bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Perfluorinated porphyrazines 1: Synthesis and UV-vis spectral study of perfluorinated octaphenylporphyrazine and its indium(III) complex, [MPA(F5Ph)8](M= 2H,InIII(OH))
Authors: Stuzhin Pavel A. , Goryachev Maksim Yu. , Ivanova Svetlana S. , Nazarova Anna , Pimkov Igor , Koifman Oscar I.
Published: August 2013

Novel perfluorinated porphyrazine has been prepared as indium(III) complex of octa(pentafluorophenyl)porphyrazine by cyclotetramerization of 1,2-dicyano-1,2-bis(pentafluorophenyl)-ethylene (mixture of cis- and trans-isomers) with basic indium(III) acetate in a melt. The InIIIcomplex is stable in trifluoroacetic and sulfuric acids, but is easily demetalated with formation of the free-base in a chloroform solution containing HCl or slighly acidified with CF3COOH in the presence of tetraalkylammonium chloride as a catalyst. Perfluorination of octaphenylporphyrazine macrocycle leads to a hypsochromic shift of the Q-band maxima in the electronic absorption spectra, to drastic decrease of the basicity of meso-nitrogen atoms of porphyrazine macrocycle and to increase of the acidity of the internal NH -groups.
QRFP induces aldosterone production via PKC and T-type calcium channel-mediated pathways in human adrenocortical cells: evidence for a novel role of GPR103
Authors: Ramanjaneya Manjunath , Karteris Emmanouil , Chen Jing , Rucinski Marcin , Ziolkowska Agnieszka , Ahmed Naima , Kagerer Sonja , Jöhren Olaf , Lehnert Hendrik , Malendowicz Ludwik K. , Randeva Harpal S.
Published: August 2013

Hormonal regulation of adrenal function occurs primarily through activation of GPCRs. GPCRs are central to many of the body's endocrine and neurotransmitter pathways. Recently, it was shown that activation of GPR103 by its ligand QRFP induced feeding, locomotor activity, and metabolic rate, and QRFP is bioactive in adipose tissue of obese individuals. Given that the adrenal gland is a pivotal organ for energy balance and homeostasis, we hypothesized that GPR103 and QRFP are involved in steroidogenic responses. Using qRT-PCR and immunohistochemistry, we mapped both GPR103 and QRFP in human fetal and adult adrenal gland as well as rat adrenals. Both were primarily localized in the adrenal cortex but not in the medulla. Activation of GPR103 in human adrenocortical H295R cells led to a decrease in forskolin-increased cAMP and an increase of intracellular Ca2+ levels. In addition, treatment of H295R cells with QRFP induced aldosterone and cortisol secretion as measured by ELISA. These increases were accompanied by increased expression and activity of StAR, CYB11B1, and CYP11B2 as assessed by qRT-PCR and luciferase reporter assay, respectively. Using specific inhibitors, we also demonstrated that aldosterone induction involves MAPK, PKC, and/or T-type Ca2+ channel-dependent pathways. These novel data demonstrate that QRFP induces adrenal steroidogenesis in vitro by regulating key steroidogenic enzymes involving MAPK/PKC and Ca2+ signaling pathways.
Higher activation of autophagy in skeletal muscle of mice during endurance exercise in the fasted state
Authors: Jamart Cécile , Naslain Damien , Gilson Hélène , Francaux Marc
Published: August 2013

Activation of autophagy in skeletal muscle has been reported in response to endurance exercise and food deprivation independently. The purpose of this study was to evaluate whether autophagy was more activated when both stimuli were combined, namely when endurance exercise was performed in a fasted rather than a fed state. Mice performed a low-intensity running exercise (10 m/min for 90min) in both dietary states after which the gastrocnemius muscles were removed. LC3b-II, a marker of autophagosome presence, increased in both conditions, but the increase was higher in the fasted state. Other protein markers of autophagy, like Gabarapl1-II and Atg12 conjugated form as well as mRNA of Lc3b, Gabarapl1, and p62/Sqstm1 were increased only when exercise was performed in a fasted state. The larger activation of autophagy by exercise in a fasted state was associated with a larger decrease in plasma insulin and phosphorylation of AktSer473, AktThr308, FoxO3aThr32, and ULK1Ser757. AMPKαThr172, ULK1Ser317, and ULK1Ser555remained unchanged in both conditions, whereas p38Thr180/Tyr182increased during exercise to a similar extent in the fasted and fed conditions. The marker of mitochondrial fission DRP1Ser616was increased by exercise independently of the nutritional status. Changes in mitophagy markers BNIP3 and Parkin suggest that mitophagy was increased during exercise in the fasted state. In conclusion, our results highlight a major implication of the insulin-Akt-mTOR pathway and its downstream targets FoxO3a and ULK1 in the larger activation of autophagy observed when exercise is performed in a fasted state compared with a fed state.
Acute and potentially persistent effects of scuba diving on the blood transcriptome of experienced divers
Authors: Eftedal Ingrid , Ljubkovic Marko , Flatberg Arnar , Jørgensen Arve , Brubakk Alf O. , Dujic Zeljko
Published: August 2013

