bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Mitochondrial antioxidative capacity regulates muscle glucose uptake in the conscious mouse: effect of exercise and diet
Authors: Kang Li , Lustig Mary E. , Bonner Jeffrey S. , Lee-Young Robert S. , Mayes Wesley H. , James Freyja D. , Lin Chien-Te , Perry Christopher G. R. , Anderson Ethan J. , Neufer P. Darrell , Wasserman David H.
Published: June 2012

The objective of this study was to test the hypothesis that exercise-stimulated muscle glucose uptake (MGU) is augmented by increasing mitochondrial reactive oxygen species (mtROS) scavenging capacity. This hypothesis was tested in genetically altered mice fed chow or a high-fat (HF) diet that accelerates mtROS formation. Mice overexpressing SOD2 ( sod2Tg), mitochondria-targeted catalase ( mcatTg), and combined SOD2 and mCAT (mtAO) were used to increase mtROS scavenging. mtROS was assessed by the H2O2 emitting potential ( JH2O2) in muscle fibers. sod2Tg did not decrease JH2O2 in chow-fed mice, but decreased JH2O2 in HF-fed mice. mcatTg and mtAO decreased JH2O2 in both chow- and HF-fed mice. In parallel, the ratio of reduced to oxidized glutathione (GSH/GSSG) was unaltered in sod2Tg in chow-fed mice, but was increased in HF-fed sod2Tg and both chow- and HF-fed mcatTg and mtAO. Nitrotyrosine, a marker of NO-dependent, reactive nitrogen species (RNS)-induced nitrative stress, was decreased in both chow- and HF-fed sod2Tg, mcatTg, and mtAO mice. This effect was not changed with exercise. Kg, an index of MGU was assessed using 2-[14C]-deoxyglucose during exercise. In chow-fed mice, sod2Tg, mcatTg, and mtAO increased exercise Kg compared with wild types. Exercise Kg was also augmented in HF-fed sod2Tg and mcatTg mice but unchanged in HF-fed mtAO mice. In conclusion, mtROS scavenging is a key regulator of exercise-mediated MGU and this regulation depends on nutritional state.
Simulation Modeling for Analysis of a (Q, r) Inventory System under Supply Disruption and Customer Differentiation with Partial Backordering
Authors: Azimi Parham , Ghanbari Mohammad Reza , Mohammadi Hasan
Published: June 2012

We have modeled a new (Q, r) inventory system which involves a single product, a supplier, and a retailer with customer differentiation under continuous review inventory policy. The supplier provides the retailer with all requirements, and the retailer sells products to the customers. The supplying process is randomly subject to disruptions. Partial backordering is applied when a stock out occurs, and customer can select either to leave the system without purchasing or to backorder products. The customers are categorized into two main classes regarding to their backordering probabilities. The main contribution of this paper is including the customer differentiation in the inventory model. We used simulation technique to verify the impact of supply disruptions and customer differentiation and carried out sensitivity analysis. To test the performance of the model, we have compared our model to one from the latest related research. As the results show, the average of total annual cost of the (Q, r) inventory system is lower than that of the previously developed models such as (r, T) inventory systems.
Light Combining for Interferometric Switching
Authors: Masi Marco , Mancinelli Mattia , Bettotti Paolo , Pavesi Lorenzo
Published: June 2012

Interferometric switching as a routing method in sequence of coupled optical microresonators is explored. Mach-Zhender interferometry is extended to systems of side-coupled integrated sequences of resonators (SCISSORs) and coupled resonators optical waveguides (CROWs). We generalized Coupled Mode Theory (CMT) to a system of three coupled waveguides. The two bus interferometric switching functions of SCISSOR and CROW resonant structures are investigated. A novel switching device based on three input phase modulation ports is presented. This device displays a wide range of switching behaviors which might lead to new interesting applications.
Inequalities for the Polar Derivative of a Polynomial
Authors: Zireh Ahmad
Published: June 2012

For a polynomial p(z) of degree n, we consider an operator Dα which map a polynomial p(z) into Dαp(z): = (α − z)p′(z) + np(z) with respect to α. It was proved by Liman et al. (2010) that if p(z) has no zeros in |z | < 1, then for all α,   β ∈ ℂ with |α | ≥ 1,    | β | ≤ 1 and |z | = 1, |zDαp(z) + nβ((|α | − 1)/2)p(z)|≤(n/2){[|α + β((|α | − 1)/2)|+|z + β((|α | − 1)/2)|]max|z|=1 | p(z)|−[|α + β((|α | − 1)/2)|−|z + β((|α | − 1)/2)|]min|z|=1 | p(z)|}. In this paper we extend the above inequality for the polynomials having no zeros in |z | < k, where k ≤ 1. Our result generalizes certain well‐known polynomial inequalities.
Natural Orifice Translumenal Endoscopic Surgery in Humans: A Review
Authors: Clark Michelle P. , Qayed Emad S. , Kooby David A. , Maithel Shishir K. , Willingham Field F.
Published: June 2012

