bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Multiple Glomus Tumors: Recognition and Diagnosis
Authors: Macedo D'Acri Antonio , Ramos‐e‐Silva Marcia , Basílio‐de‐Oliveira Carlos , Cerqueira Ana , Monteiro Daniela , Pretti Giovana , Longo Cristiana , Monteiro Érica
Published: June 2007

Background. Glomus tumor is a benign neoplasm of uncommon occurrence in daily practice, more frequently observed as a single painful lesion, at the distal phalanges of the fingers. Multiple presentation is very rare, with fewer than 200 reports, usually presenting as small angiomatous lesions with discrete pain.

Objectives. The study's objective was to analyze the epidemiologic, clinical, therapeutic, and histopathologic aspects in a series of six cases of multiple glomus tumors.

Results. All patients were men, between 12–45 years of age. The tumor was congenital or appeared between 3–25 years of age. The clinical picture oscillated between three to 10 lesions, as macules, nodules, or tumors, with colors varying from bluish, brown‐bluish, violet, to normochromic. The lesions were detected in the trunk and one or more members, not affecting the head, hands, and feet. Pain was discrete or absent. Incisional biopsy for histopathologic evaluation with the hematoxylin‐eosin staining confirmed the diagnosis of glomus tumor in all cases. It showed the characteristic glomus cells and vascular spaces. The complete excision of the tumorous plaque was performed in one patient and a complex corrective procedure is still to be performed for one aberrant tumor in another case. The other patients received advice about their disease and were asked to periodically return.

Conclusion. Because this is a very uncommon illness, the present series allowed the demonstration of the wide variety of epidemiologic and clinical aspects described in the literature, with the presentation of elements that may improve its recognition and diagnosis.
Patterns of Chronic Dermatoses in an Ethiopian Central Teaching Hospital: A Histopathologic Approach
Authors: Bezabih Mesele
Published: June 2007

Background. This study was designed to describe the causes and distributional patterns of chronic infective‐parasitic dermatoses.

Methods. A histology‐based cross‐sectional study was conducted for the years between January 1985 and December 1998 within the Tikur Anbessa Hospital, Department of Pathology, Addis Ababa University. The data were retrieved from the department's archives and all dermatologic cases fulfilling bacterial, viral, fungal, and parasitic etiologies were included in the study. Formalin fixed, and paraffin embedded tissues were stained with the routine hematoxylin and eosin staining procedure and visualized under light microscopy.

Results. Out of 162 cases of chronic specific infective‐parasitic dermatoses diagnosed, the mean ages for men and women were 31.5 (SD, 16.6) and 25.1 (SD, 14.3) years respectively and the peak age group was 20–29 years (30.2%). Moreover, the ratio of men to women was 1.1:1. The most commonly diagnosed dermatosis was wart (38.9%), followed by cutaneous tuberculosis (17.9%), and cutaneous leishmaniasis (14.2%). The most frequently involved region was the lower limb (46.3%), followed by the face (23.5%).

Conclusion. This study tried to surface the frequency distribution of the histopathologically‐proven dermatoses that are prevalent in our part of the world. The lower limbs being the most frequent sites of dermatoses, their predisposing factors need to be addressed in our communities in order to lessen the effects of these dermatoses. This study may act as a baseline for similar investigations that may be undertaken in the future.
Gender Differences in Vesiculobullous Autoimmune Skin Diseases
Authors: Maharshak Nitsan , Brenner Sarah
Published: June 2007

Autoimmune vesiculobullous skin diseases are a common occurrence in dermatology practice and do have gender differences. While most dermal antigens and autoantibodies in these diseases have been identified, the etiology and clinical characteristics of the autoimmunity remain obscure, such as why more than 70% of autoimmune diseases are more frequent in women. Researching gender differences and the mechanisms of autoimmune diseases will shed light on the answers to such questions.
Cutaneous Manifestations of Disease in Athletes
Authors: Bender Thomas W.
Published: June 2007

In this first part of a two part series, we will discuss infectious means of skin injury and contact sensation in regard to athletic participation. Part 2 will address mechanical means and environmental means of skin injury as well as performance enhancing drugs used in sports and their effects on the skin.
Hierarchical Porosity Components by Infiltration of a Ceramic Foam
Authors: Costacurta Stefano , Biasetto Lisa , Pippel Eckhard , Woltersdorf Jörg , Colombo Paolo
Published: June 2007

A ceramic body with hierarchical meso–macro‐porosity was prepared by depositing a mesoporous silica coating on the walls of a macroporous silicon oxycarbide (SiOC) foam. Scanning electron microscopy, transmission electron microscopy, and small‐angle X‐ray scattering revealed that a uniform mesoporous coating was deposited on the walls of the macropores, with the mesopores arranged in a highly ordered cubic lattice. Nitrogen adsorption measurements showed a bimodal pore size distribution and revealed that the specific surface area is one order of magnitude higher than in macroporous SiOC foams. Therefore, interesting applications in adsorption and catalysis can be devised.
Regionally Differential Effects of Sennoside A on Spontaneous Contractions of Colon in Mice
Authors: Kobayashi Michiko , Yamaguchi Taketo , Odaka Takeo , Nakamura Tomonori , Tsuchiya Shizuko , Yokosuka Osamu , Yano Shingo
Published: June 2007

