bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
CuOx CERAMIC SAMPLES PROPERTIES BEFORE AND AFTER LASER IRRADIATION
Authors: KUZANYAN A.S. , PASHAYAN S.T. , TATOYAN V.T. , NIKOGHOSYAN V.R. , KUZANYAN V.S. , VARDANYAN V.H. , NESTEROV V.M. , PILOSYAN S.KH. , GRASYUK A.Z.
Published: June 2012

Ceramic samples of copper oxide were synthesized and their microstructure, elemental composition and electrical properties were investigated before and after the influence of YAG : Nd laser radiation. It was discovered that laser radiation leads to the fusion of granules and to a decrease in oxygen concentration in the surface layer of the sample. After the laser treatment the electrical properties of the samples pre-coated and not coated with copper film differ significantly, in particular the resistive thermal activation energy of these samples differs several times. For all the samples the current–voltage characteristics were linear at small values of the current.
The geodynamic province of transitional lithosphere adjacent to magma-poor continental margins
Authors: Sibuet Jean-Claude , Tucholke Brian E.
Published: June 2012

Two different types of ‘transitional lithosphere’ have been documented along magma-poor rifted margins. One consists of apparently subcontinental mantle that has been exhumed, brittlely deformed, and serpentinized during late stages of rifting. A second is thinned (<10 km) continental crust, which in some cases is known to have been supported near sea level at least early in the rift history and thus is interpreted to reflect depth-dependent extension. In both cases, it is typically assumed that oceanic crust forms at the time that the brittle continental crust is breached or soon thereafter, and thus that transitional lithosphere has relatively limited width. Here three representative cases of transitional lithosphere are examined: one in the Newfoundland–Iberia rift and one at Goban Spur (both exhumed mantle), and one off the Angola–Congo margin (thin continental crust flanked seaward by apparently exhumed lower continental crust±exhumed mantle). Considering the geological and geophysical evidence, it appears that depth-dependent extension (riftward flow of weak lower continental crust and/or upper mantle) may be a common phenomenon on magma-poor margins and that this can result in a much broader zone of transitional lithosphere than has hitherto been assumed. Transitional lithosphere in this wide zone may consist of subcontinental mantle, lower continental crust or some combination thereof, depending on the strength profile of the pre-rift continental lithosphere. Transitional lithosphere ceases to be emplaced (i.e. ‘final break-up’ occurs) only when emplacement of heat and melt from the rising asthenosphere becomes dominant over lateral flow of the weak lower lithosphere. This model implies a two-stage break-up: first, the rupture of the brittle continental crust; and, second, the eventual separation of the ductile subcontinental lithosphere which is coincident with emplacement of normal oceanic crust. Well defined magnetic anomalies can form in transitional lithosphere that consists of highly serpentinized, exhumed mantle, and such anomalies therefore are not diagnostic of oceanic crust. Where present, the anomalies can be helpful in interpreting and dating the rifting history.
Degrees of separation
Authors: Goth Gregory
Published: June 2012

Rsearchers now have the capability to look at the small-world problem from both the traditional algorithmic approach and the new topological approach.
HTML5 leads a web revolution
Authors: Anthes Gary
Published: June 2012

Propelled by a proliferation of mobile devices and social networks, an enhanced family of Web specifications is bringing new power to developers and new capabilities to users.
Patently inadequate
Authors: Krakovsky Marina
Published: June 2012

The biggest change to U.S. patent law in nearly 60 years brings many changes, but fails to solve the software industry's most vexing problems.
Google's hybrid approach to research
Authors: Spector Alfred , Norvig Peter , Petrov Slav
Published: June 2012

By closely connecting research and development Google is able to conduct experiments on an unprecedented scale, often resulting in new capabilities for the company.
My compiler does not understand me
Authors: Kamp Poul-Henning
Published: June 2012

Until our programming languages catch up, code will be full of horrors.
Future Tense: They just click
Authors: MacLeod Ken
Published: June 2012

Future Tense, one of the revolving features on this page, presents stories and essays from the intersection of computational science and technological speculation, their boundaries limited only by our ability to imagine what could be.

When glasses track glances, will eyes still meet across a crowded room?
Alan Turing's other universal machine
Authors: Campbell-Kelly Martin
Published: June 2012

Reflections on the Turing ACE computer and its influence.
Early Events in Axon/Dendrite Polarization
Authors: Cheng Pei-lin , Poo Mu-ming
Published: June 2012

Differentiation of axons and dendrites is a critical step in neuronal development. Here we review the evidence that axon/dendrite formation during neuronal polarization depends on the intrinsic cytoplasmic asymmetry inherited by the postmitotic neuron, the exposure of the neuron to extracellular chemical factors, and the action of anisotropic mechanical forces imposed by the environment. To better delineate the functions of early signals among a myriad of cellular components that were shown to influence axon/dendrite formation, we discuss their functions by distinguishing their roles as determinants, mediators, or modulators and consider selective degradation of these components as a potential mechanism for axon/dendrite polarization. Finally, we examine whether these early events of axon/dendrite formation involve local autocatalytic activation and long-range inhibition, as postulated by Alan Turing for the morphogenesis of patterned biological structure.
The Auditory Hair Cell Ribbon Synapse: From Assembly to Function
Authors: Safieddine Saaid , El-Amraoui Aziz , Petit Christine
Published: June 2012