During scuba diving, the circulatory system is stressed by an elevated partial pressure of oxygen while the diver is submerged and by decompression-induced gas bubbles on ascent to the surface. This diving-induced stress may trigger decompression illness, but the majority of dives are asymptomatic. In this study we have mapped divers' blood transcriptomes with the aim of identifying genes, biological pathways, and cell types perturbed by the physiological stress in asymptomatic scuba diving. Ten experienced divers abstained from diving for >2 wk before performing a 3-day series of daily dives to 18 m depth for 47 min while breathing compressed air. Blood for microarray analysis was collected before and immediately after the first and last dives, and 10 matched nondivers provided controls for predive stationary transcriptomes. MetaCore GeneGo analysis of the predive samples identified stationary upregulation of genes associated with apoptosis, inflammation, and innate immune responses in the divers, most significantly involving genes in the TNFR1 pathway of caspase-dependent apoptosis, HSP60/HSP70 signaling via TLR4, and NF-κB-mediated transcription. Diving caused pronounced shifts in transcription patterns characteristic of specific leukocytes, with downregulation of genes expressed by CD8+ T lymphocytes and NK cells and upregulation of genes expressed by neutrophils, monocytes, and macrophages. Antioxidant genes were upregulated. Similar transient responses were observed after the first and last dive. The results indicate that sublethal oxidative stress elicits the myeloid innate immune system in scuba diving and that extensive diving may cause persistent change in pathways controlling apoptosis, inflammation, and innate immune responses.
Adaption and Application of the Four Phase Trials to Traditional Chinese Medicines
Authors: Di M. Y. , Tang J. L.
Published: August 2013

Four phases of trial are widely used in testing drugs, surgery, and diagnosis in Western medicine (WM). The staged testing process helps protect patients from unnecessary harms and control costs while assessing safety and efficacy. In this paper we adapt the four phase trials for traditional Chinese medicine (TCM). As TCM has been used in humans for thousands of years and there has been good preliminary clinical evidence on safety and efficacy for many of its therapies, in most cases its evaluation can start directly in humans, and preclinical laboratory research can be conducted in phase 4 trials after the efficacy is firmly demonstrated. Furthermore, unlike investigational drugs, TCM therapies are various in the certainty of their safety and efficacy and thus should not enter the evaluation process at the same stage. Unlike in WM, clarifying and refining PICO (patients, intervention, comparator, and outcome) are an important part of evaluation of newly designed TCM therapies. The incommensurability between WM and TCM causes additional difficulties in TCM trials regarding defining and choosing PICO, for which some suggestions are made. Observational studies seem to have a greater role in evaluation for TCM although the efficacy must be confirmed with randomized trials.
Treatment of Slaughter House Wastewater in a Sequencing Batch Reactor: Performance Evaluation and Biodegradation Kinetics
Authors: Kundu Pradyut , Debsarkar Anupam , Mukherjee Somnath
Published: August 2013

Slaughterhouse wastewater contains diluted blood, protein, fat, and suspended solids, as a result the organic and nutrient concentration in this wastewater is vary high and the residues are partially solubilized, leading to a highly contaminating effect in riverbeds and other water bodies if the same is let off untreated. The performance of a laboratory-scale Sequencing Batch Reactor (SBR) has been investigated in aerobic-anoxic sequential mode for simultaneous removal of organic carbon and nitrogen from slaughterhouse wastewater. The reactor was operated under three different variations of aerobic-anoxic sequence, namely, (4+4), (5+3), and (3+5) hr. of total react period with two different sets of influent soluble COD (SCOD) and ammonia nitrogen (NH4+-N) level1000±50 mg/L, and90±10 mg/L,1000±50 mg/L and180±10 mg/L, respectively. It was observed that from 86 to 95% of SCOD removal is accomplished at the end of 8.0 hr of total react period. In case of (4+4) aerobic-anoxic operating cycle, a reasonable degree of nitrification 90.12 and 74.75% corresponding to initialNH4+-N value of 96.58 and 176.85 mg/L, respectively, were achieved. The biokinetic coefficients (k,Ks,Y,kd) were also determined for performance evaluation of SBR for scaling full-scale reactor in future operation.
Antimelanoma and Antityrosinase from Alpinia galangal Constituents
Authors: Lo Chih-Yu , Liu Po-Len , Lin Li-Ching , Chen Yen-Ting , Hseu You-Cheng , Wen Zhi-Hong , Wang Hui-Min
Published: August 2013

Two compounds, 1,7‐bis(4‐hydroxyphenyl)‐1,4,6‐heptatrien‐3‐one (BHPHTO) and bisdemethoxycurcumin (BDMC) they have been isolated from the rhizomes of Alpinia galangal, and the structures of both pure constituents were determined using spectroscopic analyses. The study examined the bioeffectivenesses of the two compounds on the human melanoma A2058 and showed that significantly inhibited the proliferation of melanoma cells in the cell viability assay. This research was also taken on the tests to B16‐F10 cell line and showed minor inhibitory consequences of cellular tyrosinase activities and melanin contents. Our results revealed the anticancer effects of A. galangal compounds, and therefore, the target compounds could be potentially applied in the therapeutic application and the food industry.
Some New Perspectives on Global Domination in Graphs
Authors: Vaidya S. K. , Pandit R. M.
Published: August 2013

A dominating set is called a global dominating set if it is a dominating set of a graph G and its complement G¯. Here we explore the
possibility to relate the domination number of graph G and the global
domination number of the larger graph obtained from G by means of
various graph operations. In this paper we consider the following problem: Does the global domination number remain invariant under any graph operations? We present an affirmative answer to this problem and establish several results.
Role of SH Levels and Markers of Immune Response in the Stroke
Authors: Musumeci Maria , Sotgiu Stefano , Persichilli Silvia , Arru Giannina , Angeletti Silvia , Fois Maria Laura , Minucci Angelo , Musumeci Salvatore
Published: August 2013

