bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
DYNAMICAL STUDY OF ANISOTROPY IN ANGULAR DISTRIBUTION OF FISSION FRAGMENTS IN 16O+181Ta AND 16O+208Pb FUSION–FISSION REACTIONS
Authors: PAHLAVANI M. R. , NADERI D. , MIRFATHI S. M.
Published: March 2011

The three-dimensional Langevin equation (LE) and Transition State Model (TSM) are applied to calculate prescission neutron multiplicity and anisotropy of fission fragment angular distribution for 16O+181Ta and 16O+208Pb systems. Dynamical calculations were carried out considering one-body dissipation. Theoretical results of pre-scission neutron multiplicity and anisotropy have been compared with experimental data for given systems. Calculations show that the results of anisotropy based on dynamical approach are in better agreement with the experimental data as compared with the TSM (in saddle point).
NONRELATIVISTIC LIMIT OF POINT-COUPLING MODEL
Authors: SULAKSONO A. , BÜRVENICH T. J. , HESS P. O. , MARUHN J. A.
Published: March 2011

The nonrelativistic reduction of the realistic relativistic point-coupling model is performed. The necessity to introduce the nonderivative tensor term is shown. Unfortunately a Galilean-invariant nonrelativistic Hamiltonian density could not be obtained from all terms of the point-coupling model. This fact is due to the nonrelativistic limit of the nonderivative tensor terms which are not Galilean invariant terms in its nonrelativistic forms. The result is compared with that of Skyrme–Hartree–Fock. The role of tensor and nonlinear terms and the average values of the constants in the energy functional of both models are compared and discussed. The nonrelativistic forms of a four-fermion point-coupling model using Hartree and Hartree–Fock approximations are also compared and discussed.
REEXAMINATION OF ASTROPHYSICAL RESONANCE-REACTION-RATE EQUATIONS FOR AN ISOLATED, NARROW RESONANCE
Authors: HE J. J. , HU J. , ZHANG L. Y. , LI L. , XU S. W. , YU X. Q. , LIU M. L.
Published: March 2011

The well-known astrophysical resonant-reaction-rate (RRR) equations for an isolated narrow resonance induced by the charged particles have been reexamined. The validity of those assumptions used in deriving the classical analytic equations has been checked, and found that these analytic equations only hold for certain circumstances. It shows the customary definition of "narrow" is inappropriate or ambiguous in some sense, and it awakes us not to use those analytic equations without caution. As a suggestion, it is better to use the broad-resonance equation to calculate the RRR numerically even for a narrow resonance of a few keV width. The present conclusion may influence some work in which the classical narrow-resonant equations were used for calculating the RRRs, especially at low stellar temperatures for those previously defined "narrow" resonances.
A NEW PHENOMENOLOGICAL FORMULA FOR GROUND-STATE BINDING ENERGIES
Authors: GANGOPADHYAY G.
Published: March 2011

A phenomenological formula based on liquid drop model has been proposed for ground-state binding energies of nuclei. The effect due to bunching of single particle levels has been incorporated through a term resembling the one-body Hamiltonian. The effect of n–p interaction has been included through a function of valence nucleons. A total of 50 parameters has been used in the present calculation. The root mean square (r.m.s.) deviation for the binding energy values for 2140 nuclei comes out to be 0.376 MeV, and that for 1091 alpha decay energies is 0.284 MeV. The correspondence with the conventional liquid drop model is discussed.
ON THE SOLUTION SETS OF FOUR-POINT BOUNDARY VALUE PROBLEMS FOR NONCONVEX DIFFERENTIAL INCLUSIONS
Authors: GOMAA ADEL MAHMOUD
Published: March 2011

We consider the multivalued problem [Formula: see text] under four boundary conditions u(0) = x0, u(η) = u(θ) = u(T) where 0 < η < θ < T and for F is a multifunctions from [0, T] × ℝn× ℝnto the nonempty compact subsets of ℝnnot necessary convex. We give a lemma which is useful in the study of four boundary problems for the differential equations and the differential inclusions. Further we have results that improve earlier theorems.
GENERALIZED INVERSION OF THE HOCHSCHILD COBOUNDARY OPERATOR AND DEFORMATION QUANTIZATION
Authors: BRATCHIKOV A. V.
Published: March 2011

Using a derivative decomposition of the Hochschild differential complex we define a generalized inverse of the Hochschild coboundary operator. It can be applied for systematic computations of star products on Poisson manifolds.
ELASTICA ON 2-DIMENSIONAL ANTI-DE SITTER SPACE
Authors: YÜCESAN AHMET , ORAL MEHMET
Published: March 2011

We derive differential equations for non-null elastic curves on 2-dimensional anti-de Sitter space. Then, we solve these differential equations in terms of Jacobi's elliptic functions. Also, we give a relation between curvature and torsion of elastic curve on 2-dimensional anti-de Sitter space.
GENERAL REFERENCE FRAMES AND THEIR ASSOCIATED SPACE MANIFOLDS
Authors: ARMINJON MAYEUL , REIFLER FRANK
Published: March 2011

We propose a formal definition of a general reference frame in a general spacetime, as an equivalence class of charts. This formal definition corresponds with the notion of a reference frame as being a (fictitious) deformable body, but we assume, moreover, that the time coordinate is fixed. This is necessary for quantum mechanics, because the Hamiltonian operator depends on the choice of the time coordinate. Our definition allows us to associate rigorously with each reference frame F, a unique "space" (a three-dimensional differentiable manifold), which is the set of the world lines bound to F. This also is very useful for quantum mechanics. We briefly discuss the application of these concepts to Gödel's universe.
ALGEBRO-GEOMETRIC FEYNMAN RULES
Authors: ALUFFI PAOLO , MARCOLLI MATILDE
Published: March 2011