Abstract:  Sennosides, the most popular irritant laxatives, cause purgative actions in the intestine through biotransformation to rhein anthrone; however, the underlying mechanisms remain unclear. The purpose of this study was to define colonic motor actions of sennoside A with special reference to purgative action. Mice received a single oral dose of 30 mg/kg sennoside A, and the colon was removed about 6 hr later. Contractions of longitudinal and circular muscles were recorded using an isometric force transducer and a pressure transducer, respectively. In longitudinal muscle preparations, spontaneous contractions were augmented in distal colon compared to control. In circular muscle preparations, contractions were reduced in the proximal colon, but increased in the distal colon. Particularly in the proximal colon, the frequency of high‐amplitude contraction was reduced. In the control group, non‐adrenergic, non‐cholinergic treatment decreased the amplitude of contractions in the proximal colon, but not in the distal colon. In the sennoside A group, non‐adrenergic, non‐cholinergic treatment only slightly depressed the amplitude of contractions in the proximal and distal colon. To confirm a causal relationship between luminal prostaglandin level and purgative action of sennoside A, the mice were treated with indomethacin. Significant changes induced by sennoside A were attenuated by indomethacin treatment. The present study indicates that spontaneous motility is inhibited by sennoside A in the proximal colon, but accelerated in the distal colon, and that effects are associated with luminal prostanoid level and only partially with cholinergic nerve mediation.
DNA Cards: Determinants of DNA Yield and Quality in Collecting Genetic Samples for Pharmacogenetic Studies
Authors: Mas Sergi , Crescenti Anna , Gassó Patricia , Vidal‐Taboada Jose M , Lafuente Amalia
Published: June 2007

Abstract:  As pharmacogenetic studies frequently require establishment of DNA banks containing large cohorts with multi‐centric designs, inexpensive methods for collecting and storing high‐quality DNA are needed. The aims of this study were two‐fold: to compare the amount and quality of DNA obtained from two different DNA cards (IsoCode Cards® or FTA Classic Cards®, Whatman plc, Brentford, Middlesex, UK); and to evaluate the effects of time and storage temperature, as well as the influence of anticoagulant ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid on the DNA elution procedure. The samples were genotyped by several methods typically used in pharmacogenetic studies: multiplex PCR, PCR‐restriction fragment length polymorphism, single nucleotide primer extension, and allelic discrimination assay. In addition, they were amplified by whole genome amplification to increase genomic DNA mass. Time, storage temperature and ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid had no significant effects on either DNA card. This study reveals the importance of drying blood spots prior to isolation to avoid haemoglobin interference. Moreover, our results demonstrate that re‐isolation protocols could be applied to increase the amount of DNA recovered. The samples analysed were accurately genotyped with all the methods examined herein. In conclusion, our study shows that both DNA cards, IsoCode Cards® and FTA Classic Cards®, facilitate genetic and pharmacogenetic testing for routine clinical practice.
Effect of Umbelliferone on Tail Tendon Collagen and Haemostatic Function in Streptozotocin‐Diabetic Rats
Authors: Ramesh Balakrishnan , Pugalendi Kodukkur Viswanathan
Published: June 2007

Abstract:   Diabetes mellitus is known to affect collagen in various tissues. Umbelliferone (7‐hydroxycoumarin), a natural antioxidant and benzopyrone, is found in golden apple (Aegle marmelos Correa) and bitter orange (Citrus aurantium). Plant‐derived phenolic coumarins have been shown to act as dietary antioxidants. In this study, we have investigated the influence of umbelliferone on collagen content and its effects on the tail tendon in streptozotocin‐diabetic rats. Male albino Wistar rats (180–200 g) were made diabetic by intraperitoneal administration of streptozotocin (40 mg/kg). Normal and diabetic rats were treated with umbelliferone for 45 days. Diabetic rats had increased glucose and decreased insulin levels. Tail tendons of diabetic rats had increased total collagen, glycation and fluorescence, and decreased levels of neutral, acid and pepsin‐soluble collagens. We have studied the effect of umbelliferone on haemostatic function because umbelliferone is also a coumarin derivative like the anticoagulant, warfarin. Diabetic rats had a significant decrease in prothrombin, clotting and bleeding time, and treatment with umbelliferone made these parameters almost normal. Our results show that umbelliferone controls glycaemia and has a beneficial effect on collagen content and its properties, i.e. collagen related parameters, in the tail tendon, which indicates recovery from the risk (recovery of animals from the risk of complications) of collagen‐mediated diabetic polyneuropathy and diabetic nephropathy.
A Glossary of Terms and Definitions Used in Analytical Chemistry
Authors: Potts Philip J.
Published: June 2007

Definitions of common terms used in analytical chemistry are listed. Most have international approval through the International Organisation for Standardisation. Others are terms that have not yet received formal ISO approval, but have wide international support.
UV Laser Ablation ICP‐MS: Some Applications in the Earth Sciences
Authors: Nesbitt Robert W. , Hirata Takafumi , Butler Ian B. , Milton James A.
Published: June 2007

This study reports a series of applications of UV laser ablation ICP‐MS in the geological sciences. The advantages and disadvantages of the PQ “S” option and the use of nitrogen in the carrier gas are discussed. A general problem common to all ablation techniques is the calibration technique and experiments involving synthetic calibration samples are covered. Zircon geochemistry and geochronology by LA‐ICP‐MS are discussed and data are presented for REE, Hf and U for a standard zircon (91500) as well as a series of zircons from Zimbabwe. The potential of using Ce and Eu anomalies in petrologic studies is illustrated by zircons from a fractionated gabbroic‐granite in the Urals. The potential of the LA‐ICP‐MS method to utilise standard X‐ray fluorescence glass discs is demonstrated as a useful semi‐quantitative tool in determining REE patterns. LA‐ICP‐MS is a powerful tool in the analysis of the platinum group elements (and Re) and some examples are given in the successful application of the technique to partitioning in iron meteorites.
Preparation and Certification of High‐Grade Gold Ore Reference Materials (GAu 19‐22)
Authors: Gu Tiexin , Zhang Zhong , Wang Chunshu , Yan Weidong
Published: June 2007