Background.Sulfhydryl groups (SH) are considered a key factor in redox sensitive reaction of plasma, and their modification could be considered an expression of abnormal generation of oxygen free radicals.Methods.Fifty consecutive patients with acute brain stroke were enclosed in this study. The plasma concentrations of SH groups were correlated to cytokines (IL-1b, IL-6, IL-8, TNF-α), plasma chitotriosidase (Chit), metalloprotease (MMP2–9), intercellular adhesion molecule-1 (ICAM-1).Results.The results demonstrated a significant reduction of SH groups within 24 hours from the onset of an acute ischemic stroke, a reduction of plasma IL-1b, IL-6, and IL-8, and an increase of Chit and TNF-αin relation to the stroke severity.Conclusion.The observation of an intense microenvironment activation that follows the stroke and the correlation between SH levels and markers of immune response suggest that, especially in stroke, is necessary to maintain the redox function to prevent the brain damage. The reduced SH levels represent an attempt to neutralize the abnormal generation of free radicals. Since the reperfusion of brain after ischemic event represents a severe oxidative stress, which must be corrected by regeneration of redox sensitive function, pharmacological intervention could be beneficial in this setting.
Thermal, Electrical, and Optical Properties of Synthesized (1E, 2E)‐(4‐bromophenyl)(hydroxyimino)acetaldehyde Oxime Complexes
Authors: Karapinar Emin , Karabulut Orhan , Karapinar Nazan
Published: August 2013

The (1E, 2E)‐(4‐bromophenyl)(hydroxyimino)acetaldehyde oxime complexes, [ML2], M = Co(II), Cu(II), and Ni(II), were synthesized and characterized by elemental analysis, magnetic susceptibility, FT‐IR spectra, and thermal analysis techniques. The optical band gap of this ligand and its complexes were determined by UV‐vis spectrophotometer in the wavelength range 300–800 nm. A decrease in the energy band gap of the [CoL2], [NiL2], and [CuL2] complexes has been observed compared with LH ligand. Temperature‐dependent conductivity measurements showed that all samples behave like semiconductor. Activation energies calculated from Arrhenius plots showed that the conduction occurs via both intramolecular and the intermolecular processes.
An In Vitro Evaluation of the Biological Effects of Carbon Nanotube-Coated Dental Zirconia
Authors: Kou Wen , Akasaka Tsukasa , Watari Fumio , Sjögren Göran
Published: August 2013

The purpose of this study is to evaluate functionalized multiwalled carbon nanotubes (fMWCNTs) as a potential coating material for dental zirconia from a biological perspective: its effect on cell proliferation, viability, morphology, and the attachment of an osteoblast-like cell. Osteoblast-like (Saos-2) cells were seeded on uncoated and fMWCNT-coated zirconia discs and in culture dishes that served as controls. The seeding density was 104 cells/cm2, and the cells were cultured for 6 days. Cell viability, proliferation and attachment of the Saos-2 cells were studied. The results showed that Saos-2 cells were well attached to both the uncoated and the fMWCNT-coated zirconia discs. Cell viability and proliferation on the fMWCNT-coated zirconia discs were almost the same as for the control discs. Better cell attachment was seen on the fMWCNT-coated than on the uncoated zirconia discs. In conclusion, fMWCNTs seem to be a promising coating material for zirconia-based ceramic surfaces to increase the roughness and thereby enhance the osseointegration of zirconia implants.
Axial-Compressive Behavior, Including Kink-Band Formation and Propagation, of Singlep-Phenylene Terephthalamide (PPTA) Fibers
Authors: Grujicic M. , Ramaswami S. , Snipes J. S. , Yavari R. , Yen C.-F. , Cheeseman B. A.
Published: August 2013

The mechanical response ofp-phenylene terephthalamide (PPTA) single fibers when subjected to uniaxial compression is investigated computationally using coarse-grained molecular statics/dynamics methods. In order to construct the coarse-grained PPTA model (specifically, in order to define the nature of the coarse-grained particles/beads and to parameterize various components of the bead/bead force-field functions), the results of an all-atom molecular-level computational investigation are used. In addition, the microstructure/topology of the fiber core, consisting of a number of coaxial crystalline fibrils, is taken into account. Also, following our prior work, various PPTA crystallographic/topological defects are introduced into the model (at concentrations consistent with the prototypical PPTA synthesis/processing conditions). The analysis carried out clearly revealed (a) formation of the kink bands during axial compression; (b) the role of defects in promoting the formation of kink bands; (c) the stimulating effects of some defects on the fiber-fibrillation process; and (d) the detrimental effect of the prior compression, associated with fiber fibrillation, on the residual longitudinal-tensile strength of the PPTA fibers.
On Generalized Carleson Operators of Periodic Wavelet Packet Expansions
Authors: Lal Shyam , Kumar Manoj
Published: August 2013

Three new theorems based on the generalized Carleson operators for the periodic Walsh‐type wavelet packets have been established. An application of these theorems as convergence a.e. for the periodic Walsh‐type wavelet packet expansion of block function with the help of summation by arithmetic means has been studied.
New Subclasses of Biunivalent Functions Involving Dziok-Srivastava Operator
Authors: Aouf M. K. , El-Ashwah R. M. , Abd-Eltawab Ahmed M.
Published: August 2013

We introduce two new subclasses of biunivalent functions which are defined by using the Dziok-Srivastava operator. Furthermore, we find estimates on the coefficients and for functions in these new subclasses.
Concurrent Presentation of Hodgkin Lymphoma and Multiple Myeloma
Authors: Chandran Rekha , Simon Miklos , Spurgeon Stephen E.
Published: August 2013

