bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Microglial activation induced by brain trauma is suppressed by post-injury treatment with a PARP inhibitor
Authors: d’Avila Joana C , Lam Tina I , Bingham Deborah , Shi Jian , Won Seok Joon , Kauppinen Tiina M , Massa Stephen , Liu Jialing , Swanson Raymond A
Published: February 2012

Background

Traumatic brain injury (TBI) induces activation of microglia. Activated microglia can in turn increase secondary injury and impair recovery. This innate immune response requires hours to days to become fully manifest, thus providing a clinically relevant window of opportunity for therapeutic intervention. Microglial activation is regulated in part by poly(ADP-ribose) polymerase-1 (PARP-1). Inhibition of PARP-1 activity suppresses NF-kB-dependent gene transcription and thereby blocks several aspects of microglial activation. Here we evaluated the efficacy of a PARP inhibitor, INO-1001, in suppressing microglial activation after cortical impact in the rat.

Methods

Rats were subjected to controlled cortical impact and subsequently treated with 10 mg/kg of INO-1001 (or vehicle alone) beginning 20 - 24 hours after the TBI. Brains were harvested at several time points for histological evaluation of inflammation and neuronal survival, using markers for microglial activation (morphology and CD11b expression), astrocyte activation (GFAP), and neuronal survival (NeuN). Rats were also evaluated at 8 weeks after TBI using measures of forelimb dexterity: the sticky tape test, cylinder test, and vermicelli test.

Results

Peak microglial and astrocyte activation was observed 5 to 7 days after this injury. INO-1001 significantly reduced microglial activation in the peri-lesion cortex and ipsilateral hippocampus. No rebound inflammation was observed in rats that were treated with INO-1001 or vehicle for 12 days followed by 4 days without drug. The reduced inflammation was associated with increased neuronal survival in the peri-lesion cortex and improved performance on tests of forelimb dexterity conducted 8 weeks after TBI.

Conclusions

Treatment with a PARP inhibitor for 12 days after TBI, with the first dose given as long as 20 hours after injury, can reduce inflammation and improve histological and functional outcomes.
Minocycline modulates antigen-specific CTL activity through inactivation of mononuclear phagocytes in patients with HTLV-I associated neurologic disease
Authors: Enose-Akahata Yoshimi , Matsuura Eiji , Tanaka Yuetsu , Oh Unsong , Jacobson Steven
Published: February 2012

Background

The activation of mononuclear phagocytes (MPs), including monocytes, macrophages and dendritic cells, contributes to central nervous system inflammation in various neurological diseases. In HTLV-I-associated myelopathy/tropical spastic paraparesis (HAM/TSP), MPs are reservoirs of HTLV-I, and induce proinflammatory cytokines and excess T cell responses. The virus-infected or activated MPs may play a role in immuneregulation and disease progression in patients with HTLV-I-associated neurological diseases.

Results

Phenotypic analysis of CD14+monocytes in HAM/TSP patients demonstrated high expression of CX3CR1 and HLA-DR in CD14lowCD16+monocytes, compared to healthy normal donors (NDs) and asymptomatic carriers (ACs), and the production of TNF-α and IL-1β in cultured CD14+cells of HAM/TSP patients. CD14+cells of HAM/TSP patients also showed acceleration of HTLV-I Tax expression in CD4+T cells. Minocycline, an inhibitor of activated MPs, decreased TNF-α expression in CD14+cells and IL-1β release in PBMCs of HAM/TSP patients. Minocycline significantly inhibited spontaneous lymphoproliferation and degranulation/IFN-γ expression in CD8+T cells of HAM/TSP patients. Treatment of minocycline also inhibited IFN-γ expression in CD8+T cells of HAM/TSP patients after Tax11-19 stimulation and downregulated MHC class I expression in CD14+cells.

Conclusion

These results demonstrate that minocycline directly inhibits the activated MPs and that the downregulation of MP function can modulate CD8+T cells function in HAM/TSP patients. It is suggested that activated MPs may be a therapeutic target for clinical intervention in HAM/TSP.
Velocity analysis using weighted semblance
Authors: Luo Simon , Hale Dave
Published: February 2012

Increasing the resolution of semblance-based velocity spectra, or semblance spectra, is useful for estimating normal moveout velocities, as increased resolution can help to distinguish peaks in the spectra. The resolution of semblance spectra depends on the sensitivity of semblance to changes in velocity. By weighting terms in the semblance calculation that are more sensitive to changes in velocity, we can increase resolution. Our implementation of weighted semblance is a straightforward extension of conventional semblance. Somewhat surprisingly, we increase resolution by choosing an offset-dependent weighting function that minimizes semblance. We test our method on synthetic and field data, and our tests confirm that weighted semblance provides higher resolution than conventional semblance.
Proadrenomedullin N-Terminal 20 Peptide Increases Kinesin's Velocity Both in Vitro and in Vivo
Authors: Larráyoz Ignacio M. , Martínez Alfredo
Published: February 2012

Intracellular cargo transport relies on microtubules and motor proteins such as kinesins and dyneins. Currently we have ample knowledge of the mechanisms by which motor proteins propel themselves along the microtubules, but little is known about intracellular factors that regulate motor speed. Here we show that proadrenomedullin N-terminal 20 peptide (PAMP) increases kinesin velocity and ATP consumption in a dose-dependent manner, using a variety of human kinesins. Structure-activity studies found that the terminal amide of PAMP is required for modulating kinesin activity and that the smallest peptide fragment retaining this role is PAMP(12–20). On the other hand, peptide fragments as small as PAMP(18–20) maintained the ability of delaying tubulin polymerization, another function previously described for PAMP, indicating that these two activities depend on different regions of the molecule. To demonstrate that these observations are also relevant in vivo, hippocampal neurons were isolated from mice lacking the gene coding for PAMP and from wild type littermates. Intravital stains followed by time-lapse microscopy analysis revealed that mitochondrial speed inside neurons lacking PAMP was significantly slower than in cells expressing the peptide. External addition of synthetic PAMP reversed this phenotype in PAMP-null neurons. Besides the obvious implications for better understanding cell biology, these results may be also relevant for the rapidly evolving discipline of nanotechnology because PAMP may be used as an accelerator of nanodevices based on microtubules and motor proteins.
Estradiol Release Kinetics Determine Tissue Response in Ovariectomized Rats
Authors: Otto Christiane , Kantner Ingrid , Nubbemeyer Reinhard , Schkoldow Jenny , Fuchs Iris , Krahl Elisabeth , Vonk Richardus , Schüler Christiane , Fritzemeier Karl-Heinrich , Erben Reinhold G.
Published: February 2012

