bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Distribution and Structure of Purkinje Fibers in the Heart of Ostrich (Struthio camelus) with the Special References on the Ultrastructure
Authors: Parto Paria , Tadjalli Mina , Ghazi S. Reza , Salamat Mohammad Ali
Published: August 2013

Purkinje fibers or Purkinje cardiomyocytes are part of the whole complex of the cardiac conduction system, which is today classified as specific heart muscle tissue responsible for the generation of the heart impulses. From the point of view of their distribution, structure and ultrastructural composition of the cardiac conduction system in the ostrich heart were studied by light and electron microscopy. These cells were distributed in cardiac conducting system including SA node, AV node, His bundle and branches as well as endocardium, pericardium, myocardium around the coronary arteries, moderator bands, white fibrous sheet in right atrium, and left septal attachment of AV valve. The great part of the Purkinje fiber is composed of clear, structure less sarcoplasm, and the myofibrils tend to be confined to a thin ring around the periphery of the cells. They have one or more large nuclei centrally located within the fiber. Ultrastructurally, they are easily distinguished. The main distinction feature is the lack of electron density and having a light appearance, due to the absence of organized myofibrils. P-cells usually have two nuclei with a mass of short, delicate microfilaments scattered randomly in the cytoplasm; they contain short sarcomeres and myofibrillar insertion plaque. They do not have T-tubules.
Mechanical Properties and Weathering Behavior of Polypropylene‐Hemp Shives Composites
Authors: Popa Marcel Ionel , Pernevan Silvia , Sirghie Cecilia , Spiridon Iuliana , Chambre Dorina , Copolovici Dana Maria , Popa Niculina
Published: August 2013

This paper presents the obtaining and the characterization of composites with polypropylene matrix and hemp shives as filler in different ratios and containing poly(propylene)‐co maleic anhydride (MAH‐PP) 3% wt as compatibility agent. The weathering behavior of the composite enclosing 60% hemp shives, performed after the exposure to UV radiations at different exposure times, was evaluated. The changes in the chemical and morphological structures were investigated by FT‐IR and RAMAN spectroscopies and AFM microscopy. The mechanical characteristics of the composites were determined before and after an artificial aging process, and they are within the limits of the values reported for polyolefin‐based composites and materials with natural fillers. During the accelerated weathering process, the correlation between the chemical degradation of the main components of the composite and the modification of the mechanical properties after the process of aging has been observed.
Differences in Blood Urea and Creatinine Concentrations in Earthed and Unearthed Subjects during Cycling Exercise and Recovery
Authors: Sokal Paweł , Jastrzębski Zbigniew , Jaskulska Ewelina , Sokal Karol , Jastrzębska Maria , Radzimiński Łukasz , Dargiewicz Robert , Zieliński Piotr
Published: August 2013

Contact of humans with the earth, either directly (e.g., with bare feet) or using a metal conductor, changes their biochemical parameters. The effects of earthing during physical exercise are unknown. This study was carried out to evaluate selected biochemical parameters in subjects who were earthed during cycling. In a double-blind, crossover study, 42 participants were divided into two groups and earthed during exercise and recovery. One group was earthed in the first week during 30 minutes of cycling exercise and during recovery, and a second group was earthed in the second week. A double-blind technique was applied. Blood samples were obtained before each training session, after 15 and 30 minutes of exercise, and after 40 minutes of recovery. Significantly lower blood urea levels were observed in subjects earthed during exercise and relaxation. These significant differences were noted in both groups earthed at the beginning of exercise (P<0.0001), after 15 (P<0.0001) and 30 minutes (P<0.0001) of exercise, and after 40 minutes of relaxation (P<0.0001). Creatinine concentrations in earthed subjects during exercise were unchanged.Conclusions. Earthing during exercise lowers blood urea concentrations and may inhibit hepatic protein catabolism or increase renal urea excretion. Exertion under earthing may result in a positive protein balance.
Analysis of the Behavior of Carbon Nanotubes on Cementitious Composites
Authors: de Morais Jorge Fernandes , Haddad Assed Naked , Haurie Laia
Published: August 2013

Nanotechnology has brought significant innovations in science and engineering. Carbon nanotube has been considered a new and outstanding material in nanoscience field with great potential application in the construction industry. The main objective of this study is to analyze the behavior of cementitious materials produced with the insertion of carbon nanotubes of multiple walls in different concentrations and compare their physic-mechanical properties with plain mortar. This research covers the examination of nanoscale cement products and the use of carbon nanotubes to increase the strength and durability of cementitious composites. Three different ratios of carbon nanotubes have been searched: 0.20, 0.40, and 0.60%. To evaluate the mechanical properties of the samples, destructive and nondestructive tests were carried out to obtain compressive strength, tensile strength by diametrical compression, and dynamic modulus of elasticity as well as to determine their deformation properties. Methods of instrumentation such as scanning electron microscopy and porosity were also used in the analysis of microstructure of the materials. The study presents graphs, tables, and figures describing the behavior of CNT added to mortars samples, allowing a better understanding of the use of this new material in the construction industry.
Characterization of the Bacterial Community Associated with Larvae and Adults ofAnoplophora chinensisCollected in Italy by Culture and Culture-Independent Methods
Authors: Rizzi Aurora , Crotti Elena , Borruso Luigimaria , Jucker Costanza , Lupi Daniela , Colombo Mario , Daffonchio Daniele
Published: August 2013