The simultaneous presentation of the Hodgkin lymphoma and multiple myeloma in the absence of prior chemotherapy or radiation is very rare. Here, we discuss a 72-year-old patient who initially presented with generalized pruritis. Workup led to a diagnosis of multiple myeloma which progressed and required treatment. As part of his pretreatment workup, an MRI was performed to evaluate skeletal lesions. This revealed diffuse and bulky adenopathy which was confirmed by PET. A biopsy of an axillary node was consistent with the nodular sclerosing type Hodgkin lymphoma. He was treated with adriamycin, bleomycin, vinblastine, and dacarbazine (ABVD) chemotherapy × 6 resulting in complete resolution of his adenopathy and pruritis as well as improvement in his myeloma.
Impacts of Intensified Agriculture Developments on Marsh Wetlands
Authors: Luan Zhaoqing , Zhou Demin
Published: August 2013

A spatiotemporal analysis on the changes in the marsh landscape in the Honghe National Nature Reserve, a Ramsar reserve, and the surrounding farms in the core area of the Sanjiang Plain during the past 30 years was conducted by integrating field survey work with remote sensing techniques. The results indicated that intensified agricultural development had transformed a unique natural marsh landscape into an agricultural landscape during the past 30 years. Ninety percent of the natural marsh wetlands have been lost, and the areas of the other natural landscapes have decreased very rapidly. Most dry farmland had been replaced by paddy fields during the progressive change of the natural landscape to a farm landscape. Attempts of current Chinese institutions in preserving natural wetlands have achieved limited success. Few marsh wetlands have remained healthy, even after the establishment of the nature reserve. Their ecological qualities have been declining in response to the increasing threats to the remaining wetland habitats. Irrigation projects play a key role in such threats. Therefore, the sustainability of the natural wetland ecosystems is being threatened by increased regional agricultural development which reduced the number of wetland ecotypes and damaged the ecological quality.
Design of Formed Milling Cutter for Double-Helix Screw Based on Noninstantaneous Envelope Method
Authors: Li Yun , Fan Jinwei , Wang Xiaofeng , Liu Yongjun
Published: August 2013

The design theory and method of formed milling cutter for double-helix screw of progressing cavity pump are presented. Through analyzing the shape and characteristic parameters of double-helix screw, the helicoids equation and axial curve equation of double-helix screw were established. According to the relative position relations between formed milling cutter and double-helix screw in the machining process, the geometric mapping relationship of screw coordinate system and formed milling cutter coordinate system was established by using the coordinate transformation theory. Based on noninstantaneous envelope method and the meshing conditions between formed milling cutter and double-helix screw, the contact line equations were established by minimum value method. By analyzing the machining errors caused by resharpening the formed milling cutter, the tooth back curve equation was established based on spiral of Archimedes, and the profile equation of formed milling cutter with constant back angle was got. On this basis, the formed milling cutter of processing double-helix screw was designed, and the cutter head and tool post were manufactured, respectively. The measuring results have shown that this method can satisfy the requirements of machining accuracy for double-helix screw. So this is an effective method to get formed milling cutter profile for double-helix screw.
QCD Thermodynamics on the Lattice
Authors: Sharma Sayantan
Published: August 2013

A remarkable progress has been made in the understanding of the hot and dense QCD matter using lattice gauge theory. The issues which are very well understood as well as those which require both conceptual and algorithmic advances are highlighted. The recent lattice results on QCD thermodynamics which are important in the context of the heavy ion experiments are reviewed. Instances of greater synergy between the lattice theory and the experiments in the recent years are discussed where lattice results could be directly used as benchmarks for experiments, and results from the experiments would be a crucial input for lattice computations.
PKC-Dependent Signaling Pathways within PAG and Thalamus Contribute to the Nitric Oxide-Induced Nociceptive Behavior
Authors: Galeotti Nicoletta , Ghelardini Carla
Published: August 2013

Nitric oxide (NO) is an important molecule involved in nociceptive processing in the central nervous system. The release of NO within the spinal cord has long been implicated in the mechanisms underlying exaggerated pain sensitivity, and administration of NO donors can induce hyperalgesia. To elucidate the supraspinal mechanism responsible for NO-induced nociceptive hypersensitivity, we investigated the modulation of protein kinase C (PKC) and downstream effectors following treatment with the NO donors nitroglycerin and sodium nitroprusside. Both compounds induced a prolonged cold allodynia and heat hyperalgesia, increased levels of c-Fos and IL-1β, and activated NF-κB within periaqueductal grey matter and thalamus. Simultaneously, an increased expression and phosphorylation of PKC γ and ε were detected. To clarify the cellular mechanism involved in the NO-induced hypernociception, we examined the expression of transcription factors that act as PKC downstream effectors. A dramatic hyperphosphorylation of CREB and STAT1 was observed. The i.c.v. administration of the PKC blocker calphostin C prevented the NO-induced hypernociception, the hyperphosphorylation of CREB and STAT1, and partially reduced NF-κB activation. Conversely, the increase of IL-1β was unmodified by calphostin C. These results suggest the relevance of cerebral PKC-mediated CREB and STAT1 activation in the NO donor-induced nociceptive behavior.
Performance Evaluation of DSC Windows for Buildings
Authors: Kang Jun-Gu , Kim Jin-Hee , Kim Jun-Tae
Published: August 2013

