bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Perforation Peritonitis and the Developing World
Authors: Bali Rajandeep Singh , Verma Sushant , Agarwal P. N. , Singh Rajdeep , Talwar Nikhil
Published: April 2014

Background. Perforation peritonitis is the one of the commonest emergency encountered by surgeons. The aim of this paper is to provide an overview of the spectrum of perforation peritonitis managed in a single unit of a tertiary care hospital in Delhi. Methods. A retrospective study was carried out between May 2010 and June 2013 in a single unit of the department of Surgery, Lok Nayak Hospital, Delhi. It included 400 patients of perforation peritonitis (diffuse or localized) who were studied retrospectively in terms of cause, site of perforation, surgical treatment, complications, and mortality. Only those patients who underwent exploratory laparotomy for management of perforation peritonitis were included. Results. The commonest cause of perforation peritonitis included 179 cases of peptic ulcer disease (150 duodenal ulcers and 29 gastric ulcers) followed by appendicitis (74 cases), typhoid fever (48 cases), tuberculosis (40 cases), and trauma (31). The overall mortality was 7%. Conclusions. Perforation peritonitis in India has a different spectrum as compared to the western countries. Peptic ulcer perforation, perforating appendicitis, typhoid, and tubercular perforations are the major causes of gastrointestinal perforations. Early surgical intervention under the cover of broad spectrum antibiotics preceded by adequate aggressive resuscitation and correction of electrolyte imbalances is imperative for good outcomes minimizing morbidity and mortality.
The Structure ofφ-Module Amenable Banach Algebras
Authors: Bami Mahmood Lashkarizadeh , Valaei Mohammad , Amini Massoud
Published: April 2014

We study the concept ofφ-module amenability of Banach algebras, which are Banach modules over another Banach algebra with compatible actions. Also, we compare the notions ofφ-amenability andφ-module amenability of Banach algebras. As a consequence, we show that, ifSis an inverse semigroup with finite setEof idempotents andl1Sis a commutative Banachl1E-module, thenl1S**isφ**-module amenable if and only ifSis finite, whenφ∈Homl1El1Sis an epimorphism. Indeed, we have generalized a well-known result due to Ghahramani et al. (1996).
A NewS4Flavor Symmetry in 3-3-1 Model with Neutral Fermions
Authors: Vien V. V. , Long H. N.
Published: April 2014

A newS4flavor model based onSU(3)C⊗SU(3)L⊗U(1)Xgauge symmetry responsible for fermion masses and mixings is constructed. The neutrinos get small masses from only an antisextet ofSU(3)Lwhich is in a doublet underS4. In this work, we assume the VEVs of the antisextet differ from each other underS4and the difference of these VEVs is regarded as a small perturbation, and then the model can fit the experimental data on neutrino masses and mixings. Our results show that the neutrino masses are naturally small and a deviation from the tribimaximal neutrino mixing form can be realized. The quark masses and mixing matrix are also discussed. The number of required Higgs multiplets is less and the scalar potential of the model is simpler than those of the model based onS3and our previousS4model. The assignation of VEVs to antisextet leads to the mixing of the new gauge bosons and those in the standard model. The mixing in the charged gauge bosons as well as the neutral gauge bosons is considered.
Periconception Weight Loss: Common Sense for Mothers, but What about for Babies?
Authors: Matusiak Kristine , Barrett Helen L. , Callaway Leonie K. , Nitert Marloes Dekker
Published: April 2014

Obesity in the childbearing population is increasingly common. Obesity is associated with increased risk for a number of maternal and neonatal pregnancy complications. Some of these complications, such as gestational diabetes, are risk factors for long-term disease in both mother and baby. While clinical practice guidelines advocate for healthy weight prior to pregnancy, there is not a clear directive for achieving healthy weight before conception. There are known benefits to even moderate weight loss prior to pregnancy, but there are potential adverse effects of restricted nutrition during the periconceptional period. Epidemiological and animal studies point to differences in offspring conceived during a time of maternal nutritional restriction. These include changes in hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis function, body composition, glucose metabolism, and cardiovascular function. The periconceptional period is therefore believed to play an important role in programming offspring physiological function and is sensitive to nutritional insult. This review summarizes the evidence to date for offspring programming as a result of maternal periconception weight loss. Further research is needed in humans to clearly identify benefits and potential risks of losing weight in the months before conceiving. This may then inform us of clinical practice guidelines for optimal approaches to achieving a healthy weight before pregnancy.
Stability Analysis of a Linear Friction-Induced Vibration Model and Its Prevention Using Active Force Control
Authors: Hashemi-Dehkordi S. M. , Abu-Bakar A. R. , Mailah M.
Published: April 2014

This paper presents friction-induced vibration (FIV) caused by combined mode-coupling and negative damping effects in a simple FIV model. In doing so, a new four-degree-of-freedom linear model which consists of a slider and a block is proposed and then simulated using MATLAB/Simulink. Stability or instability of the FIV model is defined by the convergence or divergence of time domain responses of the slider and the block. Having found critical slope of friction-velocity characteristics that generate instabilities in the model, a conventional closed loop proportional-integral-derivative (PID) controller is first introduced into the main model in order to attenuate the vibration level and subsequently to suppress it. Later, the model is integrated with the active force control (AFC) element to effectively reject the disturbance and reduce the vibrations. It is found that the integrated PID-AFC scheme is effective in reducing vibration compared to the pure PID controller alone. Thus, the proposed control scheme can be one of the potential solutions to suppress vibration in a friction-induced vibration system.
The Comparison of Tree-Sibling Time Consistent Phylogenetic Networks Is Graph Isomorphism-Complete
Authors: Cardona Gabriel , Llabrés Mercè , Rosselló Francesc , Valiente Gabriel
Published: April 2014

