bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A FUZZY ASSOCIATIVE CLASSIFICATION APPROACH FOR RECOMMENDER SYSTEMS
Authors: LUCAS JOEL PINHO , LAURENT ANNE , MORENO MARÍA N. , TEISSEIRE MAGUELONNE
Published: August 2012

Despite the existence of different methods, including data mining techniques, available to be used in recommender systems, such systems still contain numerous limitations. They are in a constant need for personalization in order to make effective suggestions and to provide valuable information of items available. A way to reach such personalization is by means of an alternative data mining technique called classification based on association, which uses association rules in a prediction perspective. In this work we propose a hybrid methodology for recommender systems, which uses collaborative filtering and content-based approaches in a joint method taking advantage from the strengths of both approaches. Moreover, we also employ fuzzy logic to enhance recommendations' quality and effectiveness. In order to analyze the behavior of the techniques used in our methodology, we accomplished a case study using real data gathered from two recommender systems. Results revealed that such techniques can be applied effectively in recommender systems, minimizing the effects typical drawbacks they present.
ALTERNATIVE AXIOMATIZATIONS OF THE SHAPLEY VALUE UNDER INTERVAL UNCERTAINTY
Authors: LIAO YU-HSIEN
Published: August 2012

In this paper, we provide alternative axioms and related axiomatizations of the Shapley value under interval uncertainty.
A MODEL-BASED 3D FACE POSE AND ANIMATION TRACKER WITH AUTO-REGISTRATION USING A BINOCULAR EKF KERNEL
Authors: DONG YANCHAO , HU ZHENCHENG , XIE MING
Published: August 2012

The recovery of 3D information of a face from two (or more) images has been extensively studied and many interesting applications have been implemented. This paper proposes a model-based 3D face pose and animation tracker with auto-registration using a binocular EKF kernel for real time application like human computer interface. Compared with previous trackers, this tracker is able to automatically register face model, which eliminates the traditional manual registration process. Another major contribution is to use augmented measurement as a regularization strategy for suppressing variables coupling and over-fitting problem. This work also gives a compact factorized mathematic representation of the tracking kernel, which is easier to implement. Both synthetic and real experimental results show significant advantages of the proposed tracker from the aspects of processing speed and reliability compared with the conventional monocular tracker and Levenberg–Marquardt tracker.
EVOLUTIONARY TUNING OF MODULAR FUZZY CONTROLLER FOR TWO-WHEELED WHEELCHAIR
Authors: AHMAD SALMIAH , SIDDIQUE N. H. , TOKHI M. O.
Published: August 2012

In this work, an optimization technique is adopted to manipulate the input and output scaling factors of a modular fuzzy logic controller (MFC) for lifting and stabilizing the front wheels of a wheelchair in two-wheeled mode. A virtual wheelchair (WC) model is developed within Visual Nastran (VN) software environment where the model is further linked with Matlab/Simulink for control purposes. The lifting of the chair is done by transforming the first link (Link1), attached to the front wheels (casters) to the upright position while maintaining stability of the second link (Link2) where the payload is attached. General rules of thumb allow heuristic tuning (trial and error) of the parameters but such heuristic method does not guarantee that the system tuned with current data set will represent future system states. A global optimization mechanism such as genetic algorithm is necessary to improve the system performance. Due to its significant advantages over other searching methods, a genetic algorithm approach is used to optimize the scaling factors of the MFC and results show that the optimized parameters give better system performance for such a complex, highly nonlinear two-wheeled wheelchair system.
A NOVEL VIOLENT VIDEOS CLASSIFICATION SCHEME BASED ON THE BAG OF AUDIO WORDS FEATURES
Authors: LI LEI
Published: August 2012

This paper has been removed because it was brought to our attention that Lei Li from CMU is not the author of this paper. Lei Li from CMU informed that the e-mail used in this paper is not the e-mail of Lei Li from CMU. Please contact ijcia@wspc.com
PERFORMANCE EVALUATION OF THREE PATTERN CLASSIFICATION TECHNIQUES USED FOR WATER QUALITY MONITORING
Authors: BOUAMAR M. , LADJAL M.
Published: August 2012

Water quality is one of the major concerns of countries around the world. Monitoring of water quality is becoming more and more interesting because of its effects on human life. The control of risks in the factories that produce and distribute water ensures the quality of this vital resource. Many techniques were developed in order to improve this process attending to rigorous follow-ups of the water quality. In this paper, we present a comparative study of the performance of three techniques resulting from the field of the artificial intelligence namely: Artificial Neural Networks (ANN), RBF Neural Networks (RBF-NN), and Support Vector Machines (SVM). Developed from the statistical learning theory, these methods display optimal training performances and generalization in many fields of application, among others the field of pattern recognition. In order to evaluate their performances regarding the recognition rate, training time, and robustness, a simulation using generated and real data is carried out. To validate their functionalities, an application performed on real data is presented. Applied as a classification tool, the technique selected should ensure, within a multisensor monitoring system, a direct and quasi permanent control of water quality.
Climate Change and Food Systems
Authors: Vermeulen Sonja J. , Campbell Bruce M. , Ingram John S.I.
Published: August 2012

