bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Emerging role of kinase-targeted strategies in chronic lymphocytic leukemia
Authors: Wiestner Adrian
Published: August 2012

Chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) is a malignancy of mature B cells that depend on host factors in the tissue microenvironment for survival and proliferation. In vitro, CLL cells rapidly undergo apoptosis unless microenvironmental factors are provided that support their survival. Signaling pathways activated in the microenvironment in vivo include the B-cell receptor (BCR) and NF-κB pathways. Thus, CLL is a disease “addicted to the host” and is dependent on pathways that promote normal B-cell development, expansion, and survival; this is particularly true in the case of the BCR signaling cascade. Small-molecule inhibitors of kinases that are essential for BCR signal transduction abrogate the stimulating effects of the microenvironment on CLL cells. The orally administered tyrosine kinase inhibitors fostamatinib and ibrutinib and the phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase inhibitor GS-1101 have induced impressive responses in relapsed and refractory CLL patients, mostly with moderate side effects. Reductions in lymphadenopathy and splenomegaly are seen within weeks and are frequently accompanied by a transient rise in absolute lymphocyte count that is asymptomatic and probably the result of changes in CLL cell trafficking. This review discusses the biologic basis for kinase inhibitors as targeted therapy of CLL and summarizes the exciting early clinical experience with these agents.
Genome-wide mapping of NBS-LRR genes and their association with disease resistance in soybean
Authors: Kang Yang Jae , Kim Kil Hyun , Shim Sangrea , Yoon Min Young , Sun Suli , Kim Moon Young , Van Kyujung , Lee Suk-Ha
Published: August 2012

Background

R genes are a key component of genetic interactions between plants and biotrophic bacteria and are known to regulate resistance against bacterial invasion. The most common R proteins contain a nucleotide-binding site and a leucine-rich repeat (NBS-LRR) domain. Some NBS-LRR genes in the soybean genome have also been reported to function in disease resistance. In this study, the number of NBS-LRR genes was found to correlate with the number of disease resistance quantitative trait loci (QTL) that flank these genes in each chromosome. NBS-LRR genes co-localized with disease resistance QTL. The study also addressed the functional redundancy of disease resistance on recently duplicated regions that harbor NBS-LRR genes and NBS-LRR gene expression in the bacterial leaf pustule (BLP)-induced soybean transcriptome.

Results

A total of 319 genes were determined to be putative NBS-LRR genes in the soybean genome. The number of NBS-LRR genes on each chromosome was highly correlated with the number of disease resistance QTL in the 2-Mb flanking regions of NBS-LRR genes. In addition, the recently duplicated regions contained duplicated NBS-LRR genes and duplicated disease resistance QTL, and possessed either an uneven or even number of NBS-LRR genes on each side. The significant difference in NBS-LRR gene expression between a resistant near-isogenic line (NIL) and a susceptible NIL after inoculation of Xanthomonas axonopodis pv. glycines supports the conjecture that NBS-LRR genes have disease resistance functions in the soybean genome.

Conclusions

The number of NBS-LRR genes and disease resistance QTL in the 2-Mb flanking regions of each chromosome was significantly correlated, and several recently duplicated regions that contain NBS-LRR genes harbored disease resistance QTL for both sides. In addition, NBS-LRR gene expression was significantly different between the BLP-resistant NIL and the BLP-susceptible NIL in response to bacterial infection. From these observations, NBS-LRR genes are suggested to contribute to disease resistance in soybean. Moreover, we propose models for how NBS-LRR genes were duplicated, and apply Ks values for each NBS-LRR gene cluster.
Functional expression of a penicillin acylase from the extreme thermophile Thermus thermophilus HB27 in Escherichia coli
Authors: Torres Leticia L , Ferreras Eloy R , Cantero Ángel , Hidalgo Aurelio , Berenguer José
Published: August 2012

Background

Penicillin acylases (PACs) are enzymes of industrial relevance in the manufacture of β-lactam antibiotics. Development of a PAC with a longer half-life under the reaction conditions used is essential for the improvement of the operational stability of the process. A gene encoding a homologue to Escherichia coli PAC was found in the genome of the thermophilic bacterium Thermus thermophilus (Tth) HB27. Because of the nature of this PAC and its complex maturation that is crucial to reach its functional heterodimeric final conformation, the overexpression of this enzyme in a heterologous mesophilic host was a challenge. Here we describe the purification and characterization of the PAC protein from Tth HB27 overexpressed in Escherichia coli.

Results

Fusions to a superfolder green fluorescent protein and differential membrane solubilization assays indicated that the native enzyme remains attached through its amino-terminal end to the outer side of the cytoplasmic membrane of Tth cells. In order to overexpress this PAC in E. coli cells, a variant of the protein devoid of its membrane anchoring segment was constructed. The effect of the co-expression of chaperones and calcium supplementation of the culture medium was investigated. The total production of PAC was enhanced by the presence of DnaK/J and GrpE and even more by trigger factor and GroEL/ES. In addition, 10 mM calcium markedly improved both PAC specific and volumetric activities. Recombinant PAC was affinity-purified and proper maturation of the protein was confirmed by SDS-PAGE and MALDI-TOF analysis of the subunits. The recombinant protein was tested for activity towards several penicillins, cephalosporins and homoserine lactones. Hydrophobic acyl-chain penicillins were preferred over the rest of the substrates. Penicillin K (octanoyl penicillin) was the best substrate, with the highest specificity constant value (16.12 mM-1.seg-1). The optimum pH was aprox. 4 and the optimum temperature was 75 °C. The half-life of the enzyme at this temperature was 9.2 h.