We give a general procedure to construct "algebro-geometric Feynman rules", that is, characters of the Connes–Kreimer Hopf algebra of Feynman graphs that factor through a Grothendieck ring of immersed conical varieties, via the class of the complement of the affine graph hypersurface. In particular, this maps to the usual Grothendieck ring of varieties, defining "motivic Feynman rules". We also construct an algebro-geometric Feynman rule with values in a polynomial ring, which does not factor through the usual Grothendieck ring, and which is defined in terms of characteristic classes of singular varieties. This invariant recovers, as a special value, the Euler characteristic of the projective graph hypersurface complement. The main result underlying the construction of this invariant is a formula for the characteristic classes of the join of two projective varieties. We discuss the BPHZ renormalization procedure in this algebro-geometric context and some motivic zeta functions arising from the partition functions associated to motivic Feynman rules.
MESHFREE ELASTODYNAMIC ANALYSIS OF THREE-DIMENSIONAL SOLIDS USING RADIAL POINT INTERPOLATION METHOD
Authors: HASEGAWA KYOKO , NAKATA SUSUMU , TANAKA SATOSHI
Published: March 2011

Meshfree methods are effective tools for solving partial differential equations. The radial point interpolation method, a partial differential equation solver based on a meshfree approach, enables accurate imposition of displacement boundary conditions and has been successfully applied to elastostatic analysis of various kinds of three-dimensional solids. In this method, stiffness matrix construction accounts for the majority of CPU time required for the entire process, resulting in high computational costs, especially when higher-order numerical integration is applied for accurate matrix construction. An alternative method, modified radial point interpolation, was proposed to overcome this shortcoming and has accomplished fast computation of elastostatic solid analysis. The purpose of this study is to develop an algorithm for time-dependent simulation of three-dimensional elastic solids. We show that the modified radial point interpolation method also accelerates the construction of the mass matrix required for time-dependent analysis in addition to that of the stiffness matrix. In our approach, the problem domain is assumed to have an implicit function representation that can be constructed from a set of surface points measured using a three-dimensional scanning system. Several numerical tests for elastodynamic analysis of complex shape models are presented.
DYNAMIC MODELING OF ROTOR SHAFT WITH INTERNAL DAMPING DRIVEN THROUGH A DISSIPATIVE COUPLING
Authors: RASTOGI V. , MUKHERJEE A. , DASGUPTA A.
Published: March 2011

The paper presents the dynamic behavior of a hollow rotor shaft with internal damping driven by a dissipative coupling. The coupling in the system is absolutely flexible in transverse and bending; however, it is assumed to be torsionally rigid. Bond graph is adopted for modeling as it facilitates the system modeling from the physical paradigm itself, and the model can be easily extended to incorporate modifications. Simulation results show interesting phenomenon of limiting behavior of rotor shaft with internal damping beyond the threshold speed of instability. It is further shown that the shaft entrainment frequency of the rotor shaft primarily depends on the ratio of external and internal damping.
Chemical Bonding Analysis of HCl Pretreatment on the Omnidirectional Silicon Solar Cells with Microspherical Texture/ITO Stacks
Authors: Chen Chun-Heng , Juan Pi-Chun , Hwang Huey-Liang
Published: March 2011

A surface texturing based on nozzle-sprayed microspheres and spin-coated dielectric film was prepared for the purpose of omnidirectional light-trapping. An indium tin oxide (ITO) was applied as the antireflection coating (ARC). From the XPS results, the inter-diffusions of Si, O, and In atoms at ITO/Si junction are suppressed by the HCl pretreatment. The cell efficiency (η) with varying light incident angles from 0 to 60° was improved. Due to lack of oxygen atom at the ITO/Si interface with pretreatment, the sub-peak intensity ratio of binding energies at 531.9–530.4 eV becomes larger. The enhanced current transport with respect to the binding energy of O– state was studied. The oxygen vacancy at the silicon surface plays an important role in short circuit current (J
SC) and efficiency for the omnidirectional silicon solar cells.
Alterations in lipid metabolism and thermogenesis with emergence of brown adipocytes in white adipose tissue in diet-induced obesity-resistant Lou/C rats
Authors: Veyrat-Durebex Christelle , Poher Anne-Laure , Caillon Aurélie , Montet Xavier , Rohner-Jeanrenaud Françoise
Published: March 2011

Recent studies describe the Lou/C rat as a model of resistance to age- and diet-induced obesity and suggest a preferential channeling of nutrients toward utilization rather than storage under standard feeding conditions. The purpose of the present study was to evaluate lipid metabolism of Lou/C and Wistar rats under a high-fat (HF) diet. Four-month-old male Lou/C and Wistar animals were submitted to a 40% HF diet for 5–9 wk. Evolution of food intake, body weight, and body composition, hormonal parameters, and expression of key transcription factors and enzymes involved in lipid metabolism were determined. Wistar rats developed obesity after 5 wk of HF diet, as previously described. Among the various parameters measured, accumulation of intraperitoneal fat was particularly evident in HF-fed Wistar rats. In these animals, thermogenesis was, however, stimulated as a likely compensatory mechanism against the development of obesity. On the contrary, Lou/C animals failed to develop obesity under such a diet, and intraperitoneal fat, not including epididymal and retroperitoneal fat depots, was virtually absent. Enzyme measurements confirmed lipid utilization rather than storage, which was accompanied by the striking emergence of uncoupling protein-1, characteristic of brown adipocytes, in white adipose tissue, particularly in the subcutaneous depot.
Deficiency of PTP1B in POMC neurons leads to alterations in energy balance and homeostatic response to cold exposure
Authors: De Jonghe Bart C. , Hayes Matthew R. , Banno Ryoichi , Skibicka Karolina P. , Zimmer Derek J. , Bowen Kerisha A. , Leichner Theresa M. , Alhadeff Amber L. , Kanoski Scott E. , Cyr Nicole E. , Nillni Eduardo A. , Grill Harvey J. , Bence Kendra K.
Published: March 2011