Two types of gold deposit with both good homogeneity and a high‐grade of gold were selected to prepare four gold ore reference materials (GAu‐19,GAu‐20,GAu‐21 and GAu‐22) by the Institute of Geophysical and Geochemical Exploration (IGGE),China.Seven laboratories participated in the certification programme. Volumetric methods for GAu19‐21 and atomic absorption spectrometry for GAu‐22 were used for the homogeneity testing,the coefficient of variation being found to be less than 3%.After sample digestion and preconcentration,the samples were analysed by flame atomic absorption spectrometry (AAS),colorimetry,neutron activation analysis (NAA)and volumetric analysis. The certified values for the gold concentration in GAu19‐22 are 18.3 μg g ‐1, 32.3 μg g ‐1, 53.0 μg g ‐1 and 5.72 μg g ‐1,respectively.
Analysis of Sediments and Soils by X‐Ray Fluorescence Spectrometry Using Matrix Corrections Based on Fundamental Parameters
Authors: Enzweiler Jacinta , Vendemiatto Maria Aparecida
Published: June 2007

Wavelength dispersive X‐ray fluorescence spectrometry (WD‐XRF) is widely used for the analysis of soils and sediments using well characterised procedures. However, difficulties can occur with samples such as unknowns containing small amounts of ore materials and samples collected from contaminated sites where trace elemental concentrations can exceed the concentration range for routine analysis. We studied the performance of a commercially available method, based on fundamental parameters (FP) to correct matrix effects. The spectrometer was originally calibrated with elemental or simple compound calibrants. Samples were analysed as pressed powder pellets. Eighteen sediment and soil reference materials, three of them with certified values for some of their constituents, were used to evaluate accuracy, by comparing results with recommended values and their standard deviations (RV ± 2s) or certified values and their confidence intervals (CV ± Cl). When results fell systematically outside these intervals, calibrations were refined with geochemical reference materials. The best agreement of results with recommended and certified values was obtained when the contents of H2O and C in each sample were included as matrix constituents during calculations. The detection limits of trace elements tended to be relatively high, because the measuring conditions employed were not maximised for sensitivity. The main advantage of the method tested was that it enabled the analysis of samples with high concentrations of trace elements and the determination of elements such as F, Bi, Sb and W, which are not commonly included in quantitative XRF analysis of geological samples.
Book Reviews
Authors: Webb Peter , Alard Dr. Olivier
Published: June 2007

Environmental Aspects of Mine Wastes Mineralogical Association of Canada, Short Course

Fluid inclusions: Analysis and Interpretation
Transient receptor potential TRPA1 channel desensitization in sensory neurons is agonist dependent and regulated by TRPV1‐directed internalization
Authors: Akopian Armen N. , Ruparel Nikita B. , Jeske Nathaniel A. , Hargreaves Kenneth M.
Published: June 2007

The pharmacological desensitization of receptors is a fundamental mechanism for regulating the activity of neuronal systems. The TRPA1 channel plays a key role in the processing of noxious information and can undergo functional desensitization by unknown mechanisms. Here we show that TRPA1 is desensitized by homologous (mustard oil; a TRPA1 agonist) and heterologous (capsaicin; a TRPV1 agonist) agonists via Ca2+‐independent and Ca2+‐dependent pathways, respectively, in sensory neurons. The pharmacological desensitization of TRPA1 by capsaicin and mustard oil is not influenced by activation of protein phosphatase 2B. However, it is regulated by phosphatidylinositol‐4,5‐bisphosphate depletion after capsaicin, but not mustard oil, application. Using a biosensor, we establish that capsaicin, unlike mustard oil, consistently activates phospholipase C in sensory neurons. We next demonstrate that TRPA1 desensitization is regulated by TRPV1, and it appears that mustard oil‐induced TRPA1 internalization is prevented by coexpression with TRPV1 in a heterologous expression system and in sensory neurons. In conclusion, we propose novel mechanisms whereby TRPA1 activity undergoes pharmacological desensitization through multiple cellular pathways that are agonist dependent and modulated by TRPV1.
Linear Viscoelastic Creep Model for the Contact of Nominal Flat Surfaces Based on Fractal Geometry: Standard Linear Solid (SLS) Material
Authors: Abuzeid Osama M. , Eberhard Peter
Published: June 2007

The objective of this study is to construct a continuous mathematical model that describes the frictionless contact between a nominally flat (rough) viscoelastic punch and a perfectly rigid foundation. The material’s behavior is modeled by assuming a complex viscoelastic constitutive law, the standard linear solid (SLS) law. The model aims at studying the normal compliance (approach) of the punch surface, which will be assumed to be quasistatic, as a function of the applied creep load. The roughness of the punch surface is assumed to be fractal in nature. The Cantor set theory is utilized to model the roughness of the punch surface. An asymptotic power law is obtained, which associates the creep force applied and the approach of the fractal punch surface. This law is only valid if the approach is of the size of the surface roughness. The proposed model admits an analytical solution for the case when the deformation is linear viscoelastic. The modified analytical model shows a good agreement with experimental results available in the literature.
Stress Analysis of Thermal Fatigue Fracture of Brake Disks Based on Thermomechanical Coupling
Authors: Gao C. H. , Huang J. M. , Lin X. Z. , Tang X. S.
Published: June 2007