Interest in BIPV systems with dye-sensitized solar cells (DSCs) that can replace building windows has increased for zero energy buildings. Although DSCs have lower efficiency in terms of electricity generation than silicon solar cells, they allow light transmission and application of various colors; they also have low production costs, which make them especially suitable for BIPV systems. DSC research is interdisciplinary, involving electrical, chemical, material, and metal engineering. A considerable amount of research has been conducted on increasing the electrical efficiency of DSC and their modules. However, there has not been sufficient research on building applications of DSC systems. The aim of this study is to evaluate the optical performance and thermal performance of DSC windows in buildings. For this study, DSC experimental models with different thicknesses and dye colors were manufactured, and their optical properties, such as transmittance and reflectivity, were measured by a spectrometer. The thermal and optical characteristics of double-glazed windows with DSC were analyzed with a window performance analysis program, WINDOW 6.0.
Evidence for the Primo Vascular System above the Epicardia of Rat Hearts
Authors: Lee Ho-Sung , Lee Jeong Yim , Kang Dae-In , Kim Se Hoon , Lee Inhyung , Park Sang Hyun , Yoon Seung Zhoo , Ryu Yeon Hee , Lee Byung-Cheon
Published: August 2013

We for the first time reported evidence for the existence of a novel network, a PVS, abovethe epicardium of the rat heart. (1) We were consecutively able to visualize the PVs and the PNs above the epicardial spaces of five rats’ hearts by using Cr-Hx spraying or injection. (2) Hematoxylin and eosin (H&E) and toluidine blue staining of the PVs and the PNs showed that they consisted of a basophilic matrix; specifically the PNs contained several mast cells, some of which were degranulating into pericardial space. Also, 4′, 6-diamidino-2 phenylindole (DAPI) images of the PVs and the PNs showed that they contained various kinds of cells. (3) Transmission electron microscopic (TEM) longitudinal image of the PVs showed that the sinuses contained many granules with high-electron-density cores in parallel with putative endothelial cells. (4) TEM images of the PNs demonstrated that they consisted of lumen-containing cells surrounded by fibers and that they had mast cells that were degranulating toward the epicardium of the rat heart. The above data suggest that mast-cells-containing novel network exists above the epicardium of the rat heart.
No Association between FCγR3B Copy Number Variation and Susceptibility to Biopsy-Proven Giant Cell Arteritis
Authors: Dunstan Emma , Lester Sue , Black Rachel , Rischmueller Maureen , Chan Helen , Hewitt Alex W. , Hill Catherine L.
Published: August 2013

Objective. To determine the relationship between FCGR3B gene copy number variation (CNV) and biopsy proven giant cell arteritis (GCA). Methods. FCGR3B CNV was determined in 139 Australian biopsy proven GCA patients and 162 population matched controls, using a duplex qPCR assay and RNase P as the reference gene. Copy number was determined using Copy Caller software (v.1.0, Applied Biosystems, USA). CNV genotypes were classified into 3 groups (<2, 2, 3+) for analysis purposes, and analysis was performed using logistic regression. Results. All GCA patients had a positive temporal artery biopsy, and the most common presenting symptoms were visual disturbance and temporal headache. The mean age of patients at biopsy was 74 years (range 51–94) and 88/139 (63%) were female. The frequency of low (<2) FCGR3B copy number was comparable between GCA patients (9/139=6.5%) and controls (10/162=6.2%), as was the frequency of high (3+) FCGR3B copy number (15/130 (10.8%) in GCA patients versus 13/162 (8.0%) in controls). Overall there was no evidence that FCGR3B CNV frequencies differed between GCA patients and controls (χ2=0.75, df=2, P=0.69). Conclusion. FCGR3B CNV is not associated with GCA; however, replicate studies are required.
HPV Infection: Immunological Aspects and Their Utility in Future Therapy
Authors: Deligeoroglou Efthimios , Giannouli Aikaterini , Athanasopoulos Nikolaos , Karountzos Vasileios , Vatopoulou Anastasia , Dimopoulos Konstantinos , Creatsas George
Published: August 2013

High prevalence and mortality rates of cervical cancer create an imperative need to clarify the uniqueness of HPV (Human Papillomavirus) infection, which serves as the key causative factor in cervical malignancies. Understanding the immunological details and the microenvironment of the infection can be a useful tool for the development of novel therapeutic interventions. Chronic infection and progression to carcinogenesis are sustained by immortalization potential of HPV, evasion techniques, and alterations in the microenvironment of the lesion. Inside the lesion, Toll-like receptors expression becomes irregular; Langerhans cells fail to present the antigens efficiently, tumor-associated macrophages aggregate resulting in an unsuccessful immune response by the host. HPV products also downregulate the expression of microenvironment components which are necessary for natural-killer cells response and antigen presentation to cytotoxic cells. Additionally HPV promotes T-helper cell 2 (Th2) and T-regulatory cell phenotypes and reduces Th1 phenotype, leading to suppression of cellular immunity and lesion progression to cancer. Humoral response after natural infection is inefficient, and neutralizing antibodies are not adequate in many women. Utilizing this knowledge, new endeavors, such as therapeutic vaccination, aim to stimulate cellular immune response against the virus and alter the milieu of the lesion.
Effects of a Diet Enriched with Polyunsaturated, Saturated, or Trans Fatty Acids on Cytokine Content in the Liver, White Adipose Tissue, and Skeletal Muscle of Adult Mice
Authors: dos Santos Bruno , Estadella Debora , Hachul Ana Cláudia Losinskas , Okuda Marcos Hiromu , Moreno Mayara Franzoi , Oyama Lila Missae , Ribeiro Eliane Beraldi , Oller do Nascimento Claudia Maria da Penha
Published: August 2013