Estrogen replacement is an effective therapy of postmenopausal symptoms such as hot flushes, bone loss, and vaginal dryness. Undesired estrogen effects are the stimulation of uterine and mammary gland epithelial cell proliferation as well as hepatic estrogenicity. In this study, we examined the influence of different estradiol release kinetics on tissue responsivity in ovariectomized (OVX) rats. Pulsed release kinetics was achieved by ip or sc administration of estradiol dissolved in physiological saline containing 10% ethanol (EtOH/NaCl) whereas continuous release kinetics was achieved by sc injection of estradiol dissolved in benzylbenzoate/ricinus oil (1+4, vol/vol). Initial 3-d experiments in OVX rats showed that pulsed ip estradiol administration had profoundly reduced stimulatory effects on the uterus and the liver compared with continuous release kinetics. On the other hand, both administration forms prevented severe vaginal atrophy. Based on these results, we compared the effects of pulsed (sc in EtOH/NaCl) vs. continuous (sc in benzylbenzoate/ricinus oil) estradiol release kinetics on bone, uterus, mammary gland, and liver in a 4-month study in OVX rats. Ovariectomy-induced bone loss was prevented by both administration regimes. However, pulsed estradiol resulted in lower uterine weight, reduced induction of hepatic gene expression, and reduced mammary epithelial hyperplasia relative to continuous estradiol exposure. We conclude that organ responsivity is influenced by different hormone release kinetics, a fact that might be exploited to reduce undesired estradiol effects in postmenopausal women.
Intestinal Cell Phosphate Uptake and the Targeted Knockout of the 1,25D3-MARRS Receptor/PDIA3/ERp57
Authors: Nemere Ilka , Garcia-Garbi Natalio , Hämmerling Günter J. , Winger Quinton
Published: February 2012

We have crossed ERp57flx/flx mice with commercially available mice expressing villin-driven cre-recombinase. Enterocytes isolated from 3- to 4-wk-old littermate (LM) male mice responded to 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3 [1,25(OH)2D3] with enhanced phosphate uptake relative to corresponding controls within 1 min of addition, whereas in cells from targeted knockout (KO) mice, the response was severely blunted. Unlike chick enterocytes, mouse enterocytes did not respond to phorbol ester with enhanced phosphate uptake. However, forskolin, which does not stimulate phosphate uptake in chick intestinal cells, did so in enterocytes isolated from either young male LM or KO mice. Intestinal cells isolated from young female LM mice also responded to 1,25(OH)2D3 with enhanced phosphate uptake within 5 min of hormone addition, whereas cells from KO mice did not. Forskolin also stimulated phosphate uptake in enterocytes from young female KO or LM mice. As with intestinal cells from adult male chickens or rats, cells from adult (8 wk) male LM mice lost the ability to respond to 1,25(OH)2D3 with enhanced phosphate uptake. In contrast, intestinal cells from adult female LM mice did respond with enhanced phosphate uptake within 1 min of steroid hormone addition relative to corresponding controls, and the magnitude of the effect was greater than that observed in enterocytes of young females. Cells isolated from young or adult male or female LM mice failed to respond to 1,25(OH)2D3 with enhanced protein kinase C activity. Finally, we have previously reported that mouse enterocytes have cell surface vitamin D receptor; however preincubation of such cells with anti-vitamin D receptor antibodies demonstrated that the classical receptor is not involved in the rapid 1,25(OH)2D3-stimulated uptake of phosphate.
Cellular Distribution, Regulated Expression, and Functional Role of the Anorexigenic Peptide, NUCB2/Nesfatin-1, in the Testis
Authors: García-Galiano D. , Pineda R. , Ilhan T. , Castellano J. M. , Ruiz-Pino F. , Sánchez-Garrido M. A. , Vazquez M. J. , Sangiao-Alvarellos S. , Romero-Ruiz A. , Pinilla L. , Diéguez C. , Gaytán F. , Tena-Sempere M.
Published: February 2012

Nesfatin-1, product of the precursor NEFA/nucleobindin2 (NUCB2), was initially identified as anorectic hypothalamic neuropeptide, acting in a leptin-independent manner. In addition to its central role in the control of energy homeostasis, evidence has mounted recently that nesfatin-1 is also produced in peripheral metabolic tissues, such as pancreas, adipose, and gut. Moreover, nesfatin-1 has been shown to participate in the control of body functions gated by whole-body energy homeostasis, including puberty onset. Yet, whether, as is the case for other metabolic neuropeptides, NUCB2/nesfatin-1 participates in the direct control of gonadal function remains unexplored. We document here for the first time the expression of NUCB2 mRNA in rat, mouse, and human testes, where NUCB2/nesfatin-1 protein was identified in interstitial mature Leydig cells. Yet in rats, NUCB2/nesfatin-1 became expressed in Sertoli cells upon Leydig cell elimination and was also detected in Leydig cell progenitors. Although NUCB2 mRNA levels did not overtly change in rat testis during pubertal maturation and after short-term fasting, NUCB2/nesfatin-1 content significantly increased along the puberty-to-adult transition and was markedly suppressed after fasting. In addition, testicular NUCB2/nesfatin-1 expression was up-regulated by pituitary LH, because hypophysectomy decreased, whereas human choriogonadotropin (super-agonist of LH receptors) replacement enhanced, NUCB2/nesfatin-1 mRNA and peptide levels. Finally, nesfatin-1 increased human choriogonadotropin-stimulated testosterone secretion by rat testicular explants ex vivo. Our data are the first to disclose the presence and functional role of NUCB2/nesfatin-1 in the testis, where its expression is regulated by developmental, metabolic, and hormonal cues as well as by Leydig cell-derived factors. Our observations expand the reproductive dimension of nesfatin-1, which may operate directly at the testicular level to link energy homeostasis, puberty onset, and gonadal function.
Why Study the Past?
Authors: Spivak Gayatri Chakravorty
Published: February 2012

