bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Surface tension in situ in flooded alveolus unaltered by albumin
Authors: Kharge Angana Banerjee , Wu You , Perlman Carrie E.
Published: June 2014

In the acute respiratory distress syndrome, plasma proteins in alveolar edema liquid are thought to inactivate lung surfactant and raise surface tension, T. However, plasma protein-surfactant interaction has been assessed only in vitro, during unphysiologically large surface area compression (%Δ A). Here, we investigate whether plasma proteins raise T in situ in the isolated rat lung under physiologic conditions. We flood alveoli with liquid that omits/includes plasma proteins. We ventilate the lung between transpulmonary pressures of 5 and 15 cmH2O to apply a near-maximal physiologic %Δ A, comparable to that of severe mechanical ventilation, or between 1 and 30 cmH2O, to apply a supraphysiologic %Δ A. We pause ventilation for 20 min and determine T at the meniscus that is present at the flooded alveolar mouth. We determine alveolar air pressure at the trachea, alveolar liquid phase pressure by servo-nulling pressure measurement, and meniscus radius by confocal microscopy, and we calculate T according to the Laplace relation. Over 60 ventilation cycles, application of maximal physiologic %Δ A to alveoli flooded with 4.6% albumin solution does not alter T; supraphysiologic %Δ A raise T, transiently, by 51 ± 4%. In separate experiments, we find that addition of exogenous surfactant to the alveolar liquid can, with two cycles of maximal physiologic %Δ A, reduce T by 29 ± 11% despite the presence of albumin. We interpret that supraphysiologic %Δ A likely collapses the interfacial surfactant monolayer, allowing albumin to raise T. With maximal physiologic %Δ A, the monolayer likely remains intact such that albumin, blocked from the interface, cannot interfere with native or exogenous surfactant activity.
Transition of target-location signaling in activity of macaque lateral intraparietal neurons during delayed-response visual search
Authors: Nishida Satoshi , Tanaka Tomohiro , Ogawa Tadashi
Published: June 2014

Neurons in the lateral intraparietal area (LIP) are involved in signaling the location of behaviorally relevant objects during visual discrimination and working memory maintenance. Although previous studies have examined these cognitive processes separately, they often appear as inseparable sequential processes in real-life situations. Little is known about how the neural representation of the target location is altered when both cognitive processes are continuously required for executing a task. We investigated this issue by recording single-unit activity from LIP of monkeys performing a delayed-response visual search task in which they were required to discriminate the target from distractors in the stimulus period, remember the location at which the extinguished target had been presented in the delay period, and make a saccade to that location in the response period. Target-location signaling was assessed using response modulations contingent on whether the target location was inside or opposite the receptive field. Although the population-averaged response modulation was consistent and changed only slightly during a trial, the across-neuron pattern of response modulations showed a marked and abrupt change around 170 ms after stimulus offset due to concurrent changes in the response modulations of a subset of LIP neurons, which manifested heterogeneous patterns of activity changes during the task. Our findings suggest that target-location signaling by the across-neuron pattern of LIP activity discretely changes after the stimulus disappearance under conditions that continuously require visual discrimination and working memory to perform a single behavioral task.
Can the period of postnatal codevelopment of the rubrospinal and corticospinal systems provide new insights into refinement of limb movement?
Authors: Bertucco Matteo , Dayanidhi Sudarshan
Published: June 2014

The corticospinal and the rubrospinal tracts are thought to synergistically contribute to the limb control during motor development. Williams et al. ( J Neurosci 34: 4432–4441, 2014) demonstrate that the postnatal maturation of red nucleus motor map and the rubrospinal tract develops earlier than the corticospinal tract, to support early forelimb control. They have two distinct phases of maturation; a “precorticospinal” phase characterized by development of the rubrospinal system, and a “cocorticospinal” phase where they overlap with corticospinal development.
A Complex Integrable Hierarchy and Its Hamiltonian Structure for Integrable Couplings of WKI Soliton Hierarchy
Authors: Yu Fajun , Feng Shuo , Zhao Yanyu
Published: June 2014

We generate complex integrable couplings from zero curvature equations associated with matrix spectral problems in this paper. A direct application to the WKI spectral problem leads to a novel soliton equation hierarchy of integrable coupling system; then we consider the Hamiltonian structure of the integrable coupling system. We select theU¯,V¯and generate the nonlinear composite parts, which generate new extended WKI integrable couplings. It is also indicated that the method of block matrix is an efficient and straightforward way to construct the integrable coupling system.
Congenital Intralabyrinthine Cholesteatoma
Authors: Prasad Sanjay , Prasad Kiran , Azadarmaki Roya
Published: June 2014

A patient with a congenital intralabyrinthine cholesteatoma is presented. High-resolution computerized tomographic scans and intraoperative photomicrographs display features of intralabyrinthine extension. We discuss pathogenetic theories for the development of congenital intralabyrinthine cholesteatoma. The distinction of this condition from congenital cholesteatoma with labyrinthine erosion is discussed.
Low-Profile Folded-Coupling Planar Inverted-F Antenna for 2.4/5 GHz WLAN Communications
Authors: Li Hung-Yu , Lin Chun-Cheng , Lin Tsai-Ku , Huang Chih-Yu
Published: June 2014