This paper develops a three-dimensional (3D) thermal-structure coupling model, implements transient stress analysis of thermoelastic contact of disk brakes with a frictional heat variation and identifies the source of the thermal fatigue. This thermostructure model allows the analysis of the effects of the moving heat source (the pad) with a variable speed and integrates the heat flux coupling between the sliding surfaces. To obtain the transient stress/temperature fields of the brake under an emergency braking, the thermoelastic problem under this 3D model is solved by the finite element method. The numerical results from the analysis and simulation show the temperature/stress of the disk presenting periodic sharp fluctuation due to the continuous cyclic loading; its varying frequency corresponds to the rotated cycle times of the braking disk. The results demonstrate that the maximum surface equivalent stress may exceed the material yield strength during an emergency braking, which may cause a plastic damage accumulation in a brake disk, while a residual tensile hoop stress is incurred on cooling. These results are validated by experimental observation results available in the literature. Based on these numerical results, some suggestions for avoiding fatigue fracture propagation are further presented.
A Kinetic Friction Model for Viscoelastic Contact of Nominally Flat Rough Surfaces
Authors: Farhang K. , Lim A.
Published: June 2007

Approximate closed-form equations are derived for normal and tangential contact forces of rough surfaces in dry friction. Using an extension of the Greenwood and Tripp (1970, Proc, Inst. Mech. Eng., 185, pp. 625–633) model, in which the derivations permit asperity shoulder-to-shoulder contact and viscoelastic asperity behavior, mathematical formulae are derived for normal and tangential components of the contact force that depend not only on the proximity of the two surfaces but also the rate of approach and relative sliding. A statistical approach is forwarded in which dependence of the asperity tangential contact force on relative tangential velocity of two asperities can be cast as corrective factors in the mathematical description of tangential force. In this regard two corrective coefficients are derived: force directionality corrective coefficient and force–velocity directionality corrective coefficient. The results show that for a moderate to high load ranges the contact force can be analytically described to within 20% accuracy of that from a numerical integration of the contact equations, well below the uncertainties due to surface profile measurement.
Experimental Study of Microtextured Surfaces Operating Under Thin-Film EHD Lubrication Conditions
Authors: Křupka I. , Hartl M.
Published: June 2007

The effect of microdents within thin elastohydrodynamics (EHD) contacts has been studied by two measurement techniques. Phase-shifting interferometry was used to obtain topography of microtextured surface and thin-film colorimetric interferometry provided detailed information about film thickness changes within a lubricated contact. The behavior of microdents has been observed for positive slide-to-roll ratios when the disk is moving faster than the microtextured ball. The depth of microdents has been found to play significant role as to the lubrication films efficiency. The presence of deep microdents within lubricated contact results in film thickness reduction downstream that can even cause lubrication film breakdown. As the depth of microdents is reduced, this effect diminishes and beneficial effect of microdents on film thickness formation has been observed. No such an effect of microdent depth on lubricant film shape has been observed in case of negative slide-to-roll conditions when microdents do not cause film thickness reduction regardless of their depths. Obtained results suggest that surface texturing using microdents of an appropriate depth could help to increase lubrication films capabilities.
Variation in winter diet of southern Beaufort Sea polar bears inferred from stable isotope analysis
Authors: Bentzen T.W. , Follmann E.H. , Amstrup S.C. , York G.S. , Wooller M.J. , O’Hara T.M.
Published: June 2007

Ringed seals ( Phoca hispida Schreber, 1775 = Pusa hispida (Schreber, 1775)) and bearded seals ( Erignathus barbatus (Erxleben, 1777)) represent the majority of the polar bear ( Ursus maritimus Phipps, 1774) annual diet. However, remains of lower trophic level bowhead whales ( Balaena mysticetus L., 1758) are available in the southern Beaufort Sea and their dietary contribution to polar bears has been unknown. We used stable isotope (13C/12C, δ13C,15N/14N, and δ15N) analysis to determine the diet composition of polar bears sampled along Alaska’s Beaufort Sea coast in March and April 2003 and 2004. The mean δ15N values of polar bear blood cells were 19.5‰ (SD = 0.7‰) in 2003 and 19.9‰ (SD = 0.7‰) in 2004. Mixing models indicated bowhead whales composed 11%–26% (95% CI) of the diets of sampled polar bears in 2003, and 0%–14% (95% CI) in 2004. This suggests significant variability in the proportion of lower trophic level prey in polar bear diets among individuals and between years. Polar bears depend on sea ice for hunting seals, and the temporal and spatial availabilities of sea ice are projected to decline. Consumption of low trophic level foods documented here suggests bears may increasingly scavenge such foods in the future.
VIRASORO MODULE STRUCTURE OF LOCAL MARTINGALES OF SLE VARIANTS
Authors: KYTÖLÄ KALLE
Published: June 2007

