bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Analysis of a Hydrodynamic Thrust Bearing With Incomplete Film
Authors: Etsion I. , Barkon I.
Published: May 2012

The possibility of an incomplete lubricating film due to directed lubrication in hydrodynamic thrust bearings is considered. The free boundaries of the wetted area on a flat sector-shaped pad are determined by a simultaneous iterative solution of the Reynolds equation and a flow equation. Bearing load carrying capacity and power loss are calculated for a variety of inlet geometries, and a comparison is made with a complete fluid film bearing. It is found that bearing performance can be very much affected by the radial location of lubricant supply to the pads.
Dynamic Characteristics of a High-Speed Rotor With Radial and Axial Foil-Bearing Supports
Authors: Licht L. , Anderson W. J. , Doroff S. W.
Published: May 2012

An asymmetric rotor (19N; 4.3 lb), supported radially and axially by compliant bearings (foil bearings), is subjected to severe excitation by rotating unbalance (43 μm.N; 6100 μin.oz) in the “pitching” mode, at speeds to 50,000 rpm. The resilient, air-lubricated bearings provide very effective damping, so that regions of resonance and instability can be traversed with impunity, with amplitudes and limit-trajectories remaining within acceptable bounds. A novel journal bearing is introduced, in which a resilient support is furnished by the outer turn of the coiled foil-element, initially bent to form an open polygon. The experimental apparatus and procedure are described, and the response of the rotor and flexible support system are copiously documented by oscilloscope records of motion.
On The Steady State and Dynamic Performance Characteristics of Floating Ring Bearings
Authors: Li Chin-Hsiu , Rohde S. M.
Published: May 2012

An analysis of the steady state and dynamic characteristics of floating ring journal bearings has been performed. The stability characteristics of the bearing, based on linear theory, are given. The transient problem, in which the equations of motion for the bearing system are integrated in real time was studied. The effect of using finite bearing theory rather than the short bearing assumption was examined. Among the significant findings of this study is the existence of limit cycles in the regions of instability predicted by linear theory. Such results explain the superior stability characteristics of the floating ring bearing in high speed applications. An understanding of this nonlinear behavior, serves as the basis for new and rational criteria for the design of floating ring bearings.
Design of Efficient Turbulent Thrust Bearings III. Self-Pressurized Design
Authors: Wilcock D. F.
Published: May 2012

Turbulence makes high speed conventionally designed bearings operate with higher power loss, higher temperature rise, and lower oil flow than would be predicted from conventional laminar analysis. The objective of this paper is to present a new concept for increasing the load/power efficiency of large thrust bearings by a hybrid design employing hydrostatic load support combined with hydrodynamic pads. Self-pressurization using a shaft-center feed to radial ducts in the runner provides reliability fully equal to conventional bearing-fed designs.
An Analytical Solution for the Normal Load Carrying Capacity of Lightly Loaded Cylinders in Combined Rolling, Sliding and Normal Motion
Authors: Conry T. F.
Published: May 2012

The analytical solution for the normal load carrying capacity of lightly loaded cylinders in combined rolling, sliding and normal motion is obtained. It is shown that the load capacity is inversely proportional to the dimensionless minimum film thickness. The results are presented graphically and approximated in the form of an exponential function.
A Novel and Accurate Ritz Formulation for Free Vibration of Rectangular and Skew Plates
Authors: Eftekhari S. A. , Jafari A. A.
Published: May 2012

One of the major limitations of the conventional Ritz method is its difficulty in implementation to the differential equations with natural boundary conditions at the boundary points/lines. Plates involving free edges/corners and irregularly shaped plates are two historical and classical examples which show that their solutions cannot be accurately approximated by the conventional Ritz method. To solve this difficulty, a simple, novel, and accurate Ritz formulation is introduced in this paper. It is revealed that the proposed methodology can produce much better accuracy than the conventional Ritz method for rectangular plates involving free edges/corners and skew plates.
Experimental Investigation of the Effects of Bolt Preload on the Dynamic Response of a Bolted Interface
Authors: Butner Charles Matthew , Adams Douglas E. , Foley Jason R.
Published: May 2012

Often in the study of bodies that undergo shock loading, it is desirable to measure the response of such structures with an instrumentation package. This instrumentation can be separated from the external housing by several preloaded interfaces. To better understand the effects of preload on the nonlinear dynamics introduced into the measurement, a simple preloaded interface test fixture was fabricated. Both low amplitude modal impact tests and high amplitude shock loading tests were used to analyze the effects of varying preload between the bodies on the linear and nonlinear dynamics observed in the response of the coupled bodies. The results of these measurements indicated that increases in preload reduced nonlinearity, but could amplify force transmission. Based on these results, a three degree of freedom system model was created to represent the dominant linear modes of response and the qualitative nonlinear characteristics that were observed in the high amplitude shock loading experiments.
Three Strikes and You’re Cured
Authors: Chong Anita S. , Bell Graeme I.
Published: May 2012

Glucose tolerance can be restored in a mouse model of type 1 diabetes be abrogating autoimmunity and then exploiting the ability of pancreatic β cells to regenerate.
Stressing Out the Endoplasmic Reticulum
Authors: Tanhehco Yvette
Published: May 2012

Inhibiting the unfolded protein response helps kill multiple myeloma cells.
Insensitivity of Chromosome I and the Cell Cycle to Blockage of Replication and Segregation of Vibrio cholerae Chromosome II
Authors: Kadoya Ryosuke , Chattoraj Dhruba K.
Published: May 2012

