bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A note on the dissolution of spherical crystals
Authors: Herraiz Luis A. , Herrero Miguel A. , Velázquez Juan J. L.
Published: July 2007

We consider here the radial Stefan problem with Gibbs–Thomson law, which is a classical model describing growth or melting of a spherical crystal in a surrounding liquid. We shall specialize to the cases of two and three space dimensions and discuss the asymptotic behaviour of a melting crystal near its dissolution time t* > 0. We prove here that, when the interface shrinks monotonically, the asymptotics near t = t* is of the form

Here, R(t) denotes the radius of the crystal, σ is a surface tension parameter and u(r, t) represents the field temperature. An important point to be noticed is that (*) exhibits no dependence on the space dimension N, in sharp contrast with results known for the case σ = 0.
Infiltrations in immiscible fluids systems
Authors: Leonardi Gian Paolo
Published: July 2007

In this paper we prove a certain regularity property of configurations of immiscible fluids, filling a bounded container Ω and locally minimizing the interface energy ∑i<jcij‖Sij‖, where Sij represents the interface between fluid i and fluid j, ‖·‖ stands for area or more general area-type functional, and cij is a positive coefficient. More precisely, we show that, under strict triangularity of the cij, no infiltrations of other fluids are allowed between two main ones. A remarkable consequence of this fact is the almost-everywhere regularity of the interfaces. Our analysis is performed in general dimension n ≥ 2 and with volume constraints on fluids.
Ocean color observations and modeling for an optically complex site: Santa Barbara Channel, California, USA
Authors: Kostadinov T. S. , Siegel D. A. , Maritorena S. , Guillocheau N.
Published: July 2007

An extensive bio‐optical data set from the Santa Barbara Channel (SBC), California, is used to assess the in‐water constituents responsible for ocean color variability in this optically complex coastal site and to develop locally optimized ocean color models. The Santa Barbara Channel is a productive region of the California Current System. Chlorophyll concentrations are highly variable (range from 0.06 to 19.8 mg m−3) and are higher than the typical open ocean conditions (mean of 2.2 mg m−3 and standard deviation of 2.4 mg m−3). Thus chlorophyll pigments are a prime driver of reflectance variability in the SBC. Reflectance is also influenced by colored dissolved organic matter and suspended sediments which only weakly covary with chlorophyll. Detrital particulates are responsible for only a small (ca. 10%) portion of nonwater absorption, whereas phytoplankton and colored dissolved organic matter contribute approximately equally to the total nonwater absorption coefficient at 440 nm. Remote‐sensing reflectance spectra show the expected relationships with in situ determinations of absorption and backscattering where reflectance variability is absorption‐driven in the blue and backscattering‐driven in the green. The performance of existing empirical and semianalytical ocean color algorithms is shown to be satisfactory, although clearly not excellent. The optical complexity of the SBC suggests that regionally specific semianalytical models should be developed to best account for the independently varying optical constituents. Importantly, an optimization of a semianalytical model using the present data set does not result in substantial improvements in performance. Analyses of the causes and the implications of this conundrum are discussed.
Ion gyroresonance observations at Jicamarca revisited
Authors: Rodrigues F. S. , Nicolls M. J. , Woodman R. , Hysell D. L. , Chau J. L. , González S. A.
Published: July 2007

This paper presents recent observations of the proton gyroresonance over Jicamarca. In October 2006, a single‐polarization double‐pulse experiment was set up to measure the first gyroresonance peak in the incoherent scatter (IS) auto‐correlation function (ACF). Despite the clutter caused by Spread‐F and artificial satellites, it was possible to measure the first proton gyroresonance peak of the ACF in the topside ionosphere. For the first time, least‐squares fits of theoretical IS ACFs to gyroresonance measurements are reported. Theoretical ACFs that best fit the measurements were found using the H+ fraction and temperature (assuming Te = Ti) as fitting parameters. Uncertainties for the estimated fraction of H+ were as low as 12%, while uncertainties for estimated temperatures were around 30%. These are the first successful gyroresonance measurements since the early observations of Farley (1967), and it is the first time measurements of this type have been used to obtain least squares estimates of ion composition and temperatures.
Epilogue: Implications of Research on English Language Learners for Classroom and Clinical Practice
Authors: Nixon Stephanie M. , McCardle Peggy , Leos Kathleen
Published: July 2007

Purpose

The purpose of the present article is to provide the closing context for this clinical forum that showcases prereading and reading development research with Spanish-speaking English language learning children.

Method

Background information, including legislation, judicial review, and past research, are used to interpret the results of the studies in the clinical forum.

Implications

Suggestions for practitioners and future research are presented based on the clinical forum and background information.
Intermittency of the velocity fluctuations in a granular surface flow
Authors: Kellay H. , Amarouchene Y. , Boudet J. F.
Published: July 2007

Velocity fluctuations in a granular surface flow are studied. These fluctuations are self-similar at small scales with an energy density spectrum showing a −5∕3 power law. The probability density functions of velocity increments are strongly non-Gaussian. The moments of velocity differences between two points separated by a distance r vary as a power law with the scale r; the exponents saturate at a value of 2∕3 showing very strong intermittency of the velocity fluctuations.
Correlation between icosahedral short range order, glass forming ability, and thermal stability of Zr–Ti–Ni–Cu–(Be) glasses
Authors: Mechler S. , Schumacher G. , Zizak I. , Macht M.-P. , Wanderka N.
Published: July 2007

