bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Cdc42 Oscillations in Yeasts
Authors: Bendezú Felipe O. , Martin Sophie G.
Published: December 2012

Oscillations in the localization of active Cdc42 govern polarized cell growth in yeasts.
Imprinting Evolution
Authors: Zahn Laura
Published: December 2012

Parental genetic conflict may have exploited changes in the coding of a protein loop in a growth factor receptor.
Notch Ligand Discrimination
Authors: VanHook Annalisa M.
Published: December 2012

An EGF repeat in the extracellular domain of Notch allows this receptor to discriminate between ligands.
Switching from Shh-Mediated Attraction to Repulsion
Authors: Gough Nancy R.
Published: December 2012

An increase in 14-3-3 proteins switches axons from being attracted to being repulsed by Sonic hedgehog.
Signet-ring cell carcinoma in gastric biopsies: expecting the unexpected
Authors: Golembeski Christopher P , Genta Robert Maximilian
Published: December 2012

Aims

This study was designed to establish the relative prevalence of intestinal-type and signet-ring carcinoma in gastric biopsy specimens from ambulatory patients, to determine the percentage of signet-ring carcinomas that could be expected based on the available clinical and endoscopic information, and to estimate the likelihood of missing a tumour.

Methods

We extracted data of all patients with a diagnosis of primary gastric carcinoma from a national pathology database. We then reviewed clinical information and original slides, classified tumours as intestinal or signet-ring-type, and categorised the latter as ‘unexpected’ (no alarming symptoms, no mention of suspicious lesions) or ‘expected’ (clinical or endoscopic information suggestive of tumour). Unexpected signet-ring carcinomas were categorised as ‘obvious’ or ‘challenging’ (rare signet-ring cells; immunohistochemical stains used to confirm the nature of the infiltrates).

Results

There were 310 109 patients with gastric biopsies; 615 patients had primary gastric carcinoma (359 intestinal and 256 signet-ring-type). Gastric cancer was more common in men (OR 2.54; 95% CI 2.05 to 3.14; p<.0001) for intestinal-type and (OR 1.90; 95% CI 1.48 to 2.42; p<0.0001) for signet-ring cell type). Intestinal-type carcinoma occurred in older patients than signet-ring-type (median age 74 vs 65 years, p<0.001). There were 196 expected and 60 unexpected signet-ring carcinomas; 47 of the 60 unexpected cases were histopathologically obvious. Thus, only 13 signet-ring carcinomas (1 in 25 000 gastric biopsy sets) were truly unexpected.

Conclusions

Signet-ring carcinoma is a rare finding in gastric biopsy specimens from ambulatory patients; routine due diligence and the clinical/endoscopic information provided are usually adequate to raise pathologists’ index of suspicion.
The oncogenic potential of Jumonji D2 (JMJD2/KDM4) histone demethylase overexpression
Authors: Young Leah C. , Hendzel Michael J.
Published: December 2012

The Jumonji D2 proteins (JMJD2/KDM4) function to demethylate di- and trimethylated (me2/3) histone 3 lysine 9 (H3K9me2/3) and H3K36me3. Knockout mouse models for Kdm4b and Kdm4d have not resulted in gross abnormalities, while mouse models for Kdm4a and Kdm4c have not been reported. However, the KDM4 subfamily of demethylases are overexpressed in several tumor types. Overexpression of KDM4 proteins alters transcription and chromatin remodeling, driving cellular proliferation, anchorage-independent growth, invasion, and migration. Increased proliferation occurs through KDM4-mediated modification of cell cycle timing, as well as through increased numbers of replication forks. Recent evidence also suggests that KDM4C overexpression contributes to the maintenance of a pluripotent state. Together these data suggest that overexpression of KDM4 proteins induces numerous oncogenic effects.
Synthesis of 6-substituted salicylates via biomimetic aromatization utilizing the cross metathesis of a vinyl dioxinone with homoallylic alcohols
Authors: Blencowe Peter S. , Barrett Anthony G.M.
Published: December 2012

