bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Local Response to Microneedle-Based Influenza Immunization in the Skin
Authors: del Pilar Martin Maria , Weldon William C. , Zarnitsyn Vladimir G. , Koutsonanos Dimitrios G. , Akbari Hamed , Skountzou Ioanna , Jacob Joshy , Prausnitz Mark R. , Compans Richard W.
Published: March 2012

Microneedle patches (MN) provide a novel method of vaccine delivery to the skin with the objective of targeting the large network of resident antigen-presenting cells to induce an efficient immune response. Our previous reports demonstrated that cutaneous delivery of inactivated influenza virus-coated MN to mice protects against lethal infection. Protection is correlated with sustained levels of anti-influenza virus serum antibodies, hemagglutination inhibition titers, and robust cellular responses that are often stronger than those generated by intramuscular vaccination. Here we dissect the early events occurring in murine skin after microneedle delivery of inactivated influenza virus. We demonstrate correlation of immunization against influenza virus with a local increase of cytokines important for recruitment of neutrophils, monocytes and dendritic cells at the site of immunization. We also observed prolonged antigen deposition, and migration of matured dendritic cells bearing influenza virus antigen from the skin.

IMPORTANCEThe immunological mechanisms by which MN vaccination confers protective immunity are not well understood. The present study provides a first analysis of the early immune events after microneedle-based vaccination.
Working Safely with H5N1 Viruses
Authors: García-Sastre Adolfo
Published: March 2012

Research on H5N1 influenza viruses has received much attention recently due to the possible dangers associated with newly developed avian H5N1 viruses that were derived from highly pathogenic avian viruses and are now transmissible among ferrets via respiratory droplets. An appropriate discussion, based on scientific facts about the risks that such viruses pose and on the biocontainment facilities and practices necessary for working safely with these viruses, is needed. Selecting the right level of biocontainment is critical for minimizing the risks associated with H5N1 research while simultaneously allowing an appropriately fast pace of discovery. Rational countermeasures for preventing the spread of influenza can be developed only by gaining a thorough knowledge of the molecular mechanisms at work in host specificity and transmission.
A systematic review with meta-analysis of comprehensive interventions for preschool children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD): study protocol: Figure 1
Authors: Tachibana Yoshiyuki , Green Jonathan , Hwang Yeonhee , Emsley Richard
Published: March 2012

Introduction

The aims of this study are to (1) conduct a systematic review of the intervention literature in preschool children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), including types of interventions that are tested and the classification of outcome measures used and (2) to undertake a meta-analysis of the studies, allowing for the first time the comparison of different approaches to intervention using comparative outcomes. There are a number of alternative modalities of intervention for preschool children with ASD in use with different theoretical background and orientation, each of which tend to use different trial designs and outcome measures. There is at this time an urgent need for comprehensive systematic review and meta-analyses of intervention studies for preschool children with ASD, covering studies of adequate quality across different intervention types and measurement methods, with a view to identifying the best current evidence for preschool interventions in the disorder.

Methods and analysis

The authors will perform a systematic review of randomised controlled trials for preschool children with ASD aged 0–6 years, along with a meta-analysis of qualifying studies across intervention modality. The authors will classify the interventions for preschool children with ASD under three models: behaviour, multimodal developmental and communication focused. First, the authors will perform a systematic review. Then, the authors will conduct a meta-analysis by comparing the three models with various outcomes using an inverse variance method in a random effect model. The authors will synthesise each outcome of the studies for the three models using standardised mean differences.

Dissemination and ethics

This study will identify each intervention's strengths and weaknesses. This study may also suggest what kinds of elements future intervention programmes for children with ASD should have. The authors strongly believe those findings will be able to translated into the clinical practices and patients and their family benefits. Review registration: PROSPERO CRD42011001349.
Improving paediatric pain management: introducing the ‘Pain Passport’
Authors: Newstead Beth A , Armitage Sarah , Appelboam Andrew
Published: March 2012

The ‘Pain Passport’ is a novel method of improving the management of pain in children. It consists of a leaflet carried by the patient which records serial pain scores. It attempts to empower patients and prompt medical and nursing staff to evaluate the child's pain. Preliminary audit data in support of this concept are encouraging.
Effect of gamma radiation on morphological, biochemical, and physiological aspects of plants and plant products
Authors: Jan Sumira , Parween Talat , Siddiqi T.O. , Mahmooduzzafar
Published: March 2012

Research on the basic interaction of radiation with biological systems has contributed to human society through various applications in medicine, agriculture, pharmaceuticals and in other technological developments. In the agricultural sciences and food technology sectors, recent research has elucidated the new potential application of radiation for microbial decontamination due to the inhibitory effect of radiation on microbial infestation. The last few decades have witnessed a large number of pertinent works regarding the utilization of radiation with special interest in γ-rays for evolution of superior varieties of agricultural crops of economic importance. In this review, general information will be presented about radiation, such as plant specificity, dose response, beneficial effects, and lethality. A comparison of different studies has clarified how the effects observed after exposure were deeply influenced by several factors, some related to plant characteristics (e.g., species, cultivar, stage of development, tissue architecture, and genome organization) and some related to radiation features (e.g., quality, dose, duration of exposure). There are many beneficial uses of radiation that offer few risks when properly employed. In this review, we report the main results from studies on the effect of γ-irradiations on plants, focusing on metabolic alterations, modifications of growth and development, and changes in biochemical pathways especially physiological behaviour.
Biofiltration of methane and trace gases from landfills: A review
Authors: Ménard Camille , Ramirez Antonio Avalos , Nikiema Josiane , Heitz Michèle
Published: March 2012