The structure and the crystallization behavior of the bulk metallic glass Zr46.8Ti8.2Ni10Cu7.5Be27.5 and of its Be-free derivative Zr64.5Ti11.4Ni13.8Cu10.3 are analyzed by means of differential scanning calorimetry, transmission electron microscopy, and x-ray diffraction. These alloys reveal different glass forming abilities. Thermal stability and crystallization behavior of the glasses are also different. These differences are correlated with the different degrees of icosahedral short range order in the glasses. Results fit to the model of geometric frustration, which describes the structure of metallic glasses as “highly defective quasicrystals.” In the present case Be degrades the ideal quasicrystalline structure.
Oxygen pressure dependence of HfO2 stoichiometry: An ab initio investigation
Authors: Tang C. , Ramprasad R.
Published: July 2007

The oxygen pressure dependence of the formation of excess O vacancies and interstitials in monoclinic HfO2 was investigated by performing first principles and thermodynamic calculations. Upper and lower critical oxygen pressures are identified that heavily favor the formation of oxygen interstitials and vacancies, respectively. The ratio of these critical pressures can be specified unambiguously as the sum of the formation energies of O vacancies and interstitials at 0K obtained from ab initio calculations.
Phonon-induced shot noise enhancement in resonant tunneling structures
Authors: Nam Do V. , Dollfus P. , Nguyen V. Lien
Published: July 2007

Using the nonequilibrium Green’s function formalism, the authors investigate the effect of the electron-phonon interaction on the current and shot noise in one dimensional resonant tunneling structures. Besides the well-known current behavior, they particularly show that the shot noise may be enhanced over the Poissonian value due to the phonon-assisted tunneling effect. The observed super-Poissonian noise is then interpreted as a result of the competition between the coherent and sequential current components.
Resistance Enhancement of Transgenic Tomato to Bacterial Pathogens by the Heterologous Expression of Sweet Pepper Ferredoxin-I Protein
Authors: Huang Hsiang-En , Liu Chien-An , Lee Mei-Jiuan , Kuo C.-George , Chen Huei-Mei , Ger Mang-Jye , Tsai Yu-Chih , Chen Yen-Ru , Lin Ming-Kun , Feng Teng-Yung
Published: July 2007

Expression of a foreign gene to enhance plant disease resistance to bacterial pathogens is a favorable strategy. It has been demonstrated that expressing sweet pepper ferredoxin-I protein (PFLP) in transgenic plants can enhance disease resistance to bacterial pathogens that infect leaf tissue. In this study, PFLP was applied to protect tomato (Lycopersicon esculentum cv. cherry Cln1558a) from the root-infecting pathogen, Ralstonia solanacearum. Independent R. solanacearum resistant T1 lines were selected and bred to produce homozygous T2 generations. Selected T2 transgenic lines 24-18-7 and 26-2-1a, which showed high expression levels of PFLP in root tissue, were resistant to disease caused by R. solanacearum. In contrast, the transgenic line 23-17-1b and nontransgenic tomato, which showed low expression levels of PFLP in root tissue, were not resistant to R. solanacearum infection. The expansion of R. solanacearum populations in stem tissue of transgenic tomato line 24-18-7 was limited compared with the nontransgenic tomato Cln1558a. Using a detached leaf assay, transgenic line 24-18-7 was also resistant to maceration caused by E. carotovora subsp. carotovora; however, resistance to E. carotovora subsp. carotovora was less apparent in transgenic lines 26-2-1a and 23-17-1b. These results demonstrate that PFLP is able to enhance disease resistance at different levels to bacterial pathogens in individual tissue of transgenic tomato.
Impact of Diurnal Periodicity, Temperature, and Light on Sporulation of Bremia lactucae
Authors: Nordskog Berit , Gadoury David M. , Seem Robert C. , Hermansen Arne
Published: July 2007

We evaluated direct and interactive effects of light quality and intensity, temperature and light, diurnal rhythms, and timing of high relative humidity during long day lengths on sporulation of Bremia lactucae, the causal agent of lettuce downy mildew, using inoculated lettuce seedlings and detached cotyledons. Suppression of sporulation by light was strongly dependent upon temperature and there was little suppression at ≤10°C. The most suppressive waveband was in the range from 400 to 450 nm, although a lesser effect of wavebands from 450 to 500 and 500 to 550 nm could be detected. At 15°C, near the lower threshold for suppression of sporulation by light, a clear diurnal pattern of sporulation was observed independent of light and darkness. This diurnal rhythm potentially could interact with light and temperature to confound the results of controlled environment studies, and may be the controlling factor in timing of sporulation at low temperatures. Forecasting models that currently use sunrise and sunset to delimit periods conducive to sporulation can be adapted to short nights and extended twilight conditions by incorporating the effects reported herein. Additionally, models of sporulation could be adapted to better reflect a decrease or absence of the suppressive effect of light at <15°C.
Tsukamurella spongiae sp. nov., a novel actinomycete isolated from a deep-water marine sponge
Authors: Olson Julie B. , Harmody Dedra K. , Bej Asim K. , McCarthy Peter J.
Published: July 2007