We herein report biomimetic syntheses of 6-substituted salicylates from the cross metathesis of 2,2-dimethyl-6-vinyl-1,3-dioxin-4-one with homoallylic alcohols, oxidation, and aromatization of the intermediate enone–dioxinones. Of particular note is the use of the catalyst 1,4-diazabicyclo[2.2.2]octane in the microwave thermolytic ketene generation and trapping, cyclization, and dehydration reaction sequence.
Learning to Recognize Textual Entailment in Japanese Texts with the Utilization of Machine Translation
Authors: Pham Minh Quang Nhat , Nguyen Minh Le , Shimazu Akira
Published: December 2012

Recognizing Textual Entailment (RTE) is a fundamental task in Natural Language Understanding. The task is to decide whether the meaning of a text can be inferred from the meaning of another one. In this article, we conduct an empirical study of recognizing textual entailment in Japanese texts, in which we adopt a machine learning-based approach to the task. We quantitatively analyze the effects of various entailment features, machine learning algorithms, and the impact of RTE resources on the performance of an RTE system. This article also investigates the use of machine translation for the RTE task and determines whether machine translation can be used to improve the performance of our RTE system. Experimental results achieved on benchmark data sets show that our machine learning-based RTE system outperforms the baseline methods based on lexical matching and syntactic matching. The results also suggest that the machine translation component can be utilized to improve the performance of the RTE system.
Predicate-Argument Structure-Based Textual Entailment Recognition System Exploiting Wide-Coverage Lexical Knowledge
Authors: Shibata Tomohide , Kurohashi Sadao
Published: December 2012

This article proposes a predicate-argument structure based Textual Entailment Recognition system exploiting wide-coverage lexical knowledge. Different from conventional machine learning approaches where several features obtained from linguistic analysis and resources are utilized, our proposed method regards a predicate-argument structure as a basic unit, and performs the matching/alignment between a text and hypothesis. In matching between predicate-arguments, wide-coverage relations between words/phrases such as synonym and is-a are utilized, which are automatically acquired from a dictionary, Web corpus, and Wikipedia.
WAN-optimized replication of backup datasets using stream-informed delta compression
Authors: Shilane Phlip , Huang Mark , Wallace Grant , Hsu Windsor
Published: December 2012

Replicating data off site is critical for disaster recovery reasons, but the current approach of transferring tapes is cumbersome and error prone. Replicating across a wide area network (WAN) is a promising alternative, but fast network connections are expensive or impractical in many remote locations, so improved compression is needed to make WAN replication truly practical. We present a new technique for replicating backup datasets across a WAN that not only eliminates duplicate regions of files (deduplication) but also compresses similar regions of files with delta compression, which is available as a feature of EMC Data Domain systems.

Our main contribution is an architecture that adds stream-informed delta compression to already existing deduplication systems and eliminates the need for new, persistent indexes. Unlike techniques based on knowing a file's version or that use a memory cache, our approach achieves delta compression across all data replicated to a server at any time in the past. From a detailed analysis of datasets and statistics from hundreds of customers using our product, we achieve an additional 2X compression from delta compression beyond deduplication and local compression, which enables customers to replicate data that would otherwise fail to complete within their backup window.
Revisiting storage for smartphones
Authors: Kim Hyojun , Agrawal Nitin , Ungureanu Cristian
Published: December 2012

Conventional wisdom holds that storage is not a big contributor to application performance on mobile devices. Flash storage (the type most commonly used today) draws little power, and its performance is thought to exceed that of the network subsystem. In this article, we present evidence that storage performance does indeed affect the performance of several common applications such as Web browsing, maps, application install, email, and Facebook. For several Android smartphones, we find that just by varying the underlying flash storage, performance over WiFi can typically vary between 100% and 300% across applications; in one extreme scenario, the variation jumped to over 2000%. With a faster network (set up over USB), the performance variation rose even further. We identify the reasons for the strong correlation between storage and application performance to be a combination of poor flash device performance, random I/O from application databases, and heavy-handed use of synchronous writes. Based on our findings, we implement and evaluate a set of pilot solutions to address the storage performance deficiencies in smartphones.
Ataluren as an Agent for Therapeutic Nonsense Suppression
Authors: Peltz Stuart W. , Morsy Manal , Welch Ellen M. , Jacobson Allan
Published: December 2012