Natural orifice translumenal endoscopic surgery (NOTES) had its origins in numerous small animal studies primarily examining safety and feasibility. In human trials, safety and feasibility remain at the forefront; however, additional logistic, practical, and regulatory requirements must be addressed. The purpose of this paper is to evaluate and summarize published studies to date of NOTES in humans. The literature review was performed using PUBMED and MEDLINE databases. Articles published in human populations between 2007 and 2011 were evaluated. A review of this time period resulted in 48 studies describing procedures in 916 patients. Transcolonic and transvesicular procedures were excluded. The most common procedure was cholecystectomy (682, 75%). The most common approach was transvaginal (721, 79%). 424 procedures (46%) were pure NOTES and 491 (54%) were hybrid NOTES cases. 127 (14%) were performed in the United States of America and 789 (86%) were performed internationally. Since 2007, there has been major development in NOTES in human populations. A preponderance of published NOTES procedures were performed internationally. With further development, NOTES may make less invasive surgery available to a larger human population.
A Rare Case of Acute Myocardial Infarction due to Coronary Artery Dissection and Heparin-Induced Thrombocytopenia
Authors: Fradley Michael G. , Drachman Douglas E.
Published: June 2012

Although both coronary artery dissection and heparin-induced thrombocytopenia may provoke myocardial infarction, it is extremely rare for both conditions to develop simultaneously in a single patient. We report a case of a 69-year-old woman who sustained a head-on motor vehicle accident with associated chest trauma. During a subsequent hospitalization, she was exposed to subcutaneous heparin and developed significant thrombocytopenia. Shortly thereafter, she re-presented with an acute myocardial infarction. Coronary angiography revealed a spiral dissection with superimposed thrombosis within the right coronary artery, while laboratory testing confirmed the diagnosis of heparin induced thrombocytopenia. She was treated with catheter-based thrombectomy and adjunctive direct thrombin inhibitor therapy, followed by three months of systemic anticoagulation with warfarin. To our knowledge, this represents the first published case of a native vessel myocardial infarction due to the combination of coronary artery dissection and heparin-induced thrombocytopenia.
Aquaporin-1-Mediated Effects of Low Level He-Ne Laser Irradiation on Human Erythrocytes
Authors: Luo Gang-Yue , Sun Li , Liu Timon Cheng-Yi
Published: June 2012

The role of membrane aquaporin-1 (APQ-1) in the photobiomodulation (PBM) on erythrocyte deformability will be studied in this paper with human dehydrated erythrocytes as echinocytic shape alterations lead to decreased cellular deformability. Human dehydrated erythrocytes were irradiated with low intensity He-Ne laser irradiation (LHNL) at 0.9, 1.8, 2.7, and 4.4 mW/cm2for 5, 15, and 30 min, respectively, and APQ-1 inhibitor, 0.2 μmol/L HgCl2, was used to study the role of APQ-1 in mediating PBM with LHNL at 4.4 mW/cm2for 5 min. Comprehensive morphological parameters of an intact cell such as contact area, perimeter, roundness and erythrocyte elongation index (EEI) were measured to characterize erythrocyte deformability with fast micro multi-channel spectrophotometer. It was observed that the dosage of LHNL improvement of the morphological parameters of dehydrated erythrocytes was morphological-parameter-dependent, but the Bunsen-Roscoe rule did not hold for roundness. The LHNL at 4.4 mW/cm2for 5 min significantly improved the contact area (P<0.05) and EEI (P<0.05) of the dehydrated erythrocytes, but the improvement was significantly inhibited by 0.2 μmol/L HgCl2(P<0.05). It was concluded that AQP-1 might mediate the effects of LHNL on erythrocyte deformability, which supports the membranotropic mechanism of PBM.
Effect of Titanium Substitution on Magnetic Properties and Microstructure of Nanocrystalline Monophase Nd‐Fe‐B Magnets
Authors: Cong Wang , ZhiMeng Guo , YanLi Sui , XiaoQian Bao , ZhiAn Chen
Published: June 2012

Nd12.3Fe81.7−xTixB6.0  (x = 0.5–3.0) ribbons have been prepared by rapid quenching and subsequent annealing treatment. Effect of Ti substitution and annealing treatment on the microstructure, magnetic properties, and crystallization behavior of the ribbons was systematically investigated by the methods of differential scanning calorimeter (DSC), X‐ray diffraction (XRD), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), and vibrating sample magnetometer (VSM). It is found that Ti addition may increase the crystallization temperature and stabilize the amorphous phase. Ti element inhibits the grain growth during crystallization process and finally refines the microstructure. The exchange coupling interactions and magnetic properties of the ribbons increase with increasing x from 0.5 to 1 and then decrease with further increasing x ≥ 1.5. Optimum magnetic properties with (BH) max  = 151.6 kJ/m3, Hci = 809.2 kA/m, Jr = 1.02 T are achieved in the Nd12.3Fe80.7Ti1B6.0 ribbons annealed at 600°C for 10 min.
Positive Solutions for Nonlinear Differential Equations with Periodic Boundary Condition
Authors: Li Shengjun , Liang Li , Xiu Zonghu
Published: June 2012

We study the existence of positive solutions for second‐order nonlinear differential equations with nonseparated boundary conditions. Our nonlinearity may be singular in its dependent variable. The proof of the main result relies on a nonlinear alternative principle of Leray‐Schauder. Recent results in the literature are generalized and significantly improved.
Bilateral Variation in the Origin and Course of the Vertebral Artery
Authors: Sikka Aprajita , Jain Anjali
Published: June 2012

