bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Macrophages Are the Determinant of Resistance to and Outcome of Nonlethal Babesia microti Infection in Mice
Authors: Terkawi Mohamad Alaa , Cao Shinuo , Herbas Maria S. , Nishimura Maki , Li Yan , Moumouni Paul Franck Adjou , Pyarokhil Asadullah Hamid , Kondoh Daisuke , Kitamura Nobuo , Nishikawa Yoshifumi , Kato Kentaro , Yokoyama Naoaki , Zhou Jinlin , Suzuki Hiroshi , Igarashi Ikuo , Xuan Xuenan
Published: October 2014

In the present study, we examined the contributions of macrophages to the outcome of infection with
Babesia microti
, the etiological agent of human and rodent babesiosis, in BALB/c mice. Mice were treated with clodronate liposome at different times during the course of
B. microti
infection in order to deplete the macrophages. Notably, a depletion of host macrophages at the early and acute phases of infection caused a significant elevation of parasitemia associated with remarkable mortality in the mice. The depletion of macrophages at the resolving and latent phases of infection resulted in an immediate and temporal exacerbation of parasitemia coupled with mortality in mice. Reconstituting clodronate liposome-treated mice at the acute phase of infection with macrophages from naive mice resulted in a slight reduction in parasitemia with improved survival compared to that of mice that received the drug alone. These results indicate that macrophages play a crucial role in the control of and resistance to
B. microti
infection in mice. Moreover, analyses of host immune responses revealed that macrophage-depleted mice diminished their production of Th1 cell cytokines, including gamma interferon (IFN-γ) and tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α). Furthermore, depletion of macrophages at different times exaggerated the pathogenesis of the infection in deficient IFN-γ
−/−
and severe combined immunodeficiency (SCID) mice. Collectively, our data provide important clues about the role of macrophages in the resistance and control of
B. microti
and imply that the severity of the infection in immunocompromised patients might be due to impairment of macrophage function.
Leishmania major Telomerase TERT Protein Has a Nuclear/Mitochondrial Eclipsed Distribution That Is Affected by Oxidative Stress
Authors: Campelo Riward , Díaz Lozano Isabel , Figarella Katherine , Osuna Antonio , Ramírez José Luis
Published: October 2014

In its canonical role the reverse transcriptase telomerase recovers the telomeric repeats that are lost during DNA replication. Other locations and activities have been recently described for the telomerase protein subunit TERT in mammalian cells. In the present work, using biochemistry, molecular biology, and electron microscopy techniques, we found that in the human parasite
Leishmania major
, TERT (and telomerase activity) shared locations between the nuclear, mitochondrial, and cytoplasmic compartments. Also, some telomerase activity and TERT protein could be found in ∼100-nm nanovesicles. In the mitochondrial compartment, TERT appears to be mainly associated with the kinetoplast DNA. When
Leishmania
cells were exposed to H
2
O
2
, TERT changed its relative abundance and activity between the nuclear and mitochondrial compartments, with the majority of activity residing in the mitochondrion. Finally, overexpression of TERT in
Leishmania
transfected cells not only increased the parasitic cell growth rate but also increased their resistance to oxidative stress.
MifM Monitors Total YidC Activities of Bacillus subtilis, Including That of YidC2, the Target of Regulation
Authors: Chiba Shinobu , Ito Koreaki
Published: October 2014

The YidC/Oxa1/Alb3 family proteins are involved in membrane protein biogenesis in bacteria, mitochondria, and chloroplasts. Recent studies show that YidC uses a channel-independent mechanism to insert a class of membrane proteins into the membrane.
Bacillus subtilis
has two YidC homologs, SpoIIIJ (YidC1) and YidC2 (YqjG); the former is expressed constitutively, while the latter is induced when the SpoIIIJ activity is compromised. MifM is a substrate of SpoIIIJ, and its failure in membrane insertion is accompanied by stable ribosome stalling on the
mifM-yidC2
mRNA, which ultimately facilitates
yidC2
translation. While mutational inactivation of SpoIIIJ has been known to induce
yidC2
expression, here, we show that the level of this induction is lower than that observed when the membrane insertion signal of MifM is defective. Moreover, this partial induction of YidC2 translation is lowered further when YidC2 is overexpressed in
trans
. These results suggest that YidC2 is able to insert MifM into the membrane and to release its translation arrest. Thus, under SpoIIIJ-deficient conditions, YidC2 expression is subject to MifM-mediated autogenous feedback repression. Our results show that YidC2 uses a mechanism that is virtually identical to that used by SpoIIIJ; Arg75 of YidC2 in its intramembrane yet hydrophilic cavity is functionally indispensable and requires negatively charged residues of MifM as an insertion substrate. From these results, we conclude that MifM monitors the total activities of the SpoIIIJ and the YidC2 pathways to control the synthesis of YidC2 and to maintain the cellular capability of the YidC mode of membrane protein biogenesis.
Quorum Sensing Regulates the Osmotic Stress Response in Vibrio harveyi
Authors: van Kessel Julia C. , Rutherford Steven T. , Cong Jian-Ping , Quinodoz Sofia , Healy James , Bassler Bonnie L.
Published: October 2014