The interplay of translation and mRNA turnover has helped unveil how the regulation of gene expression is a continuum in which events that occur during the birth of a transcript in the nucleus can have profound effects on subsequent steps in the cytoplasm. Exemplifying this continuum is nonsense-mediated mRNA decay (NMD), the process wherein a premature stop codon affects both translation and mRNA decay. Studies of NMD helped lead us to the therapeutic concept of treating a subset of patients suffering from multiple genetic disorders due to nonsense mutations with a single small-molecule drug that modulates the translation termination process at a premature nonsense codon. Here we review both translation termination and NMD, and our subsequent efforts over the past 15 years that led to the identification, characterization, and clinical testing of ataluren, a new therapeutic with the potential to treat a broad range of genetic disorders due to nonsense mutations.
Once upon Anion: A Tale of Photodetachment
Authors: Lineberger W. Carl
Published: December 2012

This contribution is very much a personal history of a journey through the wonderful world of anion chemistry, and a tale of how advances in laser technologies, theoretical methods, and computational capabilities continuously enabled advances in our understanding. It is a story of the excitement and joy that come from the opportunity to add to the fabric of science, and to do so by working as a group of excited explorers with common goals. The participants in this journey include me, my students and postdoctoral associates, my collaborators, and our many generous colleagues. It all happened, in the words of the Beatles, “with a little help from my friends.” Actually, it was so much more than a little help!
Leptin-induced increase in body fat content of rats
Authors: Harris Ruth B. S.
Published: December 2012

We previously reported that peripheral leptin infusions in chronically decrebrate rats, in which the forebrain is neurally isolated from the hindbrain, increased body fat and decreased energy expenditure. Any central leptin response in decerebrate rats would depend upon the hindbrain. Here, we tested whether selective activation of hindbrain leptin receptors increased body fat. Fourth ventricle infusion of 0.6 μg leptin/day for 12 days increased body fat by 13% with no increase in food intake. Third ventricle leptin infusions decreased food intake, body fat, and lean tissue with a maximal response at 0.3 μg leptin/day. To test whether hindbrain receptors opposed activity of hypothalamic receptors, rats received peripheral infusions of 40 μg leptin/day and increasing 4th ventricle doses of the leptin receptor antagonist mutein protein. Mutein (3.0 μg/day) reduced body fat in PBS-infused rats to the same level as leptin-infused rats and reduced lean tissue in all rats. Leptin, but not mutein, inhibited food intake. By contrast, 3.0 μg/day mutein in the 3rd ventricle increased food intake and body fat in both PBS- and leptin-infused rats. In basal conditions, hindbrain leptin receptors may antagonize activity of forebrain receptors to protect lean and fat tissue, but there is no evidence for an anabolic role for hindbrain receptors when leptin is elevated. In a dietary study, rats increased energy intake when offered lard and 30% sucrose solution in addition to chow. Peripheral leptin infusion exaggerated the gain in body fat without altering energy intake confirming the potential for leptin to increase adiposity.
Chronic mild stress alters circadian expressions of molecular clock genes in the liver
Authors: Takahashi Kei , Yamada Tetsuya , Tsukita Sohei , Kaneko Keizo , Shirai Yuta , Munakata Yuichiro , Ishigaki Yasushi , Imai Junta , Uno Kenji , Hasegawa Yutaka , Sawada Shojiro , Oka Yoshitomo , Katagiri Hideki
Published: December 2012

