial fibrosis and podocyte loss after uninephrectomy in ApoE−/−mice. Minor renal dysfunction, lack of secondary hyperparathyroidism, and hypertension in this model support the hypothesis of direct effects of this compound on glomerular cells.
Simultaneous encoding of the direction and orientation of potential targets during reach planning: evidence of multiple competing reach plans
Authors: Stewart Brandie M. , Baugh Lee A. , Gallivan Jason P. , Flanagan J. Randall
Published: May 2013

Reaches performed in many natural situations involve selecting a specific target from a number of alternatives. Recent studies show that before reaching, multiple potential reach targets are encoded in brain regions involved in action control and that, when people are required to initiate the reach before the target is specified, initial hand direction is biased by the spatial distribution of potential targets. These findings have led to the suggestion that the brain, during planning, simultaneously prepares multiple reaches to potential targets. In addition to hand direction, reach planning often involves specifying other parameters such as wrist orientation. For example, when posting a letter in a mail slot, both the location and orientation of the slot must be encoded to control hand direction and orientation. Therefore, if the brain prepares multiple reaches to potential targets and if these targets require the specification of hand direction and orientation, then both of these variables should be biased by the spatial distribution of potential targets. To test this prediction, we examined a task in which participants moved a hand-held rectangular tool toward multiple rectangular targets of varying location and orientation, one of which was selected, with equal probability as the actual target after movement initiation. We found that initial hand direction and orientation were biased by the spatial distributions of potential target locations and orientations, respectively. This result is consistent with the idea that the brain, in cases of target uncertainty, simultaneously plans fully specified reaching movements to all potential targets.
A Case of Combined Septic and Obstructive Shock: Usefulness of Bedside Integrated Cardiothoracic Emergency Ultrasonography
Authors: Zanobetti Maurizio , De Villa Eleonora , Lazzeretti Delia , Conti Alberto , Pini Riccardo
Published: May 2013

A 59-year-old woman presented at the emergency department with cough and weakness that started a few days before. She had a history of breast cancer treated with mastectomy with negative followup. Physical examination revealed tachycardia and tachypnea, normal blood pressure, lower lobe crackles bilaterally, and jugular venous distention. Laboratory data underlined neutrophilic leukocytosis, mild renal failure, and high procalcitonin. Chest radiography revealed bilateral nodular lesions, presumably secondary. Patient was treated with fluid therapy and broad-spectrum antibiotic therapy because of suspected sepsis. In clinical revaluation patient showed systolic hypotension unresponsive to fluid resuscitation. Because of suspected pulmonary embolism an echocardiography was performed revealing normal dimensions of right ventricle with presence of a hypoechoic mass involving tricuspid annulus and obstructing the opening of anterior tricuspid flap; inferior vena cava appeared dilated and not collapsible. Subsequently, chest ultrasonography was performed, confirming multiple rounded lesions involving the pleura bilaterally, compatible with metastasis, and absence of interstitial syndrome. Finally a computed tomography scan of chest excluded pulmonary embolism and confirmed the presence of the obstructive mass responsible for hemodynamic instability together with pulmonary sepsis.
Optic Disc Pit with Sectorial Retinitis Pigmentosa
Authors: Balikoglu-Yilmaz Melike , Taskapili Muhittin , Yilmaz Tolga , Teke Mehmet Yasin
Published: May 2013

Sectorial retinitis pigmentosa (RP) and optic disc pit (ODP) are rare clinical conditions. We present a 40-year-old woman with a history of mild night blindness and decreased vision in the right eye for about 5 years. Fundus examination revealed retinal pigmentary changes in the superior and inferotemporal sectors covering the macula and reduced arterial calibre and ODP at the temporal edge of the optic disc. In addition, fundus autofluorescence, spectral-domain optical coherence tomography, fluorescein angiography, and multifocal electroretinogram scans confirmed these clinical findings. Visual acuity was decreased due to an atrophic-appearing foveal lesion. No intervention was suggested because of the poor visual potential. To the best of our knowledge, the present study is the first to describe coexistent optic disc pit and sectorial RP in the superior and inferotemporal sectors covering the macula in the same eye with figures.
Role of Imaging in the Diagnosis and Management of Complete Androgen Insensitivity Syndrome in Adults
Authors: Nezzo Marco , De Visschere Pieter , T'Sjoen Guy , Weyers Steven , Villeirs Geert
Published: May 2013

