bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Quantification by Real-Time PCR Assay of Staphylococcus aureus Load: a Useful Tool for Rapidly Identifying Persistent Nasal Carriers
Authors: Verhoeven Paul O. , Grattard Florence , Carricajo Anne , Lucht Frédéric , Cazorla Céline , Garraud Olivier , Pozzetto Bruno , Berthelot Philippe
Published: April 2012

The Cepheid Xpert MRSA/SA nasal PCR assay was compared to culture for quantifying
Staphylococcus aureus
load from 104 nasal samples (
r
= 0.91,
P
< 0.0001). Using a bacterial load-based algorithm, the test was found able to predict the carrier state in 32 of 35 healthy volunteers (22 persistent and 13 nonpersistent carriers).
Analysis of the Excretion Dynamics and Genotypic Characteristics of Rotavirus A during the Lives of Pigs Raised on Farms for Meat Production
Authors: Miyazaki Ayako , Kuga Kazufumi , Suzuki Tohru , Tsunemitsu Hiroshi
Published: April 2012

To determine the excretion dynamics and genotypic characteristics of rotavirus A (RVA), a longitudinal observational study was performed in 10 pigs from 3 litters at a farrow-to-finish farm. A total of 400 fecal samples were directly collected from the rectums of individual pigs (aged 7 to 217 days) at 3- to 14-day intervals. Seventy-one samples (17.5%) were positive for RVA by reverse transcription-PCR designed to detect the VP7 and VP4 genes. At least 13 combinations of 5 G (G2, G4, G5, G9, and G11) and 6 P (P[6], P[7], P[13], P[23], P[27], and P[34]) genotypes were identified by direct sequencing of the PCR products. We were able to detect RVA VP7 sequences from each pig 4 to 6 times with intervals of 7 to 52 days (from 7 to 119 days of age). Each pig harbored RVAs with at least 3 to 6 different combinations of G and P genotypes, while repeated excretions of RVAs carrying the same combinations of G and P genotypes were also observed. Virus shedding and changes in G and P genotypes appeared to be associated with movement of the pigs into weaning, growing, and finishing barns. These results indicated that, over their lifetimes, pigs raised for meat frequently and intermittently excrete genetically diverse RVAs.
Human Papillomavirus Type 16 Genetic Variants: Phylogeny and Classification Based on E6 and LCR
Authors: Cornet Iris , Gheit Tarik , Franceschi Silvia , Vignat Jerome , Burk Robert D. , Sylla Bakary S. , Tommasino Massimo , Clifford Gary M. ,   the IARC HPV Variant Study Group
Published: April 2012

Naturally occurring genetic variants of human papillomavirus type 16 (HPV16) are common and have previously been classified into 4 major lineages; European-Asian (EAS), including the sublineages European (EUR) and Asian (As), African 1 (AFR1), African 2 (AFR2), and North-American/Asian-American (NA/AA). We aimed to improve the classification of HPV16 variant lineages by using a large resource of HPV16-positive cervical samples collected from geographically diverse populations in studies on HPV and/or cervical cancer undertaken by the International Agency for Research on Cancer. In total, we sequenced the entire E6 genes and long control regions (LCRs) of 953 HPV16 isolates from 27 different countries worldwide. Phylogenetic analyses confirmed previously described variant lineages and subclassifications. We characterized two new sublineages within each of the lineages AFR1 and AFR2 that are robustly classified using E6 and/or the LCR. We could differentiate previously identified AA1, AA2, and NA sublineages, although they could not be distinguished by E6 alone, requiring the LCR for correct phylogenetic classification. We thus provide a classification system for HPV16 genomes based on 13 and 32 phylogenetically distinguishing positions in E6 and the LCR, respectively, that distinguish nine HPV16 variant sublineages (EUR, As, AFR1a, AFR1b, AFR2a, AFR2b, NA, AA1, and AA2). Ninety-seven percent of all 953 samples fitted this classification perfectly. Other positions were frequently polymorphic within one or more lineages but did not define phylogenetic subgroups. Such a standardized classification of HPV16 variants is important for future epidemiological and biological studies of the carcinogenic potential of HPV16 variant lineages.
Cerebrovascular geometry in the anterior circulation: an analysis of diameter, length and the vessel taper
Authors: Rai Ansaar T , Hogg Jeffery P , Cline Brendan , Hobbs Gerald
Published: April 2012

Background

A study was undertaken to determine the typical length, diameter and taper of vessels in the anterior cerebral circulation.

Methods

The sample size was calculated at 100 patients based on similar measurements in the literature and divided into cohorts based on gender and side. These patients were consecutively collected from a population that had undergone CT angiography and did not have any vascular abnormality. The arterial diameter was measured at the proximal cavernous internal carotid artery (ICA), the ICA terminus, the middle cerebral artery (MCA) origin and an M2 origin. The length between these endpoints was calculated along the center line. The vessel taper was calculated for the ICA as the change in caliber per unit length.

Results

The mean length of the ICA from the proximal cavernous segment to the ICA terminus was 33.1±6.1 mm. The mean diameter at the cavernous ICA and the ICA terminus was 5±0.6 mm and 3.6±0.4 mm, respectively. The mean ICA taper was 0.04±0.02 mm/1 mm. For the MCA, the diameter at the MCA and M2 origins measured 3.1±0.4 mm and 2.4±0.4 mm, respectively. The mean MCA length was 22.5±8.1 mm. There was no significant difference based on gender or between right and left sides. Patients aged >60 years had longer ICAs (p=0.02), larger cavernous ICA (p=0.003), ICA terminus (p<0.0001) and MCA origin (p=0.01) diameters than those aged 40–60 years. The ICA vessel taper did not change with age.