Chronic stress is well known to affect metabolic regulation. However, molecular mechanisms interconnecting stress response systems and metabolic regulations have yet to be elucidated. Various physiological processes, including glucose/lipid metabolism, are regulated by the circadian clock, and core clock gene dysregulation reportedly leads to metabolic disorders. Glucocorticoids, acting as end-effectors of the hypothalamus-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis, entrain the circadian rhythms of peripheral organs, including the liver, by phase-shifting core clock gene expressions. Therefore, we examined whether chronic stress affects circadian expressions of core clock genes and metabolism-related genes in the liver using the chronic mild stress (CMS) procedure. In BALB/c mice, CMS elevated and phase-shifted serum corticosterone levels, indicating overactivation of the HPA axis. The rhythmic expressions of core clock genes, e.g., Clock, Npas2, Bmal1, Per1, and Cry1, were altered in the liver while being completely preserved in the hypothalamic suprachiasmatic nuculeus (SCN), suggesting that the SCN is not involved in alterations in hepatic core clock gene expressions. In addition, circadian patterns of glucose and lipid metabolism-related genes, e.g., peroxisome proliferator activated receptor ( Ppar) α, Pparγ-1, Pparγ-coactivator-1α, and phosphoenolepyruvate carboxykinase, were also disturbed by CMS. In contrast, in C57BL/6 mice, the same CMS procedure altered neither serum corticosterone levels nor rhythmic expressions of hepatic core clock genes and metabolism-related genes. Thus, chronic stress can interfere with the circadian expressions of both core clock genes and metabolism-related genes in the liver possibly involving HPA axis overactivation. This mechanism might contribute to metabolic disorders in stressful modern societies.
Roles for the Sarco-/Endoplasmic Reticulum in Cardiac Myocyte Contraction, Protein Synthesis, and Protein Quality Control
Authors: Glembotski Christopher C.
Published: December 2012

Although the function of the sarcoplasmic/endoplasmic reticulum (SR/ER) in cardiac contractile calcium handling is well established, its roles in protein synthesis, folding, and quality control in cardiac myocytes are not as clear. This review explores evidence suggesting that, in cardiac myocytes, protein synthesis and contractile calcium handling may be physically and functionally integrated.
Clone-Specific Response in Leaf Nitrate Reductase Activity among Unrelated Hybrid Poplars in relation to Soil Nitrate Availability
Authors: Fortier Julien , Truax Benoit , Lambert France , Gagnon Daniel , Chevrier Normand
Published: December 2012

In this field study, we usedin vivoNRA activity in hybrid poplar leaves as an indicator ofNO3-assimilation for five unrelated hybrid poplar clones. We also examined if leaf NRA of these clones is influenced to the same extent by different levels of soilNO3-availability in two riparian agroforestry systems located in pastures. Leaf NRA differences of more than one order of magnitude were observed between the clones, clearly showing their different abilities to reduceNO3-in leaves. Clone DxN-3570, aP. deltoidesxP. nigrahybrid (Aigeirosintrasectional hybrid), always had the highest leaf NRA during the field assays. This clone was also the only one to increase its leaf NRA with increasingNO3-soil availability, which resulted in a significant Site x Clone interaction and a positive relationship between soilNO3-concentration and NRA. All of the four other clones studied had one or both parental species from theTacamahacasection. They had relatively low leaf NRA and they did not increase their leaf NRA when grown on theNO3-rich site. These results provide evidence thatNO3-assimilation in leaves varies widely among hybrid poplars of different parentages, suggesting potential preferences for N forms.
Nanomaterials Toxicity and Cell Death Modalities
Authors: De Stefano Daniela , Carnuccio Rosa , Maiuri Maria Chiara
Published: December 2012

In the last decade, the nanotechnology advancement has developed a plethora of novel and intriguing nanomaterial application in many sectors, including research and medicine. However, many risks have been highlighted in their use, particularly related to their unexpected toxicity in vitro and in vivo experimental models. This paper proposes an overview concerning the cell death modalities induced by the major nanomaterials.
Health Information Accessed on the Internet: The Development in 5 European Countries
Authors: Kummervold Per Egil , Wynn Rolf
Published: December 2012

