bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Parallel processing streams for motor output and sensory prediction during action preparation
Authors: Stenner Max-Philipp , Bauer Markus , Heinze Hans-Jochen , Haggard Patrick , Dolan Raymond J.
Published: December 2014

Sensory consequences of one's own actions are perceived as less intense than identical, externally generated stimuli. This is generally taken as evidence for sensory prediction of action consequences. Accordingly, recent theoretical models explain this attenuation by an anticipatory modulation of sensory processing prior to stimulus onset (Roussel et al. 2013) or even action execution (Brown et al. 2013). Experimentally, prestimulus changes that occur in anticipation of self-generated sensations are difficult to disentangle from more general effects of stimulus expectation, attention and task load (performing an action). Here, we show that an established manipulation of subjective agency over a stimulus leads to a predictive modulation in sensory cortex that is independent of these factors. We recorded magnetoencephalography while subjects performed a simple action with either hand and judged the loudness of a tone caused by the action. Effector selection was manipulated by subliminal motor priming. Compatible priming is known to enhance a subjective experience of agency over a consequent stimulus (Chambon and Haggard 2012). In line with this effect on subjective agency, we found stronger sensory attenuation when the action that caused the tone was compatibly primed. This perceptual effect was reflected in a transient phase-locked signal in auditory cortex before stimulus onset and motor execution. Interestingly, this sensory signal emerged at a time when the hemispheric lateralization of motor signals in M1 indicated ongoing effector selection. Our findings confirm theoretical predictions of a sensory modulation prior to self-generated sensations and support the idea that a sensory prediction is generated in parallel to motor output (Walsh and Haggard 2010), before an efference copy becomes available.
Functional territories in primate substantia nigra pars reticulata separately signaling stable and flexible values
Authors: Yasuda Masaharu , Hikosaka Okihide
Published: December 2014

Gaze is strongly attracted to visual objects that have been associated with rewards. Key to this function is a basal ganglia circuit originating from the caudate nucleus (CD), mediated by the substantia nigra pars reticulata (SNr), and aiming at the superior colliculus (SC). Notably, subregions of CD encode values of visual objects differently: stably by CD tail [CD(T)] vs. flexibly by CD head [CD(H)]. Are the stable and flexible value signals processed separately throughout the CD-SNr-SC circuit? To answer this question, we identified SNr neurons by their inputs from CD and outputs to SC and examined their sensitivity to object values. The direct input from CD was identified by SNr neuron's inhibitory response to electrical stimulation of CD. We found that SNr neurons were separated into two groups: 1) neurons inhibited by CD(T) stimulation, located in the caudal-dorsal-lateral SNr (cdlSNr), and 2) neurons inhibited by CD(H) stimulation, located in the rostral-ventral-medial SNr (rvmSNr). Most of CD(T)-recipient SNr neurons encoded stable values, whereas CD(H)-recipient SNr neurons tended to encode flexible values. The output to SC was identified by SNr neuron's antidromic response to SC stimulation. Among the antidromically activated neurons, many encoded only stable values, while some encoded only flexible values. These results suggest that CD(T)-cdlSNr-SC circuit and CD(H)-rvmSNr-SC circuit transmit stable and flexible value signals, largely separately, to SC. The speed of signal transmission was faster through CD(T)-cdlSNr-SC circuit than through CD(H)-rvmSNr-SC circuit, which may reflect automatic and controlled gaze orienting guided by these circuits.
Functional properties of GABA synaptic inputs onto GABA neurons in monkey prefrontal cortex
Authors: Rotaru Diana C. , Olezene Cameron , Miyamae Takeaki , Povysheva Nadezhda V. , Zaitsev Aleksey V. , Lewis David A. , Gonzalez-Burgos Guillermo
Published: December 2014

In rodent cortex GABAA receptor (GABAAR)-mediated synapses are a significant source of input onto GABA neurons, and the properties of these inputs vary among GABA neuron subtypes that differ in molecular markers and firing patterns. Some features of cortical interneurons are different between rodents and primates, but it is not known whether inhibition of GABA neurons is prominent in the primate cortex and, if so, whether these inputs show heterogeneity across GABA neuron subtypes. We thus studied GABAAR-mediated miniature synaptic events in GABAergic interneurons in layer 3 of monkey dorsolateral prefrontal cortex (DLPFC). Interneurons were identified on the basis of their firing pattern as fast spiking (FS), regular spiking (RS), burst spiking (BS), or irregular spiking (IS). Miniature synaptic events were common in all of the recorded interneurons, and the frequency of these events was highest in FS neurons. The amplitude and kinetics of miniature inhibitory postsynaptic potentials (mIPSPs) also differed between DLPFC interneuron subtypes in a manner correlated with their input resistance and membrane time constant. FS neurons had the fastest mIPSP decay times and the strongest effects of the GABAAR modulator zolpidem, suggesting that the distinctive properties of inhibitory synaptic inputs onto FS cells are in part conferred by GABAARs containing α1 subunits. Moreover, mIPSCs differed between FS and RS interneurons in a manner consistent with the mIPSP findings. These results show that in the monkey DLPFC GABAAR-mediated synaptic inputs are prominent in layer 3 interneurons and may differentially regulate the activity of different interneuron subtypes.
Molecular Aspects of Structure, Gating, and Physiology of pH-Sensitive Background K2Pand Kir K+-Transport Channels
Authors: Sepúlveda Francisco V. , Pablo Cid L. , Teulon Jacques , Niemeyer María Isabel
Published: December 2014

