bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Analytical Modeling and Experimental Verification of the Vibrations of the Zigzag Microstructure for Energy Harvesting
Authors: Karami M. Amin , Inman Daniel J.
Published: December 2010

This paper addresses an issue in energy harvesting that has plagued the potential use of harvesting through the piezoelectric effect at the micro-electro-mechanical systems (MEMS) scale. Effective energy harvesting devices typically consist of a cantilever beam substrate coated with a thin layer of piezoceramic material and fixed with a tip mass tuned to resonant at the dominant frequency of the ambient vibration. The fundamental natural frequency of a beam increases as its length decreases, so that at the MEMS scale the resonance condition occurs orders of magnitude higher than ambient vibration frequencies, rendering the harvester ineffective. Here, we propose a new geometry for MEMS scale cantilever harvesters with low fundamental frequencies. A “zigzag” geometry is proposed, modeled, and solved to show that such a structure would be able to vibrate near resonance at the MEMS scale. An analytical solution is presented and verified against Rayleigh’s method and is validated against a macroscale experiment. The analysis is used to provide design guidelines and parametric studies for constructing an effective MEMS scale energy harvesting device in the frequency range common to low frequency ambient vibrations, removing a current barrier.
A Determination of the Cloud Feedback from Climate Variations over the Past Decade
Authors: Dessler A. E.
Published: December 2010

Positive Message

Climate warming affects both cloud number and cloud properties, which in turn affect warming itself, creating a cloud-climate feedback that complicates predictions of the amount of warming caused by increasing concentrations of atmospheric carbon dioxide. This feedback has generally been considered to be positive, but so far we have only a qualitative idea of the effect.
Dessler
(p.
1523
; see the news story by

Kerr

) estimated the magnitude of the feedback by analyzing 10 years of satellite data on the flux of radiation through the top of the atmosphere. As expected, the feedback is positive and within the canonical range of estimates of how much warming will occur for a doubling of atmospheric CO
2
: 2°C to 4.5°C.
Nebulin and N-WASP Cooperate to Cause IGF-1–Induced Sarcomeric Actin Filament Formation
Authors: Takano Kazunori , Watanabe-Takano Haruko , Suetsugu Shiro , Kurita Souichi , Tsujita Kazuya , Kimura Sumiko , Karatsu Takashi , Takenawa Tadaomi , Endo Takeshi
Published: December 2010

Muscle Building

The signaling mechanisms involved in actin filament formation for myofibril formation, which is required for growth factor-induced muscle maturation and hypertrophy, remain unclear.

Takano
et al.

(p.
1536
; see the Perspective by

Gautel and Ehler

) now show that the mechanism involves the interaction of nebulin and N-WASP. N-WASP is an activator of the Arp2/3 complex, which induces branched actin filaments in nonmuscle cells. The nebulin–N-WASP complex formed in muscle, however, causes nucleation of unbranched actin filaments within myofibrils without the Arp2/3 complex. Nebulin–N-WASP–mediated myofibrillar actin filament formation is required for muscle hypertrophy and might explain a congenital hereditary neuromuscular disorder caused by nebulin gene mutation: nemaline myopathy.
Genome Evolution in Plant Pathogens
Authors: Dodds Peter N.
Published: December 2010

Pathogen genes that shut down specific host plant immune responses are highly divergent and have evolved rapidly to accommodate adaptation.
Veronica Rodrigues (1953–2010)
Authors: VijayRaghavan K. , Bate Michael
Published: December 2010

A charismatic developmental biologist inspired a new generation of scientists and research institutes in India.
To Fight Illegal Fishing, Forensic DNA Gets Local
Authors: Stokstad Erik
Published: December 2010

A new generation of genetic tests could give authorities a much better idea of exactly where fish have been caught.
What Shall We Do With the X-ray Laser?
Authors: Cho Adrian
Published: December 2010

A newfangled x-ray source exceeds expectations in creating new conditions of matter, probing materials, and deciphering the structures of proteins.
Chesapeake Crabs: Engineering a Rebound
Authors: Pala Christopher
Published: December 2010

A new strategy to selectively spare pregnant females has brought the Chesapeake Bay crab population back from a precipitous collapse in just 3 years.
Disseminated Human Conidiobolomycosis Due to Conidiobolus lamprauges
Authors: Kimura Masatomo , Yaguchi Takashi , Sutton Deanna A. , Fothergill Annette W. , Thompson Elizabeth H. , Wickes Brian L.
Published: December 2010

We describe a disseminated fungal infection by
Conidiobolus lamprauges
in a patient with malignant lymphoma. Histopathology and mycological studies were performed, along with molecular analyses. This is the first record of this species causing human disease and the fifth reported disseminated infection by a
Conidiobolus
sp. in humans.
Shiga-Toxigenic Escherichia coli Detection in Stool Samples Screened for Viral Gastroenteritis in Alberta, Canada
Authors: Couturier Marc Roger , Lee Bonita , Zelyas Nathan , Chui Linda
Published: December 2010