Why study the past? Because we must. The computer seems to offer us access to simultaneity. We must therefore study the past “broadly.” Primo Levi offers us an example. But the access to simultaneity is a simulacrum, for the computing (intending) subject is determined by computer programming. In earlier times theorists wrote of the determination of the intending subject. Gilles Deleuze and Félix Guattari offer us an example. Such elite theory has not disappeared. Programming does empirically what they talked about sociologically, historically, psychologically. Yet we must study history broadly. Like all practice, it must ground itself on specific errors.
Successful fibroid embolization of pelvic and inferior mesenteric artery collaterals after previous uterine artery embolization
Authors: Dixon Shaheen , Tapping Charles Ross , Chuah Phei Shan , Bratby Mark , Uberoi Raman , Anthony Susan
Published: February 2012

A 47-year-old woman with a history of myomectomies and uterine artery embolization 15 years previously presented with increasing menorrhagia and dysmenorrhea. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) demonstrated multiple enhancing fibroids, extensive uterine supply from what appeared to be patent uterine arteries, and significant supply from what appeared to be the left ovarian artery. Aortography demonstrated no ovarian supply, but extensive collateral supply from distal branches of the inferior mesenteric artery (IMA), with further collateral supply from the anterior division of both internal iliac arteries. There was no filling of the uterine arteries distal to the coils. Embolization was performed with technical and clinical success. This case highlights the potential for recruitment of collateral vessels following coil embolization and is the first reported case of successful fibroid embolization from distal IMA branches.
Short first-pass MRI of the breast
Authors: Fischer Uwe , Korthauer Annette , Baum Friedemann , Luftner-Nagel Susanne , Heyden Dorit , Marten-Engelke Katharina
Published: February 2012

To reduce examination time and costs, a new concept for MRI of the breast is presented. This short first-pass MRI takes 4–5 minutes and could be applied to approximately three-quarters of all women.
Comparative evaluation of grip and pinch strength in an Asian and European population
Authors: Anjum Syed Neshat , Choudary Poorva , Dimri Ravi , Ankarath Sudhi
Published: February 2012

Introduction

Evaluation of grip and pinch strengths of the hand is an effective way of measuring hand function. There is no study available on grip strength (GS) in young healthy Asian populations. We deal with a large number of Asian patients in Yorkshire. This study was carried out to gather data on the grip and pinch strengths in adult Asians and to compare the results with that in Europeans.

Methods

A Jamar dynamometer (Asimow Engineering®) and Pinch Gauge (B & L Engineering®) were used for measuring the grip and pinch strengths, respectively, in pounds. American Society of Hand Therapist's recommendations for standard hand positioning for the tests were followed. Subjects were healthy adults divided into five age groups of 10-year intervals. The height and weight of all subjects were also recorded.

Results

There were 105 Asians and 103 Europeans. The mean GS in Asians were 92.8 lbs (right) and 89.3 lbs (left) in men and 53 lbs (right) and 51.3 lbs (left) in women, respectively. The key pinch strength and tip pinch strength were 22 and 15.3 lbs in men and 15 and 10.3 lbs in women, respectively. The GS was higher in Europeans than in Asians. However, the pinch strength was higher only in European women and not in both sexes. GS has a direct relationship with height and weight but not with body mass index.

Conclusions

This study shows that the normal values for grip and pinch strengths are lower for Asian as compared with European groups. The published data for Europeans should not be used as the reference standard for Asian populations.
Efficacy of Handwriting for Heroes, a novel hand dominance transfer intervention
Authors: Yancosek Kathleen E , Calderhead William J
Published: February 2012

Introduction

Handwriting For Heroes is a six-week hand dominance transfer intervention for adults who sustain injuries that result in permanent loss of dominant hand function. While used in military treatment facilities, the efficacy of this intervention has not been established. The purpose of this study was to examine the efficacy of Handwriting For Heroes.

Methods

A single-subject research design was utilized with replication across five non-impaired right-hand dominant participants ( N = 5). A leftward transfer of hand dominance for handwriting skill was simulated utilizing Handwriting For Heroes. Multiple probes were taken across baseline, intervention and maintenance phases to measure performance during five functional handwriting tasks. Visual and statistical analysis was performed on variables related to the writing process (pressure, velocity, time and displacement) and the written product (letters-per-minute and legibility).

Results

All participants improved one grade-level in writing speed. Four of five participants improved in handwriting legibility. Following the intervention, participants achieved greater than 50% of their dominant hand's writing ability.

