bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Hybrid nonvolatile disk cache for energy-efficient and high-performance systems
Authors: Shi Liang , Li Jianhua , Jason Xue Chun , Zhou Xuehai
Published: January 2013

NAND flash memory has been employed as disk cache in recent years. It has the advantages of high performance, low leakage power, and cost efficiency. However, flash memory's performance is limited by the inability of in-place updates, coarse access granularity, and a limited number of write/erase times. In this article, we propose a hybrid nonvolatile disk cache architecture for high-performance and energy-efficient systems, where the disk cache is implemented with a small-size phase change memory (PCM) and a large-size NAND flash memory. Compared with current flash memory-based disk cache, it has the following advantages. (1) System performance is improved as requests are carefully directed between PCM and flash memory; (2) the energy consumption of disk cache is substantially reduced with significant reduction of additional operations, such as garbage collections; (3) the efficiency of flash memory is improved with the reduction of write activities on flash memory; and (4) lifetime of NAND flash memory is increased with most of the write operations assigned to PCM, where PCM's lifetime is guaranteed to be longer than the lifetime of flash memory. Simulation results show that the proposed methods can substantially improve the system performance, energy consumption, and lifetime of the hybrid disk cache.
Absence of cumulus cells during in vitro maturation affects lipid metabolism in bovine oocytes
Authors: Auclair Sylvain , Uzbekov Rustem , Elis Sébastien , Sanchez Laura , Kireev Igor , Lardic Lionel , Dalbies-Tran Rozenn , Uzbekova Svetlana
Published: January 2013

Cumulus cells (CC) surround the oocyte and are coupled metabolically through regulation of nutrient intake. CC removal before in vitro maturation (IVM) decreases bovine oocyte developmental competence without affecting nuclear meiotic maturation. The objective was to investigate the influence of CC on oocyte cytoplasmic maturation in relation to energy metabolism. IVM with either cumulus-enclosed (CEO) or -denuded (DO) oocytes was performed in serum-free metabolically optimized medium. Transmission electron microscopy revealed different distribution of membrane-bound vesicles and lipid droplets between metaphase II DO and CEO. By Nile Red staining, a significant reduction in total lipid level was evidenced in DO. Global transcriptomic analysis revealed differential expression of genes regulating energy metabolism, transcription, and translation between CEO and DO. By Western blot, fatty acid synthase (FAS) and hormone-sensitive phospholipase (HSL) proteins were detected in oocytes and in CC, indicating a local lipogenesis and lypolysis. FAS protein was significantly less abundant in DO that in CEO and more highly expressed in CC than in the oocytes. On the contrary, HSL protein was more abundant in oocytes than in CC. In addition, active Ser563-phosphorylated HSL was detected in the oocytes only after IVM, and its level was similar in CEO and DO. In conclusion, absence of CC during IVM affected lipid metabolism in the oocyte and led to suboptimal cytoplasmic maturation. Thus, CC may influence the oocyte by orienting the consumption of nutritive storage via regulation of local fatty acid synthesis and lipolysis to provide energy for maturation.
Hypoxic adaptation engages the CBP/CREST-induced coactivator complex of Creb-HIF-1α in transactivating murine neuroblastic glucose transporter
Authors: Thamotharan Shanthie , Raychaudhuri Nupur , Tomi Masatoshi , Shin Bo-Chul , Devaskar Sherin U.
Published: January 2013

We have shown in vitro a hypoxia-induced time-dependent increase in facilitative glucose transporter isoform 3 (GLUT3) expression in N2A murine neuroblasts. This increase in GLUT3 expression is partially reliant on a transcriptional increase noted in actinomycin D and cycloheximide pretreatment experiments. Transient transfection assays in N2A neuroblasts using murine glut3-luciferase reporter constructs mapped the hypoxia-induced enhancer activities to −857- to −573-bp and −203- to −177-bp regions. Hypoxia-exposed N2A nuclear extracts demonstrated an increase in HIF-1α and p-Creb binding to HRE (−828 to −824 bp) and AP-1 (−187 to −180 bp) cis-elements, respectively, in electromobility shift and supershift assays, which was confirmed by chromatin immunoprecipitation assays. In addition, the interaction of CBP with Creb and HIF-1α and CREST with CBP in hypoxia was detected by coimmunoprecipitation. Furthermore, small interference (si)RNA targeting Creb in these cells decreased endogenous Creb concentrations that reduced by twofold hypoxia-induced glut3 gene transcription. Thus, in N2A neuroblasts, phosphorylated HIF-1α and Creb mediated the hypoxia-induced increase in glut3 transcription. Coactivation by the Ca++-dependent CREST and CBP proteins may enhance cross-talk between p-Creb-AP-1 and HIF-1α/HRE of the glut3 gene. Collectively, these processes can facilitate an adaptive response to hypoxic energy depletion targeted at enhancing glucose transport and minimizing injury while fueling the proliferative potential of neuroblasts.
Detection of t(14;16)(q32;q22) and Monosomy 13 by FISH Analysis in a Patient with Multiple Myeloma Associated with Sjögren’s Syndrome: The First Case Report from India
Authors: Sanap Rupesh R. , Athalye Arundhati S. , Madon Prochi F. , Dhabhar Boman N. , Sute Mahendra B. , Mahabale Amit A. , Warang Dhanashree J. , Parikh Firuza R.
Published: January 2013