Food systems contribute 19%–29% of global anthropogenic greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, releasing 9,800–16,900 megatonnes of carbon dioxide equivalent (MtCO2e) in 2008. Agricultural production, including indirect emissions associated with land-cover change, contributes 80%–86% of total food system emissions, with significant regional variation. The impacts of global climate change on food systems are expected to be widespread, complex, geographically and temporally variable, and profoundly influenced by socioeconomic conditions. Historical statistical studies and integrated assessment models provide evidence that climate change will affect agricultural yields and earnings, food prices, reliability of delivery, food quality, and, notably, food safety. Low-income producers and consumers of food will be more vulnerable to climate change owing to their comparatively limited ability to invest in adaptive institutions and technologies under increasing climatic risks. Some synergies among food security, adaptation, and mitigation are feasible. But promising interventions, such as agricultural intensification or reductions in waste, will require careful management to distribute costs and benefits effectively.
The Energy Technology Innovation System
Authors: Gallagher Kelly Sims , Grübler Arnulf , Kuhl Laura , Nemet Gregory , Wilson Charlie
Published: August 2012

This article reviews the concept of an energy technology innovation system (ETIS). The ETIS is a systemic perspective on innovation comprising all aspects of energy transformations (supply and demand); all stages of the technology development cycle; and all the major innovation processes, feedbacks, actors, institutions, and networks. We use it as an analytical framework to describe key features and drivers of energy innovation. A global snapshot of the ETIS is provided using investments as the main indicator. Rationales for government policy in energy innovation are discussed, and policy design guidelines for an effectively functioning ETIS are presented. The proposed guidelines are based on a survey of the literature and empirical case studies; they diverge substantially from polices implied by partial perspectives on innovation. Key research, information, and data needs are also identified.
Mind the Gap: The Place of Gap Studies in Sociolegal Scholarship
Authors: Gould Jon B. , Barclay Scott
Published: August 2012

Arising in the late 1960s and early 1970s—in conjunction with the development of sociology of law and the Law and Society Association—gap studies dominated much of sociolegal scholarship for a time, providing multiple examples of the ways in which law on the books is inconsistent with law in action. These gaps, in turn, spurred calls for legal reform. By the 1980s, however, gap studies came in for criticism, not only for the presumption that law was purposively rational but also for scholars' beliefs that they could identify law's aims. To some, the findings were naïve or undertheorized. Nonetheless, gap studies have illuminated many legal practices and have helped to identify pathways by which law may have an impact. Even as sociolegal scholarship has become increasingly decentered from law, one still sees the tendrils of gap studies in research exploring discrepancies between expectations and actuality in law and legality.
Evolutionary Adaptation of Marine Zooplankton to Global Change
Authors: Dam Hans G.
Published: August 2012

Predicting the response of the biota to global change remains a formidable endeavor. Zooplankton face challenges related to global warming, ocean acidification, the proliferation of toxic algal blooms, and increasing pollution, eutrophication, and hypoxia. They can respond to these changes by phenotypic plasticity or genetic adaptation. Using the concept of the evolution of reaction norms, I address how adaptive responses can be unequivocally discerned from phenotypic plasticity. To date, relatively few zooplankton studies have been designed for such a purpose. As case studies, I review the evidence for zooplankton adaptation to toxic algal blooms, hypoxia, and climate change. Predicting the response of zooplankton to global change requires new information to determine (a) the trade-offs and costs of adaptation, (b) the rates of evolution versus environmental change, (c) the consequences of adaptation to stochastic or cyclic (toxic algal blooms, coastal hypoxia) versus directional (temperature, acidification, open ocean hypoxia) environmental change, and (d) the interaction of selective pressures, and evolutionary and ecological processes, in promoting or hindering adaptation.
Resilience to Climate Change in Coastal Marine Ecosystems
Authors: Bernhardt Joanna R. , Leslie Heather M.
Published: August 2012

Ecological resilience to climate change is a combination of resistance to increasingly frequent and severe disturbances, capacity for recovery and self-organization, and ability to adapt to new conditions. Here, we focus on three broad categories of ecological properties that underlie resilience: diversity, connectivity, and adaptive capacity. Diversity increases the variety of responses to disturbance and the likelihood that species can compensate for one another. Connectivity among species, populations, and ecosystems enhances capacity for recovery by providing sources of propagules, nutrients, and biological legacies. Adaptive capacity includes a combination of phenotypic plasticity, species range shifts, and microevolution. We discuss empirical evidence for how these ecological and evolutionary mechanisms contribute to the resilience of coastal marine ecosystems following climate change–related disturbances, and how resource managers can apply this information to sustain these systems and the ecosystem services they provide.
Organizational Climate and Culture
Authors: Schneider Benjamin , Ehrhart Mark G. , Macey William H.
Published: August 2012

Organizational climate and organizational culture theory and research are reviewed. The article is first framed with definitions of the constructs, and preliminary thoughts on their interrelationships are noted. Organizational climate is briefly defined as the meanings people attach to interrelated bundles of experiences they have at work. Organizational culture is briefly defined as the basic assumptions about the world and the values that guide life in organizations. A brief history of climate research is presented, followed by the major accomplishments in research on the topic with regard to levels issues, the foci of climate research, and studies of climate strength. A brief overview of the more recent study of organizational culture is then introduced, followed by samples of important thinking and research on the roles of leadership and national culture in understanding organizational culture and performance and culture as a moderator variable in research in organizational behavior. The final section of the article proposes an integration of climate and culture thinking and research and concludes with practical implications for the management of effective contemporary organizations. Throughout, recommendations are made for additional thinking and research.
Regulation of endothelial cell morphogenesis by the protein kinase D (PKD)/glycogen synthase kinase 3 (GSK3)β pathway
Authors: Shin Sejeong , Wolgamott Laura , Yoon Sang-Oh
Published: August 2012