Concerns about biogas from landfills are reviewed in terms of biogas generation, composition, and elimination. Biogas is mainly composed of methane and carbon dioxide but it also contains a few hundred non-methane organic compounds. The solutions available to reduce its harmful effects on the environment and on human health are valorization as electricity or heat, flaring, or biofiltration. The main parameters affecting the biofiltration of methane are reviewed: temperature, moisture content, properties of the packing material, nutrient supply, oxygen requirements, formation of exopolysaccharides, and gas residence time. An analysis is performed on the co-metabolic properties and the inhibition interactions of the methane-degrading bacteria, methanotrophs.
Non-physical barriers to deter fish movements
Authors: Noatch Matthew R. , Suski Cory D.
Published: March 2012

Anthropogenic modifications to aquatic ecosystems have altered connecting pathways within, and in some cases, between watersheds. Human structures, such as hydroelectric facilities, often impede fish migrations and may inflict heavy mortality on fish that become impinged or entrained. Conversely, an increase in connectivity between two waterways (e.g., through the construction of shipping canals, increased boat traffic) often results in an elevated risk of invasive species introductions. Non-physical barriers, which obstruct fish from an undesirable location without influencing the waterway, are one management approach to protecting valuable fish stocks and deterring biological invasions. Because many methods of behavioral deterrence have been employed against fish, there is a need to summarize and compare existing and developing technologies. This review details the use and application of electrical, visual, acoustic, chemical, and hydrological deterrence techniques that may be used to prevent fish movements. Site requirements are discussed, and a critical assessment of benefits and limitations to each technique are given. Because no single method of fish deterrence is “one size fits all”, this review to non-physical fish barrier technology will benefit managers and researchers attempting to develop a best-fit strategy on a case-by-case basis.
Selective fertilization in interspecific crosses of allotetraploid species of Gossypium
Authors: Pereira G.S. , Sousa R.L. , Araújo R.L. , Hoffmann L.V. , Silva E.F. , Barroso P.A.V.
Published: March 2012

The genus Gossypium is composed of both diploid and allotetraploid species. The five allotetraploid species of Gossypium are sexually compatible, and only partial sexual barriers have been described. Natural hybrids among them do not occur or occur in situ with very low frequency in Brazil in the rare places where cultivated upland cotton ( Gossypium hirsutum L.) occurs in a sympatric range with Gossypium barbadense L. or Gossypium mustelinum Miers. We evaluated the presence of pollen competition as a prezygotic barrier in crosses between upland cotton and G. barbadense and G. mustelinum. We found that G. barbadense pollinated with a mixture of 50% upland cotton and 50% G. barbadense pollen resulted in 17.4%–31.1% interspecific hybrids, depending upon the upland cotton genotype used as pollen donor. Mixtures containing pollen from G. mustelinum and upland cotton, used to pollinate G. mustelinum in proportions of 25%:75%, 50%:50%, and 75%:25%, produced 61.3%, 22.5%, and 3.6% interspecific hybrids, respectively. These low rates of hybrid production demonstrate that pollen competition is present with G. mustelinum and G. barbadense and confirms this mechanism as a sexual barrier.
Calcul de composition de plasmas thermiques d’arc électrique de mélanges d’air et de vapeur d’eau
Authors: Kagoné Abdoul Karim , Koalaga Zacharie , Zougmoré François
Published: March 2012

La composition de plasmas thermiques d’arcs électriques de mélanges d’air et de vapeur d’eau dans une gamme de température électronique allant de 5000 à 30 000 K est calculée pour des pressions de 1, 5 et 10 atm (1 atm = 101,325 kPa). Les plasmas étudiés étant considérés hors d’équilibre thermique, le calcul de la composition est effectué pour des déséquilibres thermiques θ = 1, 1,2 et 1,5 par deux méthodes de calcul à savoir celles de Chen et de Potapov. Le déséquilibre thermique θ est défini comme suit : θ = Te/Th où Te représente la température cinétique des électrons et Th celle des particules lourdes (molécules, atomes et ions). Les résultats obtenus sont analysés et discutés en fonction des méthodes de calcul utilisées, du déséquilibre thermique, de la pression et de la proportion initiale de la vapeur d’eau dans le mélange ayant donné naissance au plasma. L’influence de la méthode de calcul à deux températures, du déséquilibre thermique et de la pression sur la composition chimique des plasmas des mélanges étudiés est mise en évidence. Les résultats du calcul de la composition montrent en particulier que la densité numérique d’atomes d’hydrogène croît bien avec la proportion en vapeur d’eau dans le mélange.
Variable speed of light cosmology as a solution to the Pioneer anomaly
Authors: Shojaie Hossein
Published: March 2012