Sjögren’s syndrome (SS) is a chronic slowly progressive autoimmune disorder characterized by symptoms of oral and ocular dryness, exocrine dysfunction, and lymphocytic infiltration of exocrine glands. Multiple myeloma (MM) is a bone-marrow-based malignant neoplasm of plasma cells associated with serum/urine monoclonal paraproteins and lytic skeletal lesions. There have been very few reported cases of MM, who had SS as the first presentation. We report a case of a woman diagnosed with Sjögren’s syndrome, who was later suspected to have multiple myeloma on serum protein electrophoresis. Fluorescencein situhybridization (FISH) was carried out to check for deletions of loci 13q14.3, ATM, p53, and IGH (14q32) rearrangements on a bone marrow aspirate. Monosomy 13 was observed in 49% of cells, and a rearrangement at the IGH locus was seen in 42% of cells. To determine the partner chromosome associated with the IGH rearrangement, further FISH tests were set up for t(4;14)(p16;q32) followed by t(14;16)(q32;q22) on fresh slides. The test was negative for t(4;14) but positive for t(14;16) in 27% of cells. This confirmed the diagnosis of MM. We report the first case from India, having an association of Sjögren’s syndrome with multiple myeloma, which showed t(14;16) and monosomy 13 by FISH analysis.
Differences in Median Ultraviolet Light Transmissions of Serial Homeopathic Dilutions of Copper Sulfate,Hypericum perforatum, and Sulfur
Authors: Klein Sabine D. , Sandig Annegret , Baumgartner Stephan , Wolf Ursula
Published: January 2013

Homeopathic remedies are produced by potentising, that is, the serial logarithmic dilution and succussion of a mother tincture. Techniques like ultraviolet spectroscopy, nuclear magnetic resonance, calorimetry, or thermoluminescence have been used to investigate their physical properties. In this study, homeopathic centesimal (c) potencies (6c to 30c) of copper sulfate,Hypericum perforatum, and sulfur as well as succussed water controls were prepared. Samples of these preparations were exposed to external physical factors like heat, pressure, ultraviolet radiation, or electromagnetic fields to mimic possible everyday storage conditions. The median transmissions from 190 nm to 340 nm and 220 nm to 340 nm were determined by ultraviolet light spectroscopy on five measurement days distributed over several months. Transmissions of controls and potencies of sulfur differed significantly on two of five measurement days and after exposure to physical factors. Transmissions of potencies exposed to ultraviolet light and unexposed potencies of copper sulfate and Hypericum perforatum differed significantly. Potency levels 6c to 30c were also compared, and wavelike patterns of higher and lower transmissions were found. The Kruskal-Wallis test yielded significant differences for the potency levels of all three substances. Aiming at understanding the physical properties of homeopathic preparations, this study confirmed and expanded the findings of previous studies.
Synthesis and Evaluation of Magnetic Nanoparticles for Biomedical Applications
Authors: Bolden Nydeia W. , Rangari Vijaya K. , Jeelani Shaik , Boyoglu Seyhan , Singh Shree R.
Published: January 2013

In this study, iron oxide (IO) nanoparticles from various precursors have been synthesized using sonochemical method and characterized for their structural variability and toxicity. The iron oxide (IO) precursor solutions were prepared from iron acetate (IA), iron pentacarbonyl (IP), decalin, PEG (poly(ethylene glycol)), EG (ethylene glycol), PVA (poly(vinyl alcohol)), β-cyclodextrin (CD), and distilled water. These precursor solutions were irradiated with high power ultrasound for 3 hours and heat treated as needed. These as-prepared iron oxide nanoparticles were characterized using X-ray diffraction (XRD), Mössbauer spectroscopy, transmission electron microscopy (TEM), and magnetization measurements. XRD results show that all the particles are highly crystalline in nature and the particles sizes measured from TEM are approximately 5–20 nm. The maximum magnetization was observed for IO-IP at approximately 60.17 emu/g and the minimum was approximately 30.56 emu/g for IO-IA. These results confirm that the particles are superparamagnetic (SPM) in nature. Mössbauer spectroscopy verified the magnetic nanoparticles are purely Fe3O4 and particles sizes varied by the nature of the precursor and coatings.
Secure Routing Protocol Using Cross-Layer Design and Energy Harvesting in Wireless Sensor Networks
Authors: Alrajeh Nabil Ali , Khan Shafiullah , Lloret Jaime , Loo Jonathan
Published: January 2013

Energy efficiency is the main concern of research community while designing routing protocols for wireless sensor networks (WSNs). This concern can be addressed by using energy-harvesting scheme in routing protocols. In this paper, we propose a secure routing protocol that is based on cross layer design and energy-harvesting mechanism. It uses a distributed cluster-based security mechanism. In the cross-layer design, parameters are exchanged between different layers to ensure efficient use of energy. Energy-harvesting system is used to extract and store energy, which is used to take decisions for the node state and thus for the routing issues. Simulation results show that our routing protocol can perform better in many scenarios and in hostile attack-prone environment.
Molecular Modeling Studies of Substituted 2,4,5‐Trisubstituted Triazolinones Aryl and Nonaryl Derivatives as Angiotensin II AT1 Receptor Antagonists
Authors: Sharma Mukesh C. , Kohli D. V. , Sharma Smita
Published: January 2013