Vibrio cholerae
has two chromosomes (chrI and chrII) whose replication and segregation are under different genetic controls. The region covering the replication origin of chrI resembles that of the
Escherichia coli
chromosome, and both origins are under control of the highly conserved initiator, DnaA. The origin region of chrII resembles that of plasmids that have iterated initiator-binding sites (iterons) and is under control of the chrII-specific initiator, RctB. Both chrI and chrII encode chromosome-specific orthologs of plasmid partitioning proteins, ParA and ParB. Here, we have interfered with chrII replication, segregation, or both, using extra copies of sites that titrate RctB or ParB. Under these conditions, replication and segregation of chrI remain unaffected for at least 1 cell cycle. In this respect, chrI behaves similarly to the
E. coli
chromosome when plasmid maintenance is disturbed in the same cell. Apparently, no checkpoint exists to block cell division before the crippled chromosome is lost by a failure to replicate or to segregate. Whether blocking chrI replication can affect chrII replication remains to be tested.

IMPORTANCE
Chromosome replication, chromosome segregation, and cell division are the three main events of the cell cycle. They occur in an orderly fashion once per cell cycle. How the sequence of events is controlled is only beginning to be answered in bacteria. The finding of bacteria that possess more than one chromosome raises the important question: how are different chromosomes coordinated in their replication and segregation? It appears that in the evolution of the two-chromosome genome of
V. cholerae
, either the secondary chromosome adapted to the main chromosome to ensure its maintenance or it is maintained independently, as are bacterial plasmids. An understanding of chromosome coordination is expected to bear on the evolutionary process of chromosome acquisition and on the efficacy of possible strategies for selective elimination of a pathogen by targeting a specific chromosome.
HER2/neutesting for anti-HER2-based therapies in patients with unresectable and/or metastatic gastric cancer
Authors: Gómez-Martin Carlos , Garralda Elena , Echarri M José , Ballesteros Anabel , Arcediano Alberto , Rodríguez-Peralto José Luis , Hidalgo Manuel , López-Ríos Fernando
Published: May 2012

Aim

To study the HER2 gene amplification or overexpression in patients with advanced gastric cancer (GC) and their association with patient characteristics and patient survival.

Patients and methods

Tumour tissue samples from 148 patients with advanced GC were studied for HER2 by immunohistochemistry (IHC), fluorescence in situ hybridisation (FISH) and dual colour silver enhanced in situ hybridisation (dc-SISH) methods. Clinicopathological data from all patients were collected. Progression free survival and overall survival were also analysed.

Results

Mean age was 67 (33–83) years; 75% were male subjects, and 51% had intestinal histological type. HER2+ rates were 10.1% (15/148) by IHC, 18.2% (27/148) by FISH+ or 21.6% (32/148) by dc-SISH+. There were significant differences in HER2+ rates according to histological type when FISH (intestinal, 23%; no intestinal, 4%; p<0.0001) or dc-SISH (intestinal, 26%; no intestinal, 6%; p<0.0001) amplification techniques were used. Median overall survival was significantly longer in HER2+ patients despite the determination technique used: IHC (21.4 vs 9.8 months, HR 0.42; p=0.005); FISH (19.6 vs 9.7 months, HR 0.49; p=0.007) or dc-SISH (19.6 vs 9.7 months, HR 0.53; p=0.009). Factors associated with favourable survival in the multivariate analysis were intestinal type and Her2+ determination by IHC, FISH or dc-SISH.

Conclusion

HER2 gene amplification is significantly associated with patient survival. HER2 gene amplification approaches might be an optimal HER2/neutesting strategy for the selection of HER2+ GC patients who are candidates to be treated with anti-HER2 therapies.
Rsf-1 expression in rectal cancer: with special emphasis on the independent prognostic value after neoadjuvant chemoradiation
Authors: Lin Ching-Yih , Tian Yu-Feng , Wu Li-Ching , Chen Li-Tzong , Lin Li-Ching , Hsing Chung-Hsi , Lee Sung-Wei , Sheu Ming-Jen , Lee Hao-Hsien , Wang Yu-Hui , Shiue Yow-Ling , Wu Wen-Ren , Huang Hsuan-Ying , Hsu Han-Ping , Li Chien-Feng , Chen Shang-Hung
Published: May 2012

Aims

Neoadjuvant chemoradiation therapy (CRT) is an increasingly used therapeutic strategy for rectal cancer. Clinically, it remains a major challenge to predict therapeutic response and patient outcome after CRT. Rsf-1 (HBXAP), a novel nuclear protein with histone chaperon function, mediates ATPase-dependent chromatin remodelling and confers tumour aggressiveness and predicts therapeutic response in certain carcinomas. However, the expression of Rsf-1 has never been reported in rectal cancer. This study examined the predictive and prognostic impacts of Rsf-1 expression in patients with rectal cancer following neoadjuvant CRT.

Methods

Rsf-1 immunoexpression was retrospectively assessed for pre-treatment biopsies of 172 rectal cancer patients without initial distant metastasis. All of them were treated with neoadjuvant CRT followed by surgery. The results were correlated with the clinicopathological features, therapeutic response, tumour regression grade and metastasis-free survival (MeFS), local recurrent-free survival and disease-specific survival.

Results

Present in 82 cases (47.7%), high-expression of Rsf-1 was associated with advanced pre-treatment tumour status (T3, T4, p=0.020), advanced post-treatment tumour status (T3, T4, p<0.001) and inferior tumour regression grade (p=0.028). Of note, high-expression of Rsf-1 emerged as an adverse prognosticator for diseases-specific survival (p=0.0092) and significantly predicted worse MeFS (p=0.0006). Moreover, high-expression of Rsf-1 also remained prognostic independent for worse MeFS (HR 2.834; p=0.0214).