Understanding the great vessels of the aortic arch and their variations is important for both the endovascular interventionist and the diagnostic radiologist. An understanding of the variability of the vertebral artery remains most important in angiography and surgical procedures where an incomplete knowledge of anatomy can lead to serious implications. In the present case, a bilateral variation in the origin and course of vertebral artery was observed. The left vertebral artery took origin from the arch of aorta and entered the foramen transversarium of the fourth cervical vertebra. The right vertebral artery took origin from the right subclavian artery close to its origin and entered the foramen transversarium of the third cervical vertebra. The literature on the variations of the artery is studied and its clinical significance and ontogeny is discussed.
Cognitive Impairment in Heart Failure
Authors: Dardiotis Efthimios , Giamouzis Gregory , Mastrogiannis Dimos , Vogiatzi Christina , Skoularigis John , Triposkiadis Filippos , Hadjigeorgiou Georgios M.
Published: June 2012

Cognitive impairment (CI) is increasingly recognized as a common adverse consequence of heart failure (HF). Although the exact mechanisms remain unclear, microembolism, chronic or intermittent cerebral hypoperfusion, and/or impaired cerebral vessel reactivity that lead to cerebral hypoxia and ischemic brain damage seem to underlie the development of CI in HF. Cognitive decline in HF is characterized by deficits in one or more cognition domains, including attention, memory, executive function, and psychomotor speed. These deficits may affect patients’ decision-making capacity and interfere with their ability to comply with treatment requirements, recognize and self-manage disease worsening symptoms. CI may have fluctuations in severity over time, improve with effective HF treatment or progress to dementia. CI is independently associated with disability, mortality, and decreased quality of life of HF patients. It is essential therefore for health professionals in their routine evaluations of HF patients to become familiar with assessment of cognitive performance using standardized screening instruments. Future studies should focus on elucidating the mechanisms that underlie CI in HF and establishing preventive strategies and treatment approaches.
A New Piezoelectric Actuator Induces Bone FormationIn Vivo: A Preliminary Study
Authors: Reis Joana , Frias Clara , Canto e Castro Carlos , Botelho Maria Luísa , Marques António Torres , Simões José António Oliveira , Capela e Silva Fernando , Potes José
Published: June 2012

Thisin vivostudy presents the preliminary results of the use of a novel piezoelectric actuator for orthopedic application. The innovative use of the converse piezoelectric effect to mechanically stimulate bone was achieved with polyvinylidene fluoride actuators implanted in osteotomy cuts in sheep femur and tibia. The biological response around the osteotomies was assessed through histology and histomorphometry in nondecalcified sections and histochemistry and immunohistochemistry in decalcified sections, namely, through Masson's trichrome, and labeling of osteopontin, proliferating cell nuclear antigen, and tartrate-resistant acid phosphatase. After one-month implantation, total bone area and new bone area were significantly higher around actuators when compared to static controls. Bone deposition rate was also significantly higher in the mechanically stimulated areas. In these areas, osteopontin increased expression was observed. The presentin vivostudy suggests that piezoelectric materials and the converse piezoelectric effect may be used to effectively stimulate bone growth.
The Most Unstable Conditions of Modulation Instability
Authors: Tao Aifeng , Zheng Jinhai , Mee Mee Soe , Chen Botao
Published: June 2012

Modulation instability is one of the most ubiquitous types of instabilities in nature. As one of the key characteristics of modulation instability, the most unstable condition attracts lots of attention. The most unstable condition is investigated here with two kinds of initial wave systems via a numerical high‐order spectral method (HOS) for surface water wave field. Classically, one carrier wave and a pair of sidebands are implied as the first kind of initial wave system: “seeded” wave system. In the second kind of initial wave system: “un‐seeded” wave system, only one carrier wave is implied. Two impressive new results are present. One result shows that the grow rates of lower and upper sideband are different within the “seeded” wave system. It means that, for a given wave steepness, the most unstable lower sideband is not in pair with the most unstable upper sideband. Another result shows the fastest growing sidebands are exactly in pair from “unseeded” wave system. And the most unstable conditions of “unseeded” wave system are more or less the mean value of those derived from the lower sidebands and upper sidebands within the “seeded” wave system.
Existence of Solutions for Sturm‐Liouville Boundary Value Problem of Impulsive Differential Equations
Authors: Sun Hong-Rui , Li Ya-Ning , Nieto Juan J. , Tang Qing
Published: June 2012

This paper is concerned with the existence of solutions for Sturm‐Liouville boundary value problem of a class of second‐order impulsive differential equations, under different assumptions on the nonlinearity and impulsive functions, existence criteria of single and multiple solutions are established. The main tools are variational method and critical point theorems. Some examples are also given to illustrate the main results.
The Patellar Arterial Supply via the Infrapatellar Fat Pad (of Hoffa): A Combined Anatomical and Angiographical Analysis
Authors: Nemschak Gregor , Pretterklieber Michael L.
Published: June 2012