Conclusions

This is the first report concerning the heterologous expression of a pac gene from a thermophilic microorganism in the mesophilic host E. coli. The recombinant protein was identified as a penicillin K-deacylating thermozyme.
Immunization with recombinant enterovirus 71 viral capsid protein 1 fragment stimulated antibody responses in hamsters
Authors: Ch’ng Wei-Choong , Stanbridge Eric J , Wong Kum-Thong , Ong Kien-Chai , Yusoff Khatijah , Shafee Norazizah
Published: August 2012

Enterovirus 71 (EV71) causes severe neurological diseases resulting in high mortality in young children worldwide. Development of an effective vaccine against EV71 infection is hampered by the lack of appropriate animal models for efficacy testing of candidate vaccines. Previously, we have successfully tested the immunogenicity and protectiveness of a candidate EV71 vaccine, containing recombinant Newcastle disease virus capsids that display an EV71 VP1 fragment (NPt-VP11-100) protein, in a mouse model of EV71 infection. A drawback of this system is its limited window of EV71 susceptibility period, 2 weeks after birth, leading to restricted options in the evaluation of optimal dosing regimens. To address this issue, we have assessed the NPt-VP11-100 candidate vaccine in a hamster system, which offers a 4-week susceptibility period to EV71 infection. Results obtained showed that the NPt-VP11-100 candidate vaccine stimulated excellent humoral immune response in the hamsters. Despite the high level of antibody production, they failed to neutralize EV71 viruses or protect vaccinated hamsters in viral challenge studies. Nevertheless, these findings have contributed towards a better understanding of the NPt-VP11-100 recombinant protein as a candidate vaccine in an alternative animal model system.
Genetic and bioinformatic analyses of the expression and function of PI3K regulatory subunit PIK3R3 in an Asian patient gastric cancer library
Authors: Zhou Jin , Chen Geng Bo , Tang Yew Chung , Sinha Rohit Anthony , Wu Yonghui , Yap Chui Sun , Wang Guihua , Hu Junbo , Xia Xianmin , Tan Patrick , Goh Liang Kee , Yen Paul Michael
Published: August 2012

Background

While there is strong evidence for phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI3K) involvement in cancer development, there is limited information about the role of PI3K regulatory subunits. PIK3R3, the gene that encodes the PI3K regulatory subunit p55γ, is over-expressed in glioblastoma and ovarian cancers, but its expression in gastric cancer (GC) is not known. We thus used genetic and bioinformatic approaches to examine PIK3R3 expression and function in GC, the second leading cause of cancer mortality world-wide and highly prevalent among Asians.

Methods

Primary GC and matched non-neoplastic mucosa tissue specimens from a unique Asian patient gastric cancer library were comprehensively profiled with platforms that measured genome-wide mRNA expression, DNA copy number variation, and DNA methylation status. Function of PIK3R3 was predicted by IPA pathway analysis of co-regulated genes with PIK3R3, and further investigated by siRNA knockdown studies. Cell proliferation was estimated by crystal violet dye elution and BrdU incorporation assay. Cell cycle distribution was analysed by FACS.

Results

PIK3R3 was significantly up-regulated in GC specimens (n = 126, p < 0.05), and 9.5 to 15% tumors showed more than 2 fold increase compare to the paired mucosa tissues. IPA pathway analysis showed that PIK3R3 promoted cellular growth and proliferation. Knockdown of PIK3R3 decreased the growth of GC cells, induced G0/G1 cell cycle arrest, decreased retinoblastoma protein (Rb) phosphorylation, cyclin D1, and PCNA expression.

Conclusion

Using a combination of genetic, bioinformatic, and molecular biological approaches, we showed that PIK3R3 was up-regulated in GC and promoted cell cycle progression and proliferation; and thus may be a potential new therapeutic target for GC.
Most Wars in American History Were Unnecessary and Undermined the Republic
Authors: Eland Ivan
Published: August 2012

War frequently leads to large increases in taxes, regulation, and government spending—both for the military and ostensibly unrelated domestic programs. Conservatives should not ignore that war is the most prominent cause, directly or indirectly, of the massive welfare state that has been erected in the United States. Many conservatives today might argue that despite the conflict-induced ill effects of ballooning government, war is sometimes necessary for US security. However, this analysis shows that even most of the nation’s big wars were unneeded, foolish, or counterproductive—particularly the post–World War II prosecution of small imperial brushfire wars and nation building.
Immigration and Entrepreneurial Diversification in Contemporary Greece
Authors: Skandalis Konstantinos S.
Published: August 2012

Entrepreneurship represents a very important element in the sustainable development of a country’s economy and becomes more complex when viewed from the angle of migration, which affects nearly all countries whether they are a place of origin, transit, destination, or a combination of these. Utilizing survey data, this essay attempts to identify the key factors explaining the entrepreneurial initiatives of immigrants in Greece. It reviews the literature of immigrant entrepreneurship and gives an overview of immigration and the profile of immigrants in the country. The essay ends with some conclusions about the findings and suggests future implications.
A Sox9/Fgf feed-forward loop maintains pancreatic organ identity
Authors: Seymour Philip A. , Shih Hung Ping , Patel Nisha A. , Freude Kristine K. , Xie Ruiyu , Lim Christopher J. , Sander Maike
Published: August 2012

