bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Cutaneous reflex modulation and self-induced reflex attenuation in cerebellar patients
Authors: Hoogkamer Wouter , Van Calenbergh Frank , Swinnen Stephan P. , Duysens Jacques
Published: November 2014

Modulation of cutaneous reflexes is important in the neural control of walking, yet knowledge about underlying neural pathways is still incomplete. Recent studies have suggested that the cerebellum is involved. Here we evaluated the possible roles of the cerebellum in cutaneous reflex modulation and in attenuation of self-induced reflexes. First we checked whether leg muscle activity during walking was similar in patients with focal cerebellar lesions and in healthy control subjects. We then recorded cutaneous reflex activity in leg muscles during walking. Additionally, we compared reflexes after standard (computer triggered) stimuli with reflexes after self-induced stimuli for both groups. Biceps femoris and gastrocnemius medialis muscle activity was increased in the patient group compared with the control subjects, suggesting a coactivation strategy to reduce instability of gait. Cutaneous reflex modulation was similar between healthy control subjects and cerebellar patients, but the latter appeared less able to attenuate reflexes to self-induced stimuli. This suggests that the cerebellum is not primarily involved in cutaneous reflex modulation but that it could act in attenuation of self-induced reflex responses. The latter role in locomotion would be consistent with the common view that the cerebellum predicts sensory consequences of movement.
Hedgehog pathway blockade with the cancer drug LDE225 disrupts taste organs and taste sensation
Authors: Kumari Archana , Ermilov Alexandre N. , Allen Benjamin L. , Bradley Robert M. , Dlugosz Andrzej A. , Mistretta Charlotte M.
Published: November 2014

Taste sensation on the anterior tongue requires chorda tympani nerve function and connections with continuously renewing taste receptor cells. However, it is unclear which signaling pathways regulate the receptor cells to maintain chorda tympani sensation. Hedgehog (HH) signaling controls cell proliferation and differentiation in numerous tissues and is active in taste papillae and taste buds. In contrast, uncontrolled HH signaling drives tumorigenesis, including the common skin cancer, basal cell carcinoma. Systemic HH pathway inhibitors (HPIs) lead to basal cell carcinoma regression, but these drugs cause severe taste disturbances. We tested the hypothesis that taste disruption by HPIs reflects a direct requirement for HH signaling in maintaining taste organs and gustatory sensation. In mice treated with the HPI LDE225 up to 28 days, HH-responding cells were lost in fungiform papilla epithelium, and papillae acquired a conical apex. Taste buds were either absent or severely reduced in size in more than 90% of aberrant papillae. Taste bud remnants expressed the taste cell marker keratin 8, and papillae retained expression of nerve markers, neurofilament and P2X3. Chorda tympani nerve responses to taste stimuli were markedly reduced or absent in LDE225-treated mice. Responses to touch were retained, however, whereas cold responses were retained after 16 days of treatment but lost after 28 days. These data identify a critical, modality-specific requirement for HH signaling in maintaining taste papillae, taste buds and neurophysiological taste function, supporting the proposition that taste disturbances in HPI-treated patients are an on-target response to HH pathway blockade in taste organs.
Litter Fall and Its Decomposition inSapium sebiferumRoxb.: An Invasive Tree Species in Western Himalaya
Authors: Jaryan Vikrant , Uniyal Sanjay Kr. , Gupta R. C. , Singh R. D.
Published: November 2014

Recognizing that high litter fall and its rapid decomposition are key traits of invasive species, litter fall and its decay inSapium sebiferumRoxb. were studied in Palampur. For this, litter traps of dimension 50 × 50 × 50 cm3were placed in under-canopy and canopy gap of the species. Litter fall was monitored monthly and segregated into different components. For litter decay studies, litter bags of dimension 25 × 20 cm2with a mesh size 2 mm were used and the same were analyzed on a fortnightly basis. Litter fall in both under-canopy and canopy gap was highest in November (1.16 Mg ha−1 y−1in under-canopy and 0.38 Mg ha−1 y−1in canopy gap) and lowest during March. Litter production in under-canopy and canopy gap was 4.04 Mg ha−1 y−1and 1.87 Mg ha−1 y−1, respectively. These values are comparable to sal forest (1.7 t C ha−1 y−1), chir pine-mixed forest (2.1 t C ha−1 y−1), and mixed oak-conifer forest (2.8 t C ha−1 y−1) of the Western Himalaya. The decay rate, 0.46% day−1in under-canopy and 0.48% day−1in canopy gap, was also fast. Owing to this the species may be able to modify the habitats to its advantage, as has been reported elsewhere.
The Elastic Constants of the Single Crystal of the Mg-Zn-Zr-REM Alloy from the Data of the Elastic Anisotropy and the Texture of the Polycrystalline Sheet
Authors: San’kova S. V. , Shkatulyak N. M. , Usov V. V. , Volchok N. A.
Published: November 2014

The measuring of the constants of single-crystals requires the availability of crystals of relatively big size. In this paper the elastic constants of the single crystals of magnesium alloy with zinc, zirconium, and rare earth metals (REM) were determined by means of the experimental anisotropy of Young’s modulus and integral characteristics of texture (ICT), which were found from pole figures. Using these constants the anisotropy of Young’s modulus of alloy sheet ZE10 was calculated. Deviation of calculated values from experimental values did not exceed 2%.
Role of Dehalogenases in Aerobic Bacterial Degradation of Chlorinated Aromatic Compounds
Authors: Arora Pankaj Kumar , Bae Hanhong
Published: November 2014