A dual-band folded-coupling planar inverted-F antenna (FC-PIFA) is presented in this paper. By using the folded-coupling technique, the proposed antenna provides two distinct impedance bandwidths of 159 MHz (about 6.5% centered at 2.45 GHz) and 1512 MHz (about 27.5% centered at 5.5 GHz), which cover the required bandwidths for the 2.4/5 GHz wireless local area network (WLAN) communications. Moreover, the antenna shows a low profile of 5 mm and a small length of 20.5 mm in radiating area, making it easy to be installed in the casing of wireless handheld devices and laptops. Details of the design procedures and experimental results are discussed.
High-Intensity Focused Ultrasound Treatment for Advanced Pancreatic Cancer
Authors: Zhou Yufeng
Published: June 2014

Pancreatic cancer is under high mortality but has few effective treatment modalities. High-intensity focused ultrasound (HIFU) is becoming an emerging approach of noninvasively ablating solid tumor in clinics. A variety of solid tumors have been tried on thousands of patients in the last fifteen years with great success. The principle, mechanism, and clinical outcome of HIFU were introduced first. All 3022 clinical cases of HIFU treatment for the advanced pancreatic cancer alone or in combination with chemotherapy or radiotherapy in 241 published papers were reviewed and summarized for its efficacy, pain relief, clinical benefit rate, survival, Karnofsky performance scale (KPS) score, changes in tumor size, occurrence of echogenicity, serum level, diagnostic assessment of outcome, and associated complications. Immune response induced by HIFU ablation may become an effective way of cancer treatment. Comments for a better outcome and current challenges of HIFU technology are also covered.
Satellite Attitude Control System Design considering the Fuel Slosh Dynamics
Authors: de Souza Luiz Carlos Gadelha , de Souza Alain G.
Published: June 2014

The design of the satellite attitude control system (ACS) becomes more complex when the satellite structure has different type of components like, flexible solar panels, antennas, mechanical manipulators, and tanks with fuel. A crucial interaction can occur between the fuel slosh motion and the satellite rigid motion during translational and/or rotational manoeuvre since these interactions can change the satellite centre of mass position damaging the ACS pointing accuracy. Although, a well-designed controller can suppress such disturbances quickly, the controller error pointing may be limited by the minimum time necessary to suppress such disturbances thus affecting the satellite attitude acquisition. As a result, the design of the satellite controller needs to explore the limits between the conflicting requirements of performance and robustness. This paper investigates the effects of the interaction between the liquid motion (slosh) and the satellite dynamics in order to predict what the damage to the controller performance and robustness is. The fuel slosh dynamics is modelled by a pendulum which parameters are identified using the Kalman filter technique. This information is used to design the satellite controller by the linear quadratic regulator (LQR) and linear quadratic Gaussian (LQG) methods to perform a planar manoeuvre assuming thrusters are actuators.
Preliminary Evaluation of Probiotic Properties ofLactobacillusStrains Isolated from Sardinian Dairy Products
Authors: Pisano Maria Barbara , Viale Silvia , Conti Stefania , Fadda Maria Elisabetta , Deplano Maura , Melis Maria Paola , Deiana Monica , Cosentino Sofia
Published: June 2014

Twenty-threeLactobacillusstrains of dairy origin were evaluated for some functional properties relevant to their use as probiotics. A preliminary subtractive screening based on the abilities to inhibit the growth of microbial pathogens and hydrolyze conjugated bile salts was applied, and six strains were selected for further characterization including survival under gastrointestinal environmental conditions, adhesion to gut epithelial tissue, enzymatic activity, and some safety properties. All selected strains maintained elevated cell numbers under conditions simulating passage through the human gastrointestinal tract, well comparable to the values obtained for the probiotic strainLactobacillus rhamnosusGG, and were able to adhere to Caco-2 cells to various extents (from 3 to 20%). All strains exhibited high aminopeptidase, and absent or very low proteolytic and strongβ-galactosidase activities; none was found to be haemolytic or to produce biogenic amines and all were susceptible to tetracycline, chloramphenicol, erythromycin, ampicillin, and amoxicillin/clavulanic acid. Our results indicate that theLactobacillusstrains analyzed could be considered appropriate probiotic candidates, due to resistance to GIT simulated conditions, antimicrobial activity, adhesion to Caco-2 cell-line, and absence of undesirable properties. They could be used as adjunct cultures for contributing to the quality and health related functional properties of dairy products.
Role of Lysosomes in Silica-Induced Inflammasome Activation and Inflammation in Absence of MARCO
Authors: Biswas Rupa , Hamilton Raymond F. , Holian Andrij
Published: June 2014

MARCO is the predominant scavenger receptor for recognition and binding of silica particles by alveolar macrophages (AM). Previously, it was shown that mice null for MARCO have a greater inflammatory response to silica, but the mechanism was not described. The aim of this study was to determine the relationship between MARCO and NLRP3 inflammasome activity. Silica increased NLRP3 inflammasome activation and release of the proinflammatory cytokine, IL-1β, to a greater extent in MARCO−/−AM compared to wild type (WT) AM. Furthermore, in MARCO−/−AM there was greater cathepsin B release from phagolysosomes, Caspase-1 activation, and acid sphingomyelinase activity compared to WT AM, supporting the critical role played by lysosomal membrane permeabilization (LMP) in triggering silica-induced inflammation. The difference in sensitivity to LMP appears to be in cholesterol recycling since increasing cholesterol in AM by treatment with U18666A decreased silica-induced NLRP3 inflammasome activation, and cells lacking MARCO were less able to sequester cholesterol following silica treatment. Taken together, these results demonstrate that MARCO contributes to normal cholesterol uptake in macrophages; therefore, in the absence of MARCO, macrophages are more susceptible to a greater inflammatory response by particulates known to cause NLRP3 inflammasome activation and the effect is due to increased LMP.
Differential Response of Oyster Shell Powder on Enzyme Profile and Nutritional Value of Oyster MushroomPleurotus floridaPF05
Authors: Naraian Ram , Narayan Om Prakash , Srivastava Jatin
Published: June 2014