A Gram-positive, rod-shaped, non-spore-forming bacterium (strain K362T) was isolated from a deep-water marine sponge collected off the coast of Curaçao in the Netherlands Antilles. On the basis of 16S rRNA gene sequence similarities, strain K362T was shown to belong to the genus Tsukamurella, being most closely related to Tsukamurella pulmonis (99.2 %), Tsukamurella tyrosinosolvens (98.9 %), Tsukamurella strandjordii (98.8 %), Tsukamurella pseudospumae (98.8 %) and Tsukamurella spumae (98.8 %). A combination of the substrate utilization patterns, the fatty acid and mycolic acid profiles and the DNA–DNA hybridization results supported the affiliation of strain K362T to the genus Tsukamurella and enabled the genotypic and phenotypic differentiation of strain K362T from the seven recognized Tsukamurella species. Strain K362T therefore represents a novel species of the genus Tsukamurella, for which the name Tsukamurella spongiae sp. nov. is proposed. The type strain is K362T (=DSM 44990T=NRRL B-24467T).
Acidianus sulfidivorans sp. nov., an extremely acidophilic, thermophilic archaeon isolated from a solfatara on Lihir Island, Papua New Guinea, and emendation of the genus description
Authors: Plumb Jason J. , Haddad Christina M. , Gibson John A. E. , Franzmann Peter D.
Published: July 2007

A novel, extremely thermoacidophilic, obligately chemolithotrophic archaeon (strain JP7T) was isolated from a solfatara on Lihir Island, Papua New Guinea. Cells of this organism were non-motile, Gram-negative staining, irregular-shaped cocci, 0.5–1.5 μm in size, that grew aerobically by oxidation of sulfur, Fe2+ or mineral sulfides. Cells grew anaerobically using Fe3+ as a terminal electron acceptor and H2S as an electron donor but did not oxidize hydrogen with elemental sulfur as electron acceptor. Strain JP7T grew optimally at 74 °C (temperature range 45–83 °C) and pH 0.8–1.4 (pH range 0.35–3.0). On the basis of 16S rRNA gene sequence similarity, strain JP7T was shown to belong to the Sulfolobaceae, being most closely related to the type strains of Acidianus ambivalens (93.7 %) and Acidianus infernus (93.6 %). Cell-membrane lipid structure, DNA base composition and 16S rRNA gene sequence similarity data support the placement of this strain in the genus Acidianus. Differences in aerobic and anaerobic metabolism, temperature and pH range for growth, and 16S rRNA gene sequence differentiate strain JP7T from recognized species of the genus Acidianus, and an emendation of the description of the genus is proposed. Strain JP7T is considered to represent a novel species of the genus Acidianus, for which the name Acidianus sulfidivorans sp. nov. is proposed. The type strain is JP7T (=DSM 18786T=JCM 13667T).
Proposal to modify Rule 8 of the Bacteriological Code (1990 Revision)
Authors: Euzéby J. P.
Published: July 2007

The wording of Rule 8 of the Bacteriological Code (1990 Revision) contradicts Principle 4 and it is proposed that the International Committee on Systematics of Prokaryotes (ICSP) modifies this rule.
Quality of life of adults with intellectual disabilities who live with families in Taiwan
Authors: Chou Y. C. , Schalock R. L. , Tzou P. Y. , Lin L. C. , Chang A. L. , Lee W. P. , Chang S. C.
Published: July 2007

Background  Little research has been conducted about the quality of life (QOL) of people with intellectual disabilities (ID) in Taiwan, particularly their subjective QOL. This study examined the personal perceptions of these individuals as measured on internationally recognized core QOL domains and indicators.

Methods  A census interview survey was conducted in Hsin‐Chu City in Taiwan; 233 adults aged over 16 years with mild ID and living with their families participated in the study. Data were collected using the Cross‐Cultural QOL Indicators (CCQOLI) together with socio‐demographic data that included ‘activities of daily living’ and ‘instrumental activities of daily living’ (IADL). The CCQOLI were based on the three most commonly reported indicators of each of the eight QOL domains: emotional well‐being, interpersonal relations, material well‐being, personal development, physical well‐being, self‐determination, social inclusion and rights. Each indicator has two sets of questions related to the indicator's ‘importance’ and ‘use’. These are answered by the respondent using a 4‐point Likert scale.

Results  The importance and use of the QOL indicators were evaluated positively by the respondents. The adults' individual characteristics, namely IADL and educational level, were significant predictors for the ‘importance’ while the adults' perceptions of ‘use’ for overall QOL were significantly affected by his/her socio‐economic data, that is, residence location and father's educational level.

Conclusions  The present study addressed the issue of self‐reported QOL in people with ID in Taiwanese society, becoming a possible benchmark for similar measurements carried out by disability movements there. These results contribute to current advocacy efforts towards creating a supportive environment for people with ID.
Regulation of G protein‐coupled cAMP receptor activation by a hydrophobic residue in transmembrane helix 3
Authors: Zhang Minghang , Goswami Mousumi , Sawai Satoshi , Cox Edward C. , Hereld Dale
Published: July 2007

cAR1, a G protein‐coupled cAMP receptor, is essential for multicellular development of Dictyostelium. We previously identified a cAR1‐Ile104 mutant that appeared to be constitutively activated based on its constitutive phosphorylation, elevated affinity for cAMP, and dominant‐negative effects on development as well as specific cAR1 pathways that are subject to adaptation. To investigate how Ile104 might regulate cAR1 activation, we assessed the consequences of substituting it with all other amino acids. Constitutive phosphorylation of these Ile104 mutants varied broadly, suggesting that they are activated to varying extents, and was correlated with polarity of the substituting amino acid residue. Remarkably, all Ile104 substitutions, except for the most conservative, dramatically elevated the receptor's cAMP affinity. However, only a third of the mutants (those with the most polar substitutions) blocked development. These findings are consistent with a model in which polar Ile104 substitutions perturb the equilibrium between inactive and active cAR1 conformations in favour of the latter. Based on homology with rhodopsin, Ile104 is likely buried within inactive cAR1 and exposed to the cytoplasm upon activation. We propose that the hydrophobic effect normally promotes burial of Ile104 and hence cAR1 inactivation, while polar substitution of Ile104 mitigates this effect, resulting in activation.
Trabeculectomy trapdoor separation with allergic periorbital dermatitis: an unusual late‐onset complication of guarded filtration surgery
Authors: Ooi Kenneth G‐J , Adler Paul A , Goldberg Ivan
Published: July 2007