The adipose tissue-derived hormone leptin regulates energy balance through catabolic effects on central circuits, including proopiomelanocortin (POMC) neurons. Leptin activation of POMC neurons increases thermogenesis and locomotor activity. Protein tyrosine phosphatase 1B (PTP1B) is an important negative regulator of leptin signaling. POMC neuron-specific deletion of PTP1B in mice results in reduced high-fat diet-induced body weight and adiposity gain due to increased energy expenditure and greater leptin sensitivity. Mice lacking the leptin gene ( ob/ob mice) are hypothermic and cold intolerant, whereas leptin delivery to ob/ob mice induces thermogenesis via increased sympathetic activity to brown adipose tissue (BAT). Here, we examined whether POMC PTP1B mediates the thermoregulatory response of CNS leptin signaling by evaluating food intake, body weight, core temperature (TC), and spontaneous physical activity (SPA) in response to either exogenous leptin or 4-day cold exposure (4°C) in male POMC-Ptp1b-deficient mice compared with wild-type controls. POMC-Ptp1b−/−mice were hypersensitive to leptin-induced food intake and body weight suppression compared with wild types, yet they displayed similar leptin-induced increases in TC. Interestingly, POMC-Ptp1b−/−mice had increased BAT weight and elevated plasma triiodothyronine (T3) levels in response to a 4-day cold challenge, as well as reduced SPA 24 h after cold exposure, relative to controls. These data show that PTP1B in POMC neurons plays a role in short-term cold-induced reduction of SPA and may influence cold-induced thermogenesis via enhanced activation of the thyroid axis.
Septotemporal variation in dynamics of theta: speed and habituation
Authors: Hinman James R. , Penley Stephanie C. , Long Lauren L. , Escabí Monty A. , Chrobak James J.
Published: March 2011

Theta (6–12 Hz) field potentials and the synchronization (coherence) of these potentials present neural network indices of hippocampal physiology. Theta signals within the hippocampal formation may reflect alterations in sensorimotor integration, the flow of sensory input, and/or distinct cognitive operations. While the power and coherence of theta signals vary across lamina within the septal hippocampus, limited information is available about variation in these indices across the septotemporal (long) or areal axis. The present study examined the relationship of locomotor speed to theta indices at CA1 and dentate gyrus (DG) sites across the septotemporal axis as well as in the entorhinal cortex. Our findings demonstrate the dominant relationship of speed to theta indices at septal sites. This relationship diminished systematically with distance from the septal pole of the hippocampus at both CA1 and DG sites. While theta power at entorhinal sites varied in relation to speed, there were no differences across the areal axis of the entorhinal cortex. Locomotor speed was also related to changes in theta coherence along the septotemporal axis as well as between the hippocampus and entorhinal cortex. In addition to the speed-related variation, we observed a decrease in theta power at more temporal hippocampal sites over repeated behavioral testing within a single day that was not observed at septal sites. The results outline a dynamic and distributed pattern of network activity across the septotemporal axis of the hippocampus in relation to locomotor speed and recent past experience.
Developmental influence of the cellular prion protein on the gene expression profile in mouse hippocampus
Authors: Benvegnù Stefano , Roncaglia Paola , Agostini Federica , Casalone Cristina , Corona Cristiano , Gustincich Stefano , Legname Giuseppe
Published: March 2011

The conversion of the cellular prion protein (PrPC) to an abnormal and protease-resistant isoform is the key event in prion diseases. Mice lacking PrPCare resistant to prion infection, and downregulation of PrPCduring prion infection prevents neuronal loss and the progression to clinical disease. These results are suggestive of the potential beneficial effect of silencing PrPCduring prion diseases. However, the silencing of a protein that is widely expressed throughout the central nervous system could be detrimental to brain homeostasis. The physiological role of PrPCremains still unclear, but several putative functions (e.g., neuronal development and maintenance) have been proposed. To assess the influence of PrPCon gene expression profile in the mouse brain, we undertook a microarray analysis by using RNA isolated from the hippocampus at two different developmental stages: newborn (4.5-day-old) and adult (3-mo-old) mice, both from wild-type and Prnp0/0animals. Comparing the different datasets allowed us to identify “commonly” co-regulated genes and “uniquely” deregulated genes during postnatal development. The absence of PrPCaffected several biological pathways, the most representative being cell signaling, cell-cell communication and transduction processes, calcium homeostasis, nervous system development, synaptic transmission, and cell adhesion. However, there was only a moderate alteration of the gene expression profile in our animal models. PrPCdeficiency did not lead to a dramatic alteration of gene expression profile and produced moderately altered gene expression levels from young to adult animals. Thus, our results may provide additional support to silencing endogenous PrPClevels as therapeutic approach to prion diseases.
Integrated microRNA and mRNA expression profiling in a rat colon carcinogenesis model: effect of a chemo-protective diet
Authors: Shah Manasvi S. , Schwartz Scott L. , Zhao Chen , Davidson Laurie A. , Zhou Beiyan , Lupton Joanne R. , Ivanov Ivan , Chapkin Robert S.
Published: March 2011

