bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Association of adipocyte genes with ASP expression: a microarray analysis of subcutaneous and omental adipose tissue in morbidly obese subjects
Authors: MacLaren Robin E , Cui Wei , Lu HuiLing , Simard Serge , Cianflone Katherine 
Published: January 2010

Abstract

Background
Prevalence of obesity is increasing to pandemic proportions. However, obese subjects differ in insulin resistance, adipokine production and co-morbidities. Based on fasting plasma analysis, obese subjects were grouped as Low Acylation Stimulating protein (ASP) and Triglyceride (TG) (LAT) vs High ASP and TG (HAT). Subcutaneous (SC) and omental (OM) adipose tissues (n = 21) were analysed by microarray, and biologic pathways in lipid metabolism and inflammation were specifically examined.

Methods
LAT and HAT groups were matched in age, obesity, insulin, and glucose, and had similar expression of insulin-related genes (InsR, IRS-1). ASP related genes tended to be increased in the HAT group and were correlated (factor B, adipsin, complement C3, p < 0.01 each). Differences between LAT and HAT group were almost exclusively in SC tissue, with little difference in OM tissue. Increased C5L2 (p < 0.01), an ASP receptor, in HAT suggests a compensatory ASP pathway, associated with increased TG storage.

Results
HAT adipose tissue demonstrated increased lipid related genes for storage (CD36, DGAT1, DGAT2, SCD1, FASN, and LPL), lipolysis (HSL, CES1, perilipin), fatty acid binding proteins (FABP1, FABP3) and adipocyte differentiation markers (CEBPα, CEBPβ, PPARγ). By contrast, oxidation related genes were decreased (AMPK, UCP1, CPT1, FABP7). HAT subjects had increased anti-inflammatory genes TGFB1, TIMP1, TIMP3, and TIMP4 while proinflammatory PIG7 and MMP2 were also significantly increased; all genes, p < 0.025.

Conclusion
Taken together, the profile of C5L2 receptor, ASP gene expression and metabolic factors in adipose tissue from morbidly obese HAT subjects suggests a compensatory response associated with the increased plasma ASP and TG.
Expression of interleukin-1 (IL-1) ligands system in the most common endometriosis-associated ovarian cancer subtypes
Authors: Keita Mamadou , Bessette Paul , Pelmus Manuella , Ainmelk Youssef , Aris Aziz 
Published: January 2010

Abstract

Objectives
Endometrioid carcinoma of the ovary is one of the most types of epithelial ovarian cancer associated to endometrioisis. Endometrioid tumors as well as endometriotic implants are characterized by the presence of epithelial cells, stromal cells, or a combination of booth, that resemble the endometrial cells, suggesting a possible endometrial origin of these tumors. Pro-inflammatory cytokines, including interleukin-1 (IL-1) have been reported to be involved in both endometriosis and ovarian carcinogenesis. The major objective of this study was to determine the level expression of IL-1 ligands system (IL-1α, IL-1β and IL-1RA) in the most common subtypes of ovarian cancer cells compared to endometrial cells.

Methods
We used primary endometrial cells, endometrial cell line RL-952 and different subtypes of epithelial ovarian cancer cell lines including TOV-112D (endometrioid), TOV-21G (clear cell) and OV-90 (serous). Immunofluorescence and real-time PCR analysis were used respectively for detecting IL-1 ligands at the levels of cell-associated protein and mRNA. Soluble IL-1 ligands were analyzed by ELISA.

Results
We demonstrated that IL-1 ligands were expressed by all endometriosis-associated ovarian cancer subtypes and endometrial cells. In contrast to other cancer ovarian cells, endometrioid cells exhibit a specific decrease of cell-associated IL-1RA expression and its soluble secretion.