Cochlear inner hair cells (IHCs), the mammalian auditory sensory cells, encode acoustic signals with high fidelity by Graded variations of their membrane potential trigger rapid and sustained vesicle exocytosis at their ribbon synapses. The kinetics of glutamate release allows proper transfer of sound information to the primary afferent auditory neurons. Understanding the physiological properties and underlying molecular mechanisms of the IHC synaptic machinery, and especially its high temporal acuity, which is pivotal to speech perception, is a central issue of auditory science. During the past decade, substantial progress in high-resolution imaging and electrophysiological recordings, as well as the development of genetic approaches both in humans and in mice, has produced major insights regarding the morphological, physiological, and molecular characteristics of this synapse. Here we review this recent knowledge and discuss how it enlightens the way the IHC ribbon synapse develops and functions.
Sympathetic innervation of the splanchnic region mediates the beneficial hemodynamic effects of 8-OH-DPAT in hemorrhagic shock
Authors: Tiniakov Ruslan , Pahan Kalipada , Scrogin Karie E.
Published: June 2012

Administration of the 5-HT1A receptor agonist, 8-OH-DPAT, improves cardiovascular hemodynamics and tissue oxygenation in conscious rats subjected to hypovolemic shock. This effect is mediated by sympathetic-dependent increases in venous tone. To determine the role of splanchnic nerves in this response, effects of 8-OH-DPAT (30 nmol/kg iv) were measured following fixed-arterial blood pressure hemorrhagic shock (i.e., maintenance of 50 mmHg arterial pressure for 25 min) in rats subjected to bilateral splanchnic nerve denervation (SD). Splanchnic denervation decreased baseline venous tone as measured by mean circulatory filling pressure (MCFP) and accelerated the onset of hypotension during blood loss. Splanchnic denervation did not affect the immediate pressor effect of 8-OH-DPAT but did reverse the drug's lasting pressor effect, as well as its ability to increase MCFP and improve metabolic acidosis. Like SD, adrenal demedullation (ADMX) lowered baseline MCFP and accelerated the hypotensive response to blood withdrawal but also reduced the volume of blood withdrawal required to maintain arterial blood pressure at 50 mmHg. 8-OH-DPAT raised MCFP early after administration in ADMX rats, but the response did not persist throughout the posthemorrhage period. In a fixed-volume hemorrhage model, 8-OH-DPAT continued to raise blood pressure in ADMX rats. However, it produced only a transient and variable rise in MCFP compared with sham-operated animals. The data indicate that 8-OH-DPAT increases venoconstriction and improves acid-base balance in hypovolemic rats through activation of splanchnic nerves. This effect is due, in part, to activation of the adrenal medulla.
DPP4 inhibition improves functional outcome after renal ischemia-reperfusion injury
Authors: Glorie Lorenzo L. F. , Verhulst Anja , Matheeussen Veerle , Baerts Lesley , Magielse Joanna , Hermans Nina , D'Haese Patrick C. , De Meester Ingrid , De Beuf Annelies
Published: June 2012

Dipeptidyl peptidase 4 (DPP4) is an exopeptidase which modulates the function of its substrates, among which are insulin-releasing incretins. DPP4 inhibitors are currently used to improve glucose tolerance in type 2 diabetes patients. Inhibition of DPP4 exhibits protective effects on ischemia-reperfusion injury (IRI) of the heart and lung. As DPP4 and its substrates are also expressed in the kidney, we studied the effect of the DPP4 inhibitor vildagliptin on the outcome of IRI-induced acute kidney injury in rats in a model of 30-min unilateral renal ischemia, followed by contralateral nephrectomy. Saline, 1, or 10 mg/kg vildagliptin (VG1/VG10) was administered intravenously 15 min before the surgery. Animals were euthanized after 2, 12, amd 48 h of reperfusion. DPP4 inhibition resulted in a significant dose-dependent decrease in serum creatinine (1.31 ± 0.32 and 0.70 ± 0.19 mg/dl for VG1 and VG10, respectively, vs. 1.91 ± 0.28 mg/dl for controls at 12 h; P < 0.01). Tubular morphology (PAS-PCNA) revealed significantly reduced tubular necrosis at 12 h (62.1 ± 18.0 and 77.5 ± 22.0% in VG10 and saline, respectively). VG did not affect regeneration but decreased apoptosis, as shown by twofold decreased Bax/Bcl-2 mRNA expression and a threefold decrease in apoptotic bodies on terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase dUTP nick-end labeling-stained sections. VG treatment significantly reduced serum malondialdehyde twofold in both VG1- and VG10-treated ischemic and sham-operated animals compared with controls and also resulted in a significant decrease in mRNA expression of the proinflammatory marker CXCL10 at 2 h of reperfusion. Through a mechanism yet to be fully understood, VG treatment results in a functional protection of the kidney against IRI. This protection was associated with antiapoptotic, immunological, and antioxidative changes.
Rapid, dynamic changes in glomerular permeability to macromolecules during systemic angiotensin II (ANG II) infusion in rats
Authors: Axelsson Josefin , Rippe Anna , Öberg Carl M. , Rippe Bengt
Published: June 2012

