bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Decisions about life‐sustaining measures in children: in whose best interests?
Authors: Cornfield David N , Kahn Jeffrey P
Published: November 2011

As the community of physicians and nurses dedicated to the care of critically ill children has gained ever more well‐developed skill sets, the decision to either continue or forego life‐sustaining measures has become less time‐sensitive. As a result, there is greater opportunity for careful consideration and discussion. The core principle in making decisions about whether to continue or forego life‐sustaining measures is the best interests of the child. However, there are many clinical situations wherein factors other than the child’s best interests may influence treatment decisions. The present report seeks to examine the notion that in the arena of paediatric critical care medicine, the decision‐making process regarding life‐sustaining measures may place insufficient priority upon the child’s best interests. We examine actual, de‐identified clinical situations, encountered in the critical care arena in two categories: (i) cases that challenge the imperative to act in the child’s best interests, and (ii) cases that compromise the ability of parents and caregivers to use child‐centred, best‐interests approaches to decision‐making. Clarity surrounding the implications of a clinical decision for the patient is essential. Decisions that are not focused squarely on the child’s best interests may compromise the delivery of optimally ethical end‐of‐life care.

Conclusion:  The cases and analysis may benefit parents and caregivers as they struggle with the difficult ethical issues that accompany decisions to continue or forego life‐sustaining measures in children.
Bone mass development in patients with Duchenne and Becker muscular dystrophies: a 4‐year clinical follow‐up
Authors: Söderpalm Ann‐Charlott , Magnusson Per , Åhlander Anne‐Christine , Karlsson Jón , Kroksmark Anna‐Karin , Tulinius Már , Swolin‐Eide Diana
Published: November 2011

Aim:  To investigate the longitudinal development of bone mass in patients with Duchenne and Becker muscular dystrophies and to study the impact of muscle strength and motor function on bone mass in these patients.

Methods:  Eighteen patients with Duchenne muscular dystrophy (2.3–19.7 years at baseline) and six patients with the milder Becker muscular dystrophy (10.8–18.9 years at baseline) were followed during a 4‐year period with respect to areal bone mineral density (BMD), motor function and muscle strength.

Results:  Greater bone mineral accretion was observed in the Becker patient group compared with the age‐related Duchenne group above 10 years of age, and the older patients with Duchenne experienced decreased femoral neck BMD during the study period. In the study group, significant correlations were found between BMD in the lower extremities and muscle function parameters.

Conclusions:  The differences in BMD between patients with Duchenne and Becker as well as between different bone measurement sites demonstrated in the present study point out the importance of preserving muscle strength and motor function in patients with muscular dystrophy. Moreover; it highlights the value of performing region‐specific analysis of the bone quality in these patients.
Effects of diets supplemented with zinc and manganese on performance and related parameters in laying hens‡
Authors: YANG Xiaojun , ZHONG Lelun , AN Xiaofang , ZHANG Nan , ZHANG Limin , HAN Jincheng , YAO Junhu , COTE Charron , SUN Yajing
Published: November 2011

Iron is often found to be of excessive concentrations in laying hens' diets, which may cause antagonistic interactions with other minerals. This study was conducted to investigate how to supplement Zn and Mn in the diets without Fe supplementation. In experiment 1, 420 18‐week Lohmann Brown layers were fed a basal diet or a basal diet supplemented with 30–0, 65–30 and 100–60 mg/kg of Zn and Mn, respectively. In experiment 2, 360 40‐week Lohmann Brown layers were fed a basal diet or a basal diet supplemented with 15–0, 35–0 and 55–15 mg/kg of Mn and Zn, respectively. Minerals were supplemented in the form of sulfate. Egg production was improved by supplementing 30 mg/kg Zn or 65 mg/kg Zn in combination with 30 mg/kg Mn in experiment one. In experiment two, a significant reduction of egg performance occurred with 35 mg/kg Mn supplementation. Mn and/or Zn supplementation increased eggshell thickness in experiment one, and decreased yolk cholesterol in both experiments. Mn and/or Zn supplementation increased Zn and Mn excretion in both experiments. Serum growth hormone (GH), thyroxine (T4), and insulin levels, or alkaline phosphatase (AP) activity were not affected by treatments; serum estrogen (E2) and triiodothyronine (T3) were different but there was no consistency by dietary treatments. This study demonstrates that 30 mg/kg supplemental Zn is necessary to obtain maximal egg production, and there seems to be no need to supply Mn in this type of diet.
Effect of anthocyanin‐rich corn silage on digestibility, milk production and plasma enzyme activities in lactating dairy cows
Authors: HOSODA Kenji , ERUDEN Bayaru , MATSUYAMA Hiroki , SHIOYA Shigeru
Published: November 2011