This review was conducted to provide an overview of dehalogenases involved in aerobic biodegradation of chlorinated aromatic compounds. Additionally, biochemical and molecular characterization of hydrolytic, reductive, and oxygenolytic dehalogenases was reviewed. This review will increase our understanding of the process of dehalogenation of chlorinated aromatic compounds.
Factor Analysis of Obstacles Restraining Productivity Improvement Programs in Manufacturing Enterprises in Oman
Authors: Bashir Hamdi A. , Alzebdeh Khalid , Al Riyami Amur M. A.
Published: November 2014

Manufacturing enterprises can face obstacles that make productivity improvement efforts ineffective or even prevent improvement operations. This paper reports on an investigation of the internal obstacles restraining productivity improvement programs in the manufacturing enterprises of developing countries, using Oman as a case study. Data required for this study were collected through a questionnaire given to production and operations managers at 51 manufacturing enterprises in Oman. The results of applying factor analysis to a dataset of 15 obstacles showed that these obstacles can be reduced to three major factors. Ranked according to their importance, these factors are poor management practices, employee job dissatisfaction, and poor human resource management. The findings of this research are of value to production and operations managers of manufacturing enterprises who are interested in conducting productivity improvement programs not only in Oman but also in developing countries with environments similar to that of Oman, such as the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries.
Comparative Study on the Synergistic Action of Differentially Synthesized Silver Nanoparticles with β-Cephem Antibiotics and Chloramphenicol
Authors: Hari Neethu , Thomas Tincy K. , Nair A. Jayakumaran
Published: November 2014

Synergistic activity of cephem antibiotics with silver nanoparticles (Ag NPs) was investigated. Silver nanoparticles were synthesized through biological and chemical method. The combined action of β-lactam cephem antibiotics with both green and chemically synthesized silver nanoparticles enhances the antibacterial activity against wide range of antibiotic resistant pathogens and making them applicable to medical devices and microbial control systems. Synergistic activity of chloramphenicol with silver nanoparticles was also studied.
Judo Economics in Markets with Multiple Firms
Authors: Cracau Daniel , Franz Benjamin
Published: November 2014

We study a sequential Bertrand game with one dominant market incumbent and multiple small entrants selling homogeneous products. Whilst the equilibrium for the case of a single entrant is well known from Gelman and Salop (1983), we derive properties of the N-firm equilibrium and present an algorithm that can be used to calculate this equilibrium. The algorithm is based on a recursive manipulation of polynomials that derive the optimisation problem that each of the market entrants is facing. Using this algorithm we derive the exact equilibrium for the cases of two and three small entrants. For more than three entrants only approximate results are possible. We use numerical results to gain further understanding of the equilibrium for an increasing number of firms and in particular for the case where N diverges to infinity. Similarly to the two-firm Judo equilibrium, we see that a capacity limitation for the small firms is necessary to achieve positive profits.
Comparative Hair Restorer Efficacy of Medicinal Herb on Nude (Foxn1nu) Mice
Authors: Begum Shahnaz , Lee Mi Ra , Gu Li Juan , Hossain Md. Jamil , Kim Hyun Kyoung , Sung Chang Keun
Published: November 2014

Eclipta alba(L.) Hassk,Asiasarum sieboldii(Miq.) F. Maek (Asiasari radix), andPanax ginsengC. A. Mey (red ginseng) are traditionally acclaimed for therapeutic properties of various human ailments. Synergistic effect of each standardized plant extract was investigated for hair growth potential on nude mice, as these mutant mice genetically lack hair due to abnormal keratinization. Dried plant samples were ground and extracted by methanol. Topical application was performed on the back of nude mice daily up to completion of two hair growth generations. The hair density and length ofEclipta albatreated mice were increased significantlyP>0.001than control mice. Hair growth area was also distinctly visible inEclipta albatreated mice. On the other hand,Asiasari radixandPanax ginsengtreated mice developing hair loss were recognized from the abortive boundaries of hair coverage. Histomorphometric observation of nude mice skin samples revealed an increase in number of hair follicles (HFs). The presence of follicular keratinocytes was confirmed by BrdU labeling, S-phase cells in HFs. Therefore,Eclipta albaextract and/or phytochemicals strongly displayed incomparability of hair growth promotion activity than others. Thus, the standardizedEclipta albaextract can be used as an effective, alternative, and complementary treatment against hair loss.
A Rare Case of Right Retrocaval Ureter with Duplication of Infrarenal IVC
Authors: Dudekula Anees , Prabhu Sonali D.
Published: November 2014

Retrocaval ureter, also known as circumcaval ureter, is a rare congenital anomaly which commonly presents with loin pain in middle age group. Here, ureter passes between the inferior vena cava (IVC) and psoas muscle and gets compressed. Duplication of IVC is another rare congenital anomaly in the development of IVC. We present a case of a 49-year-old male who presented with loin pain and upon thorough investigation was found to have retrocaval ureter along with duplication of the infrarenal IVC. We bring forward this rare type of combination of two congenital malformations.
Effect of a Non-Newtonian Load on SignatureS2for Quartz Crystal Microbalance Measurements
Authors: Choi Jae-Hyeok , Kanazawa Kay K. , Cho Nam-Joon
Published: November 2014