Bacteria use a chemical communication process called quorum sensing to monitor cell density and to alter behavior in response to fluctuations in population numbers. Previous studies with
Vibrio harveyi
have shown that LuxR, the master quorum-sensing regulator, activates and represses >600 genes. These include six genes that encode homologs of the
Escherichia coli
Bet and ProU systems for synthesis and transport, respectively, of glycine betaine, an osmoprotectant used during osmotic stress. Here we show that LuxR activates expression of the glycine betaine operon
betIBA-proXWV
, which enhances growth recovery under osmotic stress conditions. BetI, an autorepressor of the
V. harveyi
betIBA-proXWV
operon, activates the expression of genes encoding regulatory small RNAs that control quorum-sensing transitions. Connecting quorum-sensing and glycine betaine pathways presumably enables
V. harveyi
to tune its execution of collective behaviors to its tolerance to stress.
Bilateral adrenal haemorrhage associated with heparin-induced thrombocytopaenia during treatment of Fournier gangrene
Authors: Tattersall Timothy Lee , Thangasamy Isaac A , Reynolds Jamie
Published: October 2014

We present a case of bilateral adrenal haemorrhage (BAH) associated with heparin-induced thrombocytopaenia (HIT) in a 61-year-old man admitted to hospital for the treatment of Fournier's gangrene. He presented to hospital with scrotal swelling and fever, and developed spreading erythaema and a gangrenous scrotum. His scrotum was surgically debrided and intravenous broad-spectrum antibiotics were administered. Unfractionated heparin was given postoperatively for venous thromboembolism prophylaxis. The patient deteriorated clinically 8–11 days postoperatively with delirium, chest pain and severe hypertension followed by hypotension and thrombocytopaenia. Abdominal CT scan revealed bilateral adrenal haemorrhage. Antibodies to the heparin-platelet factor 4 complex were present. HIT-associated BAH was diagnosed and heparin was discontinued. Intravenous bivalirudin and hydrocortisone were started, with rapid improvement in clinical status. BAH is a rare complication of HIT and should be considered in the postoperative patient with unexplained clinical deterioration.
Effect of vitamin D3supplementation on glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c), fructosamine, serum lipids, and body mass index: a randomized, double-blinded, placebo-controlled trial among healthy immigrants living in Norway
Authors: Madar Ahmed A , Knutsen Kirsten V , Stene Lars C , Brekke Mette , Meyer Haakon E , Lagerløv Per
Published: October 2014

Objective

Despite the suggested role of vitamin D in the prevention of diabetes and cardiovascular disease or its risk factors, the evidence is not consistent and there is a paucity of randomized controlled trials in this field. We aimed to investigate the effect of 16-week daily vitamin D3supplementation on glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c), fructosamine, body mass index (BMI), and serum lipids.

Design

Double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled trial.

Setting

Immigrant community centers in Oslo, Norway.

Participants

251 healthy adults aged 18–50 years with a non-Western immigrant background. All participants performed the baseline test and 215 (86%) returned to the follow-up test.

Intervention

16 weeks of daily oral supplementation with either 10 μg vitamin D3, 25 μg vitamin D3,or placebo.

Main outcome measures

Difference in absolute change during the 16-week intervention between the intervention groups combined (10 or 25 μg of vitamin D3/day) and placebo, in HbA1c, fructosamine, serum lipids (total cholesterol, low-density lipoprotein cholesterol, high-density lipoprotein cholesterol, and triglycerides), and BMI.

Results

A total of 215 (86%) participants completed the study. Serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D increased from 29 nmol/L at baseline to 49 nmol/L after intervention, with little change in the placebo group. However, there was no difference in change of HbA1c between those receiving vitamin D3compared with placebo (mean difference: 0.01% (95% CI −0.04 to 0.06, p=0.7)). Neither did the vitamin D3supplementation have any effect on the other end points: fructosamine, serum lipids, and BMI.

Conclusions

16-week vitamin D3supplementation to healthy immigrants from South Asia, the Middle East, or Africa and now living in Norway with low vitamin D status did not improve HbA1c, fructosamine, lipid profiles, or BMI. An updated meta-analysis of similar published trials showed that our results were generally consistent with those of other studies.

Trial registration number

NCT01263288.
A cross-sectional study on health-related knowledge and its predictors among Chinese vocational college students
Authors: Wang Weina , Hou Yanli , Hu Nan , Zhang Dongxian , Tao Junliang , Man Yonghong , Wang Aimei , Li Ling , Bi Yongyi
Published: October 2014

Objectives

This study sought to examine the level of health-related knowledge and its predictors among vocational college students in China.

Study design

A cross-sectional study.

Methods

A survey was performed to collect data on heath-related knowledge and potential risk factors among 708 students in four higher vocational colleges at Nanyang, Henan, China. Linear regression models were conducted to identify the predictors of the level of health-related knowledge.

Results

The level of health-related knowledge among Chinese vocational college students is extremely low (only 1.4% students have an adequate level of health-related knowledge). According to the multivariate analysis, major, year of class, place of origin and a mother's education level are significantly associated with health-related knowledge in Chinese vocational college students.

Conclusions

Health education and health promotion efforts are encouraged to improve the level of health-related knowledge in this population. Attention and efforts to improve health-related knowledge of Chinese vocational college students who come from rural areas, whose mothers have a lower level of education, who are in non-medicine majors and during the first few years of vocational college is warranted.
Using patients’ experiences of adverse events to improve health service delivery and practice: protocol of a data linkage study of Australian adults age 45 and above
Authors: Walton Merrilyn , Smith-Merry Jennifer , Harrison Reema , Manias Elizabeth , Iedema Rick , Kelly Patrick
Published: October 2014

Introduction

Evidence of patients’ experiences is fundamental to creating effective health policy and service responses, yet is missing from our knowledge of adverse events. This protocol describes explorative research redressing this significant deficit; investigating the experiences of a large cohort of recently hospitalised patients aged 45 years and above in hospitals in New South Wales (NSW), Australia.