Complete androgen insensitivity syndrome is an X-linked recessive androgen receptor disorder characterized by a female phenotype with an XY karyotype. Individuals affected by this syndrome have normal female external genitalia but agenesis of the Müllerian duct derivatives, that is, absence of the Fallopian tubes, uterus, cervix, and the proximal part of the vagina, with presence of endoabdominal, labial, or inguinal testes. The estimated prevalence is between 1 and 5 in 100,000 genetic males. Complete androgen insensitivity syndrome can be diagnosed as a result of mismatch between the prenatal sex prediction and the phenotype at birth, can be detected by chance, or remain undetected until investigations for primary amenorrhea. Imaging can be important both to diagnose the pathology and to localize gonads prior to surgical treatment. In this paper, we present three cases of complete androgen insensitivity syndrome in adult women of 34, 22, and 38 years old.
Intercalary Reconstructions with Vascularised Fibula and Allograft after Tumour Resection in the Lower Limb
Authors: Rabitsch Katharina , Maurer-Ertl Werner , Pirker-Frühauf Ulrike , Wibmer Christine , Leithner Andreas
Published: May 2013

Reconstruction with massive bone allograft and autologous vascularised fibula combines the structural strength of the allograft and the advantages of fibula’s intrinsic blood supply. We retrospectively analysed the outcome of twelve patients (4 male, 8 female) who received reconstruction with massive bone allograft and autologous vascularised fibula after tumour resection in lower limb. Mean age was 17.8 years (range 11–31 years), with following primaries: Ewing’s sarcoma (n=6), osteosarcoma (n=4), liposarcoma grade 2 (n=1), and adamantinoma (n=1). Mean followup was 38.7 months (median 25.7 months; range 2–88 months). Seven tumours were located in the femur and five in the tibia. The mean length of bone defect was 18.7 cm (range 15–25 cm). None of the grafts had to be removed, but there occurred four fractures, four nonunions, and two infections. Two patients developed donor side complication, in form of flexion deformity of the big toe. The event-free survival rate was 51% at two-year followup and 39% at three- and five-year followup. As the complications were manageable, and full weight bearing was achieved in all cases, we consider the combination of massive bone allograft and autologous vascularised fibula a stable and durable reconstruction method of the diaphysis of the lower limbs.
Diesel Internal Combustion Engine Emissions Measurements for Methanol-Based and Ethanol-Based Biodiesel Blends
Authors: Chasos Charalambos A. , Karagiorgis George N. , Christodoulou Chris N.
Published: May 2013

There is a recent interest for the utilisation of renewable and alternative fuel, which is regulated by the European Union, that currently imposes a lower limit of 7% by volume of biodiesel fuel blend in diesel fuel. The biodiesel physical characteristics, as well as the percentage of biodiesel blend in diesel fuel, affect the injector nozzle flow, the spray characteristics, the resulting air/fuel mixture, and subsequently the combustion quality and emissions, as well as the overall engine performance. In the present study, two different types of pure biodiesel fuel, namely, methanol-based biodiesel and ethanol-based biodiesel, were produced in the laboratory of Frederick University by chemical processing of raw materials. The two biodiesel fuels were used for blending pure diesel fuel at various percentages. The blends were used for smoke emissions measurements of a diesel internal combustion engine at increasing engine speed and for increasing engine temperatures. From the experimental investigations it was found that ethanol-based biodiesel blends result in higher smoke emissions than pure diesel fuel, while methanol-based biodiesel blends smoke emissions are lower compared to pure diesel fuel.
Prepapillary Vascular Loop Associated with Persistent Hyperplastic Primary Vitreous
Authors: Makino Shinji , Ohkubo Yuko , Tampo Hironobu
Published: May 2013

