bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Emerging Use ofIn VivoOptical Imaging in the Study of Neurodegenerative Diseases
Authors: Patterson Aileen P. , Booth Stephanie A. , Saba Reuben
Published: July 2014

The detection and subsequent quantification of photons emitted from living tissues, using highly sensitive charged-couple device (CCD) cameras, have enabled investigators to noninvasively examine the intricate dynamics of molecular reactions in wide assortment of experimental animals under basal and pathophysiological conditions. Nevertheless, extrapolation of thisin vivooptical imaging technology to the study of the mammalian brain and related neurodegenerative conditions is still in its infancy. In this review, we introduce the reader to the emerging use ofin vivooptical imaging in the study of neurodegenerative diseases. We highlight the current instrumentation that is available and reporter molecules (fluorescent and bioluminescent) that are commonly used. Moreover, we examine howin vivooptical imaging using transgenic reporter mice has provided new insights into Alzheimer’s disease, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), Prion disease, and neuronal damage arising from excitotoxicity and inflammation. Furthermore, we also touch upon studies that have utilized these technologies for the development of therapeutic strategies for neurodegenerative conditions that afflict humans.
Treatment of Bilateral Varicocele and Other Scrotal Comorbidities Using a Single Scrotal Access: Our Experience on 34 Patients
Authors: Iacono F. , Ruffo A. , Prezioso D. , Romeo G. , Illiano E. , Di Lauro G. , Romis L. , Sansalone S.
Published: July 2014

Introduction. Varicocele is the main cause of infertility in male and the most correctable cause of it too. In this study, we present our experience on 34 patients affected by bilateral varicocele and other scrotal comorbidities treated underwent surgery with a scrotal access.Materials and Methods. 34 patients were enrolled with clinical palpable and infraclinical (ultrasonic doppler scanning) bilateral varicocele and other comorbidities like right hydrocele, left hydrocele, bilateral hydrocele, and epididymal cyst. They all underwent scrotal bilateral varicocelectomy under local anesthesia.Results and Discussion. At 6 months, no other complications were reported. No case of testicular atrophy was observed. None had recurrence of varicocele. All scrotal comorbidities were treated as well.Conclusion. Scrotal access with local anesthesia is a safe and useful technique to treat patients with bilateral varicocele and other scrotal comorbidities.
Evaluation of Autogenous Engineered Septal Cartilage Grafts in Rabbits: A Minimally Invasive Preclinical Model
Authors: Kushnaryov Anton , Yamaguchi Tomonoro , Briggs Kristen K. , Wong Van W. , Reuther Marsha , Neuman Monica , Lin Victor , Sah Robert L. , Masuda Koichi , Watson Deborah
Published: July 2014

Objectives. (1) Evaluate safety of autogenous engineered septal neocartilage grafts and (2) compare properties of implanted grafts versus controls.Study Design. Prospective, basic science.Setting. Research laboratory.Methods. Constructs were fabricated from septal cartilage and then cultured in vitro or implanted on the nasal dorsum as autogenous grafts for 30 or 60 days. Rabbits were monitored for local and systemic complications. Histological, biochemical, and biomechanical properties of constructs were evaluated.Results. No serious complications were observed. Implanted constructs contained more DNA (P<0.01) and less sGAG perDNA (P<0.05) when compared with in vitro controls. Confined compressive aggregate moduli were also higher in implanted constructs (P<0.05) and increased with longer in vivo incubation time (P<0.01). Implanted constructs displayed resorption rates of 20–45 percent. Calcium deposition in implanted constructs was observe.Conclusion. Autogenous engineered septal cartilage grafts were well tolerated. As seen in experiments with athymic mice, implanted constructs accumulated more DNA and less sGAG when compared with in vitro controls. Confined compressive aggregate moduli were higher in implanted constructs. Implanted constructs displayed resorption rates similar to previously published studies using autogenous implants of native cartilage.
Speech Understanding with a New Implant Technology: A Comparative Study with a New Nonskin Penetrating Baha System
Authors: Kurz Anja , Flynn Mark , Caversaccio Marco , Kompis Martin
Published: July 2014

Objective.To compare hearing and speech understanding between a new, nonskin penetrating Baha system (Baha Attract) to the current Baha system using a skin-penetrating abutment.Methods.Hearing and speech understanding were measured in 16 experienced Baha users. The transmission path via the abutment was compared to a simulated Baha Attract transmission path by attaching the implantable magnet to the abutment and then by adding a sample of artificial skin and the external parts of the Baha Attract system. Four different measurements were performed: bone conduction thresholds directly through the sound processor (BC Direct), aided sound field thresholds, aided speech understanding in quiet, and aided speech understanding in noise.Results.The simulated Baha Attract transmission path introduced an attenuation starting from approximately 5 dB at 1000 Hz, increasing to 20–25 dB above 6000 Hz. However, aided sound field threshold shows smaller differences and aided speech understanding in quiet and in noise does not differ significantly between the two transmission paths.Conclusion.The Baha Attract system transmission path introduces predominately high frequency attenuation. This attenuation can be partially compensated by adequate fitting of the speech processor. No significant decrease in speech understanding in either quiet or in noise was found.
Inviscid Uniform Shear Flow past a Smooth Concave Body
Authors: Murad Abdullah
Published: July 2014