Anthocyanin in purple corn (Zea mays L.) has been reported to show several functional and biological attributes, displaying antioxidant, antiobesity and antidiabetic effects in monogastric animals. The objective of this study was to investigate the effect of feeding anthocyanin‐rich corn (Zea mays L., Choko C922) silage on digestibility, milk production and plasma enzyme activities in lactating dairy cows. The cows were fed diets based on the control corn or the anthocyanin‐rich corn silage (AR treatment) in a crossover design. The anthocyanin‐rich corn silage‐based diet had a lower starch content, nutrient digestibility and total digestible nutrients content when compared to the control diet. The milk yield, lactose and solids‐not‐fat contents in the AR‐treatment cows were lower than in the control cows. The feeding of the anthocyanin‐rich corn silage led to a reduction in aspartate aminotransferase (AST) activity and an increase in superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity in the plasma. These data suggest that the anthocyanin‐rich corn has a lowering effect on AST activity with concomitant enhancement of SOD activity in lactating dairy cows. However, a new variety of anthocyanin‐rich corn with good nutritional value is needed for practical use as a ruminant feed.
The health of HIV‐exposed children after early weaning
Authors: Parker Megan E. , Tembo Martin , Adair Linda , Chasela Charles , Piwoz Ellen G. , Jamieson Denise J. , Ellington Sascha , Kayira Dumbani , Soko Alice , Mkhomawanthu Chimwemwe , Martinson Francis , van der Horst Charles M. , Bentley Margaret E. ,   for the BAN Study Team
Published: November 2011

There are potential health risks associated with the use of early weaning to prevent mother‐to‐child transmission of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) in resource‐poor settings. Our objective was to examine growth and nutrient inadequacies among a cohort of children weaned early. Children participating in the Breastfeeding Antiretrovirals and Nutrition (BAN) Study in Lilongwe, Malawi, had HIV‐infected mothers, were weaned at 6 months and fed LNS until 12 months. 40 HIV‐negative, BAN‐exited children were compared with 40 HIV‐negative, community children matched on age, gender and local health clinic. Nutrient intake was calculated from 24‐h dietary recalls collected from BAN‐exited children. Anthropometric measurements were collected from BAN‐exited and matched community children at 15–16 months, and 2 months later. Longitudinal random effects sex‐stratified models were used to evaluate anthropometric differences between the two groups. BAN‐exited children consumed adequate energy, protein and carbohydrates but inadequate amounts of fat. The prevalence of inadequate micronutrient intakes were: 46% for vitamin A; 20% for vitamin B6; 69% for folate; 13% for vitamin C; 19% for iron; 23% for zinc. Regarding growth, BAN‐exited girls gained weight at a significantly lower rate {0.02 g kg−1 per day [95% confidence interval (CI): 0.01, 0.03]} than their matched comparison [0.05 g kg−1 per day (95% CI: 0.03, 0.07)]; BAN girls grew significantly slower [0.73 cm month−1 (95% CI: 0.40,1.06)] than their matched comparison (1.55 cm month−1[95% CI: 0.98, 2.12]). Among this sample of BAN‐exited children, early weaning was associated with dietary deficiencies and girls experienced reduced growth velocity. In resource‐poor settings, HIV prevention programmes must ensure that breastfeeding stop only once a nutritionally adequate and safe diet without breast milk can be provided.
Identification of Tyr74 and Tyr177 as substrate oxidation sites in cationic cell wall‐bound peroxidase fromPopulus alba L.
Authors: Shigeto Jun , Itoh Yoshitaka , Tsutsumi Yuji , Kondo Ryuichiro
Published: November 2011

Cationic cell wall‐bound peroxidase (CWPO‐C) has the capability to oxidize sinapyl alcohol, ferrocytochrome c, and synthetic lignin polymers, unlike most peroxidases that have been characterized in flowering plants, such as horseradish peroxidase andArabidopsis thalianaperoxidase A2. It has been suggested that the oxidation site is located on the CWPO‐C surface, and homology modeling and chemically modified CWPO‐C studies suggest that Tyr74 and/or Tyr177 are possible participants in the catalytic site. The present study clarifies the importance of these Tyr residues for substrate oxidation, using recombinant CWPO‐C and recombinant mutant CWPO‐C with phenylalanine substitution(s) for tyrosine. Such recombinant proteins, produced inEscherichia colias inclusion bodies, were successfully refolded to yield the active form, and purified recombinant protein solutions exhibited typical spectra of high‐spin ferric protein and displayed H2O2‐dependent oxidation of guaiacol, 2,6‐dimethoxyphenol, and syringaldazine. Measurement of peroxidase activity with these guaiacyl and syringyl compounds as reducing substrates indicated that a single mutation, Y74F or Y177F, resulted in substantial loss of oxidation activity (∼ 40–60% and 82%, respectively). Also, over 95% of the oxidation activity was lost with a double mutation, Y74F/Y177F. These results indicated that Tyr74 and Tyr177, rather than the heme pocket, play a central role in the oxidation of these substrates. This is the first report of active residues on an enzyme surface being identified in a plant peroxidase. This study also suggests that sinapyl alcohol incorporation into lignin is performed by a peroxidase that generates Tyr radicals on its surface.
Emerging Roles of Anacardic Acid and Its Derivatives: A Pharmacological Overview
Authors: Hemshekhar Mahadevappa , Sebastin Santhosh Martin , Kemparaju Kempaiah , Girish Kesturu S.
Published: November 2011