The wood-boring beetleAnoplophora chinensisForster, native to China, has recently spread to North America and Europe causing serious damage to ornamental and forest trees. The gut microbial community associated with these xylophagous beetles is of interest for potential biotechnological applications in lignocellulose degradation and development of pest-control measures. In this study the gut bacterial community of larvae and adults ofA. chinensis, collected from different host trees in North Italy, was investigated by both culture and culture-independent methods. Larvae and adults harboured a moderately diverse bacterial community, dominated by Proteobacteria, Actinobacteria, and Firmicutes. The gammaproteobacterial family Enterobacteriaceae (generaGibbsiella, Enterobacter, Raoultella, andKlebsiella) was the best represented. The abundance of such bacteria in the insect gut is likely due to the various metabolic abilities ofEnterobacteriaceae, including fermentation of carbohydrates derived from lignocellulose degradation and contribution to nitrogen intake by nitrogen-fixing activity. In addition, bacteria previously shown to have some lignocellulose-degrading activity were detected at a relatively low level in the gut. These bacteria possibly act synergistically with endogenous and fungal enzymes in lignocellulose breakdown. The detection of actinobacterial symbionts could be explained by a possible role in the detoxification of secondary plant metabolites and/or protection against pathogens.
Phytochemical and Pharmacological Review of Da Chuanxiong Formula: A Famous Herb Pair Composed ofChuanxiong RhizomaandGastrodiae Rhizomafor Headache
Authors: Wang Lu , Zhang Jinming , Hong Yanlong , Feng Yi , Chen Meiwan , Wang Yitao
Published: August 2013

Chronic headache such as migraine and nervous headache has become one of the most common locations of pain and one of the most difficult diseases to recover due to its numerous causes and inconvenience to keep acesodyne administration for a long time. However, there are a series of treatment theories and herbal formulas for this disease in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), in which Da Chuanxiong formula (DCXF), a herb pair composed ofChuanxiong Rhizoma(CR), Chuanxiong in Chinese, andGastrodiae Rhizoma(GR) called as Tianma in China, is a greatly classic representative. This formula has been used for headaches via dispelling wind pathogen and dissipating blood stasis for many years in TCM. In recent years, the efficiency and representativeness of DCXF have garnered many researchers’ attention. To reveal the compatibility mechanism and develop innovative Chinese herb, herein ethnopharmacological relevance, chemical characters, and pharmacological actions of DCXF are detailed. It is expected to give a comprehensive interpretation of DCXF, namely, Chuanxiong Tianma herb pair (CTHP), to inherit the essence of herb pair and innovate drug delivery system of this prescription.
RU28318, an Aldosterone Antagonist, in Combination with an ACE Inhibitor and Angiotensin Receptor Blocker Attenuates Cardiac Dysfunction in Diabetes
Authors: Benter Ibrahim F. , Babiker Fawzi , Al-Rashdan Ibrahim , Yousif Mariam , Akhtar Saghir
Published: August 2013

Aims. We evaluated the effects of RU28318 (RU), a selective mineralocorticoid receptor (MR) antagonist, Captopril (Capt), an angiotensin converting enzyme inhibitor, and Losartan (Los), an angiotensin receptor blocker, alone or in combination with ischemia/reperfusion- (I/R-) induced cardiac dysfunction in hearts obtained from normal and diabetic rats.Methods. Isolated hearts were perfused for 30 min and then subjected to 30 min of global ischemia (I) followed by a period of 30 min of reperfusion (R). Drugs were administered for 30 min either before or after ischemia. Drug regimens tested were RU, Capt, Los, RU + Capt, RU + Los, Capt + Los, and RU + Capt + Los (Triple). Recovery of cardiac hemodynamics was evaluated.Results. Recovery of cardiac function was up to 5-fold worse in hearts obtained from diabetic animals compared to controls. Treatment with RU was generally better in preventing or reversing ischemia-induced cardiac dysfunction in normal hearts compared to treatment with Capt or Los alone. In diabetic hearts, RU was generally similarly effective as Capt or Los treatment.Conclusions. RU treatment locally might be considered as an effective therapy or preventative measure in cardiac I/R injury. Importantly, RU was the most effective at improving-dP/dt(a measure of diastolic function) when administered to diabetic hearts after ischemia.
Analysis of Therapeutic Effect ofIlex hainanensisMerr. Extract on Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease through Urine Metabolite Profiling by Ultraperformance Liquid Chromatography/Quadrupole Time of Flight Mass Spectrometry
Authors: Li Jing-jing , Yang Jie , Cui Wei-xi , Chen Xiao-qing , Chen Gang-ling , Wen Xiao-dong , Wang Qiang
Published: August 2013

Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), the most common form of chronic liver disease, is increased worldwide in parallel with the obesity epidemic. Our previous studies have showed that the extract ofI. hainanensis(EIH) can prevent NAFLD in rat fed with high-fat diet. In this work, we aimed to find biomarkers of NAFLD and investigate the therapeutic effects of EIH. NAFLD model was induced in male Sprague-Dawley rats by high-fat diet. The NAFLD rats were administered EIH orally (250 mg/kg) for two weeks. After the experimental period, samples of 24 h urine were collected and analyzed by ultraperformance liquid chromatography/quadrupole time of flight mass spectrometry (UPLC-Q-TOF). Orthogonal partial least squares analysis (OPLSs) models were built to find biomarkers of NAFLD and investigate the therapeutic effects of EIH. 22 metabolites, which are distributed in several metabolic pathways, were identified as potential biomarkers of NAFLD. Taking these biomarkers as screening indexes, EIH could reverse the pathological process of NAFLD through regulating the disturbed pathway of metabolism. The metabolomic results not only supply a systematic view of the development and progression of NAFLD but also provide a theoretical basis for the prevention or treatment of NAFLD.
Optimum Design of 1st Gear Ratio for 4WD Vehicles Based on Vehicle Dynamic Behaviour
Authors: Shojaeefard M. H. , Talebitooti R. , Yarmohammadi Satri Sadegh
Published: August 2013

This paper presents an approach that allows optimizing gear ratio and vehicle dimension to achieve optimum gear transmission. Therefore, augmented Lagrangian multiplier method, defined as classical method, is utilized to find the optimum gear ratios and the corresponding number of gear teeth applied to all epicyclical gears. The new method is able to calculate and also to optimize the gear ratio based on dynamics of 4WD vehicles. Therefore, 4WD vehicles dynamic equations are employed assuming that the rear wheels or the front wheels are at the point of slip. In addition, a genetic algorithm is modified to preserve feasibility of the encountered solutions. The basic dimension of a sample commercial vehicle (2009 hummer H3 4dr AWD SUV) and its gearbox are optimized, and then the effects of changing slip angle, wheel base, and engine torque on optimum vehicle dimension are analyzed.
θ-Metric Space: A Generalization
Authors: Khojasteh Farshid , Karapınar Erdal , Radenović Stojan
Published: August 2013

We introduce the notion ofθ-metric as a generalization of a metric by replacing the triangle inequality with a more generalized inequality. We investigate the topology of the spaces induced by aθ-metric and present some essential properties of it. Further, we give characterization of well-known fixed point theorems, such as the Banach and Caristi types in the context of such spaces.
New Preconditioners for Nonsymmetric Saddle Point Systems with Singular (1,1) Block
Authors: Liu Qingbing
Published: August 2013

We investigate the solution of large linear systems of saddle point type with singular (1,1) block by preconditioned iterative methods and consider two parameterized block triangular preconditioners used with Krylov subspace methods which have the attractive property of improved eigenvalue clustering with increased ill-conditioning of the (1,1) block of the saddle point matrix, including the choice of the parameter. Meanwhile, we analyze the spectral characteristics of two preconditioners and give the optimal parameter in practice. Numerical experiments that validate the analysis are presented.
Relevance of Hypersexual Disorder to Family Medicine and Primary Care as a Complex Multidimensional Chronic Disease Construct
Authors: Borgermans Liesbeth , Vrijhoef Bert , Vandevoorde Jan , De Maeseneer Jan , Vansintejan Johan , Devroey Dirk
Published: August 2013

Hypersexual disorder (HD) is not defined in a uniform way in the psychiatric literature. In the absence of solid evidence on prevalence, causes, empirically validated diagnostic criteria, instruments for diagnosis, consistent guidelines on treatment options, medical and psychosocial consequences, and type of caregivers that need to be involved, HD remains a controversial and relatively poorly understood chronic disease construct. The role of family medicine in the detection, treatment, and followup of HD is not well studied. The purpose of this paper is to describe the complexity of HD as a multidimensional chronic disease construct and its relevance to family medicine and primary care.
The Effects of Adding Elements of Zinc and Magnesium on Ag-Cu Eutectic Alloy for Warming Acupuncture
Authors: Kim Yu Kyoung , Park Il Song , Kim Keun Sik , Lee Min Ho
Published: August 2013

The warming acupuncture for hyperthermia therapy is made of STS304. However, its needle point cannot be reached to a desirable temperature due to heat loss caused by low thermal conductivity, and the quantification of stimulation condition and the effective standard establishment of warming acupuncture are required as a heat source. Accordingly, in this study, after Ag-Cu alloys with different composition ratios were casted and then mixed with additives to improve their physical and mechanical properties, the thermal conductivity and biocompatibility of the alloy specimens were evaluated for selecting suitable material. Ag-Cu binary alloys and ternary alloys added 5 wt% Zn or 2 wt% Mg were casted and then cold drawn to manufacture needles for acupuncture, and their physical properties, thermal conductivity, and biocompatibility were evaluated for their potential use in warming acupuncture. The results of this study showed that the physical and mechanical properties of the Ag-Cu alloys were improved by additives and that the thermal conductivity, machinability, and biocompatibility of the Ag-Cu alloys were improved by Mg addition.
Endpoints inT0-Quasimetric Spaces: Part II
Authors: Agyingi Collins Amburo , Haihambo Paulus , Künzi Hans-Peter A.
Published: August 2013

We continue our work on endpoints and startpoints inT0-quasimetric spaces. In particular we specialize some of our earlier results to the case of two-valuedT0-quasimetrics, that is, essentially, to partial orders. For instance, we observe that in a complete lattice the startpoints (resp., endpoints) in our sense are exactly the completely join-irreducible (resp., completely meet-irreducible) elements. We also discuss for a partially ordered set the connection between its Dedekind-MacNeille completion and theq-hyperconvex hull of its naturalT0-quasimetric space.
Candidate Genes for Proliferative Diabetic Retinopathy
Authors: Petrovič Daniel
Published: August 2013