Abstract

Hypotony post trabeculectomy may be the result of excessive aqueous outflow. Herein a case of an elderly man with excessive filtration 2 years post trabeculectomy resulting from trapdoor separation associated with allergic periorbital dermatitis is presented. Quaternary ammonium compounds are a significant cause of allergic periorbital dermatitis. Chronic rubbing associated with allergies to multiple topical quaternary ammonium compound‐containing ophthalmic preparations is likely to have contributed to the trapdoor autotrauma and separation in this man with a background of allergic contact dermatitis.
Liberalising Trade in the Agriculture Sector of a Small Island State: The Case of Fiji
Authors: Asafu‐Adjaye John
Published: July 2007

This paper uses Fiji as a case study to investigate the impacts of three trade liberalisation policies – removal of sugar price subsidies, unilateral trade liberalisation and multilateral trade liberalisation, implied by the successful completion of the Doha Round. Removal of the sugar price subsidies has an adverse effect on real output, real national welfare and employment, but promotes growth of non‐agricultural exports in the long run. Unilateral trade liberalisation, in the form of tariff cuts in the agricultural sector, increases real output, real national welfare and non‐agricultural exports in the medium term. However, this growth is not sustained in the long term. The best outcome for Fiji is multilateral trade liberalisation which increases real output, real national welfare, non‐agricultural exports and employment. It is argued that reform of trade policies in less developed countries could come at a cost, therefore highlighting the need for compensating mechanisms to deal with the adverse impacts. Other measures to assist farmers to expand output in response to a rise in prices could include measures to reduce transport, storage and packaging costs, as well as institutional measures to enhance the functioning of input and factor markets.
A Middle East Free Trade Area: Economic Interdependence and Peace Considered
Authors: Momani Bessma
Published: July 2007

The Bush administration hopes that through a Middle East Free Trade Area (MEFTA), peace and stability can be achieved through intra‐regional economic cooperation. The current impediments to intra‐regional economic cooperation, however, will make a MEFTA a hub‐and‐spoke trade relationship between the United States and the Middle East. Neoliberal arguments for the interrelation of peace and economic interdependence in the context of the Middle East are then considered.
Isolation and characterization of nine polymorphic microsatellite loci in the rock carp, Procypris rabaudi (Tchang)
Authors: ZHANG XIUYUE , YUE BISONG , FENG JINCHAO , SONG ZHAOBIN
Published: July 2007

Nine highly polymorphic microsatellite loci were isolated from AC‐ and GATA‐repeat microsatellite enrichment DNA libraries in the rock carp, Procypris rabaudi (Tchang). The number of alleles for these loci ranged from eight to 18 in tested individuals. Polymorphism information content ranged from 0.712 to 0.908 with an average of 0.837. Average observed and expected heterozygosities were 0.719 and 0.870, respectively. These molecular markers will be useful for the assessment of genetic diversity and analysis of population structure in wild rock carp.
Isolation, characterization and cross‐amplification of polymorphic microsatellite loci in Laelia speciosa (Orchidaceae)
Authors: CORTÉS‐PALOMEC AUREA C. , MCCAULEY ROSS A. , OYAMA KEN
Published: July 2007

Laelia speciosa is an endangered epiphytic orchid endemic to central Mexico. Here, we report on the development of 14 perfect and imperfect microsatellite repeat loci for this species. Numbers of alleles ranged from two to 16 and levels of observed heterozygosities among the 14 loci ranged from 0.28 to 1.00 across two widely divergent populations. All loci were also tested for cross‐amplification in four other Laelia species and other selected genera of the subtribe Laeliinae.
Predicting marital satisfaction: Social absorption and individuation versus attachment anxiety and avoidance
Authors: CHARANIA MAHNAZ R. , ICKES WILLIAM
Published: July 2007

The incremental validity of social absorption and social individuation in predicting relationship satisfaction beyond anxious and avoidant attachment was assessed in a sample of 400 heterosexual couples. Results indicated that the actor’s and partner’s social absorption scores and the absolute difference between the partners’ social individuation scores made significant unique contributions to the actor’s satisfaction in a model that included avoidant and anxious attachment. This model accounted for 49% of the variance in the actors’ satisfaction scores. Satisfaction was high when both partners were predisposed toward behavioral interdependence but suffered when the partners were discrepant in their need to cognitively distinguish self and other. Possible explanations for these findings and their implications for marital satisfaction are discussed.
Altered Gene Expression Profiles in the Frontal Cortex of Cirrhotic Alcoholics
Authors: Liu Jianwen , Lewohl Joanne M. , Harris R. Adron , Dodd Peter R. , Mayfield R. Dayne
Published: July 2007

Background:  Cirrhosis is the result of chronic liver disease that causes scarring and dysfunction of the liver. The disease is a common concomitant condition resulting from sustained exposure to alcohol. Heavy alcohol use results in brain damage that is generally more severe in cirrhotic compared with noncirrhotic alcoholics. We examined, at the cellular level, gene expression in the frontal cortex of cirrhotic alcoholics.