All mature pancreatic cell types arise from organ-specific multipotent progenitor cells. Although previous studies have identified cell-intrinsic and -extrinsic cues for progenitor cell expansion, it is unclear how these cues are integrated within the niche of the developing organ. Here, we present genetic evidence in mice that the transcription factor Sox9 forms the centerpiece of a gene regulatory network that is crucial for proper organ growth and maintenance of organ identity. We show that pancreatic progenitor-specific ablation of Sox9 during early pancreas development causes pancreas-to-liver cell fate conversion. Sox9 deficiency results in cell-autonomous loss of the fibroblast growth factor receptor (Fgfr) 2b, which is required for transducing mesenchymal Fgf10 signals. Likewise, Fgf10 is required to maintain expression of Sox9 and Fgfr2 in epithelial progenitors, showing that Sox9, Fgfr2 and Fgf10 form a feed-forward expression loop in the early pancreatic organ niche. Mirroring Sox9 deficiency, perturbation of Fgfr signaling in pancreatic explants or genetic inactivation of Fgf10 also result in hepatic cell fate conversion. Combined with previous findings that Fgfr2b or Fgf10 are necessary for pancreatic progenitor cell proliferation, our results demonstrate that organ fate commitment and progenitor cell expansion are coordinately controlled by the activity of a Sox9/Fgf10/Fgfr2b feed-forward loop in the pancreatic niche. This self-promoting Sox9/Fgf10/Fgfr2b loop may regulate cell identity and organ size in a broad spectrum of developmental and regenerative contexts.
Epidermal and cortical roles ofNFPandDMI3in coordinating early steps of nodulation inMedicago truncatula
Authors: Rival Pauline , de Billy Françoise , Bono Jean-Jacques , Gough Clare , Rosenberg Charles , Bensmihen Sandra
Published: August 2012

Legumes have evolved the capacity to form a root nodule symbiosis with soil bacteria called rhizobia. The establishment of this symbiosis involves specific developmental events occurring both in the root epidermis (notably bacterial entry) and at a distance in the underlying root cortical cells (notably cell divisions leading to nodule organogenesis). The processes of bacterial entry and nodule organogenesis are tightly linked and both depend on rhizobial production of lipo-chitooligosaccharide molecules called Nod factors. However, how these events are coordinated remains poorly understood. Here, we have addressed the roles of two key symbiotic genes of Medicago truncatula, the lysin motif (LysM) domain-receptor like kinase gene NFP and the calcium- and calmodulin-dependent protein kinase gene DMI3, in the control of both nodule organogenesis and bacterial entry. By complementing mutant plants with corresponding genes expressed either in the epidermis or in the cortex, we have shown that epidermal DMI3, but not NFP, is sufficient for infection thread formation in root hairs. Epidermal NFP is sufficient to induce cortical cell divisions leading to nodule primordia formation, whereas DMI3 is required in both cell layers for these processes. Our results therefore suggest that a signal, produced in the epidermis under the control of NFP and DMI3, is responsible for activating DMI3 in the cortex to trigger nodule organogenesis. We integrate these data to propose a new model for epidermal/cortical crosstalk during early steps of nodulation.
Raf/MEK/ERK signaling inhibition enhances the ability of dequalinium to induce apoptosis in the human leukemic cell line K562
Authors: Sancho Pilar , Galeano Eva , Estañ María Cristina , Gañán-Gómez Irene , Boyano-Adánez María del Carmen , García-Pérez Ana Isabel
Published: August 2012

Delocalized lipophilic cations, such as dequalinium (DQA), selectively accumulate in mitochondria and display anticancer activity in cells from different malignancies. Previous studies in K562 human leukemic cells indicate that DQA causes cell damage as a consequence of an early disturbance in the mitochondrial function, inducing oxidative stress. These cells turned out to be resistant to apoptosis and died by necrosis when treated with high DQA concentrations (20 μmol/L) for long time periods (48 h). Resistance of K562 cells to DQA-induced apoptosis could be eliminated by inhibition of the kinase activity of the Bcr-Abl protein with imatinib. In this paper, we have studied the effect of DQA on the Raf/MEK/ERK1/2 and PI3K/Akt signal transduction pathways in K562 cells. Our data suggest a DQA downregulatory activity on both ERK1/2 and PI3K protein kinase activity supporting an interaction between both proteins. Moreover, inhibition of ERK1/2 with U0126 enhanced the ability of DQA to potentiate imatinib-induced apoptosis, suggesting a role of the Raf/MEK/ERK pathway and the Bcr-Abl tyrosine kinase in the K562 cell survival. This study contributes to a better understanding of the action mechanism of DQA on K562 cells and encourages the study of DQA in combination with other agents for improving the efficacy of targeted therapies and overcoming resistance to chemotherapeutic agents.
Evaluating the performance of whole genome amplification for use in low template DNA typing
Authors: Lee James Chun-I , Tsai Li-Chin , Lai Pi-Yi , Lee Cheng-Chang , Lin Chun-Yen , Huang Tsun-Ying , Linacre Adrian , Hsieh Hsing-Mei
Published: August 2012