Oyster mushroomPleurotus floridawas cultivated on different combinations of wheat straw (WS) as basal substrate and oyster shell powder (OSP) supplement. The OSP supplementation considerably responded to different cultivation phases. The mycelium grew fast and showed rapid growth rate (8.91 mmd−1) in WS + OSP (97 + 3) combination while WS + OSP (92 + 8) showed maximum laccase (3.133 U/g) and Mn peroxidase (MnP) activities (0.091 U/g). The climax level of laccase (5.433 U/g) and MnP (0.097 U/g) was recorded during fruit body initiation in WS + OSP (97 + 3) and WS + OSP (98 + 2) combinations, respectively. The WS + OSP (97 + 3) combination represented the best condition for mushroom cultivation and produced the highest biological efficiency (147%). In addition, protein and lipid contents in fruit bodies were slightly improved in response to OSP. The carbohydrate was significantly increased by raising concentration of OSP. The highest values of protein, carbohydrate, and lipid noted were 31.3 μg/g, 0.0639 (g/g), and 0.373 (g/g) correspondingly. Conclusively it was evident that lower concentrations of OSP acted positively and relatively to higher concentrations and improved nutritional content which may suitably be used to enhance both yield and nutritional values of mushroom.
Effect of Various Acaricides on Hatchability of Eggs ofRhipicephalus (Boophilus) microplus
Authors: Haque M. , Jyoti  , Singh N. K. , Rath S. S.
Published: June 2014

The effect of commonly used acaricides (amitraz, cypermethrin, deltamethrin, fenvalerate, and flumethrin) on the eggs ofRhipicephalus (Boophilus) micropluscollected from Ludhiana, Punjab, was evaluated by egg hatch assay (EHA). The regression graph of probit hatchability and per cent inhibition of hatching (IH%) of eggs was plotted against log values of concentration of various acaricides. All concentrations of flumethrin and amitraz caused complete inhibition of hatching, whereas a hatchability of31.0±6.1,40.0±5.2and19.3±1.7% was only recorded at the highest concentration of cypermethrin, deltamethrin, and fenvalerate, respectively. An increase in the concentration of the acaricide showed a significant effect on the IH% of eggs for cypermethrinP<0.01and deltamethrinP<0.05but was nonsignificant for fenvalerate. The slope of the regression curve of IH% was utilized for the calculation of the dose of various acaricides causing inhibition of hatching for 95% eggs (LC95) and the discriminating dose (DD). Results indicated that maximum DD was recorded for fenvalerate (2.136%), followed by cypermethrin (0.214%) and deltamethrin (0.118%). The results of the current study will be helpful in formulating effective control strategies against ticks.
Electrical Stimulation at the ST36 Acupoint Protects against Sepsis Lethality and Reduces Serum TNF Levels through Vagus Nerve‐ and Catecholamine‐Dependent Mechanisms
Authors: Villegas-Bastida Albino , Torres-Rosas Rafael , Arriaga-Pizano Lourdes Andrea , Flores-Estrada Javier , Gustavo-Acosta Altamirano , Moreno-Eutimio Mario Adan
Published: June 2014

Electrical vagus nerve (VN) stimulation during sepsis attenuates tumor necrosis factor (TNF) production through the cholinergic anti‐inflammatory pathway, which depends on the integrity of the VN and catecholamine production. To characterize the effect of electroacupuncture at ST36 (EA‐ST36) on serum TNF, IL‐6, nitrite, and HMGB1 levels and survival rates, based on VN integrity and catecholamine production, a sepsis model was induced in rats using cecal ligation and puncture (CLP). The septic rats were subsequently treated with EA‐ST36 (CLP+ST36), and serum samples were collected and analyzed for cytokines levels. The serum TNF, IL‐6, nitrite, and HMGB1 levels in the CLP+ST36 group were significantly lower compared with the group without treatment, the survival rates were significantly higher (P < 0.05), and the acute organ injury induced by CLP was mitigated by EA‐ST36; however, when subdiaphragmatic vagotomy was performed, the serum levels of TNF in the CLP+ST36 group did not show a significant difference compared with the group without electrostimulation, and, similarly, no significant difference in serum TNF levels was found under the pharmacological blockade of catecholamines. These results suggest that in rats with CLP sepsis models EA‐ST36 reduces serum TNF levels through VN‐ and atecholamine‐dependent mechanisms.
Effects of the Offset Term in Experimental Simulation on Afterglow Decay Curve
Authors: Tsai Chi-Yang , Lin Jeng-Wen , Huang Yih-Ping , Huang Yung-Chieh
Published: June 2014