It is shown that the Pioneer anomaly is a natural consequence of variable speed of light cosmological models wherein the speed of light is assumed to be a power-law function of the scale factor (or cosmic time). In other words, the Pioneer anomaly can be regarded as a nongravitational effect of the continuously decreasing speed of light, which shows itself as an anomalous light propagation time delay in local frames. This time delay is accordingly interpreted as an additional Doppler blue shift.
Characterization and structural studies of vanadium doped lithium–barium–phosphate glasses
Authors: Lakshmikantha R. , Rajaramakrishna R. , Anavekar R.V. , Ayachit N.H.
Published: March 2012

Characterization and structural studies of (P2O5)49.5(V2O5)0.5(BaO)x(Li2O)50–x (where x = 0, 5, 10, 15, 20, 25 mol%) glasses are reported. These glasses were prepared using the conventional melt quenching technique. X-ray diffraction and differential scanning calorimetry measurements were performed to confirm their amorphous nature. Infrared spectra of these glasses show absorption peaks in the ranges 1273–1267; 1098–1088; 1008–1018; 899–889; and 795–760 and 506–474 cm–1 corresponding to P=O, P–O–, (P–O–P)S, (P–O–P)AS, and O–P–O group vibrations, respectively. Thermal stability factor (s) has been evaluated using the values of Tg and Tc. These glasses exhibit high transition temperature (Tg) and high thermal stability factor (s) indicating that they are thermally stable. Refractive index of the glasses lies in the range 1.59–1.49. Electron paramagnetic resonance spectroscopy of V4+ show characteristic hyperfine split signal arising from the vanadyl group in this glass matrix. The results are discussed by considering the structural modification of the phosphate network.
Effect of deposition conditions on physical properties of SnO2 thin films prepared using the spray pyrolysis technique
Authors: Memarian N. , Rozati S.M.
Published: March 2012

In this study, physical properties of tin oxide thin films, which are prepared using the spray pyrolysis technique, have been analyzed. The effects of substrate temperature and precursor molarity on optoelectrical and structural properties of the films have been investigated. X-ray diffraction analysis revealed a polycrystalline nature with tetragonal structure. It also showed that the preferential growth directions of the films were dependent on the deposition conditions. By using scanning electron microscopy analysis, the surface morphology of the films was observed as an effect of the variation of deposition conditions. The optical and electrical properties of the films were studied by transmission spectra and Hall effect measurement, respectively. Films of about 6 × 10−3 Ω cm resistivity and high visible transparency of about 86% have been obtained at the optimum substrate temperature of 550 °C and precursor molarity of 0.3 mol/L.
Charge transfer and ionization in collisions of O8+ ions with excited He atoms
Authors: Wang Fei , Wang Miao-miao
Published: March 2012

Two-centre atomic orbital close-coupling calculations are carried out for the cross sections of single electron capture and single ionization in O8+ + He(1s1s) and O8+ + He(1s3d) collisions in the velocity range from 0.6 to 2.0 a.u. The relative importance of single ionization to single capture are investigated for both systems. Our calculations are in good agreement with experimental data of O8+ + He(1s1s) collision. The ratio curves also show us distinct behavior between the two collision systems. The partial electron capture cross sections for O8+ + He(1s3d) collision indicate that, corresponding with the astrophysical conclusion, most of the l-levels are populated statistically for energies greater than 10 keV, and some distributions of lower n at low collision energy show a trend close to the binomial distribution.
Duffin–Kemmer–Petiau equation under a scalar and vector Hulthen potential; an ansatz solution to the corresponding Heun equation
Authors: Hassanabadi H. , Forouhandeh S.F. , Rahimov H. , Zarrinkamar S. , Yazarloo B.H.
Published: March 2012

Approximate analytical solutions of the spin-zero version of the Duffin–Kemmer–Petiau (DKP) equation are obtained via an elegant ansatz after successive transformations for the ground state. As the DKP equation under a scalar term appears as a differential equation that is more complicated than that of the Klein–Gordon equation, the solutions might open new insights to the corresponding physics.
Equilibrium properties, variational principles, and linear stability for steady-state, two-dimensional, ideal gravitating plasma of a barotropic compressible flow
Authors: Moawad S.M.
Published: March 2012

The equilibrium and stability properties of a planar gravitating plasma in the theory of ideal magnetohydrodynamic flows are investigated. The flow is taken to be barotropic. Variational principles for the steady state equations of aligned magnetic field and plasma flow are formulated. A simple and efficient way is proposed for investigating the stability properties of this state. Sufficient conditions for linear stability of the steady-state flow are obtained.
More than a store: regulatory roles for glycogen in skeletal muscle adaptation to exercise
Authors: Philp Andrew , Hargreaves Mark , Baar Keith
Published: March 2012

The glycogen content of muscle determines not only our capacity for exercise but also the signaling events that occur in response to exercise. The result of the shift in signaling is that frequent training in a low-glycogen state results in improved fat oxidation during steady-state submaximal exercise. This review will discuss how the amount or localization of glycogen particles can directly or indirectly result in this differential response to training. The key direct effect discussed is carbohydrate binding, whereas the indirect effects include the metabolic shift toward fat oxidation, the increase in catecholamines, and osmotic stress. Although our understanding of the role of glycogen in response to training has expanded exponentially over the past 5 years, there are still many questions remaining as to how stored carbohydrate affects the muscular adaptation to exercise.
Macrophage-specific transgenic expression of cholesteryl ester hydrolase attenuates hepatic lipid accumulation and also improves glucose tolerance in ob/ob mice
Authors: Bie Jinghua , Zhao Bin , Marqueen Kathryn E. , Wang Jing , Szomju Barbara , Ghosh Shobha
Published: March 2012