The quartz crystal microbalance (QCM) is increasingly used for monitoring the interfacial interaction between surfaces and macromolecules such as biomaterials, polymers, and metals. Recent QCM applications deal with several types of liquids with various viscous macromolecule compounds, which behave differently from Newtonian liquids. To properly monitor such interactions, it is crucial to understand the influence of the non-Newtonian fluid on the QCM measurement response. As a quantitative indicator of non-Newtonian behavior, we used the quartz resonator signature,S2, of the QCM measurement response, which has a consistent value for Newtonian fluids. We then modified De Kee’s non-Newtonian three-parameter model to apply it to our prediction ofS2values for non-Newtonian liquids. As a model, we chose polyethylene glycol (PEG400) with the titration of its volume concentration in deionized water. As the volume concentration of PEG400 increased, theS2value decreased, confirming that the modified De Kee’s three-parameter model can predict the change inS2value. Collectively, the findings presented herein enable the application of the quartz resonator signature,S2, to verify QCM measurement analysis in relation to a wide range of experimental subjects that may exhibit non-Newtonian behavior, including polymers and biomaterials.
Managing Soil Biota-Mediated Decomposition and Nutrient Mineralization in Sustainable Agroecosystems
Authors: Whalen Joann K.
Published: November 2014

Transformation of organic residues into plant-available nutrients occurs through decomposition and mineralization and is mediated by saprophytic microorganisms and fauna. Of particular interest is the recycling of the essential plant elements—N, P, and S—contained in organic residues. If organic residues can supply sufficient nutrients during crop growth, a reduction in fertilizer use is possible. The challenge is synchronizing nutrient release from organic residues with crop nutrient demands throughout the growing season. This paper presents a conceptual model describing the pattern of nutrient release from organic residues in relation to crop nutrient uptake. Next, it explores experimental approaches to measure the physical, chemical, and biological barriers to decomposition and nutrient mineralization. Methods are proposed to determine the rates of decomposition and nutrient release from organic residues. Practically, this information can be used by agricultural producers to determine if plant-available nutrient supply is sufficient to meet crop demands at key growth stages or whether additional fertilizer is needed. Finally, agronomic practices that control the rate of soil biota-mediated decomposition and mineralization, as well as those that facilitate uptake of plant-available nutrients, are identified. Increasing reliance on soil biological activity could benefit crop nutrition and health in sustainable agroecosystems.
Combined Phosphoproteomics and Bioinformatics Strategy in Deciphering Drug Resistant Related Pathways in Triple Negative Breast Cancer
Authors: Deng Xinyu , Kohanfars Morris , Hsu Huan Ming , Souda Puneet , Capri Joe , Whitelegge Julian P. , Chang Helena R.
Published: November 2014

Because of the absence of a clear therapeutic target for triple negative breast cancer (TNBC), conventional chemotherapy is the only available systemic treatment option for these patients. Despite chemotherapy treatment, TNBC patients still have worse prognosis when compared with other breast cancer patients. The study is to investigate unique phosphorylated proteins expressed in chemoresistant TNBC cell lines. In the current study, twelve TNBC cell lines were subjected to drug sensitivity assays against chemotherapy drugs docetaxel, doxorubicin, gemcitabine, and cisplatin. Based on their half maximal inhibitory concentrations, four resistant and two sensitive cell lines were selected for further analysis. The phosphopeptides from these cells were enriched with TiO2 beads and fractionated using strong cation exchange. 1,645 phosphoprotein groups and 9,585 unique phosphopeptides were identified by a high throughput LC-MS/MS system LTQ-Orbitrap. The phosphopeptides were further filtered with Ascore system and 1,340 phosphoprotein groups, 2,760 unique phosphopeptides, and 4,549 unique phosphosites were identified. Our study suggested that differentially phosphorylated Cdk5, PML, AP-1, and HSF-1 might work together to promote vimentin induced epithelial to mesenchymal transition (EMT) in the drug resistant cells. EGFR and HGF were also shown to be involved in this process.
Convergence Analysis of Semi‐Implicit Euler Methods for Solving Stochastic Age‐Dependent Capital System with Variable Delays and Random Jump Magnitudes
Authors: Du Qinghui , Wang Chaoli
Published: November 2014

We consider semi‐implicit Euler methods for stochastic age‐dependent capital system with variable delays and random jump magnitudes, and investigate the convergence of the numerical approximation. It is proved that the numerical approximate solutions converge to the analytical solutions in the mean‐square sense under given conditions.
The Modified Transcanal Approach for Cochlear Implantation: Technique and Results
Authors: Mostafa Badr Eldin , Ezzat Walid Farag , El Mogui Abdel Monem
Published: November 2014

The aim of this work is to present a modified transcanal technique for cochlear implantation. It was a prospective study on 125 cochlear implant patients presenting to two tertiary referral hospitals between January 2010 and January 2013 and followed up for 6–30 months. Their age range was 2–56 (mean 3.4 years) and the male: female ratio was of 2.1 : 1. A modified transcanal technique was adopted through a small postauricular incision. A tympanomeatal flap is elevated, the middle ear is exposed, and the round window membrane is exposed by drilling the overhanging niche. The electrode is channeled in an open trough along the posterosuperior meatal wall, which is reconstructed by autologous cartilage. The round window was used for insertion in 110 patients and a cochleostomy in 15. The main outcome measures were technical steps, operative time, and ease and completeness of electrode insertion. The actual surgical time (excluding device testing) ranged between 25 and 40 minutes (mean 30.1 min). There were 115 complete insertions and 10 partials. There were 6 chorda tympani injuries, 2 electrode exposures with 1 requiring revision, and 2 cases with a tympanic membrane perforation which were grafted uneventfully. One case had severe infection with extrusion of the device 1 year after successful implantation.
A Novel Sintered Stainless Steel Fiber Felt with Rough Surface Morphologies
Authors: Fang Chaobin , Wan Zhenping , Liu Bin , Lu Longsheng
Published: November 2014