Even though the vascular supply of the human patella has been object of numerous studies until now, none of them has described in detail the rich arterial supply provided via the infrapatellar fat pad (of Hoffa). Therefore, we aimed to complete the knowledge about this interesting and clinically relevant topic. Five human patellae taken from voluntary body donators were studied at the Department of Applied Anatomy of the Medical University of Vienna. One was dissected under the operation microscope, a second was made translucent by Sihlers-solution, and three underwent angiography using a 3D X-ray unit. The results revealed that the patella to a considerable amount is supplied by arteries coursing through the surrounding parts of the infrapatellar fat pad. The latter were found to branch off from the medial and lateral superior and inferior genicular arteries. Within the infrapatellar fat pad, these arteries formed a dense network of anastomoses which are all contributing to the viability of the patellar bone. Due to the rich arterial supply reaching the patella via the infrapatellar fat pad, it seems advisable to preserve the fat pad during surgery of the knee in order to reduce the risk of vascular impairment of the patella.
Stability Analysis of Predator‐Prey System with Fuzzy Impulsive Control
Authors: Wang Yuangan
Published: June 2012

Having attracted much attention in the past few years, predator‐prey system provides a good mathematical model to present the correlation between predators and preys. This paper focuses on the robust stability of Lotka‐Volterra predator‐prey system with the fuzzy impulsive control model, and Takagi‐Sugeno (T‐S) fuzzy impulsive control model as well. Via the T‐S model and the Lyapunov method, the controlling conditions of the asymptotical stability and exponential stability are established. Furthermore, the numerical simulation for the Lotka‐Volterra predator‐prey system with impulsive effects verifies the effectiveness of the proposed methods.
Amniotic Fluid Stem Cells: Future Perspectives
Authors: Rosner Margit , Schipany Katharina , Shanmugasundaram Bharanidharan , Lubec Gert , Hengstschläger Markus
Published: June 2012

The existence of stem cells in human amniotic fluid was reported for the first time almost ten years ago. Since this discovery, the knowledge about these cells has increased dramatically. Today, amniotic fluid stem (AFS) cells are widely accepted as a new powerful tool for basic research as well as for the establishment of new stem-cell-based therapy concepts. It is possible to generate monoclonal genomically stable AFS cell lines harboring high proliferative potential without raising ethical issues. Many different groups have demonstrated that AFS cells can be differentiated into all three germ layer lineages, what is of relevance for both, the scientific and therapeutical usage of these cells. Of special importance for the latter is the fact that AFS cells are less tumorigenic than other pluripotent stem cell types. In this paper, we have summarized the current knowledge about this relatively young scientific field. Furthermore, we discuss the relevant future perspectives of this promising area of stem cell research focusing on the next important questions, which need to be answered.
Traditional Chinese Medicine in Cancer Care: A Review of Case Series Published in the Chinese Literature
Authors: Yang Guoyan , Li Xun , Li Xiaoli , Wang Lu , Li Jia , Song Xue , Chen Jizhong , Guo Yu , Sun Xiaoxuan , Wang Shana , Zhang Zhiqi , Zhou Xiaoyun , Liu Jianping
Published: June 2012

Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) has been widely used in cancer in China. Case series report a series of cases exposed to a certain intervention. To understand the current situation of case series of TCM for cancer, we performed this review. We included case series of cancer patients treated with TCM therapy. Electronic searches were conducted in four main Chinese databases until February 2011. A total of 1,217 reports of case series (92,945 patients) were included. The top five types of cancer were lung cancer, liver cancer, stomach cancer, leukemia, and esophageal cancer. Leukopenia and hiccup treated by TCM were the most common adverse reactions after surgery or induced by chemo/radiotherapy. More than half of the patients were treated with TCM therapies alone. The application of herbal medicines especially formula based on syndrome differentiation was highly prevalent, and the typical administration route was oral usage. 1,182 reports were published in a structured format. The quantity of TCM case series for cancer treatment is substantial. Further studies should focus on the most common types of cancer and the most frequently applied TCM therapies. We presented a recommendation from the methodological point of view for the format of reporting.
Partitioning and Exocytosis of Secretory Granules during Division of PC12 Cells
Authors: Bukoreshtliev Nickolay Vassilev , Hodneland Erlend , Eichler Tilo Wolf , Eifart Patricia , Rustom Amin , Gerdes Hans-Hermann
Published: June 2012

The biogenesis, maturation, and exocytosis of secretory granules in interphase cells have been well documented, whereas the distribution and exocytosis of these hormone-storing organelles during cell division have received little attention. By combining ultrastructural analyses and time-lapse microscopy, we here show that, in dividing PC12 cells, the prominent peripheral localization of secretory granules is retained during prophase but clearly reduced during prometaphase, ending up with only few peripherally localized secretory granules in metaphase cells. During anaphase and telophase, secretory granules exhibited a pronounced movement towards the cell midzone and, evidently, their tracks colocalized with spindle microtubules. During cytokinesis, secretory granules were excluded from the midbody and accumulated at the bases of the intercellular bridge. Furthermore, by measuring exocytosis at the single granule level, we showed, that during all stages of cell division, secretory granules were competent for regulated exocytosis. In conclusion, our data shed new light on the complex molecular machinery of secretory granule redistribution during cell division, which facilitates their release from the F-actin-rich cortex and active transport along spindle microtubules.
Raman Spectroscopy for Homeland Security Applications
Authors: Mogilevsky Gregory , Borland Laura , Brickhouse Mark , Fountain III Augustus W.
Published: June 2012