Shiga-toxigenicEscherichia coli(STEC) is an important cause of diarrheal disease. The most notorious STEC serotype is O157:H7, which is associated with hemorrhagic colitis and hemolytic-uremic syndrome (HUS). As a result, this serotype is routinely screened for in clinical microbiology laboratories. With the bias toward the identification of the O157 serogroup in routine diagnostic processes, non-O157 STEC has been largely underrepresented in the epidemiology of STEC infections. This diagnostic bias is further complicated by the fact that many non-O157 STEC infections cause nonspecific gastroenteritis symptoms reminiscent of enteric viral infections. In this study, real-time PCR was used to amplify Shiga toxin genetic determinants (stx1andstx2) from enriched stool samples that were initially submitted for the testing of enteric viruses in patients with suspected viral gastroenteritis between May and September of 2006, 2007, and 2008 (n= 2,702). Samples were submitted from the province of Alberta, Yukon, the Northwest Territories, and Nunavut, Canada. A total of 38 samples (1.4%) tested positive for Shiga toxin genes, and 15 isolates were cultured for further characterization. Several of the serotypes identified (O157:H7, O26:HNM, O26:H11, O103:H25, O121:H19, and O145:HNM) have been previously associated with outbreaks and HUS. This study outlines the importance of combining molecular methods with classical culture techniques to enhance the detection of emerging non-O157 as well as O157 serotypes in diarrheal stool samples. Furthermore, atypical diarrhea disease caused by non-O157 STEC can be routinely missed due to screening only for viral agents.
Aptima HPV E6/E7 mRNA Test Is as Sensitive as Hybrid Capture 2 Assay but More Specific at Detecting Cervical Precancer and Cancer
Authors: Ratnam Samuel , Coutlee Francois , Fontaine Dan , Bentley James , Escott Nicholas , Ghatage Prafull , Gadag Veeresh , Holloway Glen , Bartellas Elias , Kum Nick , Giede Christopher , Lear Adrian
Published: December 2010

Detection of human papillomavirus (HPV) E6/E7 oncogene expression may be more predictive of cervical cancer risk than testing for HPV DNA. The Aptima HPV test (Gen-Probe) detects E6/E7 mRNA of 14 oncogenic types. Its clinical performance was compared with that of the Hybrid Capture 2 DNA test (HC2; Qiagen) in women referred for colposcopy and those routinely screened. Aptima was also compared with the PreTect HPV-Proofer E6/E7 mRNA assay (Proofer; Norchip) in the referral population. Cervical specimens collected in PreservCyt (Hologic Inc.) were processed for HPV detection and genotyping with the Linear Array (LA) method (Roche Molecular Diagnostics, Laval, Quebec, Canada). Histology-confirmed high-grade cervical intraepithelial neoplasia (CIN 2) or worse (CIN 2+) served as the disease endpoint. On the basis of 1,418 referral cases (CIN 2+,
n
= 401), the sensitivity of Aptima was 96.3% (95% confidence interval [CI], 94.4, 98.2), whereas it was 94.3% (95% CI, 92.0, 96.6) for HC2. The specificities were 43.2% (95% CI, 40.2, 46.2) and 38.7% (95% CI, 35.7, 41.7), respectively (
P
< 0.05). In 1,373 women undergoing routine screening (CIN 2+,
n
= 7), both Aptima and HC2 showed 100% sensitivity, and the specificities were 88.3% (95% CI, 86.6, 90.0) and 85.3% (95% CI, 83.5, 87.3), respectively (
P
< 0.05); for women ≥30 years of age (
n
= 845), the specificities were 93.9% (95% CI, 92.3, 95.5) and 92.1% (95% CI, 90.3, 93.9), respectively (
P
< 0.05). On the basis of 818 referral cases (CIN 2+,
n
= 235), the sensitivity of Aptima was 94.9% (95% CI, 92.1, 97.7) and that of Proofer was 79.1% (95% CI, 73.9, 84.3), and the specificities were 45.8% (95% CI, 41.8, 49.8) and 75.1% (95% CI, 71.6, 78.6), respectively (
P
< 0.05). Both Aptima and Proofer showed a higher degree of agreement with LA genotyping than HC2. In conclusion, the Aptima test is as sensitive as HC2 but more specific for detecting CIN 2+ and can serve as a reliable test for both primary cervical cancer screening and the triage of borderline cytological abnormalities.
Characterization of the Betaherpesviral pUL69 Protein Family Reveals Binding of the Cellular mRNA Export Factor UAP56 as a Prerequisite for Stimulation of Nuclear mRNA Export and for Efficient Viral Replication
Authors: Zielke Barbara , Thomas Marco , Giede-Jeppe Antje , Müller Regina , Stamminger Thomas
Published: December 2010

UL69 of human cytomegalovirus (HCMV) encodes a pleiotropic transactivator protein and has a counterpart in every member of the
Herpesviridae
family thus far sequenced. However, little is known about the conservation of the functions of the nuclear phosphoprotein pUL69 in the homologous proteins of other betaherpesviruses. Therefore, eukaryotic expression vectors were constructed for pC69 of chimpanzee cytomegalovirus, pRh69 of rhesus cytomegalovirus, pM69 of murine cytomegalovirus, pU42 of human herpesvirus 6, and pU42 of elephant endotheliotropic herpesvirus. Indirect immunofluorescence experiments showed that all pUL69 homologs expressed by these vectors were localized to the cell nucleus. Coimmunoprecipitation experiments identified homodimerization as a conserved feature of all homologs, whereas heterodimerization with pUL69 was restricted to its closer relatives. Further analyses demonstrated that pC69 and pRh69 were the only two homologs that functioned, like pUL69, as viral-mRNA export factors. As we had reported recently that nucleocytoplasmic shuttling and interaction with the cellular DExD/H-box helicases UAP56 and URH49 were prerequisites for the nuclear-mRNA export activity of pUL69, the homologs were characterized with regard to these properties. Heterokaryon assays demonstrated nucleocytoplasmic shuttling for all homologs, and coimmunoprecipitation and mRNA export assays revealed that the interaction of UAP56 and/or URH49 with pC69 or pRh69 was required for mRNA export activity. Moreover, characterization of HCMV recombinants harboring mutations within the N-terminal sequence of pUL69 revealed a strong replication defect of viruses expressing pUL69 variants that were deficient in UAP56 binding. In summary, homodimerization and nucleocytoplasmic shuttling activity were identified as conserved features of betaherpesviral pUL69 homologs. UAP56 binding was shown to represent a unique characteristic of members of the genus
Cytomegalovirus
that is required for efficient replication of HCMV.
Molecular Interactions of Epstein-Barr Virus Capsid Proteins
Authors: Wang Wen-Hung , Chang Li-Kwan , Liu Shih-Tung
Published: December 2010