Abstract:  Anacardic acid (AA) is a bioactive phytochemical found in nutshell of Anacardium occidentale. Chemically, it is a mixture of several closely related organic compounds, each consisting of salicylic acid substituted with an alkyl chain. The traditional Ayurveda depicts nutshell oil as a medicinal remedy for alexeritic, amebicidal, gingivitis, malaria and syphilitic ulcers. However, the enduring research and emerging evidence suggests that AA could be a potent target molecule with bactericide, fungicide, insecticide, anti‐termite and molluscicide properties and as a therapeutic agent in the treatment of the most serious pathophysiological disorders like cancer, oxidative damage, inflammation and obesity. Furthermore, AA was found to be a common inhibitor of several clinically targeted enzymes such as NFκB kinase, histone acetyltransferase (HATs), lipoxygenase (LOX‐1), xanthine oxidase, tyrosinase and ureases. In view of this, we have made an effort to summarize the ongoing research on the therapeutical role of AA and its derivatives. The current MiniReview sheds light on the pharmacological applications, toxicity and allergic responses associated with AA and its derivatives. Although the available records are promising, much more detailed investigations into the therapeutical properties, particularly the anti‐cancer and anti‐inflammatory activities, are urgently needed. We hope the present MiniReview will attract and encourage further research on elucidating and appreciating the possible curative properties of AA and its derivatives in the management of multifactorial diseases.
TOWARD BETTER META‐ANALYTIC MATRICES: HOW INPUT VALUES CAN AFFECT RESEARCH CONCLUSIONS IN HUMAN RESOURCE MANAGEMENT SIMULATIONS
Authors: ROTH PHILIP L. , SWITZER III FRED S. , VAN IDDEKINGE CHAD H. , OH IN‐SUE
Published: November 2011

Simulations and analyses based on meta‐analytic matrices are fairly common in human resource management and organizational behavior research, particularly in staffing research. Unfortunately, the meta‐analytic values estimates for validity and group differences (i.e., ρ and δ, respectively) used in such matrices often vary in the extent to which they are affected by artifacts and how accurately the values capture the underlying constructs and the appropriate population. We investigate how such concerns might influence conclusions concerning key issues such as prediction of job performance and adverse impact of selection procedures, as well as noting wider applications of these issues. We also start the process of building a better matrix upon which to base many such simulations and analyses in staffing research. Finally, we offer guidelines to help researchers/practitioners better model human resources processes, and we suggest ways that researchers in a variety of areas can better assemble meta‐analytic matrices.
THE FALLOUT FROM ABUSIVE SUPERVISION: AN EXAMINATION OF SUBORDINATES AND THEIR PARTNERS
Authors: CARLSON DAWN S. , FERGUSON MERIDETH , PERREWÉ PAMELA L. , WHITTEN DWAYNE
Published: November 2011

Using spillover and crossover theory, we examined how subordinate's experience of abusive supervision impacts both subordinate's and partner's family domains. Specifically, a model was proposed and tested that examined the fallout from abusive supervision through 2 types of strain, work‐to‐family conflict and relationship tension, on family satisfaction of the subordinate and on family functioning of the partner. Using a matched set of 280 subordinates and partners, this study found that abusive supervision contributes to the experience of work‐to‐family conflict and relationship tension. Further, family satisfaction for the subordinate and family functioning for the partner were diminished through the experience of relationship tension. Interestingly, although the experience of work‐to‐family conflict contributed to relationship tension, it did not directly impact the family outcomes. We discuss the study's implications for theory, research, and practice while suggesting new research directions.
Fine‐scale Spatial Genetic Structure of Ten Dipterocarp Tree Species in a Bornean Rain Forest
Authors: Harata Tsuyoshi , Nanami Satoshi , Yamakura Takuo , Matsuyama Shuhei , Chong Lucy , Diway Bibian M. , Tan Sylvester , Itoh Akira
Published: November 2011

Fine‐scale spatial genetic structure is increasingly recognized as an important factor in the studies of tropical forest trees as it influences genetic diversity of local populations. The biologic mechanisms that generate fine‐scale spatial genetic structure are not fully understood. We studied fine‐scale spatial genetic structure in ten coexisting dipterocarp tree species in a Bornean rain forest using microsatellite markers. Six of the ten species showed statistically significant fine‐scale spatial genetic structure. Fine‐scale spatial genetic structure was stronger at smaller spatial scales (≤ 100 m) than at larger spatial scales (> 100 m) for each species. Multiple regression analysis suggested that seed dispersal distance was important at the smaller spatial scale. At the larger scale (> 100 m) and over the entire sample range (0–1000 m), pollinators and spatial distribution of adult trees were more important determinants of fine‐scale spatial genetic structure. Fine‐scale spatial genetic structure was stronger in species pollinated by less mobile small beetles than in species pollinated by the more mobile giant honeybee (Apis dorsata). It was also stronger in species where adult tree distributions were more clumped. The hypothesized mechanisms underlying the negative correlation between clump size and fine‐scale spatial genetic structure were a large overlap among seed shadows and genetic drift within clumped species.
Proteomic profiling of the hemolymph at the fifth instar of the silkworm Bombyx mori
Authors: Li Jian‐Ying , Li Ji‐Sheng , Zhong Bo‐Xiong
Published: November 2011

Abstract  Two‐dimensional gel electrophoresis (2‐DE) followed by matrix‐assisted laser desorption ionization – time‐of‐flight/time‐of‐flight mass spectrometry (MS) analysis were used to charaterize the hemolymph proteomic profiles of the silkworm, Bombyx mori. At days 4 (V4) and 5 (V5) of the fifth (final) instar, when the larvae were at the fast‐growing stage, we found dramatic changes in spots representing proteins having an approximate molecular weight (MW) of 30 kDa. Of these spots, four 30K proteins were highly up‐regulated, implying a close association with the growth and development of B. mori larvae. To understand the molecular basis and underlying mechanisms involved in development and metamorphosis, the proteome of whole hemolymph at V5 was analyzed using shotgun liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry with an LTQ‐Orbitrap. A total of 108 proteins were identified without any false discovery hits. These proteins were involved in a variety of cellular functions, including metabolism, development, nutrient transport and reserve, and defense response. Gene ontology analysis showed that 3.4% of these proteins had nutrient reservoir activities and 5.7% were involved in the response to stimulus. Pathway analysis revealed that 22 proteins with common targets were involved in various cellular processes such as immunity, differentiation, proliferation and metamorphosis. These results suggested that some key factors such as the 30K proteins in hemolymph play important roles in B. mori growth and development. Moreover, the multiple functions of hemolymph may be operated by a complex biological network.
Swift 1644+57: the longest gamma-ray burst?
Authors: Quataert E. , Kasen D.
Published: November 2011