The development of new therapies to treat hypertension and cardiovascular diseases. A series of 2,4,5‐trisubstituted triazolinones aryl and nonaryl derivatives were subjected to Group-based QSAR, k-nearest neighbour molecular field analysis, and pharmacophore mapping. Multiple linear regression (MLR) methodology coupled with feature selection method namely simulated annealing, was applied to derive Group based QSAR models which were further validated for statistical significance and predictive ability by internal and external validation. The best physicochemical descriptors, namely, R1chiV1, R2T_N_O_3, R2chlorines count, R2T_C_N_4, and R2SssNHE index, contribute significantly to the biological activity. The statistically significant best Group‐based QSAR model has r2 = 0.8357 and q2 = 0.7266 with pred_r2 = 0.8138. The 3D‐QSAR studies were performed using the simulated annealing selection k‐nearest neighbor molecular field analysis approach; a leave‐one‐out cross‐validated correlation coefficient q2 = 0.7461 and predicate activity pred_r2 = 0.7790 were obtained. Contour maps using this approach showed that steric, electrostatic, and hydrophobic effects dominantly determine binding affinities. Pharmacophore hypotheses were generated by the mol sign module and found to contain common features like hydrogen bond donor acceptor, donor, positive, negative ionizable, and hydrophobic features. This model can be used for preliminary screening of large number of substituted 3H‐1,‐2,‐4 triazolinone aryl and nonaryl derivatives. The information rendered by 3D‐QSAR models may lead to a better understanding of structural requirements of triazolinone aryl and nonaryl derivatives and also aid in designing novel potent antihypertensive molecules.
Studies on Synthesis and Spectral Characterization of Some Transition Metal Complexes of Azo-Azomethine Derivative of Diaminomaleonitrile
Authors: Anitha C. , Sheela C. D. , Tharmaraj P. , Shanmugakala R.
Published: January 2013

New complexes of 2,3-bis(5-(4-chlorophenyl)diazenyl)-2-hydroxybenzylideneamino)maleonitrile (CDHBDMN) with VO(II), Mn(II), Co(II), Ni(II), Cu(II), and Zn(II) were synthesized and characterized by analytical and physicochemical techniques, that is, elemental analyses, molar conductivity, UV, IR, EPR, 1H-NMR spectra, magnetic susceptibility and also by aid of scanning electron microscopy (SEM), nonlinear optical study (NLO), fluorescence spectral studies, and solvatochromic behaviors. Electronic and magnetic susceptibility measurements of the complexes indicate square pyramidal geometry for VO(II), octahedral for Ni(II), and square planar geometry for all the other complexes. The EPR spectral data provide information about their structures on the basis of Hamiltonian parameters and the degree of covalency. These metal complexes were also tested for their antibacterial and antifungal activities to assess their inhibiting potential. Metal-mediated fluorescence enhancement is observed on complexation of the azo Schiff base ligand. The synthesized compounds were investigated for nonlinear optical properties, and the surface morphology of the Cu(II) complex was studied by scanning electron microscopy.
Spinning Dust Radiation: A Review of the Theory
Authors: Ali-Haïmoud Yacine
Published: January 2013

This paper reviews the current status of theoretical modeling of electric dipole radiation from spinning dust grains. The fundamentally simple problem of dust grain rotation appeals to a rich set of concepts of classical and quantum physics, owing to the diversity of processes involved. Rotational excitation and damping rates through various mechanisms are discussed, as well as methods of computing the grain angular momentum distribution function. Assumptions on grain properties are reviewed. The robustness of theoretical predictions now seems mostly limited by the uncertainties regarding the grains themselves, namely, their abundance, dipole moments, and size and shape distribution.
PASS: Parking-Lot-Assisted Carpool over Vehicular Ad Hoc Networks
Authors: Zhu Jinqi , Feng Yong , Liu Bang
Published: January 2013

Information interaction is a crucial part of modern transportation activities. In this paper, we propose the idea of PASS: a parking-lot-assisted carpool method over vehicular ad hoc networks (VANETs). PASS aims at optimizing transport utilization by the carpooling among car drivers who cover a part of the same traveling route. With wireless device enabled in the vehicle, a user can easily get matched vehicles information and then express his travel demands via radio queries over VANETs to the corresponding driver. The driver can decide whether to provide carpooling services or not. We investigate the main challenges in PASS design, via the parking lot to collect vehicle trajectories, via accelerator sensor to sense vehicle's movement, establish a routing tree to delivery vehicle trajectory information to nearby parking lots, and design a suitable matching scheme to match the target vehicle in VANETs. Finally, simulation results prove that PASS is effective and efficient in carpooling among vehicle drivers.
Malignant Solitary Fibrous Tumor of the Kidney: Report of the First Case Managed with Interferon
Authors: Cuello Javier , Brugés Ricardo
Published: January 2013

Solitary fibrous tumors of the kidney are extremely rare tumors with unpredictable behavior. We describe a case of a patient with a solitary fibrous tumor of kidney with malignant findings with distant metastasis and nephrectomy managed with subcutaneous interferon achieving 23 months of progression-free survival. To date there is no prospective evaluation of any specific modality of treatment, but the surgical management and long-term followup are the only ones so far recommended strategies in the management of these patients. Studies are awaited with more patients to evaluate the different strategies of systemic therapy reported so far to allow adding survival benefit.
Development of a Recombinant Cell-Based Indirect Immunofluorescence Assay for the Determination of Autoantibodies against Soluble Liver Antigen in Autoimmune Hepatitis
Authors: Radzimski Christiane , Probst Christian , Teegen Bianca , Rentzsch Kristin , Blöcker Inga Madeleine , Dähnrich Cornelia , Schlumberger Wolfgang , Stöcker Winfried , Bogdanos Dimitrios P. , Komorowski Lars
Published: January 2013