The capsids of herpesviruses, which comprise major and minor capsid proteins, have a common icosahedral structure with 162 capsomers. An electron microscopic study shows that Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) capsids in the nucleus are immunolabeled by anti-BDLF1 and anti-BORF1 antibodies, indicating that BDLF1 and BORF1 are the minor capsid proteins of EBV. Cross-linking and electrophoresis studies of purified BDLF1 and BORF1 revealed that these two proteins form a triplex that is similar to that formed by the minor capsid proteins, VP19C and VP23, of herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1). Although the interaction between VP23, a homolog of BDLF1, and the major capsid protein VP5 could not be verified biochemically in earlier studies, the interaction between BDLF1 and the EBV major capsid protein, viral capsid antigen (VCA), can be confirmed by glutathione
S
-transferase (GST) pulldown assay and coimmunoprecipitation. Additionally, in HSV-1, VP5 interacts with only the middle region of VP19C; in EBV, VCA interacts with both the N-terminal and middle regions of BORF1, a homolog of VP19C, revealing that the proteins in the EBV triplex interact with the major capsid protein differently from those in HSV-1. A GST pulldown study also identifies the oligomerization domains in VCA and the dimerization domain in BDLF1. The results presented herein reveal how the EBV capsid proteins interact and thereby improve our understanding of the capsid structure of the virus.
Loss of the Type I Interferon Pathway Increases Vulnerability of Mice to Genital Herpes Simplex Virus 2 Infection
Authors: Conrady Christopher D. , Halford William P. , Carr Daniel J. J.
Published: December 2010

The mouse model of genital herpes relies on medoxyprogesterone treatment of female mice to render the vaginal lumen susceptible to inoculation with herpes simplex virus 2 (HSV-2). In the present study, we report that mice deficient in the A1 chain of the type I interferon receptor (CD118−/−) are susceptible to HSV-2 in the absence of medroxyprogesterone preconditioning. In the absence of hormone pretreatment, 2,000 PFU of a clinical isolate of HSV-2 was sufficient to establish a productive infection in the vagina of 75% ± 17% and in the spinal cord of 71% ± 14% of CD118−/−mice, whereas the same dose of HSV-2 replicated to detectable levels in only 13% ± 13% of vaginal samples and 0% of spinal cord samples from wild-type mice, as determined at day 5 postinfection. The susceptibility to HSV-2 infection in the CD118−/−mice was associated with a significant reduction in the infiltration of HSV-specific cytotoxic T lymphocytes into the vaginal tissue, the local production of gamma interferon (IFN-γ), and the expression of T cell-recruiting chemokines CCL5, CXCL9, and CXCL10. Collectively, the results underscore the significant contribution of type I IFNs in resistance to genital HSV-2 infection.
Parainfluenza Virus 5 M Protein Interaction with Host Protein 14-3-3 Negatively Affects Virus Particle Formation
Authors: Pei Zifei , Harrison Megan S. , Schmitt Anthony P.
Published: December 2010

Paramyxovirus matrix (M) proteins organize virus assembly, linking viral glycoproteins and viral ribonucleoproteins together at virus assembly sites on cellular membranes. Using a yeast two-hybrid screening approach, we identified 14-3-3 as a binding partner for the M protein of parainfluenza virus 5 (PIV5). Binding in both transfected and PIV5-infected cells was confirmed by coimmunoprecipitation and was mapped to a C-terminal region within the M protein, namely, 366-KTKSLP-371. This sequence resembles known 14-3-3 binding sites, in which the key residue for binding is a phosphorylated serine residue. Mutation of S369 within the PIV5 M protein disrupted 14-3-3 binding and improved the budding of both virus-like particles (VLPs) and recombinant viruses, suggesting that 14-3-3 binding impairs virus budding. 14-3-3 protein overexpression reduced the budding of VLPs. Using
33
P labeling, phosphorylated M protein was detected in PIV5-infected cells, and this phosphorylation was nearly absent in cells infected with a recombinant virus harboring an S369A mutation within the M protein. Assembly of the M protein into clusters and filaments at infected cell surfaces was enhanced in cells infected with a recombinant virus defective in 14-3-3 binding. These findings support a model in which a portion of M protein within PIV5-infected cells is phosphorylated at residue S369, binds the 14-3-3 protein, and is held away from sites of virus budding.
Improved synthesis and study of acidic properties of ‘plugs’-containing Al-SBA-15 materials
Authors: Jia ZhiQi , Zhao YongXiang
Published: December 2010

A novel ‘plugs’-containing Al-SBA-15 material (denoted as PAS) was directly synthesized through simultaneous introducing toluene and aluminum precursor into the reaction mixture of traditional SBA-15. Such material not only featured a unique two-step desorption isotherm as conventional plugged SBA-15 synthesized using excessive siliceous precursor, and higher pore wall thickness than that of other analogous materials, but also possessed weak and medium acidic sites, which implied the PAS would offer unusual advantages such as multifunctionality to process a large variety of feed-stocks in acid-involved reaction (e.g. polymerization of tetrahydrofuran) in industrial point of view. In addition, catalytic activity of the PAS was investigated by the tetrahydrofuran (THF) polymerization reaction in the presence of acetic anhydride and compared with Al-doped MCM-41 prepared via conventional direct hydrothermal synthesis. The PAS exhibited good performance on polymerization of THF. Such result could be related to the large pore size and moderate acidic sites.
Meta-analysis of randomized intra-arterial thrombolytic trials for the treatment of acute stroke due to middle cerebral artery occlusion
Authors: Fields Jeremy D , Khatri Pooja , Nesbit Gary M , Liu Kenneth C , Barnwell Stanley L , Lutsep Helmi L , Clark Wayne M , Lansberg Maarten G
Published: December 2010

Background

Randomized clinical trials supporting the use of intra-arterial administration of thrombolytics (IAT) for the treatment of stroke due to middle cerebral artery (MCA) occlusion have been positive on some, but not all, endpoints. A meta-analysis was performed to estimate with more precision the effect of IAT on several key clinical endpoints.