Swift recently discovered an unusual gamma-ray and X-ray transient (Swift 1644+57) that was initially identified as a long-duration gamma-ray burst (GRB). However, the ∼10 keV X-ray emission has persisted for over approximately a month with a luminosity comparable to its peak value. The astrometric coincidence of the source with the centre of its host galaxy, together with other considerations, motivated the interpretation that Swift 1644+57 was produced by an outburst from a ∼106–107 M⊙ black hole at the centre of the galaxy. Here we consider the alternate possibility that Swift 1644+57 is indeed a long-duration GRB, albeit a particularly long one! We discuss the general properties of very long-duration, low-power GRB-like transients associated with the core-collapse of a massive star. Both neutron star (magnetar) spin-down and black hole accretion can power such events. The requirements for producing low-power, very long duration GRBs by magnetar spin-down are similar to those for powering extremely luminous supernovae by magnetar spin-down, suggesting a possible connection between these two unusual types of transients. Alternatively, Swift 1644+57 could be associated with the faintest core-collapse explosions: the collapse of a rotating red supergiant in a nominally failed supernova can power accretion on to a solar-mass black hole for up to ∼100 d; the jet produced by black hole accretion inevitably unbinds the outer envelope of the progenitor, leading to a weak ∼1049 erg explosion. In both neutron-star and black hole models, a jet can burrow through the host star in a few days, with a kinetic luminosity ∼1045–1046 erg s−1, sufficient to power the observed emission of Swift 1644+57.
EFFECT OF DENSE PHASE CARBON DIOXIDE PROCESSING ON MICROBIAL STABILITY AND PHYSICOCHEMICAL ATTRIBUTES OF HIBISCUS SABDARIFFA BEVERAGE
Authors: RAMÍREZ‐RODRIGUES MILENA M. , PLAZA MARIA L. , FERRENTINO GIOVANNA , BALABAN MURAT O. , REYES‐DE CORCUERA JOSÉ I. , MARSHALL MAURICE R.
Published: November 2011

Hibiscus beverage was treated with dense phase carbon dioxide (DPCD), and inactivation was determined using yeasts and molds (Y&M) and aerobic plate counts (APCs). A central composite design with pressure (13.8–34.5 MPa) and residence time (5–8 min) at constant temperature (40C) and %CO2 was used. A storage study (14 weeks at 4C) included the DPCD treated (34.5 MPa, 8% CO2, 6.5 min and 40C), thermal treated (HTST) (75C for 15 s) and untreated (control) beverages monitoring microbial growth, pH, °Brix, titratable acidity (TA) and color. A minimum of 5 and 0.85 log reductions for Y&M and APC was achieved for all DPCD treatments. APC remained ∼2 logs during the 14 weeks of storage, while Y&M were reduced ∼3 logs and remained stable for both DPCD and HTST samples. °Brix and pH were not affected by DPCD treatment, whereas TA increased. A slight decrease was observed for a*, b*, hue angle and chroma for all treatments. Overall results showed that DPCD can be competitive with HTST process producing a shelf stable product while minimally affecting its physicochemical attributes.

PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS

Hibiscus beverage processing requires an extraction step followed by a preservation method. New processing technologies such as dense phase carbon dioxide require little to no heat and may help to maintain the fresh‐like color, flavor and nutrients of the beverage. This research pursues the optimal processing conditions for a hibiscus beverage by comparing dense phase carbon dioxide processing with traditional pasteurization, and following the microbial stability and physicochemical attributes of these beverages after processing and during storage.
Screening‐Level Sensitivity Analysis for the Design of Pump‐and‐Treat Systems
Authors: Matott L. Shawn
Published: November 2011

Pump‐and‐treat systems can prevent the migration of groundwater contaminants and candidate systems are typically evaluated with groundwater models. Such models should be rigorously assessed to determine predictive capabilities and numerous tools and techniques for model assessment are available. While various assessment methodologies (e.g., model calibration, uncertainty analysis, and Bayesian inference) are well‐established for groundwater modeling, this paper calls attention to an alternative assessment technique known as screening‐level sensitivity analysis (SLSA). SLSA can quickly quantify first‐order (i.e., main effects) measures of parameter influence in connection with various model outputs. Subsequent comparisons of parameter influence with respect to calibration vs. prediction outputs can suggest gaps in model structure and/or data. Thus, while SLSA has received little attention in the context of groundwater modeling and remedial system design, it can nonetheless serve as a useful and computationally efficient tool for preliminary model assessment. To illustrate the use of SLSA in the context of designing groundwater remediation systems, four SLSA techniques were applied to a hypothetical, yet realistic, pump‐and‐treat case study to determine the relative influence of six hydraulic conductivity parameters. Considered methods were: Taguchi design‐of‐experiments (TDOE); Monte Carlo statistical independence (MCSI) tests; average composite scaled sensitivities (ACSS); and elementary effects sensitivity analysis (EESA). In terms of performance, the various methods identified the same parameters as being the most influential for a given simulation output. Furthermore, results indicate that the background hydraulic conductivity is important for predicting system performance, but calibration outputs are insensitive to this parameter (KBK). The observed insensitivity is attributed to a nonphysical specified‐head boundary condition used in the model formulation which effectively “staples” head values located within the conductivity zone. Thus, potential strategies for improving model predictive capabilities include additional data collection targeting the KBK parameter and/or revision of model structure to reduce the influence of the specified head boundary.
Osteocytes: central conductors of bone biology in normal and pathological conditions
Authors: Neve A. , Corrado A. , Cantatore F. P.
Published: November 2011