A 66-year-old woman was referred for evaluation of retinal vessel abnormality. She had no visual symptoms. The anterior segment showed a retrolental opacity in her right eye. Fundus examination showed a bilateral prepapillary vascular loop associated with PHPV in her right eye. Prepapillary vascular loops were present in both eyes, although they were much more prominent in the right eye. To our knowledge, there are no reports of prepapillary vascular loops associated with PHPV.
Dietaryω-3 Polyunsaturated Fatty Acid DHA: A Potential Adjuvant in the Treatment of Cancer
Authors: Merendino Nicolò , Costantini Lara , Manzi Laura , Molinari Romina , D'Eliseo Donatella , Velotti Francesca
Published: May 2013

ω-3 Polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs), mainly present in fish oil, are part of the human diet. Among PUFAs, docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) has received particular attention for its anti-inflammatory, antiproliferative, proapoptotic, antiangiogenetic, anti-invasion, and antimetastatic properties. These data suggest that DHA can exert antitumor activity potentially representing an effective adjuvant in cancer chemotherapy. This review is focused on current knowledge supporting the potential use of DHA for the enhancement of the efficacy of anticancer treatments in relation to its ability to enhance the uptake of anticancer drugs, regulate the oxidative status of tumor cells, and inhibit tumor cell invasion and metastasis.
Building Spinal and Brain Commissures: Axon Guidance at the Midline
Authors: Castellani Valérie
Published: May 2013

Commissural circuits are brain and spinal cord connections which interconnect the two sides of the central nervous system (CNS). They play essential roles in brain and spinal cord processing, ensuring left-right coordination and synchronization of information and commands. During the formation of neuronal circuits, all commissural neurons of the central nervous system must accomplish a common task, which is to project their axon onto the other side of the nervous system, across the midline that delineates the two halves of the CNS. How this task is accomplished has been the topic of extensive studies over the last past 20 years and remains one of the best models to investigate axon guidance mechanisms. In the first part of this review, I will introduce the commissural circuits, their general role in the physiology of the nervous system, and their recognized or suspected pathogenic properties in human diseases. In the second part of the review, I will concentrate on two commissural circuits, the spinal commissures and the corpus callosum, to detail the cellular and molecular mechanisms governing their formation, mostly during their navigation at the midline.
Malaria in Tunisian Military Personnel after Returning from External Operation
Authors: Ajili Faïda , Battikh Riadh , Laabidi Janet , Abid Rim , Bousetta Najeh , Jemli Bouthaina , Ben abdelhafidh Nadia , Bassem Louzir , Gargouri Saadia , Othmani Salah
Published: May 2013

Introduction. Malaria had been eliminated in Tunisia since 1979, but there are currently 40 to 50 imported cases annually. Soldiers are no exception as the incidence of imported malaria is increasing in Tunisian military personnel after returning from malaria-endemic area, often in Sub-Saharan Africa. Methods. We retrospectively analyzed the clinical and biological presentations, treatment, and outcomes of 37 Tunisian military personnel hospitalized at the Department of Internal Medicine, the Military Hospital of Tunis, between January 1993 and January 2011, for imported malaria. The clinical and laboratory features were obtained from the medical records and a questionnaire was filled by the patients about the compliance of malaria prophylaxis. Results. Thirty-seven male patients, with a mean age of 41 years, were treated for malaria infection. Twenty-two were due to Plasmodium falciparum. The outcome was favourable for all patients, despite two severe access. The long-term use of chemoprophylaxis has been adopted by only 21 (51%) of expatriate military for daily stresses. Moreover, poor adherence was found in 32 patients. Conclusion. The risk of acquiring malaria infection in Tunisian military personnel can largely be prevented by the regular use of chemoprophylactic drugs combined with protective measures against mosquito bites.
Passive Repetitive Stretching for a Short Duration within a Week Increases Myogenic Regulatory Factors and Myosin Heavy Chain mRNA in Rats′ Skeletal Muscles
Authors: Kamikawa Yurie , Ikeda Satoshi , Harada Katsuhiro , Ohwatashi Akihiko , Yoshida Akira
Published: May 2013