Methods:  Gene expression profiles were compared between cirrhotic and noncirrhotic alcoholics using ∼47,000 element cDNA microarrays.

Results:  Widespread differences in transcriptome patterns were observed in cirrhotic compared with noncirrhotic alcoholics and these differences in gene expression accurately distinguished cirrhotic from noncirrhotic alcoholics. Functionally related groups of genes were identified that are involved in cell adhesion, mitochondrial function, synaptic transmission, apoptosis, and cell proliferation. Both astrocytes and neuronal cells were affected at the transcriptional level. The regulated genes are involved in neurite growth, neuronal cell adhesion, synaptic vesicle release, and postsynaptic neurotransmission.

Conclusions:  These changes in the transcriptome likely contribute to the more severe brain dysfunction in cirrhotic alcoholics.
Poor but allocatively efficient—evidence from the Eastern Amazon
Authors: Sauer Johannes , Mendoza‐Escalante Arisbe
Published: July 2007

This research empirically investigates the well‐known “poor‐but‐efficient” hypothesis formulated by Schultz (1964) assuming that small‐scale farmers in developing countries are reasonably efficient in allocating their scarce resources by responding positively to price incentives. Deviating from Schultz it is assumed here that scale effects explain a considerable proportion of small‐scale farmers' relative efficiency. The theoretical underpinnings of the scale efficiency concept are briefly reviewed before a normalized generalized Leontief (GL) profit function is modeled by using its output supply and input demand system to capture the joint production of cassava flour and maize by a sample of small‐scale farmers in the Bragantina region of the Eastern Amazon, Brazil. The discussion of theoretical consistency and functional flexibility is considered by imposing convexity on the GL profit framework. The empirical results confirm our revised hypothesis that small farmers in traditional development settings are “poor‐but‐allocatively efficient” by clearly suggesting considerable inefficiency with respect to the scale of operations.
Treatment of Parthenium dermatitis with methotrexate
Authors: Sharma Vinod K. , Bhat Radhakrishna , Sethuraman Gomathy , Manchanda Yashpal
Published: July 2007

Patients with parthenium dermatitis are often unresponsive to topical steroids, and immunosuppressive agents may be necessary to reduce their need for systemic corticosteroids. We evaluated the efficacy of methotrexate in parthenium dermatitis. Sixteen patients unresponsive to topical treatment were included after baseline investigations, and treated with oral methotrexate (15 mg/week). Clinical response was monitored using a dermatitis area and severity index (DASI). Seven patients completed ≥6 months’ follow‐up, and their mean DASI fell to 5, 2.7 and 2.1 at the end of 1, 3 and 6 months respectively, from a baseline score of 10. Only 3/7 patients required oral prednisolone in the initial 2–4 weeks. Side effects were minor, being mainly folliculitis and furuncles. Methotrexate may hence be a useful alternative for patients with severe parthenium dermatitis.
Keratinocyte cultures from involved skin in vitiligo patients show an impaired in vitro behaviour
Authors: Bondanza Sergio , Maurelli Riccardo , Paterna Patrizia , Migliore Eleonora , Giacomo Fabio Di , Primavera Giovanni , Paionni Emanuel , Dellambra Elena , Guerra Liliana
Published: July 2007

Vitiligo depigmentation is considered a consequence of either melanocyte disappearance or loss of functioning melanocytes in the involved areas. However, it has been reported that keratinocytes in involved vitiligo skin are damaged too. Based on this evidence, we evaluated the in vitro behaviour, in life span cultures, of involved and uninvolved vitiligo keratinocytes and their expression of proliferation, differentiation and senescence markers. An additional purpose was to investigate whether vitiligo keratinocytes from depigmented skin are able to sustain survival and growth of normal melanocytes (when added in co‐culture experiments), as normal human keratinocytes manage to do. Our results demonstrate that almost all involved vitiligo keratinocytes have a shorter life span in vitro than the uninvolved cells and all of them do not maintain melanocytes in culture in a physiological ratio. Modification of proliferation and senescence marker expression also occurs. Indeed, we detected low initial expression levels of the senescence marker p16 in involved vitiligo keratinocytes, despite their shorter in vitro life span, and increased expression of proliferating cell nuclear antigen and p53. This preliminary analysis of a small number of in vitro cultured vitiligo keratinocytes suggests an impaired senescence process in lesional vitiligo keratinocytes and attempts to regulate it.
Antiphospholipid Antibodies: Effects on Trophoblast and Endothelial Cells
Authors: D’Ippolito Silvia , Di Simone Nicoletta , Di Nicuolo Fiorella , Castellani Roberta , Caruso Alessandro
Published: July 2007

Problem  Antiphospholipid syndrome (APS) may affect placental functions through several possible mechanisms. Interaction of antiphospholipid antibodies (aPL) with cells involved in the coagulation cascade is thought to produce a procoagulant state. Thrombotic placental pathology is however not specific for the APS.

Method of study  An analysis of published data.

Results  It is now generally accepted that the clinically relevant aPL bind to proteins with affinity for phospholipids (PL), such as β2‐glycoprotein I (β2‐GPI). Following the attachment of β2‐GPI to trophoblast anionic PL, both molecules undergo conformational changes resulting in the exposure of cryptic epitopes within the structure of β2‐GPI. This may allow the subsequent binding of antibodies hence affecting trophoblast functions directly.

Moreover anti‐β2‐GPI antibodies induce the activation of endothelial cells (ECs), resulting in a proinflammatory state which favours the prothrombotic diathesis of the syndrome.