Discussion

Handwriting is a functional task that was shown to be transferable to the non-dominant limb using a commercially available, six-week intervention. Positive results, replicated across five non-impaired participants during this efficacy study, warrant a clinical effectiveness study.
Synthesis of 5′ cap-0 and cap-1 RNAs using solid-phase chemistry coupled with enzymatic methylation by human (guanine-N7)-methyl transferase
Authors: Thillier Yann , Decroly Etienne , Morvan François , Canard Bruno , Vasseur Jean-Jacques , Debart Françoise
Published: February 2012

The 5′ end of eukaryotic mRNA carries a N7-methylguanosine residue linked by a 5′-5′ triphosphate bond. This cap moiety (7mGpppN) is an essential RNA structural modification allowing its efficient translation, limiting its degradation by cellular 5′ exonucleases and avoiding its recognition as “nonself” by the innate immunity machinery. In vitro synthesis of capped RNA is an important bottleneck for many biological studies. Moreover, the lack of methods allowing the synthesis of large amounts of RNA starting with a specific 5′-end sequence have hampered biological and structural studies of proteins recognizing the cap structure or involved in the capping pathway. Due to the chemical nature of N7-methylguanosine, the synthesis of RNAs possessing a cap structure at the 5′ end is still a significant challenge. In the present work, we combined a chemical synthesis method and an enzymatic methylation assay in order to produce large amounts of RNA oligonucleotides carrying a cap-0 or cap-1. Short RNAs were synthesized on solid support by the phosphoramidite 2′-O-pivaloyloxymethyl chemistry. The cap structure was then coupled by the addition of GDP after phosphorylation of the terminal 5′-OH and activation by imidazole. After deprotection and release from the support, GpppN-RNAs or GpppN2′-Om-RNAs were purified before the N7-methyl group was added by enzymatic means using the human (guanine-N7)-methyl transferase to yield 7mGpppN-RNAs (cap-0) or 7mGpppN2′-Om-RNAs (cap-1). The RNAs carrying different cap structures (cap, cap-0 or, cap-1) act as bona fide substrates mimicking cellular capped RNAs and can be used for biochemical and structural studies.
Immunophenotypic Stability of Sézary Cells by Flow Cytometry
Authors: Vaughan James , Harrington Alexandra M. , Hari Parameswaran N. , Kroft Steven H. , Olteanu Horatiu
Published: February 2012

Flow cytometry (FC) is frequently used to detect aberrant peripheral blood (PB) T cells (“Sézary cells”) in patients with mycosis fungoides (MF) and Sézary syndrome (SS). However, immunophenotypic stability of MF/SS over time is not well characterized.

We analyzed 141 PB samples from 9 cases (2 SS, 7 MF). At diagnosis, there were 3 to 5 immunophenotypic aberrancies per case (median, 4), including dim or absent CD2, CD3, CD4, CD5, CD7, or CD26 and bright CD45RO. Of 9 patients, 7 had a subsequent change in immunophenotype. All patients retained multiple aberrancies at follow-up (median, 3 per analysis; range, 2–6), of which 22.0% (81/369) were new. In 5 patients, a more than 99% decrease in absolute Sézary cell (ASC) counts by FC after alemtuzumab therapy or total skin electron beam radiation was associated with clinical improvement.

We observed minor immunophenotypic changes over time in most patients with MF/SS; however, the Sézary clones maintain persistently aberrant immunophenotypes and seem amenable to follow-up with limited FC panels. ASC counts by FC correlated well with clinical response.
Molecular and Clinicopathologic Characterization of AML With Isolated Trisomy 4
Authors: Bains Ashish , Lu Gary , Yao Hui , Luthra Rajalakshmi , Medeiros L. Jeffrey , Sargent Rachel L.
Published: February 2012

Acute myeloid leukemia (AML) with isolated trisomy 4 is rare. Associations with KIT mutations on chromosome 4q12 have been documented. The clinicopathologic features and mutational status of KIT, FLT3, NPM1, CEBPA, and RAS were assessed in 13 AML cases with isolated trisomy 4. There were 9 men and 4 women with a median age of 54 years. Median blast count was 84% (range, 24%–93%). Morphologic features varied across five 2008 World Health Organization categories. FLT3 (5/10) and NPM1 (4/10) mutations were observed at a frequency similar to normal-karyotype AML cases. KIT D816V (1/10), RAS (1/11; NRAS), and CEBPA (0/9) mutations were rare or absent. In 11 of 13 cases, complete remission was achieved. In 8 cases, relapse occurred, with median relapse-free survival of 11 months. Median overall survival was 28 months. AML with isolated trisomy 4 is rare and associated with high bone marrow blast counts and an intermediate to poor prognosis. KIT mutations are uncommon.
Immunophenotypic Analysis of Myeloperoxidase-Negative Leukemia Cutis and Blastic Plasmacytoid Dendritic Cell Neoplasm
Authors: Cronin Danielle M.P. , George Tracy I. , Reichard Kaaren K. , Sundram Uma N.
Published: February 2012

Myeloid leukemia cutis (LC) and blastic plasmacytoid dendritic cell neoplasm (BPDCN) are morphologically indistinguishable malignancies that frequently manifest in the skin. Separating myeloperoxidase-negative LC from BPDCN may be particularly challenging. We identified a panel of immunohistochemical stains to distinguish myeloid LC (23 cases) from BPDCN (12 cases): myeloperoxidase, which stained 7 cases (30%) of LC and 0 cases (0%) of BPDCN; CD56, which stained 12 cases (52%) of LC and all 12 cases (100%) of BPDCN; CD4, which stained 2 cases (9%) of LC and all 12 cases (100%) of BPDCN; CD123, which stained 4 cases (17%) of LC and 10 cases (83%) of BPDCN; and Tcl-1, which stained 2 cases (9%) of LC and 9 (82%) of 11 cases of BPDCN. It is interesting that CD33 was not helpful; it stained 18 (78%) cases of LC and 11 cases (92%) of BPDCN. Our results indicate that a panel that includes CD4, CD56, CD123, and Tcl-1 can appropriately distinguish between these 2 entities.
Correlation of Histopathologic/Cytologic Follow-up Findings With Vaginal ASC-US and ASC-H Papanicolaou Test and HPV Test Results
Authors: Bansal Mona , Li Zaibo , Zhao Chengquan
Published: February 2012