Conclusion

ICA and MCA vessel size did not change based on gender or side. Older patients had more redundant vessels based on diameter and length. The ICA has a gentle taper from its proximal cavernous segment to the ICA terminus. This information can be important in planning interventions or designing endovascular devices.
BLACK HOLES AND COLLISION ENERGY IN THE CENTER-OF-MASS FRAME
Authors: HUSSAIN IBRAR
Published: April 2012

It is shown that in the background of the Ayòn–Beato–Garcìa–Bronnikov (ABGB) black hole, the center-of-mass (CM) energy of collision for two charged particles falling freely from rest at infinity is infinite at the event horizon if one of the colliding particle has critical charge and the other one has any different value of the charge. For the Einstein–Maxwell-dilaton–axion (EMDA) black hole it is found that the CM energy of collision for two uncharged particles falling freely from rest at infinity remains finite. In the case of Bañados–Teitelboim–Zanelli (BTZ) black hole the CM energy of collision for two uncharged particles falling freely from rest at infinity is infinite at the event horizon if there is no rotation. It is observed that in the case of the extremal rotating BTZ black hole, at the event horizon this CM energy remains finite.
RELATING TOP-DOWN WITH BOTTOM-UP APPROACHES IN THE EVALUATION OF ABS WITH LARGE COLLATERAL POOLS
Authors: DIENER NICOLAS , JARROW ROBERT , PROTTER PHILIP
Published: April 2012

This paper uses a conditional law of large numbers and a conditional central limit theorem to provide simplified asymptotic valuation formulas for credit derivatives on baskets, including synthetic and cash-flow CDOs. In particular, approximate pricing procedures are provided for synthetic and cash-flow CDOs. In the process, this paper also clarifies the relation between the "top-down" and "bottom-up" approaches for pricing credit derivatives.
METRIZATION OF STOCHASTIC DOMINANCE RULES
Authors: STOYANOV STOYAN V. , RACHEV SVETLOZAR T. , FABOZZI FRANK J.
Published: April 2012

We consider a new approach towards stochastic dominance rules which allows measuring the degree of domination or violation of a given stochastic order and represents a way of describing stochastic orders in general. Examples are provided for the n-th order stochastic dominance and stochastic orders based on a popular risk measure. We demonstrate how the new approach can be used for construction of portfolios dominating a given benchmark prospect.
ENHANCED CONTROL OF EXCIMER LASER PULSE TIMING USING TUNABLE ADDITIVE NOISE
Authors: MINGESZ ROBERT , BARNA ANGELA , GINGL ZOLTAN , MELLAR JANOS
Published: April 2012

Recently we have shown a system developed to precisely control the laser pulse timing of excimer lasers [R. Mingesz, Z. Gingl, G. Almasi, A. Csengeri and P. Makra, Utilising jitter noise in the precise synchronisation of laser pulses, Fluct. Noise Lett. 8 (2008) L41–L49]. The electronic circuit based on an embedded microcontroller and utilized the natural jitter noise of the laser pulse generation to improve the long term regulation of the delay of the laser related to an external trigger pulse. Based on our results we have developed an improved system that uses additional, programmable time delay units to tune the noise source to further enhance performance and allows reduction of complexity in the same time. A mixed-signal microcontroller generates a randomly dithered delay of the pulse generation moment to enhance the resolution and also runs a dedicated algorithm to optimize regulation. The compact, flexible hardware supports further enhancements; the signal processing algorithm can be replaced even by in-system reprogramming. Optimized processing and the relaxed hardware requirements may also support low-power operation, wireless communication, therefore the application possibilities may be extended to many other disciplines.
Evolving insights regarding mechanisms for the inhibition of insulin release by norepinephrine and heterotrimeric G proteins
Authors: Straub Susanne G. , Sharp Geoffrey W. G.
Published: April 2012

Norepinephrine has for many years been known to have three major effects on the pancreatic β-cell which lead to the inhibition of insulin release. These are activation of K+ channels to hyperpolarize the cell and prevent the gating of voltage-dependent Ca2+ channels that increase intracellular Ca2+ concentration ([Ca2+]i) and trigger release; inhibition of adenylyl cyclases, thus preventing the augmentation of stimulated insulin release by cyclic AMP; and a “distal” effect that occurs downstream of increased [Ca2+]i to inhibit exocytosis. All three are mediated by the pertussis toxin (PTX)-sensitive heterotrimeric Gi and Go proteins. The distal inhibitory effect on exocytosis is now known to be due to the binding of G protein βγ subunits to the synaptosomal-associated protein of 25 kDa (SNAP-25) on the soluble NSF attachment protein receptor (SNARE) complex. Recent studies have uncovered two more actions of norepinephrine on the β-cell: 1) retardation of the refilling of the readily releasable granule pool after it has been discharged, an action that is mediated by Gαi1 and/or Gαi2; and 2) inhibition of endocytosis that is mediated by Gz. Of importance also are new findings that Gαo regulates the number of docked granules in the β-cell, and that Gαo2 maintains a tonic inhibitory influence on secretion. The latter provides another explanation as to why PTX, which blocks the effect of Gαo2, was initially called “islet activating protein.” Finally, there is clear evidence that overexpression of α2A-adrenergic receptors in β-cells can cause type 2 diabetes.
Monitoring urea transport in rat kidney in vivo using hyperpolarized13C magnetic resonance imaging
Authors: von Morze Cornelius , Bok Robert A. , Sands Jeff M. , Kurhanewicz John , Vigneron Daniel B.
Published: April 2012