Conclusion
Endometrioid ovarian cancer exhibits an alteration in the expression of IL-1RA, a key protector against tumorogenic effects of IL-1. This alteration evokes the same alteration observed in endometriotic cells in previous studies. This suggests a possible link between the endometrium, the tissue ectopic endometriosis and endometrioid ovarian cancer.
Characterization of X-Linked SNP genotypic variation in globally distributed human populations
Authors: Casto Amanda M , Li Jun Z , Absher Devin , Myers Richard , Ramachandran Sohini , Feldman Marcus W 
Published: January 2010

Abstract
Background
The transmission pattern of the human X chromosome reduces its population size relative to the autosomes, subjects it to disproportionate influence by female demography, and leaves X-linked mutations exposed to selection in males. As a result, the analysis of X-linked genomic variation can provide insights into the influence of demography and selection on the human genome. Here we characterize the genomic variation represented by 16,297 X-linked SNPs genotyped in the CEPH human genome diversity project samples.

Results
We found that X chromosomes tend to be more differentiated between human populations than autosomes, with several notable exceptions. Comparisons between genetically distant populations also showed an excess of X-linked SNPs with large allele frequency differences. Combining information about these SNPs with results from tests designed to detect selective sweeps, we identified two regions that were clear outliers from the rest of the X chromosome for haplotype structure and allele frequency distribution. We were also able to more precisely define the geographical extent of some previously described X-linked selective sweeps.

Conclusions
The relationship between male and female demographic histories is likely to be complex as evidence supporting different conclusions can be found in the same dataset. Although demography may have contributed to the excess of SNPs with large allele frequency differences observed on the X chromosome, we believe that selection is at least partially responsible. Finally, our results reveal the geographical complexities of selective sweeps on the X chromosome and argue for the use of diverse populations in studies of selection.
Inactivation of sestrin 2 induces TGF-β signaling and partially rescues pulmonary emphysema in a mouse model of COPD
Authors: Wempe Frank , De-Zolt Silke , Koli Katri , Bangsow Thorsten , Parajuli Nirmal , Dumitrascu Rio , Sterner-Kock Anja , Weissmann Norbert , Keski-Oja Jorma , von Melchner Harald 
Published: January 2010

SUMMARY
Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a leading cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide. Cigarette smoking has been identified as one of the major risk factors and several predisposing genetic factors have been implicated in the pathogenesis of COPD, including a single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) in the latent transforming growth factor (TGF)-β binding protein 4 (Ltbp4)-encoding gene. Consistent with this finding, mice with a null mutation of the short splice variant of Ltbp4 (Ltbp4S) develop pulmonary emphysema that is reminiscent of COPD. Here, we report that the mutational inactivation of the antioxidant protein sestrin 2 (sesn2) partially rescues the emphysema phenotype of Ltbp4S mice and is associated with activation of the TGF-β and mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) signal transduction pathways. The results suggest that sesn2 could be clinically relevant to patients with COPD who might benefit from antagonists of sestrin function.
Memory Loss Property for Products of Random Matrices in the Max-Plus Algebra
Authors: Merlet Glenn 
Published: January 2010

Products of random matrices in the max-plus algebra are used as models of a wide range of discrete event systems, including train or queueing networks, job shops, timed digital circuits, or parallel processing systems. Several mathematical models such as timed event graph or task-resources models also lead to max-plus products of matrices. Some stability and computability results, such as convergence of waiting times to a unique stationary regime or limit theorems for the throughput, have been proved under the so-called memory loss property (MLP). When the random matrices are i.i.d., we prove that this property is generic in the following sense: if it is not fulfilled, the support of the common law of the random matrices is included in a union of finitely many affine hyperplanes.
A web-based tool for adjusting costs to a specific target currency and price year
Authors: Shemilt Ian , James Thomas , Marcello Morciano 
Published: January 2010

Objective:
To develop a web-based tool to automate the adjustment of estimates of costs drawn from previously published or unpublished studies to a specified target currency and price year.

Methods:
A web-based tool was programmed using C#, utilising GDP deflator index values and Purchasing Power Parities conversion rates produced by the International Monetary Fund and the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development.