K+channels fulfill roles spanning from the control of excitability to the regulation of transepithelial transport. Here we review two groups of K+channels, pH-regulated K2Pchannels and the transport group of Kir channels. After considering advances in the molecular aspects of their gating based on structural and functional studies, we examine their participation in certain chosen physiological and pathophysiological scenarios. Crystal structures of K2Pand Kir channels reveal rather unique features with important consequences for the gating mechanisms. Important tasks of these channels are discussed in kidney physiology and disease, K+homeostasis in the brain by Kir channel-equipped glia, and central functions in the hearing mechanism in the inner ear and in acid secretion by parietal cells in the stomach. K2Pchannels fulfill a crucial part in central chemoreception probably by virtue of their pH sensitivity and are central to adrenal secretion of aldosterone. Finally, some unorthodox behaviors of the selectivity filters of K2Pchannels might explain their normal and pathological functions. Although a great deal has been learned about structure, molecular details of gating, and physiological functions of K2Pand Kir K+-transport channels, this has been only scratching at the surface. More molecular and animal studies are clearly needed to deepen our knowledge.
Biochemical and Physiological Studies on the Effects of Senescence Leaves ofPopulus deltoidesonTriticum vulgare
Authors: Khaket Tejinder Pal , Kumar Viney , Singh Jasbir , Dhanda Suman
Published: December 2014

Triticum vulgare(Wheat) based products are the major dietary source of food in developing countries. In India, it grows in association with boundary plantations ofPopulus deltoids(poplar). During winter, poplar enters in dormancy which cause a heavy leaf fall at the time of wheat seed germination. Large number of poplar senescence leaves may adversely affect the wheat. Therefore, the present study was performed to examine the effect of senescence poplar leaves on wheat germ and some other biochemical parameters. Seed’s germination rate was determined by measuring root and shoot lengths, percent germination, germination index, and inhibition percentage. Biochemical parameters, namely, pigment, carbohydrate, protein, and phenol content, were estimated. Activities of catalase and polyphenol oxidase which are stress marker enzymes were also measured. Results revealed that germination and other biochemical parameters of wheat were severely affected by senescence poplar leaves even at very low concentration. So, intercropping of poplar along with wheat may be chosen carefully as wheat is the major dietary staple.
A New Mathematical Model for Flank Wear Prediction Using Functional Data Analysis Methodology
Authors: Jozić Sonja , Lela Branimir , Bajić Dražen
Published: December 2014

This paper presents a new approach improving the reliability of flank wear prediction during the end milling process. In the present work, prediction of flank wear has been achieved by using cutting parameters and force signals as the sensitive carriers of information about the machining process. A series of experiments were conducted to establish the relationship between flank wear and cutting force components as well as the cutting parameters such as cutting speed, feed per tooth, and radial depth of cut. In order to be able to predict flank wear a new linear regression mathematical model has been developed by utilizing functional data analysis methodology. Regression coefficients of the model are in the form of time dependent functions that have been determined through the use of functional data analysis methodology. The mathematical model has been developed by means of applied cutting parameters and measured cutting forces components during the end milling of workpiece made of 42CrMo4 steel. The efficiency and flexibility of the developed model have been verified by comparing it with the separate experimental data set.
Effects of Additives and Sintering Time on the Microstructure of Ni-Zn Ferrite and Its Electrical and Magnetic Properties
Authors: Hajalilou Abdollah , Hashim Mansor , Mohamed Kamari Halimah
Published: December 2014

This work aims to investigate the relationship between the microstructure of Ni-Zn ferrite and its electrical and magnetic properties in the presence and absence of as small amounts as 0.12% of 0.4CaO + 0.8SiO2over different sintering times. The X-ray diffraction pattern showed a single spinel phase formation in all the samples. The results indicate that grain growth occurred by increasing sintering time from 15 to 270 min in the two types of samples prepared in this study although it was greatly impeded by the additive oxides. Moreover, the oxides increase the resistivity of the ferrite and decrease its zinc loss. Magnetic properties such as induction magnetization (BS) and saturation magnetization (MS) decreased in the presence of the additives while its coercivity (HC) increased. Finally, the density of the samples was observed to increase with increasing sintering time in both types of the samples but with a higher value in the samples with no additives.
Study of a Biparametric Family of Iterative Methods
Authors: Campos B. , Cordero A. , Magreñán Á. A. , Torregrosa J. R. , Vindel P.
Published: December 2014

The dynamics of a biparametric family for solving nonlinear equations is studied on quadratic polynomials. This biparametric family includes thec-iterative methods and the well-known Chebyshev-Halley family. We find the analytical expressions for the fixed and critical points by solving 6-degree polynomials. We use the free critical points to get the parameter planes and, by observing them, we specify some values of(α, c)with clear stable and unstable behaviors.
Randomized Controlled Trials on Complementary and Traditional Medicine in the Korean Literature
Authors: Kim Chang-Kyu , Kim Da-Hee , Lee Myeong Soo , Kim Jong-In , Wieland L. Susan , Shin Byung-Cheul
Published: December 2014