Autoantibodies against soluble liver antigen (SLA) are specific markers for autoimmune hepatitis (AIH) type 1. In contrast to the determination of other AIH-associated autoantibodies by indirect immunofluorescence assay (IFA), detection of anti-SLA relied up to now on ELISA or immunoblot based on bacterially expressed recombinant protein. In order to develop a complementary IFA substrate, SLA isoform 1 was recombinantly produced in the human cell line HEK293 and controlled by a rabbit hyperimmune serum against SLA. The recombinant cells were used in IFA (RC-IFA) to analyze sera from 20 AIH patients with anti-SLA positivity predetermined by ELISA together with 80 controls (20 anti-SLA negative AIH, 15 primary biliary cirrhosis, 15 HCV, and 30 healthy blood donors). Using RC-IFA, anti-SLA was detected in all ELISA positive AIH sera but in none of the controls. Furthermore, a cytosolic fraction of HEK293 containing SLA was able to neutralize the autoantibodies in all positive sera in a dose-dependent manner. HEK293 cells expressing SLA are a valid substrate for the serodiagnosis of AIH relevant autoantibodies by IFA. In concert with cryosections of primate liver, rat kidney, rat liver, rat stomach, and HEp-2 cells, they enable the parallel determination of all autoantibodies associated with autoimmune liver diseases.
Metabolite Profiling in the Pursuit of Biomarkers for IVF Outcome: The Case for Metabolomics Studies
Authors: McRae C. , Sharma V. , Fisher J.
Published: January 2013

Background. This paper presents the literature on biomarkers ofin vitrofertilisation (IVF) outcome, demonstrating the progression of these studies towards metabolite profiling, specifically metabolomics. The need for more, and improved, metabolomics studies in the field of assisted conception is discussed.Methods. Searches were performed on ISI Web of Knowledge SM for literature associated with biomarkers of oocyte and embryo quality, and biomarkers of IVF outcome in embryo culture medium, follicular fluid (FF), and blood plasma in female mammals.Results. Metabolomics in the field of female reproduction is still in its infancy. Metabolomics investigations of embryo culture medium for embryo selection have been the most common, but only within the last five years. Only in 2012 has the first metabolomics investigation of FF for biomarkers of oocyte quality been reported. The only metabolomics studies of human blood plasma in this context have been aimed at identifying women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS).Conclusions. Metabolomics is becoming more established in the field of assisted conception, but the studies performed so far have been preliminary and not all potential applications have yet been explored. With further improved metabolomics studies, the possibility of identifying a method for predicting IVF outcome may become a reality.
Investing in a Surgical Outcomes Auditing System
Authors: Bermudez Luis , Trost Kristen , Ayala Ruben
Published: January 2013

Background. Humanitarian surgical organizations consider both quantity of patients receiving care and quality of the care provided as a measure of success. However, organizational efficacy is often judged by the percent of resources spent towards direct intervention/surgery, which may discourage investment in an outcomes monitoring system. Operation Smile's established Global Standards of Care mandate minimum patient followup and quality of care. Purpose. To determine whether investment of resources in an outcomes monitoring system is necessary and effectively measures success. Methods. This paper analyzes the quantity and completeness of data collected over the past four years and compares it against changes in personnel and resources assigned to the program. Operation Smile began investing in multiple resources to obtain the missing data necessary to potentially implement a global Surgical Outcomes Auditing System. Existing personnel resources were restructured to focus on postoperative program implementation, data acquisition and compilation, and training materials used to educate local foundation and international employees. Results. An increase in the number of postoperative forms and amount of data being submitted to headquarters occurred. Conclusions. Humanitarian surgical organizations would benefit from investment in a surgical outcomes monitoring system in order to demonstrate success and to ameliorate quality of care.
Interface Study of ITO/ZnO and ITO/SnO2Complex Transparent Conductive Layers and Their Effect on CdTe Solar Cells
Authors: Liu Tingliang , Zhang Xing , Zhang Jingquan , Wang Wenwu , Feng Lianghuan , Wu Lili , Li Wei , Zeng Guanggen , Li Bing
Published: January 2013

Transparent ITO/ZnO and ITO/SnO2complex conductive layers were prepared by DC- and RF-magnetron sputtering. Their structure and optical and electronic performances were studied by XRD, UV/Vis Spectroscopy, and four-probe technology. The interface characteristic and band offset of the ITO/ZnO, ITO/SnO2, and ITO/CdS were investigated by Ultraviolet Photoelectron Spectroscopy (UPS) and X-ray Photoelectron Spectroscopy (XPS), and the energy band diagrams have also been determined. The results show that ITO/ZnO and ITO/SnO2films have good optical and electrical properties. The energy barrier those at the interface of ITO/ZnO and ITO/SnO2layers are almost 0.4 and 0.44 eV, which are lower than in ITO/CdS heterojunctions (0.9 eV), which is beneficial for the transfer and collection of electrons in CdTe solar cells and reduces the minority carrier recombination at the interface, compared to CdS/ITO. The effects of their use in CdTe solar cells were studied by AMPS-1D software simulation using experiment values obtained from ZnO, ITO, and SnO2. From the simulation, we confirmed the increase ofEff, FF,Voc, andIscby the introduction of ITO/ZnO and ITO/SnO2layers in CdTe solar cells.
Relationship between Anthropometric Factors, Gender, and Balance under Unstable Conditions in Young Adults
Authors: Greve Júlia Maria D’Andréa , Cuğ Mutlu , Dülgeroğlu Deniz , Brech Guilherme Carlos , Alonso Angelica Castilho
Published: January 2013

The objective of this study was to evaluate the relationship between the anthropometric factors of height, body mass, body mass index and postural balance and to compare the balance indices between genders in the upright standing position, in healthy adult subjects under conditions of instability. Forty individuals were subjected to functional tests of body stability using the Biodex Balance System, and the resulting indices were correlated with body mass, height, and body mass index, and also compared between genders. Body mass was the main anthropometric factor that influenced variations in postural balance, with a high correlation between groups and with all variables. A linear regression analysis showed that body mass associated with BMI explained 66% of the overall stability, and body mass explained 59% of the anteroposterior stability index and 65% of the mediolateral stability index. In the female group, body mass explained 72% of the overall balance, 66% of the anteroposterior, and 76% of the medio-lateral stability index. Increased body mass requires greater movements to maintain postural balance. Height and BMI presented moderate correlations with balance. Women showed less movement than men on the Biodex Balance System.
Biochemical Systems Theory: A Review
Authors: Voit Eberhard O.
Published: January 2013