A novel sintered stainless steel fiber felt (SSSFF) with rough surface morphologies and high strength as well as high porosity is fabricated by solid-state sintering of stainless steel fibers produced by cutting method. The rough surface morphologies are characterized by laminar and jagged structures formed on the surface of stainless steel fibers. The SSSFF with 85% porosity sintered at 1200°C for 60 min exhibits tensile strength of 19 MPa and yield stress of 10.5 MPa. The influence of sintering parameters on surface morphologies and tensile strength is investigated. The experimental results show that the rough surface structures will disappear gradually when sintering temperature is 1300°C or sintering time is excessive, that is, 240 min when sintering temperature is 1200°C. The SSSFF with high porosity presents high tensile strength when sintering temperature ranges from 1100°C to 1200°C and sintering time is from 60 min to 120 min. In addition, the fracture mechanism of the SSSFF is investigated when subjected to uniaxial tensile load.
Spinal Intramedullary Metastasis of Breast Cancer
Authors: Basaran Recep , Tiryaki Mehmet , Yavuzer Dilek , Efendioglu Mustafa , Balkuv Ece , Sav Aydin
Published: November 2014

Objective.Breast cancer accounts for approximately one-third of all cancers in females. Approximately 8.5 % of all central nervous system metastases are located in the spinal cord. These patients have rapidly progressing neurological deficits and require immediate examination. The aim of surgery is decompression of neural tissue and histological evaluation of the tumor. In this paper, we present a case of breast cancer metastasis in thoracic spinal intramedullary area which had been partially excised and then given adjuvant radiotherapy.Case.A 43-year-old female patient with breast cancer for 8 years was admitted to our hospital with complaints of weakness in both legs. Eight years ago, she received chemotherapy and radiotherapy. On her neurological examination, she had paraparesis (left lower extremity: 2/5, right lower extremity: 3/5) and urinary incontinence. Spinal MRI revealed a gadolinium enhancing intramedullary lesion. Pathologic examination of the lesion was consistent with breast carcinoma metastasis. The patient has been taken into radiotherapy.Conclusion.Spinal intramedullary metastasis of breast cancer is an extremely rare situation, but it has a high morbidity and mortality rate. Microsurgical resection is necessary for preservation or amelioration of neurological state and also for increased life expectancy and quality.
Kinetics and Mechanism of Nanoparticles-Catalyzed Piperidinolysis of Anionic Phenyl Salicylate
Authors: Razak Norazizah Abd. , Khan M. Niyaz
Published: November 2014

The values of the relative counterion (X) binding constantRXBr(=KX/KBr, whereKXandKBrrepresent cetyltrimethylammonium bromide, CTABr, micellar binding constants ofXv-(in non-spherical micelles),v=1,2, and Br−(in spherical micelles)) are 58, 68, 127, and 125 forXv−=1−, 12−, 2−, and22-, respectively. The values of 15 mM CTABr/[NavX] nanoparticles-catalyzed apparent second-order rate constants for piperidinolysis of ionized phenyl salicylate at 35°C are 0.417, 0.488, 0.926, and 0.891 M−1 s−1forNavX= Na1, Na21, Na2, and Na22, respectively. Almost entire catalytic effect of nanoparticles catalyst is due to the ability of nonreactive counterions,Xv-, to expel reactive counterions,3−, from nanoparticles to the bulk water phase.
Increased DJ-1 in Urine Exosome of Korean Males with Parkinson’s Disease
Authors: Ho Dong Hwan , Yi Sanghak , Seo Hyemyung , Son Ilhong , Seol Wongi
Published: November 2014

Parkinson’s disease (PD) is a difficult disease to diagnose although it is the second most common neurodegenerative disease. Recent studies show that exosome isolated from urine contains LRRK2 or DJ-1, proteins whose mutations cause PD. To investigate a potential use for urine exosomes as a tool for PD diagnosis, we compared levels of LRRK2,α-synuclein, and DJ-1 in urine exosomes isolated from Korean PD patients and non-PD controls. LRRK2 and DJ-1, but notα-synuclein, were detected in the urine exosome samples, as reported previously. We initially could not detect any significant difference in these protein levels between the patient and the control groups. However, when age, disease duration, L-dopa daily dose, and gender were considered as analytical parameters, LRRK2 and DJ-1 protein levels showed clear gender-dependent differences. In addition, DJ-1 level was significantly higher (1.7-fold) in male patients with PD than that in male non-PD controls and increased in an age-dependent manner in male patients with PD. Our observation might provide a clue to lead to a novel biomarker for PD diagnosis, at least in males.
Methods for Detection of Aflatoxins in Agricultural Food Crops
Authors: Wacoo Alex P. , Wendiro Deborah , Vuzi Peter C. , Hawumba Joseph F.
Published: November 2014

Aflatoxins are toxic carcinogenic secondary metabolites produced predominantly by two fungal species: Aspergillus flavus and Aspergillus parasiticus. These fungal species are contaminants of foodstuff as well as feeds and are responsible for aflatoxin contamination of these agro products. The toxicity and potency of aflatoxins make them the primary health hazard as well as responsible for losses associated with contaminations of processed foods and feeds. Determination of aflatoxins concentration in food stuff and feeds is thus very important. However, due to their low concentration in foods and feedstuff, analytical methods for detection and quantification of aflatoxins have to be specific, sensitive, and simple to carry out. Several methods including thin-layer chromatography (TLC), high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC), mass spectroscopy, enzyme-linked immune-sorbent assay (ELISA), and electrochemical immunosensor, among others, have been described for detecting and quantifying aflatoxins in foods. Each of these methods has advantages and limitations in aflatoxins analysis. This review critically examines each of the methods used for detection of aflatoxins in foodstuff, highlighting the advantages and limitations of each method. Finally, a way forward for overcoming such obstacles is suggested.
Evaluating Medicinal Plants for Anticancer Activity
Authors: Solowey Elisha , Lichtenstein Michal , Sallon Sarah , Paavilainen Helena , Solowey Elaine , Lorberboum-Galski Haya
Published: November 2014