Several polynomial time computable metrics on the class of semibinary tree-sibling time consistent phylogenetic networks are available in the literature; in particular, the problem of deciding if two networks of this kind are isomorphic is in P. In this paper, we show that if we remove the semibinarity condition, then the problem becomes much harder. More precisely, we prove that the isomorphism problem for generic tree-sibling time consistent phylogenetic networks is polynomially equivalent to the graph isomorphism problem. Since the latter is believed not to belong to P, the chances are that it is impossible to define a metric on the class of all tree-sibling time consistent phylogenetic networks that can be computed in polynomial time.
Magnesium Lithospermate B, an Active Extract ofSalvia miltiorrhiza, Mediates sGC/cGMP/PKG Translocation in Experimental Vasospasm
Authors: Chang Chih-Zen , Wu Shu-Chuan , Kwan Aij-Lie
Published: April 2014

Background. Soluble guanylyl cyclases (sGCs) and Ras homolog gene family, member A (rhoA)/Ras homolog gene family kinase(rho-kinase) plays a role in vascular smooth muscle relaxation in subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH). It is of interest to examine the effect of MLB on rhoA/ROCK and sGC/cGMP/PKG expression.Methods. A rodent SAH model was employed. Tissue samples were for sGCα1, sGCβ1, PKG, rhoA, ROCK (Western blot), and cGMP (ELISA) measurement.Results. MLB morphologically improved convolution of the internal elastic lamina, distortion of endothelial wall, and necrosis of the smooth muscle in the SAH rats. Expressed cGMP, sGCα1, sGCβ1, and PKG in the SAH groups were reduced (P<0.01), and MLB precondition significantly induced cGMP, sGCα1, sGCβ1, and PKG. L-NAME reversed the vasodilation effect of MLB, reduced the bioexpression of PKG and cGMP (P<0.01), and tends to reduce sGCα1 level and induce rhoA, ROCK level in MLB precondition + SAH groups.Conclusion. These results demonstrate that sGC/cGMP/PKG and NO/ET pathways play pivotal roles in SAH-induced vasospasm. Through activating sGC/cGMP/PKG pathway and partially by inactivating rho-kinase in a NO-dependent mechanism, MLB shows promise to be an effective strategy for the treatment of this disease entity.
Gastric Decompression Decreases Postoperative Nausea and Vomiting in ENT Surgery
Authors: Erkalp Kerem , Kalekoglu Erkalp Nuran , Sevdi M. Salih , Korkut A. Yasemin , Yeter Hacer , Ege Sertuğ Sinan , Alagol Aysin , Erden Veysel
Published: April 2014

There is a passive blood flow to the stomach during oral and nasal surgery. It may cause postoperative nausea and vomiting (PONV). We researched the relationship between gastric decompression (GD) and severity of PONV in ear, nose, and throat (ENT) surgery. 137 patients who have been into ENT surgery were included in the study. In Group I (n=70), patients received GD after surgery before extubation; patients in Group II (n=67) did not receive GD. In postoperative 2nd, 4th, 8th, and 12th hours, the number and ratio of patients demonstrating PONV were detected to be significantly more in Group II as compared to Group I. PONV was also significantly more severe in Group II as compared to Group I. In Group I, the PONV ratio in the 2nd hour was significantly more for those whose amounts of stomach content aspired were more than 10 mL as compared to those whose stomach content aspired was less than 10 mL. In the 4th, 8th, and 24th hours, there is no statistically significant difference between the stomach content aspired and PONV ratio. GD reduces the incidence and severity of PONV in ENT surgery.
A CV Study of Copper Complexation with Guanine Using Glassy Carbon Electrode in Aqueous Medium
Authors: Rana Md. Sohel , Rahman Mohammad Arifur , Alam A. M. Shafiqul
Published: April 2014

Voltammetric behaviors of Copper (II) nitrogen bearing nucleobases, such as Guanine (C5H4N5O2) was studied in electro analyzer using cyclic voltammetry (CV) on a Glassy Carbon Electrode. Assessment of the chemical and physical conditions that may favor optimum current enhancement was done by studying the effect of variation of concentration of metal and ligand ions, variation of scan rate, variation of step height, variation of pH values, and variation of supporting electrolyte as (NH4)2SO4, KCl, and NaCl. It was observed that Copper and Guanine forms a 1 : 2 ratio complex. The work reflects that increasing the concentration of either metal ion or ligand ion increases the corresponding current. Increasing the scan rate increases the corresponding current linearly with the square root of the scan rate. As the step height decreases the peaks become sharp. Anodic and cathodic current increases linearly with decreasing step height. For the complex mixture the complexation occurs maximum at a pH of 2.3–7.0 and is badly restricted in the slightly alkaline medium and the complexing order of the supporting electrolyte showed a trend as (NH4)2SO4>NaCl>KCl.
Enhancing the Supersonic Wind Tunnel Performance Based on Plenum Temperature Control
Authors: Nazarian Shahrbabaki A. , Bazazzadeh M. , Shahriari A. , Dehghan Manshadi M.
Published: April 2014