Conclusion  Numerous ameliorations in the APS knowledge have been introduced in the last few years. To have clarified the mechanism of antibody mediated damage on trophoblast and ECs represents an important step to explain the cellular events leading to pregnancy complications.
Effects of shade, drought and daughter cladodes on the CO2 uptake by cladodes of Opuntia ficus‐indica
Authors: Pimienta‐Barrios E. , Castillo‐Cruz I. , Zañudo‐Hernández J. , Méndez‐Morán L , Nobel P.S.
Published: July 2007

The effects of shade on the physiology of opuntias have received little attention, notwithstanding that shade regularly occurs in both wild stands and cultivated populations. This research evaluates the effects of shade on the physiology of cladodes of Opuntia ficus‐indica, with and without daughter cladodes, as they are exposed to progressive drought. The stress caused by shade, drought and daughter cladodes reduced photosynthesis by mother cladodes and was associated with decreases in relative water content, parenchyma thickness and chlorophyll content. Shade exacerbated the physiological drought of mother cladodes imposed by daughter cladodes and by reduced soil water content.
Discovery and Design of Novel HSP90 Inhibitors Using Multiple Fragment‐based Design Strategies
Authors: Huth Jeffrey R. , Park Chang , Petros Andrew M. , Kunzer Aaron R. , Wendt Michael D. , Wang Xilu , Lynch Christopher L. , Mack Jamey C. , Swift Kerry M. , Judge Russell A. , Chen Jun , Richardson Paul L. , Jin Sha , Tahir Stephen K. , Matayoshi Edward D. , Dorwin Sarah A. , Ladror Uri S. , Severin Jean M. , Walter Karl A. , Bartley Diane M. , Fesik Stephen W. , Elmore Steven W. , Hajduk Philip J.
Published: July 2007

The molecular chaperone HSP90 has been shown to facilitate cancer cell survival by stabilizing key proteins responsible for a malignant phenotype. We report here the results of parallel fragment‐based drug design approaches in the design of novel HSP90 inhibitors. Initial aminopyrimidine leads were elaborated using high‐throughput organic synthesis to yield nanomolar inhibitors of the enzyme. Second site leads were also identified which bound to HSP90 in two distinct conformations, an ‘open’ and ‘closed’ form. Intriguingly, linked fragment approaches targeting both of these conformations were successful in producing novel, micromolar inhibitors. Overall, this study shows that, with only a few fragment hits, multiple lead series can be generated for HSP90 due to the inherent flexibility of the active site. Thus, ample opportunities exist to use these lead series in the development of clinically useful HSP90 inhibitors for the treatment of cancers.
Antibacterial Activity and Mechanical Properties of Partially Hydrolyzed Sago Starch–Alginate Edible Film Containing Lemongrass Oil
Authors: Maizura M. , Fazilah A. , Norziah M.H. , Karim A.A.
Published: July 2007

ABSTRACT:  Edible films were prepared from a mixture of partially hydrolyzed sago starch and alginate (SA). Lemongrass oil (0.1% to 0.4%, v/w) and glycerol (0% and 20%, w/w) were incorporated in the films to act as natural antimicrobial agent and plasticizer, respectively. The films were characterized for antimicrobial activity, water vapor permeability (WVP), tensile strength (TS), percent elongation at break (%E), and water solubility (WS). Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy was conducted to determine functional group interactions between the matrix and lemongrass oil. The zone of inhibition was increased significantly (P < 0.05) by addition of lemongrass oil at all levels in the presence and the absence of glycerol. This indicates that the film containing lemongrass oil was effective against Escherichia coli O157:H7 at all levels. In the absence of glycerol, the tensile strength of film decreased as the oil content increased, but there was no significant (P > 0.05) difference in percent elongation. The percent elongation at break and WVP values for film with 20% glycerol was found to be increased significantly (P < 0.05) with an increase in lemongrass oil content. Addition of lemongrass oil did not have any interaction with the functional groups of films as measured by FTIR.
Hepatic differentiation of human bone marrow‐derived UE7T‐13 cells: Effects of cytokines and CCN family gene expression
Authors: Shimomura Takashi , Yoshida Yoko , Sakabe Tomohiko , Ishii Kyoko , Gonda Kazue , Murai Rie , Takubo Kazuko , Tsuchiya Hiroyuki , Hoshikawa Yoshiko , Kurimasa Akihiro , Hisatome Ichiro , Uyama Taro , Umezawa Akihiro , Shiota Goshi
Published: July 2007

Aim:  Bone marrow‐derived mesenchymal stem cells (MSC) are expected to be an excellent source of cells for transplantation. We aimed to study the culture conditions and involved genes to differentiate MSC into hepatocytes.

Methods:  The culture conditions to induce the efficient differentiation of human bone marrow‐derived UE7T‐13 cells were examined using cytokines, hormones, 5‐azacytidine and type IV collagen.

Results:  We found that combination of acidic fibroblast growth factor (aFGF), basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF) and hepatocyte growth factor (HGF) with type IV collagen coating induced hepatic differentiation of UE7T‐13 cells at over 30% frequency, where expression of albumin mRNA was increased over 20‐fold. The differentiated cells had functions of albumin production, glycogen synthesis and urea secretion as well as expressing hepatocyte‐specific genes. In addition, these cellshave binuclear and cuboidal morphology, which is a characteristic feature of hepatocytes. During hepatic differentiation, UE7T‐13 cells showed depressed expression of WISP1 and WISP2 genes, members of the CCN family. Conversely, knockdown of WISP1 or WISP2 gene by siRNA stimulated hepatic differentiation. The effect of aFGF/bFGF/HGF/type IV collagen coating and WISP1‐siRNA on hepatic differentiation was additive.