Cellular cholesterol homeostasis is increasingly being recognized as an important determinant of the inflammatory status of macrophages, and a decrease in cellular cholesterol levels polarizes macrophages toward an anti-inflammatory or M2 phenotype. Cholesteryl ester hydrolase (CEH) catalyzes the hydrolysis of stored intracellular cholesteryl esters (CE) and thereby enhances free cholesterol efflux and reduces cellular CE content. We have reported earlier reduced atherosclerosis as well as lesion necrosis and improved insulin sensitivity (due to decreased adipose tissue inflammation) in macrophage-specific CEH transgenic (CEHTg) mice in the LDLR−/− background. In the present study, we examined the effects of reduced intracellular accumulation of CE in CEHTg macrophages in an established diabetic mouse model, namely the leptin-deficient ob/ob mouse. Macrophage-specific transgenic expression of CEH improved glucose tolerance in ob/ob-CEHTg mice significantly compared with ob/ob nontransgenic littermates, but with no apparent change in macrophage infiltration into the adipose tissue. However, there was a significant decrease in hepatic lipid accumulation in ob/ob-CEHTg mice. Consistently, decreased [14C]acetate incorporation into total lipids and triglycerides was noted in precision-cut liver slices from ob/ob-CEHTg mice. In the primary hepatocyte-macrophage coculture system, macrophages from CEHTg mice significantly reduced the incorporation of [14C]acetate into triglycerides in hepatocytes, indicating a direct effect of macrophages on hepatocyte triglyceride biosynthesis. Kupffer cells isolated from ob/ob-CEHTg mice were polarized toward an anti-inflammatory M2 (Ly6Clo) phenotype. Taken together, these studies demonstrate that transgenic overexpression of CEH in macrophages polarizes hepatic macrophages (Kupffer cells) to an anti-inflammatory M2 phenotype that attenuates hepatic lipid synthesis and accumulation.
Mitochondrial signaling contributes to disuse muscle atrophy
Authors: Powers Scott K. , Wiggs Michael P. , Duarte Jose A. , Zergeroglu A. Murat , Demirel Haydar A.
Published: March 2012

It is well established that long durations of bed rest, limb immobilization, or reduced activity in respiratory muscles during mechanical ventilation results in skeletal muscle atrophy in humans and other animals. The idea that mitochondrial damage/dysfunction contributes to disuse muscle atrophy originated over 40 years ago. These early studies were largely descriptive and did not provide unequivocal evidence that mitochondria play a primary role in disuse muscle atrophy. However, recent experiments have provided direct evidence connecting mitochondrial dysfunction to muscle atrophy. Numerous studies have described changes in mitochondria shape, number, and function in skeletal muscles exposed to prolonged periods of inactivity. Furthermore, recent evidence indicates that increased mitochondrial ROS production plays a key signaling role in both immobilization-induced limb muscle atrophy and diaphragmatic atrophy occurring during prolonged mechanical ventilation. Moreover, new evidence reveals that, during denervation-induced muscle atrophy, increased mitochondrial fragmentation due to fission is a required signaling event that activates the AMPK-FoxO3 signaling axis, which induces the expression of atrophy genes, protein breakdown, and ultimately muscle atrophy. Collectively, these findings highlight the importance of future research to better understand the mitochondrial signaling mechanisms that contribute to disuse muscle atrophy and to develop novel therapeutic interventions for prevention of inactivity-induced skeletal muscle atrophy.
Minced Umbilical Cord Fragments as a Source of Cells for Orthopaedic Tissue Engineering: An In Vitro Study
Authors: Marmotti A. , Mattia S. , Bruzzone M. , Buttiglieri S. , Risso A. , Bonasia D. E. , Blonna D. , Castoldi F. , Rossi R. , Zanini C. , Ercole E. , Defabiani E. , Tarella C. , Peretti G. M.
Published: March 2012

A promising approach for musculoskeletal repair and regeneration is mesenchymal-stem-cell- (MSC-)based tissue engineering. The aim of the study was to apply a simple protocol based on mincing the umbilical cord (UC), without removing any blood vessels or using any enzymatic digestion, to rapidly obtain an adequate number of multipotent UC-MSCs. We obtained, at passage 1 (P1), a mean value of4,2×106cells (SD 0,4) from each UC. At immunophenotypic characterization, cells were positive for CD73, CD90, CD105, CD44, CD29, and HLA-I and negative for CD34 and HLA-class II, with a subpopulation negative for both HLA-I and HLA-II. Newborn origin and multilineage potential toward bone, fat, cartilage, and muscle was demonstrated. Telomere length was similar to that of bone-marrow (BM) MSCs from young donors. The results suggest that simply collecting UC-MSCs at P1 from minced umbilical cord fragments allows to achieve a valuable population of cells suitable for orthopaedic tissue engineering.
Nanotechnology in Medicine: From Inception to Market Domination
Authors: Morigi Valentina , Tocchio Alessandro , Bellavite Pellegrini Carlo , Sakamoto Jason H. , Arnone Marco , Tasciotti Ennio
Published: March 2012