The application of fuzzy logic controllers (FLCs) to the control of nonlinear processes, typically controlled by a human operator, is a topic of much study. In this paper, the design and application of a FLC is discussed to control the plenum chamber temperature for a blowdown supersonic wind tunnel (BSWT) with the aim of achieving the accurate and desired results. In this regard, first, a nonlinear mathematical model of special BSWT is developed in Matlab/Simulink software environment. Next, an artificially intelligent controller is designed using fuzzy logic approach. For this purpose, a proportional-derivative FLC (PD-FLC) system is developed in the Simulink toolbox to control the plenum stagnation temperature using a heater upstream of the plenum chamber. Finally, the system simulation results inside of the temperature and pressure controllers in comparison with the experimental run are presented. The results for Mach 2.5 blowdown run show the great performance of the Wind Tunnel Simulator Model and its temperature controller system.
Assessing the Effectiveness of Tuberculosis Management in Brushtail Possums (Trichosurus vulpecula), through Indirect Surveillance ofMycobacterium bovisInfection Using Released Sentinel Pigs
Authors: Nugent G. , Yockney I. J. , Whitford E. J. , Cross M. L.
Published: April 2014

In New Zealand, wild pigs acquireMycobacterium bovisinfection by scavenging tuberculous carrion, primarily carcasses of the main disease maintenance host, the brushtail possum (Trichosurus vulpecula). We investigated the utility of captive-reared, purpose-released pigs as sentinels for tuberculosis (TB) following lethal possum control and subsequent population recovery. Within 2-3 years of possum control by intensive poisoning, TB prevalence and the incidence rate ofM. bovisinfection in released sentinel pigs were lower than in an adjacent area where possums had not been poisoned. Unexpectedly, TB did not decline to near zero levels among pigs in the poisoned area, a fact which reflected an unanticipated rapid increase in the apparent abundance of possums. Monitoring infection levels among resident wild pigs confirmed that TB prevalence, while reduced due to possum control, persisted in the poisoned area at >20% among pigs born 2-3 years after poisoning, while remaining >60% among resident wild pigs in the nonpoisoned area. When fitted with radio-tracking devices, purpose-released pigs provided precise spatial TB surveillance information and facilitated effective killing of wild pigs when employed as “Judas” animals to help locate residents. Sentinel pigs offer value for monitoring disease trends in New Zealand, as TB levels in possums decline nationally due to large-scale possum control.
Inhibitory Effects of Edaravone inβ-Amyloid-Induced Neurotoxicity in Rats
Authors: He Feng , Cao Yan-Ping , Che Feng-Yuan , Yang Lian-Hong , Xiao Song-Hua , Liu Jun
Published: April 2014

Amyloid protein can damage nerve cells through a variety of biological mechanisms including oxidative stress, alterations in calcium homeostasis, and proapoptosis. Edaravone, a potent free radical scavenger possessing antioxidant effects, has been proved neuroprotective effect in stroke patients. The current study aimed to investigate the effects of EDA in an Aβ-induced rat model of AD, by studying Aβ1–40-induced voltage-gated calcium channel currents in hippocampal CA1 pyramidal neurons, learning and memory behavioral tests, the number of surviving cholinergic neurons in the basal forebrain, and the acetylcholine level in the hippocampus in this rat model of AD. The results showed that the Aβ1–40-induced increase ofICacan be inhibited by EDA in a dose-dependent manner. Treatment with EDA significantly improved Aβ1–40-induced learning and memory performance. Choline acetyltransferase positive cells in basal forebrain and acetylcholine content in the hippocampus were increased by the administration of EDA as compared with the non-EDA treated Aβ1–40group. These results demonstrate that EDA can inhibit the neurotoxic effect of Aβtoxicity. Collectively, these findings suggest that EDA may serve as a potential complemental treatment strategy for AD.
Formation and Evolution Mechanism of Plasmon Resonance from Single Ring‐Shaped Nanotube to Dimer and Arrays
Authors: Zhou F. Q. , Liu Z. M. , Li H. J. , Liu Z. F. , Tang B. , Zhou X.
Published: April 2014

The formation and evolution mechanisms of plasmon resonance from single Ring‐shaped nanotube to dimer and arrays are studied; an attempt has been made to bridge the gap between single‐tube, dimer, and array. Results show that resonant modes can be divided into three types: quadrupole, hexapole, and octupole resonance from visible to near infrared region, and each mode maintains relatively stable resonant characteristics, but the optical transmission properties including redshift and blueshift of the modes and band gap are highly tunable by adjusting the number of nanotube and intertube spacing values. The field‐interference mechanism has been suggested to explain the physical origin.
Ang (1–7) Protects Islet Endothelial Cells from Palmitate-Induced Apoptosis by AKT, eNOS, p38 MAPK, and JNK Pathways
Authors: Yuan Li , Lu Chun-Li , Wang Ying , Li Yang , Li Xiao-Ya
Published: April 2014