Methods and analysis

The 45 and Up Study is a cohort of 265 000 adults aged 45 years and above in NSW. Patients who were hospitalised between 1 January and 30 June 2014 will be identified from this cohort using data linkage and a random sample of 20 000 invited to participate. A cross-sectional survey (including qualitative and quantitative components) will capture patients’ experiences in hospital and specifically of adverse events. Approximately 25% of respondents are likely to report experiencing an adverse event. Quantitative components will capture the nature and type of events as well as common features of patients’ experiences. Qualitative data provide contextual knowledge of their condition and care and the impact of the event on individuals. Respondents who do not report an adverse event will report their experience in hospital and be the control group. Statistical and thematic analysis will be used to present a patient perspective of their experiences in hospital; the characteristics of patients experiencing an adverse event; experiences of information sharing after an event (open disclosure) and the other avenues of redress pursued. Interviews with key policymakers and a document analysis will be used to create a map of the current practice.

Ethics and dissemination

Dissemination via a one-day workshop, peer-reviewed publications and conference presentations will enable effective clinical responses and service provision and policy responses to adverse events to be developed.
Frequent callers to the ambulance service: patient profiling and impact of case management on patient utilisation of the ambulance service
Authors: Edwards Melanie J , Bassett Gary , Sinden Levi , Fothergill Rachael T
Published: October 2014

Background

A minority of patients make frequent and excessive calls to the ambulance service, placing a significant burden on limited resources at a time when demand on urgent and emergency care systems is steadily increasing. Little is known about the reasons underlying frequent caller behaviour or the best way to manage this group of patients.

Objectives

The present study aimed to (i) profile frequent callers to the ambulance service and (ii) evaluate the impact of a case management interventional approach on frequent caller behaviour.

Methods

A retrospective review of data from a 2-year period (from 1 April 2009 to 31 March 2011) was conducted. Patients were included in the analysis if they had been accepted for case management intervention by the Patient-Centred Action Team during this period and met the study inclusion criteria.

Results

The review identified 110 frequent callers who met the study inclusion criteria. The majority of frequent callers (86%) had multiple and complex reasons for calling, including frequent medical need, acute or chronic mental health condition, older age and unmet personal or social care needs. In the majority of cases (82%), multiple interventional strategies were required. A significant reduction in median call volume was observed from preintervention to postintervention (from five calls/month to zero calls/month).

Conclusions

Effective management of this complex patient group requires an individualised case management approach in order to identify and tackle the underlying causes of behaviour.
Using semi-global matching point clouds to estimate growing stock at the plot and stand levels: application for a broadleaf-dominated forest in central Europe
Authors: Stepper Christoph , Straub Christoph , Pretzsch Hans
Published: October 2014

Dense image-based point clouds have great potential to accurately assess forest attributes such as growing stock. The objective of this study was to combine height and spectral information obtained from UltraCamXp stereo images to model the growing stock in a highly structured broadleaf-dominated forest (77.5 km2) in southern Germany. We used semi-global matching (SGM) to generate a dense point cloud and subtracted elevation values obtained from airborne laser scanner (ALS) data to compute canopy height. Sixty-seven explanatory variables were derived from the point cloud and an orthoimage for use in the model. Two different approaches — the linear regression model (lm) and the random forests model (rf) — were tested. We investigated the impact that varying amounts of training data had on model performance. Plot data from a previously acquired set of 1875 inventory plots was systematically eliminated to form three progressively less dense subsets of 937, 461, and 226 inventory plots. Model evaluation at the plot level (size: 500 m2) yielded relative root mean squared errors (RMSEs) ranging from 31.27% to 35.61% for lm and from 30.92% to 36.02% for rf. At the stand level (mean stand size: 32 ha), RMSEs from 14.76% to 15.73% for lm and from 13.87% to 14.99% for rf were achieved. Therefore, similar results were obtained from both modeling approaches. The reduction in the number of inventory plots did not considerably affect the precision. Our findings underline the potential for aerial stereo imagery in combination with ALS-based terrain heights to support forest inventory and management.
Atomic structure calculations for Br-like ions
Authors: Goyal Arun , Khatri Indu , Aggarwal Sunny , Singh A.K. , Mohan Man
Published: October 2014

Energy levels, wavefunction compositions, and lifetimes are computed for all levels of 4s24p5, 4s24p44d, and 4s4p6 configurations in Br-like ions (Z = 47–50). We use the multiconfigurational Dirac–Fock method to generate the wavefunctions. We also present the transition wavelengths, oscillator strengths, transition probabilities, and line strengths for the electric dipole (E1) transition from the ground state configuration. We compare our calculated results with the available data in the literature and good agreement is obtained, which confirms the quality of our results. Moreover, we predict some new atomic data that have not been available so far and may be important for plasma diagnostic analysis in fusion plasma.
Toward a continuum model for particle-induced velocity fluctuations in suspension flow through a stenosed geometry
Authors: Janoschek Florian , Harting Jens , Toschi Federico
Published: October 2014