Born from the marriage of nanotechnology and medicine, nanomedicine is set to bring advantages in the fight against unmet diseases. The field is recognized as a global challenge, and countless worldwide research and business initiatives are in place to obtain a significant market position. However, nanomedicine belongs to those emerging sectors in which business development methods have not been established yet. Open issues include which type of business model best fits these companies and which strategies would lead them to sustained growth.
This paper describes the financial and strategic decisions by nanomedicine start-ups to reach the market successfully, obtain a satisfactory market share, and build and maintain a competitive defendable advantage. Walking nanomedicine-product from the hands of the inventor to those of the doctor, we explored the technological transfer process, which connects laboratories or research institutions to the marketplace. The process involves detailed analysis to evaluate the potentials of end-products, and researches to identify market segment, size, structure, and competitors, to ponder a possible market entry and the market share that managers can realistically achieve at different time horizons. Attracting funds is crucial but challenging. However, investors are starting to visualize the potentials of this field, magnetized by the business of “nano.”
Residual Iterative Method for Solving Absolute Value Equations
Authors: Noor Muhammad Aslam , Iqbal Javed , Al-Said Eisa
Published: March 2012

We suggest and analyze a residual iterative method for solving absolute value equations Ax − |x| = b where A ∈ Rn×n, b ∈ Rn are given and x ∈ Rn is unknown, using the projection technique. We also discuss the convergence of the proposed method. Several examples are given to illustrate the implementation and efficiency of the method. Comparison with other methods is also given. Results proved in this paper may stimulate further research in this fascinating field.
Numerical Investigation of the System-Matrix Method for Higher-Order Probe Correction in Spherical Near-Field Antenna Measurements
Authors: Hansen Thorkild B.
Published: March 2012

The system-matrix method for higher-order probe correction in spherical near-field scanning is based on a renormalized least-squares approach in which the normal matrix closely resembles the identity matrix when most of the energy of the probe pattern resides in the first-order modes. This method will be “stressed-tested” in the present paper by employing probes for which up to 49% of the pattern energy resides in the higher-order modes. The condition number of the resulting normal matrix will be computed, and its “distance” from the identity matrix displayed. It is also shown how the condition number of the normal matrix can be further reduced.
Minimization of Vectors of Curvilinear Functionals on Second‐Order Jet Bundle: Dual Program Theory
Authors: Postolache Mihai
Published: March 2012

A previous paper (2011), Pitea and
Postolache, considered the problem of minimization of vectors of curvilinear functionals
(well known as mechanical work), thought as multitime multiobjective variational
problem, subject to PDE and/or PDI constraints. They have chosen the suitable framework
offered by the second‐order jet bundle, and initiated an optimization theory for
this class of problems by introducing necessary conditions. As natural continuation
of these results, the present work introduces a dual program theory, the general setting, and the theory which is new as a whole, containing our
results.
Analytic Approximations for the Flows and Heat Transfer in Microchannels between Two Parallel Plates
Authors: El-Nahhas A.
Published: March 2012

We consider the nonlinear problem for the flow of Newtonian fluid in a microchannel between two parallel plates with the effects of velocity slip, viscous dissipation, and temperature jump at the wall. This problem is modelled by both the
Navier‐Stokes equation and energy equation with two thermal boundary conditions related to the two cases: the constant wall temperature (CWT) and the constant heat flux
(CHF). The homotopy analysis method is applied via a polynomial exponential basis to obtain analytic approximations for this problem. A rarefaction effects on the velocity profile and the flow friction are investigated. Also, as a result of the application, the effects, on the Nusselt number Nu, with variation in Brinkman number Br and Knudsen number Kn for both (CWT) case and (CHF) case are discussed.
The Role of Leptin in Antipsychotic-Induced Weight Gain: Genetic and Non-Genetic Factors
Authors: Panariello Fabio , Polsinelli Gina , Borlido Carol , Monda Marcellino , De Luca Vincenzo
Published: March 2012

Schizophrenia is a chronic and disabling mental illness affecting millions of people worldwide. A greater proportion of people with schizophrenia tends to be overweight. Antipsychotic medications have been considered the primary risk factor for obesity in schizophrenia, although the mechanisms by which they increase weight and produce metabolic disturbances are unclear. Several lines of research indicate that leptin could be a good candidate involved in pathways linking antipsychotic treatment and weight gain. Leptin is a circulating hormone released by adipocytes in response to increased fat deposition to regulate body weight, acting through receptors in the hypothalamus. In this work, we reviewed preclinical, clinical, and genetic data in order to infer the potential role played by leptin in antipsychotic-induced weight gain considering two main hypotheses: (1) leptin is an epiphenomenon of weight gain; (2) leptin is a consequence of antipsychotic-induced “leptin-resistance status,” causing weight gain.
Modified Huo-Luo-Xiao-Ling Dan Suppresses Adjuvant Arthritis by Inhibiting Chemokines and Matrix-Degrading Enzymes
Authors: Nanjundaiah Siddaraju M. , Lee David Y.-W. , Ma Zhongze , Fong Harry H. S. , Lao Lixing , Berman Brian M. , Moudgil Kamal D.
Published: March 2012