This study examines the effect of the offset term in a multiple single exponential equation that fits into experimental afterglow decay curve data for material applications. For afterglow materials applied and attached to structures, the inclusion of this offset term may reduce the values of the calculated decay times,τi, and enlarge the time invariant constants,Ai, in the associated equation compared to theoretically perfect test conditions. Using a set of experimental data obtained from a lab under dim light, adjustments can be made to calculate the required parameters for an equation without the offset term. This study uses mathematical simulations and lab tests to support our thesis and crosslink test results generated from different ambient light conditions. This paper defines the offset ratio as the ratio of the offset value,I0, versus the initial light intensity in an equation. This ratio can be used to evaluate possible effects on the calculated parameters of an equation in an associated numerical simulation. The most reliable parameters will have consistent results from the use of multiple single exponential equations, with and without the offset term, in simulations to obtain them in an equation to model a set of data.
The Effect ofHelicobacter pyloriEradication on the Levels of Essential Trace Elements
Authors: Wu Meng-Chieh , Huang Chun-Yi , Kuo Fu-Chen , Hsu Wen-Hung , Wang Sophie S. W. , Shih Hsiang-Yao , Liu Chung-Jung , Chen Yen-Hsu , Wu Deng-Chyang , Huang Yeou-Lih , Lu Chien-Yu
Published: June 2014

Objective. This study was designed to compare the effect ofHelicobacter pylori(H. pylori) infection treatment on serum zinc, copper, and selenium levels.Patients and Methods. We measured the serum zinc, copper, and selenium levels inH. pylori-positive andH. pylori-negative patients. We also evaluated the serum levels of these trace elements afterH. pylorieradication. These serum copper, zinc, and selenium levels were determined by inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry.Results. Sixty-threeH. pylori-positive patients and thirtyH. pylori-negative patients were studied. Serum copper, zinc, and selenium levels had no significant difference betweenH. pylori-positive andH. pylori-negative groups. There were 49 patients with successfulH. pylorieradication. The serum selenium levels were lower after successfulH. pylorieradication, but not significantly (P=0.06). There were 14 patients with failedH. pylorieradication. In this failed group, the serum selenium level afterH. pylorieradication therapy was significantly lower than that beforeH. pylorieradication therapy (P<0.05). The serum zinc and copper levels had no significant difference between before and afterH. pylorieradication therapies.Conclusion.H pylorieradication regimen appears to influence the serum selenium concentration (IRB number: KMUH-IRB-20120327).
25-Hydroxyvitamin D, IL-31, and IL-33 in Children with Allergic Disease of the Airways
Authors: Bonanno Anna , Gangemi Sebastiano , La Grutta Stefania , Malizia Velia , Riccobono Loredana , Colombo Paolo , Cibella Fabio , Profita Mirella
Published: June 2014

Low vitamin D is involved in allergic asthma and rhinitis. IL-31 and IL-33 correlate with Th2-associated cytokines in allergic disease. We investigated whether low vitamin D is linked with circulating IL-31 and IL-33 in children with allergic disease of the airways. 25-Hydroxyvitamin D [25(OH) Vit D], IL-31, and IL-33 plasma levels were measured in 28 controls (HC), 11 allergic rhinitis (AR) patients, and 35 allergic asthma with rhinitis (AAR) patients. We found significant lower levels of 25(OH) Vit D in AR and in AAR than in HC. IL-31 and IL-33 plasma levels significantly increased in AAR than HC. IL-31 and IL-33 positively correlated in AR and AAR. 25(OH) Vit D deficient AAR had higher levels of blood eosinophils, exacerbations, disease duration, and total IgE than patients with insufficient or sufficient 25(OH) Vit D. In AAR 25(OH) Vit D levels inversely correlated with total allergen sIgE score and total atopy index. IL-31 and IL-33 did not correlate with 25(OH) Vit D in AR and AAR. In conclusion, low levels of 25(OH) Vit D might represent a risk factor for the development of concomitant asthma and rhinitis in children with allergic disease of the airways independently of IL-31/IL-33 Th2 activity.
Severe Hypocalcemia due to Denosumab in Metastatic Prostate Cancer
Authors: Muqeet Adnan Mohammed , Bhutta Usman , Iqbal Tanzeel , AbdulMujeeb Sufyan , Haragsim Lukas , Amer Syed
Published: June 2014

Denosumab is a monoclonal antibody used for prevention of skeletal-related events (SREs) in patients with bone metastases from solid tumors. Hypocalcemia is a rare and dangerous side effect of the drug Denosumab. We present a case of a patient with metastatic prostate cancer who developed severe hypocalcemia after the administration of the drug. The patient’s vitamin D levels were low when checked after administration of the drug, which likely predisposed him to the development of hypocalcemia. He was placed on high doses of oral and intravenous (IV) calcium and vitamin D without any appreciable response in the serum calcium level. His ionized calcium remained below 0.71 mmol/L despite very high doses of oral and IV calcium supplements. During the hospital course, he developed hydronephrosis from the spread of a tumor and did not want to undergo percutaneous nephrostomy tube placement; therefore, it was decided to dialyse him for acute renal failure and to correct his hypocalcemia. Checking calcium and vitamin D levels prior to the administration of Denosumab is vital in preventing hypocalcemia. If hypocalcemia is severe and not responsive to high doses of vitamin D, oral and IV calcium, then hemodialysis with a high calcium bath can correct this electrolyte abnormality.
The Research on Operation of Obstructed Total Anomalous Pulmonary Venous Connection in Neonates
Authors: Jinghao Zheng , Botao Gao , Zhiwei Xu , Jinfeng Liu
Published: June 2014