Osteocytes are the most abundant and longest‐living cells in the adult skeleton. For a long time, osteocytes were considered static and inactive cells, but in recent years, it has been suggested that they represent the key responder to various stimuli that regulate bone formation and remodelling as well as one of the key endocrine regulators of bone metabolism. Osteocytes respond to mechanical stimuli by producing and secreting several signalling molecules, such as nitric oxide and prostaglandin E2, that initiate local bone remodelling. Moreover, they can control bone formation by modulating the WNT signalling pathway, an essential regulator of cell fate and commitment, as they represent the main source of sclerostin, a negative regulator of bone formation. Osteocytes can also act as an endocrine organ by releasing fibroblast growth factor 23 and several other proteins (DMP‐1, MEPE, PHEX) that regulate phosphate metabolism. It has been demonstrated that various bone diseases are associated with osteocyte abnormalities, although it is not clear if these changes are the direct cause of the pathology or if they are secondary to the pathological changes in the bone microenvironment. Thus, a better understanding of these cells could offer exciting opportunities for new advances in the prevention and management of different bone diseases.
Evaluation of antidiabetic and antioxidant activity of Moringa oleifera in experimental diabetes
Authors: GUPTA Rajnish , MATHUR Manas , BAJAJ Vijay K. , KATARIYA Pawan , YADAV Sunita , KAMAL Raka , GUPTA Radhey S.
Published: November 2011

Background:  Moringa oleifera, a widely cultivated species in India, is an exceptionally nutritious vegetable with a variety of potential uses in treating rheumatism, venomous bites, and microbial infections. In the present study, we investigated the antidiabetic and antioxidant effects of methanol extracts of M. oleifera pods (MOMtE) in streptozotocin (STZ)‐induced diabetic albino rats.

Methods:  Diabetic rats were treated with 150 or 300 mg/kg MOMtE for 21 days and the antidiabetic effects of the extract were evaluated by measuring changes in biochemical parameters in the serum and pancreatic tissue. Two phytoconstituents, namely quercetin and kaempferol, were isolated from the MOMtE extract and their structures were determined using nuclear magnetic resonance and infrared spectroscopy.

Results:  The progression of diabetes was significantly reduced after MOMtE treatment. In treated rats, both doses of MOMtE induced a significant reduction in serum glucose and nitric oxide, with concomitant increases in serum insulin and protein levels. Furthermore, MOMtE treatment increased antioxidant levels in pancreatic tissue, with concomitant decreases in levels of thiobarbituric acid‐reactive substances. Histologic examination of the pancreas from diabetic rats showed degenerative changes in β‐cells; MOMtE treatment significantly reversed the histoarchitectural damage to the islets cells.

Conclusion:  In conclusion, M. oleifera exerts protective effects against STZ‐induced diabetes. The MOMtE exhibited significant antidiabetic and antioxidant activity and active constituents may be isolated from the extract for evaluation in future clinical studies.
The Last of the Milesians: The 1801 Anglo‐Irish Marriage Contract and The Wild Irish Girl
Authors: DOUGHERTY JANE ELIZABETH
Published: November 2011

Sydney Owenson wrote The Wild Irish Girl hoping to effect in reality a union between Britain and Ireland that was already irrevocably enshrined in law. The passage of the Union in 1801 was itself marked by a discourse of national marriage between Britain and Ireland, with Britain the groom and Ireland the bride, revealing the Union to have shared almost all the characteristics of the classic marriage contract. It is this discursive context that shapes Owenson's text and is responsible for the failure of the text's desired resolution, an allegorical marriage between Britain and Ireland.
The influence of AT1002 on the nasal absorption of molecular weight markers and therapeutic agents when co-administered with bioadhesive polymers and an AT1002 antagonist, AT1001
Authors: Song Keon-Hyoung , Eddington Natalie D
Published: November 2011

Objectives

The purpose of this study was to demonstrate the effects of the tight junction permeation enhancer, AT1002, on the nasal absorption of molecular weight markers and low bioavailable therapeutic agents co-administered with bioadhesive polymers or zonulin antagonist.

Methods

The bioadhesive polymers, carrageenan and Na-CMC, were prepared with AT1002 to examine the permeation-enhancing effect of AT1002 on the nasal absorption of inulin, calcitonin and saquinavir after nasal administration to Sprague–Dawley rats. Blood samples were collected over a 6-hour period from a jugular cannula. In addition, we determined whether AT1002 exerts a permeation-enhancing effect via activation of PAR-2 specific binding to a putative receptor of zonulin. To examine this zonulin antagonist, AT1001, was administered 30 min prior to dosing with an AT1002/inulin solution and blood samples were collected over a 6-hour period.