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic inflammatory disease affecting the joints that can lead to deformities and disability. The prolonged use of conventionally used drugs is associated with severe adverse reactions. Therefore, safer and less expensive therapeutic products are continually being sought. Huo-Luo-Xiao-Ling dan (HLXL), a traditional Chinese herbal mixture, and its modified versions possess anti-arthritic activity. In this paper, we examined the influence of modified HLXL on two of the key mediators of arthritic inflammation and tissue damage, namely, chemokines and matrix-metalloproteinases (MMPs) in the rat adjuvant-induced arthritis (AA) model of RA. We treated arthritic Lewis rats with HLXL (2.3 g/kg) by daily gavage beginning at the onset of AA. The control rats received the vehicle. At the peak phase of AA, rats were sacrificed and their draining lymph node cells (LNC) and spleen adherent cells (SAC) were tested. The HLXL-treated rats showed a significant reduction in the levels of chemokines (RANTES, MCP-1, MIP-1α, and GRO/KC), MMPs (MMP 2 and 9), as well as cytokines (IL-6 and IL-17) that induce them, compared to the control vehicle-treated rats. Thus, HLXL controls arthritis in part by suppressing the mediators of immune pathology, and it might offer a promising alternative/adjunct treatment for RA.
Gold Nanoparticles as Probes for Nano-Raman Spectroscopy: Preliminary Experimental Results and Modeling
Authors: Le Nader V. , Mevellec J.-Y. , Minea T. , Louarn G.
Published: March 2012

This paper presents an effective Tip-Enhanced Raman Spectrometer (TERS) in backscattering reflection configuration. It combines a tip-probe nanopositioning system with Raman spectroscope. Specific tips were processed by anchoring gold nanoparticles on the apex of tapered optical fibers, prepared by an improved chemical etching method. Hence, it is possible to expose a very small area of the sample (~20 nm2) to the very strong local electromagnetic field generated by the lightning rod effect. This experimental configuration was modelled and optimised using the finite element method, which takes into account electromagnetic effects as well as the plasmon resonance. Finally, TERS measurements on single-wall carbon nanotubes were successfully performed. These results confirm the high Raman scattering enhancement predicted by the modelling, induced by our new nano-Raman device.
Multiband Prediction Model for Financial Time Series with Multivariate Empirical Mode Decomposition
Authors: Islam Md. Rabiul , Rashed-Al-Mahfuz Md. , Ahmad Shamim , Molla Md. Khademul Islam
Published: March 2012

This paper presents a subband approach to financial time series prediction. Multivariate empirical mode decomposition (MEMD) is employed here for multiband representation of multichannel financial time series together. Autoregressive moving average (ARMA) model is used in prediction of individual subband of any time series data. Then all the predicted subband signals are summed up to obtain the overall prediction. The ARMA model works better for stationary signal. With multiband representation, each subband becomes a band‐limited (narrow band) signal and hence better prediction is achieved. The performance of the proposed MEMD‐ARMA model is compared with classical EMD, discrete wavelet transform (DWT), and with full band ARMA model in terms of signal‐to‐noise ratio (SNR) and mean square error (MSE) between the original and predicted time series. The simulation results show that the MEMD‐ARMA‐based method performs better than the other methods.
Age-related and Individual Variation in MalePiezodorus hybneri(Heteroptera: Pentatomidae) Pheromones
Authors: Endo Nobuyuki , Yasuda Tetsuya , Wada Takashi , Muto Shin-etsu , Sasaki Rikiya
Published: March 2012

Males of thePiezodorus hybneristink bug produce a pheromone comprisingβ-sesquiphellandrene (Sesq), (R)-15-hexadecanolide (R15), and methyl (Z)-8-hexadecenoate (Z8). We collected airborne volatiles from individualP. hybnerimales and analyzed them by GC-MS. Daily analysis from 1 to 16 days after adult emergence showed that pheromone emission started around 3 to 6 days after adult emergence and peaked (~1 μg/male/day) on day 11. The proportion of Sesq tended to increase with age to about 80% on days 12 to 16. On the other hand, the proportion of R15 tended to decrease with age. The proportion of Z8 reached a maximum of about 34% on day 9 but otherwise remained below 20%. The total amount of pheromone emitted by individual males varied considerably: three males emitted more than 10 μg, whereas another three males emitted little or no pheromone and failed to survive by the end of the experiment. These results suggest that the amount ofP. hybneripheromone and its blend ratio could be affected by the male’s physical conditions, such as vitality and age.
A First-Principles-Based Potential for the Description of Alkaline Earth Metals
Authors: Dieterich Johannes M. , Gerke Sebastian , Mata Ricardo A.
Published: March 2012

We present a set of Gupta potentials fitted against highest-level ab initio data for interactions
of the alkaline earth metals: beryllium, magnesium, and calcium. Reference potential energy curves
have been computed for both pure and mixed dimers with the coupled cluster method including
corrections for basic set incompleteness and relativistic effects. To demonstrate their usability for
the efficient description of high-dimensional complex energy landscapes, the obtained potentials
have been used for the global optimization of 38- and 42-atom clusters. Both pure and mixed
compositions (binary and ternary clusters) were investigated. Distinctive trends in the structure of
the latter are discussed.
Throughput Maximization of Queueing Networks with Simultaneous Minimization of Service Rates and Buffers
Authors: Cruz F. R. B. , Kendall G. , While L. , Duarte A. R. , Brito N. L. C.
Published: March 2012