Plants have been used for medical purposes since the beginning of human history and are the basis of modern medicine. Most chemotherapeutic drugs for cancer treatment are molecules identified and isolated from plants or their synthetic derivatives. Our hypothesis was that whole plant extracts selected according to ethnobotanical sources of historical use might contain multiple molecules with antitumor activities that could be very effective in killing human cancer cells. This study examined the effects of three whole plant extracts (ethanol extraction) on human tumor cells. The extracts were fromUrtica membranacea(Urticaceae),Artemesia monosperma(Asteraceae), andOriganum dayi post(Labiatae). All three plant extracts exhibited dose- and time-dependent killing capabilities in various human derived tumor cell lines and primary cultures established from patients’ biopsies. The killing activity was specific toward tumor cells, as the plant extracts had no effect on primary cultures of healthy human cells. Cell death caused by the whole plant extracts is via apoptosis. Plant extract 5 (Urtica membranacea) showed particularly strong anticancer capabilities since it inhibited actual tumor progression in a breast adenocarcinoma mouse model. Our results suggest that whole plant extracts are promising anticancer reagents.
The Preventive Effects of Diminazene Aceturate in Renal Ischemia/Reperfusion Injury in Male and Female Rats
Authors: Malek Maryam , Nematbakhsh Mehdi
Published: November 2014

Background. Angiotensin-converting enzyme 2/angiotensin (1-7)/Mas receptor (ACE2/Ang-1-7/MasR) appears to counteract most of the deleterious actions of angiotensin-converting enzyme/angiotensin II/angiotensin II receptor 1 (ACE/Ang II/AT1R) in renal ischemia/reperfusion (I/R) injury but ACE2 activity and its levels are sexually dimorphic in the kidney. This study was designed to evaluate the effects of activation endogenous ACE2 using the diminazene aceturate (DIZE) in renal I/R injury in male and female rats.Methods. 36 Wistar rats were divided into two groups of male and female and each group distinct to three subgroups (n=6). I/R group was subjected to 45 min of bilateral ischemia and 24 h of reperfusion, while treatment group received DIZE (15 mg/kg/day) for three days before the induction of I/R. The other group was assigned as the sham-operated group.Results. DIZE treatment in male rats caused a significant decrease in blood urea nitrogen (BUN), creatinine, liver functional indices, serum malondialdehyde (MDA), and increase kidney nitrite levels (P<0.05), and in female rats a significant increase in creatinine and decrease serum nitrite levels compared to the I/R group (P<0.05).Conclusions. DIZE may protect the male kidney from renal I/RI through antioxidant activity and elevation of circulating nitrite level.
Review of Mechanics and Applications of Auxetic Structures
Authors: Mir Mariam , Ali Murtaza Najabat , Sami Javaria , Ansari Umar
Published: November 2014

One of the important mechanical properties of materials is Poisson’s ratio, which is positive for most of the materials. However, certain materials exhibit “auxetic” properties; that is, they have a negative Poisson’s ratio. Thus auxetic and non-auxetic materials exhibit different deformation mechanisms. A specific microscopic structure in the auxetic materials is important for maintaining a negative Poisson’s ratio. Based on their distinct nature auxetic materials execute certain unique properties in contrast to other materials, which are reviewed in this paper. Thus auxetic materials have important applications in the biomedical field which are also a part of this review article. Many auxetic materials have been discovered, fabricated, and synthesized which differ on the basis of structure, scale and deformation mechanism. The different types of auxetic materials such as auxetic cellular solids, microscopic auxetic polymers, molecular auxetic materials, and auxetic composites have been reviewed comprehensively in this paper. Modeling of auxetic structures is of considerable importance and needs appropriate stress strain configurations; thus different aspects of auxetic modeling have also been reviewed. Packing parameters and relative densities are of prime importance in this regard. This review would thus help the researchers in determining and deciding the various aspects of auxetic nature for their products.
11-Year Trends in Pregnancy-Related Health Indicators in Maine, 2000–2010
Authors: Harris David E. , Aboueissa AbouEl-Makarim , Baugh Nancy , Sarton Cheryl , Lichter Erika
Published: November 2014

The objective of this study is to understand health and demographic trends among mothers and infants in Maine relative to the goals ofHealthy People 2020.Pregnancy risk assessment monitoring system (PRAMS) data from Maine for 2000–2010 were used to determine yearly values of pregnancy-related variables. Means (for continuous variables) and percentages (for categorical variables) were calculated using the survey procedures in SAS. Linear trend analysis was applied with study year as the independent variable. The slope and significance of the trend were then calculated. Over the study period, new mothers in Maine became better educated but the fraction of households with incomes <$20,000/year remained stagnant. Maternal prepregnancy BMI increased. Average pregnancy weight gain decreased but the number of women whose pregnancy weight gain was within the recommended range was unchanged. The rates of smoking and alcohol consumption (before and during pregnancy) increased. The Caesarean section rate rose and the fraction of infants born premature (<37 wks gestation) or underweight (<2500 gms) remained unchanged. The fraction of infants who were breast-fed increased. These results suggest that, despite some positive trends, Maine faces significant challenges in meetingHealthy People 2020goals.
Resolution of Left Ventricular Thrombus Secondary to Tachycardia-Induced Heart Failure with Rivaroxaban
Authors: Nakasuka Kosuke , Ito Shigenori , Noda Tsubasa , Hasuo Takahiro , Sekimoto Satoru , Ohmori Hiroyuki , Inomata Masahiko , Yoshida Takayuki , Tamai Nozomu , Saeki Tomoaki , Suzuki Shin , Murakami Yoshimasa , Sato Koichi
Published: November 2014