We report on the performance of two whole genome amplification methods, GenomiPhi™ amplification and modified-improved primer extension preamplification (mIPEP), when analysing low template DNA samples. Template as low as 10 pg treated with mIPEP generated more than 1 ng of DNA that could be used in STR typing. Initial templates of 100–10 pg, when treated with mIPEP, generated an increase in alleles compared with control samples. Partial profiles using the AmpFℓSTR® Identifiler™ Kit were produced from this suboptimal DNA template, with 70% of the possible alleles (21.7 ± 2.1 in 32 alleles) recorded, using the mIPEP amplified products with an initial template of 100 pg. Allelic imbalance decreased with samples treated with whole genome amplification method (WGA) compared with those without this initial treatment. Further methods for improvement were also analysed including altering the condition of electrokinetic injection, and the successful DNA typing rate was increased to about 80%. This report illustrates the potential use and limitations of WGA for low template samples.
Biogenesis of telomerase ribonucleoproteins
Authors: Egan Emily D. , Collins Kathleen
Published: August 2012

Telomerase adds simple-sequence repeats to the ends of linear chromosomes to counteract the loss of end sequence inherent in conventional DNA replication. Catalytic activity for repeat synthesis results from the cooperation of the telomerase reverse transcriptase protein (TERT) and the template-containing telomerase RNA (TER). TERs vary widely in sequence and structure but share a set of motifs required for TERT binding and catalytic activity. Species-specific TER motifs play essential roles in RNP biogenesis, stability, trafficking, and regulation. Remarkably, the biogenesis pathways that generate mature TER differ across eukaryotes. Furthermore, the cellular processes that direct the assembly of a biologically functional telomerase holoenzyme and its engagement with telomeres are evolutionarily varied and regulated. This review highlights the diversity of strategies for telomerase RNP biogenesis, RNP assembly, and telomere recruitment among ciliates, yeasts, and vertebrates and suggests common themes in these pathways and their regulation.
Geotechnical Properties of Recycled Concrete Aggregate in Pavement Sub-Base Applications
Authors: Arulrajah A. , Piratheepan J. , Ali M. M. Y. , Bo M. W.
Published: August 2012

This paper presents a laboratory investigation of the geotechnical properties of recycled concrete aggregate (RCA). The properties of RCA were compared with state road authority requirements to assess its performance as a pavement sub-base material. The experimental programme included tests such as particle size distribution, modified Proctor compaction, particle density, water absorption, California bearing ratio (CBR), Los Angeles abrasion loss, pH, organic content, static triaxial, and repeated load triaxial tests. The Los Angeles abrasion loss tests indicated that the RCA is durable. CBR values were found to satisfy the local state road authority requirements for sub-base material. Repeated load triaxial tests established that the RCA would perform satisfactorily as a pavement sub-base material in the field. The results of the laboratory testing undertaken in this research indicated that RCA satisfied the criteria for use in pavement sub-base applications.
Dispersion Analysis in Geotechnical Laboratory Tests: Time-frequency and Time-scale Signal Transforms
Authors: Wuttke F. , Markwardt K. , Schanz T.
Published: August 2012

Signal processing techniques are very important for the analysis of dispersion characteristics in geotechnical laboratory applications. The scope of this paper includes the study of advanced time-frequency and time-scale methods with regard to the development of an efficient method of group velocity determination based on the time-frequency behavior of propagating wave fields. The paper analyzes different time-frequency and time-scale transform methods for further use in group velocity determination as alternatives to conventional techniques. Besides the alternative itself, the presented scheme overcomes some existing problems of conventional methods in velocity determination. The advantages and disadvantages of the time-frequency and time-scale methods are presented and discussed. Finally, the applicability of given time-frequency and time-scale methods is validated by synthetic and experimental data.
TDR Method for Compaction Quality Control: Multi Evaluation and Sources of Error
Authors: Lin Chun-Hung , Lin Chih-Ping , Drnevich Vincent
Published: August 2012

The use of the time domain reflectometry (TDR) method, designated ASTM D6780 (ASTM D6780, 2005, “Standard Test Method for Water Content and Density of Soil in Place by Time Domain Reflectometry (TDR),” Annual Book of ASTM Standards, Vol. 04.09 ASTM International, West Conshohocken, PA), to measure water content and soil density is relatively new with both successful and unsatisfactory results being reported. This paper reexamines the TDR method from various aspects, including laboratory investigation of the relation between TDR-measured electrical properties and soil phase parameters, full scale laboratory evaluation of the standardized methods, real world performance evaluation at construction sites of earth dams, and theoretical reexamination. Laboratory calibration reveals the effect of soil type on soil electrical properties, and its implication on the TDR method is discussed. The full scale laboratory evaluation supports the validity of both the one-step and two-step TDR methods. But the field evaluation at construction sites of earth dams indicates otherwise, particularly in the measurement of soil density. The errors in the two-step method are attributed to the penetration disturbance of the field multipole resonance probe (MRP). An additional source of error in the One-Step method is found to be a theoretical flaw in the current empirical adjustment process for correcting the variation of pore-fluid conductivity from the calibration test to field measurements. Remediation for the two-step method and updating of the ASTM D6780 to overcome the shortcomings of the one-step testing are in progress.
Time-Dependent Rheological Changes of Fly Ash Blended Cement Paste
Authors: Chen Wei , Shui Zhonghe , Fan Jianfeng
Published: August 2012