Nonparticulate continuum descriptions allow for computationally efficient modeling of suspension flows at scales that are inaccessible to more detailed particulate approaches. It is well known that the presence of particles influences the effective viscosity of a suspension and that this effect has thus to be accounted for in macroscopic continuum models. The present paper aims at developing a nonparticulate model that reproduces not only the rheology but also the cell-induced velocity fluctuations, responsible for enhanced diffusivity. The results are obtained from a coarse-grained blood model based on the lattice Boltzmann (LB) method. The benchmark system comprises a flow between two parallel plates with one of them featuring a smooth obstacle imitating a stenosis. Appropriate boundary conditions are developed for the particulate model to generate equilibrated cell configurations mimicking an infinite channel in front of the stenosis. The averaged flow field in the bulk of the channel can be described well by a nonparticulate simulation with a matched viscosity. We show that our proposed phenomenological model is capable to reproduce many features of the velocity fluctuations.
Zero distribution of polynomials satisfying a differential-difference equation
Authors: Dominici Diego , Van Assche Walter
Published: October 2014

In this paper, we investigate the asymptotic distribution of the zeros of polynomials Pn(x) satisfying a first-order differential-difference equation. We give several examples of orthogonal and non-orthogonal families.
Relaxed elastic lines of second kind in dual space
Authors: Aydin Gülşah , Gürbüz Nevin , Görgülü Ali , Çöken A. Ceylan
Published: October 2014

In this study, we worked on the second kind of relaxed elastic lines on dual spaces which has an important point on kinematic. We also obtained boundary conditions for this type of curves. Moreover, the minimization problem of the energy which occurs with an applied force on an elastic line was discussed. Then, we researched the formed potential energy due to the applied force and derived boundary conditions for that case.
A Continuous ASM Modelling Approach to Pacemaker Sensing
Authors: Banach Richard , Zhu Huibiao , Su Wen , Wu Xiaofeng
Published: October 2014

The cardiac pacemaker system, proposed as a problem topic in the Verification Grand Challenge, offers a range of difficulties to address for formal specification, development, and verification technologies. We focus on the sensing problem, the question of whether the heart has produced a spontaneous heartbeat or not. This question is plagued by uncertainties arising from the often unpredictable environment that a real pacemaker finds itself in. We develop a time domain tracking approach to this problem, as a complement to the usual frequency domain approach most frequently used. We develop our case study in the continuous ASM (Abstract State Machine) formalism, which is briefly summarised, through a series of refinement and retrenchment steps, each adding new levels of complexity to the model.
Distributive Justice for Self-Organised Common-Pool Resource Management
Authors: Pitt Jeremy , Busquets Dídac , Macbeth Sam
Published: October 2014

In this article, we complement Elinor Ostrom’s institutional design principles for enduring common-pool resource management with Nicholas Rescher’s theory of distributive justice based on the canon of legitimate claims. Two of Ostrom’s principles are that the resource allocation method should be congruent with the local environment, and that those affected by the allocation method (the appropriators) should participate in its selection. However, these principles do not say anything explicitly about the
fairness
of the allocation method or the outcomes it produces: for this, we need a mechanism for distributive justice. Rescher identified a number of different mechanisms, each of which had both its merits and demerits, and instead maintained that distributive justice consisted in identifying the legitimate claims in context, accommodating multiple claims in case of plurality, and reconciling them in case of conflict. Accordingly, we specify a logical axiomatisation of the principles with the canon of legitimate claims, whereby a set of claims is each represented as a voting function, which collectively determine the rank order in which resources are allocated. The appropriators vote on the weight attached to the scoring functions, and so self-organise the allocation method, taking into account both the plurality of and conflict between the claims. Therefore, the appropriators exercise collective choice over the method, and the method itself is congruent with the local environment, taking into account both the resources available and the relative claims of the appropriators. Experiments with a variant of the linear public good game show that this pluralistic self-organising approach produces a better balance of utility and fairness (for agents that comply with the rules of the game) compared to monistic or fixed approaches, provide “fairness over time” (a series of ostensibly unfair individual allocations is revealed to be cumulatively fair), and offer an intuition of how to resolve the free-rider phenomenon in provision and appropriation of common-pool resources.
Influence of Tableting on Enzymatic Activity of Papain along with Determination of Its Percolation Threshold with Microcrystalline Cellulose
Authors: Sharma Manu , Sharma Vinay , Majumdar Dipak K.
Published: October 2014

The binary mixture tablets of papain and microcrystalline cellulose (MCC), dicalcium phosphate dihydrate (DCP), carrageenan, tragacanth, and agar were prepared by direct compression. Carrageenan, tragacanth, and agar provided maximum protection to enzyme activity compared to MCC and DCP. However, stability studies indicated highest loss of enzyme activity with carrageenan, tragacanth, and agar. Therefore, compression behaviour of different binary mixtures of papain with MCC at different compaction pressures, that is, 40–280 MPa, was studied according to Heckel equation. The compressibility studies of binary mixtures indicated brittle behavior of papain. The application of percolation theory on the relationship between critical density as a function of enzyme activity and mixture composition revealed the presence of percolation threshold for binary mixture. Papain-MCC mixture composition showed significant percolation threshold at 18.48% (w/w) papain loading. Microcrystalline cellulose provided higher protection during stability study. However, higher concentrations of microcrystalline cellulose, probably as dominant particles, do not protect the enzyme with their plastic deformation. Below the percolation threshold, that is, 18.48% (w/w) papain amount in mixture with plastic excipient, activity loss increases strongly because of higher shearing forces during compaction due to system dominance of plastic particles. This mixture range should therefore be avoided to get robust formulation of papain.
Evaluation of the Effectiveness of the Iralvex Gel on the Recurrent Aphthous Stomatitis Management
Authors: Khademi Heidar , Iranmanesh Pedram , Moeini Ali , Tavangar Atefeh
Published: October 2014