Key findings

The bioadhesive polymers did not directly increase the absorption of inulin, calcitonin and saquinavir, but promoted the permeation-enhancing effect of AT1002 when delivered nasally, thereby significantly increasing the absorption of each drug. Pre-treatment with AT1001 antagonized the zonulin receptor and significantly minimized the permeation-enhancing effect of AT1002.

Conclusion

These findings will assist in understanding the permeation-enhancing capability of and the receptor binding of AT1002. Further, combining AT1002 with carrageenan supports the development of the mucosal delivery of therapeutic agents that have low bioavailability even with bioadhesive agents.
NO-1886 ameliorates glycogen metabolism in insulin-resistant HepG2 cells by GSK-3β signalling
Authors: Wang Zong-bao , Zeng Huai-cai , Wei Han-song , Yi Guang-hui , Yu Jian , Wang Yue-ting , Zhang Ya-li , Yin Wei-dong
Published: November 2011

Objectives

The aim of the study was to elucidate the possible role and mechanism of NO-1886 (ibrolipim, a lipoprotein lipase activator) in ameliorating insulin resistance induced by high palmitate.

Methods

HepG2 cells were cultured in RPMI 1640 medium and were treated with palmitate to induce insulin resistance. Free fatty acids (FFAs), glucose, glycogen, cell viability and mRNA and protein levels were analysed separately.

Key findings

We found that HepG2 cells treated with 0.5 mm palmitate for 48 h led to a significant decrease of insulin-induced glucose consumption (from 2.89 ± 0.85 mm in the control to 0.57 ± 0.44 mm in palmitate). Insulin resistance (IR) of HepG2 cells was induced by 0.5 mm palmitate for 48 h. NO-1886 stimulated glucose consumption, glycogen synthesis and FFA absorption in insulin-resistant HepG2 cells. Maximum stimulation effects were observed with 10 µm NO-1886 for 24 h. Compared with the dimethyl sulfoxide-treated group, 2.5 µm NO-1886 or higher could induce the mRNA expression of lipoprotein lipase. Meanwhile, NO-1886 increased the protein content of P-GSK-3βser9 and decreased the protein level of GSK-3β in insulin-resistant HepG2 cells, but NO-1886 didn't change the protein levels of PI3-Kp85 and Akt2.

Conclusion

Lipoprotein lipase activator NO-1886 could increase glycogen synthesis in HepG2 cells and could ameliorate the insulin resistance, which was associated with GSK-3 signalling.
Surface Temperature and Heat Transfer Conditions in the Ablation of Shear Thinning and Shear Thickening Liquids
Authors: Steverding B.
Published: November 2011

The heat and mass transfer conditions for the ablation of Newtonian liquids have been described in a number of excellent articles. However, little attention has been paid to the behavior of non-Newtonian liquids for which the viscosity is not only a function of temperature but also of shear rate. This is astonishing since many excellent ablators behave in a non-Newtonian manner, especially when they contain foreign particles such as gas bubbles. The purpose of this paper is to study changes in heat and mass transfer if the ablator has a shear rate dependent viscosity. As a result of this study it will be shown that deviations from normal Newtonian behavior increase with increasing shear stress and decreasing bluntness of the cone. Surface temperatures are calculated as a function of Mach number, degree of non-Newtonian viscosity parameter, nose radius, and altitude. Numerical results are given for a model substance with the physical characteristics of Pyrex glass but with a hypothetically varying degree of non-Newtonian viscosity behavior.
The Formation of Calcium-Sulfate Scale on a Heated Cylinder in Crossflow and Its Removal by Acoustically Induced Cavitation
Authors: Fand R. M.
Published: November 2011

The data obtained in this experimental study are of two kinds: (a) They provide detailed information on the deposition of calcium-sulfate scale on a heated cylinder in crossflow under conditions of constant heat flux; and (b) they demonstrate that acoustically induced cavitation can remove deposits of calcium-sulfate scale from heated surfaces.
Two-Phase Turbulent Jet Prediction Analysis
Authors: Hetsroni G. , Wolberg J. R.
Published: November 2011

A two-phase two-dimensional turbulent jet is examined. While this jet is described by Reichardt’s equation, nevertheless a change in the mixing coefficient Cm is anticipated between the single and the two-phase jets. An experiment to determine this coefficient is discussed and σˆCm, the predicted uncertainty in the measured value of Cm is computed. Quantitative results are presented which can facilitate the design of an experiment for determining Cm to a desired level of accuracy.
Heat Transfer to Carbon Dioxide in the Immediate Vicinity of the Critical Point
Authors: Schnurr N. M.
Published: November 2011

Local heat-transfer coefficients are measured for carbon dioxide very near the thermodynamic critical point for flow through an electrically heated circular duct. The experiments cover a range of fluid bulk temperatures spanning the transposed critical temperature and of pressure from 1075 to 1110 psia (reduced pressure from 1.003 to 1.03). The data are correlated by the equation Nuz = 0.0266 Rez0.77 Prw0.55 where the Prandtl number is evaluated at the wall temperature and Nusselt and Reynolds numbers are evaluated at a variable reference temperature. The dominant heat transfer mechanism is found to be turbulent forced convection. There is evidence that free convection effects are also present.
On Some Effects of Couple Stresses in Fluids on Heat Transfer
Authors: Stokes Vijay K.
Published: November 2011