Objectives. Total anomalous pulmonary venous connection (TAPVC) is a rare congenital heart disease. This study aimed to evaluate the outcomes of TAPVC repair in neonates, controlling for anatomic subtypes and surgical techniques.Methods. Between 1997 and 2013, 88 patients (median age: 16 days) underwent repair for supracardiac (31), cardiac (18), infracardiac (36), or mixed (3) TAPVC. All the patients underwent emergency operation due to obstructed drainage. Supracardiac and infracardiac TAPVC repair included a side-to-side anastomosis between the pulmonary venous confluence and left atrium. Coronary sinus unroofing was preferred for cardiac TAPVC repair.Results. The early mortality rate was 2.3% (2/88 patients). The echocardiogram showed no obstruction in the pulmonary vein anastomosis, and flow rate was 1.1–1.42 m/s in the 3-year follow-up period.Conclusions. The accurate preoperative diagnosis, improved protection of heart function, use of pulmonary vein tissue to anastomose and avoid damage of the pulmonary vein, and delayed sternum closure can reduce the risk of mortality. The preoperative severity of pulmonary vein obstruction, the timing of the emergency operation, and infracardiac or mixed-type TAPVC can affect prognosis. Using our surgical technique, the TAPVC mortality among our patients was gradually reduced with remarkable results. However, careful monitoring of the patient with pulmonary vein restenosis and the timing and method of reoperation should also be given importance.
Refinements of Aczél-Type Inequality and Their Applications
Authors: Tian Jingfeng , Wang Wen-Li
Published: June 2014

We present some new sharpened versions of Aczél-type inequality. Moreover, as applications, some refinements of integral type of Aczél-type inequality are given.
Genetic Vaccination against Experimental Infection with Myotropic Parasite Strains ofTrypanosoma cruzi
Authors: Araújo Adriano Fernando , de Oliveira Gabriel , Vasconcelos Juliana Fraga , Ersching Jonatan , Dominguez Mariana Ribeiro , Vasconcelos José Ronnie , Machado Alexandre Vieira , Gazzinelli Ricardo Tostes , Bruna-Romero Oscar , Soares Milena Botelho , Rodrigues Mauricio Martins
Published: June 2014

In earlier studies, we reported that a heterologous prime-boost regimen using recombinant plasmid DNA followed by replication-defective adenovirus vector, both containingTrypanosoma cruzigenes encodingtrans-sialidase (TS) and amastigote surface protein (ASP) 2, provided protective immunity against experimental infection with a reticulotropic strain of this human protozoan parasite. Herein, we tested the outcome of genetic vaccination of F1 (CB10XBALB/c) mice challenged with myotropic parasite strains (Brazil and Colombian). Initially, we determined that the coadministration during priming of a DNA plasmid containing the murine IL-12 gene improved the immune response and was essential for protective immunity elicited by the heterologous prime-boost regimen in susceptible male mice against acute lethal infections with these parasites. The prophylactic or therapeutic vaccination of resistant female mice led to a drastic reduction in the number of inflammatory infiltrates in cardiac and skeletal muscles during the chronic phase of infection with either strain. Analysis of the electrocardiographic parameters showed that prophylactic vaccination reduced the frequencies of sinus arrhythmia and atrioventricular block. Our results confirmed that prophylactic vaccination using the TS and ASP-2 genes benefits the host against acute and chronic pathologies caused byT. cruziand should be further evaluated for the development of a veterinary or human vaccine against Chagas disease.
Unsupervised Texture Segmentation Using Active Contour Model and Oscillating Information
Authors: Wang Guodong , Pan Zhenkuan , Dong Qian , Zhao Ximei , Zhang Zhimei , Duan Jinming
Published: June 2014

Textures often occur in real-world images and may cause considerable difficulties in image segmentation. In order to segment texture images, we propose a new segmentation model that combines image decomposition model and active contour model. The former model is capable of decomposing structural and oscillating components separately from texture image, and the latter model can be used to provide smooth segmentation contour. In detail, we just replace the data term of piecewise constant/smooth approximation in CCV (convex Chan-Vese) model with that of image decomposition model-VO (Vese-Osher). Therefore, our proposed model can estimate both structural and oscillating components of texture images as well as segment textures simultaneously. In addition, we design fast Split-Bregman algorithm for our proposed model. Finally, the performance of our method is demonstrated by segmenting some synthetic and real texture images.
Targeting TLR2 for Vaccine Development
Authors: Basto Afonso P. , Leitão Alexandre
Published: June 2014

Novel and more effective immunization strategies against many animal diseases may profit from the current knowledge on the modulation of specific immunity through stimulation of innate immune receptors. Toll-like receptor (TLR)2-targeting formulations, such as synthetic lipopeptides and antigens expressed in fusion with lipoproteins, have been shown to have built-in adjuvant properties and to be effective at inducing cellular and humoral immune mechanisms in different animal species. However, contradictory data has arisen concerning the profile of the immune response elicited. The benefits of targeting TLR2 for vaccine development are thus still debatable and more studies are needed to rationally explore its characteristics. Here, we resume the main features of TLR2 and TLR2-induced immune responses, focusing on what has been reported for veterinary animals.
Element Geochemical Analysis of the Contribution of Aeolian Sand to Suspended Sediment in Desert Stream Flash Floods
Authors: Jia Xiaopeng , Wang Haibing
Published: June 2014