The aim of this study was to summarize and analyse findings from four prior studies on the use of the Internet as a source of health information in five European countries (Norway, Denmark, Germany, Greece, and Portugal). A cross-study comparison of data was performed. All the studies included fit with a trend of a sharp and continuous growth in the use of the Internet for health information access in the major part of the last decade. Importantly, the Internet has become an important mass media source of health information in northern Europe. While the use of the Internet for health information is somewhat less common in the south European countries, its use is also clearly increasing there. We discuss the advantages of cross-study comparisons of data and methodological challenges. As the use of the Internet for health information is likely to peak in some countries in the near future, new population surveys on health information access should focus more on the details of information that is accessed and which sites that are most used and trusted.
Fournier’s Gangrene in a Heterosexual Man: A Complication ofNeisseria meningitidisUrethritis
Authors: Khemees Tariq A. , Porshinsky Brian S. , Patel Abhishek P. , McClung Christopher D.
Published: December 2012

A 55-year-old heterosexual male presented to the emergency department with a symptomatology consistent with urethritis and Fournier’s gangrene. Urethral swab and operative tissue cultures were positive for coagulase-negativeStaphylococcusand an intracellular Gram-negative diplococcus. The latter was initially thought to beNeisseria gonorrhea; however, DNA sequencing technique confirmed it to beNeisseria meningitidis. The patient required three separate surgical debridements to control widespread necrotizing infection. Following documentation of sterile wound healing with appropriate antibiotics, four reconstructive surgeries were necessary to manage the resultant wound defects. To our knowledge,Neisseria meningitidisas a causative organism in Fournier’s gangrene has not been reported in the literature.
The Outcome of 270-Degree Selective Laser Trabeculoplasty
Authors: Pehkonen Pasi Tapio , Välimäki Juha Oskari
Published: December 2012

Purpose. To evaluate the reduction of intraocular pressure (IOP) by a single-session 270° selective laser trabeculoplasty (SLT) in pseudoexfoliation glaucoma (PXFG) and primary open angle glaucoma (POAG) patients.Methods. A successful outcome was defined as an IOP reduction ≥20% from baseline with no further need for laser or incisional surgery. The preoperative pharmaceuticals were maintained unchanged throughout the course of the study. 70–80 nonoverlapping pulses were distributed around 270° in the trabecular band.Results. Sixty-six eyes of 42 patients with PXFG (30 eyes) or POAG (36 eyes) met the inclusion criteria. The mean ± standard deviation preoperative IOP was23.7±4.5 mmHg and at the end of the followup was19.0±4.5 mmHg with a pressure drop of4.7±3.1 mmHg (20%) (P<0.001, 95% confidence interval 3.94–5.46). The cumulative probability of success was 39% (26 of 66 eyes) after 6 months of followup. Statistically significant differences in success rates were observed between the PXFG and POAG groups (27% versus 50%;P=0.025). Postoperative inflammatory reaction was scanty.Conclusions. 270-degree SLT is useful in lowering IOP in PXFG and POAG, but the average reduction of IOP seems to be within the same range as reported with 180-degree SLT previously.
HIV Prevention and Rehabilitation Models for Women Who Inject Drugs in Russia and Ukraine
Authors: Yorick Roman , Skipalska Halyna , Suvorova Svetlana , Sukovatova Olga , Zakharov Konstantin , Hodgdon Sara
Published: December 2012

Women who inject drugs require gender-specific approaches to drug rehabilitation, modification of risk behaviors, and psychosocial adaptation. Improved outcomes have been demonstrated when the specific needs of women’s subpopulations have been addressed. Special services for women include prenatal care, child care, women-only programs, supplemental workshops on women-focused topics, mental health services, and comprehensive programs that include several of the above components. To address the special needs of women injecting drug user (IDU) subpopulations, such as HIV-positive pregnant women and women with young children, recently released female prisoners, and street-involved girls and young women, HealthRight International and its local partners in Russia and Ukraine have developed innovative service models. This paper presents each of these models and discusses their effectiveness and implementation challenges specific to local contexts in Russia and Ukraine.
Assessing Latent Effects of Prenatal Cocaine Exposure on Growth and Risk of Cardiometabolic Disease in Late Adolescence: Design and Methods
Authors: Messiah Sarah E. , Lipshultz Steven E. , Miller Tracie L. , Accornero Veronica H. , Bandstra Emmalee S.
Published: December 2012