Introduction.As there is no definitive treatment for the recurrent aphthous stomatitis (RAS), most of the available therapies aim at decreasing pain and discomfort. The aim of this study was to investigate the effectiveness of the Iralvex gel on the RAS management.Material and Methods.In this double-blind and placebo-controlled clinical trial study, twenty patients were treated with the Iralvex gel and the other twenty patients were treated with placebo. In every participant complete healing of lesions, pain duration, and intensity were evaluated. Data were analyzed by independentt-test and analysis of variance.Results.Pain was relieved after 6.10 ± 0.29 days in the Iralvex group in comparison to 8.00 ± 0.33 days in the placebo group (Pvalue ≤0.001). Complete remission in the Iralvex group was after 6.80 ± 0.27 days and 10.20 ± 0.42 days in the placebo group (Pvalue ≤ 0.001). Furthermore, significant differences in the pain intensity between Iralvex and placebo group measured on days 1, 3, and 5 were obtained (Pvalue ≤ 0.01).Conclusion.The results of this study show that Iralvex gel is effective and cheap remedy for treatment of RAS without side effects. This trial is registered withIRCT201207253251N3.
Oscillations for Nonlinear Neutral Delay Differential Equations with Variable Coefficients
Authors: Ahmed Fatima N. , Ahmad Rokiah R. , Din Ummul K. S. , Noorani Mohd S. M.
Published: October 2014

A class of nonlinear neutral delay differential equations is considered. Some new oscillation criteria of all solutions are derived. The obtained results generalize and extend some of well known previous results in the literature.
Indian Jujuba Seed Powder as an Eco-Friendly and a Low-Cost Biosorbent for Removal of Acid Blue 25 from Aqueous Solution
Authors: Krishna L. Sivarama , Reddy A. Sreenath , Zuhairi W. Y. Wan , Taha M. R. , Reddy A. Varada
Published: October 2014

Indian jujuba seed powder (IJSP) has been investigated as a low-cost and an eco-friendly biosorbent, prepared for the removal of Acid Blue 25 (AB25) from aqueous solution. The prepared biomaterial was characterized by using FTIR and scanning electron microscopic studies. The effect of operation variables, such as IJSP dosage, contact time, concentration, pH, and temperature on the removal of AB25 was investigated, using batch biosorption technique. Removal efficiency increased with increase of IJSP dosage but decreased with increase of temperature. The equilibrium data were analyzed by the Langmuir and the Freundlich isotherm models. The data fitted well with the Langmuir model with a maximum biosorption capacity of 54.95 mg g−1. The pseudo-second-order kinetics was the best for the biosorption of AB25 by IJSP, with good correlation. Thermodynamic parameters such as standard free energy change (ΔG0), standard enthalpy changes (ΔH0), and standard entropy changes (ΔS0) were analyzed. The removal of AB25 from aqueous solution by IJSP was a spontaneous and exothermic adsorption process. The results suggest that IJSP is a potential low-cost and an eco-friendly biosorbent for the AB25 removal from synthetic AB25 wastewater.
Immune Activation, Immunosenescence, and Osteoprotegerin as Markers of Endothelial Dysfunction in Subclinical HIV-Associated Atherosclerosis
Authors: D’Abramo Alessandra , Zingaropoli Maria Antonella , Oliva Alessandra , D’Agostino Claudia , Al Moghazi Samir , De Luca Giulia , Iannetta Marco , Mastroianni Claudio Maria , Vullo Vincenzo
Published: October 2014

HIV-infected patients have a significantly greater risk of cardiovascular disease. Several markers including osteoprotegerin have been shown to be involved in the development and progression of atherosclerosis. We investigated the relationship between T-cell phenotype, osteoprotegerin, and atherosclerosis evaluated by carotid intima-media thickness (c-IMT) in 94 HIV+ patients on suppressive antiretroviral therapy with Framingham score <10%. As for the control group, 24 HIV-negative subjects were enrolled. c-IMT was assessed by ultrasound. CD4+/CD8+ T-cell activation (CD38+ HLADR+) and senescence (CD57+ CD28−) were measured by flow cytometry. IL-6 and OPG levels were measured by ELISA kit. c-IMT was higher in HIV+ than in controls. Among HIV+ patients, 44.7% had pathological c-IMT (≥0.9 mm). CD8+ T-cell activation and senescence and OPG plasma levels were higher in HIV+ patients than in controls. Subjects with pathological c-IMT exhibited higher CD8+ immune activation and immunosenescence and OPG levels than subjects with normal c-IMT. Multivariate analysis showed that age, CD8+ CD38+ HLADR+, and CD8+ CD28− CD57+ were independently associated with pathological c-IMT. Several factors have been implicated in the pathogenesis of atherosclerosis in HIV patients. Immune activation and immunosenescence of CD8+ T cell together with OPG plasma levels might be associated with the development and progression of early atherosclerosis, even in the case of viral suppression.
Analysis of Blocking Rate and Bandwidth Usage of Mobile IPTV Services in Wireless Cellular Networks
Authors: Li Mingfu
Published: October 2014