The effects of couple stresses in fluids on heat transfer are considered. The energy equation is examined in detail and a boundary-value problem has been solved to indicate the effects on heat transfer. It has been shown that a size-dependent effect comes which is not present in the nonpolar case (couple stresses absent).
Radiative Transfer Characteristics of Materials
Authors: Edwards D. K.
Published: November 2011

Accurate values of appropriate radiation characteristics are required for accurate predictions of radiation heat transfer. Reasons are given here to show that, visual appearances notwithstanding, many surfaces employed in engineering are, for purposes of calculating infrared power transfer rates, specular. Advances made in vacuum evaporation technology make it possible to create a variety of specular surfaces, and advances in high-speed computing circuitry make it possible to compute characteristics of such surfaces from measured optical constants of the materials and to calculate the resulting power transfer rates, including effects of directional and spectral selectivity and polarization. Theoretical understanding is not yet adequate to enable prediction of the optical constants, but measurement accuracy for specular reflectances has been advanced to a high level. Though theoretical progress has been slow, a two-electron model offers at least a useful correlation formula for representing measurements. Progress toward a practicable method of allowing for nongray, imperfectly specular, and imperfectly diffuse reflection has not been great, but studies have indicated that use of internal-total hemispherical emissivity for internal surfaces and external-total hemispherical emissivity for external surfaces often results in acceptable accuracy. Important improvements have been made in integrating sphere, heated cavity, and two-pi steradian mirror instruments capable of measuring directional reflectance regardless of the reflection distribution function of the specimen. Such measurement capabilities together with access to high-speed computers permit the appropriate total hemispherical characteristic to be obtained by numerical integration of measured values. Understanding of the accuracy and limitations of these instruments has been advanced by a convenient operator and matrix notation along with a consistent nomenclature. In addition to refinements in measurement techniques, there have been significant improvements in procedures and apparatus for simulating environmental factors which cause changes in radiation characteristics. Much progress has been made in allowing for line and band structure in gas radiation calculations. Measurements of intensity-to-line-spacing ratio S/d and line-width-to-spacing ratio γ/d have been made and correlated with narrow band models. Wide band models have been contrived and used to correlate measurements of band absorption A. Some success has also been made in predicting theoretically the three characteristics, S/d, γ/d, and A. On the analytical side, a method of formulation employing derivatives of the band absorption appears quite promising, at least when temperature gradients are not too severe. On the numerical side, development of computer programs capable of accounting for severe temperature gradients and other nonhomogeneities have been notable. Use of the Curtis-Godson approximation has been made in such programs to account for line effects.
Deterioration in Heat Transfer to Fluids at Supercritical Pressure and High Heat Fluxes
Authors: Shiralkar B. S. , Griffith Peter
Published: November 2011

At slightly supercritical pressure and in the neighborhood of the pseudocritical temperature (which corresponds to the peak in the specific heat at the operating pressure), the heat transfer coefficient between fluid and tube wall is strongly dependent on the heat flux. For large heat fluxes, a marked deterioration takes place in the heat transfer coefficient in the region where the bulk temperature is below the pseudocritical temperature and the wall temperature above the pseudocritical temperature. Equations have been developed to predict the deterioration in heat transfer at high heat fluxes and the results compared with previously available results for steam. Experiments have been performed with carbon dioxide for additional comparison. Limits of safe operation for a supercritical pressure heat exchanger in terms of the allowable heat flux for a particular flow rate have been determined theoretically and experimentally.
Effect of Container Capacitance on Thermal Transients in Plane Walls, Cylinders, and Spheres
Authors: Myers G. E. , Kotecki D. J.
Published: November 2011

The effect of container capacitance on the thermal response of plane walls, infinite cylinders, and spheres subjected to sudden changes in ambient temperature is analyzed. A series solution is presented for each geometry which can be obtained by the method of separation of variables. The first three eigenvalues necessary for the numerical evaluation of the series are tabulated for each configuration. Analytical curves are presented which enable the engineer to determine whether the exact solution must be used or whether an additional approximation can be made which allows a simplification to results commonly found in heat transfer textbooks.
The Influence of Vortex Generators on the Drag and Heat Transfer From a Circular Cylinder Normal to an Airstream
Authors: Johnson T. R. , Joubert P. N.
Published: November 2011

Experimental investigations were carried out to examine the effect of vortex generators on drag and heat transfer from a circular cylinder in a crossflow. The cylinder was fitted with two rows of vortex generators which were symmetrically placed on either side of and parallel to the front stagnation line. One configuration of vortex generator was used and the angular position of the rows from the front stagnation line was varied. In the heat transfer runs the vortex generator position remained unvaried. Results are presented to show the variation of drag coefficient with Reynolds number for several angular positions of the generator rows. Results are also presented to show the variation of Nusselt number with Reynolds number both for a cylinder with and without generators. These show that both decreases in drag coefficient and increases in Nusselt number can be obtained when vortex generators are fitted.
Atomic layer deposition for nanostructured Li-ion batteries
Authors: Knoops H. C. M. , Donders M. E. , van de Sanden M. C. M. , Notten P. H. L. , Kessels W. M. M.
Published: November 2011