A 42-year-old man was admitted to our hospital because of lumbago and tachycardia-induced heart failure. Transthoracic echocardiography revealed impaired left ventricular function and a ball mass of thrombus in the left ventricle (LV). He was found to have systemic embolism in the spleen, kidneys, brain, and limbs. The patient was treated with limb thrombectomy followed by anticoagulation. Seven days after the direct factor Xa inhibitor, rivaroxaban, was initiated, transthoracic echocardiography was repeated, revealing disappearance of the LV thrombus without any clinical signs of cardiogenic embolism. His heart failure responded well and the LV wall motion had improved. This case suggests rivaroxaban has fibrinolytic effects on thrombi even in the LV.
Investigations on Incipient Fault Diagnosis of Power Transformer Using Neural Networks and Adaptive Neurofuzzy Inference System
Authors: Wagh Nandkumar , Deshpande D. M.
Published: November 2014

Continuity of power supply is of utmost importance to the consumers and is only possible by coordination and reliable operation of power system components. Power transformer is such a prime equipment of the transmission and distribution system and needs to be continuously monitored for its well-being. Since ratio methods cannot provide correct diagnosis due to the borderline problems and the probability of existence of multiple faults, artificial intelligence could be the best approach. Dissolved gas analysis (DGA) interpretation may provide an insight into the developing incipient faults and is adopted as the preliminary diagnosis tool. In the proposed work, a comparison of the diagnosis ability of backpropagation (BP), radial basis function (RBF) neural network, and adaptive neurofuzzy inference system (ANFIS) has been investigated and the diagnosis results in terms of error measure, accuracy, network training time, and number of iterations are presented.
PaperCAD: A System for Interrogating CAD Drawings Using Small Mobile Computing Devices Combined with Interactive Paper
Authors: Lee WeeSan , Stahovich Thomas F.
Published: November 2014

Smartphones have become indispensable computational tools. However, some tasks can be difficult to perform on a smartphone because these devices have small displays. Here, we explore methods for augmenting the display of a smartphone, or other PDA, using interactive paper. Specifically, we present a prototype interface that enables a user to interactively interrogate technical drawings using an Anoto-based smartpen and a PDA. Our software system, called PaperCAD, enables users to query geometric information from CAD drawings printed on Anoto dot-patterned paper. For example, the user can measure a distance by drawing a dimension arrow. The system provides output to the user via a smartpen’s audio speaker and the dynamic video display of a PDA. The user can select either verbose or concise audio feedback, and the PDA displays a video image of the portion of the drawing near the pen tip. The project entails advances in the interpretation of pen input, such as a method that uses contextual information to interpret ambiguous dimensions and a technique that uses a hidden Markov model to correct interpretation errors in handwritten equations. Results of a user study suggest that our user interface design and interpretation techniques are effective and that users are highly satisfied with the system.
Seroepidemiology ofToxoplasma gondiiamongst Pregnant Women in Jazan Province, Saudi Arabia
Authors: Aqeely Hussein , El-Gayar Eman K. , Perveen Khan Darakhshan , Najmi Abdullah , Alvi Ayesha , Bani Ibrahim , Mahfouz Mohamed Salih , Abdalla Saif Elden , Elhassan Ibrahim M.
Published: November 2014

Background. Toxoplasma gondii (T. gondii)is an obligate intracellular protozoan parasite of worldwide distribution. There is limited information about the seroprevalence of toxoplasmosis in the southern area of Saudi Arabia. The current study was carried out to determine the prevalence ofT. gondiiin pregnant women in Jazan province.Materials and Methods.The study was conducted between January and June 2013 and included 195 pregnant women, data on sociodemographic and predisposing factors were collected from each participant. Venous blood samples were collected following standard operating procedures. Serological analysis for latent toxoplasmosis (levels of IgG) and active toxoplasmosis (IgM) was done using Enzyme Linked Immunosorbent Assay (ELISA).Results.The overall seroprevalence ofT. gondiiin the study area was 24.1%. The seroprevalence of anti-ToxoplasmaIgG was 20% (39 out of 195), whereas IgM seropositivity was 6.2% (12 out of 195). Only 4 pregnant women tested positive for both IgG and IgM. The highest IgG and IgM seroprevalence was among the study participants aged 35 to 39 years (13.5% and 35.1%, resp.). The seropositivity rate ofT. gondii-specific antibodies was higher among pregnant women from the urban areas than those from rural communities (7.4% versus 0% and 21% versus 15.4% for IgM and IgG, resp.).Conclusions.The seroprevalence ofT. gondiiwas high in pregnant woman in Jazan. The prevalence of toxoplasmosis increases with increase of age. Awareness health education program in Jazan needs to be maintained and developed to targeted pregnant women.
Foretinib Is Effective Therapy for Metastatic Sonic Hedgehog Medulloblastoma
Authors: Faria Claudia C. , Golbourn Brian J. , Dubuc Adrian M. , Remke Marc , Diaz Roberto J. , Agnihotri Sameer , Luck Amanda , Sabha Nesrin , Olsen Samantha , Wu Xiaochong , Garzia Livia , Ramaswamy Vijay , Mack Stephen C. , Wang Xin , Leadley Michael , Reynaud Denis , Ermini Leonardo , Post Martin , Northcott Paul A. , Pfister Stefan M. , Croul Sidney E. , Kool Marcel , Korshunov Andrey , Smith Christian A. , Taylor Michael D. , Rutka James T.
Published: November 2014