We have recently demonstrated that nutritional bioactives (fish oil and pectin) modulate microRNA molecular switches in the colon. Since integrated analysis of microRNA and mRNA expression at an early stage of colon cancer development is lacking, in this study, four computational approaches were utilized to test the hypothesis that microRNAs and their posttranscriptionally regulated mRNA targets, i.e., both total mRNAs and actively translated mRNA transcripts, are differentially modulated by carcinogen and diet treatment. Sprague-Dawley rats were fed diets containing corn oil ± fish oil with pectin ± cellulose and injected with azoxymethane or saline (control). Colonic mucosa was assayed at an early time of cancer progression, and global gene set enrichment analysis was used to obtain those microRNAs significantly enriched by the change in expression of their putative target genes. In addition, cumulative distribution function plots and functional network analyses were used to evaluate the impact of diet and carcinogen combination on mRNA levels induced via microRNA alterations. Finally, linear discriminant analysis was used to identify the best single-, two-, and three-microRNA combinations for classifying dietary effects and colon tumor development. We demonstrate that polysomal profiling is tightly related to microRNA changes when compared with total mRNA profiling. In addition, diet and carcinogen exposure modulated a number of microRNAs (miR-16, miR-19b, miR-21, miR26b, miR27b, miR-93, and miR-203) linked to canonical oncogenic signaling pathways. Complementary gene expression analyses showed that oncogenic PTK2B, PDE4B, and TCF4 were suppressed by the chemoprotective diet at both the mRNA and protein levels.
Can Leguminous Cover Crops Partially Replace Nitrogen Fertilization in Mississippi Delta Cotton Production?
Authors: Zablotowicz Robert M. , Reddy Krishna N. , Krutz L. Jason , Gordon R. Earl , Jackson Ryan E. , Price Leslie D.
Published: March 2011

Petroleum prices impact cotton nitrogen (N) fertilization cost. A field study was conducted from 2005 to 2007 to assess the interactions of cover crop (none, Austrian winter pea (Pisum sativumspp.arvense) or hairy vetch (Vicia villosaRoth)) and N fertilization (0, 67 or 134 kg N/ha applied at planting) on N availability and cotton yield under reduced-tillage management. Nitrogen content in desiccated residues averaged 49, 220, and 183 kg N/ha, in no cover crop, Austrian winter pea, and hairy vetch, respectively. Seventy percent of N in the above ground cover crop was derived from biological N fixation. In 2005, cover crops decreased cotton yield, while fertilizer N had no effect. In 2006, cover crops did not affect yield, but yield was positively correlated with N rate. In 2007, in no N plots, cotton yields were 65% higher in cover crops than in no cover crop. However, yield from N fertilized cover crop plots were similar to N fertilized no cover plots. These results indicate that leguminous cover crops can provide over 150 kg N/ha, but this N may not be as effective as fertilizer N for lack of synchronization between cotton N requirements and N release from residues.
Effect of ω-3 Fatty Acid on Gastrointestinal Motility after Abdominal Operation in Rats
Authors: Zhang Qun , Yu Jian-Chun , Kang Wei-Ming , Zhu Guang-Jin
Published: March 2011

Objective. To investigate whether ω-3 fatty acid could stimulate gastrointestinal motility after abdominal operation.Method. Wistar rats were randomly divided into 3 group (normal saline group, intralipid group, and ω-3 fatty acid group,n=18/group) after partial caecectomy and gastrostomosis, each group was divided into 3 groups (POD1, POD3, and POD6,n=6/group). Serum gastrin (GAS), motilin (MTL), interleukin-1 (IL-1), interleukin-6 (IL-6), tissue necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2), gastric emptying rate, and small bowel propulsion rate were measured.Results. On POD 3, gastric emptying rate and small bowel propulsion rate in ω-3 fatty acid group were higher than those in normal saline group and intralipid group. Serum GAS and MTL levels in ω-3 fatty acid group were higher than those in normal saline group, but serum IL-1, IL-6, TNF-α, and COX-2 levels were lower than those in normal saline group and intralipid group.Conclusion. ω-3 fatty acid could accelerate the recovery of gastrointestinal mobility after abdominal operation in rats, mainly by relieving postoperative inflammation.
Networks and the Epidemiology of Infectious Disease
Authors: Danon Leon , Ford Ashley P. , House Thomas , Jewell Chris P. , Keeling Matt J. , Roberts Gareth O. , Ross Joshua V. , Vernon Matthew C.
Published: March 2011

The science of networks has revolutionised research into the dynamics of interacting elements. It could be argued that epidemiology in particular has embraced the potential of network theory more than any other discipline. Here we review the growing body of research concerning the spread of infectious diseases on networks, focusing on the interplay between network theory and epidemiology. The review is split into four main sections, which examine: the types of network relevant to epidemiology; the multitude of ways these networks can be characterised; the statistical methods that can be applied to infer the epidemiological parameters on a realised network; and finally simulation and analytical methods to determine epidemic dynamics on a given network. Given the breadth of areas covered and the ever-expanding number of publications, a comprehensive review of all work is impossible. Instead, we provide a personalised overview into the areas of network epidemiology that have seen the greatest progress in recent years or have the greatest potential to provide novel insights. As such, considerable importance is placed on analytical approaches and statistical methods which are both rapidly expanding fields. Throughout this review we restrict our attention to epidemiological issues.
Continuous g‐Frame in Hilbert C∗‐Modules
Authors: Rashidi Kouchi Mehdi , Nazari Akbar
Published: March 2011