Cement-based materials are known to be time-dependent, especially at early ages. The time-dependent flow-behavior change controls the workability and compactability of fresh concrete. This time-dependent nature of cement-based materials is associated with the cement hydration and the consequent microstructure development. Time-dependent rheological changes of fly ash blended cement paste are investigated in this study with the flow spread, needle penetration, and rheometer tests. Hydration of the fly ash blended cement paste is monitored continuously with the ultrasonic propagation method. The results show that the thixotropy of fresh cement paste is increased by lowering the water-to-binder ratios and is mitigated by replacing Portland cement with fly ash or adding superplasticizers. The yield stress changes of the cement paste are mainly affected by the curing time rather than the water-to-binder ratio and the fly ash proportions. On the other hand, the viscosity changes slightly with time. Viscosity of the fresh paste is the controlling factor on the flow spread, and the yield stress determines the needle penetration depth. Models show that the flow spread of fresh paste is related to its viscosity with a power function and the needle penetration depth is inversely related to the yield stress.
Evaluation of Epoxy Asphalt Concrete Damping Parameters Using Impact Resonance Test
Authors: Chen Leilei , Qian Zhendong , Zhang Lei
Published: August 2012

An evaluation of epoxy asphalt concrete (EAC) damping parameters based on the impact resonance test (IRT) is presented. The EAC beam specimens for the IRT were designed and tested under different temperatures. The damping parameters of EAC were then calculated via the logarithmic decrement method. The theoretical natural frequencies of the EAC beams were calculated and compared with the test results as a verification of the IRT, and the comparison results indicate that the IRT is an effective method for determining the damping parameters of EAC. Sensitivity analyses were conducted in order to evaluate the effect of load modes, structure types, and temperatures by means of IRT with different impulsive load modes under different temperatures for EAC beams with different support types. The results show that the damping parameters are not affected by the load modes and are affected little by the structural modes. However, they decrease significantly with increasing test temperature. The tested damping parameters can provide parameters for the accurate dynamic analysis of the EAC wearing course on bridge decks.
High-Temperature Viscosity Performance of Crumb-Rubber-Modified Binder With Warm Mix Asphalt Additives
Authors: Wang Hainian , Dang Zhengxia , You Zhanping , Cao Dongwei
Published: August 2012

The application of crumb-rubber modifier (CRM) in asphalt mixtures has been proven to increase the viscosity of CRM binders. In recent years, warm mix asphalt (WMA) additives have been employed to CRM binders to lower their viscosity at high temperatures, allowing a decrease in the mixing and compaction temperatures. The objective of this research is to investigate the viscosity and storage stability of rubberized WMA binders with different tire rubber concentrations and WMA additives. The tire rubber of 40-mesh, with concentrations of 10 %, 15 %, 20 %, and 25 % by weight of a Superpave performance grade (PG) 64-22 asphalt binder, were used in this study along with the WMA additives, such as Sasobit, RH and Advera. Viscosity tests were conducted on the rubberized WMA binders using the rotational viscometer at four temperatures (135, 160, 177, and 190°C). The statistical analysis of variance (ANOVA) was applied to quantify the respective effects of the influencing factors on the CRM binder’s viscosity. The test results indicated that the addition of crumb rubber could greatly increase the viscosity of asphalt binders, which could be improved continuously at increased crumb-rubber concentrations. However, when considering different WMA additives, the crumb rubber showed different effects on the viscosity of the binder. The three WMA additives could all reduce the viscosity of the CRM binder; in addition, RH had the most significant effect on viscosity reduction. It was also found that the CRM binders with WMA additives had good storage stability. For example, the viscosity of the CRM binder with 10 % rubber concentration and RH only increased by 3.8 % after being stored for 4.5 h.
A Study on Photo-thermal Coupled Aging Kinetics of Bitumen
Authors: Wang Hui , Feng Zhengang , Zhou Bo , Yu Jianying
Published: August 2012

The effect of photo-thermal coupled aging on the viscosity of bitumen was investigated at three different temperatures and three different ultraviolet (UV) light intensities. The photo-thermal coupled aging kinetic model of bitumen was put forward based on the viscosity of bitumen under different photo-thermal coupled aging conditions. In order to evaluate the extent of aging in bitumen, kinetic parameters based on the aging kinetic model were calculated and compared. The results reveal that UV radiation and heat play a coupled role in accelerating the aging process of bitumen. Photo-thermal coupled aging has a greater influence on the aging rate of bitumen than single factor aging. A higher aging temperature and UV intensity have a more pronounced effect on the photo-thermal coupled aging, which leads to an obvious acceleration of the aging reaction rate.
Evaluating Laboratory Compaction of Asphalt Mixtures Using the Shear Box Compactor
Authors: Qiu J. , Li N. , Pramesti F. P. , van de Ven M. F.C. , Molenaar A. A.A.
Published: August 2012