Current American Society of Colposcopy and Cervical Pathology recommendations about human papillomavirus (HPV) triage and further management for atypical squamous cells are pertinent to cervical Papanicolaou (Pap) tests. There are limited data on HPV detection in vaginal liquid-based cytology (LBC) specimens. The aims of this study were to determine whether adjunctive high-risk (HR)-HPV testing is useful for disease risk assessment in women with vaginal atypical squamous cells of undetermined significance (ASC-US) and atypical squamous cells, cannot exclude HSIL (ASC-H) Pap results. We identified 1,125 ASC-US and 36 ASC-H vaginal Pap results with HR-HPV testing. Of the cases, 244 (21.7%) ASC-US and 21 (58%) ASC-H were HR-HPV+. Among ASC-US HR-HPV+ cases, 47.8% had a squamous intraepithelial lesion (SIL) compared with 4.7% of HR-HPV– cases. Among ASC-H HR-HPV+ cases, 75% (12/16) had SIL compared with 31% (4/13) in HR-HPV– cases. Our results indicate that HPV triage testing is a reasonable and cost-effective approach for women with ASC-US vaginal Pap results and also a useful option for women with ASC-H vaginal Pap results.
Validation of a Postfixation Tissue Storage and Transport Medium to Preserve Histopathology and Molecular Pathology Analyses (Total and Phosphoactivated Proteins, and FISH)
Authors: Stumm Michael M. , Walker Maja R. , Stork Caroline , Hanoteau Noelle , Wagner Urs , O’Reilly Terence M.
Published: February 2012

Tumor biomarker studies are integral to oncology clinical trials but may yield artifactual results owing to variation in sample procurement and processing. Ethanol, 70% vol/vol, was validated as a sample transport medium using markers of the PI3K/Akt/mTOR pathway. BT474 tumor xenografts were excised and slices were immediately placed into formaldehyde and fixed for 24 hours. Fixed tissue slices were immediately processed into paraffin or transferred to 70% vol/vol ethanol and stored at room temperature for 1, 2, and 4 weeks before further processing. Freshly cut tissue sections were evaluated for pAKTS473, HER2, pHER-2Y1248, pS6S235/236, and pS6S240/244, Ki-67, and HER2 by fluorescence in situ hybridization and stained with H&E and Masson trichrome. No significant changes were observed when comparing samples stored in 70% ethanol for up to 4 weeks with immediately processed tissue. Ethanol, 70% vol/vol, provides a safe storage medium for formaldehyde-fixed tumor tissue, facilitating sample transport during multicenter clinical trials.
Studies toward the total synthesis of naturally occurring pyranonaphthoquinones from Ventilago harmandiana
Authors: Kongsriprapan Sopanat , Kuhakarn Chutima , Deelertpaiboon Pramchai , Panthong Kanda , Tuchinda Patoomratana , Pohmakotr Manat , Reutrakul Vichai
Published: February 2012

The enantioselective synthesis of a naturally occurring pyranonaphthoquinone isolated from a Thai endemic plant, Ventilago harmandiana, has been achieved. L-Rhamnose and gallic acid were used as the starting materials. A new C-1-glycosidation of L-rhamnal with trimethyl aluminum in the presence of a catalytic amount of ytterbium(III) triflate was developed. A new reagent, PhSCF2H/SnCl4, for the formylation of partially deactivated and hindered aromatic compounds has been introduced. Phenylthiophthalide was used efficiently as a cycloannulating agent in the Hauser cycloannulation reaction, employing slightly excess lithium t-butoxide as a base with a catalytic amount of lithium chloride. The synthetic route developed is applicable for the synthesis of other analogues with substituents at the aromatic and pyran rings.
Bowl-to-bowl inversion of sumanene derivatives
Authors: Amaya Toru , Hirao Toshikazu
Published: February 2012

Bowl-to-bowl inversion is one of the characteristic behaviors for some flexible open-end molecular bowls consisting of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons with benzene rings fused by imbedded five-membered rings (π bowls). This intriguing dynamics was studied with sumanene, which is the smallest C3v symmetric fragment of fullerenes. In this article, our ongoing research on the bowl-to-bowl inversion of sumanene, its benzylic anion species, hexasubstituted derivatives, mononaphthosumanene, and [CpRu(η6-sumenene)]+ complex is summarized. Estimation based on density functional theory (DFT) calculation is also described.
Environmentally friendly approaches to the synthesis of new antibiotics from sugars
Authors: Xavier Nuno M. , Rauter Amélia P.
Published: February 2012

In light of the biological importance of carbohydrates and their role when present in antibiotic agents, the design and synthesis of carbohydrate-based antibiotics has occupied a prominent place in drug discovery. This review focuses on synthetic carbohydrate antimicrobial agents, giving special emphasis to novel structures easily accessible from readily available carbohydrate precursors.
Adding Bricks to Clicks: Predicting the Patterns of Cross-Channel Elasticities over Time
Authors: Avery Jill , Steenburgh Thomas J. , Deighton John , Caravella Mary
Published: February 2012

The authors propose a conceptual framework to explain whether and when the introduction of a new retail store channel helps or hurts sales in existing direct channels. A conceptual framework separates short- and long-term effects by analyzing the capabilities of a channel that help consumers accomplish their shopping goals. To test the theory, the authors analyze a unique data set from a high-end retailer using matching methods. The authors study the introduction of a retail store and find evidence of cross-channel cannibalization and synergy. The presence of a retail store decreases sales in the catalog but not the Internet channel in the short run but increases sales in both direct channels over time. Following the opening of the store, more first-time customers begin purchasing in the direct channels. These results suggest that adding a retail store to direct channels yields different results from adding an Internet channel to a retail store channel, as previous research has indicated.
Structure of Dislocations and Mechanical Properties of B2 Alloys
Authors: Paidar V. , Vitek V.
Published: February 2012