Urea functions as a key osmolyte in the urinary concentrating mechanism of the inner medulla. The urea transporter UT-A1 is upregulated by antidiuretic hormone, facilitating faster equilibration of urea between the lumen and interstitium of the inner medullary collecting duct, resulting in the formation of more highly concentrated urine. New methods in dynamic nuclear polarization, providing ∼50,000-fold enhancement of nuclear magnetic resonance signals in the liquid state, offer a novel means to monitor this process in vivo using magnetic resonance imaging. In this study, we detected significant signal differences in the rat kidney between acute diuretic and antidiuretic states, using dynamic13C magnetic resonance imaging following a bolus infusion of hyperpolarized [13C]urea. More rapid medullary enhancement was observed under antidiuresis, consistent with known upregulation of UT-A1.
M2 muscarinic acetylcholine receptors regulate long-term potentiation at hippocampal CA3 pyramidal cell synapses in an input-specific fashion
Authors: Zheng Fang , Wess Jürgen , Alzheimer Christian
Published: April 2012

Muscarinic receptors have long been known as crucial players in hippocampus-dependent learning and memory, but our understanding of the cellular underpinnings and the receptor subtypes involved lags well behind. This holds in particular for the hippocampal CA3 region, where the mechanisms of synaptic plasticity depend on the type of afferent input. Williams and Johnston (Williams S, Johnston D. Science 242: 84–87, 1988; Williams S, Johnston D. J Neurophysiol 64: 1089–1097, 1990) demonstrated muscarinic depression of mossy fiber (MF) long-term potentiation (LTP) through a presynaptic site of action and Maeda et al. (Maeda T, Kaneko S, Satoh M. Brain Res 619: 324–330, 1993) proposed a bidirectional modulation of MF LTP by muscarinic receptor subtypes. Since then, this issue, as well as muscarinic regulation of plasticity at associational/commissural (A/C) fiber-CA3 synapses has remained largely neglected, not least because of the lack of highly selective ligands for the different muscarinic receptor subtypes. In the present study, we performed field potential and whole cell recordings from the hippocampal CA3 region of M2 receptor knockout mice to determine the role of M2 receptors in short-term and long-term plasticity at A/C and MF inputs to CA3 pyramidal cells. At the A/C synapse, M2 receptors promoted short-term facilitation and LTP. Unexpectedly, M2 receptors mediated the opposite effect on LTP at the MF synapse, which was significantly reduced, most likely involving a depressant effect of M2 receptors on adenylyl cyclase activity in MF terminals. Our data demonstrate that cholinergic projections recruit M2 receptors to redistribute the gain of LTP in CA3 pyramidal cells in an input-specific manner.
Applicability of independent component analysis on high-density microelectrode array recordings
Authors: Jäckel David , Frey Urs , Fiscella Michele , Franke Felix , Hierlemann Andreas
Published: April 2012

Emerging complementary metal oxide semiconductor (CMOS)-based, high-density microelectrode array (HD-MEA) devices provide high spatial resolution at subcellular level and a large number of readout channels. These devices allow for simultaneous recording of extracellular activity of a large number of neurons with every neuron being detected by multiple electrodes. To analyze the recorded signals, spiking events have to be assigned to individual neurons, a process referred to as “spike sorting.” For a set of observed signals, which constitute a linear mixture of a set of source signals, independent component (IC) analysis (ICA) can be used to demix blindly the data and extract the individual source signals. This technique offers great potential to alleviate the problem of spike sorting in HD-MEA recordings, as it represents an unsupervised method to separate the neuronal sources. The separated sources or ICs then constitute estimates of single-neuron signals, and threshold detection on the ICs yields the sorted spike times. However, it is unknown to what extent extracellular neuronal recordings meet the requirements of ICA. In this paper, we evaluate the applicability of ICA to spike sorting of HD-MEA recordings. The analysis of extracellular neuronal signals, recorded at high spatiotemporal resolution, reveals that the recorded data cannot be modeled as a purely linear mixture. As a consequence, ICA fails to separate completely the neuronal signals and cannot be used as a stand-alone method for spike sorting in HD-MEA recordings. We assessed the demixing performance of ICA using simulated data sets and found that the performance strongly depends on neuronal density and spike amplitude. Furthermore, we show how postprocessing techniques can be used to overcome the most severe limitations of ICA. In combination with these postprocessing techniques, ICA represents a viable method to facilitate rapid spike sorting of multidimensional neuronal recordings.
Pyroelectric Energy Harvesting: With Thermodynamic-Based Cycles
Authors: Mohammadi Saber , Khodayari Akram
Published: April 2012

This work deals with energy harvesting from temperature variations using ferroelectric materials as a microgenerator. The previous researches show that direct pyroelectric energy harvesting is not effective, whereas thermodynamic-based cycles give higher energy. Also, at different temperatures some thermodynamic cycles exhibit different behaviours. In this paper pyroelectric energy harvesting using Lenoir and Ericsson thermodynamic cycles has been studied numerically and the two cycles were compared with each other. The material used is the PMN-25 PT single crystal that is a very interesting material in the framework of energy harvesting and sensor applications.
Cerebral Vein Thrombosis Misdiagnosed and Mismanaged
Authors: Sasidharan P. K.
Published: April 2012