Stretching is a stimulation of muscle growth. Stretching for hours or days has an effect on muscle hypertrophy. However, differences of continuous stretching and repetitive stretching to affect muscle growth are not well known. To clarify the difference of continuous and repetitive stretching within a short duration, we investigated the gene expression of muscle‐related genes on stretched skeletal muscles.
We used 8‐week‐old male Wistar rats (N = 28) for this study. Animals medial gastrocnemius muscle was stretched continuously or repetitively for 15 min daily and 4 times/week under anesthesia. After stretching, muscles were removed and total RNA was extracted. Then, reverse transcriptional quantitative real‐time PCR was done to evaluate the mRNA expression of MyoD, myogenin, and embryonic myosin heavy chain (MyHC). Muscles, either stretched continuously or repetitively, increased mRNA expression of MyoD, myogenin, and embryonic MyHC more than unstretched muscles. Notably, repetitive stretching resulted in more substantial effects on embryonic MyHC gene expression than continuous stretching. In conclusion, passive stretching for a short duration within a week is effective in increasing myogenic factor expression, and repetitive stretching had more effects than continuous stretching for skeletal muscle on muscle growth. These findings are applicable in clinical muscle‐strengthening therapy.
A Measure of Capacity Contribution of Static Mono-Si Photovoltaic Systems
Authors: Varnavas Constantinos , Poullikkas Andreas
Published: May 2013

Photovoltaic (PV) systems generate electricity in the daytime when system demand is generally moderate to high. For Mediterranean countries, there is also seasonal coincidence of high system demand and high PV load factors. The present study quantifies the above statements by calculating the load factor of the PV system when system demand is high (above 90–99% of the maximum demand of the month). The percentage of time the PV load factor is above 90% for these periods of maximum demand is evaluated. The PV load capacity contribution is defined in this study as the minimum PV load factor during these periods of high demand. Actual generation data from a static (without tracking) mono-Si PV system, recorded every half hour for the year 2010 are compared to system demand data. The seasonality analysis indicates that PV contribution to capacity is only significant during the months May–October. For the months November–April, when daily demand peak occurs during the evening, PVs do not contribute towards capacity. The evaluated capacity contribution of PV systems depends on the threshold of maximum demand considered (90%–99%). For the threshold of 95%, the capacity contribution for May–October ranges between 27%–41% of PV installed capacity.
AP1 Transcription Factors in Epidermal Differentiation and Skin Cancer
Authors: Eckert Richard L. , Adhikary Gautam , Young Christina A. , Jans Ralph , Crish James F. , Xu Wen , Rorke Ellen A.
Published: May 2013

AP1 (jun/fos) transcription factors (c-jun, junB, junD, c-fos, FosB, Fra-1, and Fra-2) are key regulators of epidermal keratinocyte survival and differentiation and important drivers of cancer development. Understanding the role of these factors in epidermis is complicated by the fact that each protein is expressed, at different levels, in multiple cells layers in differentiating epidermis, and because AP1 transcription factors regulate competing processes (i.e., proliferation, apoptosis, and differentiation). Variousin vivogenetic approaches have been used to study these proteins including targeted and conditional knockdown, overexpression, and expression of dominant-negative inactivating AP1 transcription factors in epidermis. Taken together, these studies suggest that individual AP1 transcription factors have different functions in the epidermis and in cancer development and that altering AP1 transcription factor function in the basal versus suprabasal layers differentially influences the epidermal differentiation response and disease and cancer development.
Extrusion Conditions and Amylose Content Affect Physicochemical Properties of Extrudates Obtained from Brown Rice Grains
Authors: González Rolando José , Pastor Cavada Elena , Vioque Peña Javier , Torres Roberto Luis , De Greef Dardo Mario , Drago Silvina Rosa
Published: May 2013