Mobile IPTV services over wireless cellular networks become more and more popular, owing to the significant growth in access bandwidth of wireless cellular networks such as 3G/4G and WiMAX. However, the spectrum resources of wireless cellular networks is rare. How to enhance the spectral efficiency of mobile networks becomes an important issue. Unicast, broadcast, and multicast are the most important transport schemes for offering mobile IPTV services over wireless cellular networks. Therefore, bandwidth usages and blocking rates of unicast, broadcast, and multicast IPTV services were analyzed and compared in this paper. Simulations were also conducted to validate the analytical results. Numerical results demonstrate that the presented analysis is correct, and multicast scheme achieves the best bandwidth usage and blocking rate performance, relative to the other two schemes.
Mitral Valve Surgery in Patients with Systemic Lupus Erythematosus
Authors: Foroughi Mahnoosh , Hekmat Manouchehr , Ghorbani Mohsen , Ghaderi Hamid , Majidi Masoud , Beheshti Mahmood
Published: October 2014

Valvular heart disease is the common cardiac manifestation of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) with a tendency for mitral valve regurgitation. In this study we report a case of mitral valve replacement for mitral stenosis caused by Libman-Sacks endocarditis in the setting of SLE. In addition, we provide a systematic review of the literature on mitral valve surgery in the presence of Libman-Sacks endocarditis because its challenge on surgical options continues. Surgical decision depends on structural involvement of mitral valve and presence of active lupus nephritis and antiphospholipid antibody syndrome. Review of the literature has also shown that outcome is good in most SLE patients who have undergone valvular surgery, but association of antiphospholipid antibody syndrome with SLE has negative impact on the outcome.
Semi-Fredholm Solvability in the Framework of Singular Solutions for the (3+1)-D Protter-Morawetz Problem
Authors: Popivanov Nedyu , Popov Todor , Tesdall Allen
Published: October 2014

For the four-dimensional nonhomogeneous wave equation boundary value problems that are multidimensional analogues of Darboux problems in the plane are studied. It is known that for smooth right-hand side functions the unique generalized solution may have a strong power-type singularity at only one point. This singularity is isolated at the vertexOof the boundary light characteristic cone and does not propagate along the bicharacteristics. The present paper describes asymptotic expansions of the generalized solutions in negative powers of the distance toO. Some necessary and sufficient conditions for existence of bounded solutions are proven and additionally a priori estimates for the singular solutions are obtained.
Integral Transform Methods for Solving Fractional Dynamic Equations on Time Scales
Authors: Segi Rahmat Mohamad Rafi
Published: October 2014

We introduce nabla type Laplace transform and Sumudu transform on general time scale. We investigate the properties and the applicability of these integral transforms and their efficiency in solving fractional dynamic equations on time scales.
The Fixed Points of Solutions of Someq-Difference Equations
Authors: Zheng Xiu-Min , Xu Hong-Yan , Xu Jun-Feng
Published: October 2014

The purpose of this paper is to investigate the fixed points of solutionsf(z)of someq-difference equations and obtain some results about the exponents of convergence of fixed points off(z)andf(qjz)  (j∈N+),q-differencesΔqf(z)=f(qz)-f(z), andq-divided differencesΔqf(z)/f(z).
Floristic Diversity and Distribution Pattern of Plant Communities along Altitudinal Gradient in Sangla Valley, Northwest Himalaya
Authors: Sharma Pankaj , Rana J. C. , Devi Usha , Randhawa S. S. , Kumar Rajesh
Published: October 2014

Himalayas are globally important biodiversity hotspots and are facing rapid loss in floristic diversity and changing pattern of vegetation due to various biotic and abiotic factors. This has necessitated the qualitative and quantitative assessment of vegetation here. The present study was conducted in Sangla Valley of northwest Himalaya aiming to assess the structure of vegetation and its trend in the valley along the altitudinal gradient. In the forest and alpine zones of the valley, 15 communities were recorded. Study revealed 320 species belonging to 199 genera and 75 families. Asteraceae, Rosaceae, Apiaceae, and Ranunculaceae were dominant. Among genera,Artemisiafollowed byPolygonum,Saussurea,Berberis, andThalictrumwere dominant. Tree and shrub’s density ranged from 205 to 600 and from 105 to 1030 individual per hectare, respectively, whereas herbs ranged from 22.08 to 78.95 individual/m2. Nearly 182 species were native to the Himalaya. Maximum altitudinal distribution of few selected climate sensitive species was found to be highest in northeast and north aspects. This study gives an insight into the floristic diversity and community structure of the fragile Sangla Valley which was hitherto not available.
Arsenic Contamination of Groundwater: A Review of Sources, Prevalence, Health Risks, and Strategies for Mitigation
Authors: Shankar Shiv , Shanker Uma , Shikha
Published: October 2014