The actions of systemic angiotensin II (ANG II) infusions on glomerular permeability were investigated in vivo. In anesthetized Wistar rats (250–280 g), the left ureter was cannulated for urine collection, while simultaneously blood access was achieved. Rats were continuously infused intravenously with either of four doses of ANG II ranging from 16 ng·kg−1·min−1(Lo-ANG II) to 1.82 μg·kg−1·min−1(Hi-ANG II), and in separate experiments with aldosterone (Aldo; 0.22 mg·kg−1·min−1), or with the calcium channel blocker nimodipine, or with the Aldo antagonist spironolactone together with a high ANG II dose (910 ng·kg−1·min−1; Hi-Int-ANG II), respectively, and with polydisperse FITC-Ficoll-70/400 (molecular radius 10–80 Å) and51Cr-EDTA. Plasma and urine samples were taken at 5, 15, 30, 60, and 120 min and analyzed by high performance size-exclusion chromatography for determination of glomerular sieving coefficients (θ) to Ficoll. Mean arterial pressure (MAP) and glomerular filtration rate (GFR) were also assessed. For ANG II, there was a rapid, marked, partly reversible increase in glomerular permeability (θ) for Ficoll molecules >34 Å in radius, peaking at 5–15 min, which was completely abrogated by the ANG II blocker candesartan but not affected by spironolactone at 15 and 30 min. For Aldo, the response was similar to that found for the lowest dose of ANG II infused. For the two highest ANG II doses given (Hi-Int-ANG II and Hi-ANG II), GFR decreased transiently, concomitant with marked, sustained increases in MAP. Nimodipine completely blocked all hemodynamic ANG II actions, whereas the glomerular permeability response remained unchanged. Thus ANG II directly increased glomerular permeability independently of its hemodynamic actions and largely independently of the concomitant Aldo response. The ANG II-induced increases in glomerular permeability were, according to a two-pore and a log-normal distributed pore model, compatible with an increased number of “large pores” in the glomerular filter, and, to some extent, an increase in the dispersity of the small-pore radius.
HSP47 regulates ECM accumulation in renal proximal tubular cells induced by TGF-β1through ERK1/2 and JNK MAPK pathways
Authors: Xiao Hong-bo , Liu Rui-hong , Ling Guang-hui , Xiao Li , Xia Yuan-chen , Liu Fu-you , Li Jun , Liu Ying-hong , Chen Qin-kai , Lv Jin-lei , Zhan Ming , Yang Shi-kun , Kanwar Yashpal S. , Sun Lin
Published: June 2012

Heat shock protein (HSP)47 is a collagen-specific molecular chaperone that is essential for the biosynthesis of collagen molecules. It is likely that increased levels of HSP47 contribute to the assembly of procollagen and thereby cause an excessive accumulation of collagens in disease processes associated with fibrosis. Although HSP47 promotes renal fibrosis, the underlying mechanism and associated signaling events have not been clearly delineated. We examined the role of HSP47 in renal fibrosis using a rat unilateral ureteral obstruction model and transforming growth factor (TGF)-β1-treated human proximal tubular epithelial (HK-2) cells. An upregulation of HSP47 in both in vivo and in vitro models was observed, which correlated with the increased synthesis of extracellular matrix (ECM) proteins and expression of tissue-type plasminogen activator inhibitor (PAI)-1. Blockade of HSP47 by short interfering RNA suppressed the expression of ECM proteins and PAI-1. In addition, TGF-β1-induced HSP47 expression in HK-2 cells was attenuated by ERK1/2 and JNK MAPK inhibitors. These data suggest that ERK1/2 and JNK signaling events are involved in modulating the expression of HSP47, the chaperoning effect of which on TGF-β1would ultimately contribute to renal fibrosis by enhancing the synthesis and deposition of ECM proteins.
On Double Summability of Double Conjugate Fourier Series
Authors: Nigam H. K. , Sharma Kusum
Published: June 2012

For the first time, a theorem on double matrix summability of double conjugate Fourier series is established.
Diversity of Eukaryotic Translational Initiation Factor eIF4E in Protists
Authors: Jagus Rosemary , Bachvaroff Tsvetan R. , Joshi Bhavesh , Place Allen R.
Published: June 2012

The greatest diversity of eukaryotic species is within the microbial eukaryotes, the protists, with plants and fungi/metazoa representing just two of the estimated seventy five lineages of eukaryotes. Protists are a diverse group characterized by unusual genome features and a wide range of genome sizes from 8.2 Mb in the apicomplexan parasiteBabesia bovisto 112,000-220,050 Mb in the dinoflagellateProrocentrum micans. Protists possess numerous cellular, molecular and biochemical traits not observed in “text-book” model organisms. These features challenge some of the concepts and assumptions about the regulation of gene expression in eukaryotes. Like multicellular eukaryotes, many protists encode multiple eIF4Es, but few functional studies have been undertaken except in parasitic species. An earlier phylogenetic analysis of protist eIF4Es indicated that they cannot be grouped within the three classes that describe eIF4E family members from multicellular organisms. Many more protist sequences are now available from which three clades can be recognized that are distinct from the plant/fungi/metazoan classes. Understanding of the protist eIF4Es will be facilitated as more sequences become available particularly for the under-represented opisthokonts and amoebozoa. Similarly, a better understanding of eIF4Es within each clade will develop as more functional studies of protist eIF4Es are completed.
The Correlation between the CLEC16A Gene and Genetic Susceptibility to Type 1 Diabetes in Chinese Children
Authors: Sang Yanmei , Zong Wei , Yan Jie , Liu Min
Published: June 2012