Cerebral venous thrombosis (CVT) should be considered in the differential diagnosis of all unexplained CNS disorders of sudden onset. Etiological factors are often subclinical forms of several common thrombophilic states occurring together, rather than the typical inherited and rare causes. Diagnosis is missed because of the heterogeneity in clinical presentation and etiological factors. In several patients with the so called idiopathic CVT nutritional deficiencies and lifestyle issues are more important factors in pathogenesis, rather than single rarer causes. High index of suspicion is the key to diagnosis. Clinical skill has to be fine tuned to diagnose the problem and to identify all the etiological factors. Radiology is essential for diagnosis but relying on radiology alone will lead to missing several cases and even erroneous diagnosis. It is inappropriate to proceed prematurely to laboratory investigations, forgetting proper clinical evaluation by studying diet, lifestyle, and environment of the patients. Success in managing lies in identifying all the contributory causes and correcting all of them giving excellent outcome almost always. Clinical observations based on case series and sharing of such information alone are the means to arrive at a consensus in diagnosis and management.
Online Coupling of Lab-on-Valve Format to Amperometry Based on Polyvinylpyrrolidone-Doped Carbon Paste Electrode and Its Application to the Analysis of Morin
Authors: Wang Yang , Yao Guojun , Tang Jie , Yang Chun , Xu Qin , Hu Xiaoya
Published: April 2012

The potential capabilities and analytical performance of lab-on-valve (LOV) manifold as a front end to amperometry have been explored for the on-line determination of morin. Meanwhile, the electrochemical behaviors of morin were investigated based on polyvinylpyrrolidone- (PVP-) doped carbon paste electrode (CPE), which found that PVP can significantly improve its oxidation peak current. The excellent amperometric current response was achieved when the potential difference (ΔE) of 0.6 V was implemented in pH 6.5 phosphate buffer solution (PBS) that served as the supporting electrolyte. A well-defined oxidation peak has been obtained in studies using PVP as a modifier of CPE based on the oxidation of morin. The present work introduces the LOV technique as a useful tool for amperometric measurement, documents advantages of using programmable flow, and outlines means for miniaturization of assays on the basis of PVP modified CPE. The proposed method was applied successfully to the determination of morin in real samples, and the spiked recoveries were satisfactory.
The Complete Mitochondrial Genome ofCtenoptilum vasava(Lepidoptera: Hesperiidae: Pyrginae) and Its Phylogenetic Implication
Authors: Hao Jiasheng , Sun Qianqian , Zhao Huabin , Sun Xiaoyan , Gai Yonghua , Yang Qun
Published: April 2012

We here report the first complete mitochondrial (mt) genome of a skipper,Ctenoptilum vasavaMoore, 1865 (Lepidoptera: Hesperiidae: Pyrginae). The mt genome of the skipper is a circular molecule of 15,468 bp, containing 2 ribosomal RNA genes, 24 putative transfer RNA (tRNA), genes including an extra copy of trnS (AGN) and a tRNA-like insertion trnL (UUR), 13 protein-coding genes and an AT-rich region. All protein-coding genes (PCGs) are initiated by ATN codons and terminated by the typical stop codon TAA or TAG, except for COII which ends with a single T. The intergenic spacer sequence between trnS (AGN) and ND1 genes also contains the ATACTAA motif. The AT-rich region of 429 bp is comprised of nonrepetitive sequences, including the motif ATAGA followed by an 19 bp poly-T stretch, a microsatellite-like (AT)3(TA)9element next to the ATTTA motif, an 11 bp poly-A adjacent to tRNAs. Phylogenetic analyses (ML and BI methods) showed that Papilionoidea is not a natural group, and Hesperioidea is placed within the Papilionoidea as a sister to ((Pieridae+Lycaenidae)+Nymphalidae) while Papilionoidae is paraphyletic to Hesperioidea. This result is remarkably different from the traditional view where Papilionoidea and Hesperioidea are considered as two distinct superfamilies.
Metastatic Patterns of Myxoid/Round Cell Liposarcoma: A Review of a 25-Year Experience
Authors: Asano Naofumi , Susa Michiro , Hosaka Seiichi , Nakayama Robert , Kobayashi Eisuke , Takeuchi Katsuhito , Horiuchi Keisuke , Suzuki Yoshihisa , Anazawa Ukei , Mukai Makio , Toyama Yoshiaki , Yabe Hiroo , Morioka Hideo
Published: April 2012

Myxoid/round cell liposarcoma (MRCL), unlike other soft tissue sarcomas, has been associated with unusual pattern of metastasis to extrapulmonary sites. In an attempt to elucidate the clinical features of MRCL with metastatic lesions, 58 cases, from the medical database of Keio University Hospital were used for the evaluation. 47 patients (81%) had no metastases, whereas 11 patients (11%) had metastases during their clinical course. Among the 11 patients with metastatic lesions, 8 patients (73%) had extrapulmonary metastases and 3 patients (27%) had pulmonary metastases. Patients were further divided into three groups; without metastasis, with extrapulmonary metastasis, and with pulmonary metastasis. When the metastatic patterns were stratified according to tumor size, there was statistical significance between the three groups (P=0.028). The 8 cases with extrapulmonary metastases were all larger than 10 cm. Similarly, histological grading had a significant impact on metastatic patterns (P=0.027). 3 cases with pulmonary metastatic lesions were all diagnosed as high grade. In conclusion, large size and low histological grade were significantly associated with extrapulmonary metastasis.
A Class of PDEs with Nonlinear Superposition Principles
Authors: Peng Li , Keying Liu , Zuliang Pan , Weizhou Zhong
Published: April 2012

Through assuming that nonlinear superposition principles (NLSPs) are embedded in a Lie group, a class of 3rd‐order PDEs is derived from a general determining equation that determine the invariant group. The corresponding NLSPs and transformation to linearize the nonlinear PDE are found, hence the governing PDE is proved C‐integrable. In the end, some applications of the PDEs are explained, which shows that the result has very subtle relations with linearization of partial differential equation.
Burning Characteristics of Ammonium-Nitrate-Based Composite Propellants with a Hydroxyl-Terminated Polybutadiene/Polytetrahydrofuran Blend Binder
Authors: Kohga Makoto , Naya Tomoki , Okamoto Kayoko
Published: April 2012