Arsenic contamination of groundwater in different parts of the world is an outcome of natural and/or anthropogenic sources, leading to adverse effects on human health and ecosystem. Millions of people from different countries are heavily dependent on groundwater containing elevated level of As for drinking purposes. As contamination of groundwater, poses a serious risk to human health. Excessive and prolonged exposure of inorganic As with drinking water is causing arsenicosis, a deteriorating and disabling disease characterized by skin lesions and pigmentation of the skin, patches on palm of the hands and soles of the feet. Arsenic poisoning culminates into potentially fatal diseases like skin and internal cancers. This paper reviews sources, speciation, and mobility of As and global overview of groundwater As contamination. The paper also critically reviews the As led human health risks, its uptake, metabolism, and toxicity mechanisms. The paper provides an overview of the state-of-the-art knowledge on the alternative As free drinking water and various technologies (oxidation, coagulation flocculation, adsorption, and microbial) for mitigation of the problem of As contamination of groundwater.
Modified Anchor Shaped Post Core Design for Primary Anterior Teeth
Authors: Rajesh R. , Baroudi Kusai , Reddy K. Bala Kasi , Praveen B. H. , Kumar V. Sumanth , Amit S.
Published: October 2014

Restoring severely damaged primary anterior teeth is challenging to pedodontist. Many materials are tried as a post core but each one of them has its own drawbacks. This a case report describing a technique to restore severely damaged primary anterior teeth with a modified anchor shaped post. This technique is not only simple and inexpensive but also produces better retention.
Some Notes on the Existence of Solution for Ordinary Differential Equations via Fixed Point Theory
Authors: He Fei
Published: October 2014

We establish a fixed point theorem withw-distance for nonlinear contractive mappings in complete metric spaces. As applications of our results, we derive the existence and uniqueness of solution for a first-order ordinary differential equation with periodic boundary conditions. Here, we need not assume that the equation has a lower solution.
Radiation Characteristic Improvement of X-Band Slot Antenna Using New Multiband Frequency-Selective Surface
Authors: Moharamzadeh Elham
Published: October 2014

A new configuration of frequency-selective surfaces (FSSs) is designed and presented with multiresonance characteristics which covers all of the frequency domain of X-band from 8 to 12 GHz. The proposed FSS comprises three conductor-based split ring resonators, connected together. In this design, two unit cells of the FSS with different lengths are employed side by side to design the FSS. The FSS is used to enhance the gain of the new designed triangle slot antenna at X-band. The proposed FSS is analyzed by using reflected-wave unit-cell box method. The single, double, and array of the FSS cells are studied. Next, the designed FSS along with the antenna is analyzed. The measurement and simulated results of the impedance and radiation characteristics, especially the increment of the gain, are presented.
Treatment of Dentinal Hypersensitivity by means of Nd:YAP Laser: A PreliminaryIn VitroStudy
Authors: Namour Amaury , Nammour Samir , Peremans André , Heysselaer Daniel , De Moor Roeland J. G.
Published: October 2014

Objective. The aim of this study is to evaluate the effectiveness of Nd:YAP laser to seal dentinal tubules at different parameters.Material and Methods. 24 caries-free human wisdom impacted molars were used. The crowns were sectioned transversally in order to totally expose the dentin. The smear layer was removed by a 1 min application of EDTA. Each surface was divided into four quadrants, but only three quadrants were irradiated at a different output power setting (irradiation speed: 1 mm/sec; optical fiber diameter: 320 µm; tangential incidence of beam and in noncontact mode). Samples were smeared with a graphite paste prior to laser irradiation. All specimens were sent for SEM analysis. Pulp temperature increases in additional twenty teeth were measured by a thermocouple.Results. Morphological changes in dentin surfaces depend on the value of used energy density. Higher energy densities (2 W–4 W; 200–400 mJ; pulse duration: 100 m sec.; and 10 Hz) induce higher dentin modifications. Our results confirmed that Nd:YAP laser irradiations can lead to total or partial occlusion of dentin tubules without provoking fissures or cracks. Measurements of pulp temperature increases showed that Nd:YAP laser beam can be considered as harmless for pulp vitality for following irradiation conditions: 2 W (200 mJ) to 4 W (400 mJ) with an irradiation speed of 1 mm/sec; fiber diameter: 320 micrometers; 10 Hz; pulse duration: 100 m sec; noncontact mode and in tangential incidence to exposed dentin. The perpendicular incidence of the laser beam on exposed dentin may injure pulp vitality even at low output power of 3 W.Conclusions. Nd:YAP laser beam was able to seal the dentin tubules without damaging dentinal surfaces and without harming pulp vitality. Nd:YAP laser is effective and may be safely used for futurein vivotreatments of dentinal hypersensitivity under certain conditions.
An Approach to Differential Diagnosis of Antiphospholipid Antibody Syndrome and Related Conditions
Authors: Emmi Giacomo , Silvestri Elena , Squatrito Danilo , Ciucciarelli Lucia , Cameli Anna Maria , Denas Gentian , D’Elios Mario Milco , Pengo Vittorio , Emmi Lorenzo , Prisco Domenico
Published: October 2014

The antiphospholipid antibody syndrome is a systemic, acquired, immune-mediated disorder characterized by episodes of venous, arterial, or microcirculation thrombosis and/or pregnancy abnormalities, associated with the persistent presence of autoantibodies, confirmed at least in two occasions 12 weeks apart, directed to molecular complexes consisting of phospholipids and proteins. Antiphospholipid antibody syndrome should always be considered as a potential diagnosis especially for young patients presenting with a history of thrombotic events, in particular when they occur without any obvious external trigger or any inherited thrombophilic mutation (even if 2006 criteria do not exclude antiphospholipid antibody syndrome in patients with other inherited or acquired prothrombotic conditions), or for women with recurrent pregnancy losses or later fetal deaths. Many other disorders are able to mimic antiphospholipid antibody syndrome, so a broad range of alternative diagnoses should be investigated and ruled out during clinical workup.
Dietary Hyaluronic Acid Migrates into the Skin of Rats
Authors: Oe Mariko , Mitsugi Koichi , Odanaka Wataru , Yoshida Hideto , Matsuoka Ryosuke , Seino Satoshi , Kanemitsu Tomoyuki , Masuda Yasunobu
Published: October 2014