Conclusion:  The present study suggests that aFGF/bFGF/HGF/type IV collagen coating is the efficient condition for hepatic differentiation of UE7T‐13 cells, and that WISP1 and WISP2 play an important role in hepatic transdifferentiation of these cells.
Control Options for Load Rejection in a Three-Shaft Closed Cycle Gas Turbine Power Plant
Authors: Botha B. W. , Rousseau P. G.
Published: July 2007

An important issue to be addressed in power plants is the continued operation during load transients, such as load following and load rejection. It is inevitable that with new power plant technology, new control strategies will be required. One such technology investigated for commercial power plants is that of a three-shaft recuperative inter-cooled closed-loop Brayton cycle with a high-temperature gas-cooled nuclear reactor as the heat source and helium as coolant. Because of its unique configuration, the utilization of traditional power plant control strategies is limited. In order to address this, detailed cycle analyses were performed to identify new potential control strategies. The analyses were done using the Flownex thermohydraulic systems CFD simulation software since it is ideally suited for component and system integration. It also enables designers to simulate complex load scenarios and design-suitable controller algorithms. It was therefore possible to investigate control options for one of the most severe load control scenarios, i.e., that of full load rejection due to the loss of the grid power. This paper briefly describes the various control strategies investigated and presents details of the two strategies showing the most promising results with regard to load rejection.
Characterization of Fuel Composition Effects in H2∕CO∕CH4 Mixtures Upon Lean Blowout
Authors: Zhang Qingguo , Noble David R. , Lieuwen Tim
Published: July 2007

This paper describes measurements of the dependence of lean blowout limits upon fuel composition for H2∕CO∕CH4 mixtures. Blowout limits were obtained at fixed approach flow velocity, reactant temperature, and combustor pressure at several conditions. Consistent with prior studies, these results indicate that the percentage of H2 in the fuel dominates the mixture blowout characteristics. That is, flames can be stabilized at lower equivalence ratios, adiabatic flame temperatures, and laminar flame speeds with increasing H2 percentage. In addition, the blowoff phenomenology qualitatively changes with hydrogen levels in the fuel, being very different for mixtures with H2 levels above and below about 50%. It is shown that standard well stirred reactor based correlations, based upon a Damköhler number with a diffusivity ratio correction, can capture the effects of fuel composition variability on blowoff limits.
Creep Strength and Microstructure of AL20-25+Nb Alloy Sheets and Foils for Advanced Microturbine Recuperators
Authors: Maziasz P. J. , Shingledecker J. P. , Evans N. D. , Yamamoto Y. , More K. L. , Trejo R. , Lara-Curzio E.
Published: July 2007

The Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL) and ATI Allegheny Ludlum worked together on a collaborative program for about two years to produce a wide range of commercial sheets and foils of the new AL20-25+Nb™ (AL20–25+Nb) stainless alloy for advanced microturbine recuperator applications. There is a need for cost-effective sheets/foils with more performance and reliability at 650–750°C than 347 stainless steel, particularly for larger 200–250 kW microturbines. Phase 1 of this collaborative program produced the sheets and foils needed for manufacturing brazed plated-fin air cells, while Phase 2 provided foils for primary surface air cells, and did experiments on modified processing designed to change the microstructure of sheets and foils for improved creep-resistance. Phase 1 sheets and foils of AL20-25+Nb have much more creep-resistance than 347 steel at 700–750°C, and those foils are slightly stronger than HR120 and HR230. Results for Phase 2 showed nearly double the creep-rupture life of sheets at 750°C/100 MPa, and similar improvements in foils. Creep data show that Phase 2 foils of AL20-25+Nb alloy have creep resistance approaching that of alloy 625 foils. Testing at about 750°C in flowing turbine exhaust gas for 500 h in the ORNL Recuperator Test Facility shows that foils of AL20–25+Nb alloy have oxidation-resistance similar to HR120 alloy, and much better than 347 steel.
N O x Emissions of a Premixed Partially Vaporized Kerosene Spray Flame
Authors: Baessler Stefan , Mösl Klaus G. , Sattelmayer Thomas
Published: July 2007