Objective. This study aimed to identify all of the features of complementary and alternative (CAM) randomized controlled trials (RCTs) in the Korean literature and then introduce English‐speaking researchers to the bibliometric and risk of bias characteristics of this literature. Methods. Eleven electronic databases and sixteen Korean journals were searched to August 2013 for RCTs of CAM therapies. Key study characteristics were extracted and risk of bias was assessed using the Cochrane Collaboration’s tool for assessing risk of bias. Results. Three hundred and sixty publications met our inclusion criteria. Complementary and traditional medicine RCTs in the Korean literature emerged in the mid‐1990s and increased in the mid‐2000s. The most common CAM interventions include acupuncture (59.4%) and herbal medicine (8.3%). The largest proportion of trials evaluated CAM for musculoskeletal conditions (20.7%). Adequate methods of randomization were reported in 41.7% of the RCTs, whereas only 8.3% reported adequate allocation concealment. A low proportion of trials reported participant blinding (34.2%) and outcome assessor blinding (22.5%). Conclusions. Korean CAM RCTs are typically omitted from systematic reviews resulting in the potential for language bias. This study will enable these trials of diverse quality to be identified and assessed for inclusion in future systematic reviews on CAM interventions.
Fragment Reattachment after Atypical Crown Fracture in Maxillary Central Incisor
Authors: Vaz Vanessa Torraca Peraro , Presoto Cristina Dupim , Jordão Keren Cristina Fagundes , Paleari André Gustavo , Dantas Andrea Abi-Rached , Segalla José Claudio Martins , Oliveira Junior Osmir Batista de
Published: December 2014

Background. Fracture by trauma is one of the most common types of dental injury in the permanent dentition among children and teenagers.Aim. The aim of this study was to report the treatment performed to an atypical dental trauma case in a maxillary central incisor of a young patient by means of reattachment of the tooth fragment.Case Description. A 12-year-old male patient suffered a vertical crown fracture to the maxillary right central incisor. After clinical and radiographic examinations, a conservative restorative treatment which consisted in the reattachment of the tooth fragment with flow resin was performed in order to preserve the dental element and to obtain maximum aesthetics.Conclusion. The reattachment of fractured fragment is a fast and easy technique that can be used successfully as an option to restore dental element which suffered trauma.Clinical Significance. This technique restores the aesthetics and function of the dental element with minimal discomfort to the patient.
Preparation of Electrochemical Biosensor for Detection of Organophosphorus Pesticides
Authors: Gothwal Ashish , Beniwal Puneet , Dhull Vikas , Hooda Vikas
Published: December 2014

Polyvinyl chloride (PVC) can be used to develop reaction beaker which acts as electrochemical cell for the measurement of OP pesticides. Being chemically inert, corrosion resistant, and easy in molding to various shapes and size, PVC can be used for the immobilization of enzyme. Organophosphorus hydrolase was immobilized covalently onto the chemically activated inner surface of PVC beaker by using glutaraldehyde as a coupling agent. The carbon nanotubes paste working electrode was constructed for amperometric measurement at a potential of +0.8 V. The biosensor showed optimum response at pH 8.0 with incubation temperature of 40°C.KmandImaxfor substrate (methyl parathion) were 322.58 µM and 1.1 µA, respectively. Evaluation study showed a correlation of 0.985, which was in agreement with the standard method. The OPH biosensor lost 50% of its initial activity after its regular use for 25 times over a period of 50 days when stored in 0.1 M sodium phosphate buffer, pH 8.0 at 4°C. No interference was observed by interfering species.
Analysis of Repairable Geo/G/1 Queues with Negative Customers
Authors: Lee Doo Ho , Kim Kilhwan
Published: December 2014

We consider discrete-time Geo/G/1 queues with negative customers and a repairable server. The server is subject to failure due to a negative customer arrival. As soon as a negative customer arrives at a system, the server fails and one positive (ordinary) customer is forced to leave. At a failure instant, the server is turned off and the repair process immediately begins. We construct the mathematical model and present the probability generating functions of the system size distribution and the FCFS sojourn time distribution. Finally, some numerical examples are given to show the influence of negative customer arrival on the performance measures of the system.
On Finite-Time Feedback Control for Switched Discrete-Time Systems under Fast and Slow Switching
Authors: Xiao Liaoliang , Yu Mingyang
Published: December 2014

The problem of finite-time stabilization for switched discrete-time systems under both fast and slow switching is addressed. In the fast switching case, the designed static state feedback controller combines controllers for each subsystem and resetting controller at switching instant, it is shown that the resetting controller can reduce the conservativeness on controller design. Then the results are extended to output feedback controller design. Under slow switching, both static state feedback and output feedback controller are designed with admissible average dwell time, respectively. Several numerical examples are given to illustrate the proposed results within this paper.
Primary Hepatic Lymphoma in a Patient with Rheumatoid Arthritis Treated with Methotrexate
Authors: Tatsumi Goichi , Ukyo Naoya , Hirata Hirokazu , Tsudo Mitsuru
Published: December 2014

Primary hepatic lymphoma (PHL) has rarely been reported in patients with immunosuppression. We herein describe a case of Epstein-Barr virus- (EBV-) positive PHL in a 67-year-old Japanese woman receiving methotrexate (MTX) treatment for rheumatoid arthritis (RA). The patient, who had been receiving MTX therapy for more than 6 years, presented with low-grade fever and abdominal pain. Initial laboratory tests showed mildly elevated liver enzymes with normal levels of alpha-fetoprotein and carcinoembryonic antigen, and computed tomography scans revealed multiple hepatic tumors with no lymph-node swelling. Examination of liver specimens obtained via ultrasonography-guided needle biopsy indicated EBV-positive diffuse large B cell lymphoma; therefore, she was diagnosed with PHL. MTX was discontinued, and she was carefully monitored thereafter owing to the prolonged history of MTX administration for RA. Rapid progression of PHL was observed; therefore 10 days after the PHL diagnosis, she received 6 cycles of R-THP-COP (rituximab, cyclophosphamide, pirarubicin, vincristine, and prednisolone) therapy and achieved complete remission for more than 1 year. Although MTX-associated lymphoproliferative disorders often show remission after withdrawal of MTX, early diagnosis and treatment are essential for PHL in patients with RA treated with MTX, because of the aggressive nature of the disease.
Successful Endovascular Treatment of Iatrogenic Thyrocervical Trunk Pseudoaneurysm with Concomitant Arteriovenous Fistula Using 0.010-Inch Detachable Microcoils
Authors: Hamamoto Kohei , Nakano Mitsunori , Omoto Kiyoka , Tsubuku Masahiko , Chiba Emiko , Okochi Tomohisa , Matsuura Katsuhiko , Tanaka Osamu
Published: December 2014