The throughput of an acyclic, general‐service time queueing network was optimized, and the total number of buffers and the overall service rate was reduced. To satisfy these conflicting objectives, a multiobjective genetic algorithm was developed and employed. Thus, our method produced a set of efficient solutions for more than one objective in the objective function. A comprehensive set of computational experiments was conducted to determine the efficacy and efficiency of the proposed approach. Interesting insights obtained from the analysis of a complex network may assist practitioners in planning general‐service queueing networks.
Gauge Boson Mixing in the 3-3-1 Models with Discrete Symmetries
Authors: Dong P. V. , Huyen V. T. N. , Long H. N. , Thuy H. V.
Published: March 2012

The mixing among gauge bosons in the 3-3-1 models with the discrete symmetries is investigated. To get tribimaximal neutrino mixing, we have to introduce sextets containing neutral scalar components with lepton numberL=1,2. Assignation of VEVs to these fields leads to the mixing of the new gauge bosons and those in the standard model. The mixing in the charged gauge bosons leads to the lepton number violating interactions of theWboson. The same situation happens in the neutral gauge boson sector.
MyrmicaAnts and Their Butterfly Parasites with Special Focus on the Acoustic Communication
Authors: Barbero F. , Patricelli D. , Witek M. , Balletto E. , Casacci L. P. , Sala M. , Bonelli S.
Published: March 2012

About 10,000 arthropod species live as ants' social parasites and have evolved a number of mechanisms allowing them to penetrate and survive inside the ant nests.Myrmicacolonies, in particular, are exploited by numerous social parasites, and the presence of their overwintering brood, as well as of their polygyny, contributes to make them more vulnerable to infestation. Butterflies of the genusMaculineaare among the most investigatedMyrmicainquilines. These lycaenids are known for their very complex biological cycles.Maculineaspecies are obligated parasites that depend on a particular food plant and on a specificMyrmicaspecies for their survival.Maculinealarvae are adopted byMyrmicaants, which are induced to take them into their nests by chemical mimicry. Then the parasite spends the following 11–23 months inside the ants' nest. Mimicking the acoustic emission of the queen ants,Maculineaparasites not only manage to become integrated, but attain highest rank within the colony. Here we review the biology ofMaculinea/Myrmicasystem with a special focus on some recent breakthrough concerning their acoustical patterns.
Temporal Lobe Epilepsy Semiology
Authors: Blair Robert D. G.
Published: March 2012

Epilepsy represents a multifaceted group of disorders divided into two broad categories, partial and generalized, based on the seizure onset zone. The identification of the neuroanatomic site of seizure onset depends on delineation of seizure semiology by a careful history together with video-EEG, and a variety of neuroimaging technologies such as MRI, fMRI, FDG-PET, MEG, or invasive intracranial EEG recording. Temporal lobe epilepsy (TLE) is the commonest form of focal epilepsy and represents almost 2/3 of cases of intractable epilepsy managed surgically. A history of febrile seizures (especially complex febrile seizures) is common in TLE and is frequently associated with mesial temporal sclerosis (the commonest form of TLE). Seizure auras occur in many TLE patients and often exhibit features that are relatively specific for TLE but few are of lateralizing value. Automatisms, however, often have lateralizing significance. Careful study of seizure semiology remains invaluable in addressing the search for the seizure onset zone.
The Diversity of Endophytic Methylotrophic Bacteria in an Oil-Contaminated and an Oil-Free Mangrove Ecosystem and Their Tolerance to Heavy Metals
Authors: Dourado Manuella Nobrega , Ferreira Anderson , Araújo Welington Luiz , Azevedo João Lúcio , Lacava Paulo Teixeira
Published: March 2012

Methylobacterium strains were isolated from mangrove samples collected in Bertioga, SP, Brazil, from locations either contaminated or uncontaminated by oil spills. The tolerances of the strains to different heavy metals were assessed by exposing them to different concentrations of cadmium, lead, and arsenic (0.1 mM, 0.5 mM, 1 mM, 2 mM, 4 mM, and 8 mM). Additionally, the genetic diversity of Methylobacterium spp. was determined by sequence analysis of the 16S rRNA genes. The isolates from the contaminated locations were grouped, suggesting that oil can select for microorganisms that tolerate oil components and can change the methylotrophic bacterial community. Cadmium is the most toxic heavy metal assessed in this work, followed by arsenic and lead, and two isolates of Methylobacterium were found to be tolerant to all three metals. These isolates have the potential to bioremediate mangrove environments contaminated by oil spills by immobilizing the heavy metals present in the oil.
Lidar Observations of Aerosol Disturbances of the Stratosphere over Tomsk (56.5∘N;85.0∘E) in Volcanic Activity Period 2006–2011
Authors: Bazhenov Oleg E. , Burlakov Vladimir D. , Dolgii Sergey I. , Nevzorov Aleksey V.
Published: March 2012