Several candidate genes have been so far implicated in the pathogenesis of proliferative diabetic retinopathy (PDR) in subjects with type 2 diabetes. Since the principal pathogenetic mechanisms for diabetic retinopathy (DR) and PDR are different, the main pathogenetic mechanism in DR is increased vascular permeability, whereas in PDR the crucial pathogenetic mechanisms are fibrosis and neoangiogenesis. Due to that fact, different candidate genes are expected to be involved in the development of either DR or PDR. None of the candidate genes, however, can be fully and solely responsible for the development of PDR and for DR progression into PDR. Epigenetic mechanisms are expected to be involved in the pathogenesis of PDR as well. Gene polymorphisms responsible for PDR and epigenetic mechanisms responsible for PDR are reviewed in this paper.
Construction and Composition of Rooted Trees via Descent Functions
Authors: Abrate Marco , Barbero Stefano , Cerruti Umberto , Murru Nadir
Published: August 2013

We propose a novel approach for studying rooted trees by using functions that we will call descent functions. We provide a construction method for rooted trees that allows to study their properties through the use of descent functions. Moreover, in this way, we are able to compose rooted trees with each other. Such a new composition of rooted trees is a very powerful tool applied in this paper in order to obtain important results as the creation of new rational and Pythagorean trees.
Hydrothermal Synthesis of Pt-, Fe-, and Zn-dopedSnO2Nanospheres and Carbon Monoxide Sensing Properties
Authors: Chen Weigen , Zhou Qu , Peng Shudi
Published: August 2013

Pure and M-doped (M = Pt, Fe, and Zn) SnO2nanospheres were successfully synthesized via a simple and facile hydrothermal method and characterized by X-ray powder diffraction, field-emission scanning electron microscopy, and energy dispersive spectroscopy. Chemical gas sensors were fabricated based on the as-synthesized nanostructures, and carbon monoxide sensing properties were systematically measured. Compared to pure, Fe-, and Zn-doped SnO2nanospheres, the Pt-doped SnO2nanospheres sensor exhibits higher sensitivity, lower operating temperature, more rapid response and recovery, better stability, and excellent selectivity. In addition, a theoretical study based on the first principles calculation was conducted. All results demonstrate the potential of Pt dopant for improving the gas sensing properties of SnO2-based sensors to carbon monoxide.
Increased Risk of Atopic Dermatitis in Preschool Children with Kawasaki Disease: A Population-Based Study in Taiwan
Authors: Woon Peng Yeong , Chang Wei Chiao , Liang Chi-Cheng , Hsu Chun Hung , Klahan Sukhontip , Huang Ying-Hsien , Chang Wei-Pin , Kuo Ho-Chang
Published: August 2013

Kawasaki disease (KD) is an acute febrile systemic vasculitis and has been reported to be associated with allergic disease. The risk of atopic dermatitis (AD) in preschool children with KD has not been investigated. The study was to determine the longitudinal risk of the development of AD in preschool children with KD. A nationwide 5-year population-based study was performed using data from the National Health Insurance Database in Taiwan between 1999 and 2003. The risk factors for AD were compared between the 2 study groups during the follow-up period using the Cox proportional hazards model. In addition, plasma interleukin (IL)-5 levels were analyzed in normal subjects and KD patients. Among the 1440 subjects included, 21.6% developed AD during the 5-year follow-up period, of which 30.3% and 18.7% belonged to the study cohort and the comparison group, respectively. Children with KD were 1.25 times more likely to have AD than those in controls (P=0.04). Levels of IL-5 and IgE were significantly higher in KD patients. Children with KD had a higher risk of developing AD during the 5-year follow-up period than the control group. Increased IL-5 and IgE levels may be key factors contributing to the risk of AD.
Unstructured Grids and the Multigroup Neutron Diffusion Equation
Authors: Theler German
Published: August 2013

The neutron diffusion equation is often used to perform core-level neutronic calculations. It consists of a set of second-order partial differential equations over the spatial coordinates that are, both in the academia and in the industry, usually solved by discretizing the neutron leakage term using a structured grid. This work introduces the alternatives that unstructured grids can provide to aid the engineers to solve the neutron diffusion problem and gives a brief overview of the variety of possibilities they offer. It is by understanding the basic mathematics that lie beneath the equations that model real physical systems; better technical decisions can be made. It is in this spirit that this paper is written, giving a first introduction to the basic concepts which can be incorporated into core-level neutron flux computations. A simple two-dimensional homogeneous circular reactor is solved using a coarse unstructured grid in order to illustrate some basic differences between the finite volumes and the finite elements method. Also, the classic 2D IAEA PWR benchmark problem is solved for eighty combinations of symmetries, meshing algorithms, basic geometric entities, discretization schemes, and characteristic grid lengths, giving even more insight into the peculiarities that arise when solving the neutron diffusion equation using unstructured grids.
Flow Characterization of Dense-Phase Pneumatic Conveying System of Pulverized Coal through Electrostatic Sensor Arrays
Authors: Fu Feifei , Kong Ming , Xu Chuanlong , Liang Cai , Wang Shimin
Published: August 2013