Pseudoaneurysms (PsA) and arteriovenous fistulae (AVF) of the thyrocervical trunk and its branches are rare complications of traumatic or iatrogenic arterial injuries. Most such injuries are iatrogenic and are associated with central venous catheterization. Historically, thyrocervical trunk PsA and AVF have been managed with open surgical repair; however, multiple treatment modalities are now available, including ultrasound-guided compression repair, ultrasound-guided thrombin injection, and endovascular repair with covered stent placement. We report a case of a 65-year-old woman with an iatrogenic thyrocervical trunk PsA with concomitant AVF that developed after attempted internal jugular vein cannulation for hemodialysis access. The PsA was successfully treated by transcatheter coil embolization using 0.010-inch detachable microcoils. Our case is the first published instance of a thyrocervical trunk PsA with concomitant AVF that was successfully treated by endovascular procedure.
Single Nucleotide Polymorphisms in MicroRNA Binding Sites: Implications in Colorectal Cancer
Authors: Bhaumik Panchalee , Gopalakrishnan Chandrasekhar , Kamaraj Balu , Purohit Rituraj
Published: December 2014

Cancer is a complex genetic disorder, characterised by uncontrolled cell proliferation and caused by altered expression of oncogenes and tumour suppressor genes. When cell proliferation pertains to colon, it is called colorectal cancer. Most of colorectal cancer causing genes are potential targets for the miRNA (microRNA) that bind to 3′UTR (untranslated regions) of mRNA and inhibit translation. Mutations occurring in miRNA binding regions can alter the miRNA, mRNA combination, and can alter gene expression drastically. We hypothesized that 3′UTR mutation in miRNA binding site could alter the miRNA, mRNA interaction, thereby altering gene expression. Altered gene expression activity could promote tumorigenesis in colon. Therefore, we formulated a systematic in silico procedure that integrates data from various databases, followed rigorous selection criteria, and identified mutations that might alter the expression levels of cancer causing genes. Further we performed expression analysis to shed light on the potential tissues that might be affected by mutation, enrichment analysis to find the metabolic functions of the gene, and network analysis to highlight the important interactions of cancer causing genes with other genes to provide insight that complex network will be disturbed upon mutation. We provide in silico evidence for the effect of these mutations in colorectal cancer.
A Natural Image Pointillism with Controlled Ellipse Dots
Authors: Chi Dongxiang
Published: December 2014

This paper presents an image-based artistic rendering algorithm for the automatic Pointillism style. At first, ellipse dot locations are randomly generated based on a source image; then dot orientations are precalculated with help of a direction map; a saliency map of the source image decides long and short radius of the ellipse dot. At last, the rendering runs layer-by-layer from large size dots to small size dots so as to reserve the detailed parts of the image. Although only ellipse dot shape is adopted, the final Pointillism style performs well because of variable characteristics of the dot.
On Some Bounds and Exact Formulae for Connective Eccentric Indices of Graphs under Some Graph Operations
Authors: De Nilanjan , Pal Anita , Nayeem Sk. Md. Abu
Published: December 2014

The connective eccentric index of a graph is a topological index involving degrees and eccentricities of vertices of the graph. In this paper, we have studied the connective eccentric index for double graph and double cover. Also we give the connective eccentric index for some graph operations such as joins, symmetric difference, disjunction, and splice of graphs.
Ultrawideband Noise Radar Imaging of Impenetrable Cylindrical Objects Using Diffraction Tomography
Authors: Shin Hee Jung , Narayanan Ram M. , Rangaswamy Muralidhar
Published: December 2014

Ultrawideband (UWB) waveforms achieve excellent spatial resolution for better characterization of targets in tomographic imaging applications compared to narrowband waveforms. In this paper, two-dimensional tomographic images of multiple scattering objects are successfully obtained using the diffraction tomography approach by transmitting multiple independent and identically distributed (iid) UWB random noise waveforms. The feasibility of using a random noise waveform for tomography is investigated by formulating a white Gaussian noise (WGN) model using spectral estimation. The analytical formulation of object image formation using random noise waveforms is established based on the backward scattering, and several numerical diffraction tomography simulations are performed in the spatial frequency domain to validate the analytical results by reconstructing the tomographic images of scattering objects. The final image of the object based on multiple transmitted noise waveforms is reconstructed by averaging individually formed images which compares very well with the image created using the traditional Gaussian pulse. Pixel difference-based measure is used to analyze and estimate the image quality of the final reconstructed tomographic image under various signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) conditions. Also, preliminary experiment setup and measurement results are presented to assess the validation of simulation results.
Experimental Evaluation of Novel Master‐Slave Configurations for Position Control under Random Network Delay and Variable Load for Teleoperation
Authors: Kuzu Ahmet , Bogosyan Seta , Gokasan Metin , Sabanovic Asif
Published: December 2014