Vascular morphogenesis is a key process for development, reproduction, and pathogenesis. Thus understanding the mechanisms of this process is of pathophysiological importance. Despite the fact that collagen I is the most abundant and potent promorphogenic molecule known, the molecular mechanisms by which this protein regulates endothelial cell tube morphogenesis are still unclear. Here we provide strong evidence that collagen I induces tube morphogenesis by inhibiting glycogen synthase kinase 3β (GSK3β). Further mechanistic studies revealed that GSK3β activity is regulated by protein kinase D (PKD). PKD inhibited GSK3β activity, which was required for collagen I-induced endothelial tube morphogenesis. We also found that GSK3β regulated trafficking of integrin α2β1 in a Rab11-dependent manner. Taken together, our studies highlight the important role of PKD in the regulation of collagen I-induced vascular morphogenesis and show that it is mediated by the modulation of GSK3β activity and integrin α2β1 trafficking.
P2X7 deficiency attenuates hypertension and renal injury in deoxycorticosterone acetate-salt hypertension
Authors: Ji Xu , Naito Yukiko , Weng Huachun , Endo Kosuke , Ma Xiao , Iwai Naoharu
Published: August 2012

The P2X7 receptor is a ligand-gated ion channel, and genetic variations in the P2X7 gene significantly affect blood pressure. P2X7 receptor expression is associated with renal injury and inflammatory diseases. Uninephrectomized wild-type (WT) and P2X7-deficient (P2X7 KO) mice were subcutaneously implanted with deoxycorticosterone acetate (DOCA) pellets and fed an 8% salt diet for 18 days. Their blood pressure was assessed by a telemetry system. The mice were placed in metabolic cages, and urine was collected for 24 h to assess renal function. After 18 days of DOCA-salt treatment, P2X7 mRNA and protein expression increased in WT mice. Blood pressure in P2X7 KO mice was less than that of WT mice (mean systolic blood pressure 133 ± 3 vs. 150 ± 2 mmHg). On day 18, urinary albumin excretion was lower in P2X7 KO mice than in WT mice (0.11 ± 0.07 vs. 0.28 ± 0.07 mg/day). Creatinine clearance was higher in P2X7 KO mice than in WT mice (551.53 ± 65.23 vs. 390.85 ± 32.81 μl·min−1·g renal weight−1). Moreover, renal interstitial fibrosis and infiltration of immune cells (macrophages, T cells, B cells, and leukocytes) were markedly attenuated in P2X7 KO mice compared with WT mice. The levels of IL-1β, released by macrophages, in P2X7 KO mice had decreased dramatically compared with that in WT mice. These results strongly suggest that the P2X7 receptor plays a key role in the development of hypertension and renal disease via increased inflammation, indicating its potential as a novel therapeutic target.
α2C-Adrenoceptors modulatel-DOPA uptake in opossum kidney cells and in the mouse kidney
Authors: Moura Eduardo , Silva Elisabete , Serrão Maria Paula , Afonso Joana , Kozmus Carina Esteves Pinto , Vieira-Coelho Maria Augusta
Published: August 2012

Targeted deletion or selective pharmacological inhibition of α2C-adrenoceptors in mice results in increased brain tissue levels of dopamine and its precursor l-3,4-dihydroxyphenylalanine (l-DOPA), without significant changes in l-DOPA synthesis. l-DOPA uptake is considered the rate-limiting step in dopamine synthesis in the kidney. Since α2C-adrenoceptors may influence the transport of l-DOPA, we investigated the effect of α2C-adrenoceptor activation on l-DOPA uptake in a kidney cell line (opossum kidney cells). l-DOPA and dopamine kidney tissue levels in α2C-adrenoceptor knockout (α2CKO) mice and in mice treated with the selective α2C-adrenoceptor antagonist JP-1302 were also evaluated. The α2-adrenoceptor agonist medetomidine (0.1–1,000 nM) produced a concentration-dependent decrease in l-DOPA uptake in opossum kidney cells (IC50: 2.5 ± 0.5 nM and maximal effect: 28 ± 5% of inhibition). This effect was abolished by a preincubation with JP-1302 (300 nM). Furthermore, the effect of medetomidine (100 nM) was abolished by a preincubation with U-0126 (10 μM), a MEK1/2 inhibitor. Kidney tissue levels of l-DOPA were significantly higher in α2CKO mice compared with wild-type mice (wild-type mice: 58 ± 2 pmol/g tissue and α2CKO mice: 81 ± 15 pmol/g tissue, P < 0.05) and in mice treated with JP-1302 (3 μmol/kg body wt) compared with control mice (control mice: 62 ± 2 pmol/g tissue and JP-1302-treated mice: 75 ± 1 pmol/g tissue, P < 0.05), both without significant changes in dopamine kidney tissue levels. However, mice treated with JP-1302 on a high-salt diet presented significantly higher dopamine levels in the kidney and urine compared with control animals on a high-salt diet. In conclusion, in a kidney cell line, α2C-adrenoceptor activation inhibits l-DOPA uptake, and in mice, deletion or blockade of α2C-adrenoceptors increases l-DOPA kidney tissue levels.
Role of endothelin-1 in renal regulation of acid-base equilibrium in acidotic humans
Authors: Pallini Alexandra , Hulter Henry N. , Muser Jurgen , Krapf Reto
Published: August 2012