This study aimed to explore the effect of angiotensin (1–7) (Ang (1–7)) on palmitate-induced apoptosis in islet endothelial cells and the mechanism of action. MS-1 cells were treated with palmitate in the presence or absence of Ang (1–7). The percentage of apoptotic cells was determined by DNA fragmentation and flow cytometry. Reactive oxygen species (ROS) production was measured using a Reactive Oxygen Species Assay Kit. Expression of AKT, eNOS, C-Jun N-terminal kinase (JNK), and p38 was detected by western blotting. Compared with palmitate treated group, palmitate-induced apoptosis was decreased in MS-1 cells which were preincubated with Ang (1–7) (P<0.05). Palmitate decreased the phosphorylation of AKT and eNOS, and Ang (1–7) increased the phosphorylation of these kinases (P<0.05), with a concomitant reduction in MS-1 cells apoptosis. Ang (1–7) also inhibited the palmitate-induced ROS production and attenuated the apoptosis-related signaling molecule JNK and p38 activation (allP<0.05). PI3K/AKT, eNOS, p38 MAPK, and JNK inhibitors blocked the antilipoapoptosis of Ang (1–7) (allP<0.05). Our findings suggest that Ang (1–7) reduces palmitate-induced islet endothelial cells apoptosis. AKT/eNOS/NO signaling and JNK and p38 pathway are involved in the Ang (1–7)-mediated modulation of islet endothelial cells lipoapoptosis.
Sequence and Apoptotic Activity of VacA Cytotoxin Cloned from aHelicobacter pyloriThai Clinical Isolate
Authors: Junaid Muhammad , Al-Gubare Sarbast , Yousef Muhammad , Na Ubol Mathukorn , Leetachewa Somphob , Muanprasat Chatchai , Angsuthanasombat Chanan , Chaicumpa Wanpen , Ali Niaz , Katzenmeier Gerd
Published: April 2014

The vacuolating cytotoxin VacA produced byHelicobacter pyloriinduces the formation of large cytoplasmic vacuoles in host gastric epithelial cells as well as a release of cytochrome C from mitochondria resulting in cell apoptosis. Considerable sequence diversity in VacA relating to different degrees of disease severity is observed with clinical samples from a multitude of geographic places. In this study we describe expression inEscherichia coli, purification to homogeneity andin vitroassay of its apoptotic activity of a VacA toxin from aH. pyloriisolate of a Thai patient with gastrointestinal lymphoma. Sequencing revealed that the deduced amino acid sequence of the cloned Thai isolate VacA is similar toH. pyloris1/m2 type strains. The percent sequence similarity to the model strain 60190 was lower due to the presence of extra amino acids in the mid (m) region. The purified VacA toxin exhibited significant apoptotic activity on both T84 and MDCK epithelial cell lines, as revealed by DAPI staining, whereby the observed activity was significantly higher on MDCK cells. These findings could relate to a modulation of VacA activity on host cells in the Thai isolate-VacA toxin that may differ from those of the model strain.
Effects of UV-Vis Irradiation on Vanadium Etioporphyrins Extracted from Crude Oil and the Role of Nanostructured Titania
Authors: Kirkconnell Reyes Debra Jene , García Saravia Ortiz de Montellano Andrés , Trejo Tzab Rudy Amilcar , Oskam Gerko , Alvarado Gil Juan José
Published: April 2014

The role of UV-irradiation on oil and its derivatives is particularly important for analyzing the degradability of specific oil compounds. Also, nanostructured-TiO2is one of the most promising photocatalysts so it is expected to be useful in their degradation. However the complexity of crude oil, as well as that of the reactions involved, is such that the effect of the presence of TiO2under illumination is not well understood. In this paper, the influence of UV-Vis irradiation on vanadium etioporphyrins, extracted from crude oil from Dos Bocas, Tabasco, Mexico, is studied using UV-Vis spectrophotometry in the absence and presence of nanostructured TiO2or nitrogen-doped TiO2modified with copper (N-TiO2/Cu). It is shown that the addition of water shortens the time to start photodegradation. However, once this process has initiated, the system enters a second stage, that is very similar for samples with or without water. It is also shown that the use of N-TiO2/Cu induces an important delay in the initiation of the porphyrins’ photodegradation process. Additionally, it has been found that the presence of TiO2in samples extracted with water induces a small reduction in the photodegradation duration and, hence, that TiO2can catalyze the degradation of petroporphyrins.
Dorsalis Pedis Free Flap: The Salvage Option following Failure of the Radial Forearm Flap in Total Lower Lip Reconstruction
Authors: Stathas Theodoros , Tsinias Georgios , Tsiliboti Dimitra , Tsiros Aris , Mastronikolis Nicholas , Goumas Panos
Published: April 2014

Reconstruction after resection of large tumors of the lower lip requires the use of free flaps in order to restore the shape and the function of the lip, with the free radial forearm flap being the most popular. In this study we describe our experience in using the dorsalis pedis free flap as a salvage option in reconstruction of total lower lip defect in a patient with an extended lower lip carcinoma after failure of the radial forearm free flap, that was initially used. The flap was integrated excellently and on the followup the patient was free of disease and fully satisfied with the aesthetic and functional result.
Human Pluripotent Stem Cell-Derived Cardiomyocytes as Research and Therapeutic Tools
Authors: Acimovic Ivana , Vilotic Aleksandra , Pesl Martin , Lacampagne Alain , Dvorak Petr , Rotrekl Vladimir , Meli Albano C.
Published: April 2014

Human pluripotent stem cells (hPSCs), namely, embryonic stem cells (ESCs) and induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs), with their ability of indefinite self-renewal and capability to differentiate into cell types derivatives of all three germ layers, represent a powerful research tool in developmental biology, for drug screening, disease modelling, and potentially cell replacement therapy. Efficient differentiation protocols that would result in the cell type of our interest are needed for maximal exploitation of these cells. In the present work, we aim at focusing on the protocols for differentiation of hPSCs into functional cardiomyocytesin vitroas well as achievements in the heart disease modelling and drug testing on the patient-specific iPSC-derived cardiomyocytes (iPSC-CMs).
Evaluation of Amniotic-Derived Membrane Biomaterial as an Adjunct for Repair of Critical Sized Bone Defects
Authors: Starecki Mikael , Schwartz John A. , Grande Daniel A.
Published: April 2014