This study analyzed the effect of diet enriched with 30% lipids on cytokines content in different tissues. Swiss male mice were distributed into four groups treated for 8 weeks with control (C, normolipidic diet); soybean oil (S); lard (L); and hydrogenated vegetable fat (H). We observed an increase in carcass fat in groups S and L, and the total amount of fatty deposits was only higher in group L compared with C group. The serum levels of free fatty acids were lower in the L group, and insulin, adiponectin, lipid profile, and glucose levels were similar among the groups. IL-10 was lower in group L in mesenteric and retroperitoneal adipose tissues. H reduced IL-10 only in retroperitoneal adipose tissue. There was an increase in IL-6 in the gastrocnemius muscle of the L group, and a positive correlation between TNF-αand IL-10 was observed in the livers of groups C, L, and H and in the muscles of all groups studied. The results suggested relationships between the quantity and quality of lipids ingested with adiposity, the concentration of free fatty acids, and cytokine production in white adipose tissue, gastrocnemius muscle, and liver.
Upper Extremity Freezing and Dyscoordination in Parkinson’s Disease: Effects of Amplitude and Cadence Manipulations
Authors: Williams April J. , Peterson Daniel S. , Ionno Michele , Pickett Kristen A. , Earhart Gammon M.
Published: August 2013

Purpose. Motor freezing, the inability to produce effective movement, is associated with decreasing amplitude, hastening of movement, and poor coordination. We investigated how manipulations of movement amplitude and cadence affect upper extremity (UE) coordination as measured by the phase coordination index (PCI)—only previously measured in gait—and freezing of the upper extremity (FO-UE) in people with Parkinson's disease (PD) who experience freezing of gait (PD + FOG), do not experience FOG (PD-FOG), and healthy controls.Methods. Twenty-seven participants with PD and 18 healthy older adults made alternating bimanual movements between targets under four conditions: Baseline; Fast; Small; SmallFast. Kinematic data were recorded and analyzed for PCI and FO-UE events. PCI and FO-UE were compared across groups and conditions. Correlations between UE PCI, gait PCI, FO-UE, and Freezing of Gait Questionnaire (FOG-Q) were determined.Results. PD + FOG had poorer coordination than healthy old during SmallFast. UE coordination correlated with number of FO-UE episodes in two conditions and FOG-Q score in one. No differences existed between PD−/+FOG in coordination or number of FO-UE episodes.Conclusions. Dyscoordination and FO-UE can be elicited by manipulating cadence and amplitude of an alternating bimanual task. It remains unclear whether FO-UE and FOG share common mechanisms.
Facile Postsynthesis of N-Doped TiO2-SBA-15 and Its Photocatalytic Activity
Authors: Thi Thu Phuong Tran , Nguyen Duc Trieu , Duong Tuan Quang , Luc Huy Hoang , Vo Vien
Published: August 2013

N-doped TiO2-SBA-15 (denoted as N-TiO2-SBA-15) material has been successfully synthesized by a two-step procedure. Firstly, TiO2-SBA-15 was prepared by impregnating tetraisopropyl orthotitanate on SBA-15 and followed by calcination at 550°C. In the second step, TiO2-SBA-15 was modified by doping nitrogen with the assistance of urea. The resulting material, N-TiO2-SBA-15, was characterized by XRD, TEM, SEM, N2adsorption/desorption at 77 K, DR UV-Vis, and XPS. The results showed that N-TiO2-SBA-15 material maintains its ordered hexagonal mesostructure and exhibits the absorption of visible region. The photocatalytic activity of N-TiO2-SBA-15 sample was evaluated by the photodegradation of methylene blue under visible light.
Oscillation of a Class of Fractional Differential Equations with Damping Term
Authors: Qin Huizeng , Zheng Bin
Published: August 2013

We investigate the oscillation of a class of fractional differential equations with damping term.
Based on a certain variable transformation, the fractional differential equations are converted into another
differential equations of integer order with respect to the new variable. Then, using Riccati transformation,
inequality, and integration average technique, some new oscillatory criteria for the equations are established.
As for applications, oscillation for two certain fractional differential equations with damping term is investigated by the use of the presented results.
Neoadjuvant Chemotherapy and Targeted Therapy in Breast Cancer: Past, Present, and Future
Authors: Gampenrieder Simon P. , Rinnerthaler Gabriel , Greil Richard
Published: August 2013

Traditionally, neoadjuvant treatment for breast cancer was preserved for locally advanced and inflammatory disease, converting an inoperable to a surgical resectable cancer. In recent years, neoadjuvant therapy has become an accepted treatment option also for lower tumor stages in order to increase the rate of breast conserving therapy and to reduce the extent of surgery. Furthermore, treatment response can be monitored, and therefore, patient compliance may be increased. Neoadjuvant trials, additionally, offer the opportunity to evaluate new treatment options in a faster way and with fewer patients than large adjuvant trials. Compared to the metastatic setting, the issue of acquired resistance and pretreatments, which may distort treatment efficacy, can be avoided. New trial designs likewindow-of-opportunitytrials orpostneoadjuvanttrials provide the chance to identify tumor sensitivity or to overcome tumor resistance in early tumor stages. In particular, in HER2-positive breast cancer, the neoadjuvant approach yielded great successes. The dual HER2 blockade with trastuzumab and pertuzumab recently showed the highest pCR rates ever reported. Many new drugs are in clinical testing with the aim to further increase pCR rates. Whether this endpoint really represents a surrogate for long-term outcome is not answered yet and will be discussed in this review.
Downregulation of NOX4 Expression by Roflumilast N-Oxide Reduces Markers of Fibrosis in Lung Fibroblasts
Authors: Vecchio Daniela , Acquaviva Alessandra , Arezzini Beatrice , Tenor Hermann , Martorana Piero A. , Gardi Concetta
Published: August 2013