Uniform shear flow of an incompressible inviscid fluid past a two-dimensional smooth concave body is studied; a stream function for resulting flow is obtained. Results for the same flow past a circular cylinder or a circular arc or a kidney-shaped body are presented as special cases of the main result. Also, a stream function for resulting flow around the same body is presented for an oncoming flow which is the combination of a uniform stream and a uniform shear flow. Possible fields of applications of this study include water flows past river islands, the shapes of which deviate from circular or elliptical shape and have a concave region, or past circular arc-shaped river islands and air flows past concave or circular arc-shaped obstacles near the ground.
Moxibustion Activates Macrophage Autophagy and Protects Experimental Mice against Bacterial Infection
Authors: Li Xiaojuan , Guo Guanhua , Shen Feng , Kong Lihong , Liang Fengxia , Sun Guojie
Published: July 2014

Moxibustion is one of main therapies in traditional Chinese medicine and uses heat stimulation on the body surface from the burning of moxa to release pain or treat diseases. Emerging studies have shown that moxibustion can generate therapeutic effects by activating a series of signaling pathways and neuroendocrine‐immune activities. Here we show moxibustion promoted profound macrophage autophagy in experimental Kunming mice, with reduced Akt phosphorylation and activated eIF2α phosphorylation. Consequently, moxibustion promoted bacterial clearance by macrophages and protected mice from mortality due to bacterial infection. These results indicate that moxibustion generates a protective response by activating autophagy against bacterial infections.
Aaptamines from the Marine SpongeAaptossp. Display Anticancer Activities in Human Cancer Cell Lines and Modulate AP-1-, NF-κB-, and p53-Dependent Transcriptional Activity in Mouse JB6 Cl41 Cells
Authors: Dyshlovoy Sergey A. , Fedorov Sergey N. , Shubina Larisa K. , Kuzmich Alexandra S. , Bokemeyer Carsten , Keller-von Amsberg Gunhild , Honecker Friedemann
Published: July 2014

Aaptamine (8,9-dimethoxy-1H-benzo[de][1,6]naphthyridine) is a marine natural compound possessing antioxidative, antimicrobial, antifungal, and antiretroviral activity. Earlier, we have found that aaptamine and its derivatives demonstrate equal anticancer effects against the human germ cell cancer cell lines NT2 and NT2-R and cause some changes in the proteome of these cells. In order to explore further the mechanism of action of aaptamine and its derivatives, we studied the effects of aaptamine (1), demethyl(oxy)aaptamine (2), and isoaaptamine (3) on human cancer cell lines and on AP-1-, NF-κB-, and p53-dependent transcriptional activity in murine JB6 Cl41 cells. We showed that compounds1–3demonstrate anticancer activity in THP-1, HeLa, SNU-C4, SK-MEL-28, and MDA-MB-231 human cancer cell lines. Additionally, all compounds were found to prevent EGF-induced neoplastic transformation of murine JB6 Cl41 cells. Nuclear factors AP-1, NF-κB, and p53 are involved in the cellular response to high and nontoxic concentrations of aaptamine alkaloids1–3. Furthermore, inhibition of EGF-induced JB6 cell transformation, which is exerted by the compounds1–3at low nontoxic concentrations of 0.7–2.1 μM, cannot be explained by activation of AP-1 and NF-κB.
Symmetries, Associated First Integrals, and Double Reduction of Difference Equations
Authors: Ndlovu L. , Folly-Gbetoula M. , Kara A. H. , Love A.
Published: July 2014

We determine the symmetry generators of some ordinary difference equations and proceeded to find the first integral and reduce the order of the difference equations. We show that, in some cases, the symmetry generator and first integral areassociatedvia the “invariance condition.” That is, the first integral may be invariant under the symmetry of the original difference equation. When this condition is satisfied, we may proceed to double reduction of the difference equation.
Towards Understanding the Roles of Heparan Sulfate Proteoglycans in Alzheimer’s Disease
Authors: Zhang Gan-lin , Zhang Xiao , Wang Xiao-min , Li Jin-Ping
Published: July 2014

Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is the most common form of dementia, characterized by progressive loss of memory and cognitive dysfunctions. A central pathological event of AD is accumulation and deposition of cytotoxic amyloid-βpeptide (Aβ) in the brain parenchyma. Heparan sulfate proteoglycans (HSPGs) and the side chains heparan sulfate (HS) are found associated with Aβdeposits in the brains of AD patients and transgenic animal models of AD. A growing body of evidence fromin vitroandin vivostudies suggests functional roles of HSPG/HS in Aβpathogenesis. Although the question of “how and why HSPG/HS is codeposited with Aβ?” still remains, it is within reach to understand the mechanisms of the events. Recent progress by immunohistochemical examination with advanced antibodies shed light on molecular structures of HS codeposited with Aβ. Several recent reports have provided important new insights into the roles of HSPG in Aβpathogenesis. Particularly, experiments on mouse models revealed indispensible functions of HSPG in modulating Aβ-associated neuroinflammation and clearance of Aβfrom the brain. Application of molecules to interfere with the interaction between HS and Aβpeptides has demonstrated beneficial effects on AD mouse models. Elucidating the functions of HSPG/HS in Aβdeposition and toxicity is leading to further understanding of the complex pathology of AD. The progress is encouraging development of new treatments for AD by targeting HS-Aβinteractions.
The Convergence of Geometric Mesh Cubic Spline Finite Difference Scheme for Nonlinear Higher Order Two-Point Boundary Value Problems
Authors: Jha Navnit , Mohanty R. K. , Chauhan Vinod
Published: July 2014