Introduction. Autogenous bone graft is the gold standard in reconstruction of bone defects. The use of autogenous bone graft is problematic because of limited bone as well as donor site morbidity. This study evaluates a novel biomaterial as an alternative to autogenous bone graft. The biomaterial is amniotic membrane, rich in growth factors.Methods. Twenty-one adult male Sprague-Dawley rats were implanted with biomaterial using the rat critical size femoral gap model. After creation of the critical size femoral gap animals were randomized to one of the following groups:Group 1 (control): gap left empty and received no treatment;Group 2 (experimental): the gap was filled with commercially available bone graft;Group 3 (experimental): the gap was filled with bone graft plus NuCel amniotic tissue preparation.Results. The experimental groups demonstrated new bone formation compared to controls. The results were evident on radiographs and histology. Histology showed Group 1 controls to have 11.1% new bone formation, 37.8% for Group 2, and 49.2% for Group 3. These results were statistically significant.Conclusions. The study demonstrates that amniotic membrane products have potential to provide bridging of bone defects. Filling bone defects without harvesting autogenous bone would provide a significant improvement in patient care.
The Chromosome 9p21 Variant Not Predicting Long-Term Cardiovascular Mortality in Chinese with Established Coronary Artery Disease: An Eleven-Year Follow-Up Study
Authors: Lee I-Te , Goodarzi Mark O. , Lee Wen-Jane , Rotter Jerome I. , Chen Yii-der Ida , Liang Kae-Woei , Lee Wen-Lieng , Sheu Wayne H.-H.
Published: April 2014

Introduction. We examined whether the variant at chromosome 9p21, rs4977574, was associated with long-term cardiovascular mortality in Han Chinese patients with coronary artery disease (CAD).Methodology. Subjects who underwent coronary angiography for chest pain were consecutively enrolled. Fasting blood samples were collected for laboratory and genotype assessments. The information was correlated with data collected from the national death database.Results. There were 925 cases with CAD and 634 without CAD enrolled in the present study. The G allele conferred a significant increase in risk of CAD (odds ratio = 1.47,P=0.003in the dominant model; odds ratio = 1.36,P=0.018in the recessive model). During a median of 11 years (inter-quartile range between 5.2 and 12.5 years) of follow-up, neither the total nor the cardiovascular mortality was different among CAD subjects with different genotypes. Using Cox regression analysis, genotypes of rs4977574 still failed to predict cardiovascular mortality (hazard ratio = 1.25,P=0.138in the dominant model; hazard ratio = 1.05,P=0.729in the recessive model).Conclusions. The rs4977574 at chromosome 9p21 is associated with presence of CAD in Han Chinese. However, rs4977574 could not predict cardiovascular mortality in these CAD subjects during the eleven-year period of the study.
Participating in Online Mental Health Interventions: Who Is Most Likely to Sign Up and Why?
Authors: Crisp Dimity A. , Griffiths Kathleen M.
Published: April 2014

Internet-based interventions are increasingly recognized as effective in the treatment and prevention of mental disorders. However, little research has investigated who is most likely to participate in intervention trials. This study examined the characteristics of individuals interested in participating in an online intervention to improve emotional well-being and prevent or reduce the symptoms of depression, factors reported to encourage or discourage participation, and preferences for different intervention types. The study comprised 4761 Australians participating in a survey on emotional health. Comparisons are made between those who expressed an interest in participating in the trial and those who were not. Compared to those who declined to participate, interested participants were more likely older, females, separated/divorced, and highly educated, have reported current or past history of depression, report higher depressive symptoms, and have low personal stigma. Despite the flexibility of online interventions, finding time to participate was the major barrier to engagement. Financial compensation was the most commonly suggested strategy for encouraging participation. An increased understanding of factors associated with nonparticipation may inform the design of future e-mental health intervention trials. Importantly, consideration needs to be given to the competing time pressures of potential participants, in balance with the desired study design.
Effect of MgO and V2O5 Catalyst on the Sensing Behaviour of Tin Oxide Thin Film for SO2 Gas
Authors: Tyagi Punit , Sharma Anjali , Tomar Monika , Gupta Vinay
Published: April 2014

The present work shows the SO2 gas sensing property of SnO2 thin film based sensor prepared by using RF sputtering technique. Different catalysts (MgO and V2O5) in form of nanoclusters having diameter of 600 μm have been loaded on SnO2 surface to detect SO2 gas. The sensing response of all these films towards SO2 is monitored. Microstructural studies have been carried out using XRD and UV-Visible Spectrophotometer and a good correlation has been found between the microstructural and gas sensing properties of these deposited samples. Both catalysts when incorporated with SnO2 film show high selectivity towards SO2 gas at lower operating temperature. MgO gives a sensitivity of 317% at an operating temperature of 280°C towards 500 ppm of SO2 gas whereas V2O5 catalyst gives a sensitivity of 166% at 280°C for the same amount of gas.
Dopamine Cytotoxicity Involves Both Oxidative and Nonoxidative Pathways in SH-SY5Y Cells: Potential Role of Alpha-Synuclein Overexpression and Proteasomal Inhibition in the Etiopathogenesis of Parkinson's Disease
Authors: Banerjee Kalpita , Munshi Soumyabrata , Sen Oishimaya , Pramanik Vishmadeb , Roy Mukherjee Tapasi , Chakrabarti Sasanka
Published: April 2014