The utilization of whole grains in food formulations is nowadays recommended. Extrusion cooking allows obtaining precooked cereal products and a wide range of ready-to-eat foods. Two rice varieties having different amylose content (Fortuna 16% and Paso 144, 27%) were extruded using a Brabender single screw extruder. Factorial experimental design was used to study the effects of extrusion temperature (160, 175, and 190°C) and grits moisture content (14%, 16.5%, and 19%) on extrudate properties. Specific mechanical energy consumption (SMEC), radial expansion (E), specific volume (SV), water absorption (WA), and solubility (S) were determined on each extrudate sample. In general, Fortuna variety showed higher values of SMEC andS(703–409 versus 637–407 J/g; 33.0–21.0 versus 20.1–11.0%, resp.) than those of Paso 144; on the contrary SV (8.64–3.47 versus 8.27–4.53 mL/g) and WA tended to be lower (7.7–5.1 versus 8.4–6.6 mL/g). Both varieties showed similar values of expansion rate (3.60–2.18). Physical characteristics depended on extrusion conditions and rice variety used. The degree of cooking reached by Paso rice samples was lower than that obtained for Fortuna. It is suggested that the presence of germ and bran interfered with the cooking process, decreasing friction level and broadening residence time distribution.
Retinal Microvascular Abnormalities in Neurofibromatosis Type 1 Associated with Congenital Retinal Macrovessels
Authors: Makino Shinji , Endoh Katsuhisa , Tampo Hironobu
Published: May 2013

Here, we report a case of retinal microvascular abnormalities in a patient with neurofibromatosis type 1 (NF1) associated with congenital retinal macrovessels. An abnormal retinal macrovessel, crossing the macula horizontally, was detected in the right eye. Additionally, retinal microvascular abnormalities were detected. Eight years after the initial visit, the retinal microvascular abnormalities were noted to have changed substantially. We speculate that retinal microvascular abnormalities in NF1 may change dynamically over the years.
Transitional Cell Carcinoma within a Portion of Inguinally Herniated Bladder
Authors: Uhlman Matthew A. , Bockholt Nathan A. , Gupta Amit
Published: May 2013

Bladder herniation within the inguinal canal is a relatively uncommon finding. We report an even less-common occurrence of transitional cell carcinoma located within a portion of inguinally herniated bladder. Fewer than 20 reports exist in the literature describing this scenario.
Ectomycorrhizal Influence on Particle Size, Surface Structure, Mineral Crystallinity, Functional Groups, and Elemental Composition of Soil Colloids from Different Soil Origins
Authors: Li Yanhong , Wang Huimei , Wang Wenjie , Yang Lei , Zu Yuangang
Published: May 2013

Limited data are available on the ectomycorrhizae‐induced changes in surface structure and composition of soil colloids, the most active portion in soil matrix, although such data may benefit the understanding of mycorrhizal‐aided soil improvements. By using ectomycorrhizae (Gomphidius viscidus) and soil colloids from dark brown forest soil (a good loam) and saline‐alkali soil (heavily degraded soil), we tried to approach the changes here. For the good loam either from the surface or deep soils, the fungus treatment induced physical absorption of covering materials on colloid surface with nonsignificant increases in soil particle size (P > 0.05). These increased the amount of variable functional groups (O–H stretching and bending, C–H stretching, C=O stretching, etc.) by 3–26% and the crystallinity of variable soil minerals (kaolinite, hydromica, and quartz) by 40–300%. However, the fungus treatment of saline‐alkali soil obviously differed from the dark brown forest soil. There were 12–35% decreases in most functional groups, 15–55% decreases in crystallinity of most soil minerals but general increases in their grain size, and significant increases in soil particle size (P < 0.05). These different responses sharply decreased element ratios (C : O, C : N, and C : Si) in soil colloids from saline‐alkali soil, moving them close to those of the good loam of dark brown forest soil.
Clinical Finding and Thyroid Function in Women with Struma Ovarii
Authors: Hosseini Ali , Moeini Aida
Published: May 2013