We give a generalization of g‐frame in Hilbert C∗‐modules that was introduced by Khosravies then investigated some properties of it by Xiao and Zeng. This generalization is a natural generalization of continuous and discrete g‐frames and frame in Hilbert space too. We characterize continuous g‐frame g‐Riesz in Hilbert C∗‐modules and give some equality and inequality of these frames.
A Conceptual Model for Assessing the Minimum Size Area for an Area-Wide Integrated Pest Management Program
Authors: Barclay Hugh J. , Matlock Robert , Gilchrist Stuart , Suckling David M. , Reyes Jesus , Enkerlin Walther R. , Vreysen Marc J. B.
Published: March 2011

A conceptual model was developed based on the two basic spatial elements of area-wide integrated pest management (AW-IPM), a core area and a buffer zone, to determine the minimum size of the protected area for the program to be technically feasible and economically justifiable. The model consisted of a biological part (insect dispersal) and an economic part. The biological part used random walks and diffusion equations to describe insect dispersal and to determine the minimum width of the buffer zone required to protect the core area from immigration of pests from outside. In the economic part, the size of the core area was calculated to determine the point at which the revenues from the core area equal the control costs. This model will need to be calibrated and validated for each species and geographic location. Tsetse flies and the Mediterranean fruit fly are used as case studies to illustrate the model.
May Ingestion of Leachate from Decomposed Corpses Cause Appendicitis? A Case Report
Authors: Domingues-Ferreira Maurício , Saddi-Rosa Pedro , Santos André Luis dos
Published: March 2011

The general consensus is that appendicitis is basically provoked by fecaliths or lymphoid hyperplasic obstruction. Several studies based on histological diagnosis have not confirmed this hypothesis. On the contrary, obstruction has been proved in only a minority of cases. Diverse infections by parasites, bacteria, fungus, and noninfective agents have been associated with appendicitis in the medical literature. We describe a firefighter, who ingested a small quantity of leachate from decomposing corpses while working and developed enteritis a few hours later, which lasted several days and evolved to appendicitis. This case raises the possibility that the high quantity of bacteria concentration present in the leachate could have provoked enteritis and the subsequent appendicitis due to a direct effect of the bacteria on the appendix.
Unusual Clinical and Pathological Features in Pemphigus Vulgaris: A Potential Diagnostic Pitfall
Authors: Caltabiano Rosario , Magro Gaetano , Puzzo Lidia , Vasquez Enrico , De Pasquale Rocco
Published: March 2011

We describe the case of a 67-year-old woman affected by pemphigus vulgaris with a dry whitish scaly lesion in the upper lip. Clinically, this lesion resembled an actinic keratosis. Although histological examination revealed a focal acantholysis, the finding of a moderate-to-severe dysplastic epithelium was consistent with the diagnosis of acantholytic actinic keratosis with moderate/severe dysplasia. Nevertheless, the complete resolution of the lip lesion after systemic therapy for pemphigus vulgaris led us to reconsider the possibility that we were dealing with a pemphigus vulgaris with unusual clinical and histological features. The previously reported cytological dysplasia was better regarded reactive rather than neoplastic, likely as the result to the inflammatory injury.
Virus-Negative Active Lymphocytic Myocarditis Progressing to a Fibrotic Stage
Authors: Gerbaud Edouard , Vital Anne , Erickson Matthew , Montaudon Michel , Harcaut Emmanuel , Pellegrin Jean luc , Laurent François , Coste Pierre
Published: March 2011

We report a fairly special case of lymphocytic myocarditis progressing to a fibrotic stage, described using multimodality imaging and confirmed on histopathology. This paper presents an uncommon diagnosis with a probable guarded prognosis.
The Argentine Approach to Radiation Safety: Its Ethical Basis
Authors: González Abel J.
Published: March 2011

The ethical bases of Argentina′s radiation safety approach are reviewed. The
applied principles are those recommended and established internationally,
namely: the principle of justification of decisions that alters the radiation exposure
situation; the principle of optimization of protection and safety; the principle of
individual protection for restricting possible inequitable outcomes of optimized
safety; and the implicit principle of intergenerational prudence for protection
future generations and the habitat. The principles are compared vis-à-vis the
prevalent ethical doctrines: justification vis-à-vis teleology; optimization vis-à-vis utilitarianism; individual protection vis-à-vis deontology; and, intergenerational
prudence vis-à-vis aretaicism (or virtuosity). The application of the principles and their ethics in Argentina is analysed. These principles are applied to ALL exposure to radiation harm; namely, to exposures to actual doses and to exposures to actual risk and potential doses, including those related to the safety of nuclear installations, and they are harmonized and applied in conjunction. It is concluded that building a bridge among all available ethical doctrines and
applying it to radiation safety against actual doses and actual risk and potential doses is at the roots of the successful nuclear regulatory experience in Argentina.
Treatment Options for Relapsed and Refractory Multiple Myeloma
Authors: Lonial Sagar , Mitsiades Constantine S. , Richardson Paul G.
Published: March 2011