An efficient algorithm for the numerical solution of higher (even) orders two-point nonlinear boundary value problems has been developed. The method is third order accurate and applicable to both singular and nonsingular cases. We have used cubic spline polynomial basis and geometric mesh finite difference technique for the generation of this new scheme. The irreducibility and monotone property of the iteration matrix have been established and the convergence analysis of the proposed method has been discussed. Some numerical experiments have been carried out to demonstrate the computational efficiency in terms of convergence order, maximum absolute errors, and root mean square errors. The numerical results justify the reliability and efficiency of the method in terms of both order and accuracy.
Further Application of Surface Capturing Method and Cartesian Cut Cell Mesh on Hydroelastic Water‐Entry Problems of Free‐Falling Elastic Wedge
Authors: Wang Wen-hua , Huang Yi , Wang Yan-ying
Published: July 2014

In order to study the interactions between fluid and elastic structure (such as marine lifeboat falling down and ship), this paper presents a new CFD method on hydroelastic water‐entry problem of free‐falling elastic wedge, which can more conveniently handle moving solid boundaries. In the CFD solver, a surface capturing method and the Cartesian cut cell mesh are employed to deal with the moving free surface and solid boundaries, respectively. On the other hand, in structural analysis, the finite element method and lath‐beam structural model are introduced to calculate the elastic response. Furthermore, based on the current CFD and structural solver, a particular data transfer method and coupling strategy are presented for the fluid‐structure interaction. Finally, by comparing numerical results with experimental data, the present method is validated to be available and feasible for hydroelastic water‐entry problem and further successfully adopted to analyze the motion characteristics of free‐falling elastic wedge.
Sphingosine-1-phosphate/S1P Receptors Signaling Modulates Cell Migration in Human Bone Marrow-Derived Mesenchymal Stem Cells
Authors: Kong Yaxian , Wang Hong , Lin Tao , Wang Shuling
Published: July 2014

The recruitment of bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cells (BMSCs) to damaged tissues and sites of inflammation is an essential step for clinical therapy. However, the signals regulating the motility of these cells are still not fully understood. Sphingosine-1-phosphate (S1P), a bioactive sphingolipid metabolite, is known to have a variety of biological effects on various cells. Here, we investigated the roles of S1P and S1P receptors (S1PRs) in migration of human BMSCs. We found that S1P exerted a powerful migratory action on human BMSCs. Moreover, by employing RNA interference technology and pharmacological tools, we demonstrated that S1PR1 and S1PR3 are responsible for S1P-induced migration of human BMSCs. In contrast, S1PR2 mediates the inhibition of migration. Additionally, we explored the downstream signaling pathway of the S1P/S1PRs axis and found that activation of S1PR1 or S1PR3 increased migration of human BMSCs through aGi/extracellular regulated protein kinases 1/2- (ERK1/2-) dependent pathway, whereas activation of S1PR2 decreased migration through the Rho/Rho-associated protein kinase (ROCK) pathway. In conclusion, we reveal that the S1P/S1PRs signaling axis regulates the migration of human BMSCs via a dual-directional mechanism. Thus, selective modulation of S1PR’s activity on human BMSCs may provide an effective approach to immunotherapy or tissue regeneration.
Informative Gene Selection and Direct Classification of Tumor Based on Chi-Square Test of Pairwise Gene Interactions
Authors: Zhang Hongyan , Li Lanzhi , Luo Chao , Sun Congwei , Chen Yuan , Dai Zhijun , Yuan Zheming
Published: July 2014

In efforts to discover disease mechanisms and improve clinical diagnosis of tumors, it is useful to mine profiles for informative genes with definite biological meanings and to build robust classifiers with high precision. In this study, we developed a new method for tumor-gene selection, the Chi-square test-based integrated rank gene and direct classifier (χ2-IRG-DC). First, we obtained the weighted integrated rank of gene importance from chi-square tests of single and pairwise gene interactions. Then, we sequentially introduced the ranked genes and removed redundant genes by using leave-one-out cross-validation of the chi-square test-based Direct Classifier (χ2-DC) within the training set to obtain informative genes. Finally, we determined the accuracy of independent test data by utilizing the genes obtained above withχ2-DC. Furthermore, we analyzed the robustness ofχ2-IRG-DC by comparing the generalization performance of different models, the efficiency of different feature-selection methods, and the accuracy of different classifiers. An independent test of ten multiclass tumor gene-expression datasets showed thatχ2-IRG-DC could efficiently control overfitting and had higher generalization performance. The informative genes selected byχ2-IRG-DC could dramatically improve the independent test precision of other classifiers; meanwhile, the informative genes selected by other feature selection methods also had good performance inχ2-DC.
Functional MRI in Prostate Cancer Detection
Authors: Sankineni Sandeep , Osman Murat , Choyke Peter L.
Published: July 2014

Multiparametric magnetic resonance imaging (MP-MRI) has emerged as a promising method for the detection of prostate cancer. The functional MRI components of the MP-MRI consist of the diffusion weighted MRI, dynamic contrast enhanced MRI, and magnetic resonance spectroscopic imaging. The purpose of this paper is to review the existing literature about the use of functional MRI in prostate cancer detection.
An Evaluation of Electroacupuncture at the Weizhong Acupoint (BL‐40) as a Means of Relieving Pain Induced by Extracorporeal Shock Wave Lithotripsy
Authors: Chen Wei-Ta , Chang Fang-Chia , Chen Yi-Hung , Lin Jaung-Geng
Published: July 2014