Background. Struma ovarii (SO) is a variant of dermoid tumors which completely or mainly composed of thyroid tissues. Objective. We report our experience in the diagnosis and thyroid function of patients with SO in our hospital and also review the management and treatment option of this tumor. Materials and Methods. Between 2000 and 2012, 15 consecutive females with SO who were presented to our hospital were fully assessed. All women had histologically confirmed struma ovarii. The medical records of all patients including presenting symptoms, CT scan finding, and hormonal levels were collected for final analysis. Results. Average patient age was 36.6 years (ranging from 21 to 69). The mean ± SDs of serum TSH, T4, and T3 were  mUI/mL,  ng/dL, and  ng/dL, respectively. The value of TSH was lower than normal value in 26.7%. Also, antithyroglobulin and anti-TPO were positive in 2 and one cases, respectively. Conclusion. Based on our data, it is more likely to see a disturbance in serum values of thyroid function test in women with SO.
Uterine Rotation: A Cause of Intestinal Obstruction
Authors: González-Mesa Ernesto , Narbona Isidoro , Cohen Isaac , Villegas Emilia , Cuenca Celia
Published: May 2013

Intestinal obstruction is an uncommon surgical emergency during pregnancy that affects seriously the prognosis of gestation. The underlying cause can be identified in the majority of cases and usually consists of adhesions secondary to previous abdominal or pelvic surgery, followed in order of frequency by intestinal volvuli. In recent years there have been no reports in which the gravid uterus has been the cause of intestinal obstruction. We report the case of a woman in week 33 + 4 of pregnancy who developed extrinsic compression of the colon secondary to uterine rotation and pelvic impaction of the head of the fetus.
Eosinophilic Granuloma Involving the Femoral Neck
Authors: Krishnan Hoari , Yoon Taek Rim , Park Kyung Soon , Yeo Je Hyoung
Published: May 2013

We present a very rare case of eosinophilic granuloma involving the neck of femur in a 17-year-old male. The patient was treated with curettage and autologous iliac crest bone grafting with prophylactic screw fixation, and the diagnosis was confirmed by histopathological examination. Currently, it has been 14 years since the first surgery and the patient is well with no recurrence or relapse, and the osteolytic lesion has disappeared.
Semi-Active Pulse-Switching Vibration Suppression Using Sliding Time Window
Authors: Mohammadi S. , Hatam S. , Khodayari A.
Published: May 2013

The performance of pulse-switching vibration control technique is investigated using a new method for switching sequence, in order to enhance the vibration damping. The control law in this method which was developed in the field of piezoelectric damping is based on triggering the inverting switch on each extremum of the produced voltage (or displacement); however, its efficiency in the case of random excitation is arguable because of the local extremum detection process. The new proposed method for switching sequence is only based on the fact that the triggering voltage level was determined using windowed statistical examination of the deflection signal. Results for a cantilever beam excited by different excitation forces, such as stationary and nonstationary random samples, and pulse forces are presented. A significant decrease in vibration energy and also the robustness of this method are demonstrated.
On Asymptotic Behavior and Blow-Up of Solutions for a Nonlinear Viscoelastic Petrovsky Equation with Positive Initial Energy
Authors: Li Gang , Sun Yun , Liu Wenjun
Published: May 2013

This paper deals with the initial boundary value problem for the nonlinear viscoelastic Petrovsky equationutt+Δ2u−∫0tgt−τΔ2ux,τdτ−Δut−Δutt+utm−1ut=up−1u. Under certain conditions ongand the assumption thatm<p, we establish some asymptotic behavior and blow-up results for solutions with positive initial energy.
A Comparative Analysis of Cultural Competence in Beginning and Graduating Nursing Students
Authors: Reyes Helen , Hadley Lance , Davenport Deborah
Published: May 2013

The ethnic proportions of the population in the United States are rapidly changing, with the nation’s minority population at approximately 101 million. This is also true for the West Texas region, where locally in a city with 183,000 residents, 43 different languages are spoken suggesting that cultural education needs to be included in nursing program curricula. Therefore, a study was conducted during a period of curriculum revision to determine if the current nursing curriculum at a public university offers enough education and experience for graduating nurses to care for such a diverse population by comparing their perceptions of cultural competence with beginning sophomore nursing students' perceptions. Participants were asked to complete the Cultural Competence Assessment (CCA) tool in order to evaluate perceptions of cultural competence. Upon analysis of the data, perceptions of cultural competence among graduating nursing students were significantly higher () than the perceptions of cultural competence among beginning nursing students. These results support that nursing students perceive that they have become culturally competent during their nursing education, leading to implications of the need for continued education relating to this concept, beginning with the first course and continuing throughout the nursing curriculum.
Synthesis of CZTS in Aqueous Media Using Microwave Irradiation
Authors: Madiraju Alekhya Venkata , Taneja Kshitij , Kumar Manoj , Keshri Anup Kumar , Mahajan Sarang Balkrushna , Seelaboyina Raghunandan
Published: May 2013