Laboratory produced test specimens are usually obtained with devices like Marshall compaction, gyratory compaction, or roller compaction. However, with these methods it is difficult to control the sample-to-sample variation of the final density of the test specimens, which can strongly influence the results of performance testing. It is very important to have a repeatable and efficient production method of test specimens available in the laboratory. The shear box compactor was recently developed to simulate field compaction with a constant compressive force and a cyclic shear force with constant maximum shear angle applied to the asphalt mixture. The shear box compactor produces asphalt blocks with a size of 450 mm in length, 150 mm in width, and 145–185 mm in height. Test specimens like beams or cylinders can be obtained from the block for laboratory performance testing. In this paper, the compaction results with the shear box compactor are reported for asphalt mixtures with different gradations and binder types. Asphalt specimens with different mixture compositions, shapes, sizes, and sampling positions were investigated by volumetric properties. Finite element modeling was introduced to obtain more understanding of the compacting process of the shear box compactor. The results indicate that the decreasing of voids content of asphalt mixtures during compaction process is dependent on the gradation than the binder type. The asphalt mixture specimens obtained from the same asphalt mixture block has a variation in voids content of less than 1 %. Test specimens obtained from the upper part of the asphalt block are more compacted than specimens from the lower part. And the specimens obtained close to the side of the block are less compacted due to lack of shear stress. As a result, the shear box compactor provides a reliable means of sample preparation, making it very suitable for producing specimens with constant volumetric properties.
The Many and Changing Faces of Ògún
Authors: Poynor Robin
Published: August 2012

Ògún, the Yorùbá god of iron, is venerated throughout the Atlantic world. While many African-based religions coexist in Florida, the shrines discussed here were developed by individuals connected with Oyotunji Village in South Carolina. South Florida's urban shrines differ remarkably from north central Florida's rural shrines. I suggest several factors determine this variation: changing characteristics of Ògún, differing circumstances of the shrines' creators, the environment in which the owners work, and whether the setting is urban or rural. Urban shrines reflect religious competition where many manifestations of òrìṣà worship coexist but are not in agreement. In these shrines, Ògún is vengeful protector. The urban shrines tend to be visually strident, filled with jagged forms of protective weapons. In rural north central Florida, Ògún is clearer of the way, a builder, and reflects the personalities of those who venerate him. These shrines are less harsh and are filled with tools.
Candomblé Beads and Identity in Salvador da Bahia, Brazil
Authors: Shirey Heather
Published: August 2012

Strings of beads made of plastic, glass or clay are the most common and visible material representations of the Candomblé orixás (deities) in Salvador da Bahia, Brazil. At the most basic level, Candomblé beads are symbolic representations of the orixás. When they are consecrated with a bath of sacred herbs or blood from an offering, beads share in the axé—the spiritual force that resides in all living things and impregnates the entire Yoruba-Atlantic universe. With the appropriate offering, beads do more than represent the divine, they become the divine, providing their owners with a continual link to the spiritual force of the orixá and the Candomblé community. Based on extensive interviews and participant-observation, this fieldwork-based research focuses on Candomblé beads and the multiple roles they play in the lives of those who invest them with power and make them an important part of their spiritual lives. Ultimately, beads are symbols of status, protection, and affiliation with Candomblé, and to varying degrees they are recognized as such by people inside and outside of the Candomblé community.
Association between posttest dexamethasone and cortisol concentrations in the 1 mg overnight dexamethasone suppression test
Authors: Åsvold Bjørn O , Grill Valdemar , Thorstensen Ketil , Bjørgaas Marit R
Published: August 2012

It has been suggested that comparison of posttest dexamethasone and cortisol concentrations may improve the evaluation of the dexamethasone suppression test (DST) for Cushing's syndrome. In particular, this would be reasonable if posttest cortisol differs by dexamethasone levels within the range that is usually attained in the DST. Using fractional polynomial regression, we therefore studied the association between posttest 0800 h dexamethasone and cortisol levels in 53 subjects without Cushing's syndrome who were tested with the 1 mg overnight DST. Plasma dexamethasone was associated with plasma cortisol (P<0.001), and the regression line suggested a strong negative association related to dexamethasone levels <5 nmol/l. However, among the 94% of subjects with plasma dexamethasone >5.0 nmol/l, there was no association between dexamethasone and cortisol levels (P=0.55). In conclusion, subjects tested with the 1 mg overnight DST usually attain an 0800 h plasma dexamethasone >5 nmol/l, and plasma cortisol does not differ by plasma dexamethasone in these subjects. This suggests that routine comparison of dexamethasone and cortisol levels may not be a useful approach to improve the performance of the 1 mg DST. However, dexamethasone measurements may identify subjects with inadequately low plasma dexamethasone and may therefore be of value when retesting subjects with possibly false-positive DST results.
Suppressors, Screens, and Genes: An Educational Primer for Use with “A Network of Genes Antagonistic to the LIN-35 Retinoblastoma Protein of Caenorhabditis elegans”
Authors: De Stasio Elizabeth A
Published: August 2012

An article by Polley and Fay in this issue of GENETICS provides an excellent opportunity to introduce or reinforce concepts of reverse genetics and RNA interference, suppressor screens, synthetic phenotypes, and phenocopy. Necessary background, explanations of these concepts, and a sample approach to classroom use of the original article, including discussion questions, are provided.
A New Excimer-Laser-Annealing Method for Manufacturing Large OLED Displays
Authors: Im James S.
Published: August 2012