Background. Extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy (ESWL) is the preferred option for urolithiasis treatment. However, intensities of pain may be induced and the sedative anesthetic or analgesics were usually needed. The aim of this study was to develop an improved acupuncture‐assisted anesthesia approach in pain relief. Methods. We conducted a single‐blind, randomized controlled study in China Medical University Hospital. Patients treated by ESWL due to upper urolithiasis were randomly divided into control group, sham‐EA group, and 100 Hz EA group. The high frequency electroacupuncture (EA) was applied at the Weizhong acupoint (100 Hz EA group) for 20 minutes prior to the ESWL. In the sham‐EA group, the same procedures were performed as those of 100 Hz EA group but no electric current was given to stimulate the acupoints. In the control group, no action was taken before operation. The information including the numbers and dosage of analgesic requirements, pain score, vital signs, and the satisfaction of procedure was collected. Results. A total of 74 subjects were recruited and we found that the interval to the first request analgesic, the number/total dosage of additional analgesic, recovery time from anesthesia, and the satisfaction were all better in both the 100 Hz EA and the sham‐EA group. The 100 Hz EA also showed better relief of painful sensations by delaying the onset of pain. Conclusions. The 100 Hz EA and the sham‐EA can effectively relieve pain due to ESWL as well as reducing the dosage of opium analgesic used.
Some New Classes of Generalized Difference Strongly Summablen-Normed Sequence Spaces Defined by Ideal Convergence and Orlicz Function
Authors: Kılıçman Adem , Borgohain Stuti
Published: July 2014

We study some new generalized difference strongly summablen-normed sequence spaces using ideal convergence and an Orlicz function in connection with de la Vallèe Poussin mean. We give some relations related to these sequence spaces also.
On Harmonic Functions Defined by Differential Operator with Respect tok-Symmetric Points
Authors: Abubaker Afaf A. Ali , Darus Maslina
Published: July 2014

We introduce new classesMHkσ,s(λ,δ,α)andM¯Hkσ,s(λ,δ,α)of harmonic univalent functions with respect tok-symmetric points defined by differential operator. We determine a sufficient coefficient condition, representation theorem, and distortion theorem.
Platelet Concentration in Platelet-Rich Plasma Affects Tenocyte BehaviorIn Vitro
Authors: Giusti Ilaria , D’Ascenzo Sandra , Mancò Annalisa , Di Stefano Gabriella , Di Francesco Marianna , Rughetti Anna , Dal Mas Antonella , Properzi Gianfranco , Calvisi Vittorio , Dolo Vincenza
Published: July 2014

Since tendon injuries and tendinopathy are a growing problem, sometimes requiring surgery, new strategies that improve conservative therapies are needed. Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) seems to be a good candidate by virtue of its high content of growth factors, most of which are involved in tendon healing. This study aimed to evaluate if different concentrations of platelets in PRP have different effects on the biological features of normal human tenocytes that are usually required during tendon healing. The different platelet concentrations tested (up to 5 × 106 plt/µL) stimulated differently tenocytes behavior; intermediate concentrations (0.5 × 106, 1 × 106 plt/µL) strongly induced all tested processes (proliferation, migration, collagen, and MMPs production) if compared to untreated cells; on the contrary, the highest concentration had inhibitory effects on proliferation and strongly reduced migration abilities and overall collagen production but, at the same time, induced increasing MMP production, which could be counterproductive because excessive proteolysis could impair tendon mechanical stability. Thus, thesein vitrodata strongly suggest the need for a compromise between extremely high and low platelet concentrations to obtain an optimal global effect when inducingin vivotendon healing.
Computer Aided Modeling and Analysis of Five-Phase PMBLDC Motor Drive for Low Power High Torque Application
Authors: Inayathullaah M. A. , Anita R.
Published: July 2014

In order to achieve high torque at low power with high efficiency, a new five-phase permanent magnet brushless DC (PMBLDC) motor design was analyzed and optimized. A similar three-phase motor having the sameD/Lratio (inner diameter (D) and length of the stator (L)) is compared for maximum torque and torque ripple of the designed five-phase PMBLDC motor. Maxwell software was used to build finite element simulation model of the motor. The internal complicated magnetic field distribution and dynamic performance simulation were obtained in different positions. No load and load characteristics of the five-phase PMBLDC motor were simulated, and the power consumption of materials was computed. The conformity of the final simulation results indicates that this method can be used to provide a theoretical basis for further optimal design of this new type of motor with its drive so as to improve the starting torque and reduce torque ripple of the motor.
Newborn Screening for Sickle Cell Disease: Technical and Legal Aspects of a German Pilot Study with 38,220 Participants
Authors: Frömmel Claudia , Brose Annemarie , Klein Jeannette , Blankenstein Oliver , Lobitz Stephan
Published: July 2014

Sickle cell disease (SCD) does not occur in the indigenous German population, but with the increasing number of immigrants from countries at high risk for hemoglobinopathies, the question emerges whether or not a newborn screening program (NBS) for SCD disease should be initiated in Germany anyhow. We have recently shown that in Berlin, a city with a very large immigrant population, the incidence of SCD is considerable, but our findings are insufficient to make a decision for the country as a whole. In this paper we will show that a large body of epidemiological data can be generated in a relatively short period of time, with a very high degree of precision and at relatively little expense—a result that might motivate other working groups to start such a pilot project locally. We examined previously collected dried blood cards that were up to six months old, using high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) as first method and capillary electrophoresis (CE) as second method. A single, part-time laboratory technician processed 38,220 samples in a period of 162 working days. The total costs per sample including all incidentals (as well as labor costs) were EUR 1.44.
Differential Network Analyses of Alzheimer’s Disease Identify Early Events in Alzheimer’s Disease Pathology
Authors: Xia Jing , Rocke David M. , Perry George , Ray Monika
Published: July 2014