This paper proposes two novel master‐slave configurations that provide improvements in both control and communication aspects of teleoperation systems to achieve an overall improved performance in position control. The proposed novel master‐slave configurations integrate modular control and communication approaches, consisting of a delay regulator to address problems related to variable network delay common to such systems, and a model tracking control that runs on the slave side for the compensation of uncertainties and model mismatch on the slave side. One of the configurations uses a sliding mode observer and the other one uses a modified Smith predictor scheme on the master side to ensure position transparency between the master and slave, while reference tracking of the slave is ensured by a proportional‐differentiator type controller in both configurations. Experiments conducted for the networked position control of a single‐link arm under system uncertainties and randomly varying network delays demonstrate significant performance improvements with both configurations over the past literature.
The Effect of Monetary Policy on Commodity Prices: Disentangling the Evidence for Individual Prices
Authors: Cabrales Carolina Arteaga , Granados Castro Joan Camilo , Ojeda Joya Jair
Published: December 2014

We study the effect of monetary policy shocks on commodity prices. While most of the literature has found that expansionary shocks have a positive effect on aggregate price indices, we study the effect on individual prices of a sample of four commodities. This set of commodity prices is essential to understand the dynamics of the balance of payments in Colombia. The analysis is based on structural VAR models; we identify monetary policy shocks following Kim (1999, 2003) upon quarterly data for commodity prices and their fundamentals for the period from 1980q1 to 2010q3. Our results show that commodity prices overshoot their long run equilibrium in response to a contractionary shock in the US monetary policy and, in contrast with literature, the response of the individual prices considered is stronger than what has been found in aggregate indices. Additionally, it is found that the monetary policy explains a substantial share of the fluctuations in prices.
Delayed Migration of Embolized Coil with Large Renal Stone Formation: A Rare Presentation
Authors: Kumar Santosh , Jayant Kumar , Singh Shrawan K. , Parmar Kalpesh M. , Devana Sudheer K. , Choudhari Gautam R. , Mittal Ankur
Published: December 2014

Delayed bleeding following percutaneous nephrolithotomy (PCNL) usually occurs due to development of the pseudoaneurysm which can be successfully managed with coil embolization. However very few cases of such complications have been reported in the literature. Here we are reporting a case of delayed post-PCNL bleeding that occurred in a 53-year-old diabetic patient operated on for renal stone. Computed tomography scan revealed a presence of the pseudoaneurysm in the segmental branch of right renal artery, which was successfully managed with coiling. Patient remained asymptomatic for the next 9 years after which he again presented with similar complaints. X-ray KUB was done which revealed a 2.7 cms renal pelvic calculus with the migrated coil in its center and a left upper ureteric calculus. His routine haemogram, coagulogram, serum electrolytes, and liver function tests, renal function tests, vitamin D3, and PTH (parathyroid hormone) were within normal limits. He underwent left laparoscopic ureterolithotomy and right percutaneous nephrolithotomy (PCNL). Intraoperatively the migrated stainless steel embolization coil was seen engulfed all around by the multiple stones in the right renal pelvis. Postoperative period was uneventful. Later he was followed in the outpatient department and was doing well. To conclude, this is the only case report of development of a large calculus around a migrated embolization coil which was successfully managed with PCNL. PCNL offers better stone clearance in cases of stones being formed over foreign bodies like fragmented double J stents, fragmented nephrostomies, or migrated embolization coil.
VIE-FG-FFT for Analyzing EM Scattering from Inhomogeneous Nonmagnetic Dielectric Objects
Authors: Chen Shu-Wen , Zhou Hou-Xing , Hong Wei , Xie Jia-Ye
Published: December 2014

A new realization of the volume integral equation (VIE) in combination with the fast Fourier transform (FFT) is established by fitting Green’s function (FG) onto the nodes of a uniform Cartesian grid for analyzing EM scattering from inhomogeneous nonmagnetic dielectric objects. The accuracy of the proposed method is the same as that of the P-FFT and higher than that of the AIM and the IE-FFT especially when increasing the grid spacing size. Besides, the preprocessing time of the proposed method is obviously less than that of the P-FFT for inhomogeneous nonmagnetic dielectric objects. Numerical examples are provided to demonstrate the accuracy and efficiency of the proposed method.
Da‐Bu‐Yin‐Wan and Qian‐Zheng‐San to Neuroprotect the Mouse Model of Parkinson’s Disease
Authors: Gong Xiao-Gang , Sun Hong-Mei , Zhang Yi , Zhang Shu-Jing , Gao Yu-Shan , Feng Jing , Hu Jing-Hong , Gai Cong , Guo Zhen-Yu , Xu Hong , Ma Ling
Published: December 2014