The lidar measurements (Tomsk:56.5∘N;85.0∘E) of the optical characteristics of the stratospheric aerosol layer (SAL) in the volcanic activity period 2006–2011 are summarized and analyzed. The background SAL state with minimum aerosol content, observed since 1997 under the conditions of long-term volcanically quiet period, was interrupted in October 2006 by series of explosive eruptions of volcanoes of Pacific Ring of Fire: Rabaul (October 2006, New Guinea); Okmok and Kasatochi (July-August 2008, Aleutian Islands); Redoubt (March-April 2009, Alaska); Sarychev Peak (June 2009, Kuril Islands); Grimsvötn (May 2011, Iceland). A short-term and minor disturbance of the lower stratosphere was also observed in April 2010 after eruption of the Icelandic volcano Eyjafjallajokull. The developed regional empirical model of the vertical distribution of background SAL optical characteristics was used to identify the periods of elevated stratospheric aerosol content after each of the volcanic eruptions. Trends of variations in the total ozone content are also considered.
Sufficient Dilated LMI Conditions for H∞ Static Output Feedback Robust Stabilization of Linear Continuous‐Time Systems
Authors: Dabboussi Kamel , Zrida Jalel
Published: March 2012

New sufficient dilated linear matrix inequality (LMI) conditions for the H∞ static output feedback control problem of linear continuous‐time systems with no uncertainty are proposed. The used technique easily and successfully extends to systems with polytopic uncertainties, by means of parameter‐dependent Lyapunov functions (PDLFs). In order to reduce the conservatism existing in early standard LMI methods, auxiliary slack variables with even more relaxed structure are employed. It is shown that these slack variables provide additional flexibility to the solution. It is also shown, in this paper, that the proposed dilated LMI‐based conditions always encompass the standard LMI‐based ones. Numerical examples are given to illustrate the merits of the proposed method.
Giant Urinary Bladder and Bilateral Giant Hydronephrosis due to Bladder Neck Obstruction: One Case Report and Literature Review
Authors: Tazi Mohammed Fadl , Riyach Omar , Ahallal Youness , Mellas Soufiane , Khallouk Abdelhak , El Fassi Mohammed Jamal , Farih Moulay Hassan
Published: March 2012

Bilateral hydronephrosis secondary to urinary obstruction leads to a buildup of back pressure in the urinary tract and may lead to impairment of renal function. Cases of giant hydronephrosis are rare and usually contain no more than 1-2 litres of fluid in the collecting system. Here, we report a rarely seen case with giant urinary bladder and bilateral giant hydronephrosis due to bladder neck obstruction which contains 4000 mL fluid in the collecting system of the kidney mimicking an ascites in an adult male.
UAV-Based Sensor Web Monitoring System
Authors: Nagai Masahiko , Witayangkurn Apichon , Honda Kiyoshi , Shibasaki Ryosuke
Published: March 2012

An unmanned aerial vehicle- (UAV-) based monitoring system is developed as an intermediate system between aerial survey and ground survey. All the measurement tools are mounted on the UAV to acquire detailed information from low altitudes which is different from a satellite or a plane. The monitoring is carried out from the sky, but the spatial and temporal resolutions are freely selected near the ground. In this study, the data is easily acquired with safety and mobility by the utilization of a sensor web. A sensor web is a type of sensor network which is well suited for environmental monitoring. Sensor nodes are spatially distributed and wirelessly communicate with each other. In this study, the UAV-based system is considered as a mobile sensor node. This study proposes a combination of UAV-based monitoring with a ubiquitous sensor network.
Defining NOTCH3 Target Genes in Ovarian Cancer
Authors: Chen Xu , Thiaville Michelle M. , Chen Li , Stoeck Alexander , Xuan Jianhua , Gao Min , Shih Ie-Ming , Wang Tian-Li
Published: March 2012

NOTCH3 gene amplification plays an important role in the progression of many ovarian and breast cancers, but the targets of NOTCH3 signaling are unclear. Here, we report the use of an integrated systems biology approach to identify direct target genes for NOTCH3. Transcriptome analysis showed that suppression of NOTCH signaling in ovarian and breast cancer cells led to downregulation of genes in pathways involved in cell-cycle regulation and nucleotide metabolism. Chromatin immunoprecipitation (ChIP)-on-chip analysis defined promoter target sequences, including a new CSL binding motif (N1) in addition to the canonical CSL binding motif, that were occupied by the NOTCH3/CSL transcription complex. Integration of transcriptome and ChIP-on-chip data showed that the ChIP target genes overlapped significantly with the NOTCH-regulated transcriptome in ovarian cancer cells. From the set of genes identified, we showed that the mitotic apparatus organizing protein DLGAP5 (HURP/DLG7) was a critical target. Both the N1 motif and the canonical CSL binding motif were essential to activate DLGAP5 transcription. DLGAP5 silencing in cancer cells suppressed tumorigenicity and inhibited cellular proliferation by arresting the cell cycle at the G2–M phase. In contrast, enforced expression of DLGAP5 partially counteracted the growth inhibitory effects of a pharmacologic or RNA interference–mediated NOTCH inhibition in cancer cells. Our findings define direct target genes of NOTCH3 and highlight the role of DLGAP5 in mediating the function of NOTCH3. Cancer Res; 72(9); 2294–303. ©2012 AACR.