Copper-Zinc-Tin-Sulfide (CZTS), a promising material for absorber layer application in thin film solar cells, has been synthesized in aqueous media by microwave irradiation technique. Compared to conventional synthesis methods, microwave irradiation is highly efficient, reliable, and less time consuming. The synthesized nanopowders were characterized for particle size by dynamic light scattering (DLS), phase by X-ray diffraction (XRD), and band-gap by UV-Vis-NIR spectroscopy. Various atmospheric processing methods are being evaluated for the deposition of absorber layers from CZTS nanopowder based ink.
Body Mass Index and Risk of Gastric Cancer: A Meta-analysis of a Population with More Than Ten Million from 24 Prospective Studies
Authors: Chen Yi , Liu Lingxiao , Wang Xiaolin , Wang Jianhua , Yan Zhiping , Cheng Jieming , Gong Gaoquan , Li Guoping
Published: May 2013

Background: To provide a quantitative assessment of the association between body mass index (BMI) and the risk of gastric cancer, we summarized the evidence from prospective studies.

Methods: Eligible studies published up to November 30, 2012, were retrieved via computer searches of MEDLINE and EMBASE as well as manual review of references. Summary relative risks (SRR) with their corresponding 95% confidence intervals (CI) were calculated using a random-effects model.

Results: A total of 24 prospective studies of BMI and gastric cancer risk with 41,791 cases were included in our analysis. Overall, both overweight (BMI, 25–30 kg/m2) and obesity (BMI, ≥30 kg/m2) were not associated with risk of total gastric cancer (overweight: SRR, 1.01; 95% CI, 0.96–1.07; obesity: SRR, 1.06; 95% CI, 0.99–1.12). Furthermore, we found increased BMI was positively associated with the risk of gastric cardia cancer (GCC; SRR = 1.21 for overweight and 1.82 for obesity), but not with gastric non-cardia cancer (GNCC; SRR = 0.93 for overweight and SRR = 1.00 for obesity). Similar results were observed in a linear dose–response analysis.

Conclusion: On the basis of meta-analysis of prospective studies, we find high BMI is positively associated with the risk of GCCs but not with GNCCs.

Impact: (i) On the basis of more definite and quantitative evidence than previously available, we found that increasing BMI was not a clear risk factor for total gastric cancer. (ii) Increased BMI was positively associated with risk of GCC but not with GNCCs. Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev; 22(8); 1395–408. ©2013 AACR.
Preclinical Evaluation of the WEE1 Inhibitor MK-1775 as Single-Agent Anticancer Therapy
Authors: Guertin Amy D. , Li Jing , Liu Yaping , Hurd Melissa S. , Schuller Alwin G. , Long Brian , Hirsch Heather A. , Feldman Igor , Benita Yair , Toniatti Carlo , Zawel Leigh , Fawell Stephen E. , Gilliland D. Gary , Shumway Stuart D.
Published: May 2013