The interaction of wind and water in semiarid and arid areas usually leads to low-frequency flash flood events in desert rivers, which have adverse effects on river systems and ecology. In arid zones, many aeolian dune-fields terminate in stream channels and deliver aeolian sand to the channels. Although aeolian processes are common to many desert rivers, whether the aeolian processes contribute to fluvial sediment loss is still unknown. Here, we identified the aeolian-fluvial cycling process responsible for the high rate of suspended sediment transport in the Sudalaer desert stream in the Ordos plateau of China. On the basis of element geochemistry data analysis, we found that aeolian sand was similar to suspended sediment in element composition, which suggests that aeolian sand contributes to suspended sediment in flash floods. Scatter plots of some elements further confirm that aeolian sand is the major source of the suspended sediment. Factor analysis and the relation between some elements and suspended sediment concentration prove that the greater the aeolian process, the higher the suspended sediment concentration and the greater the contribution of aeolian sand to suspended sediment yield. We conclude that aeolian sand is the greatest contributor to flash floods in the Sudalaer desert stream.
Cardiomyopathy in Offspring of Pregestational Diabetic Mouse Pregnancy
Authors: Dowling Daniel , Corrigan Niamh , Horgan Stephen , Watson Chris J. , Baugh John , Downey Paul , McAuliffe Fionnuala M.
Published: June 2014

Purpose. To investigate cardiomyopathy in offspring in a mouse model of pregestational type 1 diabetic pregnancy.Methods. Pregestational diabetes was induced with STZ administration in female C57BL6/J mice that were subsequently mated with healthy C57BL6/J males. Offspring were sacrificed at embryonic day 18.5 and 6-week adolescent and 12-week adult stages. The size and number of cardiomyocyte nuclei and also the extent of collagen deposition within the hearts of diabetic and control offspring were assessed following cardiac tissue staining with either haematoxylin and eosin or Picrosirius red and subsequently quantified using automated digital image analysis.Results. Offspring from diabetic mice at embryonic day 18.5 had a significantly higher number of cardiomyocyte nuclei present compared to controls. These nuclei were also significantly smaller than controls. Collagen deposition was shown to be significantly increased in the hearts of diabetic offspring at the same age. No significant differences were found between the groups at 6 and 12 weeks.Conclusions. Our results from offspring of type 1 diabetic mice show increased myocardial collagen deposition in late gestation and have increased myocardial nuclear counts (hyperplasia) as opposed to increased myocardial nuclear size (hypertrophy) in late gestation. These changes normalize postpartum after removal from the maternal intrauterine environment.
Tri-Integrable Couplings of the Giachetti-Johnson Soliton Hierarchy as well as Their Hamiltonian Structure
Authors: Wang Lei , Tang Ya-Ning
Published: June 2014

Based on zero curvature equations from semidirect sums of Lie algebras, we construct tri-integrable couplings of the Giachetti-Johnson (GJ) hierarchy of soliton equations and establish Hamiltonian structures of the resulting tri-integrable couplings by the variational identity.
A Novel Missense Mutation in Oncostatin M Receptor Beta Causing Primary Localized Cutaneous Amyloidosis
Authors: Saeedi Marjan , Ebrahim-Habibi Azadeh , Haghighi Alireza , Zarrabi Fariba , Amoli Mahsa M. , Robati Reza M.
Published: June 2014

Primary localized cutaneous amyloidosis (PLCA) is a chronic skin disorder, caused by amyloid material deposition in the upper dermis. Autosomal dominant PLCA has been mapped earlier to pathogenic missense mutations in theOSMRgene, which encodes the oncostatin M receptor ß subunit (OSMRß). OSMRß is interleukin-6 family cytokine receptors and possesses two ligands, oncostatin M and interleukin-31, which both have biologic roles in inflammation and keratinocyte cell proliferation, differentiation, and apoptosis. Here, we identified a newOSMRmutation in a Kurdish family for the first time. Blood samples were taken from all the affected individuals in the family. DNA extraction was performed using salting out technique. Primers were designed for intron flanking individual exons ofOSMRgene which were subjected to direct sequencing after PCR amplification for each sample. Sequencing showed a C/T substitution at position 613 in the proband. This mutation results in an L613S (leucine 613 to serine) amino acid change. The identified mutation was observed in all affected family members but not in 100 ethnically matched healthy controls. Elucidating the molecular basis of familial PLCA provides new insight into mechanisms of itch in human skin and may lead to new therapeutic targets for pruritus.
Global Exponential Robust Stability of High-Order Hopfield Neural Networks with S-Type Distributed Time Delays
Authors: Zheng Haiyong , Wu Bin , Wei Tengda , Wang Linshan , Wang Yangfan
Published: June 2014

By employing differential inequality technique and Lyapunov functional method, some criteria of global exponential robust stability for the high-order neural networks with S-type distributed time delays are established, which are easy to be verified with a wider adaptive scope.
Primary Atypical Carcinoid Tumour of the Sphenoid Sinus Rostrum
Authors: Stephenson Kate A. , Lubbe Darlene E.
Published: June 2014

Primary carcinoid tumors of the nasal cavity and sinuses are exceedingly rare. An accurate histopathological diagnosis is crucial to optimal investigation and management. We present a case of a primary atypical carcinoid tumor arising from the sphenoid rostrum without evidence of associated carcinoid syndrome. This rare but important differential diagnosis of a nasal tumor is discussed and important unique management issues are highlighted.
Spontaneous Resolution of Subretinal Hemorrhage Secondary to Choroidal Osteoma Unassociated with Choroidal Neovascularization
Authors: Koylu Mehmet Talay , Gokce Gokcen , Uysal Yusuf , Durukan Ali Hakan
Published: June 2014