Results:
Version 1.0 is available at http://eppi.ioe.ac.uk/costconversion/default.aspx

Conclusions:
The tool can be used as a first-line approach to cost adjustment in non-healthcare applications and as an optional approach in healthcare applications when use of more sophisticated methods is not feasible.
Compressive Strength of Small Concrete Specimens Confined with Fiberglass Laminates
Authors: Larralde J 
Published: January 2010

Abstract
Portland cement concrete, like most granular materials, exhibits an increase in compressive strength when subjected to confinement. This characteristic is advantageously used in the design of reinforced concrete columns, for instance, in which the load capacity is considerably increased when the column is properly confined with stirr-ups or spiral reinforcement. Recently, exterior reinforcement in the form of fiberglass composite wrapping has been used to retrofit or repair concrete columns. Wrapping with fiberglass composites increases the capacity of columns to withstand axial as well as eccentric loading. This paper presents comparative test results of small concrete specimens subjected to axial loading and tested under unconfined conditions and confined conditions produced by fiberglass composite wrapping. The test results show a considerable increase in the compressive strength and an increase in the toughness in the fiberglass confined specimens.
Durability Findings from Case Studies of Marine Concrete Structures
Authors: Mackechnie JR , Alexander MG 
Published: January 2010

Abstract
The marine environment provides a severe durability test for reinforced concrete structures and deterioration may occur rapidly unless structures are correctly designed and built. Existing specifications for concrete do not appear to be effective in ensuring satisfactory durability performance in the marine environment and many structures require repairs during their design lives. From a survey of over 20 marine concrete structures along the Cape coast of South Africa, a number of observations are made regarding deterioration of marine concrete. Issues such as cover to reinforcement, concrete type, site practice, corrosion of reinforcement, and suitability of repairs are discussed and recommendations are made for improving concrete durability. Findings from the survey indicated that current specifications and construction practice were inadequate and could not guarantee concrete durability.
Thermal Properties of Commercially Available High-Strength Concretes
Authors: Van Geem MG , Gajda J , Dombrowski K 
Published: January 2010

Abstract
This paper summarizes the thermal properties of commercially available high-strength concretes. Five concretes with anticipated compressive strengths in the range of 10 000 to 20 000 psi (69 to 138 MPa) were tested. W/C ratios ranged from 0.26 to 0.43; water-to-total cementitious material ratios ranged from 0.22 to 0.32. The concretes, containing either no mineral admixtures, silica fume only, or both fly ash and silica fume, were delivered by a ready-mix supplier for laboratory testing.
Tests covered by this paper include thermal conductivity, thermal diffusivity, specific heat, and drying rates. Thermal conductivity was measured using a guarded hot plate (ASTM C 177) at 85, 300, and 700°F (30, 150, and 370°C). Thermal conductivity was also measured using the hot-wire method (ASTM C 1113) at 70, 300, 570, 840, 1110, 1380, and 1830°F (25, 150, 300, 450, 600, 750, and 1000°C). Thermal diffusivity was measured, using the guarded hot plate apparatus, at 95, 250, and 500°F (35, 120, and 250°C). Thermal diffusivity was also measured using a dynamic radial heat flow method continuously from 210 to 1830°F (100 to 1000°C). Thermal properties at high temperatures differed depending on the method used. Specific heat was measured on saturated concrete at ambient temperatures. Rates of drying for initially moist cured specimens were determined by oven-drying thermal conductivity specimens at 150, 185, and 220°F (65, 85, and 105°C) prior to thermal testing. Mass loss was measured at temperatures up to 1740°F (950°C) at heating rates of 4, 36, and 90°F (2, 20, and 50°C) per minute.
Abrasion Resistance of Surface-Treated Concrete
Authors: Sadegzadeh M , Kettle RJ 
Published: January 2010

Abstract
This paper describes a laboratory study of surface treatments on the abrasion resistance of concrete. A test method based on rotating steel wheels running in a circular path was adopted to assess the abrasion resistance. The reported data are from a series of tests performed on relatively large slabs so that power trowelling and finishing could be used to produce the test surfaces. These slabs were used to assess the effects of various treatments on abrasion resistance, including both liquid surface treatments and dry shake surface treatments.
Concrete liquid hardeners were more effective in improving the abrasion resistance of mixes with low water-cement ratios rather than those with high water-cement ratios. Proper curing, however, of the concrete slabs was more effective in improving the abrasion resistance than the application of concrete liquid hardeners. Penetrating sealing and hardening treatments significantly increased the abrasion resistance of all types of concrete mixes. The abrasion resistance obtained by the use of penetrating sealer and hardener treatments ranked highest when compared with other air-cured specimen slabs. The application of these treatments reduced the influence of concrete mix design on the abrasion resistance of the slab.
Test Methods for Rapid-Hardening Magnesium Phosphate-Based Cements
Authors: Popovics S , Rajendran N 
Published: January 2010