Biochemical systems theory (BST) is the foundation for a set of analytical andmodeling tools that facilitate the analysis of dynamic biological systems. This paper depicts major developments in BST up to the current state of the art in 2012. It discusses its rationale, describes the typical strategies and methods of designing, diagnosing, analyzing, and utilizing BST models, and reviews areas of application. The paper is intended as a guide for investigators entering the fascinating field of biological systems analysis and as a resource for practitioners and experts.
Remarks on G-Metric Spaces
Authors: Samet Bessem , Vetro Calogero , Vetro Francesca
Published: January 2013

In 2005, Mustafa and Sims (2006) introduced and studied a new class of generalized metric spaces, which are called G-metric spaces, as a generalization of metric spaces. We establish some useful propositions to show that many fixed point theorems on (nonsymmetric) G-metric spaces given recently by many authors follow directly from well-known theorems on metric spaces. Our technique can be easily extended to other results as shown in application.
Factors Influencing Liana Species Richness and Structure following Anthropogenic Disturbance in a Tropical Forest, Ghana
Authors: Addo-Fordjour Patrick , El Duah Philip , Agbesi David Kafui Kudjo
Published: January 2013

The study was conducted to determine the factors that influenced liana species richness and structure in forests of different disturbance intensities (high, moderate, and low disturbance forests) in the Southern Scarp Forest Reserve, Ghana. Within each forest, lianas (dbh  cm) were enumerated in six  m2 plots located along transects. Soil physicochemical properties and forest structure were determined within the plots. Liana species richness and abundance were significantly lower in the high disturbance forest () whereas basal area was significantly higher in the low disturbance forest (). Tree abundance and dbh significantly predicted liana species richness and structure in the study (). On the basis of the importance value index, three main liana communities, each corresponding with a forest type, were identified. Stepwise multiple regression analysis revealed that exchangeable magnesium and calcium, and total exchangeable bases were the main soil variables that affected liana species richness. Liana structure was influenced by the above-mentioned soil variables as well as exchangeable potassium and sodium, and pH. The present study has demonstrated that changes in liana species richness and structure following human disturbance may be due to variations in soil properties and forest structure.
Anti-Inflammatory Effects of Arsenic Trioxide Eluting Stents in a Porcine Coronary Model
Authors: Shen Li , Gong Feirong , Tian Wenjie , Li Weiming , Zhang Feng , Qian Juying , Sun Aijun , Zou Yunzeng , Yang Wei , Ge Junbo
Published: January 2013

Previous research from our group has demonstrated arsenic trioxide eluting stents significantly reduced neointimal area and thickness compared with bare metal stents. In the present study, the anti-inflammatory effects of arsenic trioxidein vitroand arsenic trioxide eluting stents in a porcine coronary model have been explored. Sixty-five pigs underwent placement of 139 oversized stents in the coronary arteries with histologic analysis, endothelial function analysis, and immunohistochemical and western blot analyses. Arsenic trioxide eluting stents effectively inhibited local inflammatory reactions, while no significant difference in endothelialization and endothelial function between arsenic trioxide eluting stents and bare metal stents was observed. Arsenic trioxide eluting stents favorably modulate neointimal formation due to less augmentation of early inflammatory reactions, and quick endothelialization of the stent surface, which might contribute to long-term safety and efficacy of drug eluting stents.
DS+: Reliable Distributed Snapshot Algorithm for Wireless Sensor Networks
Authors: Uslu Gamze , Serdaroglu Kemal Cagri , Baydere Sebnem
Published: January 2013

Acquiring the snapshot of a distributed system helps gathering system related global state. In wireless sensor networks (WSNs), global state shows if a node is terminated or deadlock occurs along with many other situations which prevents a WSN from fully functioning. In this paper, we present a fully distributed snapshot acquisition algorithm adapted to tree topology wireless sensor networks (WSNs). Since snapshot acquisition is through control messages sent over highly lossy wireless channels and congested nodes, we enhanced the snapshot algorithm with a sink based reliability suit to achieve robustness. We analyzed the performance of the algorithm in terms of snapshot success ratio and response time in simulation and experimental small test bed environment. The results reveal that the proposed tailor made reliability model increases snapshot acquisition performance by a factor of seven and response time by a factor of two in a 30-node network. We have also shown that the proposed algorithm outperforms its counterparts in the specified network setting.
Lubrication Regimes in High-Performance Polymer Spur Gears
Authors: Dearn K. D. , Hoskins T. J. , Andrei L. , Walton D.
Published: January 2013

Little has been published on the behaviour of polymer gears operating under lubricated conditions. An experimental and analytical programme was undertaken to classify the regimes of EHL under which polymer spur gears operate. In doing so theoretical film thicknesses were calculated and then used to classify the regime according to Johnson's Map. The effects of lubrication on the operating efficiencies of high-performance polymer gears were interpreted and from these results coefficients of friction were derived. In addition to this the effect of tooth geometry was investigated and the beneficial influence of high-pressure angle tooth geometry is demonstrated. At loads typically associated with polymer gears the operating regime is shown to be mixed film lubrication. When high-pressure angle gears were tested at high loads the operating regime became full film lubrication and relatively little tooth flank damage occurred.
A Novel Inhibitor of STAT3 Homodimerization Selectively Suppresses STAT3 Activity and Malignant Transformation
Authors: Zhang Xiaolei , Sun Ying , Pireddu Roberta , Yang Hua , Urlam Murali K. , Lawrence Harshani R. , Guida Wayne C. , Lawrence Nicholas J. , Sebti Saïd M.
Published: January 2013