Endothelin-1 inhibits collecting duct sodium reabsorption and stimulates proximal and distal tubule acidification in experimental animals both directly and indirectly via increased mineralocorticoid activity. Diet-induced acid loads have been shown to increase renal endothelin-1 activity, and it is hypothesized that increased dietary acid-induced endothelin-1 activity may be a causative progression factor in human renal insufficiency and that this might be reversed by provision of dietary alkali. We sought to clarify, in normal human volunteers, the role of endothelin-1 in renal acidification and to determine whether the effect is dependent on dietary sodium chloride. Acid-base equilibrium was studied in seven normal human volunteers with experimentally induced metabolic acidosis [NH4Cl 2.1 mmol·kg body weight (BW)−1·day−1] with and without inhibition of endogenous endothelin-1 activity by the endothelin A/B-receptor antagonist bosentan (125 BID p.o./day) both during dietary NaCl restriction (20 mmol/day) and NaCl repletion (2 mmol NaCl·kg BW−1·day−1). During NaCl restriction, but not in the NaCl replete state, bosentan significantly increased renal net acid excretion in association with stimulation of ammoniagenesis resulting in a significantly increased plasma bicarbonate concentration (19.0 ± 0.8 to 20.1 ± 0.9 mmol/l) despite a decrease in mineralocorticoid activity and an increase in endogenous acid production. In pre-existing human metabolic acidosis, endothelin-1 activity worsens acidosis by decreasing the set-point for renal regulation of plasma bicarbonate concentration, but only when dietary NaCl provision is restricted.
Genetic analysis of albuminuria in collaborative cross and multiple mouse intercross populations
Authors: Thaisz Jill , Tsaih Shirng-Wern , Feng Minjie , Philip Vivek M. , Zhang Yunyu , Yanas Liane , Sheehan Susan , Xu Lingfei , Miller Darla R. , Paigen Beverly , Chesler Elissa J. , Churchill Gary A. , DiPetrillo Keith
Published: August 2012

Albuminuria is an important marker of nephropathy that increases the risk of progressive renal and chronic cardiovascular diseases. The genetic basis of kidney disease is well-established in humans and rodent models, but the causal genes remain to be identified. We applied several genetic strategies to map and refine genetic loci affecting albuminuria in mice and translated the findings to human kidney disease. First, we measured albuminuria in mice from 33 inbred strains, used the data for haplotype association mapping (HAM), and detected 10 genomic regions associated with albuminuria. Second, we performed eight F2intercrosses between genetically diverse strains to identify six loci underlying albuminuria, each of which was concordant to kidney disease loci in humans. Third, we used the Oak Ridge National Laboratory incipient Collaborative Cross subpopulation to detect an additional novel quantitative trait loci (QTL) underlying albuminuria. We also performed a ninth intercross, between genetically similar strains, that substantially narrowed an albuminuria QTL on Chromosome 17 to a region containing four known genes. Finally, we measured renal gene expression in inbred mice to detect pathways highly correlated with albuminuria. Expression analysis also identified Glcci1, a gene known to affect podocyte structure and function in zebrafish, as a strong candidate gene for the albuminuria QTL on Chromosome 6. Overall, these findings greatly enhance our understanding of the genetic basis of albuminuria in mice and may guide future studies into the genetic basis of kidney disease in humans.
Tetrodotoxin-resistant voltage-dependent sodium channels in identified muscle afferent neurons
Authors: Ramachandra Renuka , McGrew Stephanie Y. , Baxter James C. , Kiveric Esad , Elmslie Keith S.
Published: August 2012

Muscle afferents are critical regulators of motor function (Group I and II) and cardiovascular responses to exercise (Group III and IV). However, little is known regarding the expressed voltage-dependent ion channels. We identified muscle afferent neurons in dorsal root ganglia (DRGs), using retrograde labeling to examine voltage-dependent sodium (NaV) channels. In patch-clamp recordings, we found that the dominant NaVcurrent in the majority of identified neurons was insensitive to tetrodotoxin (TTX-R), with NaVcurrent in only a few (14%) neurons showing substantial (>50%) TTX sensitivity (TTX-S). The TTX-R current was sensitive to a NaV1.8 channel blocker, A803467. Immunocytochemistry demonstrated labeling of muscle afferent neurons by a NaV1.8 antibody, which further supported expression of these channels. A portion of the TTX-R NaVcurrent appeared to be noninactivating during our 25-ms voltage steps, which suggested activity of NaV1.9 channels. The majority of the noninactivating current was insensitive to A803467 but sensitive to extracellular sodium. Immunocytochemistry showed labeling of muscle afferent neurons by a NaV1.9 channel antibody, which supports expression of these channels. Further examination of the muscle afferent neurons showed that functional TTX-S channels were expressed, but were largely inactivated at physiological membrane potentials. Immunocytochemistry showed expression of the TTX-S channels NaV1.6 and NaV1.7 but not NaV1.1. NaV1.8 and NaV1.9 appear to be the dominant functional sodium channels in small- to medium-diameter muscle afferent neurons. The expression of these channels is consistent with the identification of these neurons as Group III and IV, which mediate the exercise pressor reflex.
Reframing the action and perception dissociation in DF: haptics matters, but how?
Authors: Whitwell Robert L. , Buckingham Gavin
Published: August 2012