Objective. The CLEC16A gene is related to the genetic susceptibility to T1DM with racial variability. This study investigated the association between CLEC16A gene polymorphisms and T1DM in Chinese children.Methods. 131 Chinese children with T1DM were selected for study, and 121 healthy adult blood donors were selected as normal controls. PCR and mass spectrometry was used to study the distributions of 17 CLEC16A alleles in patients and controls. The relationship between CLEC16A gene polymorphisms and T1DM was studied.Results. The distributions of two polymorphisms (rs12921922, rs12931878) of CLEC16A in T1DM and healthy controls were significantly different, while the distributions of other CLEC16A polymorphisms show no significant differences. The alleles of rs12921922 are C and T. The frequency of the T allele was significantly increased in patients versus healthy controls. The alleles of rs12931878 are A and C. The frequencies of the A allele are significantly increased in T1DM patients versus healthy controls.Conclusion. Two polymorphisms in the CLEC16A gene correlate with increased susceptibility to T1DM in Chinese children, revealing that it was another new gene that correlates with susceptibility to T1DM in multiple populations.
Global Error Bound Estimation for the Generalized Nonlinear Complementarity Problem over a Closed Convex Cone
Authors: Sun Hongchun , Wang Yiju
Published: June 2012

The global error bound estimation for the generalized nonlinear complementarity problem over a closed convex cone (GNCP) is considered. To obtain a global error bound for the GNCP, we first develop an equivalent reformulation of the problem. Based on this, a global error bound for the GNCP is established. The results obtained in this paper can be taken as an extension of previously known results.
Microglia in Alzheimer's Disease: It's All About Context
Authors: Weitz Tara M. , Town Terrence
Published: June 2012

Neuroinflammation is now regarded as both an early event and prime mover in the pathobiology of Alzheimer disease (AD), a neurodegenerative disease that represents a growing public health threat. As the resident innate immune cells within the central nervous system, microglia are centrally positioned as key orchestrators of brain inflammation. It is now accepted that numerous forms of activated microglia exist. Furthermore, while some types of reactive microglia are detrimental, others can actually be beneficial. In the context of AD etiopathology, much debate surrounds whether these enigmatic cells play “good” or “bad” roles. In this article, we distill a complex clinical and experimental literature focused on the contribution of microglia to AD pathology and progression. A synthesis of the literature only seems possible when considering context– the conditions under which microglia encounter and mount immunological responses to AD pathology. In order to carry out these diverse contextual responses, a number of key receptors and signaling pathways are variously activated. It will be critically important for future studies to address molecular mediators that lead to beneficial microglial responses and therefore represent important therapeutic targets for AD.
A Hybrid Genetic Algorithm for the Multiple Crossdocks Problem
Authors: Miao Zhaowei , Fu Ke , Yang Feng
Published: June 2012

We study a multiple crossdocks problem with supplier and customer time windows, where any violation of time windows will incur a penalty cost and the flows through the crossdock are constrained by fixed transportation schedules and crossdock capacities. We prove this problem to be 𝒩𝒫‐hard in the strong sense and therefore focus on developing efficient heuristics. Based on the problem structure, we propose a hybrid genetic algorithm (HGA) integrating greedy technique and variable neighborhood search method to solve the problem. Extensive experiments under different scenarios were conducted, and results show that HGA outperforms CPLEX solver, providing solutions in realistic timescales.
Role of Polymer Interactions with Clays and Modifiers on Nanomechanical Properties and Crystallinity in Polymer Clay Nanocomposites
Authors: Katti Dinesh R. , Katti Kalpana S. , Raviprasad M. , Gu Chunju
Published: June 2012

We present the effect of organic modifier on crystallinity and nanomechanical properties of polymer clay nanocomposites (PCNs) using two different polymers while maintaining the same nanoclay and organic modifier. Experimental results and interaction energy maps of Polybutylene‐Terephthalate‐ (PBT‐) PCN system indicate that the underlying mechanisms of change in crystallinity and improvement in mechanical properties as proposed in altered phase theory are valid. Experimental and molecular simulation studies of PBT‐PCN and Nylon6‐PCN reveal that a higher crystallinity polymer could require significantly higher attractive and repulsive interaction energies between polymer and organic modifiers to change the crystallinity of the polymer in the PCN significantly and thus improve mechanical properties of the PCN.
Surgical Treatment of Peritoneal Carcinomatosis from Gastric Cancer
Authors: Turaga Kiran K. , Gamblin T. Clark , Pappas Sam
Published: June 2012

Peritoneal carcinomatosis from gastric cancer is considered a fatal disease with limited treatment options. Recent advances in the understanding of the disease process, systemic chemotherapy, and application of cytoreductive surgery and hyperthermic chemoperfusion have shown promising results in the management of this difficult disease. Novel therapies such as extensive intraperitoneal lavage and intraperitoneal targeted agents are being applied in the management of this disease. We review the current literature in this field and describe the rationale behind some of these advances.
Influence of Spirituality on Depression, Posttraumatic Stress Disorder, and Suicidality in Active Duty Military Personnel
Authors: Hourani Laurel L. , Williams Jason , Forman-Hoffman Valerie , Lane Marian E. , Weimer Belinda , Bray Robert M.
Published: June 2012