Experiments are performed in a dense-phase pneumatic conveying system of pulverized coal, and electrostatic signals and coal particle distribution images over cross-section of the pipeline at superficial gas velocities of 5.7 m/s, 6.9 m/s, and 8.1 m/s are obtained through use of electrostatic sensor arrays (ESA) and electrical capacitance tomography (ECT), respectively. In combination with ECT imaging results, the output signals of the ESA are analyzed by FFT and approximate entropy method. Results show that characteristic of particles motion and its change with increasing superficial gas velocity are different in the dense and dilute phase region of the pipe. With increasing the superficial gas velocity, the peak frequency of the electrostatic signal increases linearly in dense-phase region, while that in dilute phase region is nonlinear, implying that the increase of the axial particles velocity is the main dynamic change, while in dilute phase regions, the particles velocity fluctuation in the radial direction cannot be ignored. The ApEn value of the electrostatic signal in dense phase region is larger than that in dilute phase region. When the ApEn value difference of the electrostatic signals is smaller, the pulverized coal particles are better suspended.
Red Chicory (Cichorium intybusL. cultivar) as a Potential Source of Antioxidant Anthocyanins for Intestinal Health
Authors: D'evoli Laura , Morroni Fabiana , Lombardi-Boccia Ginevra , Lucarini Massimo , Hrelia Patrizia , Cantelli-Forti Giorgio , Tarozzi Andrea
Published: August 2013

Fruit- and vegetable-derived foods have become a very significant source of nutraceutical phytochemicals. Among vegetables, red chicory (Cichorium IntybusL. cultivar) has gained attention for its content of phenolic compounds, such as the anthocyanins. In this study, we evaluated the nutraceutical effects, in terms of antioxidant, cytoprotective, and antiproliferative activities, of extracts of the whole leaf or only the red part of the leaf of Treviso red chicory (a typical Italian red leafy plant) in various intestinal models, such as Caco-2 cells, differentiated in normal intestinal epithelia and undifferentiated Caco-2 cells. The results show that the whole leaf of red chicory can represent a good source of phytochemicals in terms of total phenolics and anthocyanins as well as the ability of these phytochemicals to exert antioxidant and cytoprotective effects in differentiated Caco-2 cells and antiproliferative effects in undifferentiated Caco-2 cells. Interestingly, compared to red chicory whole leaf extracts, the red part of leaf extracts had a significantly higher content of both total phenolics and anthocyanins. The same extracts effectively corresponded to an increase of antioxidant, cytoprotective, and antiproliferative activities. Taken together, these findings suggest that the red part of the leaf of Treviso red chicory with a high content of antioxidant anthocyanins could be interesting for development of new food supplements to improve intestinal health.
Distal Airway Impairment in Obese Normoreactive Women
Authors: Marin Grégory , Gamez Anne Sophie , Molinari Nicolas , Kacimi Djamila , Vachier Isabelle , Paganin Fabrice , Chanez Pascal , Bourdin Arnaud
Published: August 2013

Background. Asthma-like symptoms are frequent in overweight and obesity, but the mechanism is unclear when airway hyperresponsiveness (AHR) is lacking. In this study, we focused on obese women with a clinical suspicion of asthma but negative methacholine challenge and tested distal airway hyperreactivity, explored by Forced Vital Capacity dose-response slope (FVC DRS).Objective. To question AHR at the distal airway level in obese women.Methods. A total of 293 symptomatic obese and nonobese women free of treatment were investigated. Methacholine challenge tests were undertaken, and patients were divided according to their results to the test. In hyperreactive and nonhyperreactive patients and in our total population, correlations, regression analyses, and analyses of covariance were performed to compare distal airway hyperreactivity in three groups of body mass index (BMI).Results. After adjusting for age and baseline respiratory values, the relationship between FVC and FEV1 (forced expiratory volume in one second) DRS was influenced by BMI, with a lower slope in obese than overweight and normal patients in our total population (P=0.008) and in our nonhyperreactive one (P=0.028).Conclusion. Distal airway hyperresponsiveness was observed in symptomatic wheezing obese women negative to methacholine challenge.
Overexpression of FXYD-3 Is Involved in the Tumorigenesis and Development of Esophageal Squamous Cell Carcinoma
Authors: Zhu Zhen-Long , Yan Bao-Yong , Zhang Yu , Yang Yan-Hong , Wang Ming-Wei , Zentgraf Hanswalter , Zhang Xiang-Hong , Sun Xiao-Feng
Published: August 2013

Objective.To investigate the association of FXYD-3 expression with clinicopathological variables and PINCH in patients with ESCC.Patients and Methods.Expression of FXYD-3 protein was immunohistochemically examined in normal esophageal mucous (n=20) and ESCC (n=64).Results.Expression of FXYD-3 in the cytoplasm markedly increased from normal esophageal epithelial cells to primary ESCC (P=0.001). The expression of FXYD-3 was correlated with TNM stages and depth of tumor invasion. Furthermore, the cases with lymph node metastasis tended to show a higher frequency of positive expression than those without metastasis (P=0.086), and FXYD-3 expression tended to be positively related to the expression of PINCH (P=0.063). Moreover, the cases positive for both proteins had the highest frequency of lymph node metastasis (P=0.001). However, FXYD-3 expression was not correlated with patient’s gender (P=0.847), age (P=0.876), tumor location (P=0.279), size (P=0.7710.771), grade of differentiation (P=0.279), and survival (P=0.113).Conclusion.Overexpression of FXYD-3 in the cytoplasm may play an important role in the tumorigenesis and development in the human ESCC, particularly in combination with PINCH expression.
On the Comparison between Compact Finite Difference and Pseudospectral Approaches for Solving Similarity Boundary Layer Problems
Authors: Dlamini P. G. , Motsa S. S. , Khumalo M.
Published: August 2013