Ammonium-nitrate-(AN-) based composite propellants prepared with a hydroxyl-terminated polybutadiene (HTPB)/polytetrahydrofuran (PTHF) blend binder have unique thermal decomposition characteristics. In this study, the burning characteristics of AN/HTPB/PTHF propellants are investigated. The specific impulse and adiabatic flame temperature of an AN-based propellant theoretically increases with an increase in the proportion of PTHF in the HTPB/PTHF blend. With an AN/HTPB propellant, a solid residue is left on the burning surface of the propellant, and the shape of this residue is similar to that of the propellant. On the other hand, an AN/HTPB/PTHF propellant does not leave a solid residue. The burning rates of the AN/HTPB/PTHF propellant are not markedly different from those of the AN/HTPB propellant because some of the liquefied HTPB/PTHF binder cover the burning surface and impede decomposition and combustion. The burning rates of an AN/HTPB/PTHF propellant with a burning catalyst are higher than those of an AN/HTPB propellant supplemented with a catalyst. The beneficial effect of the blend binder on the burning characteristics is clarified upon the addition of a catalyst. The catalyst suppresses the negative influence of the liquefied binder that covers the burning surface. Thus, HTPB/PTHF blend binders are useful in improving the performance of AN-based propellants.
Unique Theory of Mind Differentiation in Children with Autism and Asperger Syndrome
Authors: Tine Michele , Lucariello Joan
Published: April 2012

This study was designed to determine if ToM abilities of children with autism and Asperger syndrome differentiate into Intrapersonal ToM and Social ToM. A battery of Social and Intrapersonal ToM tasks was administered to 39 children with autism and 34 children with Asperger syndrome. For both groups of children, ToM differentiated and Intrapersonal ToM was stronger than Social ToM. This asymmetry was greater for children with autism, whose Social ToM was especially weak. These results support a differentiated, as opposed to integrated, ToM. Moreover, the findings provide a more thorough understanding of the cognitive abilities associated with autism and Asperger syndrome.
Curcumin-Induced Apoptosis in Human Hepatocellular Carcinoma J5 Cells: Critical Role ofCa+2-Dependent Pathway
Authors: Wang Wei-Hsun , Chiang I-Tsang , Ding Kuke , Chung Jing-Gung , Lin Wuu-Jyh , Lin Song-Shei , Hwang Jeng-Jong
Published: April 2012

The antitumor effects of curcumin, a natural biologically active compound extracted from rhizomes of Curcuma longa, have been studied in many cancer cell types including human hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Here, we investigated the effects of Ca2+on curcumin-induced apoptosis in human HCC J5 cells. The abrogation of mitochondrial membrane potential (ΔΨm), the increase of reactive oxygen species (ROS) production, and calcium release were demonstrated with flow cytometry as early as 15 minutes after curcumin treatment. In addition, an increase level of cytochrome c in the cytoplasm which led to DNA fragmentation was observed. To verify the role of Ca2+in curcumin-induced apoptosis, 1,2-bis(o-aminophenoxy)ethane-N,N,N′,N′-tetraacetic acid (BAPTA), an intracellular calcium chelator, was applied. Cell viability was increased, but ΔΨm, ROS production, activation of caspase 3, and cell death were decreased in J5 cells pretreated with BAPTA for 2 h followed by the treatment of 25 μM curcumin. These results suggest that the curcumin-induced apoptosis in human HCC J5 cells is via mitochondria-dependent pathway and is closely related to the level of intracellular accumulation of calcium.
Dopamine Agonists and Pathologic Behaviors
Authors: Kelley Brendan J. , Duker Andrew P. , Chiu Peter
Published: April 2012

The dopamine agonists ropinirole and pramipexole exhibit highly specific affinity for the cerebral dopamine D3 receptor. Use of these medications in Parkinson’s disease has been complicated by the emergence of pathologic behavioral patterns such as hypersexuality, pathologic gambling, excessive hobbying, and other circumscribed obsessive-compulsive disorders of impulse control in people having no history of such disorders. These behavioral changes typically remit following discontinuation of the medication, further demonstrating a causal relationship. Expression of the D3 receptor is particularly rich within the limbic system, where it plays an important role in modulating the physiologic and emotional experience of novelty, reward, and risk assessment. Converging neuroanatomical, physiological, and behavioral science data suggest the high D3 affinity of these medications as the basis for these behavioral changes. These observations suggest the D3 receptor as a therapeutic target for obsessive-compulsive disorder and substance abuse, and improved understanding of D3 receptor function may aid drug design of future atypical antipsychotics.
Multiple Subject Barycentric Discriminant Analysis (MUSUBADA): How to Assign Scans to Categories without Using Spatial Normalization
Authors: Abdi Hervé , Williams Lynne J. , Connolly Andrew C. , Gobbini M. Ida , Dunlop Joseph P. , Haxby James V.
Published: April 2012