Da‐Bu‐Yin‐Wan (DBYW) and Qian‐Zheng‐San (QZS), two classic traditional Chinese medicinal formulas, were clinically employed to treat Parkinson’s disease (PD). Our previous studies demonstrated neuroprotective effects of them on mitochondrial function in PD mice induced by 1-methyl-4-phenyl-1,2,3,6-tetrahydropyridine (MPTP). The purpose of this research was to investigate their possible mechanisms in the light of mitochondrial ATP‐sensitive potassium (mitoK ATP) channels. The neuroprotective effect of DBYW and QZS on dopamine (DA) neurons in substantia nigra (SN) in the MPTP‐induced PD mice was investigated by behavioral test (pole test) and immunohistochemistry. Adenosine triphosphate (ATP) level in the midbrain tissue was detected by firefly luciferase method. MitoK ATP channel subunits SUR1 and Kir6.2 mRNA and protein expressions were tested by real‐time PCR (RT‐PCR) and Western blot. It was observed that DBYW and/or QZS served to ameliorate MPTP‐induced behavioral impairment and prevent the loss of substantia nigra dopamine neurons, as well as increase ATP level in the midbrain tissue and downregulate SUR1 expression at mRNA and protein levels with no marked influence on Kir6.2. We concluded that DBYW and QZS exhibit neuroprotective effects probably through the regulation of ATP level and mitoK ATP channel subunit expressions.
Effect of Nitrogen Source and Inorganic Phosphate Concentration on Methanol Utilization andPEXGenes Expression inPichia pastoris
Authors: Rumjantsev A. M. , Bondareva O. V. , Padkina M. V. , Sambuk E. V.
Published: December 2014

Methylotrophic yeastPichia pastorishas proved to be especially useful for production of various heterologous proteins. In biotechnology it is very important to maintain the balance between high levels of heterologous gene expression and cell viability. Decisive understanding of gene regulation mechanisms is essential for reaching this goal. In this study, we investigated the effect of different nitrogen sources and phosphate concentration in media on methanol utilization. It was shown that expression levels of main genes, which are involved in methanol utilization (MUTgenes) and in functioning of peroxisomes (PEXgenes), are maximal when ammonium sulphate is used as a nitrogen source. Expression of these genes is decreased in media with poor nitrogen sources, such as proline. Addition of rapamycin to the media completely removed repression ofAOX1promoter in media with proline, which allows proposing that Tor-kinase is involved in establishing of nitrogen regulation of this gene. It was also shown thatMUTgenes expression levels get higher, when the phosphate concentration in media is increased.
Magnesium Removal from an Aluminum A-332 Molten Alloy Using Enriched Zeolite with Nanoparticles of SiO2
Authors: Muñoz-Arroyo R. , Hdz-García H. M. , Escobedo-Bocardo J. C. , Granda-Gutierrez E. E. , Acevedo-Dávila J. L. , Aguilar-Martínez J. A. , Garza-Gomez A.
Published: December 2014

In order to improve the Mg removal from an A-380 molten alloy, mixtures of zeolite and SiO2nanoparticles (SiO2(NPs)) were tested. Zeolite was enriched with 2.5, 5, 7.5, 10, or 12.5 wt-% of amorphousSiO2(NPs). TheSiO2(NPs)and zeolite were mixed for 30 min in ethanol for each experiment and then dried in a furnace at 80°C for 12 h. The enriched zeolites were analyzed by scanning electron microscopy, transmission electron microscopy, and N2gas adsorption analysis. The Mg removal was carried out injecting each mixture into the molten aluminum alloy at 750°C using argon. The Mg content of the molten alloy was measured after different periods of the injection time. Zeolites enriched with 2.5 and 5 wt-% ofSiO2(NPs)were demonstrated to be the better mixtures, removing Mg from an initial content of 1.6 to a final content of 0.0002 and 0.0101 wt-%, respectively, in 45 min of injection.
A Retrospective Review of Outcomes of Dental Treatment Performed for Special Needs Patients under General Anaesthesia: 2-Year Follow-Up
Authors: Mallineni Sreekanth Kumar , Yiu Cynthia Kar Yung
Published: December 2014

Objective. The purpose of the study was to evaluate the follow-up pattern of special needs patients (SNP) treated under general anaesthesia (GA) and the failure rates of different treatment procedures and restorative materials.Study Design. The treatment records of the patients who received dental treatment under GA during 2005 to 2009 were reviewed. The duration of follow-up periods, the outcomes of different treatment procedures, and the quality of different restorative materials were recorded and evaluated. Statistics were used for the comparison (SPSS 20.0). Pearson’s chi-square test and post hoc analysis were used to evaluate the attendance of postoperative appointments and the associations of failure rates of different treatment procedures and restorative materials. Cohen kappa statistics was used for intraexaminer reliability.Results. A total of 177 patients were included in the study. The attendance of postoperative appointments showed a gradual decrease from 96% to 36% within 24 months (P<0.05). Restorative procedures had the highest failure rates among all treatment procedures (P<0.05). Stainless steel crowns showed higher survival rates among different restorative materials (P<0.05). Pulp treatment in primary molars has higher success rate than primary incisors and canines. Composite restorations placed in primary canines have low survival rates. The intraexaminer reliability was good (k=0.94).Conclusion. The attendance for postoperative follow-up appointments declined within two years. Restorative treatment was less successful when compared to preventive and pulp treatments. Stainless steel crowns were more reliable restorations with higher survival rates and composite restorations were less durable.
CP Violation forB0→ρ0(ω)ρ0(ω)→π+π-π+π-in QCD Factorization
Authors: Lü Gang , Lei Jia-Qi , Guo Xin-Heng
Published: December 2014

In the QCD factorization (QCDF) approach we study the direct CP violation inB-0→ρ0(ω)ρ0(ω)→π+π-π+π-via theρ-ωmixing mechanism. We find that the CP violation can be enhanced by doubleρ-ωmixing when the masses of theπ+π-pairs are in the vicinity of theωresonance, and the maximum CP violation can reach 28%. We also compare the results from the naive factorization and the QCD factorization.
Chorioretinal Atrophy after Spontaneous Resolution of Myopic Foveoschisis
Authors: García-Ben Antonio , García-Campos José Manuel , Morillo Sanchez María José , Figueroa-Ortiz Laura Cristina
Published: December 2014