Background. The cytotoxic effects of dopamine (DA) on several catecholaminergic cell lines involve DA oxidation products like reactive oxygen species (ROS) and toxic quinones and have implications in the pathogenesis of sporadic Parkinson's disease (PD). However, many molecular details are yet to be elucidated, and the possible nonoxidative mechanism of dopamine cytotoxicity has not been studied in great detail.Results. Cultured SH-SY5Y cells treated with DA (up to 400 μM) or lactacystin (5 μM) or DA (400 μM) plus N-acetylcysteine (NAC, 2.5 mM) for 24 h are processed accordingly to observe the cell viability, mitochondrial dysfunctions, oxidative stress parameters, proteasomal activity, expression of alpha-synuclein gene, and intracellular accumulation of the protein. DA causes mitochondrial dysfunction and extensive loss of cell viability partially inhibited by NAC, potent inhibition of proteasomal activity marginally prevented by NAC, and overexpression with accumulation of intracellular alpha-synuclein partially preventable by NAC. Under similar conditions of incubation, NAC completely prevents enhanced production of ROS and increased formation of quinoprotein adducts in DA-treated SH-SY5Y cells. Separately, proteasomal inhibitor lactacystin causes accumulation of alpha-synuclein as well as mitochondrial dysfunction and cell death.Conclusions. DA cytotoxicity includes both oxidative and nonoxidative modes and may involve overexpression and accumulation of alpha-synuclein as well as proteasomal inhibition.
Absolute Stability of a Class of Nonlinear Singular Systems with Time Delay
Authors: Zeng Hong-Bing , Chen Gang , Xiao Shen-Ping
Published: April 2014

This paper deals with the absolute stability for a class of nonlinear singular systems with time delay. By employing a new Lyapunov-Krasovskii functional with the idea of partitioning delay length, improved delay-dependent stability criteria are established. The resulting condition is formulated in terms of linear matrix inequalities (LMIs), which is easy to be verified by exiting LMI optimization algorithms. A numerical example is given to show the effectiveness of the proposed technique and its improvements over the existing results.
Analysis of Pericardial Effusion from Idiopathic Pericarditis Patients by Two-Dimensional Gel Electrophoresis
Authors: Yavuz Sadan , Kasap Murat , Akpinar Gurler , Ozbudak Ersan , Ural Dilek , Berki Turan
Published: April 2014

Pericardial fluid (PF) is often considered to be reflection of the serum by which information regarding the physiological status of the heart can be obtained. Some local and systemic disorders may perturb the balance between synthesis and discharge of PF and may cause its aberrant accumulation in the pericardial cavity as pericardial effusion (PE). PE may then lead to an increased intrapericardial pressure from which the heart function is undesirably affected. For some cases, the causes for the perturbance of fluid balance are well understood, but in some other cases, they are not apparent. It may, thus, be helpful to understand the molecular mechanisms behind this troublesome condition to elucidate a clinical approach for therapeutic uses. In this study, protein profiles of PEs from idiopathic pericarditis patients were analyzed. Control samples from patients undergoing elective cardiac surgery (ECS) were included for comparison. In addition to high abundant serum-originated proteins that may not hold significance for understanding the molecular mechanisms behind this disease, omentin-1 was identified and its level was higher for more than two-fold in PE of IP patients. Increased levels of omentin-1 in PE may open a way for understanding the molecular mechanisms behind idiopathic pericarditis (IP).
Neutrophil Cathepsin G, but Not Elastase, Induces Aggregation of MCF-7 Mammary Carcinoma Cells by a Protease Activity-Dependent Cell-Oriented Mechanism
Authors: Yui Satoru , Osawa Yuuki , Ichisugi Takeo , Morimoto-Kamata Riyo
Published: April 2014

We previously found that a neutrophil serine protease, cathepsin G, weakens adherence to culture substrates and induces E-cadherin-dependent aggregation of MCF-7 human breast cancer cells through its protease activity. In this study, we examined whether aggregation is caused by degradation of adhesion molecules on the culture substrates or through an unidentified mechanism. We compared the effect of treatment with cathepsin G and other proteases, including neutrophil elastase against fibronectin- (FN-) coated substrates. Cathepsin G and elastase potently degraded FN on the substrates and induced aggregation of MCF-7 cells that had been subsequently seeded onto the substrate. However, substrate-bound cathepsin G and elastase may have caused cell aggregation. After inhibiting the proteases on the culture substrates using the irreversible inhibitor phenylmethylsulfonyl fluoride (PMSF), we examined whether aggregation of MCF-7 cells was suppressed. PMSF attenuated cell aggregation on cathepsin G-treated substrates, but the effect was weak in cells pretreated with high concentrations of cathepsin G. In contrast, PMSF did not suppress cell aggregation on elastase-treated FN. Moreover, cathepsin G, but not elastase, induced aggregation on poly-L-lysine substrates which are not decomposed by these enzymes, and the action of cathepsin G was nearly completely attenuated by PMSF. These results suggest that cathepsin G induces MCF-7 aggregation through a cell-oriented mechanism.
Evidences of +896 A/G TLR4 Polymorphism as an Indicative of Prevalence of Complications in T2DM Patients
Authors: Balistreri Carmela Rita , Bonfigli Anna Rita , Boemi Massimo , Olivieri Fabiola , Ceriello Antonio , Genovese Stefano , Franceschi Claudio , Spazzafumo Liana , Fabietti Paolo , Candore Giuseppina , Caruso Calogero , Lio Domenico , Testa Roberto
Published: April 2014