We present a new discriminant analysis (DA) method called Multiple Subject Barycentric Discriminant Analysis (MUSUBADA) suited for analyzing fMRI data because it handles datasets with multiple participants that each provides different number of variables (i.e., voxels) that are themselves grouped into regions of interest (ROIs). Like DA, MUSUBADA (1) assigns observations to predefined categories, (2) gives factorial maps displaying observations and categories, and (3) optimally assigns observations to categories. MUSUBADA handles cases with more variables than observations and can project portions of the data table (e.g., subtables, which can represent participants or ROIs) on the factorial maps. Therefore MUSUBADA can analyze datasets with different voxel numbers per participant and, so does not require spatial normalization. MUSUBADA statistical inferences are implemented with cross-validation techniques (e.g., jackknife and bootstrap), its performance is evaluated with confusion matrices (for fixed and random models) and represented with prediction, tolerance, and confidence intervals. We present an example where we predict the image categories (houses, shoes, chairs, and human, monkey, dog, faces,) of images watched by participants whose brains were scanned. This example corresponds to a DA question in which the data table is made of subtables (one per subject) and with more variables than observations.
Identification and Quantification of Protein Glycosylation
Authors: Roth Ziv , Yehezkel Galit , Khalaila Isam
Published: April 2012

Glycosylation is one of the most abundant posttranslation modifications of proteins, and accumulating evidence indicate that the vast majority of proteins in eukaryotes are glycosylated. Glycosylation plays a role in protein folding, interaction, stability, and mobility, as well as in signal transduction. Thus, by regulating protein activity, glycosylation is involved in the normal functioning of the cell and in the development of diseases. Indeed, in the past few decades there has been a growing realization of the importance of protein glycosylation, as aberrant glycosylation has been implicated in metabolic, neurodegenerative, and neoplastic diseases. Thus, the identification and quantification of protein-borne oligosaccharides have become increasingly important both in the basic sciences of biochemistry and glycobiology and in the applicative sciences, particularly biomedicine and biotechnology. Here, we review the state-of-the-art methodologies for the identification and quantification of oligosaccharides, specificallyN- andO-glycosylated proteins.
Fabrication and Photovoltaic Characteristics of Coaxial Silicon Nanowire Solar Cells Prepared by Wet Chemical Etching
Authors: Liu Chien-Wei , Cheng Chin-Lung , Dai Bau-Tong , Yang Chi-Han , Wang Jun-Yuan
Published: April 2012

Nanostructured solar cells with coaxial p-n junction structures have strong potential to enhance the performances of the silicon-based solar cells. This study demonstrates a radial junction silicon nanowire (RJSNW) solar cell that was fabricated simply and at low cost using wet chemical etching. Experimental results reveal that the reflectance of the silicon nanowires (SNWs) declines as their length increases. The excellent light trapping was mainly associated with high aspect ratio of the SNW arrays. A conversion efficiency of ∼7.1% and an external quantum efficiency of ∼64.6% at 700 nm were demonstrated. Control of etching time and diffusion conditions holds great promise for the development of future RJSNW solar cells. Improving the electrode/RJSNW contact will promote the collection of carries in coaxial core-shell SNW array solar cells.
Mechanisms of Gastroprotective Effects of Ethanolic Leaf Extract ofJasminum sambacagainst HCl/Ethanol-Induced Gastric Mucosal Injury in Rats
Authors: AlRashdi Ahmed S. , Salama Suzy M. , Alkiyumi Salim S. , Abdulla Mahmood A. , Hadi A. Hamid A. , Abdelwahab Siddig I. , Taha Manal M. , Hussiani Jamal , Asykin Nur
Published: April 2012

Jasminum sambacis used in folk medicine as the treatment of many diseases. The aim of the present investigation is to evaluate the gastroprotective effects of ethanolic extracts ofJ. sambacleaves against acidified ethanol-induced gastric ulcers in rats. Seven groups of rats were orally pre-treated with carboxymethylcellulose (CMC) as normal group, CMC as ulcer group, 20 mg/kg of omeprazole as positive group, 62.5, 125, 250, and 500 mg/kg of extract as the experimental groups, respectively. An hour later, CMC was given orally to normal group and acidified ethanol solution was given orally to the ulcer control, positive control, and the experimental groups. The rats were sacrificed after an hour later. Acidity of gastric content, the gastric wall mucus, ulcer areas, and histology and immunohistochemistry of the gastric wall were assessed. Gastric homogenates were determined for prostaglandin E2(PGE2), superoxide dismutase (SOD), andmalondialdehyde (MDA) content. Ulcer group exhibited significantly severe mucosal injury as compared with omeprazole or extract which shows significant protection towards gastric mucosal injury the plant promotes ulcer protection as it shows significant reduction of ulcer area grossly, and histology showed marked reduction of edema and leucocytes infiltration of submucosal layer compared with ulcer group. Immunohistochemistry showed overexpression of Hsp70 protein and downexpression of Bax protein in rats pretreated with extract. Significant increased in the pH, mucus of gastric content and high levels of PGE2, SOD and reduced amount of MDA was observed.
Pioglitazone Attenuates Vascular Fibrosis in Spontaneously Hypertensive Rats
Authors: Gao Dengfeng , Ning Ning , Hao Guanghua , Niu Xiaolin
Published: April 2012

Objective. We sought to investigate whether the peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-γ (PPAR-γ) ligand pioglitazone can attenuate vascular fibrosis in spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHRs) and explore the possible molecular mechanisms.Methods. SHRs (8-week-old males) were randomly divided into 3 groups (n=8each) for treatment: pioglitazone (10 mg/kg/day), hydralazine (25 mg/kg/day), or saline. Normal male Wistar Kyoto (WKY) rats (n=8) served as normal controls. Twelve weeks later, we evaluated the effect of pioglitazone on vascular fibrosis by Masson’s trichrome and immunohistochemical staining of collagen III and real-time RT-PCR analysis of collagen I, III and fibronectin mRNA.Vascular expression of PPAR-γ and connective tissue growth factor (CTGF) and transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β) expression were evaluated by immunohistochemical staining, western blot analysis, and real-time RT-PCR.Results. Pioglitazone and hydralazine treatment significantly decreased systolic blood pressure in SHRs. Masson’s trichrome staining for collagen III and real-time RT-PCR analysis of collagen I, III and fibronectin mRNA indicated that pioglitazone significantly inhibited extracellular matrix production in the aorta. Compared with Wistar Kyoto rats, SHRs showed significantly increased vascular CTGF expression. Pioglitazone treatment significantly increased PPAR-γ expression and inhibited CTGF expression but had no effect on TGF-β expression.Conclusions. The results indicate that pioglitazone attenuated vascular fibrosis in SHRs by inhibiting CTGF expression in a TGF-β-independent mechanism.
Acute Ethanol Gavage Attenuates Hemorrhage/Resuscitation-Induced Hepatic Oxidative Stress in Rats
Authors: Relja B. , Wilhelm K. , Wang M. , Henrich D. , Marzi I. , Lehnert M.
Published: April 2012