Adequate mechanical properties are important for both structural and functional applications of materials. There are significant differences in mechanical behaviour of different B2 ordered alloys and these are related to the properties of superlattice dislocations. Several types of dislocations can be activated, in particular <111> and <001> dislocations gliding on {110} planes. Their mobility can vary markedly from material to material and this has a strong impact on the mechanical properties. With the aim to elucidate qualitatively the differences between different alloys crystallising in the same B2 structure we analyse possible dislocation dissociations. The model employed is based on the isotropic elasticity but includes an important characteristic of stacking-fault-like defects involved in the splittings, the deviation of their displacements away from the usually assumed ½<111> APB.
Exploring the Synthesis Parameters and Spark Plasma Sintering of Tantalum Carbide Powders Prepared by Solvothermal Synthesis
Authors: Clark Braeden M. , Kelly James P. , Graeve Olivia A.
Published: February 2012

Tantalum carbide is a technologically important material for use in ultra-high temperatures and corrosive environments. In this report, we describe the scalability of a low temperature solvothermal method for the preparation of this useful material. X-ray diffraction shows phase-pure powders with no change in average crystallite size or compound stoichiometry compared to synthesis in smaller batches, remaining at 25 nm and 0.94 respectively. Dynamic light scattering shows a slight decrease in particle size distribution with scale-up. Thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) in air shows a decrease in surface species on the powders, but the powders oxidize at a lower temperature when scaling the synthesis. Mass spectrometry performed alongside TGA in a helium atmosphere reveals that water is the most abundant species on the surface of the powders, but oxygen, carbon monoxide, carbon dioxide, and nitrogen are also detected. Oxygen analysis reveals that the oxygen content of the powders is high (>6%). The oxygen source and methods of decreasing oxygen content are discussed. Initial sintering trials were performed and demonstrate the need for further powder processing.
Thermal Behavior of Celsian Ceramics Synthesized from Coal Fly Ash
Authors: López-Cuevas Jorge , Long-González David , Gutiérrez-Chavarría Carlos A.
Published: February 2012

Celsian with a chemical composition of Ba0.75Sr0.25Al2Si2O8, is synthesized by using coal fly ash (byproduct of a Mexican coal-burning power plant, composed mainly by SiO2and Al2O3) as main raw material. The thermal behavior of the synthesized material is evaluated by differential (DTA) and gravimetric (TGA) thermal analyses as well as by heating microscopy; its coefficient of linear thermal expansion (CTE) is also determined. Heating microscopy shows that cylinders of compacted powdered Celsian start sintering at ∼1140 ºC, which is associated with a considerable contraction occurring up to 1500 ºC. The mean CTE value of the material in the temperature range of 30-1100ºC is slightly affected by the synthesis conditions employed. Synthesis at 1400 or 1300 ºC during 10 h, with a pre-calcination step at 900 ºC/5h in both cases, produce mean CTE values of 5.15 x 10-6and 5.43 x 10-6ºC-1, respectively. On the other hand, Celsian synthesized at 1400 ºC/10 h, without the pre-calcination step, has a mean CTE value of 5.25 x 10-6ºC-1. Lastly, the DTA/TGA analysis of the synthesized material shows that a slight weight gain takes place from room temperature to 1100ºC, which is followed by a slight weight loss up to 1300ºC. This is attributed to oxidation and evaporation of some of the impurities present in the material.
Effect of Milling Time on the Physical and Mechanical Properties of Celsian-Mullite Composites Synthesized from Coal Fly Ash
Authors: López-Cuevas Jorge , Long-González David , Gutiérrez-Chavarría Carlos A.
Published: February 2012

Four Celsian (Ba0.75Sr0.25Al2Si2O8)/Mullite (Al6Si2O13) composites, with potential structural applications at high temperatures, are synthesized from coal fly ash (byproduct of a Mexican coal-burning power plant, constituted mainly by SiO2and Al2O3). Nominal Celsian/Mullite weight ratios studied are 80/20, 60/40, 40/60 and 20/80. Mullite is synthesized separately at 1600ºC/2h and then mixed with a Celsian precursor mixture previously calcined at 900°C/5h. During this process the Celsian phase is formed by a solid state reaction at 1100-1400ºC/5h. Prior to this, the reacting mixture is milled in a planetary mill during 1 or 2h and then compacted by uniaxial and cold isostatic pressing. The microstructure and phase composition of the synthesized composites are characterized by X-Ray Diffraction (XRD) and Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM/EDS). Their dynamic Young’s modulus is measured by an ultrasonic technique, and their mechanical strength is evaluated from flexural tests carried out at room temperature. The expected phases are obtained in all cases, although with some differences with respect to their expected relative proportions, according to the studied nominal compositions. In general, the longest milling time employed produced samples with the largest degree of crystallinity and density, as well as with the best microstructural characteristics and mechanical properties.
Physical, Petrographic, and Mineralogical Properties of Limestone Rocks from the Peninsula of Yucatán
Authors: May-Crespo J. , Quintana P. , Alvarado-Gil J. J. , Juárez de la Rosa B. A. , May-Pat A. , Avilés F.
Published: February 2012

Knowledge of the mechanical and petrographic properties of limestone rocks is an important issue to different areas of science and engineering. Sedimentary limestone rock is one of the most abundant materials in the Peninsula of Yucatán used for decorative and building construction. This work studies the petrographic, mineralogical, and physical properties of three different types of limestone slabs of the state of Yucatán.
Effect of Gradual Substitution of CaO by SrO in Glass-Ceramic Materials of the System SiO2 - Al2O3 - CaF2 - RO (R = Ca, Mg, Sr)
Authors: Garza-García M. , López-Cuevas J. , Gutiérrez-Chavarría C.A. , Piedad-Sánchez N. , Camporredondo-Saucedo E. , Hernández-Ibarra O.
Published: February 2012