T2DM is today considered as world-wide health problem, with complications responsible of an enhanced mortality and morbidity. Thus, new strategies for its prevention and therapy are necessary. For this reason, the research interest has focused its attention on TLR4 and its polymorphisms, particularly the rs4986790. However, no conclusive findings have been reported until now about the role of this polymorphism in development of T2DM and its complications, even if a recent meta-analysis showed its T2DM association in Caucasians. In this study, we sought to evaluate the weight of rs4986790 polymorphism in the risk of the major T2DM complications, including 367 T2DM patients complicated for the 55.6%. Patients with A/A and A/G TLR4 genotypes showed significant differences in complication’s prevalence. In particular, AG carriers had higher risk prevalence for neuropathy (P=0.026), lower limb arteriopathy (P=0.013), and the major cardiovascular pathologies (P=0.017). Their cumulative risk was significant (P=0.01), with a threefold risk to develop neuropathy, lower limb arteriopathy, and major cardiovascular events in AG cases compared to AA cases. The adjusted OR for the confounding variables was 3.788 (95% CI: 1.642–8.741). Thus, the rs4986790 polymorphism may be an indicative of prevalence of complications in T2DM patients.
Associations between 25 Lung Cancer Risk–Related SNPs and Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbon–Induced Genetic Damage in Coke Oven Workers
Authors: Dai Xiayun , Deng Siyun , Wang Tian , Qiu Gaokun , Li Jun , Yang Binyao , Feng Wei , He Xiaosheng , Deng Qifei , Ye Jian , Zhang Wangzhen , He Meian , Zhang Xiaomin , Guo Huan , Wu Tangchun
Published: April 2014

Background: Genome-wide association studies (GWAS) have identified multiple single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNP) associated with lung cancer. However, whether these SNPs are associated with genetic damage, a crucial event in cancer initiation and evolution, is still unknown. We aimed to establish associations between these SNPs and genetic damage caused by the ubiquitous carcinogens, polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAH).

Methods: We cross-sectionally investigated the associations between SNPs from published GWAS for lung cancer in Asians and PAH-induced genetic damage in 1,557 coke oven workers in China. Urinary PAH metabolites, plasma benzo[a]pyrene-r-7,t-8,c-10-tetrahydrotetrol-albumin (BPDE-Alb) adducts, urinary 8-hydroxydeoxyguanosine (8-OHdG), and micronuclei (MN) frequency were determined by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry, sandwich ELISA, high-performance liquid chromatography, and cytokinesis-block micronucleus assay, respectively.

Results: 13q12.12-rs753955C was suggestively associated with elevated 8-OHdG levels (P = 0.003). Higher 8-OHdG levels were observed in individuals with rare allele homozygotes (CC) than in TT homozygotes (β, 0.297; 95% confidence interval, 0.124–0.471; P = 0.001). 9p21-rs1333040C, 10p14-rs1663689G, and 15q25.1-rs3813572G were significantly associated with lower MN frequency (P values were 0.002, 0.001, and 0.005, respectively). 10p14-rs1663689G polymorphism downregulated the relationship of the total concentration of PAH metabolites to 8-OHdG levels (Pinteraction = 0.002). TERT-rs2736100G and VTI1A-rs7086803A aggravated the relationship of BPDE-Alb adducts to MN frequency, whereas BPTF-rs7216064G attenuated that correlation (all Pinteraction < 0.001).

Conclusions: Lung cancer risk–associated SNPs and their correlations with PAH exposure were associated with 8-OHdG levels and MN frequency.

Impact: Lung cancer risk–associated SNPs might influence one's susceptibility to genetic damage caused by PAHs. Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev; 23(6); 986–96. ©2014 AACR.
Pseudoisodicentric Xp Chromosome [46,X,psu idic(X)(q21.1)] and Its Effect on Growth and Pubertal Development
Authors: van der Kamp H.J. , Kant S.G. , Ruivenkamp C.A.L. , Gijsbers A.C.J. , Haring D. , Oostdijk W.
Published: April 2014

Background: Most isodicentric (Xp) and (Xq) chromosomes occur as a mosaic with a 45,X cell line. Patients with a nonmosaic 46,X,idic(Xq) are rare. Cases: The first girl was referred at 13 years with a short stature and pubertal delay (M1, P2, A1). Her height was 141.6 cm (-3.1 SDS). Ovarian failure was present. The second girl was referred because of her short stature at 12.5 years. Her height was 142.2 cm (-2.4 SDS). She had spontaneous puberty (M3, P1, A1). Results: In both girls, conventional karyotyping of lymphocytes revealed an aberrant X chromosome consisting of twice the short arm and a small part of the long arm of the X chromosome [nonmosaic 46,X,psu idic(X)(q21.1)]. FISH analysis of the aberrant X chromosome showed the presence of two centromeres, two copies of the XIST gene and two copies of the SHOX gene. Conclusions: The presence of two XIST genes on the isodicentric X chromosome with Xq deletion indicates the inactivation of this chromosome. This inactivation also concerned the pseudoautosomal regions which caused haploinsufficiency of the SHOX genes. The girls were treated with growth hormones. The critical region (Xq23 to Xq28) for the ovarian function was deleted in both patients, but the gonadal function was variable.
Neuropathological Characteristics of Progression after Prolonged Response to Bevacizumab in Multifocal Hemangioblastoma
Authors: Seystahl Katharina , Weller Michael , Bozinov Oliver , Reimann Regina , Rushing Elisabeth
Published: April 2014