Acute ethanol intoxication increases the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS). Hemorrhagic shock with subsequent resuscitation (H/R) also induces ROS resulting in cellular and hepatic damagein vivo. We examined the role of acute ethanol intoxication upon oxidative stress and subsequent hepatic cell death after H/R. 14 h before H/R, rats were gavaged with single dose of ethanol or saline (5 g/kg, EtOH and ctrl; H/R_EtOH or H/R_ctrl, resp.). Then, rats were hemorrhaged to a mean arterial blood pressure of30±2 mmHg for 60 min and resuscitated. Two control groups underwent surgical procedures without H/R (sham_ctrl and sham_EtOH, resp.). Liver tissues were harvested at 2, 24, and 72 h after resuscitation. EtOH-gavage induced histological picture of acute fatty liver. Hepatic oxidative (4-hydroxynonenal, 4-HNE) and nitrosative (3-nitrotyrosine, 3-NT) stress were significantly reduced in EtOH-gavaged rats compared to controls after H/R. Proapoptotic caspase-8 and Bax expressions were markedly diminished in EtOH-gavaged animals compared with controls 2 h after resuscitation. EtOH-gavage increased antiapoptotic Bcl-2 gene expression compared with controls 2 h after resuscitation. iNOS protein expression increased following H/R but was attenuated in EtOH-gavaged animals after H/R. Taken together, the data suggest that acute EtOH-gavage may attenuate H/R-induced oxidative stress thereby reducing cellular injury in rat liver.
Potential Vorticity Attribution and Causality
Authors: Spengler Thomas , Egger Joseph
Published: April 2012

The electrostatic analogy provides a well-known paradigm for the concept of potential vorticity (PV) attribution. Just as electric fields can be attributed to electric charges, so are localized PV anomalies thought to induce far fields of flow and temperature, at least after geostrophic adjustment. Piecewise PV inversion (PPVI) exploits this concept. Idealized examples of PPVI are discussed by selecting isolated anomalies that are inverted to yield the far field “caused” by the PV anomaly. The causality of attribution is tested in this study by seeking an unbalanced initial state containing the same PV anomaly but without a far field from which the balanced state can be attained by geostrophic adjustment. It is shown that the far field of a balanced axisymmetric PV anomaly in shallow water, without mean PV gradients, may evolve from a localized anomaly without a far field. For the more general example of the electrostatics analogy, namely a three-dimensional spherical PV anomaly, the initial state has to be nonhydrostatic and needs to exhibit a mass deficit. As this mass deficit cannot be removed during hydrostatic and geostrophic adjustment, it follows that PV attribution does not imply a causal relationship between the far field of a PV anomaly and the anomaly itself.
Bidimensional Diagnostics, Variability, and Trends of Northern Hemisphere Blocking
Authors: Davini Paolo , Cagnazzo Chiara , Gualdi Silvio , Navarra Antonio
Published: April 2012

In this paper, Northern Hemisphere winter blocking is analyzed through the introduction of a set of new bidimensional diagnostics based on geopotential height that provide information about the occurrence, the duration, the intensity, and the wave breaking associated with the blocking. This analysis is performed with different reanalysis datasets in order to evaluate the sensitivity of the index and the diagnostics adopted. In this way, the authors are able to define a new category of blocking placed at low latitudes that is similar to midlatitude blocking in terms of the introduced diagnostics but is unable to divert or block the flow. Furthermore, over the Euro-Atlantic sector it is shown that it is possible to phenomenologically distinguish between high-latitude blocking occurring over Greenland, north of the jet stream and dominated by cyclonic wave breaking, and the traditional midlatitude blocking localized over Europe and driven by anticyclonic wave breaking. These latter events are uniformly present in a band ranging from the Azores up to Scandinavia. Interestingly, a similar distinction cannot be pointed out over the Pacific basin where the blocking activity is dominated by high-latitude blocking occurring over eastern Siberia. Finally, considering the large impact that blocking may have on the Northern Hemisphere, an analysis of the variability and the trend is carried out. This shows a significant increase of Atlantic low-latitude blocking frequency and an eastward displacement of the strongest blocking events over both the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans.
Empirical Correction of XBT Data
Authors: Hamon M. , Reverdin G. , Le Traon P.-Y.
Published: April 2012