Methods

All randomized trials of IAT in the treatment of MCA stroke were identified by PUBMED search and by hand search of potentially relevant references. Trial methodologies were assessed for compatibility in study protocols and statistical analysis. A meta-analysis was performed evaluating the effect of IAT on functional outcome at 90 days and symptomatic intracranial hemorrhage (SICH) within 24 h.

Results

Three trials met the criteria for the meta-analysis. IAT treated patients were significantly more likely to have a modified Rankin scale (mRS) ≤1 (31% vs 20%, OR 2.0, 95% CI 1.2 to 3.4, p=0.01); mRS ≤2 (43% vs 31%, OR 1.9, 95% CI 1.2 to 3.0, p=0.01); and NIH Stroke Scale score 0 or 1 (23% vs 12%, OR 2.4, 95% CI 1.3 to 4.4, p=0.007) at the 90 day follow-up. There was no effect on mortality at 90 days (20% vs 19%, OR 0.84, 95% CI 0.5 to 1.5). The risk of SICH was significantly increased in the active treatment arms (11% vs 2%, OR 4.6, 95% CI 1.3 to 16, p=0.02).

Conclusions

Our meta-analysis demonstrates that all standard functional endpoints for stroke trials were substantially improved in the active treatment arms. Despite an increased risk of SICH, there was no effect on mortality. These results support endovascular treatment of acute ischemic stroke due to MCA occlusion with intra-arterial thrombolytics.
Balloon-augmented Onyx embolization of a dural arteriovenous fistula arising from the neuromeningeal trunk of the ascending pharyngeal artery: technical report
Authors: Spiotta Alejandro M , Hughes Gwyneth , Masaryk Thomas J , Hui Ferdinand K
Published: December 2010

Introduction

Intracranial dural arteriovenous fistulas (dAVFs) with perimedullary drainage are an uncommon but well-recognized lesion that can lead to spinal cord edema. The authors present a case of a foramen magnum dAVF with unilateral arterial supply from the ascending pharyngeal artery.

Presentation

A 49-year-old male presented with a 1-year history of slowly progressive lower extremity weakness and underwent a two-level cervical corpectomy for presumed spondylotic myelopathy. On further workup, he was found to have a dAVF arising from the ascending pharyngeal artery.

Intervention

Selective angiography revealed the origin of the neuromeningeal trunk, which was proximal to the arteriovenous fistula. The microcatheter was advanced into the neuromeningeal trunk past the origin of the inferior tympanic artery and origin of the hypoglossal artery. A 4×7 mm Hyperform balloon (EV3, Irvine, California, USA) was then delivered past the origin of the vessel supplying the skull base cranial nerves, but proximal to the microcatheter tip. The balloon was inflated and Onyx embolization was employed to obliterate the fistula with controlled penetration. The patient showed immediate postprocedural improvement in motor function.

Discussion

Embolization of branches of the ascending pharyngeal artery carries risks of inadvertent embolization of branches of the neuromeningeal trunk as well as the risk for extracranial to intracranial anastamoses. An awareness of the highly variable anatomy of the ascending pharyngeal artery is necessary for the safe treatment of lesions supplied by this artery. This is, to the authors' knowledge, the first report of balloon-augmented embolization of an arteriovenous fistula arising from the neuromeningeal trunk.
Active smoking and secondhand smoke increase breast cancer risk: the report of the Canadian Expert Panel on Tobacco Smoke and Breast Cancer Risk (2009)
Authors: Johnson Kenneth C , Miller Anthony B , Collishaw Neil E , Palmer Julie R , Hammond S Katharine , Salmon Andrew G , Cantor Kenneth P , Miller Mark D , Boyd Norman F , Millar John , Turcotte Fernand
Published: December 2010

Four authoritative reviews of active smoking and breast cancer have been published since 2000, but only one considered data after 2002 and conclusions varied. Three reviews of secondhand smoke (SHS) and breast cancer (2004–2006) each came to different conclusions. With 30 new studies since 2002, further review was deemed desirable. An Expert Panel was convened by four Canadian agencies, the Ontario Tobacco Research Unit, the Public Health Agency of Canada, Physicians for a Smoke-Free Canada and the Canadian Partnership Against Cancer to comprehensively examine the weight of evidence from epidemiological and toxicological studies and understanding of biological mechanisms regarding the relationship between tobacco smoke and breast cancer. This article summarises the panel's full report (http://www.otru.org/pdf/special/expert_panel_tobacco_breast_cancer.pdf). There are 20 known or suspected mammary carcinogens in tobacco smoke, and recognised biological mechanisms that explain how exposure to these carcinogens could lead to breast cancer. Results from the nine cohort studies reporting exposure metrics more detailed than ever/never and ex/current smoker show that early age of smoking commencement, higher pack-years and longer duration of smoking increase breast cancer risk 15% to 40%. Three meta-analyses report 35% to 50% increases in breast cancer risk for long-term smokers withN-acetyltransferase 2 gene (NAT2) slow acetylation genotypes. The active smoking evidence bolsters support for three meta-analyses that each reported about a 65% increase in premenopausal breast cancer risk among never smokers exposed to SHS. The Panel concluded that: 1) the association between active smoking and breast cancer is consistent with causality and 2) the association between SHS and breast cancer among younger, primarily premenopausal women who have never smoked is consistent with causality.
MAGNETIC SWITCHING EFFECT IN SPIN FIELD-EFFECT TRANSISTORS
Authors: YANG JUN , JIANG KAI-MING , WU WEN YUAN , GONG YAN CHUN
Published: December 2010