Background: Antiangiogenic treatment has been explored in few patients with hemangioblastoma after failure of surgery and radiotherapy. Case Report: We present the first histopathological follow-up study of a bevacizumab-responsive hemangioblastoma that eventually progressed. For a period of 12 months, therapy with bevacizumab achieved a clinical response and radiological stabilization in a patient with progressive multifocal central nervous system (CNS) hemangioblastoma. Subsequently, selected tumor sites showed radiological progression, in particular, the formation of an intramedullary lesion of the initially predominantly leptomeningeal disease. Histology showed diffuse dural invasion by the hemangioblastoma accompanied with a relatively reduced cell density compared to the preserved vessel structures. Conclusion: The pattern of progression upon vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF)-targeting antiangiogenic treatment in hemangioblastoma may involve increased tumor invasiveness.
Warfarin Versus Aspirin for Prevention of Cognitive Decline in Atrial Fibrillation
Authors: Mavaddat Nahal , Roalfe Andrea , Fletcher Kate , Lip Gregory Y.H. , Hobbs F.D. Richard , Fitzmaurice David , Mant Jonathan
Published: April 2014

Background and Purpose—

Atrial fibrillation is associated with decline of cognitive function. Observational evidence suggests that anticoagulation might protect against this decline. We report the first randomized controlled trial evidence on the effect of anticoagulation on cognitive function in elderly patients with atrial fibrillation.

Methods—

A total of 973 patients aged ≥75 years with atrial fibrillation were recruited from primary care and randomly assigned to warfarin (n=488; target international normalized ratio, 2–3) or aspirin (n=485; 75 mg/d). Neither participants nor investigators were masked to group assignment. Follow-up was for a mean of 2.7 years (SD, 1.2). Cognitive outcome was assessed using the Mini-Mental State Examination at 9-, 21-, and 33-month follow-up. Participants who had a stroke were censored from the analysis, which was by intention to treat with imputation for missing data.

Results—

There was no difference between mean Mini-Mental State Examination scores in people assigned to warfarin or aspirin at 9 or 21 months. At 33-month follow-up, there was a nonsignificant difference of 0.56 in favor of warfarin that decreased to 0.49 (95% confidence interval, –0.01 to 0.98) after imputation.

Conclusions—

We found no evidence that anticoagulation confers clinically important protection over aspirin against cognitive decline as measured by the Mini-Mental State Examination in atrial fibrillation in the first 33 months of treatment other than that provided by preventing clinical stroke.

Clinical Trial Registration—

URL:
http://www.controlled-trials.com
. Unique identifier: ISRCTN89345269.
Two new combinations in Erythranthe section Simiolus (Phrymaceae) for the flora of Chile
Authors: WATSON JOHN MICHAEL , FLORES ANA ROSA
Published: April 2014

Two Chilean members of Mimulus, M. minimus and M. depressus var. ciminum, are transfered to Erythranthe as E. minima and E. depressa var. ciminum respectively.
A striking new species of phytotelm-breeding tree frog (Anura: Rhacophoridae) from central Vietnam
Authors: ROWLEY JODI J.L. , LE DUONG THI THUY , DAU VINH QUANG , HOANG HUY DUC , CAO TRUNG TIEN
Published: April 2014

We describe a distinctive new species of phytotelm-breeding rhacophorid frog from central Vietnam. Gracixalus lumarius sp. nov. is distinguished from all other rhacophorids in Indochina by a combination of (1) medium body size (adult males 38.9–41.6 mm; adult female 36.3 mm), (2) dorsum brown diurnally and yellow nocturnally, (3) venter pink, (4) tympanum and supratympanic fold indistinct (5) iris dark gold with a dense, relatively uniformly distributed network of black reticulations, (6) dorsum with distinctive white conical tubercles in males, and (7) eggs deposited on wall of a phyptotelm. The new species is known from montane bamboo and montane evergreen forest in Ngoc Linh Nature Reserve in Kon Tum Province, between ~1845–2160 m elevation.
The larvae of Gepus invisus Navás, 1912 and Solter liber Navás, 1912, a comparative description (Neuroptera: Myrmeleontidae)
Authors: BADANO DAVIDE , ACEVEDO FERNANDO , MONSERRAT VÍCTOR J.
Published: April 2014

The third instar larvae of Gepus invisus and Solter liber are comparatively described and illustrated for the first time with a particular emphasis on genus level characters. Larval morphology confirms a close relationship between these genera as they differ only in minor characters.
A new species of Pseudopyrochroa Pic, 1906 (Coleoptera: Pyrochroidae: Pyrochroinae) from the Mae Chaem District, Thailand
Authors: YOUNG DANIEL K.
Published: April 2014

A new species of the fire-colored beetle genus Pseudopyrochroa Pic, 1906, is described from the Mae Chaem District, Chiang Mai Province, Thailand. The new species, Pseudopyrochroa inthanonensis sp. nov., is superficially similar to Pseudopyrochroa basalis (Pic), Pseudopyrochroa cardoni (Fairmaire) and Pseudopyrochroa fainanensis (Pic) by virtue of body color, antennal form and prothoracic shape. It is the second species of the genus known from Thailand, the other being Pseudopyrochroa diversicornis (Blair).
An Improved Weak Pressure Gradient Scheme for Single-Column Modeling
Authors: Edman Jacob P. , Romps David M.
Published: April 2014

A new formulation of the weak pressure gradient approximation (WPG) is introduced for parameterizing large-scale dynamics in limited-domain atmospheric models. This new WPG is developed in the context of the one-dimensional, linearized, damped, shallow-water equations and then extended to Boussinesq and compressible fluids. Unlike previous supradomain-scale parameterizations, this formulation of WPG correctly reproduces both steady-state solutions and first baroclinic gravity waves. In so doing, this scheme eliminates the undesirable gravity wave resonance in previous versions of WPG. In addition, this scheme can be extended to accurately model the emission of gravity waves with arbitrary vertical wavenumber.