The phosphodiesterase 4 inhibitor roflumilast prevents bleomycin- (BLM-) induced lung fibrosis in animal models. However, its mechanism of action remains unknown. We investigated whether roflumilast N-oxide (RNO), the active metabolite of roflumilast, can modulatein vitrothe oxidative effects of BLM on human lung fibroblasts (HLF). In addition, since BLM increases the production of F2-isoprostanes that haveper sefibrogenic activity, the effect of RNO on oxidative stress and fibrogenesis induced by the F2-isoprostane 8-epi-PGF2αwas investigated. HLF were preincubated either with the vehicle or with RNO and exposed to either BLM or 8-epi-PGF2α. Proliferation and collagen synthesis were assessed as [3H]-thymidine and [3H]-proline incorporation. Reactive oxygen species (ROS) and F2-isoprostanes were measured. NADPH oxidase 4 (NOX4) protein and mRNA were also evaluated. BLM increased both cell proliferation and collagen synthesis and enhanced ROS and F2-isoprostane production. These effects were significantly prevented by RNO. Also, RNO significantly reduced the increase in both NOX4 mRNA and protein, induced by BLM. Finally, 8-epi-PGF2α  per sestimulated HLF proliferation, collagen synthesis, and NOX4 expression and ROS generation, and RNO prevented these effects. Thus, the antifibrotic effect of RNO observedin vivomay be related to its ability to mitigate ROS generation via downregulation of NOX4.
Co(II) and Cd(II) Complexes Derived from Heterocyclic Schiff‐Bases: Synthesis, Structural Characterisation, and Biological Activity
Authors: Ahmed Riyadh M. , Yousif Enaam I. , Al-Jeboori Mohamad J.
Published: August 2013

New monomeric cobalt and cadmium complexes with Schiff‐bases, namely, N′‐[(E)‐(3‐hydroxy‐4‐methoxyphenyl)methylidene]furan‐2‐carbohydrazide (L1) and N′‐[(E)‐(3‐hydroxy‐4‐methoxyphenyl)methylidene]thiophene‐2‐carbohydrazide (L2) are reported. Schiff‐base ligands L1 and L2 were derived from condensation of 3‐hydroxy‐4‐methoxybenzaldehyde (iso‐vanillin) with furan‐2‐carboxylic acid hydrazide and thiophene‐2‐carboxylic acid hydrazide, respectively. Complexes of the general formula [M(L)2]Cl2 (where M = Co(II) or Cd(II), L = L1 or L2) have been obtained from the reaction of the corresponding metal chloride with the ligands. The ligands and their metal complexes were characterised by spectroscopic methods (FTIR, UV‐Vis, 1H, and 13C NMR spectra), elemental analysis, metal content, magnetic measurement, and conductance. These studies revealed the formation of four‐coordinate complexes in which the geometry about metal ion is tetrahedral. Biological activity of the ligands and their metal complexes against gram positive bacterial strain Bacillus (G+) and gram negative bacteria Pseudomonas (G−) revealed that the metal complexes become less resistive to the microbial activities as compared to the free ligands.
The SDF-1α3′A Genetic Variation Is Correlated with Susceptibility of Asthma in Iranian Patients
Authors: Rafatpanah Houshang , Amin Masoud , Ghasemshirazi Mohsen , Kazemiarababadi Mohammad , Khorramdelazad Hossein , Abousaidi Hamid , Shabani Ziba , Sayadi Ahmadreza , Hassanshahi Gholamhossein , Samadi Jamile
Published: August 2013

Background and Aim.Chemokine/receptor axis is a predominant actor of clinical disorders. They are key factors of pathogenesis of almost all clinical situations including asthma. Correspondingly, CXCL12 is involved in the immune responses. Therefore, this study was designed to explore the association between gene polymorphism at position +801 of CXCL12, known asSDF-1α3′A, and susceptibility to asthma in Iranian patients.Material and Methods.In this experimental study, samples were taken from 162 asthma patients and 189 healthy controls on EDTA. DNA was extracted and analyzed for CXCL12 polymorphisms using PCR-RLFP. The demographic information was also collected in parallel with the experimental part of the study by a questionnaire which was designed specifically for this study.Findings.Our results indicated a significant difference (P<0.0001) between theA/A,A/G, andG/Ggenotypes andAandGalleles of polymorphisms at position +801 of CXCL12. We also showed an elevated level of CXCL12 circulating level in Iranian asthma patients.Conclusion.Our findings suggest thatSDF-1α3′A(CXCL12) polymorphism plays a role in pathogenesis of asthma. It can also be concluded that circulatory level of CXCL12 presumably can be used as one of the pivotal biological markers in diagnosis of asthma.
Microscale Obstacle Resolving Air Quality Model Evaluation with the Michelstadt Case
Authors: Rakai Anikó , Kristóf Gergely
Published: August 2013