Prenatal cocaine exposure has been linked to neurocognitive and developmental outcomes throughout childhood. The cardiovascular toxicity of cocaine is also markedly increased in pregnancy, but it is unknown whether this toxicity affects anthropometric growth and the development of cardiometabolic disease risk factors in the offspring across the lifespan. During the early 1990s, the Miami Prenatal Cocaine Study enrolled a cohort of 476 African American children (253 cocaine-exposed, 223 non-cocaine-exposed) and their biological mothers at delivery in a prospective, longitudinal study. The MPCS has collected 12 prior waves of multidomain data on over 400 infants and their mothers/alternate caregivers through mid-adolescence and is now embarking on an additional wave of data collection at ages 18-19 years. We describe here the analytical methods for examining the relationship between prenatal cocaine exposure, anthropometric growth, and cardiometabolic disease risk factors in late adolescence in this minority, urban cohort. Findings from this investigation should inform both the fields of substance use and cardiovascular research about subsequent risks of cocaine ingestion during pregnancy in offspring.
A Systematic Literature Review of the Association of Lipoprotein(a) and Autoimmune Diseases and Atherosclerosis
Authors: Missala I. , Kassner U. , Steinhagen-Thiessen E.
Published: December 2012

Objective. To investigate the association of lipoprotein(a) and atherosclerosis-related autoimmune diseases, to provide information on possible pathophysiologic mechanisms, and to give recommendations for Lp(a) determination and therapeutic options.Methods. We performed a systematic review of English language citations referring to the keywords “Lp(a)” AND “autoimmune disease” AND “atherosclerosis,” “Lp(a)” AND “immune system” OR “antiphospholipid (Hughes) syndrome (APS)” OR “rheumatoid arthritis” OR “Sjögren’s syndrome” OR “systemic lupus erythematosus” OR “systemic sclerosis” OR “systemic vasculitis” published between 1991 and 2011 using Medline database.Results. 22 out of 65 found articles were identified as relevant. Lp(a) association was highest in rheumatoid arthritis (RA), followed by systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), moderate in APS and lowest in systemic sclerosis (SSc). There was no association found between Lp(a) and systemic vasculitis or Sjögren’s syndrome.Conclusion. Immune reactions are highly relevant in the pathophysiology of atherosclerosis, and patients with specific autoimmune diseases are at high risk for CVD. Elevated Lp(a) is an important risk factor for premature atherosclerosis and high Lp(a) levels are also associated with autoimmune diseases. Anti-Lp(a)-antibodies might be a possible explanation. Therapeutic approaches thus far include niacin, Lp(a)-apheresis, farnesoid x-receptor-agonists, and CETP-inhibitors being currently under investigation.
Robust Stability of Markovian Jumping Genetic Regulatory Networks with Mode‐Dependent Delays
Authors: He Guang , Fang Jian-An , Wu Xiaotai
Published: December 2012

The robust stability analysis problem is investigated for a class of Markovian jumping genetic regulatory networks with parameter uncertainties and mode‐dependent delays, which varies randomly according to the Markov state and exists in both translation and feedback regulation processes. The purpose of the addressed stability analysis problem is to establish some easily verifiable conditions under which the Markovian jumping genetic regulatory networks with parameter uncertainties and mode‐dependent delays is asymptotically stable. By utilizing a new Lyapunov functional and a lemma, we derive delay‐dependent sufficient conditions ensuring the robust stability of the gene regulatory networks in the form of linear matrix inequalities. Illustrative examples are exploited to show the effectiveness of the derived linear‐matrix‐inequalities‐ (LMIS‐) based stability conditions.
Mozart K.545 Mimics Mozart K.448 in Reducing Epileptiform Discharges in Epileptic Children
Authors: Lin Lung-Chang , Lee Mei-Wen , Wei Ruey-Chang , Mok Hin-Kiu , Wu Hui-Chuan , Tsai Chin-Lin , Yang Rei-Cheng
Published: December 2012