Raman spectroscopy is an analytical technique with vast applications in the homeland security and defense arenas. The Raman effect is defined by the inelastic interaction of the incident laser with the analyte molecule’s vibrational modes, which can be exploited to detect and identify chemicals in various environments and for the detection of hazards in the field, at checkpoints, or in a forensic laboratory with no contact with the substance. A major source of error that overwhelms the Raman signal is fluorescence caused by the background and the sample matrix. Novel methods are being developed to enhance the Raman signal’s sensitivity and to reduce the effects of fluorescence by altering how the hazard material interacts with its environment and the incident laser. Basic Raman techniques applicable to homeland security applications include conventional (off-resonance) Raman spectroscopy, surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy (SERS), resonance Raman spectroscopy, and spatially or temporally offset Raman spectroscopy (SORS and TORS). Additional emerging Raman techniques, including remote Raman detection, Raman imaging, and Heterodyne imaging, are being developed to further enhance the Raman signal, mitigate fluorescence effects, and monitor hazards at a distance for use in homeland security and defense applications.
Lessons from Tau-Deficient Mice
Authors: Ke Yazi D. , Suchowerska Alexandra K. , van der Hoven Julia , De Silva Dineeka M. , Wu Christopher W. , van Eersel Janet , Ittner Arne , Ittner Lars M.
Published: June 2012

Both Alzheimer's disease (AD) and frontotemporal dementia (FTD) are characterized by the deposition of hyperphosphorylated forms of the microtubule-associated protein tau in neurons and/or glia. This unifying pathology led to the umbrella term “tauopathies” for these conditions, also emphasizing the central role of tau in AD and FTD. Generation of transgenic mouse models expressing human tau in the brain has contributed to the understanding of the pathomechanistic role of tau in disease. To reveal the physiological functions of tauin vivo, several knockout mouse strains with deletion of the tau-encodingMAPTgene have been established over the past decade, using different gene targeting constructs. Surprisingly, when initially introduced tau knockout mice presented with no overt phenotype or malformations. The number of publications using tau knockout mice has recently markedly increased, and both behavioural changes and motor deficits have been identified in aged mice of certain strains. Moreover, tau knockout mice have been instrumental in identifying novel functions of tau, both in cultured neurons andin vivo. Importantly, tau knockout mice have significantly contributed to the understanding of the pathophysiological interplay between Aβand tau in AD. Here, we review the literature that involves tau knockout mice to summarize what we have learned so far from depleting tauin vivo.
Failure of Supervised Chloroquine and Primaquine Regimen for the Treatment ofPlasmodium vivaxin the Peruvian Amazon
Authors: Graf Paul C. F. , Durand Salomon , Alvarez Antonio Carlos , Montalvan Carmen , Galves Montoya Mariella , Green Michael D. , Santolalla Meddly L. , Salas Carola , Lucas Carmen , Bacon David J. , Fryauff David J.
Published: June 2012

The widespread use of primaquine (PQ) and chloroquine (CQ), together, may be responsible for the relatively few, isolated cases of chloroquine-resistantP. vivax(CQRPV) that have been reported from South America. We report here a case ofP. vivaxfrom the Amazon Basin of Peru that recurred against normally therapeutic blood levels of CQ. Four out of 540 patients treated with combination CQ and PQ had a symptomatic recurrence ofP. vivaxparasitemia within 35 days of treatment initiation, possibly indicating CQ failure. Whole blood total CQ level for one of these four subjects was 95 ng/ml on the day of recurrence. Based on published criteria that delineate CQRPV as aP. vivaxparasitemia, either recrudescence or relapse, that appears against CQ blood levels >100 ng/mL, we document the occurrence of aP. vivaxstrain in Peru that had unusually high tolerance to the synergistic combination therapy of CQ + PQ that normally works quite well.
On a Quasi‐Neutral Approximation to the Incompressible Euler Equations
Authors: Yang Jianwei , Zhuang Zhitao
Published: June 2012

We rigorously justify a singular Euler‐Poisson approximation of the incompressible Euler equations in the quasi‐neutral regime for plasma physics. Using the modulated energy estimates, the rate convergence of Euler‐Poisson systems to the incompressible Euler equations is obtained.
Interlayer Structure of Bioactive Molecule, 2‐Aminoethanesulfonate, Intercalated into Calcium‐Containing Layered Double Hydroxides
Authors: Kim Tae-Hyun , Kim Hyoung Jun , Oh Jae-Min
Published: June 2012

We have successfully intercalated 2‐aminoethanesulfonate, a well‐known biomolecule taurine, into calcium‐containing layered double hydroxides via optimized solid phase intercalation. According to X‐ray diffraction patterns and infrared spectroscopy, it was revealed that the intercalated taurine molecules were each directly coordinated to other calcium cation and arranged in a zig‐zag pattern. Scanning electron microscopy showed that the particle size and morphology of the LDHs were not affected by the solid phase intercalation, and the surface of intercalates was covered by organic moieties. From ninhydrin amine detection tests, we confirmed that most of the taurine molecules were well stabilized between the calcium‐containing LDH layers.
Synthesis and Antimicrobial Evaluation of Some Novel Trisubstituted s‐Triazine Derivatives Based on Isatinimino, Sulphonamido, and Azacarbazole
Authors: Jain Sonika , Sharma Anamika , Agrawal Meenakshi , Sharma Swapnil , Dwivedi Jaya , Kishore D.
Published: June 2012