The density, Vickers microhardness and crystallization fraction of glass-ceramic materials synthesized from parent glasses are determined in which CaO is gradually substituted by SrO. The chemical composition (in mol.%) of the parent glasses is 54SiO2-(23-X)CaO-12MgO-5Al2O3-6CaF2-XSrO, where X is the employed CaO substitution level (X = 0, 3, 6 and 9 mol.%, with X = 0 corresponding to the reference material). In order to determine the type of crystallization occurring in the glass-ceramic samples, as well as the crystalline phases formed in them, these are characterized by both Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM/EDS) and X-Ray Diffraction (XRD). Independently of the CaO substitution level employed, the glass-ceramics show the formation of a solid solution corresponding to diopside-type pyroxene, with chemical formula Ca(Mg,Al)(Al,Si)2O6, as a single crystalline phase. The synthesized glass-ceramic materials with the reference composition show the highest Vickers microhardness and crystallization fraction, as well as the lowest density.
Mechanical properties and microstructure of low carbon ultra-high strength steels (UHSS) microalloyed with boron
Authors: Mejía I. , García de la Rosa A. , Bedolla-Jacuinde A. , Cabrera J.M.
Published: February 2012

The aim of this research work is to study the effect of boron addition on mechanical properties and microstructure of a new family of low carbon NiCrVCu advanced high strength steels (AHSS). Experimental steels are thermo-mechanically processed (TMP) (hot-rolled+quenched). Results show that the microstructure of these steels contains bainite and martensite, predominantly, which nucleate along prior austenite grain boundaries (GB). On the other hand, tensile tests reveal that the TMP steels have YS (0.2% offset) of 978 MPa, UTS of 1140 MPa and EL of 18%. On the basis of exhibited microstructure and mechanical properties, these experimental steels are classified as bainitic-martensitic complex phase (CP) advanced ultra-high strength steels (UHSS).
Effect of Hydrogen on Mechanical Properties of Aluminum AA 6061 Alloy Hardened by Precipitation
Authors: Doñu Ruiz M. A. , Cortés Suárez V. J. , López Perrusquia N. , Rosado Cruz L. D. , Valencia Jara F. de J. , Altamirano Torres A.
Published: February 2012

The present work reports on the effect of hydrogen on mechanical properties of aluminum AA 6061 hardened by precipitation. Test specimens are solution treated in an electric induction furnace at 803 K during 1 hour and then precipitation hardened during 4 hours at 423, 448 and 473 K. The heat treated specimens are subjected to a hydrogen cathodic charging process during 0, 24 and 96 hours and then tested under monotonic uniaxial tensile loading according to ASTM E8-03. Scanning electron microscopy characterization of tensile fracture surfaces reveals that hydrogen charging of precipitation hardened specimens enhances intergranular cracking by microvoid coalescence and intragranular cleavage fracture. The results show that, although hydrogen charging causes embrittlement of precipitation hardened aluminum AA 6061, the effect is a function of time; short time cathodic charging increases the ductility of the alloy.
Rotating Bending Fatigue Endurance and Effect of Controlled Corrosion on the AISI-SAE 6063-T5 Aluminum Alloy.
Authors: Domínguez Almaraz G. M. , Ávila Ambriz J. L. , Cadenas Calderón E. , Villalón López J. J.
Published: February 2012

Rotating bending fatigue test are carried out on the aluminum alloy 6063-T5 for corroded and non corroded specimens. Special attention is devoted to fatigue endurance reduction caused by controlled surface corrosion on corroded specimens. Corrosion attack is implemented by submersion of specimens in an acid solution for: two, four and six minutes in order to induce three degrees of surface corrosion. The corrosion agent is a solution of hydrochloric acid with a PH close to 0.8 and solution concentration of 38%. Rotating bending fatigue tests at frequency of 50 Hz, room temperature and without environmental humidity control are carried out on 4 types of specimens: without corrosion and 2, 4, and 6 minutes immersed in the solution of hydrochloric acid. Results are analyzed regarding the corrosion effect on fatigue endurance and conclusion are enlisted concerning rotating bending fatigue tests and corrosion attack on this aluminum alloy.
Germinação e qualidade de sementes de Adenostemma brasilianum (pers.) cass., Asteraceae nativa de sub-bosque de Floresta Atlântica
Authors: Godinho Mariana Aparecida Silva , Mantovani-Alvarenga Eveline , Vieira Milene Faria
Published: February 2012

Foram objetivos deste estudo analisar o comportamento germinativo das sementes de Adenostemma brasilianum oriundas de população natural, avaliar sua qualidade física e verificar o seu tempo de embebição. Sementes foram coletadas em indivíduos de um fragmento de Floresta Estacional Semidecídua em Viçosa, Zona da Mata mineira, Sudeste brasileiro. Para avaliação da qualidade física, sementes recém-colhidas (zero mês) foram classificadas como perfeitas (escuras com embrião) ou imperfeitas (escuras ou claras, sem embrião). Amostras de 50 sementes recém-colhidas foram colocadas para germinar em três temperaturas (20, 25 e 30 °C) e em três condições de luminosidade: com suplementação de luz (SUP), luz ambiente (AMB) e escuro contínuo (ESC). A germinação de sementes armazenadas por dois, quatro e seis meses foi testada utilizando-se metodologia idêntica. Sementes armazenadas por 12 e 18 meses foram colocadas para germinar a 25 ºC SUP. A dormência e a embebição foram testadas, respectivamente, com solução de tetrazólio e azul de metileno. Foram registradas 74,7% de sementes fisicamente perfeitas, e observou-se a partenocarpia (10%). As sementes iniciaram a germinação ao oitavo dia após a semeadura. Os fatores luz, temperatura e armazenamento agiram sinergeticamente sobre a germinação das sementes. As maiores porcentagens médias de germinação foram observadas nas sementes recém-colhidas e submetidas às temperaturas de 25 e 30 ºC SUP, 85,5 e 88,5%, respectivamente. A dormência das sementes foi constatada em baixa temperatura (20 ºC), independentemente do tratamento de luz. O armazenamento aumentou a mortalidade e a quebra da dormência; aos 12 meses, a germinação foi nula. A absorção de água pela semente ocorreu 24 h após a sua imersão em solução de azul de metileno.
Competitividade do palmito de pupunha no Brasil em diferentes sistemas de produção
Authors: Soares Naisy Silva , Sousa Eliane Pinheiro de , Cordeiro Sidney Araujo , Silva Márcio Lopes da
Published: February 2012