Treatment options for patients with relapsed myeloma have benefited from the development of new targeted agents. The use of bortezomib, thalidomide, and lenalidomide have dramatically changed outcomes for patients with relapsed myeloma. New agents are also in development, on the basis of preclinical rationale, as well as combinations of conventional and novel agents. Together each of these treatment approaches are being tested in phase I, II, and III clinical trials, with the goal of prolonged duration of remission and, ultimately, improved overall survival. Clin Cancer Res; 17(6); 1264–77. ©2011 AACR.
From Myeloma Precursor Disease to Multiple Myeloma: New Diagnostic Concepts and Opportunities for Early Intervention
Authors: Landgren Ola , Kyle Robert A. , Rajkumar S. Vincent
Published: March 2011

Since monoclonal gammopathy of undetermined significance (MGUS) was first described more than 30 years ago, the definition of the entity has evolved. Today, 3 distinct clinical MGUS subtypes have been defined: non–immunoglobulin M (IgM; IgG or IgA) MGUS, IgM MGUS, and light chain MGUS. Each clinical MGUS subtype is characterized by unique intermediate stages and progression events. Although we now have strong evidence that multiple myeloma is consistently preceded by a precursor state at the molecular level, there is urgent need to better understand mechanisms that regulate transformation from precursor to full-blown multiple myeloma. In the future, if such knowledge was available, it would allow clinicians to define high-risk and low-risk precursor patients for a more tailored clinical management. Also, it would provide insights on the individual patient's disease biology, which, in turn, can be used for targeted and more individualized treatment strategies. On the basis of current clinical guidelines, patients diagnosed with MGUS and smoldering myeloma should not be treated outside of clinical trials. In the near future, it seems reasonable to believe that high-risk precursor patients will likely become candidates for early treatment strategies. In this review, we discuss novel insights from recent studies and propose future directions of relevance for clinical management and research studies. Clin Cancer Res; 17(6); 1243–52. ©2011 AACR.
Genomics in Multiple Myeloma
Authors: Munshi Nikhil C. , Avet-Loiseau Hervé
Published: March 2011

Multiple myeloma (MM) is a complex disease that is driven by numerous genetic and epigenetic alterations. Comprehensive oncogenomic analysis indicates the presence of many highly recurrent and highly focal amplifications and/or deletions in the MM genome. Integrated oncogenomic analyses of human MM have identified candidates resident within regions of amplification and/or deletions that are predicted to be involved in MM pathogenesis and progression. The biological behavior and clinical outcome in MM are dependent on these molecular determinants, which are also attractive therapeutic targets. The data obtained from extensive analysis of patient samples, with annotated clinical outcomes, are providing insights into molecular mechanisms of disease behavior, helping to develop sensitive prognostic models, identifying novel therapeutic targets, providing the framework for the development of molecularly based therapies, and, eventually, will help in developing individualized therapy to improve outcomes, with reduced toxicity. Clin Cancer Res; 17(6); 1234–42. ©2011 AACR.
Activation of NF-κB Is a Novel Target of KRAS-Induced Endometrial Carcinogenesis
Authors: Mizumoto Yasunari , Kyo Satoru , Kiyono Tohru , Takakura Masahiro , Nakamura Mitsuhiro , Maida Yoshiko , Mori Noriko , Bono Yukiko , Sakurai Hiroaki , Inoue Masaki
Published: March 2011

Purpose: Although the KRAS mutation is one of critical genetic alterations in endometrial carcinogenesis, the downstream targets are not known.

Experimental Design: In this study, we investigated the molecular targets of KRAS signals, using tumorigenic cells with oncogenic KRAS mutation established from telomerase reverse transcriptase (TERT)-immortalized endometrial epithelial cells.

Results: We first confirmed that the RAF-ERK pathway, but not the PI3K-Akt pathway, was activated in KRAS tumorigenic cells. However, the introduction of constitutively active MAP/ERK kinase into immortalized cells to mimic RAF-ERK activation failed to obtain tumorigenic phenotypes, indicating the existence of other carcinogenic pathways triggered by KRAS. Recent evidence suggestive of linkage with KRAS signals prompted us to examine the involvement of NF-κB in endometrial carcinogenesis. We found that the DNA-binding activity of NF-κB was markedly elevated in KRAS tumorigenic cells compared with TERT-immortalized cells. Furthermore, the ability of NF-κB to activate the target gene promoters significantly increased in KRAS tumorigenic cells. Introduction of a mutant IκB that is resistant to degradation and thereby enhances the inhibitory effect on NF-κB largely abrogated the transformed phenotypes of KRAS tumorigenic cells. Thus, oncogenic KRAS signals contributed to the tumorigenic phenotypes of endometrial cells by activating the transcription function of NF-κB.