Choroidal osteoma is a rare benign intraocular tumor composed of calcification throughout the choroid. Various treatment modalities are available according to location of the tumor and the cause of the visual distortion. We report herein a 30-year-old male who was referred to our hospital with acute blurred vision as a result of the subretinal hemorrhage from choroidal osteoma. We ruled out the presence of CNV and observation was preferred and we prevented unnecessary treatment attempts as spontaneous recovery is the easiest and safest way.
Optimal Control of HIV/AIDS in the Workplace in the Presence of Careless Individuals
Authors: Seidu Baba , Makinde Oluwole D.
Published: June 2014

A nonlinear dynamical system is proposed and qualitatively analyzed to study the dynamics of HIV/AIDS in the workplace. The disease-free equilibrium point of the model is shown to be locally asymptotically stable if the basic reproductive number,R0, is less than unity and the model is shown to exhibit a unique endemic equilibrium when the basic reproductive number is greater than unity. It is shown that, in the absence of recruitment of infectives, the disease is eradicated whenR0<1, whiles the disease is shown to persist in the presence of recruitment of infected persons. The basic model is extended to include control efforts aimed at reducing infection, irresponsibility, and nonproductivity at the workplace. This leads to an optimal control problem which is qualitatively analyzed using Pontryagin’s Maximum Principle (PMP). Numerical simulation of the resulting optimal control problem is carried out to gain quantitative insights into the implications of the model. The simulation reveals that a multifaceted approach to the fight against the disease is more effective than single control strategies.
Cluster Synchronization of Stochastic Complex Networks with Markovian Switching and Time-Varying Delay via Impulsive Pinning Control
Authors: Zhou Xuan , Luo Kui
Published: June 2014

This paper studies the cluster synchronization of a kind of complex networks by means of impulsive pinning control scheme. These networks are subject to stochastic noise perturbations and Markovian switching, as well as internal and outer time-varying delays. Using the Lyapunov-Krasovskii functional, Itö’s formula, and some linear matrix inequalities (LMI), several novel sufficient conditions are obtained to guarantee the desired cluster synchronization. At the end of this writing, a numerical simulation is given to demonstrate the effectiveness of those theoretical results.
Influence of Acquired and Genetic Risk Factors on the Prevention, Management, and Treatment of Thromboembolic Disease
Authors: Kreidy Raghid
Published: June 2014

Prevention, management, and treatment of venous thromboembolism requires understanding of the epidemiology and associated risk factors, particularly in recognizing populations warranting prophylaxis, in evaluating patients with high risk situations, and in determining the duration of anticoagulation required to minimize recurrent thrombosis and to avoid postthrombotic syndrome. The present paper reviews recent advances concerning acquired and genetic risk factors for venous thrombosis, analyses individual risks related to age, and focuses on thrombotic genetic risk factors and the synergistic gene-environment and gene-gene interactions and their importance in the management and treatment of venous thromboembolic disease.
Effects of a Meal on the Hemorheologic Responses to Exercise in Young Males
Authors: Bilski Jan , Teległów Aneta , Pokorski Janusz , Nitecki Jacek , Pokorska Joanna , Nitecka Ewa , Marchewka Anna , Dąbrowski Zbigniew , Marchewka Jakub
Published: June 2014

Aim. This study investigates the changes in hemorheologic parameters resulting from exercise followed by a standard meal.Methods. In twelve moderately active men a period of exercise on a bicycle ergometer for 30 min at 60%VO2maxwas followed by a test meal or by 30 min rest. Venous blood was sampled for further analysis at baseline, after exercise, and after the meal/rest period.Results. The elongation index (EI) was reduced and a marked rise in plasma viscosity was observed after exercise. A significant decrease in half time of total aggregation (T1/2) and a rise in aggregation index (AI) after exercise were observed; however, after the postexercise period these changes were reversed.Conclusion. The present study demonstrates that physical exercise causes several changes in blood rheology parameters, such as an increase of blood viscosity, a decrease in EI and an increase in AI, and a fall in theT1/2values. The meal eaten in the postexercise period caused a further reduction in EI values indicating higher red cell rigidity, but not in plasma viscosity or aggregations indices. Such alterations in hemorheologic parameters should not impair the function of the cardiovascular system in fit and healthy people but it could constitute a serious risk under various pathophysiological conditions.
Value of Histopathologic Examination of Uterine Products after First-Trimester Miscarriage
Authors: Alsibiani Sharifa Ali
Published: June 2014

The main rationale of routine histopathologic examination of products after first-trimester miscarriages is to detect an ectopic pregnancy or a molar pregnancy, which require further management. An alternative approach is to examine the products only when there is a definite indication. As there is no agreement, we aimed to study whether routine histopathological examination of tissues obtained after first-trimester miscarriage is of any clinical value in our populations. Medical records of all (558) patients with a diagnosis of first-trimester miscarriage over 4 years (2007–2010) at King Abdulaziz University Hospital, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, were reviewed. Histopathologic examination confirmed products of conception in 537 (96.2%) patients, no products of conception in 17 (3%) patients, molar pregnancy in 2 (0.4%) patients, and decidual tissues without chorionic villi (Arias-Stella reaction) in 2 (0.4%) patients. After clinical correlation, only one unsuspected partial molar pregnancy was diagnosed by histopathology examination. Conclusion is that it does not appear reasonable to perform histopathological examination routinely after all first-trimester miscarriages in our studied population. We recommend that histopathological examination be performed in select instances: when the diagnosis is uncertain, when fewer tissues have been obtained during surgery, when unexpected pathology was seen, when ultrasound suggests a molar pregnancy, or when patients are considered at high risk for trophoblastic disease.
Expanding Prevertebral Soft Tissue Swelling Subsequent to a Motor Vehicle Collision
Authors: Ryan Matthew F. , Meurer David , Tyndall J. Adrian
Published: June 2014