Nanostructuring is targeted as a solution to achieve the improvements required for implementing Li-ion batteries in a wide range of applications. These applications range in size from electrical vehicles down to microsystems. Atomic layer deposition (ALD) could be an enabling technology for nanostructured Li-ion batteries as it is capable of depositing ultrathin films (1–100 nm) in complex structures with precise growth control. The potential of ALD is reviewed for three battery concepts that can be distinguished, i.e., particle-based electrodes, 3D-structured electrodes, and 3D all-solid-state microbatteries. It is discussed that a large range of materials can be deposited by ALD and recent demonstrations of battery improvements by ALD are used to exemplify its large potential.
Fabrication of silicon template with smooth tapered sidewall for nanoimprint lithography
Authors: He Jian , Richter K. , Bartha J. W. , Howitz S.
Published: November 2011

In this work, the authors developed reactive-ion etching processes to fabricate silicon templates with smooth tapered sidewalls for nanoimprint lithography. In these etching processes a dual-layer etching mask system was used to avoid the mask undercut. Electron beam lithography was used to define the patterns in the nanometer range. The etched structures have slightly tapered sidewalls and a surface roughness of less than 5 nm. The sidewall angle can be controlled from 90° down to 85° by varying the flow rate ratio of the etching and the passivation gas and the mask undercut is totally avoided. Using these etching processes, the authors successfully fabricated silicon templates with lateral dimensions down to 50 nm and aspect ratios up to 10 and with an etching rate above 100 nm/min. Using these silicon templates the demolding force in nanoimprint lithography can be significantly reduced.
A self‐adaptive case‐based reasoning system for dose planning in prostate cancer radiotherapy
Authors: Mishra Nishikant , Petrovic Sanja , Sundar Santhanam
Published: November 2011

Purpose:

Prostate cancer is the most common cancer in the male population. Radiotherapy is often used in the treatment for prostate cancer. In radiotherapy treatment, the oncologist makes a trade‐off between the risk and benefit of the radiation, i.e., the task is to deliver a high dose to the prostate cancer cells and minimize side effects of the treatment. The aim of our research is to develop a software system that will assist the oncologist in planning new treatments.

Methods:

A nonlinear case‐based reasoning system is developed to capture the expertise and experience of oncologists in treating previous patients. Importance (weights) of different clinical parameters in the dose planning is determined by the oncologist based on their past experience, and is highly subjective. The weights are usually fixed in the system. In this research, the weights are updated automatically each time after generating a treatment plan for a new patient using a group based simulated annealing approach.

Results:

The developed approach is analyzed on the real data set collected from the Nottingham University Hospitals NHS Trust, City Hospital Campus, UK. Extensive experiments show that the dose plan suggested by the proposed method is coherent with the dose plan prescribed by an experienced oncologist or even better.

Conclusions:

The developed case‐based reasoning system enables the use of knowledge and experience gained by the oncologist in treating new patients. This system may play a vital role to assist the oncologist in making a better decision in less computational time; it utilizes the success rate of the previously treated patients and it can also be used in teaching and training processes.
Complete Genome Sequence of a Novel Paramyxovirus, Tailam Virus, Discovered in Sikkim Rats
Authors: Woo Patrick C. Y. , Lau Susanna K. P. , Wong Beatrice H. L. , Wong Annette Y. P. , Poon Rosana W. S. , Yuen Kwok-Yung
Published: November 2011

We discovered a novel paramyxovirus, Tailam virus, of subfamily
Paramyxovirinae
, in the kidneys and spleens of Sikkim rats. The coding potential of its genome (3′-N-P/V/C-M-F-SH-TM-G-L-5′) is similar to those of Beilong virus and J virus, with putative proteins having 59.1 to 94.4% and 23.8 to 80.1% amino acid identities to those of Beilong virus and J virus, respectively.
ADAPTIVE OPEN-PLUS-CLOSED-LOOP CONTROL METHOD OF MODIFIED FUNCTION PROJECTIVE SYNCHRONIZATION IN COMPLEX NETWORKS
Authors: DU HONGYUE
Published: November 2011

This paper investigates the modified function projective synchronization (MFPS) in drive-response dynamical networks (DRDNs) with different nodes, which means that systems in nodes are strictly different. An adaptive open-plus-closed-loop (AOPCL) control method is proposed, which is a practically realizable method and can overcome the model mismatched to achieve synchronization. It is well known that each of the close-loop and open-loop control method possesses some advantages and disadvantages. By combining their advantages, the open-plus-closed-loop (OPCL) control method was proposed by Jackson and Grosu. For arbitrary nonlinear dynamic systems, dx/dt = F(x,t), Jackson and Grosu proved that there exists solutions, x(t), in the neighborhood of any arbitrary goal dynamics g(t) that are entrained to g(t), through the use of an additive controlling action, K(g,x,t) = H(dg/dt,g) + C(g,t)(g(t) - x), which is the sum of the open-loop action, H(dg/dt,g), and a suitable linear closed-loop (feedback) action C(g,t). This method is a practically realizable method and robust to limited accuracy of data and effects of noise. The AOPCL control method preserve the merits of OPCL control method and its closed loop control part can be automatically adapted to suitable constants. Considering time-delays are always unavoidably in the practical situations, MFPS in DRDNs with time-varying coupling delayed is further investigated by the proposed method. Corresponding numerical simulations are performed to verify and illustrate the analytical results.
GAUSS SUMMATION AND RAMANUJAN-TYPE SERIES FOR 1/π
Authors: LIU ZHI-GUO
Published: November 2011

Using some properties of the gamma function and the well-known Gauss summation formula for the classical hypergeometric series, we prove a four-parameter series expansion formula, which can produce infinitely many Ramanujan-type series for 1/π.