Medulloblastoma is the most common malignant pediatric brain tumor, with metastases present at diagnosis conferring a poor prognosis. Mechanisms of dissemination are poorly understood and metastatic lesions are genetically divergent from the matched primary tumor. Effective and less toxic therapies that target both compartments have yet to be identified. Here, we report that the analysis of several large nonoverlapping cohorts of patients with medulloblastoma reveals MET kinase as a marker of sonic hedgehog (SHH)–driven medulloblastoma. Immunohistochemical analysis of phosphorylated, active MET kinase in an independent patient cohort confirmed its correlation with increased tumor relapse and poor survival, suggesting that patients with SHH medulloblastoma may benefit from MET-targeted therapy. In support of this hypothesis, we found that the approved MET inhibitor foretinib could suppress MET activation, decrease tumor cell proliferation, and induce apoptosis in SHH medulloblastomas in vitro and in vivo. Foretinib penetrated the blood–brain barrier and was effective in both the primary and metastatic tumor compartments. In established mouse xenograft or transgenic models of metastatic SHH medulloblastoma, foretinib administration reduced the growth of the primary tumor, decreased the incidence of metastases, and increased host survival. Taken together, our results provide a strong rationale to clinically evaluate foretinib as an effective therapy for patients with SHH-driven medulloblastoma. Cancer Res; 75(1); 134–46. ©2014 AACR.
Phase II Clinical Trial of Multiple Peptide Vaccination for Advanced Head and Neck Cancer Patients Revealed Induction of Immune Responses and Improved OS
Authors: Yoshitake Yoshihiro , Fukuma Daiki , Yuno Akira , Hirayama Masatoshi , Nakayama Hideki , Tanaka Takuya , Nagata Masashi , Takamune Yasuo , Kawahara Kenta , Nakagawa Yoshihiro , Yoshida Ryoji , Hirosue Akiyuki , Ogi Hidenao , Hiraki Akimitsu , Jono Hirofumi , Hamada Akinobu , Yoshida Koji , Nishimura Yasuharu , Nakamura Yusuke , Shinohara Masanori
Published: November 2014

Purpose: The peptides derived from ideal cancer–testis antigens, including LY6K, CDCA1, and IMP3 (identified using genome-wide cDNA microarray analyses), were used in immunotherapy for head and neck squamous cell cancer (HNSCC). In this trial, we analyzed the immune response to and safety and efficacy of vaccine therapy.

Experimental Design: A total of 37 patients with advanced HNSCC were enrolled in this trial of peptide vaccine therapy, and the OS, PFS, and immunologic response were evaluated using enzyme-linked ImmunoSpot (ELISPOT) and pentamer assays. The peptides were subcutaneously administered weekly with IFA. The primary endpoints were evaluated on the basis of differences between HLA-A*2402-positive [A24(+)] patients treated with peptide vaccine therapy and –negative [A24(−)] patients treated without peptide vaccine therapy among those with advanced HNSCC.

Results: Our cancer vaccine therapy was well tolerated. The OS of the A24(+) vaccinated group (n = 37) was statistically significantly longer than that of the A24(−) group (n = 18) and median survival time (MST) was 4.9 versus 3.5 months, respectively; P < 0.05. One of the patients exhibited a complete response. In the A24(+) vaccinated group, the ELISPOT assay identified LY6K-, CDCA1-, and IMP3-specific CTL responses in 85.7%, 64.3%, and 42.9% of the patients, respectively. The patients showing LY6K- and CDCA1-specific CTL responses demonstrated a longer OS than those without CTL induction. Moreover, the patients exhibiting CTL induction for multiple peptides demonstrated better clinical responses.

Conclusions: The immune response induced by this vaccine may improve the prognosis of patients with advanced HNSCC. Clin Cancer Res; 21(2); 312–21. ©2014 AACR.
Intra-Arterial Therapy for Acute Ischemic Stroke Under General Anesthesia versus Monitored Anesthesia Care
Authors: John Seby , Thebo Umera , Gomes Joao , Saqqur Maher , Farag Ehab , Xu Jijun , Wisco Dolora , Uchino Ken , Hussain Muhammad S.
Published: November 2014