Inhibition of the DNA damage checkpoint kinase WEE1 potentiates genotoxic chemotherapies by abrogating cell-cycle arrest and proper DNA repair. However, WEE1 is also essential for unperturbed cell division in the absence of extrinsic insult. Here, we investigate the anticancer potential of a WEE1 inhibitor, independent of chemotherapy, and explore a possible cellular context underlying sensitivity to WEE1 inhibition. We show that MK-1775, a potent and selective ATP-competitive inhibitor of WEE1, is cytotoxic across a broad panel of tumor cell lines and induces DNA double-strand breaks. MK-1775–induced DNA damage occurs without added chemotherapy or radiation in S-phase cells and relies on active DNA replication. At tolerated doses, MK-1775 treatment leads to xenograft tumor growth inhibition or regression. To begin addressing potential response markers for MK-1775 monotherapy, we focused on PKMYT1, a kinase functionally related to WEE1. Knockdown of PKMYT1 lowers the EC50 of MK-1775 by five-fold but has no effect on the cell-based response to other cytotoxic drugs. In addition, knockdown of PKMYT1 increases markers of DNA damage, γH2AX and pCHK1S345, induced by MK-1775. In a post hoc analysis of 305 cell lines treated with MK-1775, we found that expression of PKMYT1 was below average in 73% of the 33 most sensitive cell lines. Our findings provide rationale for WEE1 inhibition as a potent anticancer therapy independent of a genotoxic partner and suggest that low PKMYT1 expression could serve as an enrichment biomarker for MK-1775 sensitivity. Mol Cancer Ther; 12(8); 1442–52. ©2013 AACR.
Alternative Cytotoxic Effects of the Postulated IGF-IR Inhibitor Picropodophyllin In Vitro
Authors: Wu Xuping , Sooman Linda , Wickström Malin , Fryknäs Mårten , Dyrager Christine , Lennartsson Johan , Gullbo Joachim
Published: May 2013

The insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-I) and its receptors play an important role in transformation and progression of several malignancies. Inhibitors of this pathway have been developed and evaluated but generally performed poorly in clinical trials, and several drug candidates have been abandoned. The cyclolignan picropodophyllin (PPP) has been described as a potent and selective IGF-IR inhibitor and is currently undergoing clinical trials. We investigated PPP's activity in panels of human cancer cell lines (e.g., esophageal squamous carcinoma cell lines) but found no effects on the phosphorylation or expression of IGF-IR. Nor was the cytotoxic activity of PPP related to the presence or spontaneous phosphorylation of IGF-IR. However, its activity correlated with that of known tubulin inhibitors, and it destabilized microtubule assembly at cytotoxic concentrations also achievable in patients. PPP is a stereoisomer of podophyllotoxin (PPT), a potent tubulin inhibitor, and an equilibrium between the two has previously been described. PPP could thus potentially act as a reservoir for the continuous generation of low doses of PPT. Interestingly, PPP also inhibited downstream signaling from tyrosine kinase receptors, including the serine/threonine kinase Akt. This effect is associated with microtubule-related downregulation of the EGF receptor, rather than the IGF-IR. These results suggest that the cytotoxicity and pAkt inhibition observed following treatment with the cyclolignan PPP in vitro result from microtubule inhibition (directly or indirectly by spontaneous PPT formation), rather than any effect on IGF-IR. It is also suggested that PPT should be used as a reference compound in all future studies on PPP. Mol Cancer Ther; 12(8); 1526–36. ©2013 AACR.
Pathogenesis of Irritable Bowel Syndrome - Review Regarding Associated Infection and Immune Activation
Authors: Ishihara Shunji , Tada Yasumasa , Fukuba Nobuhiko , Oka Akihiko , Kusunoki Ryusaku , Mishima Yoshiyuki , Oshima Naoki , Moriyama Ichiro , Yuki Takafumi , Kawashima Kousaku , Kinoshita Yoshikazu
Published: May 2013

There is increasing evidence regarding the role of immune activation in the etiology of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), which has been mainly been shown in studies investigating mechanisms of postinfectious IBS (PI-IBS). Exposure to intestinal infection induces persistent low-grade systemic and mucosal inflammation, which is characterized by an altered population of circulating cells, mucosal infiltration of immune cells and increased production of various cytokines in IBS patients. Recent studies have also indicated an increased innate immune response in these patients by evaluating expression and activation of Toll-like receptors (TLRs). These findings suggest that immune activation may play a crucial role in the pathogenesis of IBS. In addition, psychological stress has been reported to be one of the factors that induces immune activation. However, it remains unknown whether immune activation in IBS patients is largely dependent on infectious gastroenteritis and/or psychological stress. Additional studies are necessary to understand the precise mechanism of immune activation and its relationship to the development of IBS.