Mozart K.448 has been shown to improve cognitive function, leading to what is known as the Mozart Effect. Our previous work reveals positive effects of Mozart K.448 in reducing epileptiform discharges in epileptic children. In this study, we evaluated the effect of Mozart K.545 and compared the effects with those of Mozart K.448 on epileptiform discharges in children with epilepsy. Thirty-nine epileptic children with epileptiform discharges were included in the study. They received electroencephalogram examinations before, during, and after listening to Mozart K.448 and K.545, one week apart, respectively. The frequencies of epileptiform discharges were compared. There was a significant decrease in the frequency of epileptiform discharges during and right after listening to Mozart K.448 and K.545 (reduced by35.7±32.7% during Mozart K.448 and30.3±44.4% after Mozart K.448; and34.0±39.5% during Mozart K.545 and31.8±39.2% after Mozart K.545). Spectrogrammatic analysis of the two pieces of music demonstrated that both share similar spectrogrammatic characteristics. Listening to Mozart K.448 and K.545 decreased the epileptiform discharges in epileptic children. This suggests that Mozart K.448 is not the only piece of music to have beneficial effects on children with epilepsy. Other music with lower harmonics may also decrease epileptiform discharges in epileptic children.
Effect ofPiper sarmentosumExtract on the Cardiovascular System of Diabetic Sprague-Dawley Rats: Electron Microscopic Study
Authors: Thent Zar Chi , Seong Lin Teoh , Das Srijit , Zakaria Zaiton
Published: December 2012

AlthoughPiper sarmentosum(PS) is known to possess the antidiabetic properties, its efficacy towards diabetic cardiovascular tissues is still obscured. The present study aimed to observe the electron microscopic changes on the cardiac tissue and proximal aorta of experimental rats treated with PS extract. Thirty-two male Sprague-Dawley rats were divided into four groups: untreated control group (C), PS-treated control group (CTx), untreated diabetic group (D), and PS-treated diabetic group (DTx). Intramuscular injection of streptozotocin (STZ, 50 mg/kg body weight) was given to induce diabetes. Following 28 days of diabetes induction, PS extract (0.125 g/kg body weight) was administered orally for 28 days. Body weight, fasting blood glucose, and urine glucose levels were measured at 4-week interval. At the end of the study, cardiac tissues and the aorta were viewed under transmission electron microscope (TEM). DTx group showed increase in body weight and decrease in fasting blood glucose and urine glucose level compared to the D group. Under TEM study, DTx group showed lesser ultrastructural degenerative changes in the cardiac tissues and the proximal aorta compared to the D group. The results indicate that PS restores ultrastructural integrity in the diabetic cardiovascular tissues.
Processing and Characterization of High Density Polyethylene/Ethylene Vinyl Acetate Blends with Different VA Contents
Authors: Alothman Othman Y.
Published: December 2012

Different series of high density Polyethylene/Ethylene Vinyl Acetate (HDPE/EVA) blends were prepared via melt blending in a corotating intermeshing twin screw extruder. The effects of VA percentage and EVA loading ratio on the thermal, rheological viscoelastic, mechanical, and fracture toughness of the blends were analyzed. The results showed that the addition of EVA to HDPE reduces the thermal, elastic, and viscoelastic properties of the blends. The microscopic examination of the fracture surface confirmed the ductile fracture of HDPE/EVA blends for all blend ratios and VA percentages. Increasing the EVA ratio and VA content caused a significant reduction in the blend crystallinity but had no significant effect on melting temperature. The complex viscosity increased with increasing the percentage of EVA due to the restriction of molecular mobility and reduction of free volume, induced by the addition of EVA. The storage modulus decreased with increasing the EVA ratio and temperature, while it increased with increasing the frequency. Young’s modulus, yield strength, and fracture strain decreased with increasing the EVA ratio. Similarly, the fracture toughness decreased proportional to the EVA percentage. Finally the results indicated that the VA content has significant effects on the mechanical, thermal, and dynamic properties of HDPE/EVA blends.
Pharmacological Evaluation ofProsopis cineraria(L.) Druce in Gastrointestinal, Respiratory, and Vascular Disorders
Authors: Janbaz Khalid Hussain , Haider Sajjad , Imran Imran , Zia-Ul-Haq Muhammad , De Martino Laura , De Feo Vincenzo
Published: December 2012