Background: Recent studies have shown that intra-arterial recanalization therapy (IAT) for acute ischemic stroke (AIS) is associated with worse clinical outcomes when performed under general anesthesia (GA) compared to local anesthesia, with or without conscious sedation. The reasons for this association have not been systematically studied. Methods: We retrospectively reviewed 190 patients who underwent IAT for anterior circulation AIS from January 2008 to December 2012 at our institution. Baseline demographics, vessels involved, acute stroke treatment including intravenous tissue type plasminogen activator (tPA) use, use of GA vs. monitored anesthesia care (MAC), location of thrombus, recanalization grade, radiologic post-procedural intracerebral hemorrhage, and 30-day outcomes were collected. Relevant clinical time points were recorded. Detailed intra-procedural hemodynamics including maximum/minimum heart rate, systolic blood pressure (BP), diastolic BP, mean BP, use of pressors and episodes of hypotension were collected. Our study's outcomes were as follows: in-hospital mortality, 30-day good outcome (mRS ≤2), successful recanalization and radiologic post-procedural intracerebral hemorrhage. Results: Ninety-one patients received GA and 99 patients received MAC. There was no significant difference in the NIHSS score between the two groups but the GA group had a higher number of ICA occlusions (31.9 vs. 18.2%, p = 0.043). The time from the start of anesthesia to incision (23.0 ± 12.5 min vs. 18.7 ± 11.3 min, p = 0.020) and the time from the start of anesthesia to recanalization (110 ± 57.2 vs. 92.3 ± 43.0, p = 0.045) was longer in the GA group. The time from incision to recanalization was not significantly different between the two groups. mRS 0-2 was achieved in 22.8% of patients in the MAC group compared to 14.9% in GA (p = 0.293). Higher mortality was seen in the GA group (25.8 vs. 13.3%, p = 0.040). Successful recanalization (TICI 2b-3) was similar between the GA and MAC (57.8 vs. 48.5%, p = 0.182) groups, but GA had a higher number of parenchymal hematomas (26.3 vs. 10.1%, p = 0.003). There was no difference in the intra-procedural hemodynamic variables between the GA and MAC groups. Anesthesia type was an independent predictor for mortality (along with age and initial NIHSS), and the only independent predictor for parenchymal hematomas, with MAC being protective for both. Conclusion: Our study has confirmed previous findings of GA being associated with poorer outcomes and higher mortality in patients undergoing IAT for AIS. Detailed analysis of intra-procedural hemodynamics did not reveal any significant difference between the two groups. Parenchymal hematoma was the major driver of the difference in outcomes.
Intravenously Injected Human Apolipoprotein A‐I Rapidly Enters the Central Nervous System via the Choroid Plexus
Authors: Stukas Sophie , Robert Jerome , Lee Michael , Kulic Iva , Carr Michael , Tourigny Katherine , Fan Jianjia , Namjoshi Dhananjay , Lemke Kalistyne , DeValle Nicole , Chan Jeniffer , Wilson Tammy , Wilkinson Anna , Chapanian Rafi , Kizhakkedathu Jayachandran N. , Cirrito John R. , Oda Michael N. , Wellington Cheryl L.
Published: November 2014

Background

Brain lipoprotein metabolism is dependent on lipoprotein particles that resemble plasma high‐density lipoproteins but that contain apolipoprotein (apo) E rather than apoA‐I as their primary protein component. Astrocytes and microglia secrete apoE but not apoA‐I; however, apoA‐I is detectable in both cerebrospinal fluid and brain tissue lysates. The route by which plasma apoA‐I enters the central nervous system is unknown.

Methods and Results

Steady‐state levels of murine apoA‐I in cerebrospinal fluid and interstitial fluid are 0.664 and 0.120 μg/
mL
, respectively, whereas brain tissue apoA‐I is ≈10% to 15% of its levels in liver. Recombinant, fluorescently tagged human apoA‐I injected intravenously into mice localizes to the choroid plexus within 30 minutes and accumulates in a saturable, dose‐dependent manner in the brain. Recombinant, fluorescently tagged human apoA‐I accumulates in the brain for 2 hours, after which it is eliminated with a half‐life of 10.3 hours. In vitro, human apoA‐I is specifically bound, internalized, and transported across confluent monolayers of primary human choroid plexus epithelial cells and brain microvascular endothelial cells.

Conclusions

Following intravenous injection, recombinant human apoA‐I rapidly localizes predominantly to the choroid plexus. Because apoA‐I
mRNA
is undetectable in murine brain, our results suggest that plasma apoA‐I, which is secreted from the liver and intestine, gains access to the central nervous system primarily by crossing the blood–cerebrospinal fluid barrier via specific cellular mediated transport, although transport across the blood–brain barrier may also contribute to a lesser extent.
Mitochondrial Aldehyde Dehydrogenase Activation by Alda‐1 Inhibits Atherosclerosis and Attenuates Hepatic Steatosis in Apolipoprotein E‐Knockout Mice
Authors: Stachowicz Aneta , Olszanecki Rafał , Suski Maciej , Wiśniewska Anna , Totoń‐Żurańska Justyna , Madej Józef , Jawień Jacek , Białas Magdalena , Okoń Krzysztof , Gajda Mariusz , Głombik Katarzyna , Basta‐Kaim Agnieszka , Korbut Ryszard
Published: November 2014

Background

Mitochondrial dysfunction has been shown to play an important role in the development of atherosclerosis and nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (
NAFLD
). Mitochondrial aldehyde dehydrogenase (
ALDH
2), an enzyme responsible for the detoxification of reactive aldehydes, is considered to exert protective function in mitochondria. We investigated the influence of Alda‐1, an activator of
ALDH
2, on atherogenesis and on the liver steatosis in apolipoprotein E knockout (apoE
−/−
) mice.

Methods and Results

Alda‐1 caused decrease of atherosclerotic lesions approximately 25% as estimated by “en face” and “cross‐section” methods without influence on plasma lipid profile, atherosclerosis‐related markers of inflammation, and macrophage and smooth muscle content in the plaques. Plaque nitrotyrosine was not changed upon Alda‐1 treatment, and there were no changes in aortic
mRNA
levels of factors involved in antioxidative defense, regulation of apoptosis, mitogenesis, and autophagy. Hematoxylin/eosin staining showed decrease of steatotic changes in liver of Alda‐1‐treated apoE
−/−
mice. Alda‐1 attenuated formation of 4‐hydroxy‐2‐nonenal (4‐HNE) protein adducts and decreased triglyceride content in liver tissue. Two‐dimensional electrophoresis coupled with mass spectrometry identified 20 differentially expressed mitochondrial proteins upon Alda‐1 treatment in liver of apoE
−/−
mice, mostly proteins related to metabolism and oxidative stress. The most up‐regulated were the proteins that participated in beta oxidation of fatty acids.

Conclusions

Collectively, Alda‐1 inhibited atherosclerosis and attenuated
NAFLD
in apoE
−/−
mice. The pattern of changes suggests a beneficial effect of Alda‐1 in
NAFLD;
however, the exact liver functional consequences of the revealed alterations as well as the mechanism(s) of antiatherosclerotic Alda‐1 action require further investigation.