In late-onset Alzheimer’s disease (AD), multiple brain regions are not affected simultaneously. Comparing the gene expression of the affected regions to identify the differences in the biological processes perturbed can lead to greater insight into AD pathogenesis and early characteristics. We identified differentially expressed (DE) genes from single cell microarray data of four AD affected brain regions: entorhinal cortex (EC), hippocampus (HIP), posterior cingulate cortex (PCC), and middle temporal gyrus (MTG). We organized the DE genes in the four brain regions into region-specific gene coexpression networks. Differential neighborhood analyses in the coexpression networks were performed to identify genes with low topological overlap (TO) of their direct neighbors. The low TO genes were used to characterize the biological differences between two regions. Our analyses show that increased oxidative stress, along with alterations in lipid metabolism in neurons, may be some of the very early events occurring in AD pathology. Cellular defense mechanisms try to intervene but fail, finally resulting in AD pathology as the disease progresses. Furthermore, disease annotation of the low TO genes in two independent protein interaction networks has resulted in association between cancer, diabetes, renal diseases, and cardiovascular diseases.
A New Model of Ultracapacitors Based on Fractal Fundamentals
Authors: Zhang Xiaodong , Sun Yi , Song Jia , Wu Aijun , Cui Xiaoyan
Published: July 2014

An intuitive model is proposed in this paper to describe the electrical behavior of certain ultracapacitors. The model is based on a simple expression that can be fully characterized by five real numbers. In this paper, the measured impedances of three ultracapacitors as a function of frequency are compared to model results. There is good agreement between the model and measurements. Results presented in a previous study are also reviewed and the paper demonstrates that those results are also consistent with the newly described model.
Classification of Earthquake‐Induced Damage for R/C Slab Column Frames Using Multiclass SVM and Its Combination with MLP Neural Network
Authors: Kia Ali , Sensoy Serhan
Published: July 2014

Nonlinear time history analysis (NTHA) is an important engineering method in order to evaluate the seismic vulnerability of buildings under earthquake loads. However, it is time consuming and requires complex calculations and a high memory machine. In this study, two networks were used for damage classification: multiclass support vector machine (M‐SVM) and combination of multilayer perceptron neural network with M‐SVM (MM‐SVM). In order to collect data, three frames of R/C slab column frame buildings with wide beams in slab were considered. For NTHA, twenty different ground motion records were selected and scaled to ten different levels of peak ground acceleration (PGA). Thus, 600 obtained data from the numerical simulations were applied to M‐SVM and MM‐SVM in order to predict the global damage classification of samples based on park and Ang damage index. Amongst the four different kernel tricks, the Gaussian function was determined as an efficient kernel trick using the maximum total accuracy method of test data. By comparing the obtained results from M‐SVM and MM‐SVM, the total classification accuracy of MM‐SVM is more than M‐SVM and it is accurate and reliable for global damage classification of R/C slab column frames. Furthermore, the proposed combined model is able to classify the classes with low members.
Mayer-Rokitansky-Kuster-Hauser Syndrome Associated with Severe Inferior Vena Cava Stenosis
Authors: Londra Laura , Tobler Kyle , Wu John , Kolp Lisa
Published: July 2014

Precis. The postoperative course of a neovagina creation procedure in a young woman with Meyer-Rokitansky-Kuster-Hauser syndrome was complicated, despite prophylaxis, by extensive pelvic deep venous thrombosis secondary to unsuspected severe inferior vena cava stenosis.Background. Mayer-Rokitansky-Kuster-Hauser (MRKH) syndrome is characterized by congenital vaginal agenesis and an absent or rudimentary uterus in genotypical females. Malformations of the inferior vena cava (IVC) are not commonly associated with MRKH syndrome. We report a case of a patient with MRKH syndrome with severe IVC stenosis that was diagnosed when the patient presented with extensive pelvic deep venous thrombosis (DVT) during the postoperative course of a neovagina creation.Case. A 19-year-old female underwent a McIndoe procedure. Despite DVT prophylaxis, extensive pelvic DVT of the femoral vein was diagnosed on postoperative day 7. Therapeutic anticoagulation was initiated, and pharmacological and mechanical thrombolysis were performed. During these procedures, a hypoplastic IVC was noted.Conclusion. MRKH syndrome can be associated with IVC malformations, which constitute an anatomical risk factor for postoperative DVT.
PPARα: A Master Regulator of Bilirubin Homeostasis
Authors: Bigo Cyril , Kaeding Jenny , El Husseini Diala , Rudkowska Iwona , Verreault Mélanie , Vohl Marie Claude , Barbier Olivier
Published: July 2014