A study directed towards exploring the temperature‐dependent reactivity of the chlorine atoms of 2,4,6‐trichloro‐s‐triazine (TCT) in the nucleophilic displacement reaction, allowed a facile replacement of its chlorine atoms in succession with (i) N‐amino methyl substituted isatin‐3‐hydrazones, (ii) N1‐substituted‐4‐amino benzene sulphonamides, and (iii) 8‐amino‐4‐oxo‐N‐benzyl‐azacarbazole to produce the corresponding 2,4,6‐trisubstituted‐s‐triazine, namely; 2‐(N‐amino methyl substituted isatin‐3‐hydrazinyl)‐4‐(N1‐substituted‐4′‐amino benzenesulfonamidyl)‐6‐(8′‐amino‐4′‐oxo‐N‐benzylazacarbazolyl)‐1,3,5‐triazine derivatives in acceptable yields. The compounds prepared were further evaluated for their antibacterial activity against E. coli and B. subtilis and antifungal activities against A. niger and A. flavus, and some of them showed promising activity profile.
Assessment of Physical Stability and Antioxidant Activity of Polysiloxane Polyalkyl Polyether Copolymer‐Based Creams
Authors: Ali Atif , Akhtar Naveed , Khan Haji Muhammad Shoaib
Published: June 2012

The purpose of the present work was to investigate the changes on physical stability (color, creaming, liquefaction, pH, conductivity, centrifugation, viscosity and rheological parameters) by non‐ionic surfactant polysiloxane polyalkyl polyether copolymer based creams following inclusion of plant extract containing phenolic compounds. The antioxidant activity of the plant extract alone and after addition in the cream was assessed using the stable free radical 1,1‐diphenyl‐2‐picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) assay. Physical stability was assessed by submitting the creams to storage at 8°C, 25°C, 40°C, and at 40°C with 70% RH (relative humidity) for a period of two months. Physical characteristics of polysiloxane polyalkyl polyether copolymer based creams, that is, color, creaming, liquefaction, centrifugation and pH were noted at various intervals for 2 months. The viscosities and rheological behavior of creams were determined using a rotational rheometer. Data were analyzed by using Brookfield Software Rheocalc version (2.6) with IPC Paste and Power Law (PL) math models. Cream with plant extract showed pseudo plastic behaviour with decreasing on viscosity. The Acacia nilotica (AN) extract alone and the cream containing this extract showed great antioxidant and free radical scavenging activities. Power Law and IPC analysis were found to fit all the rheograms.
Stent Thrombosis With Everolimus-Eluting Stents
Authors: Palmerini Tullio , Kirtane Ajay J. , Serruys Patrick W. , Smits Pieter C. , Kedhi Elvin , Kereiakes Dean , Sangiorgi Diego , Reggiani Letizia Bacchi , Kaiser Christoph , Kim Hyo-Soo , De Waha Antoinette , Ribichini Flavio , Stone Gregg W.
Published: June 2012

Background—

Some but not all studies have reported reduced rates of stent thrombosis (ST) with everolimus-eluting stents (EES) compared with other drug-eluting stents (DES). All of these studies were insufficiently powered to reliably detect differences in ST. We therefore performed a meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials comparing the risk of 2-year definite ST between EES and other DES.

Methods and Results—

Randomized controlled trials comparing EES versus other DES were searched through MEDLINE, EMBASE, Cochrane databases, and proceedings of international meetings. Information on study design, inclusion and exclusion criteria, sample characteristics, and clinical outcomes was extracted. Eleven randomized controlled trials (16 775 patients) were analyzed, including 5 trials (n=7113) of EES versus paclitaxel-eluting stents, 5 trials (n=7370) of EES versus sirolimus-eluting stents, and 1 trial (n=2292) of EES versus zotarolimus-eluting stents. By 2 years definite ST with EES compared with pooled DES occurred in 0.5% versus 1.3% patients, respectively (relative risk, 0.38; 95% CI, 0.24–0.59;
P
<0.0001). Similar results were observed when the broader definition of definite/probable ST was considered (relative risk, 0.46; 95% CI, 0.33–0.66;
P
<0.0001). EES compared with other DES reduced the relative risk of early ST (within 30 days), late ST (31 days to 1 year), cumulative 1-year ST, and very late ST (1–2 years). The reduced rate of definite ST observed with EES was consistent across all DES comparators with no interactions apparent during any time interval.

Conclusions—

EES compared with a pooled group of paclitaxel-eluting stents, sirolimus-eluting stents, and zotarolimus-eluting stents is associated with a significant reduction of definite ST, an effect that appears early and increases in magnitude through at least 2 years.
APEX1 Regulation of Aldosterone Synthase Gene Transcription Is Disrupted by a Common Polymorphism in Humans
Authors: McManus Frances , Sands William , Diver Louise , MacKenzie Scott M. , Fraser Robert , Davies Eleanor , Connell John M.
Published: June 2012

Rationale:

The genetic mechanisms underlying hypertension are unclear, but relative aldosterone excess, present in ≈10% of hypertensive patients, is known to be a heritable trait. This phenotype associates with a T/C single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) at position -344 of the aldosterone synthase gene (
CYP11B2
). However, deletion of this SNP has no effect on gene transcription. We have identified another T/C SNP at -1651, in tight linkage disequilibrium with the -344 SNP and here investigate its functional effect on
CYP11B2
transcription.