STAT3–STAT3 dimerization, which involves reciprocal binding of the STAT3-SH2 domain to phosphorylated tyrosine-705 (Y-705), is required for STAT3 nuclear translocation, DNA binding, and transcriptional regulation of downstream target genes. Here, we describe a small molecule S3I-1757 capable of disrupting STAT3–STAT3 dimerization, activation, and malignant transforming activity. Fluorescence polarization assay and molecular modeling suggest that S3I-1757 interacts with the phospho-Y-705–binding site in the SH2 domain and displaces fluorescein-labeled GpYLPQTV phosphotyrosine peptide from binding to STAT3. We generated hemagglutinin (HA)-tagged STAT3 and FLAG-tagged STAT3 and showed using coimmunoprecipitation and colocalization studies that S3I-1757 inhibits STAT3 dimerization and STAT3–EGF receptor (EGFR) binding in intact cells. Treatment of human cancer cells with S3I-1757 (but not a closely related analog, S3I-1756, which does not inhibit STAT3 dimerization), inhibits selectively the phosphorylation of STAT3 over AKT1 and ERK1/2 (MAPK3/1), nuclear accumulation of P-Y705-STAT3, STAT3–DNA binding, and transcriptional activation and suppresses the expression levels of STAT3 target genes, such as Bcl-xL (BCL2L1), survivin (BIRC5), cyclin D1 (CCND1), and matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)-9. Furthermore, S3I-1757, but not S3I-1756, inhibits anchorage-dependent and -independent growth, migration, and invasion of human cancer cells, which depend on STAT3. Finally, STAT3-C, a genetically engineered mutant of STAT3 that forms a constitutively dimerized STAT3, rescues cells from the effects of S3I-1757 inhibition. Thus, we have developed S3I-1757 as a STAT3–STAT3 dimerization inhibitor capable of blocking hyperactivated STAT3 and suppressing malignant transformation in human cancer cells that depend on STAT3. Cancer Res; 73(6); 1922–33. ©2012 AACR.
Cyclooxygenase-2 Generates the Endogenous Mutagen trans-4-Hydroxy-2-nonenal in Enterococcus faecalis–Infected Macrophages
Authors: Wang Xingmin , Allen Toby D. , Yang Yonghong , Moore Danny R. , Huycke Mark M.
Published: January 2013

Infection of macrophages by the human intestinal commensal Enterococcus faecalis generates DNA damage and chromosomal instability in mammalian cells through bystander effects. These effects are characterized by clastogenesis and damage to mitotic spindles in target cells and are mediated, in part, by trans-4-hydroxy-2-nonenal (4-HNE). In this study, we investigated the role of COX and lipoxygenase (LOX) in producing this reactive aldehyde using E. faecalis–infected macrophages and interleukin (IL)-10–knockout mice colonized with this commensal. 4-HNE production by E. faecalis–infected macrophages was significantly reduced by COX and LOX inhibitors. The infection of macrophages led to decreased Cox1 and Alox5 expression whereas COX-2 and 4-HNE increased. Silencing Alox5 and Cox1 with gene-specific siRNAs had no effect on 4-HNE production. In contrast, silencing Cox2 significantly decreased 4-HNE production by E. faecalis–infected macrophages. Depleting intracellular glutathione increased 4-HNE production by these cells. Next, to confirm COX-2 as a source for 4-HNE, we assayed the products generated by recombinant human COX-2 and found 4-HNE in a concentration-dependent manner using arachidonic acid as a substrate. Finally, tissue macrophages in colon biopsies from IL-10–knockout mice colonized with E. faecalis were positive for COX-2 by immunohistochemical staining. This was associated with increased staining for 4-HNE protein adducts in surrounding stroma. These data show that E. faecalis, a human intestinal commensal, can trigger macrophages to produce 4-HNE through COX-2. Importantly, it reinforces the concept of COX-2 as a procarcinogenic enzyme capable of damaging DNA in target cells through bystander effects that contribute to colorectal carcinogenesis. Cancer Prev Res; 6(3); 206–16. ©2013 AACR.
Stromal Cell-Derived Factor-1 Enhances Wound Healing through Recruiting Bone Marrow-Derived Mesenchymal Stem Cells to the Wound Area and Promoting Neovascularization
Authors: Xu Xiang , Zhu Fangqiang , Zhang Meng , Zeng Dengfen , Luo Donglin , Liu Guodong , Cui Wenhui , Wang Shali , Guo Wei , Xing Wei , Liang Huaping , Li Lei , Fu Xiaobing , Jiang Jianxin , Huang Hong
Published: January 2013

Stromal cell-derived factor-1 (SDF-1) is a potent chemokine for bone marrow-derived stromal stem cells (BMSCs) that express CXCR4, the receptor for SDF-1. SDF-1 is considered to play an important role in the trafficking of BMSCs. We investigated the contribution of SDF-1 to the recruitment of BMSCs to the wound area and its promotion of wound repair and neovascularization. BMSCs were pretreated with or without anti-CXCR4 blocking antibody and combined with CM-DiI label, and injected via the tail vein into mice with full-thickness skin wounds on the dorsum. Simultaneously, anti-SDF-1 antibody was injected into local wounds in another group of mice. The results show that blockade of CXCR4 on either infused BMSCs or SDF-1 in the host wounds (1) dramatically impaired the number of infused BMSCs being recruited to the injured tissue, (2) reduced the expression of growth factors involved in the repair of injured tissue such as vascular endothelial growth factor, basic fibroblast growth factor and transforming growth factor beta 1, (3) decreased the resultant neovascularization, and (4) retarded wound healing. Taken together, the findings indicate that the SDF-1/CXCR4 signal pathway facilitates wound healing through augmenting BMSC recruitment to wound tissues, responsive secretion of growth factors by BMSCs and neovascularization in the wound area.
Short-Term Folate Supplementation in Physiological Doses Has No Effect on ESR1 and MLH1 Methylation in Colonic Mucosa of Individuals with Adenoma
Authors: Al-Ghnaniem Abbadi Reyad , Emery Peter , Pufulete Maria
Published: January 2013