Conclusions

High-expression of Rsf-1 is associated with poor therapeutic response and adverse outcome in rectal cancer patients treated with neoadjuvant CRT, which confers tumour aggressiveness and therapeutic resistance through chromatin remodelling and represents a potential prognostic biomarker in rectal cancer.
Translating research for evidence-based public health: key concepts and future directions
Authors: Rychetnik Lucie , Bauman Adrian , Laws Rachel , King Lesley , Rissel Chris , Nutbeam Don , Colagiuri Stephen , Caterson Ian
Published: May 2012

Applying research to guide evidence-based practice is an ongoing and significant challenge for public health. Developments in the emerging field of ‘translation’ have focused on different aspects of the problem, resulting in competing frameworks and terminology. In this paper the scope of ‘translation’ in public health is defined, and four related but conceptually different ‘translation processes’ that support evidence-based practice are outlined: (1) reviewing the transferability of evidence to new settings, (2) translation research, (3) knowledge translation, and (4) knowledge translation research. Finally, an integrated framework is presented to illustrate the relationship between these domains, and priority areas for further development and empirical research are identified.
Gender differences in the relationship between religiosity and health-related behaviour among adolescents
Authors: Pitel Lukas , Madarasova Geckova Andrea , Kolarcik Peter , Halama Peter , Reijneveld Sijmen A , van Dijk Jitse P
Published: May 2012

Background

An inverse relationship between religiosity and adolescent health-related behaviour has been repeatedly documented, but evidence regarding gender is scarce. The aim of this study was to assess the association between a wide range of adolescent health-related behaviours and religiosity as well as gender differences in these associations.

Methods

Data were collected in 2010 in Slovakia on 3674 adolescents, with mean age of 14.9 years (response: 79.5%). ORs for levels of religiosity, measured by religious attendance and religious salience, were calculated for 15 behaviours, such as the use of various substances, nutritional behaviour and violent behaviour. The authors then assessed the interactions of religiosity and gender on these behaviours.

Results

Religiosity was inversely associated with health–risk behaviour in smoking, drunkenness, cannabis use, having breakfast, soft drinks consumption, screen-based activities and sexual intercourse among both genders and in truancy among girls only. This association was significantly stronger among girls than among boys in smoking, drunkenness and cannabis use. Religiosity was unrelated to the consumption of fruits, vegetables and sweets, physical inactivity, tooth brushing, fighting and bullying others in both genders.

Conclusions

An inverse relationship between religiosity and health–risk behaviour was found in several behaviours (especially use of substances) but not in other behaviours (violent behaviours in particular). Gender seems to moderate this relationship in smoking, drunkenness and cannabis use. Further research is needed on the mechanisms leading to an association between religiosity and health behaviour and on the strength of this association in other countries and cultures.
ON- AND OFF-DIAGONAL STURMIAN OPERATORS: DYNAMIC AND SPECTRAL DIMENSION
Authors: MARIN LAURENT
Published: May 2012

We study two versions of quasicrystal model, both subcases of Jacobi matrices. For the off-diagonal model, we show an upper bound of dynamical exponent and the norm of the transfer matrix. We apply this result to the off-diagonal Fibonacci Hamiltonian and obtain a sub-ballistic bound for coupling large enough. In the diagonal case, we improve previous lower bounds on the fractal box-counting dimension of the spectrum.
MAPPING CLASS GROUP AND U(1) CHERN–SIMONS THEORY ON CLOSED ORIENTABLE SURFACES
Authors: CHEN SI
Published: May 2012

U(1) Chern–Simons theory is quantized canonically on manifolds of the form [Formula: see text], where Σ is a closed orientable surface. In particular, we investigate the role of mapping class group of Σ in the process of quantization. We show that, by requiring the quantum states to form representation of the holonomy group and the large gauge transformation group, both of which are deformed by quantum effect, the mapping class group can be consistently represented, provided the Chern–Simons parameter k satisfies an interesting quantization condition. The representations of all the discrete groups are unique, up to an arbitrary sub-representation of the mapping class group. Also, we find a k↔1/k duality of the representations.
POSITIVE PERMUTATION BRAIDS AND PERMUTATION INVERSIONS WITH SOME APPLICATIONS
Authors: ELRIFAI E. A. , ANIS M.
Published: May 2012

In this paper we constructed an isomorphic group of binary matrices to a finite symmetric group. Our method is based on the inversion of permutations. Using this embedding we find an algorithm for writing down a standard braid word representation for each positive permutation braid. Also an algorithm for writing basis of Hecke algebra Hn+1from such basis of Hnis given.
URBAN LANDSCAPES IN TRANSITION, LESSONS FROM INTEGRATING BIODIVERSITY AND HABITAT MODELLING IN PLANNING
Authors: MÖRTBERG ULLA , ZETTERBERG ANDREAS , BALFORS BERIT
Published: May 2012