Hyaluronic acid is a constituent of the skin and helps to maintain hydration. The oral intake of hyaluronic acid increases water in the horny layer as demonstrated by human trials, but in vivo kinetics has not been shown. This study confirmed the absorption, migration, and excretion of14C-labeled hyaluronic acid (14C-hyaluronic acid).14C-hyaluronic acid was orally or intravenously administered to male SD rats aged 7 to 8 weeks. Plasma radioactivity after oral administration showed the highest level 8 hours after administration, and orally administered14C-hyaluronic acid was found in the blood. Approximately 90% of14C-hyaluronic acid was absorbed from the digestive tract and used as an energy source or a structural constituent of tissues based on tests of the urine, feces, expired air, and cadaver up to 168 hours (one week) after administration. The autoradiographic results suggested that radioactivity was distributed systematically and then reduced over time. The radioactivity was higher in the skin than in the blood at 24 and 96 hours after administration. The results show the possibility that orally administered hyaluronic acid migrated into the skin. No excessive accumulation was observed and more than 90% of the hyaluronic acid was excreted in expired air or urine.
A Kind of Complete Moment Convergence for Sums of Independent and Nonidentically Distributed Random Variables
Authors: Wang Bao , Zhu Quanxin
Published: October 2014

Let{X,Xn,n≥1}be a sequence of independent and nonidentically distributed random variables. We obtain a new kind of complete moment convergence for their sums under the Lyapunov condition. Moreover, our result extends and improves the corresponding result of the independent and identically distributed (i.i.d.) cases.
Response Surface Methodology: Optimisation of Antifungal Bioemulsifier from NovelBacillus thuringiensis
Authors: Rajendran Deepak , Venkatachalam Ponnusami , Ramakrishnan Jayapradha
Published: October 2014

An antifungal bioemulsifier compound was produced from a novel strain ofBacillus thuringiensispak2310. To accentuate the production and as the first step to improve the yield, a central composite design (CCD) was used to study the effect of various factors like minimal salts (1X and 3X), glycerol concentration (2% and 4%), beef extract concentration (1% and 3%), and sunflower oil concentration (2% and 4%) on the production of bioemulsifier molecule and to optimize the conditions to increase the production. TheE24emulsification index was used as the response variable as the increase in surfactant production was seen to be proportional to increased emulsification. A quadratic equation was employed to express the response variable in terms of the independent variables. Statistical tools like student’st-test,F-test, and ANOVA were employed to identify the important factors and to test the adequacy of the model. Under optimum conditions (1X concentration of minimal salts (MS), 2.6% glycerol (v/v), 1% beef extract (w/v), and 2% sunflower oil (v/v)) a 65% increase in yield was produced.
A Kastler-Kalau-Walze Type Theorem for 7-Dimensional Manifolds with Boundary
Authors: Wang Jian , Wang Yong
Published: October 2014

We give a brute-force proof of the Kastler-Kalau-Walze type theorem for 7-dimensional manifolds with boundary.
Influenza A/H1N1 Severe Pneumonia: Novel Morphocytological Findings in Bronchoalveolar Lavage
Authors: Faverio Paola , Aliberti Stefano , Ezekiel Clinton , Messinesi Grazia , Brenna Ambrogio , Pesci Alberto
Published: October 2014

We present the results of bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) performed in three patients with severe influenza A/H1N1 pneumonia complicated by acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS). Light microscopy analysis of BAL cytocentrifugates showed the presence of characteristic large, mononuclear, plasmoblastic/plasmocytoid-like cells never described before. Via transmission electron microscopy, these cells were classified as atypical type II pneumocytes and some of them showed cytoplasmic vesicles and inclusions. We concluded that plasmoblastic/plasmocytoid-like type II pneumocytes might represent a morphologic marker of A/H1N1 influenza virus infection as well as reparative cellular activation after diffuse alveolar damage.
Anatomy of the Facial Nerve at the Condylar Area: Measurement Study and Clinical Implications
Authors: Yang Hun-Mu , Yoo Young-Bok
Published: October 2014

The aim of this study was to elucidate the detailed anatomy of the facial nerve (FN) at the condylar area to helping physicians preventing the iatrogenic trauma on the nerve. We dissected 25 specimens of the embalmed Korean cadavers (13 males and 2 females; mean age 76.9 years). The FN course at the condylar was examined, and the location of the FN branches was measured with superficial standards. The trunks of the FN emerged in the condylar area as one trunk, two trunks, and a loop or plexiform in 36%, 12%, and 52% areas, respectively. The zygomatic branch (Zbr) of FN passed over the tragus-alar line 23 mm anterior to the tragus (Tg) in most of the cases. The Zbr passed over the vertical line 2 cm anterior to the Tg through the area about 6 to 20 mm inferior to the Tg. Regardless of careful approach techniques to the condylar area, the FN could be damaged by a careless manipulation. Any reference landmarks could not guarantee the safety during the approach to the condylar area because more than half of the cases present the complicated branching type in the front of the Tg.