Conclusions: These findings clearly show that NF-κB activation is a novel target of oncogenic KRAS in endometrial carcinogenesis, implying the potential utility of NF-κB inhibitors for endometrial cancer chemoprevention, especially with KRAS mutation. Clin Cancer Res; 17(6); 1341–50. ©2011 AACR.
Clinical Significance of Genetic Variations in the PI3K/PTEN/AKT/mTOR Pathway in Korean Patients with Colorectal Cancer
Authors: Kim Jong Gwang , Chae Yee Soo , Sohn Sang Kyun , Kang Byung Woog , Moon Joon Ho , Lee Soo Jung , Jeon Seong Woo , Park Jun Seok , Park Jin Young , Choi Gyu Seog
Published: March 2011

Objective: Signaling through the PI3K/PTEN/AKT/mTOR pathway is responsible for balancing cell survival and apoptosis. Accordingly, the present study analyzed 14 SNPs of the PI3K/PTEN/AKT/mTOR pathway genes and their impact on the prognosis for patients with colorectal cancer. Methods: 444 consecutive patients with surgically resected colorectal adenocarcinoma were enrolled in the present study. The genomic DNA was extracted from fresh colorectal tissue, and 14 polymorphisms of the PI3K/PTEN/AKT/mTOR pathway genes were determined using a real-time PCR genotyping assay. Results: Pathologic stages after surgery were as follows: stage 0/I (n = 85, 19.1%), stage II (n = 149, 33.6%), stage III (n = 147, 33.1%), and stage IV (n = 63, 14.2%). Univariate and multivariate survival analysis including stage, age, site of disease, adjuvant chemotherapy, and carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA) level showed that these polymorphisms were not associated with progression-free or overall survival. For the clinicopathologic parameters, CEA level and TNM stage were significant prognostic factors in a Cox model for survival. Conclusion: None of the 14 SNPs of the PI3K/PTEN/AKT/mTOR pathway genes investigated in this study was found to be an independent prognostic marker for Korean patients with surgically resected colorectal cancer.
Prognostic Factors in Small Cell Lung Cancer: A New Prognostic Index in Korean Patients
Authors: Hong Soojung , Cho Byoung Chul , Choi Hye Jin , Jung Minkyu , Lee Soo Hyeon , Park Kyung Soo , Kim Se Kyu , Kim Joo Hang
Published: March 2011

Objective: The aims of this study were to identify prognostic factors for overall survival (OS) in patients with small cell lung cancer (SCLC) and to construct a prognostic index on the basis of their expected OS. Long-term survivors were also given special attention. Methods: We retrospectively analyzed 295 patients diagnosed with SCLC from January 2002 to September 2007 at the Severance Hospital, Seoul, Republic of Korea. Patient history was reviewed regarding both clinical and tumor-related markers, and treatment-related factors were also evaluated. Results: There were 131 (44.4%) patients with limited disease (LD) and 164 (55.6%) with extensive disease (ED). Median follow-up lasted 9.4 months. Objective response to chemotherapy was 66.8%. The median survival time (MST) was 11.2 months in all patients, 20.4 months in LD patients, and 7.7 months in ED patients. The median progression-free survival was 9.4 months. Independent prognostic factors for overall survival (OS) were extent of disease, performance status, and CYFRA 21-1 level. We classified all patients into four groups based on the results of multivariate analysis using classification and regression tree analysis. Median survival times were 22.7, 13.7, 8.5, and 3.2 months, respectively. A total of 51 (17.3%) patients from the entire study population were evaluated for long-term survival, which was defined as survival >2 years. Their MST was 43.1 months, and extent of disease, performance status, and CYFRA 21-1 were independent prognostic factors for long-term survival. Conclusions: We confirmed the well-known prognosticators, disease extent and performance status, in our patients, but further identified CYFRA 21-1 as independent prognostic factor. A prognostic index was constructed to create four classifications of SCLC considering these variables.
Molecular Chaperones and Associated Cellular Clearance Mechanisms against Toxic Protein Conformers in Parkinson’s Disease
Authors: Hinault Marie-Pierre , Farina-Henriquez-Cuendet America , Goloubinoff Pierre
Published: March 2011

Parkinson’s disease (PD) is a slowly progressive neurodegenerative disorder marked by the loss of dopaminergic neurons (in particular in the substantia nigra) causing severe impairment of movement coordination and locomotion, associated with the accumulation of aggregated α-synuclein (α-Syn) into proteinaceous inclusions named Lewy bodies. Various early forms of misfolded α-Syn oligomers are cytotoxic. Their formation is favored by mutations and external factors, such as heavy metals, pesticides, trauma-related oxidative stress and heat shock. Here, we discuss the role of several complementing cellular defense mechanisms that may counteract PD pathogenesis, especially in youth, and whose effectiveness decreases with age. Particular emphasis is given to the ‘holdase’ and ‘unfoldase’ molecular chaperones that provide cells with potent means to neutralize and scavenge toxic protein conformers. Because chaperones can specifically recognize misfolded proteins, they are key specificity factors for other cellular defenses, such as proteolysis by the proteasome and autophagy. The efficiency of the cellular defenses decreases in stressed or aging neurons, leading to neuroinflammation, apoptosis and tissue loss. Thus, drugs that can upregulate the molecular chaperones, the ubiquitin-proteasome system and autophagy in brain tissues are promising avenues for therapies against PD and other mutation-, stress- or age-dependent protein-misfolding diseases.
The development of ideal-typical welfare regime theory
Authors: Aspalter Christian
Published: March 2011

This paper focuses on recent developments in ‘ideal-typical’ welfare analysis, including findings on East Asia, Eastern Central Europe and, for the first time, Latin America. The characteristics of a new ideal-typical welfare regime in large parts of Latin America are singled out, looking at key features of major welfare state systems.
Effect of a surface resin layer covering the radiating patch on performance of a three dimensional integrated microstrip antenna
Authors: Fujun Xu  , Lan Yao  , Da Zhao  , Muwen Jiang  , Yiping Qiu
Published: March 2011