Sustainable urban development has been widely recognized as requiring energy and transport efficient urban growth, while ecological issues are often not well integrated in sustainability assessments and Strategic Environmental Assessment (SEA). In order to achieve such integration, methods and tools based on Geographic Information Systems (GIS) in a Landscape Ecological Assessment (LEA) framework were developed and integrated in planning in four case studies in and around the city of Stockholm, Sweden. This involved the application of recently developed methods for impact prediction and for integration into the planning processes. The aim of the study was to compare the case studies concerning strengths and weaknesses of LEA and its GIS-based components. The methodology enabled identification of important structures in the landscape to support biodiversity, across administrative borders. The LEA facilitated discussions on consequences of alternatives for localisation of built-up areas, infrastructure and other developments as well as management. The GIS-based LEA approach could thus contribute to a sustainable urban development with consideration of the landscape-level biodiversity values integrated with energy-efficient urban growth trajectories.
ASSESSING LAND SUITABILITY FOR RESIDENTIAL DEVELOPMENT IN PERMAFROST REGIONS: A MULTI-CRITERIA APPROACH TO LAND-USE PLANNING IN NORTHERN QUEBEC, CANADA
Authors: GRANDMONT KATERINE , CARDILLE JEFFREY A. , FORTIER DANIEL , GIBÉRYEN TANIA
Published: May 2012

Northern Quebec (Nunavik) presents an important intersection between population growth and climate change. The Inuit population of Nunavik has the fastest growth rate in any region of Canada. Land-use planning is an urgent and pressing need for northern communities built on permafrost, where there are considerable risks to development in areas where permafrost may thaw. As northern communities work to adapt to climate changes, they will be in great need of confident recommendations about locations of future development projects. This paper presents a case-study of the community of Tasiujaq and assesses the probability of thaw settlement of the surface, a process seriously affecting infrastructure stability. A method is developed for quantifying uncertainty in the resulting map, expressed as a function of judgmentbased uncertainty in the various factors that can influence eventual map quality. The best estimate of vulnerability and of the confidence in that estimate can be expressed in a single, simple map that allows an analyst to convey both of these vital aspects of the assessment process.
A SURVEY OF THE USE OF GEOGRAPHIC INFORMATION SYSTEMS IN ENGLISH LOCAL AUTHORITY IMPACT ASSESSMENTS
Authors: RIDDLESDEN D. , SINGLETON A. D. , FISCHER T. B.
Published: May 2012

Across the public sector, Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and spatial analysis are increasingly ubiquitous when making decisions involving people and places. However, historically GIS has not been prevalently applied to the various types of impact assessment. As such, this paper presents findings from a survey conducted in 2011 of 100 local authorities in England to examine how embedded GIS, spatial analysis and visualisation practices are to the process of conducting impact assessments. The results show that despite obvious advantages of applying GIS in these processes, applications employing basic techniques are at best sporadic, and where advanced methods are implemented, these in almost all instances are conducted by external contractors, thus illustrating a significant GIS under capacity within the sampled local authorities studied.
GIS IN ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT: A REVIEW OF CURRENT ISSUES AND FUTURE NEEDS
Authors: CAMPO AINHOA GONZÁLEZ DEL
Published: May 2012

The generation and use of spatial information has significantly increased in recent years. Its importance has been magnified by the INSPIRE Directive, which has subsequently led to specific requirements within several legislative frameworks, such as the Water Framework and Noise Directives, for generating spatial data and spatially-specific outputs, as well as encouraging the creation of spatial data infrastructures at European level. The increased availability of spatial datasets resulting from these initiatives facilitates and promotes the application of Geographic Information Systems (GIS) in planning and environmental assessment, among other sectoral applications. Arguably, the inclusion of geographic information through GIS supports and enhances environmental planning processes, enabling a rapid and objective analysis of environmental issues, and presenting information in a spatial and graphical manner. However, there are a number of considerations for the successful application of spatial data and GIS, and a number of issues remain affecting consistency and validity of results. This paper provides a critical review of current issues affecting spatial dataset management and use (such as format, scale, completeness, timeliness and metadata), and discusses common GIS methods and existing constraints to their application in Strategic Environmental Assessment (SEA) and Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA). It concludes outlining existing opportunities to optimise the contribution of spatial data to environmental planning, and establishing future research and practice needs to enhance GIS use in SEA and EIA practice.
Identification of RIFL, a novel adipocyte-enriched insulin target gene with a role in lipid metabolism
Authors: Ren Gang , Kim Ji Young , Smas Cynthia M.
Published: May 2012

To identify new genes that are important in fat metabolism, we utilized the Lexicon-Genentech knockout database of genes encoding transmembrane and secreted factors and whole murine genome transcriptional profiling data that we generated for 3T3-L1 in vitro adipogenesis. Cross-referencing null models evidencing metabolic phenotypes with genes induced in adipogenesis led to identification of a new gene, which we named RIFL (refeeding induced fat and liver). RIFL-null mice have serum triglyceride levels approximately one-third of wild type. RIFL transcript is induced >100-fold during 3T3-L1 adipogenesis and is also increased markedly during adipogenesis of murine and human primary preadipocytes. siRNA-mediated knockdown of RIFL during 3T3-L1 adipogenesis results in an ∼35% decrease in adipocyte triglyceride content. Murine RIFL transcript is highly enriched in white and brown adipose tissue and liver. Fractionation of WAT reveals that RIFL transcript is exclusive to adipocytes with a lack of expression in stromal-vascular cells. Nutritional and hormonal studies are consistent with a prolipogenic function for RIFL. There is evidence of an approximately eightfold increase in RIFL transcript level in WAT in ob/ob mice compared with wild-type mice. RIFL transcript level in WAT and liver is increased ∼80- and 12-fold, respectively, following refeeding of fasted mice. Treatment of 3T3-L1 adipocytes with insulin increases RIFL transcript ≤35-fold, whereas agents that stimulate lipolysis downregulate RIFL. Interestingly, the 198-amino acid RIFL protein is predicted to be secreted and shows ∼30% overall conservation with the NH2-terminal half of angiopoietin-like 3, a liver-secreted protein that impacts lipid metabolism. In summary, our data suggest that RIFL is an important new regulator of lipid metabolism.
Impaired β-cell-β-cell coupling mediated by Cx36 gap junctions in prediabetic mice
Authors: Carvalho C. P. F. , Oliveira R. B. , Britan A. , Santos-Silva J. C. , Boschero A. C. , Meda P. , Collares-Buzato C. B.
Published: May 2012