Taking account the presence of external magnetic field, we study the conductance properties in spin field-effect transistors (SFET). It is shown that the conductance of the SFET exhibits an excellent magnetic switching characteristic for high potential barriers, and it is more and more pronounced with the potential barrier strength increasing. According to the effect, we can switch the SFET on or off by tuning the strength of the magnetic field. We also study how the conductance of the SFET is manipulated by spin–orbit coupling strength and spin polarization in source and drain.
A CLASS OF SPECIAL EXACT SOLUTIONS OF SOME HIGH DIMENSIONAL NON-LINEAR WAVE EQUATIONS
Authors: WANG DENG-SHAN
Published: December 2010

In this paper, the separation transformation approach is extended to some high dimensional non-linear wave equations, such as the (N+1)-dimensional Zhiber–Shabat equation, the generalized (N+1)-dimensional complex non-linear Klein–Gordon equation and the generalized (N+1)-dimensional Toda lattice equation. As a result, a class of special exact solutions of these equations are obtained. The solutions obtained contain one or two arbitrary functions which may lead to abundant structures of the high dimensional non-linear wave equations.
RESONANT DONOR STATES IN QUANTUM WELL
Authors: ABRAMOV ARNOLD
Published: December 2010

A method of calculation of donor impurity states in a quantum well is developed. The used techniques have made it possible to find the binding energy both of ground and excited impurity states attached to each QW subband. The positions of the resonant states in 2D continuum are determined as poles of corresponding wave functions. As a result of such an approach the identification of resonant states in 2D continuum is avoided, introducing special criterions. The calculated dependences of binding energies versus impurity position are presented for various widths of Si / Si 1-x Ge x quantum wells.
INTERFACE SCATTERING EFFECT ON JOSEPHSON CURRENT IN A d-WAVE SUPERCONDUCTOR/d-WAVE SUPERCONDUCTOR JUNCTION
Authors: LIAO YAN-HUA , LI JIAN , WANG FENG
Published: December 2010

By taking into account the interface scattering effect in a d-wave superconductor (S)/insulator layer (I)/d-wave superconductor (S) junction, the temperature dependence of the critical current and the current-phase relation are studied theoretically. It is found that both the barrier scattering and the roughness scattering at the interface always suppress the Andreev reflection and the current-phase relation is almost sinusoidal in the junction. The Josephson current strongly depends on the crystalline axis orientation of the d-wave superconductor in the junction. Some different phenomena appear depending on whether the crystal orientations of the superconductors on the two sides are the same or not, and this is mainly presented in the influence of the zero-energy states formation at the interface on the critical current which changes with temperature and phase.
ON THE STRUCTURE OF PERIODIC ORBITS ON A SIMPLE BRANCHED MANIFOLD
Authors: ITIK MEHMET , BANKS STEPHEN P.
Published: December 2010

We study the structure of the periodic orbits on a simple branched manifold which is a subtemplate of the branched manifold of the chaotic attractor that is obtained from a cancer model. We indicate the conditions for the knotted and linked periodic orbits by using symbolic dynamics, then we extend the results to the periodic solutions of the chaotic attractor. Furthermore, we compare the knots obtained by using same symbol sequences for the simple branched manifold and the attractor's branched manifold by using a knot invariant, specifically, we calculate the Kauffman bracket polynomial. In order to count the number of closed curves which is required to calculate the bracket polynomial we propose a new method which uses cyclic permutations.
SPATIO-TEMPORAL CHAOS IN A DISCRETE TURING MODEL
Authors: KANG HUNSEOK
Published: December 2010

In this paper, we present a study of a discrete version of a reaction–diffusion system which corresponds to the Turing model of morphogenesis. We present a review on spatio-temporal chaos in lattice systems, and then show that the discrete version possesses a hyperbolic property displaying spatio-temporal chaos. Finally, some numerical computation will be performed to observe the hyperbolic properties of the system.
BIFURCATIONS AND HYPERCHAOS FROM A DC DRIVEN NONIDENTICAL JOSEPHSON JUNCTION SYSTEM
Authors: KURT EROL , CANTURK MEHMET
Published: December 2010

The dynamics of a resistively coupled system of nonidentical Josephson junctions (JJ) with dc feedings is explored theoretically. The effects of system parameters on the dynamic features are defined and equilibrium features of the system of equations are explored in such a nonidentical JJ system for the first time. By using center manifold reduction, the inverse of coupling resistance R cp is considered as the main bifurcation parameter. The bifurcation at the vicinity of the equilibrium point is found to be transcritical, stable and unstable regimes are also indicated analytically. It is observed that the amplitudes of the output voltages on the coupling resistance R cp are changeable and mostly uncorrelated for two parts of superconducting junction system. Such a system exhibits very rich dynamics from periodic to chaotic behavior for certain parameter sets. While the regular characteristics are observed for moderate and lower feeding currents, chaotic and highly-complex patterns are obtained for relatively higher values of them. Besides, a wider hyperchaotic region is found for wide ranges of parameters after the determination of phase diagrams compared to the earlier studies. The nonidentical nature of JJs governs the complicated dynamics on the phase space. The present circuitry can be utilized for various purposes such as stable, chaotic or hyperchaotic behavior depending on the parameters Ii and R cp .
LIMIT CYCLE BIFURCATIONS OF SOME LIÉNARD SYSTEMS WITH A NILPOTENT CUSP
Authors: YANG JUNMIN , HAN MAOAN
Published: December 2010