Goodale and Milner's (1992) “vision-for-action” and “vision-for-perception” account of the division of labor between the dorsal and ventral “streams” has come to dominate contemporary views of the functional roles of these two pathways. Nevertheless, some lines of evidence for the model remain controversial. Recently, Thomas Schenk reexamined visual form agnosic patient DF's spared anticipatory grip scaling to object size, one of the principal empirical pillars of the model. Based on this new evidence, Schenk rejects the original interpretation of DF's spared ability that was based on segregated processing of object size and argues that DF's spared grip scaling relies on haptic feedback to calibrate visual egocentric cues that relate the posture of the hand to the visible edges of the goal-object. However, a careful consideration of the tasks that Schenk employed reveals some problems with his claim. We suspect that the core issues of this controversy will require a closer examination of the role that cognition plays in the operation of the dorsal and ventral streams in healthy controls and in patient DF.
Uterus Didelphys: Report of a Puerperal Torsion and a Review of the Literature
Authors: Cipullo Lucio M. A. , Milosavljevic Slobodan , van Oudgaarden Elisabeth D.
Published: August 2012

A 29-year-old Para 2 was admitted to the emergency department with increasing lower abdominal pain. The patient had undergone an uncomplicated elective repeat caesarean section 7 days before being admitted to the emergency department. An emergency laparotomy revealed a uterus didelphys with a torsion of one of the uteri.
Further Clinical Validation of the Walking Impairment Questionnaire for Classification of Walking Performance in Patients with Peripheral Artery Disease
Authors: Sagar S. P. , Brown P. M. , Zelt D. T. , Pickett W. L. , Tranmer J. E.
Published: August 2012

The purpose of this study was to further validate theWalking Impairment Questionnaire(WIQ) as a self-report tool to aid in the clinical identification of walking ability of patients with peripheral artery disease (PAD). 132 patients with PAD and an ankle brachial index (ABI) ≤0.90 were enrolled; 123 provided complete data for the WIQ and standardized graded treadmill test. The WIQ scores were consistent with reported scores in other studies. The absolute claudication distance (ACD) ranged from 42.3 to 1589.2 meters; the peak walking time (PWT) ranged from 68 to 1800 seconds. Adjusted WIQ scores were positively and moderately associated with the log transformed ACD and PWT (r>.53,P<.001). Based on the area under the curve analysis, an overall WIQ score of 42.5 or less identified low performers (sensitivity 0.90, specificity 0.73); the combined subscale score of distance and stair of 75.5 or more identified high performers (sensitivity 0.41, specificity 0.90). We conclude that WIQ cut-offs appropriately classify walking performance in PAD patients, making this a potentially useful clinical tool. Consideration needs to be given to incorporating a standardized WIQ version into practice guidelines and the use of innovative strategies to facilitate clinical uptake.
Fallopian Tube Herniation: An Unusual Complication of Surgical Drain
Authors: Sharma Lipi , Singh Alpana , Bhaskaran Sruthi , Radhika A. G. , Radhakrishnan Gita
Published: August 2012

Background. Surgical drains have been used since time immemorial, but their use is not without complications. By presenting this case we aim to describe an uncommon complication of herniation of fallopian tube following the simple procedure of surgical drain removal.Case Presentation. This case describes a 23-year G2P1L1 who underwent an emergency cesarean section for obstructed labor with intraperitoneal drain insertion. The patient had an uneventful postoperative period, drain was removed on day 4, and she was discharged. She presented on day 8 with the complaint of soakage of drain site dressing. On examination an edematous, tubular structure with early sign of necrosis was seen coming out of drain site and a provisional diagnosis of appendix herniation was made. On emergency laparotomy fallopian tube was seen coming out through the drain site and salphingectomy was done.Conclusion. Drains are not a substitute for good surgical technique. Although herniation of intestine, omentum, appendix, gall bladder, and ovary have been reported, we could not find any case of fallopian tube herniation in the literature searched by us.
Concurrent Dual Contrast for Cellular Magnetic Resonance Imaging Using Gadolinium Oxide and Iron Oxide Nanoparticles
Authors: Loai Yasir , Ganesh Tameshwar , Margaret Cheng Hai-Ling
Published: August 2012

Rationale and Objectives. Concurrent visualization of differential targets in cellular and molecular imaging is valuable for resolving processes spatially and temporally, as in monitoring different cell subtypes. The purpose of this study was to demonstrate concurrent, dual (positive and negative) contrast visualization on magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of two colocalized cell populations labeled with Gadolinium “Gd” oxide and iron “Fe” oxide nanoparticles.Materials and Methods. Human aortic endothelial cells (EC) and smooth muscle cells (SMC) were labeled with various concentrations of Gd oxide and Fe oxide, respectively. MRI on single- or mixed-cell samples was performed at 7 tesla. Proper cell phenotype expressions, cell uptake of contrast agents, and the effect of labeling on cell viability and proliferation were also determined.Results. Both contrast agents were efficiently taken up by cells, with viability and proliferation largely unaffected. On MRI, the positive contrast associated with Gd oxide-labeled EC and negative contrast associated with Fe oxide-labeled SMC discriminated the presence of each cell type, whether it existed alone or colocalized in a mixed-cell sample.Conclusion. It is feasible to use Gd oxide and Fe oxide for dual contrast and concurrent discrimination of two colocalized cell populations on MRI at 7 tesla.
ASGR1andASGR2, the Genes that Encode the Asialoglycoprotein Receptor (Ashwell Receptor), Are Expressed in Peripheral Blood Monocytes and Show Interindividual Differences in Transcript Profile
Authors: Harris Rebecca Louise , van den Berg Carmen Wilma , Bowen Derrick John
Published: August 2012