Gap junctional intercellular communication between β-cells is crucial for proper insulin biosynthesis and secretion. The aim of this work was to investigate the expression of connexin (Cx)36 at the protein level as well as the function and structure of gap junctions (GJ) made by this protein in the endocrine pancreas of prediabetic mice. C57BL/6 mice were fed a high-fat (HF) or regular chow diet for 60 days. HF-fed mice became obese and prediabetic, as shown by peripheral insulin resistance, moderate hyperglycemia, hyperinsulinemia, and compensatory increase in endocrine pancreas mass. Compared with control mice, prediabetic animals showed a significant decrease in insulin-secretory response to glucose and displayed a significant reduction in islet Cx36 protein. Ultrastructural analysis further showed that prediabetic mice had GJ plaques about one-half the size of those of the control group. Microinjection of isolated pancreatic islets with ethidium bromide revealed that prediabetic mice featured a β-cell-β-cell coupling 30% lower than that of control animals. We conclude that β-cell-β-cell coupling mediated by Cx36 made-channels is impaired in prediabetic mice, suggesting a role of Cx36-dependent cell-to-cell communication in the pathogenesis of the early β-cell dysfunctions that lead to type 2-diabetes.
Target metabolomics revealed complementary roles of hexose- and pentose-phosphates in the regulation of carbohydrate-dependent gene expression
Authors: Diaz-Moralli Santiago , Ramos-Montoya Antonio , Marin Silvia , Fernandez-Alvarez Ana , Casado Marta , Cascante Marta
Published: May 2012

Carbohydrate response element-binding protein (ChREBP) is a transcription factor that mediates glucose signaling in mammalian liver, leading to the expression of different glycolytic and lipogenic genes, such as pyruvate kinase (L-PK) and fatty acid synthase (FAS). The current model for ChREBP activation in response to sugar phosphates holds that glucose metabolization to xylulose 5-phosphate (X-5- P) triggers the activation of protein phosphatase 2A, which dephosphorylates ChREBP and leads to its nuclear translocation and activation. However, evidence indicates that glucose 6-phosphate (G-6- P) is the most likely signal metabolite for the glucose-induced transcription of these genes. The glucose derivative that is responsible for carbohydrate-dependent gene expression remains to be identified. The difficulties in measuring G-6- P and X-5- P concentrations simultaneously and in changing them independently have hindered such identification. To discriminate between these possibilities, we adapted a liquid chromatography mass spectrometry method to identify and quantify sugar phosphates in human hepatocarcinoma cells (Hep G2) and rat hepatocytes in response to different carbon sources and in the presence/absence of a glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase inhibitor. We also used this method to demonstrate that these cells could not metabolize 2-deoxyglucose beyond 2-deoxyglucose-6-phosphate. The simultaneous quantification of sugar phosphates and FAS and L-PK expression levels demonstrated that both X-5- P and G-6- P play a role in the modulation of gene expression. In conclusion, this report presents for the first time a single mechanism that incorporates the effects of X-5- P and G-6- P on the enhancement of the expression of carbohydrate-responsive genes.
Complex autonomous firing patterns of striatal low-threshold spike interneurons
Authors: Beatty Joseph A. , Sullivan Matthew A. , Morikawa Hitoshi , Wilson Charles J.
Published: May 2012

During sensorimotor learning, tonically active neurons (TANs) in the striatum acquire bursts and pauses in their firing based on the salience of the stimulus. Striatal cholinergic interneurons display tonic intrinsic firing, even in the absence of synaptic input, that resembles TAN activity seen in vivo. However, whether there are other striatal neurons among the group identified as TANs is unknown. We used transgenic mice expressing green fluorescent protein under control of neuronal nitric oxide synthase or neuropeptide-Y promoters to aid in identifying low-threshold spike (LTS) interneurons in brain slices. We found that these neurons exhibit autonomous firing consisting of spontaneous transitions between regular, irregular, and burst firing, similar to cholinergic interneurons. As in cholinergic interneurons, these firing patterns arise from interactions between multiple intrinsic oscillatory mechanisms, but the mechanisms responsible differ. Both neurons maintain tonic firing because of persistent sodium currents, but the mechanisms of the subthreshold oscillations responsible for irregular firing are different. In LTS interneurons they rely on depolarization-activated noninactivating calcium currents, whereas those in cholinergic interneurons arise from a hyperpolarization-activated potassium conductance. Sustained membrane hyperpolarizations induce a bursting pattern in LTS interneurons, probably by recruiting a low-threshold, inactivating calcium conductance and by moving the membrane potential out of the activation range of the oscillatory mechanisms responsible for single spiking, in contrast to the bursting driven by noninactivating currents in cholinergic interneurons. The complex intrinsic firing patterns of LTS interneurons may subserve differential release of classic and peptide neurotransmitters as well as nitric oxide.
Transcriptional analysis of brown adipose tissue in leptin-deficient mice lacking inducible nitric oxide synthase: evidence of the role of Med1 in energy balance
Authors: Becerril Sara , Rodríguez Amaia , Catalán Victoria , Sáinz Neira , Ramírez Beatriz , Gómez-Ambrosi Javier , Frühbeck Gema
Published: May 2012