Myopic foveoschisis is one of the major complications of pathologic myopia, and it was most recently identified by new imaging modalities. During the natural evolution of this complication, anatomical and visual improvement without surgical intervention is an unusual course, and most of these eyes remain stable or progressively worsen. The authors report a case of a highly myopic eye that developed patchy chorioretinal atrophy after spontaneous resolution of myopic foveoschisis, which to the best of our knowledge has not been reported previously in the medical literature.
Effect of Laser Emission Parameters on Mechanical and Physical Properties of Cast Pure Titanium
Authors: Hayashi Taro , Watanabe Ikuya , Kurogi Tadafumi , Shiraishi Takanobu , Murata Hiroshi
Published: December 2014

The objective of this study was to investigate the effect of laser beam parameters on the mechanical and physical properties of cast commercially pure titanium. Dumbbell-shaped test specimens (ISO6871) were cast with ASTM grades 2 and 3 Ti. The cast surfaces were laser-treated with various laser emission parameters (current: 200, 220, and 240 A; spot diameter: 1.0, 1.6 mm; pulse duration: 10, 1 ms) under argon shielding. Tensile testing was conducted at a crosshead speed of 1.0 mm/min. Data of tensile strength and elongation were statistically analyzed using ANOVA/Tukey’s test (α=0.05). Hardness depth profiles were made with cross sections of rod-shaped specimens after laser treatments. Control specimens without laser treatment were also prepared. The laser-treated specimens showed significantly higher tensile strengths than those of control specimen for both grades 2 and 3 Ti. The specimens treated with 1.0 mm spot diameter indicated higher tensile strengths than those treated with 1.6 mm spot diameter for both currents (200 A and 240 A). The laser treatment decreased the subsurface hardness and increased the hardness between 75 μm and 400 μm in depth when compared to the hardness of control specimens. Laser surface treatment for cast commercially pure titanium modified integrity of cast surface and significantly improved mechanical and physical property.
Sodium Meta-Arsenite Ameliorates Hyperglycemia in Obese Diabeticdb/dbMice by Inhibition of Hepatic Gluconeogenesis
Authors: Lee Young-Sun , Lee Eun-Kyu , Oh Hyun-Hee , Choi Cheol Soo , Kim Sujong , Jun Hee-Sook
Published: December 2014

Sodium meta-arsenite (SA) is implicated in the regulation of hepatic gluconeogenesis-related genesin vitro; however, the effectsin vivohave not been studied. We investigated whether SA has antidiabetic effects in a type 2 diabetic mouse model. Diabeticdb/dbmice were orally intubated with SA (10 mg kg−1body weight/day) for 8 weeks. We examined hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c), blood glucose levels, food intake, and body weight. We performed glucose, insulin, and pyruvate tolerance tests and analyzed glucose production and the expression of gluconeogenesis-related genes in hepatocytes. We analyzed energy metabolism using a comprehensive animal metabolic monitoring system. SA-treated diabeticdb/dbmice had reduced concentrations of HbA1c and blood glucose levels. Exogenous glucose was quickly cleared in glucose tolerance tests. The mRNA expressions of genes for gluconeogenesis-related enzymes, glucose 6-phosphatase (G6Pase), and phosphoenolpyruvate carboxykinase (PEPCK) were significantly reduced in the liver of SA-treated diabeticdb/dbmice. In primary hepatocytes, SA treatment decreased glucose production and the expression of G6Pase, PEPCK, and hepatocyte nuclear factor 4 alpha (HNF-4α) mRNA. Small heterodimer partner (SHP) mRNA expression was increased in hepatocytes dependent upon the SA concentration. The expression of Sirt1 mRNA and protein was reduced, and acetylated forkhead box protein O1 (FoxO1) was induced by SA treatment in hepatocytes. In addition, SA-treated diabeticdb/dbmice showed reduced energy expenditure. Oral intubation of SA ameliorates hyperglycemia indb/dbmice by reducing hepatic gluconeogenesis through the decrease of Sirt1 expression and increase in acetylated FoxO1.
Effect of Nanometric Metallic Hydroxides on the Flame Retardant Properties of HDPE Composites
Authors: Beltrán-Ramírez F. I. , Ramos-deValle L. F. , Ramírez-Vargas E. , Sánchez-Valdes S. , Espinoza-Martínez A. B. , Martínez-Colunga J. G. , Rodríguez-Fernandez O. S. , Cabrera-Alvarez E. N. , López-Quintanilla M. L.
Published: December 2014

The effect of nanometric magnesium and aluminum hydroxides on the flame retardancy of high density polyethylene was studied. Additionally, the effect of maleic anhydride grafted polyethylene (PEgMA) and methyl acrylate grafted polyethylene (EMA) compatibilizers, on the tensile properties, was also studied.
Morphological characterization of nanocomposites was carried out by means of scanning transmission electron microscopy (STEM). Flame retardant properties of nanocomposites were evaluated by the UL‐94 horizontal and vertical tests as well as by cone calorimeter tests. Thermal degradation behavior was analyzed with a thermogravimetric analyzer (TGA). Tensile tests were carried out according to ASTM D 638‐03 in an Instron 4301 tensile testing machine. From STEM images, a good dispersion of flame retardants (MH and ATH) in the polymer matrix was observed, which was reflected in the flame retardant properties. Results showed that the combination of nanometric MH and ATH produced excellent flame retardant properties, achieving a classification of V0 in the UL‐94‐V test and producing the lowest peak of heat release rate (PHRR) and the lowest total heat released (THR) in the cone calorimeter test. Finally, the addition of compatibilizer, especially PEgMA, resulted in much better tensile properties as compared to the noncompatibilized composition, maintaining the flame retardant properties.
Evaluation of Antioxidant Activity and Acute Toxicity of Clausena excavata Leaves Extract
Authors: Albaayit Shaymaa Fadhel Abbas , Abba Yusuf , Abdullah Rasedee , Abdullah Noorlidah
Published: December 2014