Background/Aims: Low folate intake may increase risk of colorectal cancer by altering gene-specific methylation in the colon. We determined whether supplementation with physiological doses of folate could alter methylation in the oestrogen receptor 1 (ESR1) and mutL homolog 1 (MLH1) genes in colonic mucosa of subjects with colorectal adenoma. Methods: This was a randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial. Subjects received either 400 µg/day folic acid (n = 15) or placebo (n = 14) for 10 weeks. Blood and colonic tissue samples were collected at baseline and after intervention to determine biomarkers of folate and vitamin B12 status, MTHFR C677T and MS A2756G genotypes, and ESR1 and MLH1 methylation. Results: Although serum and red cell folate increased (p < 0.001 vs. placebo) and plasma homocysteine decreased (p = 0018 vs. placebo) in the folic acid group, there were no significant changes in ESR1 (p = 0.649 vs. placebo) or MLH1 (p = 0.211 vs. placebo) methylation. There was a significant effect of gender on ESR1 methylation (p = 0.004) and significant gender and genotype (MTHFR C677T and MS A2756G) interactions (p = 0.04 and p = 0.014, respectively) that were independent of treatment group allocation. Conclusions: Short-term folate supplementation in physiological doses decreases plasma homocysteine but has no effect on ESR1 and MLH1 methylation in colonic mucosa of individuals with adenoma. Further studies to investigate the interactions between gender, genotype and DNA methylation suggested in this study are warranted.
MicroRNAs Within the Continuum of Postgenomics Biomarker Discovery
Authors: Mayr Manuel , Zampetaki Anna , Willeit Peter , Willeit Johann , Kiechl Stefan
Published: January 2013

The postgenomic shift in paradigm from reductionism to systems-wide network inference has increased recognition that cardiovascular diseases are not simply determined by the genome but arise from an interaction and dynamic dysregulation of gene regulatory networks, proteins, and metabolic alterations. The advent of postgenomic technologies promises to interrogate these complex pathophysiological perturbations by applying concepts of systemic relationships to biomarker discovery. A multibiomarker panel consisting of biomarkers capturing different levels of information (eg, microRNAs to assess endothelial and platelet activation, molecular lipid species to profile metabolic status, and proteolytic degradation products to assess vascular integrity) could outperform inflammatory biomarkers without vascular specificity in their ability of predicting cardiovascular risk. As atherosclerosis develops over decades, different biomarkers may be required for different stages of disease. Thus far, there is no simple blood test to directly assess the health of blood vessels or identify vulnerable patients. We discuss strategies for biomarker discovery using post genomics technologies, with a particular focus on circulating microRNAs. The aim is to reveal distinctive cardiovascular phenotypes and identify biomarker signatures that complement the Framingham risk scores in clinical decision-making and in a stratified medicine approach for early preventive treatment of disease.
Influence of the Amount of Myocardium Subtended by a Stenosis on Fractional Flow Reserve
Authors: Leone Antonio Maria , De Caterina Alberto Ranieri , Basile Eloisa , Gardi Andrea , Laezza Domenico , Mazzari Mario Attilio , Mongiardo Rocco , Kharbanda Rajesh , Cuculi Florim , Porto Italo , Niccoli Giampaolo , Burzotta Francesco , Trani Carlo , Banning Adrian Paul , Rebuzzi Antonio Giuseppe , Crea Filippo
Published: January 2013

Background—

Fractional flow reserve (FFR) specifically relates to the severity of a stenosis to the mass of tissue to be perfused. Accordingly, the larger the territory to be perfused, the greater the flow and the pressure gradient induced by maximal hyperemia. Although this notion may be considered intuitive, its unequivocal demonstration is still lacking. The aim of our study was to evaluate the influence of the amount of myocardium subtended to an intermediate stenosis on FFR, especially in relation to quantitative coronary angiography.

Methods and Results—

The severity of each lesion was assessed by FFR and 2-dimensional quantitative coronary angiography. The amount of jeopardized myocardium was evaluated using 3 validated scores specifically adapted to this aim: the Duke Jeopardy Score (DJS), the Myocardial Jeopardy Index (MJI), and the Alberta Provincial Project for Outcome Assessment in Coronary Heart Disease (APPROACH) Lesion Score (ALS). The presence of a concomitant collateralized chronic total occlusion was also reported. A total of 213 intermediate coronary stenoses in 184 patients were enrolled. FFR values were correlated to minimal lumen diameter (
r
=0.34;
P
<0.0001) and diameter stenosis (
r
=−0.28;
P
<0.0001). FFR was inversely correlated with DJS, MJI, and ALS (
r
=−0.28,
P
<0.0001;
r
=−0.40,
P
<0.0001; and
r
=−0.34,
P
<0.0001). Lesions localized on proximal left anterior descending were related to significantly lower FFR values and to a higher rate of a positive FFR compared with those in distal left anterior descending, left circumflex, and right coronary arteries (0.80±0.09 versus 0.84±0.08 versus 0.88±0.09 versus 0.91±0.04;
P
<0.0001). The presence of a collateralized chronic total occlusion was associated with significantly lower FFR values (0.80±0.07 versus 0.85±0.09;
P
<0.005). At multivariate analysis MJI, minimal lumen diameter, and presence of a collateralized chronic total occlusion were confirmed as significant predictors of FFR.