Leptin and nitric oxide (NO) are implicated in the control of energy homeostasis. The aim of the present study was to examine the impact of the absence of the inducible NO synthase ( iNOS) gene on the regulation of energy balance in ob/ob mice analyzing the changes in gene expression levels in brown adipose tissue (BAT). Double knockout (DBKO) mice simultaneously lacking the ob and iNOS genes were generated and the expression of genes involved in energy balance including fatty acid and glucose metabolism as well as mitochondrial genes were analyzed by microarrays. DBKO mice exhibited an improvement in energy balance with a decrease in body weight ( P < 0.001), total fat pads ( P < 0.05), and food intake ( P < 0.05), as well as an enhancement in BAT function compared with ob/ob mice. To better understand the molecular events associated with this improvement, BAT gene expression was analyzed. Of particular interest, gene expression levels of the key subunit of the Mediator complex Med1 was upregulated ( P < 0.05) in DBKO mice. Real-time PCR and immunohistochemistry further confirmed this data. Med1 is implicated in adipogenesis, lipid metabolic and biosynthetic processes, glucose metabolism, and mitochondrial metabolic pathways. Med1 plays an important role in the transcriptional control of genes implicated in energy homeostasis, suggesting that the improvement in energy balance and BAT function of the DBKO mice is mediated, at least in part, through the transcription coactivator Med1.
Superadditivity, Monotonicity, and Exponential Convexity of the Petrović‐Type Functionals
Authors: Butt Saad Ihsan , Krnić Mario , Pečarić Josip
Published: May 2012

We consider functionals derived from Petrović‐type inequalities and establish their superadditivity, subadditivity, and monotonicity properties on the corresponding real n‐tuples. By virtue of established results we also define some related functionals and investigate their properties regarding exponential convexity. Finally, the general results are then applied to some particular settings.
Visceral Leishmaniasis Clinical Management in Endemic Districts of India, Nepal, and Bangladesh
Authors: Banjara Megha Raj , Hirve Siddhivinayak , Siddiqui Niyamat Ali , Kumar Narendra , Kansal Sangeeta , Huda M. Mamun , Das Pradeep , Rijal Suman , Gurung Chitra Kumar , Malaviya Paritosh , Arana Byron , Kroeger Axel , Mondal Dinesh
Published: May 2012

Background. National VL Elimination Programs in India, Nepal and Bangladesh face challenges as home-based Miltefosine treatment is introduced.Objectives. To study constraints of VL management in endemic districts within context of national elimination programs before and after intervention.Methods. Ninety-two and 41 newly diagnosed VL patients were interviewed for clinical and provider experience in 2009 before and in 2010 after intervention (district training and improved supply of diagnostics and drugs). Providers were assessed for adherence to treatment guidelines. Facilities and doctor-patient consultations were observed to assess quality of care.Results. Miltefosine use increased from 33% to 59% except in Nepal where amphotericin was better available. Incorrect dosage and treatment interruptions were rare. Advice on potential side effects was uncommon but improved significantly in 2010. Physicians did not rule out pregnancy prior to starting Miltefosine. Fever measurement or spleen palpation was infrequently done in Bangladesh but improved after intervention (from 23% to 47%). Physician awareness of renal or liver toxicity as Miltefosine side effects was lower in Bangladesh. Bio-chemical monitoring was uncommon. Patient satisfaction with services remained low for ease of access or time provider spent with patient. Health facilities were better stocked with rK39 kits and Miltefosine in 2010.
Neural Changes following Behavioral Activation for a Depressed Breast Cancer Patient: A Functional MRI Case Study
Authors: Gawrysiak Michael J. , Carvalho John P. , Rogers Baxter P. , Nicholas Christopher R. N. , Dougherty John H. , Hopko Derek R.
Published: May 2012

Functional neuroimaging is an innovative but at this stage underutilized method to assess the efficacy of psychotherapy for depression. Functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) was used in this case study to examine changes in brain activity in a depressed breast cancer patient receiving an 8-session Behavioral Activation Treatment for Depression (BATD), based on the work of Hopko and Lejuez (2007). A music listening paradigm was used during fMRI brain scans to assess reward responsiveness at pre- and posttreatment. Following treatment, the patient exhibited attenuated depression and changes in blood oxygenation level dependence (BOLD) response in regions of the prefrontal cortex and the subgenual cingulate cortex. These preliminary findings outline a novel means to assess psychotherapy efficacy and suggest that BATD elicits functional brain changes in areas implicated in the pathophysiology of depression. Further research is necessary to explore neurobiological mechanisms of change in BATD, particularly the potential mediating effects of reward responsiveness and associated brain functioning.
Accidental Puncture of the Pulmonary Artery during a Subclavian Central Venous Catheterization
Authors: Moriceau Jérôme , Compère Vincent , Bigo Marc , Dureuil Bertrand
Published: May 2012

The complications associated with central venous catheterization are common and well known. Common malplacement locations have been described in the literature. We report the case of a direct puncture of the pulmonary artery during a subclavian central venous catheterization.
Spin-Wave Band Structure in 2D Magnonic Crystals with Elliptically Shaped Scattering Centres
Authors: Mamica Sławomir , Krawczyk Maciej , Kłos Jarosław Wojciech
Published: May 2012