Abstract
This paper describes several different test methods that were used for rapid-hardening cements. The term “rapid-hardening cement” is defined in this paper as a hydraulic binder that can develop at least 2000-psi (15-MPa) compressive strength within 2 h under normal conditions. Due to the special nature of these cements, it is questionable whether the conventional methods are suitable for testing them. The quickness of setting and the very rapid strength development may cause a need for special testing procedures. Furthermore, unlike the standard portland cements, these materials come as a mixture of sand and cement.
The conclusion is that many of the applied ASTM methods, perhaps with modifications, can provide useful information about the technically important properties of these rapid-hardening cements. This paves the way toward a more uniform testing and the eventual standardization of test methods for these special cements and mortars of increasing popularity. Though this paper describes only magnesium phosphate (MP)-based cements, the conclusions of the paper apply to most of the rapid-hardening hydraulic binders.
Trade-Off of Gradation and Cost Requirements in Aggregate Blending
Authors: Easa SM 
Published: January 2010

Abstract
Existing aggregate blending methods can be used to provide the optimum proportions based on either gradation or cost requirements. The purpose of this paper is to present an analytical method that allows a trade-off between gradation and cost requirements in determining the optimum proportions. Only three aggregates are considered, but the method can be extended to any number of aggregates. The method provides the entire feasible region of proportions that satisfies the gradation specification limits along with the mean deviation and cost of every point in that region. The mean deviation can be based on mid-point specifications or the maximum density gradation curve. The optimum proportions for the minimum mean deviation, minimum cost, or a trade-off between the two are determined. The method was applied to two examples of aggregate blending. The first example illustrates the trade-off analysis of gradation and cost requirements, and the second example illustrates a special advantage of the method. In addition to considering both gradation and cost requirements, the method has other advantages. Unlike existing methods, this method automatically eliminates negative solutions and can handle any type of the cost function of aggregates.
Durability of Concrete
Authors: Rodway LE 
Published: January 2010

Abstract
The durability of concrete is obviously a complex topic. This paper deals with an overview in four parts: The first part consists of durability as affected by more than 200 individual separate items involved in its constituent materials; the effect of practical matters in preparing and handling concrete aggregates; cement storage and handling and construction techniques; the physical properties of the hardened concrete; nature of exposure of the concrete; and finally the types of loading to which concrete is exposed. Second, examples of durability of nonstructural exposed concrete are given in terms of resistance to freeze-thaw forces in relation to air-void characteristics of normal concrete. Third, an example of nondurable, load bearing structural concrete is illustrated along with the causes of distress and method of repair. Finally, a recent example of a high strength structural concrete bridge deck containing a superplasticizer is presented in terms of its durability characteristics. Detailed data on each of these four classifications has been referenced to facilitate a more in-depth study by those parties who may have an interest in one or more of those topics.
The Determination of Specific Gravity Using the Siphon-Can Method
Authors: Black RW 
Published: January 2010

Abstract
Current methods of determining the specific gravity, moisture content, and absorption of concrete aggregates (ASTM Test Method for Specific Gravity and Absorption of Coarse Aggregate [C 127], ASTM Test Method for Specific Gravity and Absorption of Fine Aggregate [C 128], and ASTM Test Method for Total Moisture Content of Aggregate by Drying [C 566]) are slow and dependent upon subjective “end-point” determinations as well as requiring elaborate and cumbersome equipment. Presented here is a method using simple equipment, the siphon can, to accomplish all three tests. This technique has an objective “end-point” and statistical error of measurement one-quarter that of ASTM C 127 or C 128. Derivation of formulae and method of application are discussed. The use of this technique in routine concrete production can result in large savings to concrete producers.
Effect of Cement Replacement, Content, and Type on the Durability Performance of Fly Ash Concrete in the Middle East
Authors: Rasheeduzzafar  , Al-Mana A , Haneef M , Maslehuddin M 
Published: January 2010