In this paper, we present an example of a new generation of laser-crystallization approaches that can crystallize Si films for large active-matrix displays at drastically increased effective crystallization rates. The particular scheme presented in this paper is referred to as the advanced excimer-laser-annealing (AELA) method, and it can be readily configured for manufacturing large OLED TVs using various available and field-proven technical components. As in ELA, it is mostly a partial-/near-complete-melting-regime-based crystallization approach; AELA can, however, eventually achieve greater than one order of magnitude increase in the effective rate of crystallization over that of the conventional ELA technique utilizing the same laser source. We discuss in this paper how and why such a dramatic increase can be attained, and some strategical and technological benefits and options that can be entertained regarding, and as a result of the availability of, the AELA technique.
Effect of Film Thickness Variation on (100)-Surface Texturing of MPS Processed Polycrystalline Si Films
Authors: Chahal Monica , van der Wilt P. C. , Van Gestel D. , Limanov A. B. , Chitu A. M. , Im James S.
Published: August 2012

We have investigated the effect of varying the film thickness on the surface orientation texturing in polycrystalline Si films obtained via mixed-phase solidification (MPS) of initially a-Si precursor films on SiO2. It is found that, for a given number of MPS exposure cycles, the degree of (100)-surface texturing is reduced as the film thickness is increased. We discuss how this trend can be accounted for by the previously proposed thermodynamic model of MPS, wherein a decreasing local solid/liquid interface curvature with increasing film thickness is identified as the primary cause for decreasing the influence which anisotropic solid-Si/SiO2 interfacial energies have on the survivability of the grains. This, in turn, leads to other factors becoming more significant in determining the grains that survive the MPS cycle, thereby reducing the degree of (100)-surface texturing in the resulting films.
MEMS on LSI by Adhesive Bonding and Wafer Level Packaging
Authors: Esashi Masayoshi , Tanaka Shuji
Published: August 2012

Resonators and switches are fabricated on LSI for advance wireless communication systems. In addition to surface micromachining, adhesive bonding has been applied for the fabrication. Lamb wave resonators are fabricated for multi-frequency oscillators by surface micromachining. Multi-band filters are formed by a MEMS process after bonding a Si wafer to a LSI wafer (wafer bonding first approach). SAW filters are made by bonding a MEMS wafer to a LSI wafer (wafer bonding last approach). Variable capacitors are fabricated on a piezoelectric LiNbO3 wafer. Wafer level packaging techniques are developed to encapsulate the MEMS on LSI. Open collaboration as shared wafer, prototyping facility and hands-on access fabrication facility are discussed to reduce a cost and a risk in the development of the MEMS on LSI.
Garnet-type Li7La3Zr2O12 Electrolyte Prepared by a Solution-Based Technique for Lithium ion battery
Authors: Tan Jiajia , Tiwari Ashutosh
Published: August 2012

High quality garnet-type Li7La3Zr2O12 solid electrolyte was synthesized using a solution-based technique. The electrolyte pellets were sintered at 900 oC, resulting in tetragonal phase, which then transformed to cubic phase after annealing at 1230 oC. The ionic conductivity of both phases was studied and revealed to be 3.67x10-7 S/cm and 1.67×10-4 S/cm, respectively. A proto-type cell comprising of Li7La3Zr2O12 electrolyte, LiCoO2 cathode and lithium metal anode was assembled. The cell made with the cubic phase electrolyte exhibited superior performance than the one made with the tetragonal phase electrolyte. The former cell possessed a very promising gravimetric discharge capacity of 3.4 mAh/g, which is the highest value obtained among similar setups.
Structure Characterization and Electrochemical Characteristics of Carbon Nanotube- Spinel Li4Ti5O12Nanoparticles
Authors: Sun Xiangcheng , Iqbal A. , Hosein I. D. , Yacaman M. J. , Tang Z. Y. , Radovanovic P. V. , Cui B.
Published: August 2012

Carbon nanotube-spinel lithium titanate (CNT-Li4Ti5O12) nanoparticles have been synthesized by hydrothermal reaction and higher-temperature calcinations with LiOH·H2O and TiO2precursors in the presence of carbon nanotubes sources. The CNT-Li4Ti5O12nanoparticles have been characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD), high angle annular dark field (HAADF) images, and selected area electron diffraction (SAED). The particles exhibited a spinel cubic crystal phase and homogenous size distribution, with sizes around 50-70 nm. HAADF imaging confirmed that carbon content exists on the surface of the CNT-Li4Ti5O12nanoparticles with graphitic carbon coating of 3-5 nm thickness under 800oC in the Ar gas. The graphitic carbon phase was further confirmed with Raman spectroscopy analysis on powder samples. Electrochemical characteristics were evaluated with galvanostatic discharge/charge tests, which showed that the initial discharge capacity is 172 mA·h/g at 0.1C. The nanoscale carbon layers uniformly coated the particles, and the interconnected carbon nanotube network is responsible for the improved charge rate capability and conductivity.
The Integration of the Ferromagnetic Inductors into the Standard CMOS Chip
Authors: Nizhnik Oleg , Vinluan Olinver M. , Higuchi Kohei , Sonoda Koji , Ishii Masatoshi , Maenaka Kazusuke
Published: August 2012