Cervical acceleration/deceleration or whiplash injuries are a common cause of cervical spine trauma. Cervical acceleration/deceleration can result in vertebral fractures, subluxations, and ligamentous and other soft tissue injuries. Severe injuries are often evidenced by increased prevertebral swelling on lateral X-ray. Assessment of the prevertebral space on lateral cervical spine films is an essential component for identifying potential traumatic neck injuries. We describe a case in which an 84-year-old man on coumadin presented to the emergency department after a low-impact motor vehicle crash. The patient initially complained of neck and shoulder pain which subsequently progressed to hoarseness, dysphagia, and dyspnea. Imaging studies revealed significant prevertebral tissue swelling with anterior compression of his airway that required airway stabilization via awake fiber-optic intubation and reversal of his anticoagulation therapy.
Astronomical Signatures of Dark Matter
Authors: Gorenstein Paul , Tucker Wallace
Published: June 2014

Several independent astronomical observations in different wavelength bands reveal the existence of much larger quantities of matter than what we would deduce from assuming a solar mass to light ratio. They are very high velocities of individual galaxies within clusters of galaxies, higher than expected rotation rates of stars in the outer regions of galaxies, 21 cm line studies indicative of increasing mass to light ratios with radius in the halos of spiral galaxies, hot gaseous X-ray emitting halos around many elliptical galaxies, and clusters of galaxies requiring a much larger component of unseen mass for the hot gas to be bound. The level of gravitational attraction needed for the spatial distribution of galaxies to evolve from the small perturbations implied by the very slightly anisotropic cosmic microwave background radiation to its current web-like configuration requires much more mass than is observed across the entire electromagnetic spectrum. Distorted shapes of galaxies and other features created by gravitational lensing in the images of many astronomical objects require an amount of dark matter consistent with other estimates. The unambiguous detection of dark matter and more recently evidence for dark energy has positioned astronomy at the frontier of fundamental physics as it was in the 17th century.
Local Fractional Variational Iteration Method for Inhomogeneous Helmholtz Equation within Local Fractional Derivative Operator
Authors: Wang Xian-Jin , Zhao Yang , Cattani Carlo , Yang Xiao-Jun
Published: June 2014

The inhomogeneous Helmholtz equation within the local fractional derivative operator conditions is investigated in this paper. The local fractional variational iteration method is applied to obtain the nondifferentiable solutions and the graphs of the illustrative examples are also shown.
Ablative Therapies for Colorectal Polyps and Malignancy
Authors: Oxenberg Jacqueline , Hochwald Steven N. , Nurkin Steven
Published: June 2014

Endoscopic techniques are gaining popularity in the management of colorectal polyps and occasionally superficial cancers. While their use is in many times palliative, they have proven to be curative in carefully selected patients with polyps or malignancies, with less morbidity than radical resection. However, one should note that data supporting local and ablative therapies for colorectal cancer is scarce and may be subject to publication bias. Therefore, for curative intent, these techniques should only be considered in highly select cases as higher rates of local recurrences have also been reported. The aim of this review is to explain the different modalities of local and ablative therapies specific to colorectal neoplasia and explain the indications and circumstances where they have been most successful.
Does Lipoic Acid Consumption Affect the Cytokine Profile in Multiple Sclerosis Patients: A Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled, Randomized Clinical Trial
Authors: Khalili Mohammad , Azimi Amirreza , Izadi Vajihe , Eghtesadi Shahryar , Mirshafiey Abbas , Sahraian Mohamad Ali , Motevalian Abbas , Norouzi Abbas , Sanoobar Meisam , Eskandari Ghazaleh , Farhoudi Mehdi , Amani Firouz
Published: June 2014

Background: A limited amount of data exists regarding the effect of lipoic acid (LA), an oral antioxidant supplement, on cytokine profiles among multiple sclerosis (MS) patients. Objective: We aimed to assess the effect of daily consumption of LA on the cytokine profiles in MS patients. Methods: In this double-blind, placebo-controlled, randomized clinical trial, 52 relapsing-remitting MS patients with an age range of 18-50 years were recruited into 2 groups: LA consumption (1,200 mg/day) or placebo. Patients followed their prescribed supplements for 12 weeks. Fasting blood samples for cytokine profile measurement were collected at baseline and after the intervention. Anthropometric parameters were measured based on the standard guidelines. Results: INF-γ, ICAM-1, TGF-β and IL-4 were significantly reduced in the LA group compared to the placebo group [(INF-γ: 0.82 ± 0.2 vs. 0.2 ± 0.2 pg/ml, p < 0.0001), (ICAM-1: 20.2 ± 9.4 vs. 8 ± 10 ng/ml, p = 0.0001), (TGF-β: 103.1 ± 20.2 vs. 54.9 ± 26 ng/ml, p < 0.0001) and (IL-4: 0.1 ± 0.1 vs. 1.02 ± 1.7 ng/ml, p = 0.0112)]. No significant changes in TNF-α, IL-6, EDSS and MMP-9 were found between the LA and placebo groups (p = 0.6, p = 0.8, p = 0.09 and p = 0.8, respectively). Conclusion: The results suggested that consumption of 1,200 mg LA per day beneficially affects several inflammatory cytokines including INF-γ, ICAM-1 TGF-β and IL-4. Further investigations are needed to verify the beneficial role of LA on other cytokine profiles among MS patients.