Hypolipidemic fibrates activate the peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor (PPAR)αto modulate lipid oxidation and metabolism. The present study aimed at evaluating how 3 PPARαagonists, namely, fenofibrate, gemfibrozil, and Wy14,643, affect bilirubin synthesis and metabolism. Human umbilical vein epithelial cells (HUVEC) and coronary artery smooth muscle cells (CASMC) were cultured in the absence or presence of the 3 activators, and mRNA, protein, and/or activity levels of the bilirubin synthesizing heme oxygenase- (HO-) 1 and biliverdin reductase (BVR) enzymes were determined. Human hepatocytes (HH) and HepG2 cells sustained similar treatments, except that the expression of the bilirubin conjugating UDP-glucuronosyltransferase (UGT) 1A1 enzyme and multidrug resistance-associated protein (MRP) 2 transporter was analyzed. In HUVECs, gemfibrozil, fenofibrate, and Wy14,643 upregulated HO-1 mRNA expression without affecting BVR. Wy14,643 and fenofibrate also caused HO-1 protein accumulation, while gemfibrozil and fenofibrate favored the secretion of bilirubin in cell media. Similar positive regulations were also observed with the 3 PPARαligands in CASMCs where HO-1 mRNA and protein levels were increased. In HH and HepG2 cells, both UGT1A1 and MRP2 transcripts were also accumulating. These observations indicate that PPARαligands activate bilirubin synthesis in vascular cells and metabolism in liver cells. The clinical implications of these regulatory events are discussed.
A Rapid, Isocratic HPLC Method for Determination of Insulin and Its Degradation Product
Authors: Najjar Ahmad , Alawi Mahmoud , AbuHeshmeh Najiah , Sallam Alsayed
Published: July 2014

This paper aimed to develop a simple, sensitive, and rapid chromatographic procedure for the simultaneous analysis of human insulin and its main decomposition product using isocratic RP-HPLC/UV. A column type RP-C18 (100 × 4.6 mm, 3 μm particle size, and pore size 130 Å) was used. o-Nitrophenol was used as internal standard. The eluent consists of 62% KH2PO4 buffer (0.1 M), 26% ACN, and 12% MeOH. The final pH was adjusted to 3.1. The eluent was pumped at a flow rate of 1.0 mL/min and the effluent was monitored using DAD detector at 214 nm. The method produces a linear response over the concentration range of 0.0106 to 0.6810 mg/mL with detection limit of 0.0029 mg/mL. Considering the specifications of this method, the system was found to be suitable for rapid, direct routine analysis and stability studies of insulin.
Vitamin C Protected Human Retinal Pigmented Epithelium from Oxidant Injury Depending on Regulating SIRT1
Authors: Wei Wei , Li Langen , Zhang Yufeng , Geriletu  , Yang Jia , Zhang Yanmei , Xing Yiqiao
Published: July 2014

The purpose was to investigate the protective effects of Vitamin C (Vit C) and the regulatory mechanism between Vit C and sirtuin 1 (SIRT1) in PREs during oxidative stress as Vit C and SIRT1 exerted famous effects as antioxidants. We found that moderate Vit C (100 µM) prevented ARPE-19 cells from damages induced by H2O2, including increasing viability, reducing apoptosis, and attenuating intracellular ROS levels. But lower and higher concentration of Vit C had no effects. Further results indicated that Vit C caused the dysregulation of some stress responses factors (SIRT1, p53 and FOXO3) in ARPE-19 cells response to H2O2. Moreover we found that SIRT1 activator resveratrol (SRV) stimulated significantly the protective effects of moderate Vit C, provided the property of antioxidative stress for the lower and higher concentration of Vit C in ARPE-19 cells as well. Consistently, nicotinamide (NA) relieved the protective functions of moderate Vit C. Interestingly, data also revealed the dysregulation of p53 and FOXO3 was dependent on the regulation of SIRT1 rather than Vit C. Summarily, the protective effect of Vit C against oxidative stress was involved in regulation of SIRT1. It suggested that combined application of Vit C and RSV might be a promising therapeutic method for AMD.
Biological Effects ofSpirulina(Arthrospira) Biopolymers and Biomass in the Development of Nanostructured Scaffolds
Authors: Morais Michele Greque de , Vaz Bruna da Silva , Morais Etiele Greque de , Costa Jorge Alberto Vieira
Published: July 2014

Spirulinais produced from pure cultures of the photosynthetic prokaryotic cyanobacteriaArthrospira. For many years research centers throughout the world have studied its application in various scientific fields, especially in foods and medicine. The biomass produced fromSpirulinacultivation contains a variety of biocompounds, including biopeptides, biopolymers, carbohydrates, essential fatty acids, minerals, oligoelements, and sterols. Some of these compounds are bioactive and have anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, antioxidant, and antifungal properties. These compounds can be used in tissue engineering, the interdisciplinary field that combines techniques from cell science, engineering, and materials science and which has grown in importance over the past few decades.Spirulinabiomass can be used to produce polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHAs), biopolymers that can substitute synthetic polymers in the construction of engineered extracellular matrices (scaffolds) for use in tissue cultures or bioactive molecule construction. This review describes the development of nanostructured scaffolds based on biopolymers extracted from microalgae and biomass fromSpirulinaproduction. These scaffolds have the potential to encourage cell growth while reducing the risk of organ or tissue rejection.
Rectal Sensitivity in Diabetes Patients with Symptoms of Gastroparesis
Authors: Søfteland Eirik , Brock Christina , Frøkjær Jens B. , Simrén Magnus , Drewes Asbjørn M. , Dimcevski Georg
Published: July 2014