Understanding the role of spirituality as a potential coping mechanism for military personnel is important given growing concern about the mental health issues of personnel returning from war. This study seeks to determine the extent to which spirituality is associated with selected mental health problems among active duty military personnel and whether it moderates the relationship between combat exposure/deployment and (a) depression, (b) posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and (c) suicidality in active duty military personnel. Data were drawn from the 2008 Department of Defense Survey of Health Related Behaviors Among Active Duty Military Personnel. Over 24,000 randomly selected active duty personnel worldwide completed an anonymous self-report questionnaire. High spirituality had a significant protective effect only for depression symptoms. Medium, as opposed to high or low, levels of spirituality buffered each of the mental health outcomes to some degree. Medium and low spirituality levels predicted depression symptoms but only among those with moderate combat exposure. Medium spirituality levels also predicted PTSD symptoms among those with moderate levels of combat exposure and predicted self-reported suicidal ideation/attempt among those never deployed. These results point to the complex relationship between spirituality and mental health, particularly among military personnel and the need for further research.
Effect of Conductivity of the Aqueous Solution on the Size of Printable Nanoparticle
Authors: Oh Mi-Hyun , Kim Nam-Soo , Kang Sun-Mee
Published: June 2012

Direct writing technology using nano/microsize particles in aqueous solution is currently one of the leading candidates to bring a substantial advancement to the technical arena. However, little is known about an effect of conductivity of the solution including metal ions on nanoparticle size for the direct writing technology. It is believed that conductivity of solution can influence the size of particles in reducing environmental of aqueous solutions. In this study parameters which affect electric conductivity in solution were characterized by changing concentration of copper ion, concentration of surfactants, and anion of metal compounds. The mobility of ion in aqueous media with respect to copper ion concentration was the most pronounced factor to control the size of created copper nanometals in water. However, due to the high reactivity on large surface area, the nanocopper metal was oxidized in water. The electric conductivity varied in the range of 7 to 360 mS/cm when Cu(NO3)2⋅3H2O dissolved in water from 0.03–3.0 mol/dm3. In this condition, the size of nano particles can vary from 10 to 500 nm. Various concentrations of surfactants and two anion Cu compounds used to vary the conductivity of the solution to verify the effect of electric conductivity of solution on the particle size. Decreasing the conductivity had a corresponding effect on the particle size. The electric conductivity was decreased from 67 to 56 mS/cm by adding surfactant from 0.1 to 0.5 mol/dm3consequently, the particle sizes were decreased from 89 to 21 nm. Copper nitrate and copper chloride were used to verify the anion effect on electrical conductivity and particle sizes. This effect was not dependent on the kind of ions chosen to change the conductivity. However, when Cu(NO3)2⋅3H2O was used, the size of the particles was 89 nm, while it was 91 nm when CuCl2⋅2H2O was used.
Polymorphism of Myostatin Gene in Intron 1 and 2 and Exon 3, and Their Associations with Yearling Weight, Using PCR-RFLP and PCR-SSCP Techniques in Zel Sheep
Authors: Dehnavi Elena , Ahani Azari Mojtaba , Hasani Saeed , Nassiry Mohammad Reza , Mohajer Mokhtar , Khan Ahmadi Alireza , Shahmohamadi Leila , Yousefi Soheil
Published: June 2012

The aim of present study was to investigate myostatin gene polymorphism and its association with yearling weight records in Zel sheep using PCR-RFLP and PCR-SSCP methods. Blood samples were collected from 200 Zel sheep, randomly, and DNA was extracted using modified salting out method. Polymerase chain reaction was carried out to amplify 337, 222, and 311 bp fragments, respectively, comprising a part of exon 3, intron 1, and intron 2 of myostatin gene. In addition, exon 3 was digested by HaeIII enzyme under RFLP method, and introns 1 and 2 were studied using SSCP. Under RFLP method, all samples showed mm genotype. Under SSCP method, intron 1 was also monomorph but intron 2 was polymorph (AA, AB, and BB). The allelic frequencies for A and B were 75.5 and 24.5%, respectively. This locus was not in Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium (P<0.05), and there was no significant effect of myostatin gene on yearling weights.
Nuclear Expression of a Mitochondrial DNA Gene: Mitochondrial Targeting of Allotopically Expressed Mutant ATP6 in Transgenic Mice
Authors: Dunn David A. , Pinkert Carl A.
Published: June 2012

Nuclear encoding of mitochondrial DNA transgenes followed by mitochondrial targeting of the expressed proteins (allotopic expression; AE) represents a potentially powerful strategy for creating animal models of mtDNA disease. Mice were created that allotopically express either a mutant (A6M) or wildtype (A6W)mt-Atp6transgene. Compared to non-transgenic controls, A6M mice displayed neuromuscular and motor deficiencies (wire hang, pole, and balance beam analyses;P<0.05), no locomotor differences (gait analysis;P<0.05) and enhanced endurance in Rota-Rod evaluations (P<0.05). A6W mice exhibited inferior muscle strength (wire hang test;P<0.05), no difference in balance beam footsteps, accelerating Rota-Rod, pole test and gait analyses; (P<0.05) and superior performance in balance beam time-to-cross and constant velocity Rota-Rod analyses (P<0.05) in comparison to non-transgenic control mice. Mice of both transgenic lines did not differ from non-transgenic controls in a number of bioenergetic and biochemical tests including measurements of serum lactate and mitochondrial MnSOD protein levels, ATP synthesis rate, and oxygen consumption (P>0.05). This study illustrates a mouse model capable of circumventingin vivomitochondrial mutations. Moreover, it provides evidence supporting AE as a tool for mtDNA disease research with implications in development of DNA-based therapeutics.
Bone Mineral Density in Thalassemia Major Patients from Antalya, Turkey
Authors: Aslan Ibrahim , Canatan Duran , Balta Nihal , Kacar Gulizar , Dorak Cengaver , Ozsancak Ahmet , Oguz Nurgul , Cosan Ruya
Published: June 2012