A three dimensional integrated microstrip antenna (3DIMA) is woven into a 3D orthogonal woven composite to possess load-bearing capability while functioning as an antenna. In this article, the effect of a 1 mm resin layer on the radiating patch of a 3DIMA on its performance is investigated using both simulation and experimental methods. The simulation work is performed using the antenna simulation software before fabrication. The 3DIMAs with and without a resin layer are designed, manufactured, and tested. The results show that the resonant frequency and the gain value of the 3DIMAs with a resin layer on its radiating patch are 1.36 GHz and —3.6 dB, while those of the 3DIMAs without the resin layer are 1.41 GHz and 0.5 dB. This indicates that a resin layer on the radiating patch may hinder the performance of composite antennas and therefore should be minimized.
The Use of Grounded Theory to Investigate the Role of Teacher Education on STEM Teachers’ Career Paths in High-Need Schools
Authors: Kirchhoff Allison , Lawrenz Frances
Published: March 2011

An inductive grounded theory approach was used to investigate the role of teacher education on the career paths of 38 Noyce scholarship recipients (“scholars”), most of whom were teaching in high-need schools. The emergent research design was guided by the initial research question: “What are Noyce scholars’ reasons for the decisions made on the career paths of becoming and remaining teachers in high-need schools?” In-depth interviews were conducted and analyzed, resulting in a theoretical model of their career paths that revealed that some components of teacher education played a role in the scholars’ career paths. Specifically, the role of teacher education programs in providing ongoing support and specific preparation for high-need settings was influential on the scholars’ career paths.
The Emergence of Los Angeles as a Fashion Hub
Authors: Williams Sarah , Currid-Halkett Elizabeth
Published: March 2011

The US fashion industry is a useful lens through which to view the transformation of the country’s urban economic systems. Initially an industrial vanguard, fashion has evolved into a more design-oriented sector and a central part of the ‘cognitive-cultural economy’. Fashion is also a clear demonstration of place-specific comparative advantage and specialisation, intensely linked to ‘place in product’. The paper traces the fashion industry’s evolution from 1986 to 2007, focusing on New York and Los Angeles. The composition of the industry in each locale demonstrates each city’s comparative advantage and these advantages may be key determinants of their future fortunes. Using geographical information systems (GIS), fashion’s current spatial form is studied. Within the industry’s sub-sectors, spatial patterns and similar geographical clustering emerge. The industry may be facing somewhat of a reconfiguring of its economic geography; however, the fashion industry’s spatial-structural patterns persist within each city. We also find that fashion, like high technology and Hollywood, tends to produce regional network agglomerations, strong headquarter cities and co-location of particular sectors. Our findings are consistent with the larger theoretical and empirical observations on the post-industrial landscape.
Placing Technological Innovation in Globalising China
Authors: Lin George C. S. , Wang Cassandra C. , Zhou Yu , Sun Yifei , Wei Yehua Dennis
Published: March 2011

This study critically examines the relevance of the perceived notions of localised production linkages, knowledge spillover and external technology transfer to the experiences of the growth of the ICT industry in China. The research is based on a major firm-level survey conducted in China’s three most important mega urban regions—Beijing, Shanghai-Suzhou and Shenzhen-Dongguan—where the bulk of the Chinese ICT industry is located. The results of the survey showed a distinct landscape of ICT industrial production in which each of the Chinese regions has functioned as the site of capital investment from different sources for different strategic interests. Despite a marked regional variation in ownership, industrial structure, market orientation and technological investment, firms in all regions have invariably reported internal development as the main source of core technology. A negative relationship existed between the level of technological innovation and external orientation in both capital investment and export production. No evidence has been found to verify the hypothesis that a higher level of technological innovation would co-exist with stronger production linkages and knowledge exchanges with both local firms and foreign-invested enterprises. A further analysis of the firms with different technological performance has highlighted the significance of regional setting, ownership, ability of capital mobilisation and corporate strategy and management in the process of technological innovation.
Impacts of Lisinopril and Lisinopril Plus Simvastatin on Erythrocyte and Plasma Arginase, Nitrite, and Nitrate in Hypertensive Patients
Authors: Kosenko Elena , Tikhonova Lyudmila , Suslikov Alexander , Kaminsky Yury
Published: March 2011

Angiotensin‐converting enzyme inhibitors are effective at reducing blood pressure, whereas statins decrease plasma cholesterol, impeding atherosclerosis. The authors hypothesize that these medications may improve blood pressure by modifying the arginase—nitric oxide synthase system of erythrocytes. In this study, the effects of lisinopril alone versus lisinopril + simvastatin on erythrocyte and plasma arginase enzyme and nitric oxide metabolites are compared. Patients with atherosclerosis and hypertension are randomly assigned to receive lisinopril 10 to 20 mg/d or lisinopril 10 to 20 mg/d plus simvastatin 20 mg/d for 24 weeks. Higher arginase activity is observed in erythrocytes from 100% of patients and mainly recovered after 12 and 24 weeks of treatment with lisinopril or lisinopril + simvastatin. Plasma arginase activity is 3 orders of magnitude lower than erythrocyte arginase activity in all participants, suggesting a lack of its clinical significance. Both treatments cause the increase in plasma NO2−, NO3−, and NO2− + NO3− in 100% of patients. Erythrocyte NO2− + NO3− concentration is greatly decreased in hypertensive patients but recovers after monotherapy and combined therapy. The results show for the first time that lisinopril monotherapy and combined lisinopril + simvastatin therapy exhibit pronounced and equipotential normalizing effects on erythrocyte arginase and nitric oxide synthase activities.