We introduce two methods based on higher order compact finite differences for solving boundary layer problems. The methods called compact finite difference relaxation method (CFD-RM) and compact finite difference quasilinearization method (CFD-QLM) are an alternative form of the spectral relaxation method (SRM) and spectral quasilinearization method (SQLM). The SRM and SQLM are Chebyshev pseudospectral-based methods which have been successfully used to solve boundary layer problems. The main objective of this paper is to give a comparison of the compact finite difference approach against the pseudo-spectral approach in solving similarity boundary layer problems. In particular, we seek to identify the most accurate and computationally efficient method for solving systems of boundary layer equations in fluid mechanics. The results of the two approaches are comparable in terms of accuracy for small systems of equations. For larger systems of equations, the proposed compact finite difference approaches are more accurate than the spectral-method-based approaches.
Evaluation of Flow-Induced Dynamic Stress and Vibration of Volute Casing for a Large-Scale Double-Suction Centrifugal Pump
Authors: Wang Fu-Jun , Qu Li-Xia , He Ling-Yan , Gao Jiang-Yong
Published: August 2013

The transient analysis was carried out to investigate the dynamic stress and vibration of volute casing for a large double-suction centrifugal pump by using the transient fluid-structure interaction theory. The flow pulsations at flow rate ranging from 60% to 100% of the nominal flow rate (Qd) were taken as the boundary conditions for FEM analysis of the pump volute casing structure. The results revealed that, for all operating conditions, the maximum stress located at the volute tongue region, whereas the maximum vibration displacement happened close to the shaft hole region. It was also found that the blade passing frequency and its harmonics were dominant in the variations of dynamic stress and vibration displacement. The amplitude of the dominant frequency for the maximum stress detected at 0.6Qdwas 1.14 times that atQd, lower than the related difference observed for pressure fluctuations (3.23 times). This study provides an effective method to quantify the flow-induced structural dynamic characteristics for a large-scale double-suction pump. It can be used to direct the hydraulic and structural design and stable operation, as well as fatigue life prediction for large-scale pumps.
Stability Analysis for Impulsive Stochastic Reaction-Diffusion Differential System and Its Application to Neural Networks
Authors: Du Yanke , Li Yanlu , Xu Rui
Published: August 2013

This paper is concerned with the stability of impulsive stochastic reaction-diffusion differential systems with mixed time delays. First, an equivalent relation between the solution of a stochastic reaction-diffusion differential system with time delays and impulsive effects and that of corresponding system without impulses is established. Then, some stability criteria for the stochastic reaction-diffusion differential system with time delays and impulsive effects are derived. Finally, the stability criteria are applied to impulsive stochastic reaction-diffusion Cohen-Grossberg neural networks with mixed time delays, and sufficient conditions are obtained for the exponentialp-stability of the zero solution to the neural networks. An example is given to illustrate the effectiveness of our theoretical results. The systems we studied in this paper are more general, and some existing results are improved and extended.
The Observation of Electrical Hysteric Behavior in Synthesized V2O5 Nanoplates by Recrystallization
Authors: Kim Chang-Hee , Yun Yong Ju , Kim Byung Hoon , Hong Won G. , Kim Yark Yeon , Jang Won lck , Lee Nae-Eung , Yu Han Young
Published: August 2013

The anomalous electrical conductance for the V2O5 foam synthesized via a foaming process was measured. In the annealing process, the synthesized V2O5 foam is recrystallized with the increase of annealing temperature. The recrystallization procedure was characterized by using physical analysis tools such as thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), high‐resolution transmission electron microscopy (HRTEM), and X‐ray diffractometer. In the electrical analysis technique of current‐voltage characteristics as a function of annealing temperature, an anomalous hysteric behavior appears at the annealing temperature of 400°C. We conclude that the recrystallization of V2O5 nanoplates results in the anomalous behavior in voltage‐dependent current characteristics.
Tongxinluo Improves Cardiac Function and Ameliorates Ventricular Remodeling in Mice Model of Myocardial Infarction through Enhancing Angiogenesis
Authors: Bai Wen-Wu , Xing Yi-Fan , Wang Bo , Lu Xiao-Ting , Wang Ying-Bin , Sun Yuan-Yuan , Liu Xiao-Qiong , Guo Tao , Zhao Yu-Xia
Published: August 2013

Background. Myocardial infarction (MI) is a major cause of morbidity and mortality in the world. Tongxinluo (TXL) is a traditional Chinese compound prescription which has cardioprotective functions. The present study was aimed to determine the effect of TXL on postischemic cardiac dysfunction and cardiac remodeling and to elucidate the underlying mechanisms.Methods and Results. MI was performed by ligation of left anterior descending coronary artery (LAD) in male adult mice. Mice were randomly divided into four groups: (1) sham group (Sham); (2) MI-control group (Control); (3) MI-low dose TXL group (TXL-L); and (4) MI-high dose TXL (TXL-H) group. Compared with the control group, TXL treatment restored cardiac function, increased revascularization, attenuated cardiomyocyte apoptosis, and reduced interstitial fibrosis. TXL treatment increased the phosphorylation of Akt, extracellular signal regulated kinase (ERK), and endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS); the expression of phosphatidylinositol3-kinase (PI3K), hypoxia-inducible factors 1α(HIF-1α), and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF); and the DNA binding activity of HIF-1αafter MI.Conclusion. TXL may improve cardiac function and ameliorate cardiac remodeling by increasing neovascularization through enhancing the phosphorylation of Akt and ERK, the expression and activity of HIF-1α, and the protein level of VEGF and p-eNOS.
A Cooperative Coevolutionary Cuckoo Search Algorithm for Optimization Problem
Authors: Zheng Hongqing , Zhou Yongquan
Published: August 2013