Objective:

We assessed the effect on transcriptional activity of the -1651 T/C SNP in vivo and in vitro and propose the mechanism by which transcriptional activity is altered.

Methods and Results:

We demonstrated that the SNP at -1651 exerts significant allele-dependent effects on
CYP11B2
transcription. We confirm binding of the transcriptional repressor APEX1 to -1651T, which is associated with reduced transcriptional activity in relation to the less strongly bound -1651C. We show that inhibiting APEX1 by small molecule inhibition or small interfering RNA (SiRNA) leads to increased
CYP11B2
transcription. In addition, overexpression of APEX1 is associated with reduced transcriptional activity. Finally, we also show that -1651T associates with lower excretion rates of aldosterone metabolites in human subjects.

Conclusions:

We conclude that APEX1 is a novel transcriptional repressor of
CYP11B2
and that differential APEX1 binding at -1651 of
CYP11B2
results in altered gene expression. This mechanism may contribute to the observed relationship between
CYP11B2
genotype and aldosterone phenotype in a subgroup of hypertensive patients.
Tornadic Supercell Environments Analyzed Using Surface and Reanalysis Data: A Spatiotemporal Relational Data-Mining Approach
Authors: Gagne David John , McGovern Amy , Basara Jeffrey B. , Brown Rodger A.
Published: June 2012

Oklahoma Mesonet surface data and North American Regional Reanalysis data were integrated with the tracks of over 900 tornadic and nontornadic supercell thunderstorms in Oklahoma from 1994 to 2003 to observe the evolution of near-storm environments with data currently available to operational forecasters. These data are used to train a complex data-mining algorithm that can analyze the variability of meteorological data in both space and time and produce a probabilistic prediction of tornadogenesis given variables describing the near-storm environment. The algorithm was assessed for utility in four ways. First, its probability forecasts were scored. The algorithm did produce some useful skill in discriminating between tornadic and nontornadic supercells as well as in producing reliable probabilities. Second, its selection of relevant attributes was assessed for physical significance. Surface thermodynamic parameters, instability, and bulk wind shear were among the most significant attributes. Third, the algorithm’s skill was compared with the skill of single variables commonly used for tornado prediction. The algorithm did noticeably outperform all of the single variables, including composite parameters. Fourth, the situational variations of the predictions from the algorithm were shown in case studies. They revealed instances both in which the algorithm excelled and in which the algorithm was limited.
Interannual Tropospheric Aerosol Variability in the Late Twentieth Century and Its Impact on Tropical Atlantic and West African Climate by Direct and Semidirect Effects
Authors: Mahajan Salil , Evans Katherine J. , Truesdale John E. , Hack James J. , Lamarque Jean-François
Published: June 2012

A new high-resolution global tropospheric aerosol dataset with monthly resolution is generated using version 4 of the Community Atmosphere Model (CAM4) coupled to a bulk aerosol model and forced with recent estimates of surface emissions for the period 1961–2000 to identify tropospheric aerosol-induced interannual climate variations. The surface emissions dataset is constructed from phase 5 of the Coupled Model Intercomparison Project (CMIP5) decadal-resolution surface emissions dataset to include reanalysis of tropospheric chemical composition [40-yr Reanalysis of Tropospheric Chemical Composition (RETRO)] wildfire monthly emissions data. A four-member ensemble run is conducted using the spectral configuration of CAM4, forced with the new tropospheric aerosol dataset and prescribed with observed sea surface temperature, sea ice, and greenhouse gases. CAM4 only simulates the direct and semidirect effects of aerosols on the climate. The simulations reveal that variations in tropospheric aerosol levels can induce significant regional climate variability on the interannual time scales. Regression analyses over tropical Atlantic and Africa suggest that increasing dust aerosols can cool the North African landmass and shift convection southward from West Africa into the Gulf of Guinea in the spring season. Further, it is found that carbonaceous aerosols emanating from the southwestern African savannas can significantly cool the region and increase the marine stratocumulus cloud cover over the southeast tropical Atlantic Ocean by aerosol-induced diabatic heating of the free troposphere above the low clouds. Experiments conducted with CAM4 coupled to a slab ocean model suggest that present-day aerosols can cool the tropical North Atlantic and shift the intertropical convergence zone southward and can reduce the ocean mixed layer temperature beneath the increased marine stratocumulus clouds in the southeastern tropical Atlantic.
Comparison between Dual-Doppler and EnKF Storm-Scale Wind Analyses: Observing System Simulation Experiments with a Supercell Thunderstorm
Authors: Potvin Corey K. , Wicker Louis J.
Published: June 2012

Kinematical analyses of mobile radar observations are critical to advancing the understanding of supercell thunderstorms. Maximizing the accuracy of these and subsequent dynamical analyses, and appropriately characterizing the uncertainty in ensuing conclusions about storm structure and processes, requires thorough knowledge of the typical errors obtained using different retrieval techniques. This study adopts an observing system simulation experiment (OSSE) framework to explore the errors obtained from ensemble Kalman filter (EnKF) assimilation versus dual-Doppler analysis (DDA) of storm-scale mobile radar data. The radar characteristics and EnKF model errors are varied to explore a range of plausible scenarios.