Conclusions—

A larger amount of perfused myocardium subtended by a stenosis is associated with a higher probability that an angiographically intermediate coronary stenosis is functionally significant.
Pulse Wave Velocity and Cognitive Decline in Elders
Authors: Zeki Al Hazzouri Adina , Newman Anne B. , Simonsick Eleanor , Sink Kaycee M. , Sutton Tyrrell Kim , Watson Nora , Satterfield Suzanne , Harris Tamara , Yaffe Kristine ,   for the Health ABC Study
Published: January 2013

Background and Purpose—

Arterial stiffness is a measure of subclinical cardiovascular disease and increases with age. This study examines the association between arterial stiffness and cognitive decline in a cohort of older adults.

Methods—

A total of 2488 subjects with baseline measure of arterial stiffness (mean age, 74.2 years; 52.3% women) were prospectively followed over 9 years in the Health, Aging, and Body Composition Study. Arterial stiffness was measured as pulse wave velocity (PWV) and analyzed in tertiles. Cognitive function was assessed using the Modified Mini-Mental State examination at baseline and repeated at years 3, 5, 8, and 10. Lower Modified Mini-Mental State examination scores indicate worse function. We fit linear mixed models to examine longitudinal changes in cognitive function over the 9 years of follow-up and logistic regression models, restricted to 1331 participants, to examine cognitive impairment defined as a decrease of ≥5 points after 9 years. We adjusted for sociodemographics, Apoe4, and cardiovascular disease risk factors.

Results—

The annual decrease in Modified Mini-Mental State examination scores was 0.30 points at low PWV (95% confidence interval [CI], −0.37 to −0.22), 0.46 points at middle PWV (95% CI, −0.54 to −0.39), and 0.45 points at high PWV (95% CI, −0.53 to −0.38), from fully adjusted linear mixed models. In fully adjusted models, the odds of cognitive impairment after 9 years of follow-up was 40% greater for subjects with middle PWV (odds ratio [OR], 1.40; 95% CI, 1.03–1.92) and 59% greater for subjects with high PWV (OR, 1.59; 95% CI, 1.16–2.18), compared with low PWV.

Conclusions—

High arterial stiffness was modestly associated with cognitive decline and impairment. Interventions to prevent arterial stiffness may be effective in delaying cognitive decline.
Endovascular Treatment of Intracranial Aneurysms With Flow Diverters
Authors: Brinjikji Waleed , Murad Mohammad H. , Lanzino Giuseppe , Cloft Harry J. , Kallmes David F.
Published: January 2013

Background and Purpose—

Flow diverters are important tools in the treatment of intracranial aneurysms. However, their impact on aneurysmal occlusion rates, morbidity, mortality, and complication rates is not fully examined.

Methods—

We conducted a systematic review of the literature searching multiple databases for reports on the treatment of intracranial aneurysms with flow-diverter devices. Random effects meta-analysis was used to pool outcomes of aneurysmal occlusion rates at 6 months, and procedure-related morbidity, mortality, and complications across studies.

Results—

A total of 29 studies were included in this analysis, including 1451 patients with 1654 aneurysms. Aneurysmal complete occlusion rate was 76% (95% confidence interval [CI], 70%–81%). Procedure-related morbidity and mortality were 5% (95% CI, 4%–7%) and 4% (95% CI, 3%–6%), respectively. The rate of postoperative subarachnoid hemorrhage was 3% (95% CI, 2%–4%). Intraparenchymal hemorrhage rate was 3% (95% CI, 2%–4%). Perforator infarction rate was 3% (95% CI, 1%–5%), with significantly lower odds of perforator infarction among patients with anterior circulation aneurysms compared with those with posterior circulation aneurysms (odds ratio, 0.01; 95% CI, 0.00–0.08;
P
<0.0001). Ischemic stroke rate was 6% (95% CI, 4%–9%), with significantly lower odds of perforator infarction among patients with anterior circulation aneurysms compared with those with posterior circulation aneurysms (odds ratio, 0.15; 95% CI, 0.08–0.27;
P
<0.0001).

Conclusions—

This meta-analysis suggests that treatment of intracranial aneurysms with flow-diverter devices is feasible and effective with high complete occlusion rates. However, the risk of procedure-related morbidity and mortality is not negligible. Patients with posterior circulation aneurysms are at higher risk of ischemic stroke, particularly perforator infarction. These findings should be considered when considering the best therapeutic option for intracranial aneurysms.
The multiple meanings of ancient zoological terms
Authors: Dubois Alain
Published: January 2013

Many terms currently in use in the scientific language derive from classical Greek or Latin words. Some are employed with the same spelling, such as hypophysis (Greek) or species (Latin), some slightly or largely modified. The identity or resemblance between the classical term and the modern one may give the impression that they are the "same" term and that they have the same meaning, but this is very often misleading. Etymology is not identity. Very often, not to say almost always, the term "borrowed" from a language that was in use 2000 (or more) years ago experienced a modification in its sense, which may have transported it quite far away from the original connotation or even meaning of the word. This is well shown by the present work by Liliane Bodson. A member of the Belgian Royal Academy, she is a specialist of ancient Greek and Roman views on zoology and the relationships between humans and animals, with a particular emphasis on herpetology (amphibians and reptiles) and the works of Aristotle.