Taking inspiration from an organizational evolutionary algorithm for numerical optimization, this paper designs a kind of dynamic population and combining evolutionary operators to form a novel algorithm, a cooperative coevolutionary cuckoo search algorithm (CCCS), for solving both unconstrained, constrained optimization and engineering problems. A population of this algorithm consists of organizations, and an organization consists of dynamic individuals. In experiments, fifteen unconstrained functions, eleven constrained functions, and two engineering design problems are used to validate the performance of CCCS, and thorough comparisons are made between the CCCS and the existing approaches. The results show that the CCCS obtains good performance in the solution quality. Moreover, for the constrained problems, the good performance is obtained by only incorporating a simple constraint handling technique into the CCCS. The results show that the CCCS is quite robust and easy to use.
Effect of Dentin Biomodification Using Naturally Derived Collagen Cross-Linkers: One-Year Bond Strength Study
Authors: Castellan Carina S. , Bedran-Russo Ana K. , Antunes Alberto , Pereira Patricia N. R.
Published: August 2013

Purpose.This study investigated the long-term resin-dentin bond strength of dentin biomodified by proanthocyanidin-rich (PA) agents.Materials and Methods.Forty molars had their coronal dentin exposed, etched, and treated for 10 minutes with 6.5% grape seed extract (GSE), 6.5% cocoa seed extract ethanol-water (CSE-ET), 6.5% cocoa seed extract acetone-water (CSE-AC), and distilled water (CO). Samples were restored either with One-Step Plus (OS) or Adper Single-Bond Plus (SB). Bond strength test was performed immediately or after 3, 6, and 12 months.Results.HigherμTBS were observed for GSE immediately (SB- 62.9 MPa; OS- 51.9 MPa) when compared to CSE-ET (SB- 56.95 MPa; OS- 60.28 MPa), CSE-AC (SB- 49.97 MPa; OS- 54.44 MPa), and CO (SB- 52.0 MPa; OS- 44.0 MPa) (P<0.05). CSE outcomes were adhesive system and solvent dependant. After 12 months storage SB results showed no difference among treatment types (GSE- 57.15 MPa; CSE/ET- 54.04 MPa; CSE/AC- 48.22 MPa; CO- 51.68 MPa;P=0.347),while OS results where treatment dependent (GSE- 42.62 MPa; CSE/ET- 44.06 MPa; CSE/AC- 41.30 MPa; CO- 36.85 MPa;P=0.036).Conclusions.GSE and CSE-ET agents provided enhanced immediate adhesion and stabilization to demineralized dentin after long-term storage, depending on adhesive system.
Green Tea Polyphenol Epigallocatechin-3-Gallate Enhance Glycogen Synthesis and Inhibit Lipogenesis in Hepatocytes
Authors: Kim Jane J. Y. , Tan Yi , Xiao Linda , Sun Ya-Li , Qu Xianqin
Published: August 2013

The beneficial effects of green tea polyphenols (GTP) against metabolic syndrome and type 2 diabetes by suppressing appetite and nutrient absorption have been well reported. However the direct effects and mechanisms of GTP on glucose and lipid metabolism remain to be elucidated. Since the liver is an important organ involved in glucose and lipid metabolism, we examined the effects and mechanisms of GTP on glycogen synthesis and lipogenesis in HepG2 cells. Concentrations of GTP containing 68% naturally occurring (−)-epigallocatechin-3-gallate (EGCG) were incubated in HepG2 cells with high glucose (30 mM) under 100 nM of insulin stimulation for 24 h. GTP enhanced glycogen synthesis in a dose-dependent manner. 10 μM of EGCG significantly increased glycogen synthesis by 2fold (P<0.05) compared with insulin alone. Western blotting revealed that phosphorylation of Ser9 glycogen synthase kinase 3βand Ser641 glycogen synthase was significantly increased in GTP-treated HepG2 cells compared with nontreated cells. 10 μM of EGCG also significantly inhibited lipogenesis (P<0.01). We further demonstrated that this mechanism involves enhanced expression of phosphorylated AMP-activated protein kinaseαand acetyl-CoA carboxylase in HepG2 cells. Our results showed that GTP is capable of enhancing insulin-mediated glucose and lipid metabolism by regulating enzymes involved in glycogen synthesis and lipogenesis.
The Psychometric Properties of the Persian Migraine‐Specific Quality of Life Questionnaire Version 2.1 in Episodic and Chronic Migraines
Authors: Zandifar Alireza , Masjedi Samaneh Sadat , Haghdoost Faraidoon , Asgari Fatemeh , Manouchehri Navid , Banihashemi Mahboobeh , Najafi Mohammad Reza , Ghorbani Abbas , Zolfaghari Behzad , Gholamrezaei Ali , Shaygannejad Vahid , Saadatnia Mohammad
Published: August 2013