Spin waves in 2D periodic magnetic nanocomposites are studied by means of the plane wave method. The effect of the ellipticity and in-plane rotation of the scattering centers on the band structure is investigated, to indicate new possibilities of fine tuning of spin-wave filter passbands.
Electromagnetic Radiation from Arbitrarily Shaped Microstrip Antenna Using the Equivalent Dipole-Moment Method
Authors: Yuan Jiade , Su Kaixiong
Published: May 2012

The equivalent dipole-moment method (EDM) is extended and applied in the analysis of electromagnetic (EM) radiation by arbitrarily shaped microstrip antenna in this paper. The method of moments (MoM) is used to solve the volume-surface integral equation (VSIE). A strip model is applied in the treatment of the feeding probe of the microstrip antenna, in which the discretized triangular elements of the excitation source are equivalent as dipole models. The proposed approach is sufficiently versatile in handling arbitrarily shaped microstrip antenna and is easily constructed through a simple procedure. Numerical results are given to demonstrate the accuracy and efficiency of this method.
Prediction and Identification of Potential Immunodominant Epitopes in Glycoproteins B, C, E, G, and I of Herpes Simplex Virus Type 2
Authors: Pan Mingjie , Wang Xingsheng , Liao Jianmin , Yin Dengke , Li Suqin , Pan Ying , Wang Yao , Xie Guangyan , Zhang Shumin , Li Yuexi
Published: May 2012

Twenty B candidate epitopes of glycoproteins B (gB2), C (gC2), E (gE2), G (gG2), and I (gI2) of herpes simplex virus type 2 (HSV-2) were predicted using DNAstar, Biosun, and Antheprot methods combined with the polynomial method. Subsequently, the biological functions of the peptides were tested via experimentsin vitro. Among the 20 epitope peptides, 17 could react with the antisera to the corresponding parent proteins in the EIA tests. In particular, five peptides, namely, gB2466–473(EQDRKPRN), gC2216–223(GRTDRPSA), gE2483–491(DPPERPDSP), gG2572–579(EPPDDDDS), and gI2286-295(CRRRYRRPRG) had strong reaction with the antisera. All conjugates of the five peptides with the carrier protein BSA could stimulate mice into producing antibodies. The antisera to these peptides reacted strongly with the corresponding parent glycoproteins during the Western Blot tests, and the peptides reacted strongly with the antibodies against the parent glycoproteins during the EIA tests. The antisera against the five peptides could neutralize HSV-2 infectionin vitro, which has not been reported until now. These results suggest that the immunodominant epitopes screened using software algorithms may be used for virus diagnosis and vaccine design against HSV-2.
Attractant Pheromone of the Neotropical SpeciesNeomegalotomus parvus(Westwood) (Heteroptera: Alydidae)
Authors: Laumann Raul Alberto , Borges Miguel , Aldrich Jeffrey R. , Khrimian Ashot , Blassioli-Moraes Maria Carolina
Published: May 2012

The Neotropical broad-headed bug,Neomegalotomus parvus(Westwood), is adapted to various leguminous crops and is considered a pest in common bean and soybean. The chemical communication of this species was studied in order to identify an attractant pheromone. Males and females ofN. parvusproduce several short-chain esters and acids, and their antennae showed electrophysiological responses to five of these compounds, three common to both sexes (hexyl butanoate, 4-methylhexyl butanoate, and hexyl hexanoate), and two female-specific compounds (4-methylhexyl pentanoate and hexyl pentanoate). Both aeration extracts of females and a solution containing five synthetic compounds mimicking the natural blend were attractive to males and femalesN. parvusin a laboratory bioassay. Aspects of the chemical ecology of the broad-headed bugs and the possibility to use pheromone-baited traps in the field for monitoring are discussed.
Staurosporine Inhibits Frequency-Dependent Myofilament Desensitization in Intact Rabbit Cardiac Trabeculae
Authors: Varian Kenneth D. , Biesiadecki Brandon J. , Ziolo Mark T. , Davis Jonathan P. , Janssen Paul M. L.
Published: May 2012

Myofilament calcium sensitivity decreases with frequency in intact healthy rabbit trabeculae and associates with Troponin I and Myosin light chain-2 phosphorylation. We here tested whether serine-threonine kinase activity is primarily responsible for this frequency-dependent modulations of myofilament calcium sensitivity. Right ventricular trabeculae were isolated from New Zealand White rabbit hearts and iontophoretically loaded with bis-fura-2. Twitch force-calcium relationships and steady state force-calcium relationships were measured at frequencies of 1 and 4 Hz at 37 °C. Staurosporine (100 nM), a nonspecific serine-threonine kinase inhibitor, or vehicle (DMSO) was included in the superfusion solution before and during the contractures. Staurosporine had no frequency-dependent effect on force development, kinetics, calcium transient amplitude, or rate of calcium transient decline. The shift in the pCa50of the force-calcium relationship was significant from6.05±0.04at 1 Hz versus5.88±0.06at 4 Hz under control conditions (vehicle,P<0.001) but not in presence of staurosporine (5.89±0.08at 1 Hz versus5.94±0.07at 4 Hz,P=NS). Phosphoprotein analysis (Pro-Q Diamond stain) confirmed that staurosporine significantly blunted the frequency-dependent phosphorylation at Troponin I and Myosin light chain-2. We conclude that frequency-dependent modulation of calcium sensitivity is mediated through a kinase-specific effect involving phosphorylation of myofilament proteins.
Single-Incision Laparoscopic Cholecystectomy: Is It a Plausible Alternative to the Traditional Four-Port Laparoscopic Approach?
Authors: Arroyo Juan Pablo , Martín-del-Campo Luis A. , Torres-Villalobos Gonzalo
Published: May 2012