Abstract
The low durability of concrete construction in the Middle East caused by corrosion of reinforcement, sulfate attack, environmental cracking, and aggregate-cement reactivity necessitates that mix design techniques be formulated to yield dense and impervious concrete with as little heat of hydration as possible; it should also have enhanced resistance to salt attack and possible cement-aggregate reactivity. These objectives present fly ash as a potentially useful admixture from the standpoint of improving the durability of concrete construction in the aggressive service environment of the Gulf seaboard.
This investigation presents data on the strength, general quality, and durability performance of fly-ash portland-cement concrete against sulfate/chloride attack. The variables used for this study are fly ash additions as cement replacement from 0 to 40%, cement factors of 300, 360 and 450 kg/m3 (500, 600, and 750 lb/yd3) and tricalcium aluminate (C3A) phase ranging from 0 to 9.5%. Results show that 20% replacement by fly as shows the best performance in terms of rate of strength gain, ultimate strength, absorptive characteristics, and resistance to sulfate/chloride attack. The strength gain is superior in lean mixes, and the effect of fly ash addition on sulfate resistance of concrete is more pronounced for higher C3A cements. An increase in the cement factor without attendant changes in water/cement ratio does not necessarily provide better durability performance.
Some Laboratory Experiments on the Inhibitor Effect of Sodium Nitrite on Reinforcement Corrosion
Authors: Andrade C , Alonso C , González JA 
Published: January 2010

AbstractThe summary of several years of research about the inhibitor effect of NO2− on the corrosion of reinforcement is presented. Their inhibitor effect has been studied using galvanostatic and potentiodynamic polarization curves, and we have measured the corrosion rates using the polarization resistance method (linear polarization). Verification has been done by this last technique Rp, that the NO2− in concrete, if it is used in sufficient proportion, is a complete inhibitor when the Cl− is added during the mixing (for example, mixing with seawater, calcium chloride (CaCl2) as an accelerator inhibitor). Insufficient amounts of NO2− have never provoked more corrosion in our experiments in concrete. The presence of NO2− always have produced a beneficial effect. The NO2− are also beneficial in carbonated concrete, suppressing or at least reducing the attacked area and the corrosion rate of the reinforcements.
Shrinkage and Creep of Concrete Containing 50% Lignite Fly Ash at High Temperatures
Authors: Nasser KW , Al-Manaseer AA 
Published: January 2010

Abstract
This paper investigates the influence of high temperature on the shrinkage and creep of unsealed and sealed concrete containing 50% Saskatchewan lignite fly ash and 50% Type I portland cement. Concrete was tested at six different temperatures between 70 and 450°F (21 and 232°C) and under three stress levels of 750, 1200, and 1500 psi (5.2, 8.3, and 10.3 MPa). The tests were made on 3 by 9-in. (75 by 225mm) concrete cylinders, and shrinkage and creep were measured for a maximum period of 112 days.
It was found that the shape of the shrinkage and the creep time curves were similar at both normal and elevated temperatures.
Test results also showed that shrinkage and creep of unsealed specimens decreased with a rise in temperature from 70 to 350°F (21 to 177°C) and then increased with a further rise in temperature. Creep of sealed specimens was found to increase with a rise in temperature from 70 to 160°F (21 to 71°C) and then to decrease with a further rise in temperature. Shrinkage and creep of unsealed specimens were nearly the same as those of plain concrete at the age of 112 days and at temperatures of 70 to 450°F (21 to 232°C).
KC8A3: X-Ray Diffraction Characterization of the Compound and Comparison with NC8A3 and C3A
Authors: Gebhardt RF 
Published: January 2010

Abstract
The X-ray diffraction pattern of KC8A3 has been determined in detail. Comparison of the KC8A3 data with new and previous X-ray diffraction data on NC8A3 and C3A shows it to be a distinctly different phase bearing close structural similarities to the other aluminates in portland cement clinker. The progression from cubic C3A to tetragonal KC8A3 to orthorhombic NC8A3 with only minor shifts in cell parameters suggests the possibility of solid solution between respective adjacent pairs in production clinkers.