Martingales often play an important role in computations with Schramm–Loewner Evolutions (SLEs). The purpose of this article is to provide a straightforward approach to the Virasoro module structure of the space of local martingales for variants of SLEs. In the case of ordinary chordal SLE, it has been shown in Bauer and Bernard's Phys. Lett. B557 that polynomial local martingales form a Virasoro module. We will show for more general variants that the module of local martingales has a natural submodule [Formula: see text] that has the same interpretation as the module of polynomial local martingales of chordal SLE, but it is in many cases easy to find more local martingales than that. We discuss the surprisingly rich structure of the Virasoro module [Formula: see text] and construction of the "SLE state" or "martingale generating function" by Coulomb gas formalism. In addition, Coulomb gas or Feigin–Fuchs integrals will be shown to transparently produce candidates for multiple SLE pure geometries.
THE FREE ENTROPY DIMENSION OF SOME L∞[0,1]-CIRCULAR OPERATORS
Authors: DYKEMA KENNETH J. , TUCCI GABRIEL H.
Published: June 2007

We find the microstates free entropy dimension of all in a large class of L∞[0,1]-circular operators, in the presence of a generator of the diagonal subalgebra.
TRANSVERSELY PROJECTIVE FOLIATIONS ON SURFACES: EXISTENCE OF MINIMAL FORM AND PRESCRIPTION OF MONODROMY
Authors: LORAY FRANK , PEREIRA JORGE VITÓRIO
Published: June 2007

We introduce a notion of minimal form for transversely projective structures of singular foliations on complex manifolds. Our first main result says that this minimal form exists and is unique when ambient space is two-dimensional. From this result, one obtains a natural way to produce invariants for transversely projective foliations on surfaces. Our second main result says that on projective surfaces one can construct singular transversely projective foliations with prescribed monodromy.
Effects of Extended Tai Chi Intervention on Balance and Selected Motor Functions of the Elderly
Authors: Li Yuhua , Devault Cheri N. , Van Oteghen Sharon
Published: June 2007

Balance ability decreases with age, which results in an increased risk of falls for people over age 65. Tai Chi exercise appears to offer potential benefits in the reduction of falls for the elderly. The purpose of the present study was to examine the effects of extended (6- and 12-month) Tai Chi exercise interventions on balance and selected motor functions for senior citizens. Forty-seven subjects were recruited from two local senior centers. Twenty of them ( M = 71.8 years, SD = 7.1), 11 in the Tai Chi exercise group and 9 in the control group, completed the pre-, mid- and post-tests over 12 months on five selected functional performance tests: static balance, dynamic balance, choice reaction time, heel-rise strength, and ankle flexibility. The Tai Chi group was provided with a one-hour Tai Chi exercise session per week for 12 months; the control group did not participate in any exercise program. Results showed that static balance improved significantly after a 6-month Tai Chi intervention. Moreover, the Tai Chi group maintained a higher level in the test performance compared with the control group at the end of the 12-month intervention, but there was no significant difference between the two groups. Data suggested that Tai Chi exercise intervention could produce a positive influence on balance control for the elderly over a prolonged period, but not on muscle strength and ankle flexibility.
Protective Effect ofHouttuynia cordataExtract on Bleomycin-Induced Pulmonary Fibrosis in Rats
Authors: Ng Lean-Teik , Yen Feng-Lin , Liao Chia-Wen , Lin Chun-Ching
Published: June 2007

The present study aimed to examine the antioxidant properties of Houttuynia cordata (HC) and its protective effect on bleomycin-induced pulmonary fibrosis in rats. Results showed that aqueous extract of HC exhibited a different magnitude of antioxidant activities in all model systems tested. Although HC showed weaker free radical scavenging and xanthine oxidase inhibitory activity than vitamin E, its anti-lipid peroxidation activity in rat liver homogenate was close to that of vitamin E. In animal studies, HC significantly decreased the levels of superoxide dismutase, malondialdehyde, hydroxyproline, interferon-γ, and tumor necrosis factor-α. However, an increase in the concentration of catalase was noted in the bronchoalveolar lavage fluid. HC also remarkably improved the morphological appearance of the lung of bleomycin-treated rats. These results suggest that HC possesses a protective effect against bleomycin-induced pulmonary fibrosis. Interestingly, this protective effect was more pronounced than that of vitamin E. In conclusion, the protective effect of HC on pulmonary fibrosis could be partly associated with the reduction of oxidative damage caused by bleomycin.
Anticariogenic Properties of the Extract ofCyperus rotundus
Authors: Yu Hyeon-Hee , Lee Da-Hong , Seo Se-Jeong , You Yong-Ouk
Published: June 2007

Streptococcus mutans (S. mutans) is known as the causative bacteria in the formation of dental plaque and dental caries. The aim of this experiment was to investigate the effects of Cyperus rotundus (C. rotundus) tuber extract on the growth, acid production, adhesion, and water-insoluble glucan synthesis of S. mutans. The growth and acid production were reduced by the extract of C. rotundus in a dose dependent manner. The extract of C. rotundus markedly inhibited the adherence of S. mutans to saliva-coated hydroxyapatite beads (HAs). The adherence was repressed by more than 50% at the concentration of 0.5 mg/ml of the extract and complete inhibition was observed at the concentration of 4 mg/ml of the extract. On the activity of glucosyltransferase (GTFase) which synthesizes water-insoluble glucan from sucrose, the extract of C. rotundus showed more than 10% inhibition at a concentration of 2 mg/ml. These results suggest that C. rotundus may inhibit cariogenic properties of S. mutans. Further studies are necessary to clarify the active constituents of C. rotundus responsible for such biomolecular activities.
WAITING TIME OF M/D1,∞/1 QUEUE
Authors: CHANG WOOJIN
Published: June 2007