In this paper, we study the number of limit cycles of a kind of polynomial Liénard system with a nilpotent cusp and obtain some new results on the lower bound of the maximal number of limit cycles for this kind of systems.
COMPLEX DYNAMICS OF BILINEAR OSCILLATOR CLOSE TO GRAZING
Authors: PAVLOVSKAIA EKATERINA , ING JAMES , WIERCIGROCH MARIAN , BANERJEE SOUMITRO
Published: December 2010

In this work the strange behavior of an impact oscillator with a one-sided elastic constraint discovered experimentally is compared with the predictions obtained using its mathematical model. Extensive experimental investigations undertaken on the rig developed at the Aberdeen University reveal different bifurcation scenarios under varying excitation frequency near grazing which were recorded for a number of values of the excitation amplitude. In the paper, particular attention is paid to the chaotic oscillations recorded near grazing frequency when a nonimpacting orbit becomes an impacting one under increasing excitation frequency. It was found that the evolution of the attractor is governed by a complex interplay between smooth and nonsmooth bifurcations, and the interactions between a number of coexisting orbits. The occurrence of coexisting attractors is manifested in the experimental results through discontinuous transitions from one orbit to another via boundary crisis. In some cases, the basins of attraction have a fractal structure. Detailed numerical exploration also revealed coexisting unstable periodic orbits. These stable and unstable coexisting orbits are often born far from the parameter values at which they influence the system dynamics. The very rich dynamics of the bilinear oscillator close to grazing is demonstrated and typical mechanisms of the attractors' appearance and disappearance are explained using stability analysis.
Glomerular filtration rate determinations in conscious type II diabetic mice
Authors: Bivona Benjamin J. , Park Sungmi , Harrison-Bernard Lisa M.
Published: December 2010

Diabetic nephropathy is a major cause of end-stage renal disease worldwide. The current studies were performed to determine the later stages of the progression of renal disease in type II diabetic mice (BKS; db/db). Methodology was developed for determining glomerular filtration rate (GFR) in conscious, chronically instrumented mice using continuous intravenous infusion of FITC-labeled inulin to achieve a steady-state plasma inulin concentration. Obese diabetic mice exhibited increased GFR compared with control mice. GFR averaged 0.313 ± 0.018 and 0.278 ± 0.007 ml/min in 18-wk-old obese diabetic ( n = 11) and control ( n = 13) mice, respectively ( P < 0.05). In 28-wk-old obese diabetic ( n = 10) and control ( n = 15) mice, GFR averaged 0.348 ± 0.030 and 0.279 ± 0.009 ml/min, respectively ( P < 0.05). GFR expressed per gram BW was significantly reduced in 18- and 28-wk-old obese diabetic compared with control mice (5.9 ± 0.3 vs. 9.0 ± 0.3; 6.6 ± 0.6 vs. 7.8 ± 0.3 μl·min−1·g body wt−1), respectively ( P < 0.05). However, older nonobese type II diabetic mice had significantly reduced GFR (0.179 ± 0.023 ml/min; n = 6) and elevated urinary albumin excretion (811 ± 127 μg/day) compared with obese diabetic and control mice (514 ± 54, 171 ± 18 μg/day), which are consistent with the advanced stages of renal disease. These studies suggest that hyperfiltration contributes to the progression of renal disease in type II diabetic mice.
Identification of a New Peptide for Fibrosarcoma Tumor Targeting and Imaging In Vivo
Authors: Wu Chia-Che , Lin Erh-Hsuan , Lee Yu-Ching , Tai Cheng-Jeng , Kuo Tsu-Hsiang , Wang Hsin-Ell , Luo Tsai-Yueh , Fu Ying-Kai , Chen Haw-Jan , Sun Ming-Ding , Wu Chih-Hsiung , WU Cheng-Wen , Leu Sy-Jye , Deng Win-Ping
Published: December 2010

A 12-mer amino acid peptide SATTHYRLQAAN, denominated TK4, was isolated from a phage-display library with fibrosarcoma tumor-binding activity. In vivo biodistribution analysis of TK4-displaying phage showed a significant increased phage titer in implanted tumor up to 10-fold in comparison with normal tissues after systemic administration in mouse. Competition assay confirmed that the binding of TK4-phage to tumor cells depends on the TK4 peptide. Intravenous injection of131I-labeled synthetic TK4 peptide in mice showed a tumor retention of 3.3% and 2.7% ID/g at 1- and 4-hour postinjection, respectively. Tumor-to-muscle ratio was 1.1, 5.7, and 3.2 at 1-, 4-, and 24-hour, respectively, and tumors were imaged on a digital γ-camera at 4-hour postinjection. The present data suggest that TK4 holds promise as a lead structure for tumor targeting, and it could be further applied in the development of diagnostic or therapeutic agent.
Convolution Operators and Bochner‐Riesz Means on Herz‐Type Hardy Spaces in the Dunkl Setting
Authors: Gasmi A. , Soltani F.
Published: December 2010

We study the Dunkl convolution operators on Herz‐type Hardy spaces and we establish a version of multiplier theorem for the maximal Bochner‐Riesz operators on
the Herz‐type Hardy spaces .
Thermal Conductivity of a Monolayer of Exfoliated Graphite Nanoplatelets Prepared by Liquid‐Liquid Interfacial Self‐Assembly
Authors: Xiang Jinglei , Drzal Lawrence T.
Published: December 2010