Modelling pollutant dispersion in cities is challenging for air quality models as the urban obstacles have an important effect on the flow field and thus the dispersion. Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) models with an additional scalar dispersion transport equation are a possible way to resolve the flowfield in the urban canopy and model dispersion taking into consideration the effect of the buildings explicitly. These models need detailed evaluation with the method of verification and validation to gain confidence in their reliability and use them as a regulatory purpose tool in complex urban geometries. This paper shows the performance of an open source general purpose CFD code, OpenFOAM for a complex urban geometry, Michelstadt, which has both flow field and dispersion measurement data. Continuous release dispersion results are discussed to show the strengths and weaknesses of the modelling approach, focusing on the value of the turbulent Schmidt number, which was found to give best statistical metric results with a value of 0.7.
Rapid 3D Modeling and Parts Recognition on Automotive Vehicles Using a Network of RGB-D Sensors for Robot Guidance
Authors: Chávez-Aragón Alberto , Macknojia Rizwan , Payeur Pierre , Laganière Robert
Published: August 2013

This paper presents an approach for the automatic detection and fast 3D profiling of lateral body panels of vehicles. The work introduces a method to integrate raw streams from depth sensors in the task of 3D profiling and reconstruction and a methodology for the extrinsic calibration of a network of Kinect sensors. This sensing framework is intended for rapidly providing a robot with enough spatial information to interact with automobile panels using various tools. When a vehicle is positioned inside the defined scanning area, a collection of reference parts on the bodywork are automatically recognized from a mosaic of color images collected by a network of Kinect sensors distributed around the vehicle and a global frame of reference is set up. Sections of the depth information on one side of the vehicle are then collected, aligned, and merged into a global RGB-D model. Finally, a 3D triangular mesh modelling the body panels of the vehicle is automatically built. The approach has applications in the intelligent transportation industry, automated vehicle inspection, quality control, automatic car wash systems, automotive production lines, and scan alignment and interpretation.
A Hybrid Security Mechanism for Intra-WBAN and Inter-WBAN Communications
Authors: Irum Sarah , Ali Aftab , Khan Farrukh Aslam , Abbas Haider
Published: August 2013

The emerging wireless body area networks (WBANs) have a great potential for the growth and development of future ubiquitous healthcare systems. However, due to the use of unreliable wireless media, WBANs are exposed to a variety of attacks. The prevention of these attacks depends upon the cryptographic techniques. The strength of cryptography is based on the keys used for encryption and decryption in the communication process. Security is still an alarming challenge for WBANs and needs attention of the research community. The proposed work introduces a hybrid key management scheme for both intra-WBAN and inter-WBAN communications. The proposed technique is based on preloaded keys as well as keys automatically generated from biometrics of the human body. The biometric-based calculations are of linear time complexity to cater the strict resource constraints and security requirements of WBANs. The proposed security mechanism provides an efficient solution for the security of both intra-WBAN and inter-WBAN communications. The results of the proposed technique are compared with an existing key management technique known as BARI+. The results show significant improvement over the results produced by BARI+ in terms of storage, communication, energy overhead, and security.
Very Late Bare Metal Stent Thrombosis
Authors: Soto Herrera Mariana , Restrepo José A. , Felipe Buitrago Andrés , Gómez Mejía Mabel , Díaz Jesús H.
Published: August 2013

Very late stent thrombosis is a rare and not-well-understood complication after bare metal stent implantation. It usually presents as an ST elevation acute coronary syndrome and it is associated with high rates of morbidity and mortality. Pathophysiologic mechanisms are not well defined; nevertheless, recent studies have proposed a neoatherosclerotic process as the triggering mechanism. We present the case of a patient with bare metal very late stent thrombosis 12 years after implantation.
Evaluation of a Thiolated Chitosan Scaffold for Local Delivery of BMP-2 for Osteogenic Differentiation and Ectopic Bone Formation
Authors: Bae In-Ho , Jeong Byung-Chul , Kook Min-Suk , Kim Sun-Hun , Koh Jeong-Tae
Published: August 2013

Thiolated chitosan (Thio-CS) is a well-established pharmaceutical excipient for drug delivery. However, its use as a scaffold for bone formation has not been investigated. The aim of this study was to evaluate the potential of Thio-CS in bone morphogenetic protein-2 (BMP-2) delivery and bone formation.In vitrostudy showed that BMP-2 interacted with the Thio-CS and did not affect the swelling behavior. The release kinetics of BMP-2 from the Thio-CS was slightly delayed (70%) within 7 days compared with that from collagen gel (Col-gel, 85%), which is widely used in BMP-2 delivery. The BMP-2 released from Thio-CS increased osteoblastic cell differentiation but did not show any cytotoxicity until 21 days. Analysis of thein vivoectopic bone formation at 4 weeks of posttransplantation showed that use of Thio-CS for BMP-2 delivery induced more bone formation to a greater extent (1.8 fold) than that of Col-gel. However, bone mineral density in both bones was equivalent, regardless of Thio-CS or Col-gel carrier. Taken together, Thio-CS system might be useful for delivering osteogenic protein BMP-2 and present a promising bone regeneration strategy.
Infodemiology and Infoveillance of Multiple Sclerosis in Italy
Authors: Bragazzi Nicola Luigi
Published: August 2013

Multiple Sclerosis (MS) is a chronic debilitating disease of probable autoimmune inflammatory nature, whose aetiology is not fully understood, despite the many efforts and investigations. In this manuscript, we review the concept of “Multiple Sclerosis 2.0”, that is to say the Internet usage by MS patients, for seeking health and disease-related material for self-care and self-management purposes, and we introduce a Google Trends-based approach for monitoring MS-related Google queries and searches, called MS infodemiology and infoveillance. Google Trends has already proven to be reliable for infectious diseases monitoring, and here we extend its application and potentiality in the field of neurological disorders.