In this paper, we consider a single-server infinite capacity queue with Poisson arrival. The server takes all waiting customers as a batch into service, and the service time of the kth customer in a batch is a + b × k, where a and b are the set-up time and the individual service time for each customer, respectively. The steady-state mean and variance of waiting time of an arbitrary customer are obtained. Simulation results confirm our analysis.
CAN THE 2-FLAVOR CHIRAL TRANSITION BE OF FIRST ORDER?
Authors: DIGAL SANATAN
Published: June 2007

Using an effective model for the quantum chromodynamics we study the color deconfinement effects on the chiral transition. We argue that effects of the color deconfinement are important in the chiral limit. As an example we consider in detail the case of two flavors of massless quarks and find that the corresponding chiral transition can be of first order due to the effects of color deconfinement. This is contrary to the conventional expectations that 2-flavor chiral transition is of second order.
SPACE SECTIONS RELATIVE TO A NONINERTIAL FRAME IN MINKOWSKI SPACE–TIME
Authors: FELIX DA SILVA PATRICIO J. , DAHIA F.
Published: June 2007

We define new coordinates using the family of accelerated Rindler observers in Minkowski space–time and study the spatial sections (hypersurfaces of simultaneity) adapted to the noninertial frame that arises from our definition. We show that the geometry of the spatial sections is not Euclidean. Owing to this feature, the new noninertial frame can be employed to illustrate, in a simple way, the connection between acceleration and non-Euclidean geometry in the relativistic context.
FROM PENALIZED MAXIMUM LIKELIHOOD TO CLUSTER ANALYSIS: A UNIFIED PROBABILISTIC FRAMEWORK OF CLUSTERING
Authors: SUN XICHEN , CHENG QIANSHENG , FENG JUFU
Published: June 2007

A unified probabilistic framework (UPF) of partitional clustering algorithms is proposed based on Penalized Maximum Likelihood. Besides Gaussian Mixture model methods, many popular clustering methods, such as Fuzzy c-Means Algorithm (FCM), Attribute Means Clustering (AMC), General c-Means Clustering (GCM), and Deterministic Annealing (DA) Clustering can be explained as special cases within UPF. Furthermore, this UPF framework provides a general approach to design comparatively stable and effectively regularized clustering algorithms.
A FUZZY LOGIC BASED APPROACH FOR SOFTWARE TESTING
Authors: ZHANG ZILI , ZHOU YANHUI
Published: June 2007

How to provide cost-effective strategies for Software Testing has been one of the research focuses in Software Engineering for a long time. Many researchers in Software Engineering have addressed the effectiveness and quality metric of Software Testing, and many interesting results have been obtained. However, one issue of paramount importance in software testing — the intrinsic imprecise and uncertain relationships within testing metrics — is left unaddressed. To this end, a new quality and effectiveness measurement based on fuzzy logic is proposed. Related issues like the software quality features and fuzzy reasoning for test project similarity measurement are discussed, which can deal with quality and effectiveness consistency between different test projects. Experiments were conducted to verify the proposed measurement using real data from actual software testing projects. Experimental results show that the proposed fuzzy logic based metrics is effective and efficient to measure and evaluate the quality and effectiveness of test projects.
MODIFIED QUANTILE BASED ONLINE NOISE ADAPTATION METHOD FOR A ROBUST SPEECH RECOGNITION INTERFACE
Authors: LEE HEUNGKYU , KIM JUNE
Published: June 2007

This paper proposes the online noise model adaptation technique using the modified quantile based noise estimation method for feature compensation of noisy speech that is based on the Gaussian mixture model for a robust speech recognition interface in real car environments. The proposed method is designed for an active online model adaptation method to cope with varying environmental noise conditions, and enhance speech recognition accuracy. This method is compensated on logarithmic filter-bank energies domain, and modified quantile based noise estimation method using beta-order harmonic mean is employed to the online noise estimation procedure. Experimental evaluation is done by using Aurora 2 speech database, and robust results were obtained than from other comparative algorithms.
THE CONVEX HULL OF SELF-SIMILAR SETS IN ℝ3
Authors: FERRARI MARIANO
Published: June 2007

We give a characterization of the convex hull of self-similar sets in ℝ3 which extends the results of Panzone1 in ℝ2. As an application, we show a convex set which cannot correspond to the convex hull of a self-similar set.
FRACTAL CHARACTERIZATION OF FERMENTATIONS WITH BUDDING YEAST UNDER DETERMINISTIC AND CHAOTIC CONDITIONS
Authors: PATNAIK PRATAP R.
Published: June 2007

Time series data of many biological processes are amenable to fractal analysis. In this study, fractal dimensions were calculated for continuous cultures of Saccharomyces cerevisiae with (1) no noise in the feed stream, (2) noise inflow but no filtering, and (3) with noise and an extended Kalman filter. Each situation was analyzed for dilution rates and the gas-liquid mass transfer coefficients for oxygen under which monotonic, oscillatory and chaotic outputs were generated. The fractal dimensions were compatible with the nature of the time-domain profiles and were sensitive to changes in the profiles and to the presence or absence of noise and a filter. Together with similar results for Escherichia coli, the fractal dimension thus appears to be a convenient and reliable index of fermentation performance.
PONTRJAGIN FORMS AND INVARIANT OBJECTS RELATED TO THE Q-CURVATURE
Authors: BRANSON THOMAS , GOVER A. ROD
Published: June 2007