Aim. We assessed the bone mineral density and related parameters in nine adults, thirty-eight pubertal, prepubertal totally forty-seven patients with thalassemia major living in Antalya, Turkey.Materials and Methods. We measured height and pubertal staging in last five years by six-month intervals. Average ferritin and hemoglobin concentrations were calculated for last three years. The levels of hydroxyproline, calcium, phosphorus, and creatinine were measured in 24 h urine, and those of parathormone, IGF 1, osteocalcine, alkaline phosphatase, calcium, ionized calcium, magnesium, phosphorus, creatine, blood glucose, thyroid stimulating hormone, alanine transaminase, and aspartate transaminase were determined in serum, and also the bone mineral density was measured.Results. The average L1–L4 bone mass density was27.1±10.1 g cm−2; the average bone mineral content was0.65 ± 0.11 g. of the patients with a Z-score under 2.5. A moderate relationship was found between the bone mass density age and height. Subjects in low pubertal staging and short stature (<3% percentile) have significantly lower bone mass densitiesP<0.001.Conclusion. he prevalence of osteoporosis is high in patients with thalassemia major, possibly related to delayed puberty.
Biodegradation of Used Motor Oil in Soil Using Organic Waste Amendments
Authors: Abioye O. P. , Agamuthu P. , Abdul Aziz A. R.
Published: June 2012

Soil and surface water contamination by used lubricating oil is a common occurrence in most developing countries. This has been shown to have harmful effects on the environment and human beings at large. Bioremediation can be an alternative green technology for remediation of such hydrocarbon-contaminated soil. Bioremediation of soil contaminated with 5% and 15% (w/w) used lubricating oil and amended with 10% brewery spent grain (BSG), banana skin (BS), and spent mushroom compost (SMC) was studied for a period of 84 days, under laboratory condition. At the end of 84 days, the highest percentage of oil biodegradation (92%) was recorded in soil contaminated with 5% used lubricating oil and amended with BSG, while only 55% of oil biodegradation was recorded in soil contaminated with 15% used lubricating oil and amended with BSG. Results of first-order kinetic model to determine the rate of biodegradation of used lubricating oil revealed that soil amended with BSG recorded the highest rate of oil biodegradation (0.4361 day−1) in 5% oil pollution, while BS amended soil recorded the highest rate of oil biodegradation (0.0556 day−1) in 15% oil pollution. The results of this study demonstrated the potential of BSG as a good substrate for enhanced remediation of hydrocarbon contaminated soil at low pollution concentration.
Management of Anticoagulation for Portal Vein Thrombosis in Individuals with Cirrhosis: A Systematic Review
Authors: Huard Geneviève , Bilodeau Marc
Published: June 2012

Non-neoplastic portal vein thrombosis (PVT) is an increasingly recognized complication of liver cirrhosis. It is often diagnosed fortuitously and can be either partial or complete. The clinical significance of PVT is not obvious except in some situations such as when patients are on the waiting list for liver transplantation. The only known therapy is anticoagulation which has been shown to permit the disappearance of thrombosis and to prevent further extension. Anticoagulation is a challenging therapy in individuals with liver cirrhosis because of the well-recognized coagulation abnormalities observed in that setting and because of the increased risk of bleeding, especially from gastrointestinal tract caused by portal hypertension. We herein review the current knowledge on that topic in order to highlight the advantages and disadvantages of the currently proposed therapeutic attitudes in face of the diagnosis of PVT in individuals with cirrhosis.
Influence of Weight Ratio of Poly(4‐vinylphenol) Insulator on Electronic Properties of InGaZnO Thin‐Film Transistor
Authors: Chiu C. J. , Pei Z. W. , Chang S. P. , Chang S. J.
Published: June 2012

Spin‐coated organic PVP layers were used as dielectric layers in a‐IGZO TFTs. Weight ratios of 20 : 1, 10 : 1, and 5 : 1 for PVP and PMF, a cross‐linking agent, were used. The a‐IGZO TFTs with the PVP : PMF ratio of 20 : 1 showed a large hysteresis in the I‐V curve and C‐V curve, the hysteresis increases with the increase of hydroxyl groups and also deteriorated the gate leakage current. In contrast, the devices with the PVP : PMF ratio of 5 : 1 dielectric displayed only small hysteresis. According to our experimental results, preventing the possible diffusion of hydroxyl‐contained species in polymeric dielectrics is a very important factor in improving the electrical properties of high‐performance a‐IGZO TFT devices.
Modelling Biological Systems with Competitive Coherence
Authors: Norris Vic , Engel Maurice , Demarty Maurice
Published: June 2012

Many living systems, from cells to brains to governments, are controlled by the activity of a small subset of their constituents. It has been argued that coherence is of evolutionary advantage and that this active subset of constituents results from competition between two processes, a Next process that brings about coherence over time, and a Now process that brings about coherence between the interior and the exterior of the system at a particular time. This competition has been termed competitive coherence and has been implemented in a toy-learning program in order to clarify the concept and to generate—and ultimately test—new hypotheses covering subjects as diverse as complexity, emergence, DNA replication, global mutations, dreaming, bioputing (computing using either the parts of biological system or the entire biological system), and equilibrium and nonequilibrium structures. Here, we show that a program using competitive coherence, Coco, can learn to respond to a simple input sequence 1, 2, 3, 2, 3, with responses to inputs that differ according to the position of the input in the sequence and hence require competition between both Next and Now processes.
Proximal Hypospadias Repair Outcomes in Patients with a Specific Disorder of Sexual Development Diagnosis
Authors: Palmer Blake W. , Reiner William , Kropp Brad P.
Published: June 2012