A monolayer film composed of exfoliated graphite nanoplatelets (xGnPs) was extracted from a chloroform‐water interface and supported on a glass substrate. The nanoplatelets are interconnected at the edges without overlapping forming a very densely packed structure with uniform thickness. Micro‐Raman spectroscopy with a 50 mW 532 nm laser generating heat at the center of a xGnP sample was used to probe the thermal conductivity of the xGnP monolayer at different power levels. The Raman G peak shift of graphite was used to record the local temperature rise in the monolayer. The cross‐sectional area of heat conduction is determined by the thickness of individual nanoplatelets. A UV‐Vis spectrometer was used to measure the absorption of light by the monolayer. Depending on the interface density, the thermal conductivities are around 380 W/m K and 290 W/m K for monolayers with average particle size of 10 μm and 5 μm, respectively.
Current Concepts on Antiplatelet Therapy: Focus on the Novel Thienopyridine and Non-Thienopyridine Agents
Authors: Testa L. , Biondi Zoccai G. G. L. , Valgimigli M. , Latini R. A. , Pizzocri S. , Lanotte S. , Laudisa M. L. , Brambilla N. , Ward M. R. , Figtree G. A. , Bedogni F. , Bhindi R.
Published: December 2010

Thienopyridines are a class of drug targeting the platelet adenosine diphosphate (ADP) 2 receptor. They significantly reduce platelet activity and are therefore clinically beneficial in settings where platelet activation is a key pathophysiological feature, particularly myocardial infarction. Ticlopidine, the first of the class introduced to clinical practice, was soon challenged and almost completely replaced by clopidogrel for its better tolerability. More recently, prasugrel and ticagrelor have been shown to provide a more powerful antiplatelet action compared to clopidogrel but at a cost of higher risk of bleeding complications. Cangrelor, a molecule very similar to ticagrelor, is currently being evaluated against clopidogrel. Considering the key balance of ischemic protection and bleeding risk, this paper discusses the background to the development of prasugrel, ticagrelor, and cangrelor and aims to characterise their risk-benefit profile and possible implementation in daily practice.
Simulation of the Radiation Reaction Orbits of a Classical Relativistic Charged Particle withGeneralized Off‐Shell Lorentz Force
Authors: Roitgrund Aviad , Horwitz Lawrence
Published: December 2010

We review the formulation of the problem of electromagnetic self‐interaction of a relativistic charged particle in the framework of the manifestly covariant classical mechanics of Stueckeleberg, Horwitz, and Piron. The gauge fields of this theory, in general, cause the mass of the particle to change. We study the four dynamical off‐mass‐shell orbit equations which result from the expansion of Green′s function in the Lorentz force equation for the self‐interaction. It appears that there is an attractor in this system which stabilizes the motion of the
relativistic charged electron. The attractor may acquire fractal characteristics in the presence of an external field and thus become a strange
attractor.
Numerical Investigation of Velocity Flow Field inside an Impeller Air Model of a Centrifugal Pump with Vaned Diffuser Interactions and Comparison with PIV Measurements
Authors: Atif Abdelmadjid , Benmansour Saad , Bois Gerard
Published: December 2010

The paper refers to the analysis of interactions between the impeller and the vaned diffuser on the air model of a radial flow pump. The study deals with a numerical simulation of the flow for a full 360°entire impeller and diffuser. The task is carried out close to design operating conditions and for one particular position of the impeller blade with respect to diffuser frame. Among all the results, it has been decided to mainly focus on the flow pattern at the exit part inside the impeller coming from the diffuser vanes interactions. The results are compared to the available PIV measurements.
Methadone-Induced Delayed Posthypoxic Encephalopathy: Clinical, Radiological, and Pathological Findings
Authors: Mittal Manoj , Wang Yunxia , Reeves Alan , Newell Kathy
Published: December 2010

Objective. To describe the clinical, radiological and pathological findings in a patient with methadone-induced delayed posthypoxic encephalopathy (DPHE).Case Report. A Thirty-eight-year-old man was found unconscious for an unknown duration after methadone and diazepam ingestion. His initial vitals were temperature 104 degree Fahrenheit, heart rate 148/minute, respiratory rate 50/minute, and blood pressure 107/72 mmhg. He developed renal failure, rhabdomyolysis, and elevated liver enzymes which resolved completely in 6 days. After 2 weeks from discharge he had progressive deterioration of his cognitive, behavioral and neurological function. Brain MRI showed diffuse abnormal T2 signal in the corona radiata, centrum semiovale, and subcortical white matter throughout all lobes. Extensive work up was negative for any metabolic, infectious or autoimmune disorder. Brain biopsy showed significant axonal injury in the white matter. He was treated successfully with combination of steroids and antioxidants. Follow up at 2 year showed no residual deficits.Conclusion. Our observation suggests that patients on methadone therapy should be monitored for any neurological or psychiatric symptoms, and in suspected cases MRI brain may help to make the diagnosis of DPHE. A trial of steroids and antioxidants may be considered in these patients.
A Decision Support System for Land Allocation under Multiple Objectives in Public Production Forests in the Brazilian Amazon
Authors: Lentini Marco W. , Carter Douglas R. , Macpherson Alexander J.
Published: December 2010

Logging in natural forests is a vital economic activity in the Brazilian Amazon. However, illegal and unplanned logging is exhausting forests rapidly. In 2006, a new forestry law in Brazil (Lei 11,284/2006) established the legal framework to develop state and national public forests for multiple uses. To support public forest planning efforts, we combine spatially explicit data on logging profits, biodiversity, and potential for community use for use within a forest planning optimization model. While generating optimal land use configurations, the model enables an assessment of the market and nonmarket tradeoffs associated with different land use priorities. We demonstrate the model's use for Faro State Forest, a 636,000 ha forest embedded within a large mosaic of conservation units recently established in the state of Pará. The datasets used span the entire Brazilian Amazon, implying that the analysis can be repeated for any public forest planning effort within the region.
Cardiac Imaging Using Clinical 1.5 T MRI Scanners in a Murine Ischemia/Reperfusion Model
Authors: Voelkl Jakob G. J. , Haubner Bernhard J. , Kremser Christian , Mayr Agnes , Klug Gert , Loizides Alexander , Müller Silvana , Pachinger Otmar , Schocke Michael , Metzler Bernhard
Published: December 2010