Neste artigo, buscou analisar a competitividade da produção de palmito de pupunha no Brasil, fazendo estudo comparativo entre o sistema produtivo praticado em áreas motomecanizáveis com irrigação e em áreas não motomecanizáveis sem irrigação. Para atingir esse objetivo, empregou-se a matriz de análise política (MAP). Os resultados indicaram que esses dois sistemas de produção considerados tiveram rentabilidade positiva nos mercados interno e externo, evidenciando que a produção de palmito de pupunha é competitiva, porém os lucros foram reduzidos em razão das políticas públicas adotadas.
Contribuição dos créditos de carbono na viabilidade econômica dos contratos de fomento florestal no sul da Bahia
Authors: Valdetaro Erlon Barbosa , Silva Fabiano Luiz da , Ribeiro Sabina Cerruto , Jacovine Laercio Antônio Gonçalves
Published: February 2012

A região do extremo sul da Bahia é caracterizada por sua extensa produção de eucalipto. Grandes empresas do setor de celulose e papel desempenham importante função na economia da região através dos programas de fomento florestal. Além disso, tem-se que alguns produtores fomentados por essas empresas possuem interesse em incrementar o retorno financeiro de seus contratos de fomento florestal através do recebimento de crédito de carbono. Nesse contexto, este trabalho teve como objetivo avaliar a contribuição dos créditos de carbono na viabilidade econômica nos contratos de fomento florestal da região. O Valor Presente Líquido (VPL), a Taxa Interna de Retorno (TIR) e o Valor Anual Equivalente (VAE) foram os indicadores utilizados na avaliação financeira, a uma taxa de desconto de 10% ao ano, em 45 contratos de fomento distribuídos em 11 municípios da região, e estimou-se o potencial de estocagem de carbono utilizando dados de estoque de carbono do momento em que os contratos atingiram a idade técnica de corte. Os produtores florestais informaram dados referentes à produção, produtividade e rentabilidade do plantio de eucalipto em seus contratos de fomento. Os resultados da pesquisa mostram que a comercialização dos créditos de carbono pode aumentar consideravelmente a viabilidade financeira do contrato de fomento. Dessa forma, pode-se concluir que o comércio de créditos de carbono é uma atividade viável na região e aumentará os ganhos dos produtores fomentados.
Renal cortex copper concentration in acute copper poisoning in calves
Authors: Fazzio Luis E. , Mattioli Guillermo A. , Costa Enrique F. , Picco Sebastian J. , Rosa Diana E. , Testa Juan A. , Gimeno Eduardo J.
Published: February 2012

The aim of this study was to estimate the diagnostic value of renal cortex copper (Cu) concentration in clinical cases of acute copper poisoning (ACP). A total of 97 calves that died due to subcutaneous copper administration were compiled in eleven farms. At least, one necropsy was conducted on each farm and samples for complementary analysis were taken. The degree of autolysis in each necropsy was evaluated. The cases appeared on extensive grazing calf breeding and intensive feedlot farms, in calves of 60 to 200 kg body weight. Mortality varied from 0.86 to 6.96 %, on the farms studied. The first succumbed calf was found on the farms between 6 and 72 hours after the susbcutaneous Cu administration. As discrepancies regarding the reference value arose, the local value (19.9 parts per million) was used, confirming the diagnosis of acute copper poisoning in 93% of the analyzed kidney samples. These results confirm the value of analysis of the cortical kidney Cu concentration for the diagnosis of acute copper poisoning.
Abortos em equinos na região sul do Rio Grande do Sul: estudo de 72 casos
Authors: Marcolongo-Pereira Clairton , Adrien Maria de Lourdes , Ladeira Silvia R.L. , Soares Mauro P. , Assis-Brasil Nathalia D. , Schild Ana Lucia
Published: February 2012

Foi realizado um estudo retrospectivo das causas de aborto ocorridas em equinos na área de influência do Laboratório Regional de Diagnóstico (LRD), da Faculdade de Veterinária da Universidade Federal de Pelotas (UFPel), no período entre janeiro de 2000 e junho de 2011. Foram revisados os protocolos de necropsia e de 1.154 equinos ou materiais de equinos recebidos 72 (6,2%) eram casos de abortos. A infecção bacteriana foi a principal causa de aborto neste estudo com 36,1% dos casos. As causas não infecciosas corresponderam a 8,3% dos casos, os abortos virais a 4,2%, os parasitários a 1,4% e os inflamatórios a 2,8%. Em 47,2% dos casos não foi possível determinar a causa/etiologia do aborto. Lesões macroscópicas e histológicas características foram observadas em casos de aborto por Leptospira sp. e por herpesvirus equino-1 sendo que nos demais casos as lesões foram inespecíficas. Ficou demonstrado que o envio do feto inteiro junto com a placenta, sob refrigeração, aumenta consideravelmente a eficiência do diagnóstico e o elevado número de abortos de causa não determinada foi atribuído em parte ao envio de material não adequado.