Boys with undermasculinized external genital and/or 46,XY disorders of sex development (DSD) often receive masculinizing genitoplasty. Such procedures are done to correct ventral curvature of the phallus, reposition a proximally located urethral meatus, and cosmetically correct the appearance of labioscrotal folds. No studies to date have assessed if patients with a specific DSD diagnosis have worse outcomes for severe proximal hypospadias procedures or whether or not these patients require more extensive surgical maneuvers than severe proximal hypospadias patients without a specific DSD diagnosis. We retrospectively reviewed consecutive proximal hypospadias repairs performed at our institution from 1998 to 2010 and compared the anatomy, surgical technique required for repair, and outcomes in patients with and without a definitive DSD diagnosis. Boys with a specific DSD diagnosis do have significantly more atypical anatomy when undergoing proximal hypospadias masculinizing genitoplasties. They are more likely to require associated gonad procedures but do not have an increased risk of complications or number of surgeries when compared to other proximal hypospadias patients without a specific DSD diagnosis. The risk of complications is consistent with reports in the literature, and the mean number of procedures in this contemporary study is fewer than in historic reports.
Maximum Principle for Stochastic Recursive Optimal Control Problems Involving Impulse Controls
Authors: Wu Zhen , Zhang Feng
Published: June 2012

We consider a stochastic recursive optimal control problem in which the control variable has two components: the regular control and the impulse control. The control variable does not enter the diffusion coefficient, and the domain of the regular controls is not necessarily convex. We establish necessary optimality conditions, of the Pontryagin maximum principle type, for this stochastic optimal control problem. Sufficient optimality conditions are also given. The optimal control is obtained for an example of linear quadratic optimization problem to illustrate the applications of the theoretical results.
Bioassay-Guided Isolation of Neuroprotective Compounds fromUncaria rhynchophyllaagainst Beta-Amyloid-Induced Neurotoxicity
Authors: Xian Yan-Fang , Lin Zhi-Xiu , Mao Qing-Qiu , Hu Zhen , Zhao Ming , Che Chun-Tao , Ip Siu-Po
Published: June 2012

Uncaria rhynchophyllais a component herb of many Chinese herbal formulae for the treatment of neurodegenerative diseases. Previous study in our laboratory has demonstrated that an ethanol extract ofUncaria rhynchophyllaameliorated cognitive deficits in a mouse model of Alzheimer’s disease induced by D-galactose. However, the active ingredients ofUncaria rhynchophyllaresponsible for the anti-Alzheimer’s disease activity have not been identified. This study aims to identify the active ingredients ofUncaria rhynchophyllaby a bioassay-guided fractionation approach and explore the acting mechanism of these active ingredients by using a well-established cellular model of Alzheimer’s disease, beta-amyloid- (Aβ-) induced neurotoxicity in PC12 cells. The results showed that six alkaloids, namely, corynoxine, corynoxine B, corynoxeine, isorhynchophylline, isocorynoxeine, and rhynchophylline were isolated from the extract ofUncaria rhynchophylla. Among them, rhynchophylline and isorhynchophylline significantly decreased Aβ-induced cell death, intracellular calcium overloading, and tau protein hyperphosphorylation in PC12 cells. These results suggest that rhynchophylline and isorhynchophylline are the major active ingredients responsible for the protective action ofUncaria rhynchophyllaagainst Aβ-induced neuronal toxicity, and their neuroprotective effect may be mediated, at least in part, by inhibiting intracellular calcium overloading and tau protein hyperphosphorylation.
High-Mobility Group Box 1 Induces Calcineurin-Mediated Cell Hypertrophy in Neonatal Rat Ventricular Myocytes
Authors: Su Fei-fei , Shi Miao-qian , Guo Wan-gang , Liu Xiong-tao , Wang Hong-tao , Lu Zi-fan , Zheng Qiang-sun
Published: June 2012

Cardiac hypertrophy is an independent predictor of cardiovascular morbidity and mortality. In recent years, evidences suggest that high-mobility group box 1 (HMGB1) protein, an inflammatory cytokine, participates in cardiac remodeling; however, the involvement of HMGB1 in the pathogenesis of cardiac hypertrophy remains unknown. The aim of this study was to investigate whether HMGB1 is sufficient to induce cardiomyocyte hypertrophy and to identify the possible mechanisms underlying the hypertrophic response. Cardiomyocytes isolated from 1-day-old Sprague-Dawley rats were treated with recombinant HMGB1, at concentrations ranging from 50 ng/mL to 200 ng/mL. After 24 hours, cardiomyocytes were processed for the evaluation of atrial natriuretic peptide (ANP) and calcineurin A expression. Western blot and real-time RT-PCR was used to detect protein and mRNA expression levels, respectively. The activity of calcineurin was also evaluated using a biochemical enzyme assay. HMGB1 induced cardiomyocyte hypertrophy, characterized by enhanced expression of ANP, and increased protein synthesis. Meanwhile, increased calcineurin activity and calcineurin A protein expression were observed in cardiomyocytes preconditioned with HMGB1. Furthermore, cyclosporin A pretreatment partially inhibited the HMGB1-induced cardiomyocyte hypertrophy. Our findings suggest that HMGB1 leads to cardiac hypertrophy, at least in part through activating calcineurin.
Successful Treatment with Pemetrexed, Carboplatin, and Bevacizumab for Platinum-Resistant Adenocarcinoma of the Lung
Authors: Wada Sae , Fujimoto Nobukazu , Gemba Kenichi , Asano Michiko , Fuchimoto Yasuko , Ono Katsuichiro , Ozaki Shinji , Kishimoto Takumi
Published: June 2012