It was shown by Chern and Simons that the Pontrjagin forms are conformally invariant. We show them to be the Pontrjagin forms of the conformally invariant tractor connection. The Q-curvature is intimately related to the Pfaffian. Working on even-dimensional manifolds, we show how the k-form operators Qkof [12], which generalize the Q-curvature, retain a key aspect of the Q-curvature's relation to the Pfaffian, by obstructing certain representations of natural operators on closed forms. In a closely related direction, we show that the Qkgive rise to conformally invariant quadratic forms Θkon cohomology that interpolate, in a suitable sense, between the integrated metric pairing (at k = n/2) and the Pfaffian (at k = 0). Using a different construction, we show that the Qkoperators yield a map from conformal structures to Lagrangian subspaces of the direct sum Hk⊕ Hk(where Hkis the dual of the de Rham cohomology space Hk); in an appropriate sense this generalizes the period map. We couple the Qkoperators with the Pontrjagin forms to construct new natural densities that have many properties in common with the original Q-curvature; in particular these integrate to global conformal invariants. We also work out a relevant example, and show that the proof of the invariance of the (nonlinear) action functional whose critical metrics have constant Q-curvature extends to the action functionals for these new Q-like objects. Finally we set up eigenvalue problems that generalize to Qk-operators the Q-curvature prescription problem.
DIRAC EQUATION WITH CERTAIN QUADRATIC NONLINEARITIES IN ONE SPACE DIMENSION
Authors: MACHIHARA SHUJI
Published: June 2007

We discuss the time local existence of solutions to the Dirac equation for special types of quadratic nonlinearities in one space dimension. Solutions with more rough data than those of the previous work [15] are obtained. The Fourier transforms of solutions with respect to both variables x and t are investigated. Certain linear and bilinear estimates on solutions are derived, and a standard iteration argument gives the existence results.
APPLICATION OF DISTRIBUTED DETECTION METHOD FOR GROUND MOVING TARGETS IN SENSOR NETWORKS
Authors: CAO HONGBING , WEI JIANMING , XING TAO , LIU HAITAO
Published: June 2007

This paper considers the problem of detecting ground moving targets in a wireless sensor network for military surveillance application. The sensor nodes are severely constrained in both power and computational performance, and the battle field environments are commonly very complicated. A modified order statistic constant false alarm rate (OS-CFAR) detection algorithm and its distributed detection algorithm were chosen to be implemented on sensor nodes. The algorithm includes background estimate and adaptive threshold. The experimental results with real acoustic and seismic data indicate that the OS-CFAR is robust and flexible and distributed algorithm can improve the detection performance somewhat.
A NOVEL WATER–SLUDGE INTERFACE DATA TRANSFER SYSTEM APPLYING ZIGBEE WIRELESS NETWORK
Authors: SUN JINSHENG , WANG NING , LIU LIPING
Published: June 2007

This paper points out the disadvantages of a formerly proposed data transfer mode used in the monitoring system of WTP. A data transmit solution which uses ZigBee wireless communication standard is proposed, and the technical characteristic of ZigBee technology is introduced. The hardware structure and software design are presented. The paper emphasizes on the realization of ZigBee protocol and data communication flow. The experimental results show that ZigBee is suitable for the wireless data transmission in the WTP. The reliable transmission of data to the control center of WTP has been realized in some in situ applications.
Resveratrol-induced inhibition of insulin secretion from rat pancreatic islets: evidence for pivotal role of metabolic disturbances
Authors: Szkudelski Tomasz
Published: June 2007

Resveratrol is a stilbene present in different plant species and exerting numerous beneficial effects, including prevention of diabetes and attenuation of some diabetic complications. Its inhibitory effect on insulin secretion was recently documented, but the exact mechanism underlying this action remains unknown. Experiments employing diazoxide and a high concentration of K+revealed that, in depolarized pancreatic islets incubated for 90 min with resveratrol (1, 10, and 100 μM), insulin secretion stimulated by glucose and leucine was impaired. The attenuation of the insulin secretory response to 6.7 mM glucose was not abrogated by blockade of intracellular estrogen receptors and was found to be accompanied by diminished islet glucose oxidation, enhanced lactate production, and reduced ATP levels. Glucose-induced hyperpolarization of the mitochondrial membrane was also reduced in the presence of resveratrol. Moreover, in depolarized islets incubated with 2.8 mM glucose, activation of protein kinase C or protein kinase A potentiated insulin release; however, under these conditions, resveratrol was ineffective. Further studies also revealed that, under conditions of blocked voltage-dependent calcium channels, the stilbene reduced insulin secretion induced by a combination of glucose with forskolin. These data demonstrate that resveratrol 1) inhibits the amplifying pathway of insulin secretion, 2) exerts an insulin-suppressive effect independently of its estrogenic/anti-estrogenic activity, 3) shifts islet glucose metabolism from mitochondrial oxidation to anaerobic, 4) fails to abrogate insulin release promoted without metabolic events, and 5) does not suppress hormone secretion as a result of the direct inhibition of Ca2+influx through voltage-dependent calcium channels.
Mechanisms underlying mechanosensitivity of mesenteric afferent fibers to vascular flow
Authors: Brunsden A. M. , Brookes S. J. H. , Bardhan K. D. , Grundy D.
Published: June 2007