Background. The asialoglycoprotein receptor (ASGPR) is a hepatic receptor that mediates removal of potentially hazardous glycoconjugates from blood in health and disease. The receptor comprises two proteins, asialoglycoprotein receptor 1 and 2 (ASGR1 and ASGR2), encoded by the genesASGR1andASGR2. Design and Methods. Using reverse transcription amplification (RT-PCR), expression ofASGR1andASGR2was investigated in human peripheral blood monocytes.Results. Monocytes were found to expressASGR1andASGR2transcripts. Correctly spliced transcript variants encoding different isoforms of ASGR1 and ASGR2 were present in monocytes. The profile of transcript variants from bothASGR1andASGR2differed among individuals. Transcript expression levels were compared with the hepatocyte cell line HepG2 which produces high levels of ASGPR. Monocyte transcripts were 4 to 6 orders of magnitude less than in HepG2 but nonetheless readily detectable using standard RT-PCR. The monocyte cell line THP1 gave similar results to monocytes harvested from peripheral blood, indicating it may provide a suitable model system for studying ASGPR function in this cell type.Conclusions. Monocytes transcribe and correctly process transcripts encoding the constituent proteins of the ASGPR. Monocytes may therefore represent a mobile pool of the receptor, capable of reaching sites remote from the liver.
Takotsubo-Like Myocardial Dysfunction Accompanied with Cerebellar Hemorrhage
Authors: Tempaku Akira , Kanda Tsugiyasu
Published: August 2012

We report a 71-year-old woman with takotsubo-like myocardial dysfunction accompanied with cerebellar hemorrhage. On admission time, although she was unconscious by cerebellar hemorrhage, no obvious heart failure and serological disorder were observed. Three days later, operation for extraventricular drainage was performed. However, conscious level did not change. Four days after admission, the change of electrocardiogram wave pattern and the decrement of heart wall motion were detected. These findings revealed takotsubo-like myocardial dysfunction had occurred. Physical stresses by cerebellar hemorrhage and cranial operation might cause cardiac disorder. This is a remarkable case of takotsubo-like myocardial dysfunction, which is brought about cerebellar hemorrhage against subarachnoid hemorrhage.
Glassy Carbon Electrode‐Supported Au Nanoparticles for the Glucose Electrooxidation: On the Role of Crystallographic Orientation
Authors: Guerra-Balcázar M. , Torres-González J. , Terol-Villalobos I. , Morales-Hernández J. , Castañeda F.
Published: August 2012

Glucose electrooxidation in alkaline solution was examined using glassy carbon electrodes modified with Au nanoparticles. Au nanoparticles were prepared following the two‐phase protocol and characterized by transmission electron microscopy (TEM), UV‐Vis spectroscopy, X‐ray diffraction spectroscopy (XRD), and cyclic voltammetry (CV). It was found that, under the study conditions, it is possible to obtain nanoparticles between 1 and 5 nm; also it was found that the crystallographic orientation is strongly influenced by the ratio metal/thiol and to a lesser extent by the synthesis temperature. The voltammetric response for the electrocatalytic oxidation of glucose at carbon Au nanoparticle‐modified electrode shows an increasing activity with nanoparticles size. Electroactivity and possibly selectivity are found to be nanoparticles′ crystallographic orientation dependent. Classical electrochemical analysis shows that glucose electrooxidation is a diffusion‐controlled process followed by a homogenous reaction.
Simulation and System Design of a 3D Metrology Optical System Based on a Bidirectional OLED Microdisplay
Authors: Großmann Constanze , Gawronski Ute , Breibarth Martin , Notni Gunther , Tünnermann Andreas
Published: August 2012

Innovative display technologies enable a wide range of different system applications. specifically, in metrology, medical, and automotive applications microdisplays were increasingly used. In the last decades OLED microdisplays were in the focus of display development. A new class of OLED microdisplays with an integrated photodiode array is the latest development. The so-called bi-directional OLED microdisplays combine light-emitting devices (AM-OLED microdisplay) and photo sensitive detectors (photodiode matrix) on one single chip based on OLED-on-CMOS-technology. Currently this kind of display is still a prototype. Based on such a novel bidirectional OLED microdisplay, we present for the first time a system simulation and design of a 3D optical surface metrology system. The first step is the full characterization of the microdisplay. Depending on the characterization results the future system parameters are determined. Based on the characterization results and the application parameters the system design parameters are defined. The functionality of the system is simulated, and a theoretical proof of concept is presented. An example for our application on 3D optical surface metrology system is evaluated.
Behavioral, Neurochemical and Neuroendocrine Effects of Abnormal Savda Munziq in the Chronic Stress Mice
Authors: Amat Nurmuhammat , Hoxur Parida , Ming Dang , Matsidik Aynur , Kijjoa Anake , Upur Halmurat
Published: August 2012