In a clinical setting, diabetic autonomic complications (cardiac, gastrointestinal, urogenital, etc.) are often handled as separate entities. We investigated rectal sensitivity to heat, mechanical distension, and electrical stimulations in 20 patients with diabetes and symptoms of gastroparesis, to evaluate the extent of visceral neuronal damage. Furthermore, to evaluate the relation between the nervous structures we examined gastric emptying and cardiac autonomic function with the hypothesis being an association between these. We found that 60% of patients had delayed gastric empting. Rectal hyposensitivity was a general finding as they tolerated 67% higher thermal, 42% more mechanical, and 33% higher electrical current intensity compared to healthy controls. In patients, most heart rate variability parameters were reduced; they reported significantly more gastrointestinal symptoms and a reduced quality of life in all SF-36 domains. Shortened RR interval correlated with reduced rectal temperature sensitivity, and gastric retention rate was negatively associated with symptoms of nausea and vomiting. To conclude, in these patients with signs and symptoms of diabetic gastroparesis, rectal sensitivity was reduced, and heart rate variability was impaired. Thus, we suggest regarding diabetic autonomic neuropathy as a diffuse disorder. Symptoms of widespread autonomic dysfunction and sensory disorders should be expected and treated in these patients.
An Energy Efficient Simultaneous-Node Repositioning Algorithm for Mobile Sensor Networks
Authors: Khan Muhammad Amir , Hasbullah Halabi , Nazir Babar , Khan Imran Ali
Published: July 2014

Recently, wireless sensor network (WSN) applications have seen an increase in interest. In search and rescue, battlefield reconnaissance, and some other such applications, so that a survey of the area of interest can be made collectively, a set of mobile nodes is deployed. Keeping the network nodes connected is vital for WSNs to be effective. The provision of connectivity can be made at the time of startup and can be maintained by carefully coordinating the nodes when they move. However, if a node suddenly fails, the network could be partitioned to cause communication problems. Recently, several methods that use the relocation of nodes for connectivity restoration have been proposed. However, these methods have the tendency to not consider the potential coverage loss in some locations. This paper addresses the concerns of both connectivity and coverage in an integrated way so that this gap can be filled. A novel algorithm for simultaneous-node repositioning is introduced. In this approach, each neighbour of the failed node, one by one, moves in for a certain amount of time to take the place of the failed node, after which it returns to its original location in the network. The effectiveness of this algorithm has been verified by the simulation results.
BRCA-Associated Ovarian Cancer: From Molecular Genetics to Risk Management
Authors: Girolimetti Giulia , Perrone Anna Myriam , Santini Donatella , Barbieri Elena , Guerra Flora , Ferrari Simona , Zamagni Claudio , De Iaco Pierandrea , Gasparre Giuseppe , Turchetti Daniela
Published: July 2014

Ovarian cancer (OC) mostly arises sporadically, but a fraction of cases are associated with mutations in BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes. The presence of a BRCA mutation in OC patients has been suggested as a prognostic and predictive factor. In addition, the identification of asymptomatic carriers of such mutations offers an unprecedented opportunity for OC prevention. This review is aimed at exploring the current knowledge on epidemiological and molecular aspects of BRCA-associated OC predisposition, on pathology and clinical behavior of OC occurring in BRCA mutation carriers, and on the available options for managing asymptomatic carriers.
Magnetic Fe3O4/Ag Hybrid Nanoparticles as Surface‐Enhanced Raman Scattering Substrate for Trace Analysis of Furazolidone in Fish Feeds
Authors: Yu Wansong , Huang Yiqun , Pei Lu , Fan Yuxia , Wang Xiaohui , Lai Keqiang
Published: July 2014

Nanoparticles (NPs) composed of ferromagnetic and noble metal materials show dual functions of magnetic activity and local surface plasmon response and have great potential as substrates for surface‐enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) in trace analysis. Easy‐to‐prepare superparamagnetic Fe3O4/Ag hybrid NPs were synthesized and optimized by adjusting the ratio of silver particles aggregated with APTMS‐modified Fe3O4 NPs. The hybrid NPs were assembled under an external magnetic field before being used as substrate for SERS analysis. The SERS spectral features of furazolidone standard solution were clearly identified at concentrations as low as 40 ng mL−1, and furazolidone in fish feeds could be detected at 500 ng g−1. The results indicated that the Fe3O4/Ag hybrid NPs as SERS substrates had a great potential for detection of trace amount of furazolidone and other prohibited or restricted antibiotics in the animal and fish feeds.
Increased IL-17, a Pathogenic Link between Hepatosplenic Schistosomiasis and Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis: A Hypothesis
Authors: Moling Oswald , Di Summa Alfonsina , Capone Loredana , Stuefer Josef , Piccin Andrea , Porzia Alessandra , Capozzi Antonella , Sorice Maurizio , Binazzi Raffaella , Gandini Lathá , Rimenti Giovanni , Mian Peter
Published: July 2014

The immune system protects the organism from foreign invaders and foreign substances and is involved in physiological functions that range from tissue repair to neurocognition. However, an excessive or dysregulated immune response can cause immunopathology and disease. A 39-year-old man was affected by severe hepatosplenic schistosomiasismansoniand by amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. One question that arose was, whether there was a relation between the parasitic and the neurodegenerative disease. IL-17, a proinflammatory cytokine, is produced mainly by T helper-17 CD4 cells, a recently discovered new lineage of effector CD4 T cells. Experimental mouse models of schistosomiasis have shown that IL-17 is a key player in the immunopathology of schistosomiasis. There are also reports that suggest that IL-17 might have an important role in the pathogenesis of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. It is hypothesized that the factors that might have led to increased IL-17 in the hepatosplenic schistosomiasismansonimight also have contributed to the development of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis in the described patient. A multitude of environmental factors, including infections, xenobiotic substances, intestinal microbiota, and vitamin D deficiency, that are able to induce a proinflammatory immune response polarization, might favor the development of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis in predisposed individuals.
Distributed Model Predictive Control over Multiple Groups of Vehicles in Highway Intelligent Space for Large Scale System
Authors: Xiaofeng Tang , Feng Gao , Guoyan Xu , Nenggen Ding , Yao Cai , Jian Xing Liu
Published: July 2014