An inductor in standard CMOS process having an inductance of 52 nH and a quality factor of 1.5 at frequency equal to 80 Mhz was fabricated. The polymer passivation layer of the standard CMOS inductor was etched out. The silicon substrate under the inductor, having a thickness of 280 μm was also etched out by deep reactive ion etching (DRIE). Ferrite material ZnFe2O4 and amorphous material Fe4.7Co70.3Si15B10 was then sputtered on top of the inductor sequentially. The same sputtering procedure was also performed into the bottom of the inductor. The result is an inductor that is sandwiched by multiple ferromagnetic layers. The inductance of the new ferromagnetic inductor has increased by 15% from 52 nH to 60 nH. The quality factor has also increased by 20% from 1.5 to 1.8.
Use of biofilm in the postharvest conservation of 'Pedro Sato' guava
Authors: Silva Danielle Fabíola Pereira , Salomão Luiz Carlos Chamhum , Zambolim Laércio , Rocha Aline
Published: August 2012

This present work aimed to assess the effect of different concentrations of cassava starch, associated or not with prochloraz fungicide, on the postharvest conservation of 'Pedro Sato' guavas. Physiologically mature fruits were immersed in a solution of prochloraz (49.5 g/100 liters of water) for 5 min. Fruit treated with distilled water and air dried were used as control. They were immersed in cassava starch suspension at concentrations of 0, 20, 30 and 40 g/L, plus 0.5 mL/L of mineral oil. The fruits were stored at 21.0 ± 1.0 ºC and relative humidity of 85 ± 5%, for 12 days, and were examined at every three days. The combination of prochloraz and cassava starch resulted in delayed loss of firmness and yellowness and inhibited the incidence of lesions caused by Colletotrichum gloeosporioides during the 12 days of storage. Fruits treated with 40 g/L of starch, whether containing prochloraz or not, had unpleasant taste and odor, which suggests the occurrence of fermentation. Control fruits, with and without prochloraz, and those treated with starch with no prochloraz, had nearly 100% lesion occurrence within the 12 days. Starch suspension of 30 g/L, containing prochloraz, was the most effective in maintaining fruit quality.
Do nacional-desenvolvimentismo ao neoliberalismo: o Partido Republicano, o Estado nacional e os impostos
Authors: Cunha Filho Clayton Mendonça
Published: August 2012

O presente trabalho busca entender a ideologia do Partido Republicano dos Estados Unidos com relação ao Estado a partir de suas ideias e posicionamentos acerca do modo pelo qual esse Estado é financiado: a tributação dos cidadãos estadunidenses. Para tanto, foi feito um estudo histórico do Partido Republicano e um estudo de caso dos cortes de impostos levados a cabo pelo presidente George W. Bush em seu primeiro mandato (2001-2004): em que consistem, a quem beneficiam e quais seus impactos no financiamento da máquina pública estadunidense. Foram analisadas as razões ideológicas dos cortes e como as mesmas refletem a posição atual dos republicanos em relação ao Estado, contextualizando e contrastando a mesma com as posições defendidas e adotadas pelo Partido em sua fundação e ao longo de sua história. Descobrimos que a história do Partido Republicano pode ser dividida em duas fases ideológicas: a primeira, que vai de sua fundação em 1854 até meados dos anos 1920, em que o Estado é visto como indutor do desenvolvimento econômico e mantenedor da unidade nacional; e a segunda, que chega até os dias de hoje, em que o Estado cede progressivamente o lugar de indutor econômico à liberdade individual e passa a ser visto cada vez mais como um obstáculo a ser eliminado.
Coupled stress–seepage analysis of Karun III concrete arch dam
Authors: Hosseinzadeh Arash , Nobarinasab Mahdi , Soroush Abbass , Lotfi Vahid
Published: August 2012

The response of a concrete arch dam is very much affected by the mechanisms of foundation rock behaviour. This type of dam is highly sensitive to displacements of its foundation owing to the low stiffness of the dam compared to the displacements of its foundation and abutments. Seepage is a load type which is distributed widely within foundation rock. Therefore, it could have important effects on displacements and stresses in the dam. In this paper, the Karun III double-curvature, 205 m high arch dam is selected as a case study. Effective stress analyses are carried out for the dam. The analysis results are compared with values recorded by instruments. Furthermore, the effects of some basic input parameters on the response of the dam are investigated. Subsequently, basic parameters are calibrated based on the initial investigation results, and the effective stress analysis is carried out for the Karun III dam by employing the modified parameters.
Rockfall impacts on sheltering tunnels: real-scale experiments
Authors: CALVETTI F. , DI PRISCO C.
Published: August 2012

In this paper the results of a series of rockfall impact tests on a sheltering tunnel are discussed. A reinforced-concrete (RC) sphere (mass 850 kg, diameter 0·9 m) was dropped (falling height ranging between 5 m and 45 m) on a tunnel along a road in the Dolomites. This experimental programme represents the extension of a previous one, performed at Politecnico di Milano (Campus Bovisa), when the same RC sphere was dropped on a circular pool filled with a loose sand stratum. The new programme is characterised by larger falling heights and the monitoring of the mechanical response of the shelter. A series of instruments have been employed to measure impact forces, stress propagation within the absorbing soil stratum on top of the shelter, and its deflection. The results, which are in good agreement with available literature data, are presented with the aim of highlighting the features of the complex impact event and discussing the engineering factors to be considered for conceiving a realistic and reliable design approach. The main conclusion is that the impact force is unaffected by the presence of the plate, and that the stress increment on the structure is slightly reduced by the structure deflection, which can be neglected for design purposes without unreasonable levels of conservatism being introduced.