The current standard-of-care for treatment of cholecystectomy is the four port laparoscopic approach. The development of single incision/laparoendoscopic single site surgery (SILC/LESS) has now led to the development of new techniques for removal of the gallbladder. The use of SILC/LESS is now currently being evaluated as the next step in treatment of cholecystectomy. This review is an attempt to consolidate the current knowledge and analyze the feasibility of world-wide implementation of SILC/LESS.
The Compressive Strength of High-Performance Concrete and Ultrahigh-Performance
Authors: Kadri E. H. , Aggoun S. , Kenai S. , Kaci A.
Published: May 2012

The compressive strength of silica fume concretes was investigated at low water-cementitious materials ratios with a naphthalene sulphonate superplasticizer. The results show that partial cement replacement up to 20% produce, higher compressive strengths than control concretes, nevertheless the strength gain is less than 15%. In this paper we propose a model to evaluate the compressive strength of silica fume concrete at any time. The model is related to the water-cementitious materials and silica-cement ratios. Taking into account the author's and other researchers’ experimental data, the accuracy of the proposed model is better than 5%.
A Bioinformatics Resource for TWEAK-Fn14 Signaling Pathway
Authors: Bhattacharjee Mitali , Raju Rajesh , Radhakrishnan Aneesha , Nanjappa Vishalakshi , Muthusamy Babylakshmi , Singh Kamlendra , Kuppusamy Dheebika , Lingala Bhavya Teja , Pan Archana , Mathur Premendu Prakash , Harsha H. C. , Prasad T. S. Keshava , Atkins Gerald J. , Pandey Akhilesh , Chatterjee Aditi
Published: May 2012

TNF-related weak inducer of apoptosis (TWEAK) is a new member of the TNF superfamily. It signals through TNFRSF12A, commonly known as Fn14. The TWEAK-Fn14 interaction regulates cellular activities including proliferation, migration, differentiation, apoptosis, angiogenesis, tissue remodeling and inflammation. Although TWEAK has been reported to be associated with autoimmune diseases, cancers, stroke, and kidney-related disorders, the downstream molecular events of TWEAK-Fn14 signaling are yet not available in any signaling pathway repository. In this paper, we manually compiled from the literature, in particular those reported in human systems, the downstream reactions stimulated by TWEAK-Fn14 interactions. Our manual amassment of the TWEAK-Fn14 pathway has resulted in cataloging of 46 proteins involved in various biochemical reactions and TWEAK-Fn14 induced expression of 28 genes. We have enabled the availability of data in various standard exchange formats from NetPath, a repository for signaling pathways. We believe that this composite molecular interaction pathway will enable identification of new signaling components in TWEAK signaling pathway. This in turn may lead to the identification of potential therapeutic targets in TWEAK-associated disorders.
n‐Bazilevic Functions
Authors: Al-Oboudi F. M.
Published: May 2012

The aim of this paper is to define and study a class of Bazilevic functions using the generalized Salagean operator. Some properties of this class are investigated: inclusion relation, some convolution properties, coefficient bounds, and other interesting results.
Detection of Degradation Effects in Field-Aged c-Si Solar Cells through IR Thermography and Digital Image Processing
Authors: Kaplani E.
Published: May 2012

Due to the vast expansion of photovoltaic (PV) module production nowadays, a great interest is shown in factors affecting PV performance and efficiency under real conditions. Particular attention is being given to degradation effects of PV cells and modules, which during the last decade are seen to be responsible for significant power losses observed in PV systems. This paper presents and analyses degradation effects observed in severely EVA discoloured PV cells from field-aged modules operating already for 18–22 years. Temperature degradation effects are identified through IR thermography in bus bars, contact solder bonds, blisters, hot spots, and hot areas.I-Vcurve analysis results showed an agreement between the source of electrical performance degradation and the degradation effects in the defected cell identified by the IR thermography. Finally, an algorithm was developed to automatically detect EVA discoloration in PV cells through processing of the digital image alone in a way closely imitating human perception of color. This nondestructive and noncostly solution could be applied in the detection of EVA discoloration in existing PV installations and the automatic monitoring and remote inspection of PV systems.
Enhanced Photoactivity of Fe + N Codoped Anatase-RutileTiO2Nanowire Film under Visible Light Irradiation
Authors: Li Kewei , Wang Haiying , Pan Chunxu , Wei Jianhong , Xiong Rui , Shi Jing
Published: May 2012

Rutile-anatase phase mixedFe+Ncodoped TiO2nanowires were designed and prepared by a two-step anodic oxidation method. The results of X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy, and high-resolution transmission electron microscopy confirm that the preparedFe+Ncodoped TiO2nanowires exhibit intimately contacted anatase-rutile heterostructure with the rutile content of 21.89%. The X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy measurements show that nitrogen and iron atoms are incorporated into the titania oxide lattice, and the UV-visible absorption spectra show that the codoping of iron and nitrogen atoms could extend the absorption to visible light region. The photocatalytic activities of all the samples were evaluated by photocatalytic degradation of methylene blue under visible light irradiation. TheFe+Ncodoped sample achieves the best response to visible light and the highest photocatalytic activities. The enhancement of photocatalytic activity forFe+Ncodoped sample should be ascribed to the synergistic effects of codoped nitrogen and iron ions and the anatase-rutile heterostructure.