Clausena excavata (Lour.), locally known as “Kemantu hitam,” is a common plant in Malaysian folklore medicine. This study evaluated the antioxidant properties of the solvent extracts of C. excavata leaves and determined the acute toxicity of methanolic extract C. excavata (MECE) leaves in Sprague‐Dawley rats. Harvested leaves were dried and subjected to solvent extraction using petroleum ether, chloroform, ethyl acetate and methanol in succession. The antioxidant activity of each extract was determined using the ferric‐reducing antioxidant power (FRAP) and 2,2‐diphenyl‐1‐picryl dihydrazyl (DPPH) radical scavenging activity. The total phenolic content (TPC) and total flavonoids content (TFC) were estimated by Folin‐Ciocalteu and ethanolic aluminium chloride method, respectively. The chloroform extract was found to be highest in flavonoid content, while the methanolic extract showed the highest TPC and antioxidant activity. There was no mortality in rats treated with MECE leaves even at a high dose of 5000 mg/kg body weight. However, the MECE leaves produced mild to moderate pathological changes in the liver and kidneys, shown by mild degenerative changes and leucocyte infiltration. The extract did not affect the haematological parameters or relative weights of the liver or kidneys. Overall, the MECE leaves have potent antioxidant activity and are presumed safe to be used orally as health‐promoting product at low to moderate doses.
Supplementation of Superfine Powder Prepared from Chaenomeles speciosa Fruit Increases Endurance Capacity in Rats via Antioxidant and Nrf2/ARE Signaling Pathway
Authors: Chen Ka , You Jia , Tang Yong , Zhou Yong , Liu Peng , Zou Dan , Zhou Qicheng , Zhang Ting , Zhu Jundong , Mi Mantian
Published: December 2014

Chaenomeles speciosa fruit is a traditional herb medicine widely used in China. In this study, superfine powder of C. speciosa fruit (SCE), ground by supersonic nitrogen airflow at −140°C, was investigated to assess its in vitro antioxidant activity and in vivo antiphysical fatigue activity. SCE was homogenous (d < 10 μm) and rich in antioxidants like polyphenols, saponins, oleanolic acid, ursolic acid, ascorbic acid, and SOD. According to the in vitro experiments, SCE displayed promising antioxidant activity with powerful FARP, SC‐DPPH, and SC‐SAR activities. According to the in vivo experiments, rats supplemented with SCE had prolonged exhaustive swimming time (57%) compared to the nonsupplemented rats. Meanwhile, compared to the nonsupplemented rats, the SCE‐supplemented rats had higher levels of blood glucose and liver and muscular glycogen and lower levels of LA and BUN. Lower MDA, higher antioxidant enzymes (SOD, CAT, and GSH‐Px) activities, and upregulated Nrf2/ARE mediated antioxidant enzymes (HO‐1, Trx, GCLM, and GCLC) expression were also detected in the supplemented group. This study indicates that SCE is a potent antioxidant and antifatigue agent, and SCE could be a promising raw material for the food and pharmaceutical industries.
Antiatherosclerotic Effect of Korean Red Ginseng Extract Involves Regulator of G‐Protein Signaling 5
Authors: Im Eun Ju , Yayeh Taddesse , Park Sang-Joon , Kim Seung-Hyung , Goo Youn-Kyoung , Hong Seung-Bok , Son Young Min , Kim Sung Dae , Rhee Man Hee
Published: December 2014

Regulator of G‐protein signaling 5 (RGS5), an inhibitor of Gα(q) and Gα(i) activation, has been reported to have antiatherosclerosis. Previous studies showed antiatherosclerotic effect of Korean red ginseng water extract (KRGE) via multiple signaling pathways. However, potential protective effect of KRGE through RGS5 expression has not been elucidated. Here, we investigated the antiatherosclerotic effect of KRGE in vivo and in vitro and its role on RGS5 mRNA expression. Elevated levels of total cholesterol, lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), and triglyceride (TG) in western diet groups of low‐density lipoprotein receptor deficient LDLr−/− mice were reversed by oral administration of KRGE. KRGE suppressed transcriptional activity of tumor necrotic factor alpha (TNF‐α), interleukin‐6 (IL‐6), and leptin in adipose tissue. It also potently repressed western diet‐induced atheroma formation in aortic sinus. While KRGE showed reduced mRNA expression of inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS), cyclooxygenase‐2 (COX‐2), IL‐1β, IL‐6, and TNF‐α in LPS‐stimulated RAW264.7 cells, it enhanced mRNA expression of RGS5. Moreover, RGS5 siRNA transfection of microglia cells pretreated with KRGE reversed its inhibitory effect on the expression of iNOS, COX‐2, and IL‐1β mRNA. In conclusion, KRGE showed antiatherosclerotic and anti‐inflammatory effects in western diet fed LDLr−/− mice and this effect could partly be mediated by RGS5 expression.