An important question for future aeroengine combustors is how partial vaporization influences the NOx emissions of spray flames. In order to address this question an experimental study of the combustion of partially vaporized kerosene/air mixtures was conducted. This assesses the influence of the degree of fuel vaporization on the NOx emissions in a wide range of equivalence ratios covering the entire lean burning regime. The tests were performed at atmospheric pressure, inlet air temperatures of 313–376K, a reference mean air velocity of 1.35m∕s, and equivalence ratios of 0.6, 0.7, and 0.9 using Jet A1 fuel. An ultrasonic atomizer was used to generate a fuel spray with a Sauter Mean Diameter of approximately 50μm. The spray and the heated air were mixed in a glass tube of 71mm diameter and a variable length of 0.5–1m. The temperature of the mixing air and the length of the preheater tube were used for the control of the degree of vaporization. Downstream of the vaporizing section, the mixture was ignited and the flame was stabilized with a hot wire ring that was electrically heated. For local exhaust measurements a temperature controlled suction probe in combination with a conventional gas analysis system were used. The vaporized ratio of the injected fuel was determined by a Phase Doppler Anemometer (PDA). In order to optimize the accuracy of these measurements extensive validation tests with a patternator method were performed and a calibration curve was derived. The data collected in this study illustrates the effect of the vaporization rate ψ upstream of the flame front on the NOx emissions which changes with varying equivalence ratio and degree of vaporization. In the test case with low prevaporization the equivalence ratio only has a minor influence on the NOx emissions. Experiments made with air preheat and higher degrees of vaporization show two effects: With increasing preheat air temperature, NOx emissions increase due to higher effective flame temperatures. However, with an increasing degree of vaporization, emissions become lower due to the dropping number and size of burning droplets, which act as hot spots. A correction for the effect of the preheat temperature was developed. It reveals the effect of the degree of prevaporization and shows that the NOx emissions are almost independent of ψ for near-stoichiometric operation. At overall lean conditions the NOx emissions drop nonlinearly with ψ. This leads to the conclusion that a high degree of vaporization is required in order to achieve substantial NOx abatement.
GA-BASED DESIGN OF 2D STATE-SPACE DIGITAL FILTERS WITH LINEAR PHASE CHARACTERISTICS
Authors: NAM SANG-CHURL , ABE MASAHIDE , KAWAMATA MASAYUKI
Published: July 2007

This paper proposes a GA-based design method for two-dimensional (2D) state-space digital filters which satisfy simultaneously the magnitude response and constant group delays. The design problem of 2D state-space digital filters is formulated subject to the constraint that the resultant filters are stable. To apply the genetic algorithm to the design problem, all coefficients of 2D state-space digital filters are encoded into the Gray code representation demonstrating the superior performance to the standard binary one. In addition, a stability test routine is embedded in the design procedure in order to ensure the stability for the resultant filters. A numerical example is given to demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed method.
MODIFIED CONDITIONAL-PRECHARGE SENSE-AMPLIFIER-BASED FLIP-FLOP WITH IMPROVED SPEED
Authors: QIAO FEI , YANG HUAZHONG , WEI DINGLI , WANG HUI
Published: July 2007

A modified version of conditional-precharge sense-amplifier-based flip-flop (mCP-SAFF) is proposed. By using the differential clocked CMOS (C2MOS) latch with one shared output holder and the conditional-precharge modules to simplify the sense-amplifier latch, the mCP-SAFF can achieve a much shorter input to output delay (D-to-Q delay) and more symmetrical rising/falling delays than those of the original conditional-precharge sense-amplifier-based flip-flops (CP-SAFF). Post-layout simulation results show that the mCP-SAFF, compared with the widely used conventional DFF, does not suffer neither timing nor area penalties and have achieved up to 34% of power reduction ratio and 33% of power-delay-product (PDP) reduction ratio, respectively. And the mCP-SAFF is comparable to the prevailing DFFs with regard to noise immunity performance.
ADAPTIVE MESHFREE METHOD BASED ON ADDING AND MOVING NODES
Authors: HAGIHARA SEIYA , MOTODA SHINJI , TSUNORI MITSUYOSHI , IKEDA TORU , MIYAZAKI NORIYUKI
Published: July 2007

The objective of the present research is to apply element-free Galerkin (EFG) method to adaptive analyses. It is necessary to estimate error of numerical solutions of EFG method for adaptive analyses to evaluate accuracy of EFG method. Posteriori errors can be estimated by differences of solutions between the linear and the quadratic basis functions. But it is not economical to perform the two respective calculations in regard to the linear and the quadratic basis function. Then the linear function is used only when the stiffness matrix is calculated. Then both the linear and the quadratic basis function are used when the stress and strain are calculated. The error estimation is performed in an each background cell by using the error of energy norm. In the adaptive analysis, a node is added at the quadrature point which is the same as the center of gravity of a background cell where the error is higher than the threshold value.

The nodal relocation method is applied to smoothing the distribution of nodes in domain of an analysis model. The nodal relocation method in which nodes are automatically moved and relocated using physical interbubble forces called bubble meshing for FEM is applied to the adaptive analysis after additional nodes are generated. The nodes are relocated corresponding to the error of the background cells. The calculations of the analysis can be repeated again after the posteriori error estimation.

The adaptive EFG method and the nodal relocation method are applied to a problem of an infinite plate with a hole subjected to a uniform tension. Nodal density is increased at the vicinity of the hole where the error is large in the analysis. The nodal relocation method can be successful to relocate the nodes which are generated at the quadrature points of higher posteriori error. The difference between the calculated solution and the exact solution are smaller than that of the previous solution as the calculations are repeated.
Anticipated Guilt as Motivation to Help Unknown Others
Authors: Lindsey Lisa L. Massi , Kimo Ah Yun  , Hill Jennifer B.
Published: July 2007

Previous research finds that messages that induce substantial perceptions of (a) an unknown-other directed threat, (b) response-efficacy, and (c) self-efficacy result in feelings of anticipated guilt that subsequently motivate behavioral intent, and ultimately, behaviors to avert the threat to unknown others. It is not clear, however, if certain individual differences make people more or less likely to experience anticipatory guilt. To this end, this study asks whether empathic concern and perspective taking moderates the relationship between exposure to such a message and anticipated guilt. This question is tested by focusing on the topic of bone marrow donation. Participants are assigned randomly to 1 of 3 message conditions and complete a questionnaire designed to assess perspective taking, empathic concern, and anticipated guilt. The data indicate that the message has a substantial direct effect on guilt anticipation, and neither a direct effect for the empathy dimensions nor an interaction effect between empathy and anticipated guilt are present.