Background. Migraine‐specific quality of life (MSQ) is a valid and reliable questionnaire. Linguistic validation of Persian MSQ questionnaire, analysis of psychometric properties between chronic and episodic migraine patients, and capability of MSQ to differentiate between chronic and episodic migraines were the aims of this study. Method. Participants were selected from four different neurology clinics that were diagnosed as chronic or episodic migraine patients. Baseline data included information from MSQ v. 2.1, MIGSEV, SF‐36, and symptoms questionnaire. At the third week from the baseline, participants filled out MSQ and MIGSEV. Internal consistency (Cronbach alpha) and test‐retest reproducibility (intraclass correlation coefficients) were used to assess reliability. Convergent and discriminant validities were also assessed. Results. A total of 106 participants were enrolled. Internal consistencies of MSQ among all patients, chronic and episodic migraines, were 0.92, 0.91, and 0.92, respectively. Test‐retest correlation of MSQ dimensions between visits 1 and 2 varied from 0.41 to 0.50. Convergent, item discriminant, and discriminant validities were approved. In all visits MSQ scores were lower in chronic migraine than episodic migraine; however, the difference was not statistically significant. Conclusion. Persian translation of MSQ is consistent with original version of MSQ in terms of psychometric properties in both chronic and episodic migraine patients.
Prediction of Matrix Failure in Fibre Reinforced Polymer Composites
Authors: Wang J. , Chiu W. K.
Published: August 2013

Recent development has enabled fibre and matrix failure in a fibre reinforced composite material to be predicted separately. Matrix yield/failure prediction is based on a Von Mises strain and first strain invariant criteria. Alternative matrix failure criteria for enhanced prediction accuracy are discussed in this paper. The proposed failure envelope formed with basic failure criteria intersects with uniaxial compression, pure shear and uniaxial tensile test data points smoothly. For failure of typical neat resin, significant improvement of prediction accuracy compared with measured material data is demonstrated. For a unit cell with a fibre and surrounding matrix with typical material properties, a FEM analysis indicates a significant improvement in prediction accuracy in the pure shear load case and a marginal improvement in the biaxial tensile load case. This paper also provided a preliminary discussion about the issues when material nonlinearity of the matrix material is involved.
Rapidly Developing Toxic Epidermal Necrolysis
Authors: Poulsen Viktoria Oline Barrios , Nielsen Jonas , Poulsen Troels Dirch
Published: August 2013

Severe cutaneous reactions with potentially fatal outcomes can have many different causes. The Stevens-Johnson syndrome (SJS) and toxic epidermal necrolysis (TEN) are rare. They are characterized by a low incidence but high mortality, and drugs are most commonly implicated. Urgent active therapy is required. Prompt recognition and withdrawal of suspect drug and rapid intervention can result in favourable outcome. No further international guidelines for treatment exist, and much of the treatment relies on old or experimental concepts with no scientific evidence. We report on a 54-year-old man experiencing rapidly developing drug-induced severe TEN and presented multiorgan failure involving the respiratory and circulatory system, coagulopathy, and renal insufficiency. Detachment counted 30% of total body surface area (TBSA). SCORTEN = 5, indicating a mortality rate >90%. The patient was sedated and mechanically ventilated, supported with fluids and inotropes to maintain a stable circulation. Component therapy was guided by thromboelastography (TEG). The patient received plasmapheresis, and shock reversal treatment was initiated. He was transferred to a specialized intensive care burn unit within 24 hours from admittance. The initial care was continued, and hemodialysis was started. Pulmonary, circulatory, and renal sequelae resolved with intensive care, and re-epithelialization progressed slowly. The patient was discharged home on hospital day 19.
NSD2 Is Recruited through Its PHD Domain to Oncogenic Gene Loci to Drive Multiple Myeloma
Authors: Huang Zheng , Wu Haiping , Chuai Shannon , Xu Fiona , Yan Feng , Englund Nathan , Wang Zhaofu , Zhang Hailong , Fang Ming , Wang Youzhen , Gu Justin , Zhang Man , Yang Teddy , Zhao Kehao , Yu Yanyan , Dai Jingquan , Yi Wei , Zhou Shaolian , Li Qian , Wu Jing , Liu Jun , Wu Xu , Chan Homan , Lu Chris , Atadja Peter , Li En , Wang Yan , Hu Min
Published: August 2013

Histone lysine methyltransferase NSD2 (WHSC1/MMSET) is overexpressed frequently in multiple myeloma due to the t(4;14) translocation associated with 15% to 20% of cases of this disease. NSD2 has been found to be involved in myelomagenesis, suggesting it may offer a novel therapeutic target. Here we show that NSD2 methyltransferase activity is crucial for clonogenicity, adherence, and proliferation of multiple myeloma cells on bone marrow stroma in vitro and that NSD2 is required for tumorigenesis of t(4;14)+ but not t(4;14)− multiple myeloma cells in vivo. The PHD domains in NSD2 were important for its cellular activity and biological function through recruiting NSD2 to its oncogenic target genes and driving their transcriptional activation. By strengthening its disease linkage and deepening insights into its mechanism of action, this study provides a strategy to therapeutically target NSD2 in multiple myeloma patients with a t(4;14) translocation. Cancer Res; 73(20); 6277–88. ©2013 AACR.