To perform cardiac imaging in mice without having to invest in expensive dedicated equipment, we adapted a clinical 1.5 Tesla (T) magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scanner for use in a murine ischemia/reperfusion model. Phase‐sensitive inversion recovery (PSIR) sequence facilitated the determination of infarct sizes in vivo by late gadolinium enhancement. Results were compared to histological infarct areas in mice after ischemia/reperfusion procedure with a good correlation (r = 0.807, P < .001). In addition, fractional area change (FAC) was assessed with single slice cine MRI and was matched to infarct size (r = −0.837) and fractional shortening (FS) measured with echocardiography (r = 0.860); both P < .001. Here, we demonstrate the use of clinical 1.5 MRI scanners as a feasible method for basic phenotyping in mice. These widely available scanners are capable of investigating in vivo infarct dimensions as well as assessment of cardiac functional parameters in mice with reasonable throughput.
Synthesis of Fe3O4/Pt Nanoparticles Decorated Carbon Nanotubes and Their Use as Magnetically Recyclable Catalysts
Authors: He Hongkun , Gao Chao
Published: December 2010

We report a facile approach to prepare Fe3O4/Pt nanoparticles decorated carbon nanotubes (CNTs). The superparamagnetic Fe3O4nanoparticles with average size of4∼5 nm were loaded on the surfaces of carboxyl groups functionalized CNTs via a high-temperature solution-phase hydrolysis method from the raw material of FeCl3. The synthesis process of magnetic CNTs is green and readily scalable. The loading amounts of Fe3O4nanopartilces and the magnetizations of the resulting magnetic CNTs show good tunability. The Pt nanopaticles with average size of 2.5 nm were deposited on the magnetic CNTs through a solution-based method. It is demonstrated that the Fe3O4/Pt nanoparticles decorated CNTs have high catalytic activity in the reduction reaction of 4-nitrophenol and can be readily recycled by a magnet and reused in the next reactions with high efficiencies for at least fifteen successive cycles. The novel CNTs-supported magnetically recyclable catalysts are promising in heterogeneous catalysis applications.
Histone Deacetylase Inhibitors: The Epigenetic Therapeutics That Repress Hypoxia‐Inducible Factors
Authors: Chen Shuyang , Sang Nianli
Published: December 2010

Histone deacetylase inhibitors (HDACIs) have been actively explored as a new generation of chemotherapeutics for cancers, generally known as epigenetic therapeutics. Recent findings indicate that several types of HDACIs repress angiogenesis, a process essential for tumor metabolism and progression. Accumulating evidence supports that this repression is mediated by disrupting the function of hypoxia‐inducible factors (HIF‐1, HIF‐2, and collectively, HIF), which are the master regulators of angiogenesis and cellular adaptation to hypoxia. Since HIF also regulate glucose metabolism, cell survival, microenvironment remodeling, and other alterations commonly required for tumor progression, they are considered as novel targets for cancer chemotherapy. Though the precise biochemical mechanism underlying the HDACI‐triggered repression of HIF function remains unclear, potential cellular factors that may link the inhibition of deacetylase activity to the repression of HIF function have been proposed. Here we review published data that inhibitors of type I/II HDACs repress HIF function by either reducing functional HIF‐1αlevels, or repressing HIF‐αtransactivation activity. In addition, underlying mechanisms and potential proteins involved in the repression will be discussed. A thorough understanding of HDACI‐induced repression of HIF function may facilitate the development of future therapies to either repress or promote angiogenesis for cancer or chronic ischemic disorders, respectively.
Loss of Function of E-Cadherin in Embryonic Stem Cells and the Relevance to Models of Tumorigenesis
Authors: Mohamet Lisa , Hawkins Kate , Ward Christopher M.
Published: December 2010

E-cadherin is the primary cell adhesion molecule within the epithelium, and loss of this protein is associated with a more aggressive tumour phenotype and poorer patient prognosis in many cancers. Loss of E-cadherin is a defining characteristic of epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT), a process associated with tumour cell metastasis. We have previously demonstrated an EMT event during embryonic stem (ES) cell differentiation, and that loss of E-cadherin in these cells results in altered growth factor response and changes in cell surface localisation of promigratory molecules. We discuss the implication of loss of E-cadherin in ES cells within the context of cancer stem cells and current models of tumorigenesis. We propose that aberrant E-cadherin expression is a critical contributing factor to neoplasia and the early stages of tumorigenesis in the absence of EMT by altering growth factor response of the cells, resulting in increased proliferation, decreased apoptosis, and acquisition of a stem cell-like phenotype.
Physical and Functional HAT/HDAC Interplay Regulates Protein Acetylation Balance
Authors: Peserico Alessia , Simone Cristiano
Published: December 2010

The balance between protein acetylation and deacetylation controls several physiological and pathological cellular processes, and the enzymes involved in the maintenance of this equilibrium—acetyltransferases (HATs) and deacetylases (HDACs)—have been widely studied. Presently, the evidences obtained in this field suggest that the dynamic acetylation equilibrium is mostly maintained through the physical and functional interplay between HAT and HDAC activities. This model overcomes the classical vision in which the epigenetic marks of acetylation have only an activating function whereas deacetylation marks have a repressing activity. Given the existence of several players involved in the preservation of this equilibrium, the identification of these complex networks of interacting proteins will likely foster our understanding of how cells regulate intracellular processes and respond to the extracellular environment and will offer the rationale for new therapeutic approaches based on epigenetic drugs in human diseases.