The authors use a collocation method between XBT and CTD/Ocean Station Data (OSD; including bottle cast and low-resolution CTD) from World Ocean Database 2005 (WOD2005) to statistically correct the XBT fall rate. An analysis of the annual median bias on depth shows that it is necessary to apply a thermal correction, a second-order correction on the depth, as well as a depth offset representing measurement errors during XBT deployment. Data were separated into several categories: shallow and deep XBTs and below or above 10°C of vertically averaged ocean temperatures (in the top 400 m). Also, XBT measurements in the western Pacific between 1968 and 1985 were processed separately because of large regional biases. The estimated corrections deviate from other published estimates with some large variations in time of both linear and curvature terms in the depth corrections, and less time variation of the temperature correction for the deep XBTs. This analysis of heat content derived from corrected XBTs provides at first order a similar variability to other estimates from corrected XBTs and mechanical bathythermographs (MBTs). It shows a fairly prominent trend in 0–700-m ocean heat content of 0.39 × 1022 J yr−1 between 1970 and 2008.
School Context and the Gender Gap in Educational Achievement
Authors: Legewie Joscha , DiPrete Thomas A.
Published: April 2012

Today, boys generally underperform relative to girls in schools throughout the industrialized world. Building on theories about gender identity and reports from prior ethnographic classroom observations, we argue that school environment channels conceptions of masculinity in peer culture, fostering or inhibiting boys’ development of anti-school attitudes and behavior. Girls’ peer groups, by contrast, vary less strongly with the social environment in the extent to which school engagement is stigmatized as un-feminine. As a consequence, boys are more sensitive than girls to school resources that create a learning-oriented environment. To evaluate this argument, we use a quasi-experimental research design and estimate the gender difference in the causal effect of peer socioeconomic status (SES) as an important school resource on test scores. Our design is based on the assumption that assignment to 5th-grade classrooms within Berlin’s schools is as good as random, and we evaluate this selection process with an examination of Berlin’s school regulations, a simulation analysis, and qualitative interviews with school principals. Estimates of the effect of SES composition on male and female performance strongly support our central hypothesis, and other analyses support our proposed mechanism as the likely explanation for gender differences in the causal effect.
Good morning, good day: A diary study on positive emotions, hope, and work engagement
Authors: Ouweneel Else , Le Blanc Pascale M , Schaufeli Wilmar B , van Wijhe Corine I
Published: April 2012

The objective of this diary study was to look at the potential positive within-person relationships between positive emotions, work-related hope, and the three dimensions of work engagement on a daily level (i.e. vigor, dedication, and absorption). Following Broaden-and-Build theory and Affective Events Theory, it was expected that the experience of positive emotions would cause hope, which in turn would lead to a state of vigor, dedication, and absorption. The study was conducted among 59 employees of a Dutch university, who filled in a diary questionnaire for five consecutive working days, twice a day. As expected, the experience of positive emotions had an indirect effect on the level of vigor, dedication, and absorption through hope across days. So, it seems that an individual and daily perspective on work engagement is particularly worthwhile and provides valuable insights to enhance employee engagement in practice.
Anti-biofilm Dentin Primer with Quaternary Ammonium and Silver Nanoparticles
Authors: Cheng L. , Zhang K. , Melo M.A.S. , Weir M.D. , Zhou X. , Xu H.H.K.
Published: April 2012

Antibacterial bonding agents could combat recurrent caries at the tooth-composite margins. The objectives of this study were to develop novel antibacterial dentin primers containing quaternary ammonium dimethacrylate (QADM) and nanoparticles of silver (NAg), and to investigate the effects on dentin bond strength and dental plaque microcosm biofilms for the first time. Scotchbond Multi-Purpose (“SBMP”) bonding agent was used. QADM and NAg were incorporated into SBMP primer, yielding 4 primers: SBMP primer (control), control + 10% QADM (mass), control + 0.05% NAg, and control + 10% QADM + 0.05% NAg. Human saliva was collected to grow microcosm biofilms. The NAg particle size (mean ± SD; n = 100) was 2.7 ± 0.6 nm. Dentin shear bond strengths (n = 10) with human third molars were approximately 30 MPa for all groups (p > 0.1). QADM-NAg-containing primer increased the bacteria inhibition zone by 9-fold, compared with control primer (p < 0.05). QADM-NAg-containing primer reduced lactic acid production and colony-forming units of total micro-organisms, total streptococci, and mutans streptococci by an order of magnitude. In conclusion, novel QADM-NAg-containing primers were strongly antibacterial without compromising dentin bond strength, and hence are promising to inhibit biofilms and secondary caries. The processing method of incorporating QADM and NAg together into the same primer produced the strongest antibacterial effect, which could have a wide applicability to other bonding systems.
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Orthodontic Pain Control
Authors: Wang J. , Jian F. , Chen J. , Ye N.S. , Huang Y.H. , Wang S. , Huang R.H. , Pei J. , Liu P. , Zhang L. , Zhao Z.H. , Chen Q.M. , Lai W.L. , Lin Y.F.
Published: April 2012

The objective of this study was to evaluate the efficacy of cognitive behavioral therapy intervention for patients who experienced pain during orthodontic treatment. The baseline characteristics were assessed via questionnaires and oral examinations. Four hundred and fifty eligible individuals were recruited and randomized by computer-generated block randomization into three groups: cognitive behavioral therapy intervention (n = 150), ibuprofen intervention (n = 150), and no intervention (control; n = 150). Primary outcomes were the change from baseline in pain intensity measured with 100-mm Visual Analog Scale (VAS) scores at 1, 2, 3, 7, 14, and 30 days after initial archwire placement. Outcomes assessment was blinded and followed the intention-to-treat principle. One hundred forty-three (95.30%), 145 (96.70%), and 141 (94.00%) individuals in the cognitive behavioral therapy, the ibuprofen, and the control groups, respectively, completed the one-month follow-up evaluations. Those in the cognitive behavioral therapy group showed a greater decrease in mean VAS scores than did those in the control group over the previous five time-points (p < 0.001). Cognitive behavioral therapy was shown to be effective in pain control during the initial stage of orthodontic treatment. The study registration number was ChiCTR-TRC-00000556.