Oral administration of Abnormal Savda Munsiq (ASMq), a herbal preparation used in Traditional Uighur Medicine, was found to exert a memory-enhancing effect in the chronic stressed mice, induced by electric foot-shock. The memory improvement of the stressed mice was shown by an increase of the latency time in the step-through test and the decrease of the latency time in the Y-maze test. Treatment with ASMq was found to significantly decrease the serum levels of adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH), corticosterone (CORT) and -endorphin (-EP) as well as the brain and serum level of norepinephrine (NE). Furthermore, ASMq was able to significantly reverse the chronic stress by decreasing the brain and serum levels of the monoamine neurotransmitters dopamine (DA), 5-hydroxytryptamine (5-HT) and 3,4-dihydroxyphenylalanine (DOPAC). The results obtained from this study suggested that the memory-enhancing effect of ASMq was mediated through regulations of neurochemical and neuroendocrine systems.
Effect of Tetramethylammonium Hydroxide on Nucleation, Surface Modification and Growth of Magnetic Nanoparticles
Authors: Andrade Ângela L. , Fabris José D. , Ardisson José D. , Valente Manuel A. , Ferreira José M. F.
Published: August 2012

Nanoparticles of magnetite (Fe3O4) were obtained by reacting ferric chloride with sodium sulphite, through the reduction‐precipitation method. The effects of adding tetramethylammonium hydroxide (TMAOH) during or after the precipitation of the iron oxide were studied in an attempt to obtain well‐dispersed magnetite nanoparticles. Accordingly, the following experimental conditions were tested: (i) precipitation in absence of TMAOH (sample Mt), (ii) the same as (i) after peptizing with TMAOH (Mt1), (iii) TMAOH added to the reaction mixture during the precipitation of magnetite (Mt2). Analyses with transmission electron microscopy (TEM), X‐ray diffraction, Mössbauer spectroscopy, attenuated total reflectance Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (ATR‐FTIR), zeta potential, and magnetization measurements up to 2.5 T revealed that magnetite was normally formed also in the medium containing TMAOH. The degree of particles agglomeration was monitored with laser diffraction and technique and inspection of TEM images. The relative contributions of Néel and Brownian relaxations on the magnetic heat dissipation were studied by investigating the ability of suspensions of these magnetite nanoparticles to release heat in aqueous and in hydrogel media. Based on ATR‐FTIR and zeta potential data, it is suggested that the surfaces of the synthesized magnetite particles treated with TMAOH become coated with (CH3)4N+ cations.
Kinematic Selection Criteria in the Search for Resonances
Authors: Levchenko B. B.
Published: August 2012

In this paper, we discuss some general features of two-body decay kinematics and derive a new set of equations describing boundaries of the physical region in decays. These features via a graphical representation and implementation of selection criteria provide an efficient tool for the background suppression in experimental searches for conventional and exotic (pentaquark, etc.) resonance states.
Fibrolipoma with Osseous and Cartilaginous Metaplasia of Hoffa’s Fat Pad: A Case Report
Authors: Gigis Ioannis , Gigis Panagiotis
Published: August 2012

The most common benign tumors of the mesenchyme are the lipomas. Benign fatty tumors can arise in any location in which fat is present. Fibrolipomas are characterised by fat modules. Most patients affected by such tumors are in the fifth or sixth decade of life. When very close to vital structures such as joints, they may cause functional limitations as well as pain. Osseous and chondroid metaplasia can infrequently manifest after chronic persistence. Given the rarity of this condition, a case of a big fibrolipoma of Hoffa’s fat pad with osseous and cartilaginous metaplasia is reported. A 44-year-old woman presented with an enlarging soft mass on the right knee in the infrapatellar fat pad. After a thorough preoperative clinical and imaging examination, the mass was removed and sent to laboratory where the diagnosis was put. One year after surgery, both local and general condition of the patient were good and no signs of recurrence were found.
Neurogenic Pulmonary Edema Associated with Underlying Lung Disease after a Breakthrough Seizure
Authors: Dutta Gaurav , Demetis Spiro
Published: August 2012

Neurogenic pulmonary edema (NPE) can result from various central nervous system disorders such as brain malignancies, traumatic brain injuries, infections, and seizures. Although the pathogenesis is not completely understood, NPE creates an increase in pulmonary interstitial and alveolar fluid. It has been reported with prolonged seizure activity. Treatment for NPE is largely supportive. If unrecognized, it can lead to hypoxia and respiratory arrest. We report a case of NPE in a middle-aged female patient following a breakthrough seizure in whom an immunological cause for respiratory findings was high on the differential list, based on her past medical history and chronicity of symptoms. Rapid symptomatic and radiological improvement following hospitalization led to the correct diagnosis.
Genetic Markers of Cardiovascular Disease in Rheumatoid Arthritis
Authors: Rodríguez-Rodríguez Luis , López-Mejías Raquel , García-Bermúdez Mercedes , González-Juanatey Carlos , González-Gay Miguel A. , Martín Javier
Published: August 2012

Cardiovascular (CV) disease is the most common cause of premature mortality in patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA). It is the result of an accelerated atherosclerotic process. Both RA and atherosclerosis are complex polygenic diseases. Besides traditional CV risk factors and chronic inflammation, a number of studies have confirmed the role of genetic factors in the development of the atherogenesis observed in RA. In this regard, besides a strong association between theHLA-DRB1*04shared epitope alleles and both endothelial dysfunction, an early step in the atherosclerotic process, and clinically evident CV disease, other polymorphisms belonging to genes implicated in inflammatory and metabolic pathways, located inside and outside the HLA region, such as the 308 variant (G>A, rs1800629) of theTNFAlocus, the rs1801131 polymorphism (A>C; position + 1298) of theMTHFRlocus, or a deletion of 32 base pairs on theCCR5gene, seem to be associated with the risk of CV disease in patients with RA. Despite considerable effort to decipher the genetic basis of CV disease in RA, further studies are required to better establish the genetic influence in the increased risk of CV events observed in patients with RA.
Pareto Design of Decoupled Sliding‐Mode Controllers for Nonlinear Systems Based on a Multiobjective Genetic Algorithm
Authors: Mahmoodabadi M. J. , Bagheri A. , Nariman-zadeh N. , Jamali A. , Abedzadeh Maafi R.
Published: August 2012