When dual-radar data are assimilated, the EnKF produces substantially better wind retrievals at higher altitudes, where DDAs are more sensitive to unaccounted flow evolution, and in data-sparse regions such as the storm inflow sector. Near the ground, however, the EnKF analyses are comparable to the DDAs when the radar cross-beam angles (CBAs) are poor, and slightly worse than the DDAs when the CBAs are optimal. In the single-radar case, the wind analyses benefit substantially from using finer grid spacing than in the dual-radar case for the objective analysis of radar observations. The analyses generally degrade when only single-radar data are assimilated, particularly when microphysical parameterization or low-level environmental wind errors are introduced. In some instances, this leads to large errors in low-level vorticity stretching and Lagrangian circulation calculations. Nevertheless, the results show that while multiradar observations of supercells are always preferable, judicious use of single-radar EnKF assimilation can yield useful analyses.
Introduction: World state futures
Authors: Albert Mathias , Harste Gorm , Patomäki Heikki , Jørgensen Knud Erik
Published: June 2012

In some contrast to the traditional and ongoing normative discussions about the desirability of a world state, new and more explicitly geo-historical questions about world political integration are being posed, especially (i) whether elements of world statehood are in existence already, (ii) whether a world state is in some sense inevitable, and (iii) whether, and under what conditions, a world state would be sustainable? For instance, the existing and emerging structures of global governance, of a global public sphere and global constitutionalism can be argued to converge to form at least nascent forms of world statehood. Building on and complementing such diagnoses of existing forms of world statehood, the question arises about whether there are possible and likely, or even inevitable, futures in which the emergence of more ‘thick’ forms of a world state, understood as a more tightly and substantially integrated expression of political community, could evolve. This possibility raises further questions about the legitimacy, viability and sustainability of such a state form. After a brief overview of these issues, the Introduction provides a preview of the following contributions of this special issue as well as the distinction between the ‘global’ and the ‘world’ as one possible future research trajectory in the present context.
Federal world government: The road to peace and justice?
Authors: Tinnevelt Ronald
Published: June 2012

Within contemporary legal and political philosophy there is nothing more unpopular than defending a world state. It seems food for thought for writers like Huxley or Wells, but not a topic that deserves serious philosophical reflection. Fortunately, there are exceptions to this general rule. Theorists such as Höffe, Cabrera, Deudney and Yunker defend a version of a multilayered minimal world state – a model based on the dual principles of federalism and subsidiarity. The focus of this article is on the very fragile balance that proponents of this model have to keep between a simultaneous need for centralization and decentralization. On the basis of a critical analysis of the work of these theorists, it is argued in this article that the safeguards these authors defend to prevent a bloating of government themselves contain a tendency to hierarchical centralization. While some form of world state might be necessary to cope with the challenges posed by globalization, it is essential to discuss the shape and competences of the world state much more critically and in more detail than has been the case in the past.
The Theoretical and Empirical Basis for Meditation as an Intervention for PTSD
Authors: Lang Ariel J. , Strauss Jennifer L. , Bomyea Jessica , Bormann Jill E. , Hickman Steven D. , Good Raquel C. , Essex Michael
Published: June 2012

In spite of the existence of good empirically supported treatments for posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), consumers and providers continue to ask for more options for managing this common and often chronic condition. Meditation-based approaches are being widely implemented, but there is minimal research rigorously assessing their effectiveness. This article reviews meditation as an intervention for PTSD, considering three major types of meditative practices: mindfulness, mantra, and compassion meditation. The mechanisms by which these approaches may effectively reduce PTSD symptoms and improve quality of life are presented. Empirical evidence of the efficacy of meditation for PTSD is very limited but holds some promise. Additional evaluation of meditation-based treatment appears to be warranted.
Social Capital and Self-Rated Health Among Older Korean Immigrants
Authors: Kim Bum Jung , Harris Lesley Maradik
Published: June 2012

Purpose of the Study:

The objective of this article is to investigate determinants of self-rated health and describe their association with social capital and socioeconomic characteristics among older Korean immigrants.

Method:

A cross-sectional study of 205 older Korean immigrants (aged 60 years and older) was conducted in Los Angeles county. Independent variables included age, gender, marital status, income of the older Koreans, and social capital included social norms, trust, partnership with the community, information sharing, and political participation. Self-rated health was the dependent variable.

Results:

Descriptive analyses were done to show group differences in self-rated health and logistic regression analyses to identify determinants of self-rated health. Gender (male), high income, and high levels of information sharing were significant determinants of high self-rated health status among older Korean immigrants.

Implications:

This population-based study provides empirical evidence that gender, income, and information sharing are directly associated with the self-rated health status of older Korean immigrants.
‘There is loads of relationships here’: Developing a programme theory for sport-for-change programmes
Authors: Coalter Fred
Published: June 2012

This article reports on research on the effectiveness of sports-based interventions that sought to address issues of gang membership, racism, at-risk youth and a rather ill-defined notion of ‘conflict’. The article illustrates the varying centrality of sport in such programmes, reports on a series of in-depth interviews with participants in four programmes, exploring the nature of their experiences and perceptions of the programme elements that had the greatest impact on their values, attitudes and behaviour. The analysis draws on a number of programme theories about how such programmes might work and emphasises the centrality of social relationships between leaders and participants and the development of respect, trust and reciprocity as a basis for potential attitude and behaviour change. The interview data and previous research are used to develop an indicative programme theory which illustrates that, where change occurs, it is most likely to occur via systems of social relationships most characteristic of sport-plus programmes.