Spinal afferent neurons, with endings in the intestinal mesenteries, have been shown to respond to changes in vascular perfusion rates. The mechanisms underlying this sensitivity were investigated in an in vitro preparation of the mesenteric fan devoid of connections with the gut wall. Afferent discharge increased when vascular perfusion was stopped (“flow off”), a response localized to the terminal vessels just prior to where they entered the gut wall. The flow-off response was compared following pharmacological manipulations designed to determine direct mechanical activation from indirect mechanisms via the vascular endothelium or muscle. Under Ca2+-free conditions, responses to flow off were significantly augmented. In contrast, the myosin light chain kinase inhibitor wortmannin (1 μM, 20 min) did not affect the flow-off response despite blocking the vasoconstriction evoked by 10 μM l-phenylephrine. This ruled out active tension, generated by vascular smooth muscle, in the response to flow off. Passive changes caused by vessel collapse during flow off were speculated to affect sensory nerve terminals directly. The flow-off response was not affected by the N-, P-, and Q-type Ca2+ channel blocker ω-conotoxin MVIIC (1 μM intra-arterially) or the P2X receptor/ion channel blocker PPADS (50 μM). However, ruthenium red (50 μM), a blocker of nonselective cation channels, greatly reduced the flow-off response and also abolished the vasodilator response to capsaicin. Our data support the concept that mesenteric afferents sense changes in vascular flow during flow off through direct mechanisms, possibly involving nonselective cation channels. Passive distortion in the fan, caused by changes in blood flow, may represent a natural stimulus for these afferents in vivo.
Preoptic nitric oxide attenuates endotoxic fever in guinea pigs by inhibiting the POA release of norepinephrine
Authors: Feleder Carlos , Perlik Vit , Blatteis Clark M.
Published: June 2007

Lipopolysaccharide (LPS) administration induces hypothalamic nitric oxide (NO); NO is antipyretic in the preoptic area (POA), but its mechanism of action is uncertain. LPS also stimulates the release of preoptic norepinephrine (NE), which mediates fever onset. Because NE upregulates NO synthases and NO induces cyclooxygenase (COX)-2-dependent PGE2, we investigated whether NO mediates the production of this central fever mediator. Conscious guinea pigs with intra-POA microdialysis probes received LPS intravenously (2 μg/kg) and, thereafter, an NO donor (SIN-1) or scavenger (carboxy-PTIO) intra-POA (20 μg/μl each, 2 μl/min, 6 h). Core temperature (Tc) was monitored constantly; dialysate NE and PGE2 were analyzed in 30-min collections. To verify the reported involvement of α2-adrenoceptors (AR) in PGE2 production, clonidine (α2-AR agonist, 2 μg/μl) was microdialyzed with and without SIN-1 or carboxy-PTIO. To assess the possible involvement of oxidative NE and/or NO products in the demonstrated initially COX-2-independent POA PGE2 increase, (+)-catechin (an antioxidant, 3 μg/μl) was microdialyzed, and POA PGE2, and Tc were determined. SIN-1 and carboxy-PTIO reduced and enhanced, respectively, the rises in NE, PGE2, and Tc produced by intravenous LPS. Similarly, they prevented and increased, respectively, the delayed elevations of PGE2 and Tc induced by intra-POA clonidine. (+)-Catechin prevented the LPS-induced elevation of PGE2, but not of Tc. We conclude that the antipyretic activity of NO derives from its inhibitory modulation of the LPS-induced release of POA NE. These data also implicate free radicals in POA PGE2 production and raise questions about its role as a central LPS fever mediator.
Calpain-3 is autolyzed and hence activated in human skeletal muscle 24 h following a single bout of eccentric exercise
Authors: Murphy Robyn M. , Goodman Craig A. , McKenna Michael J. , Bennie Jason , Leikis Murray , Lamb Graham D.
Published: June 2007

The function and normal regulation of calpain-3, a muscle-specific Ca2+-dependent protease, is uncertain, although its absence leads to limb-girdle muscular dystrophy type 2A. This study examined the effect of eccentric exercise on calpain-3 autolytic activation, because such exercise is known to damage sarcomeric structures and to trigger adaptive changes that help prevent such damage on subsequent exercise. Six healthy human subjects performed a 30-min bout of one-legged, eccentric, knee extensor exercise. Torque measurements, vastus lateralis muscle biopsies, and venous blood samples were taken before and up to 7 days following the exercise. Peak isometric muscle torque was depressed immediately and at 3 h postexercise and recovered by 24 h, and serum creatine kinase concentration peaked at 24 h postexercise. The amount of autolyzed calpain-3 was unchanged immediately and 3 h after exercise, but increased markedly (from ∼16% to ∼35% of total) 24 h after the exercise, and returned to preexercise levels within 7 days. In contrast, the eccentric exercise produced little autolytic activation of the ubiquitous Ca2+-activated protease, μ-calpain. Eccentric exercise is the first physiological circumstance shown to result in calpain-3 activation in vivo.
Vimentin and Epithelial-Mesenchymal Transition in Human Breast Cancer – Observations in vitro and in vivo
Authors: Kokkinos Maria I. , Wafai Razan , Wong Meng Kang , Newgreen Donald F. , Thompson Erik W. , Waltham Mark
Published: June 2007

Breast cancer is a highly prevalent disease among women worldwide. While the expression of certain proteins within these tumours is used for prognosis and selection of therapies, there is a continuing need for additional markers to be identified. A considerable amount of current literature, based predominantly on cell culture systems, suggests that a major mechanism responsible for the progression of breast cancer is due to tumour cells losing their epithelial features and gaining mesenchymal properties. These events are proposed to be very similar to the epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) process that has been well characterised in embryonic development. For the developmental and putative cancer EMT, the cell intermediate filament status changes from a keratin-rich network which connects to adherens junctions and hemidesmosomes, to a vimentin-rich network connecting to focal adhesions. This review summarises observations of vimentin expression in breast cancer model systems, and discusses the potential role of EMT in human breast cancer progression, and the prognostic usefulness of vimentin expression.