We present two cases of relapsed adenocarcinoma of the lung: a 50-year-old male and a 67-year-old male. Both patients had previously been treated with platinum-containing systemic chemotherapy. In both cases, significant clinical efficacy was demonstrated with combination chemotherapy consisting of pemetrexed, carboplatin, and bevacizumab as salvage treatment. Adverse events were mild. This regimen might be a viable therapeutic option even after heavy treatment such as platinum-containing chemotherapy, especially for patients with preserved organ function and good performance status.
The Major Histocompatibility Complex in Transplantation
Authors: Ayala García Marco Antonio , González Yebra Beatriz , López Flores Andrea Liliana , Guaní Guerra Eduardo
Published: June 2012

The transplant of organs is one of the greatest therapeutic achievements of the twentieth century. In organ transplantation, the adaptive immunity is considered the main response exerted to the transplanted tissue, since the principal target of the immune response is the MHC (major histocompatibility complex) molecules expressed on the surface of donor cells. However, we should not forget that the innate and adaptive immunities are closely interrelated and should be viewed as complementary and cooperating. When a human transplant is performed, HLA (human leukocyte antigens) molecules from a donor are recognized by the recipient's immune system triggering an alloimmune response Matching of donor and recipient for MHC antigens has been shown to have a significant positive effect on graft acceptance. This paper will present MHC, the innate and adaptive immunities, and clinical HLA testing.
Immunocytes as a Biocarrier to Delivery Therapeutic and Imaging Contrast Agents to Tumors
Authors: Choi Jinhyang , Woo Ha-Na , Ju Eun Jin , Jung Joohee , Chung Hye-Kyung , Park Jaesook , Park Seok Soon , Shin Seol Hwa , Park Hye Ji , Lee Jin Seong , Song Si Yeol , Jeong Seong-Yun , Choi Eun Kyung
Published: June 2012

Radiotherapy for cancer treatment has been used for primary or adjuvant treatment in many types of cancer, and approximately half of all cancer patients are undergoing radiation. However, ionizing radiation exposure induces genetic alterations in cancer cells and results in recruitment of monocytes/macrophages by triggering signals released from these cells. Using this characteristic of monocytes/macrophages, we have attempted to develop a biocarrier loading radiosensitizing anticancer agents that can lead to enhance the therapeutic effect of radiation in cancer treatment. The aim of this study is to demonstrate the proof of this concept. THP‐1 labeled with Qdot 800 or iron oxide (IO) effectively migrated into tumors of subcutaneous mouse model and increased recruitment after ionizing radiation. Functionalized liposomes carrying a radiosensitizing anticancer agent, doxorubicin, are successfully loaded in THP‐1 (THP‐1‐LP‐Dox) with reduced cytotoxicity, and THP‐1‐LP‐Dox also was observed in tumors after intravenous administration. Here, we report that monocytes/macrophages as a biocarrier can be used as a selective tool for amplification of the therapeutic effects on radiotherapy for human cancer treatment.
A Male Aggregation Pheromone in the Bronze Bug,Thaumastocoris peregrinus(Thaumastocoridae)
Authors: González Andrés , Calvo María Victoria , Cal Valeria , Hernández Verónica , Doño Florencia , Alves Leticia , Gamenara Daniela , Rossini Carmen , Martínez Gonzalo
Published: June 2012

Forest plantations in Uruguay have doubled in the past decade, withEucalyptusspp. leading this growth. The bronze bug,Thaumastocoris peregrinus(Heteroptera: Thaumastocoridae), originally restricted to Australia, is an important emerging pest ofEucalyptusplantations in the Southern hemisphere.T. peregrinusfeeds on matureEucalyptusleaves, causing them to turn brown and often fall from the tree. Although population dynamics and behavioural patterns are not clearly understood, circumstantial observations suggest that males and nymphs aggregate. We used gas chromatography coupled to mass spectrometry to analyze volatile organic compounds emitted by virgin males and females, and characterized a male-specific compound, 3-methylbut-2-enyl butanoate, based on mass spectral data and chromatographic comparison with a synthetic standard. We also performed Y-olfactometer bioassays to test the attraction of virgin males and females toward live virgin males, male volatile extracts, and synthetic 3-methylbut-2-enyl butanoate. Males were attracted toward conspecific males, while virgin females showed no preference, suggesting that male volatiles are not involved in sexual communication. Further olfactometer tests showed that males were attracted to male volatile extracts and to synthetic 3-methylbut-2-enyl butanoate. The ecological significance of this compound and its potential use for the management ofT. peregrinusinEucalyptusforests will be further investigated.
Multiple Solutions for a Class of Differential Inclusion System Involving the (p(x), q(x))‐Laplacian
Authors: Ge Bin , Shen Ji-Hong
Published: June 2012

We consider a differential inclusion system involving the (p(x), q(x))‐Laplacian with Dirichlet boundary condition on a bounded domain and obtain two nontrivial solutions under appropriate hypotheses. Our approach is variational and it is based on the nonsmooth critical point theory for locally Lipschitz functions.