This paper presents Pareto design of decoupled sliding‐mode controllers based on a multiobjective genetic algorithm for several fourth‐order coupled nonlinear systems. In order to achieve an optimum controller, at first, the decoupled sliding mode controller is applied to stablize the fourth‐order coupled nonlinear systems at the equilibrium point. Then, the multiobjective genetic algorithm is applied to search the optimal coefficients of the decoupled sliding‐mode control to improve the performance of the control system. Considered objective functions are the angle and distance errors. Finally, the simulation results implemented in the MATLAB software environment are presented for the inverted pendulum, ball and beam, and seesaw systems to assure the effectiveness of this technique.
Water Hammer Modelling and Simulation by GIS
Authors: Hariri Asli K. , Haghi A. K. , Hariri Asli H. , Sabermaash Eshghi E.
Published: August 2012

This work defined an Eulerian-based computational model compared with regression of the relationship between the dependent and independent variables for water hammer surge wave in transmission pipeline. The work also mentioned control of Unaccounted-for-Water (UFW) based on the Geography Information System (GIS) for water transmission pipeline. The experimental results of laboratory model and the field test results showed the validity of prediction achieved by computational model.
Wear-Resistant Ultrahigh-Molecular-Weight Polyethylene-Based Nano- and Microcomposites for Implants
Authors: Panin S. V. , Kornienko L. A. , Sonjaitham N. , Tchaikina M. V. , Sergeev V. P. , Ivanova L. R. , Shilko S. V.
Published: August 2012

The influence of modification by hydroxyapatite (HA) nano- and microparticles on tribotechnical properties of ultrahigh-molecular-weight polyethylene (UHMWPE) was investigated to develop polymer implants for endoprosthesis. It was shown that modification of UHMWPE by hydroxyapatite nanoparticles within range of 0.1–0.5 wt.% results in increase of wear resistance at dry sliding by 3 times. On the other hand adding of 20 wt.% of micron size HA gives rise to the same effect. The effect of increasing wear resistance is not substantially changed at surface treatment of the nano- and microcomposites by N+ion beams as compared with nonirradiated blends. Preliminary joint mechanical activation of UHMWPE powder and fillers results in more uniform distribution of nanofillers in the matrix and, as a result, formation of more ordered structure. Structure within bulk material and surface layers was studied by means of optical profilometry, scanning electron microscopy, infrared spectroscopy, and differential scanning calorimetry. It is shown that adding of hydroxyapatite nanoparticles and high-energy surface treatment of the composite by N+ion implantation improve tribotechnical properties of UHMWPE due to formation of chemical bonds in the composite (crosslinking) and ordering of permolecular structure.
Vitamin E as an Antiosteoporotic Agent via Receptor Activator of Nuclear Factor Kappa-B Ligand Signaling Disruption: Current Evidence and Other Potential Research Areas
Authors: Chin Kok-Yong , Ima-Nirwana Soelaiman
Published: August 2012

Osteoporosis is a growing healthcare burden that affects the quality of life in the aging population. Vitamin E is a potential prophylactic agent that can impede the progression of osteoporosis. Variousin vivostudies demonstrated the antiosteoporotic potential of vitamin E, but evidence on its molecular mechanism of action is limited. A fewin vitrostudies showed that various forms of vitamin E can affect the receptor activator of nuclear factor kappa-B ligand (RANKL) signaling and their molecular targets, thus preventing the formation of osteoclasts in the early stage of osteoclastogenesis. Various studies have also shown that the effects of the different isoforms of vitamin E differ. The effects of single isoforms and combinations of isoforms on bone metabolism are also different. Vitamin E may affect bone metabolism by disruption of free radical-mediated RANKL signaling, by its oestrogen-like effects, by its effects on the molecular mechanism of bone formation, by the anti-inflammatory effects of its long-chain metabolites on bone cells, and by the inhibition of 3-hydroxyl-3-methyglutaryl coenzyme A (HMG-CoA). In conclusion, the vitamin E isoforms have enormous potential to be used as prophylactic and therapeutic agents in preventing osteoporosis, but further studies should be conducted to elucidate their mechanisms of action.
Biological Activity of Lenalidomide and Its Underlying Therapeutic Effects in Multiple Myeloma
Authors: Martiniani Roberta , Di Loreto Valentina , Di Sano Chiara , Lombardo Alessandra , Liberati Anna Marina
Published: August 2012

Lenalidomide is a synthetic compound derived by modifying the chemical structure of thalidomide. It belongs to the second generation of immunomodulatory drugs (IMiDs) and possesses pleiotropic properties. Even if lenalidomide has been shown to be active in the treatment of several hematologic malignancies, this review article is mostly focalized on its mode of action in multiple myeloma. The present paper is about the direct and indirect antitumor effects of lenalidomide on malignant plasmacells, bone marrow microenvironment, bone resorption and host’s immune response. The molecular mechanisms and targets of lenalidomide remain largely unknown, but recent evidence shows cereblon (CRBN) as a possible mediator of its therapeutical effects.