The paper presents the three time warning distances for solving the large scale system of multiple groups of vehicles safety driving characteristics towards highway tunnel environment based on distributed model prediction control approach. Generally speaking, the system includes two parts. First, multiple vehicles are divided into multiple groups. Meanwhile, the distributed model predictive control approach is proposed to calculate the information framework of each group. Each group of optimization performance considers the local optimization and the neighboring subgroup of optimization characteristics, which could ensure the global optimization performance. Second, the three time warning distances are studied based on the basic principles used for highway intelligent space (HIS) and the information framework concept is proposed according to the multiple groups of vehicles. The math model is built to avoid the chain avoidance of vehicles. The results demonstrate that the proposed highway intelligent space method could effectively ensure driving safety of multiple groups of vehicles under the environment of fog, rain, or snow.
Evaluation of Cytotoxic and Antimicrobial Effects of TwoBtCry Proteins on a GMO Safety Perspective
Authors: Farias Davi Felipe , Viana Martônio Ponte , de Oliveira Gustavo Ramos , Beneventi Magda Aparecida , Soares Bruno Marques , Pessoa Claudia , Pessoa Igor Parra , Silva Luciano Paulino , Vasconcelos Ilka Maria , Grossi de Sá Maria Fátima , Carvalho Ana Fontenele Urano
Published: July 2014

Studies have contested the innocuousness ofBacillus thuringiensis (Bt)Cry proteins to mammalian cells as well as to mammals microbiota. Thus, this study aimed to evaluate the cytotoxic and antimicrobial effects of two Cry proteins, Cry8Ka5 (a novel mutant protein) and Cry1Ac (a widely distributed protein in GM crops). Evaluation of cyto- and genotoxicity in human lymphocytes was performed as well as hemolytic activity coupled with cellular membrane topography analysis in mammal erythrocytes. Effects of Cry8Ka5 and Cry1Ac uponArtemiasp. nauplii and upon bacteria and yeast growth were assessed. The toxins caused no significant effects on the viability (IC50>1,000 µg/mL) or to the cellular DNA integrity of lymphocytes (no effects at 1,000 µg/mL). The Cry8Ka5 and Cry1Ac proteins did not cause severe damage to erythrocytes, neither with hemolysis (IC50>1,000 µg/mL) nor with alterations in the membrane. Likewise, the Cry8Ka5 and Cry1Ac proteins presented high LC50(755.11 and >1,000 µg/mL, resp.) on the brine shrimp lethality assay and showed no growth inhibition of the microorganisms tested (MIC>1,000 µg/mL). This study contributed with valuable information on the effects of Cry8Ka5 and Cry1Ac proteins on nontarget organisms, which reinforce their potential for safe biotechnological applications.
A Differential Evolution with Two Mutation Strategies and a Selection Based on an Improved Constraint‐Handling Technique for Bilevel Programming Problems
Authors: Li Hong , Zhang Li
Published: July 2014

Two mutation operators are used in the differential evolution algorithm to improve the diversity of population. An improved constraint‐handling technique based on a comparison mechanism is presented, and then it is combined with the selection operator in the differential evolution algorithm to fulfill constraint handling and selection simultaneously. A differential evolution with two mutation strategies and a selection based on this improved constraint‐handling technique is developed to solve bilevel programming problems. The simulation results on some linear and nonlinear bilevel programming problems show the effectiveness and efficiency of the proposed algorithm.
Performance Evaluation of 14 nm FinFET‐Based 6T SRAM Cell Functionality for DC and Transient Circuit Analysis
Authors: Lim Wei , Chin Huei Chaeng , Lim Cheng Siong , Tan Michael Loong Peng
Published: July 2014

As the technology node size decreases, the number of static random‐access memory (SRAM) cells on a single word line increases. The coupling capacitance will increase with the increase of the load of word line, which reduces the performance of SRAM, more obvious in the SRAM signal delay and the SRAM power usage. The main purpose of this study is to investigate the stability and evaluate the power consumption of a 14 nm gate length FinFET‐based 6T SRAM cell functionality for direct current (DC) and transient circuit analysis, namely, in resistor‐capacitor (RC) delay. In particular, Berkeley Short‐channel IGFET Model‐Common Multigate (BSIM‐CMG) model is utilized. The simulation of the SRAM model is carried out in HSPICE based on 14 nm process technology. A shorted‐gate (SG) mode FinFET is modeled on a silicon on insulator (SOI) substrate. It is tested in terms of functionality and stability. Then, a functional SRAM is simulated with 5 GHz square wave at the input of word line (WL). Ideal square wave and square wave with 100  RC, 5  RC, 1  RC, and 0.5  RC are asserted to the WL and the bit lines (BL&BLB) of SRAM. Voltage at node q and is observed. The simulation shows that 1 RC is the minimum square wave that will store correct value in node q and node . Thus, this discovery from the research can be used as a modeling platform for circuit designers to explore and improve the SRAM tolerance against RC delay.