In this paper, a crude methanolic extract from the stem bark ofProsopis cineraria, a plant native of Pakistan, was tested for its possible presence of spasmolytic, bronchodilator, and vasodilator activities in an attempt to validate some of its folkloric uses. Moreover, attempts were made to provide plausible explanations of the observed biological activities. The extract caused relaxation of the spontaneous as well as K+(80 mM)-induced contractions at tissue bath concentrations of 3–10 mg/mL in isolated rabbit jejunum preparations, probably mediated through blockade of Ca+2channels. This finding was further confirmed by the shifting of the Ca+2concentration response curves to the rightward in a manner similar to verapamil used as a standard Ca+2channel blocker. The extract also exhibited nonspecific relaxant effect on carbachol (1 μM)- and K+(80 mM)-induced contractions in isolated rabbit tracheal preparations. The same effect was recorded for phenylephrine (11 μM) and K+(80 mM)-induced contractions in isolated rabbit aortic preparations in a manner similar to verapamil. These observations confirm that observed bronchodilator and vasodilator activities were possibly mediated through blockade of Ca+2channels. The above-mentioned observations validate the traditional use of the plant in the treatment of respiratory and gastrointestinal ailments.
Perspectives on Entangled Nuclear Particle Pairs Generation and Manipulation in Quantum Communication and Cryptography Systems
Authors: Dănilă Octavian , Sterian Paul E. , Sterian Andreea Rodica
Published: December 2012

Entanglement between two quantum elements is a phenomenon which presents a broad application spectrum, being used largely in quantum cryptography schemes and in physical characterisation of the universe. Commonly known entangled states have been obtained with photons and electrons, but other quantum elements such as quarks, leptons, and neutrinos have shown their informational potential. In this paper, we present the perspective of exploiting the phenomenon of entanglement that appears in nuclear particle interactions as a resource for quantum key distribution protocols.
A Novel Method for Real-Time, Continuous, Fluorescence-Based Analysis of Anti-DNA Abzyme Activity in Systemic Lupus
Authors: Cavallo Michelle F. , Kats Anna M. , Chen Ran , Hartmann James X. , Pavlovic Mirjana
Published: December 2012

Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE) is an autoimmune disease characterized by the production of antibodies against a variety of self-antigens including nucleic acids. These antibodies are cytotoxic, catalytic (hydrolyzing DNA, RNA, and protein), and nephritogenic. Current methods for investigating catalytic activities of natural abzymes produced by individuals suffering from autoimmunity are mostly discontinuous and often employ hazardous reagents. Here we demonstrate the utility of dual-labeled, fluorogenic DNA hydrolysis probes in highly specific, sensitive, continuous, fluorescence-based measurement of DNA hydrolytic activity of anti-ssDNA abzymes purified from the serum of patients suffering from SLE. An assay for the presence and levels of antibodies exhibiting hydrolytic activity could facilitate disease diagnosis, prediction of flares, monitoring of disease state, and response to therapy. The assay may allow indirect identification of additional targets of anti-DNA antibodies and the discovery of molecules that inhibit their activity. Combined, these approaches may provide new insights into molecular mechanisms of lupus pathogenesis.
Nectar Meals of a Mosquito-Specialist Spider
Authors: Kuja Josiah O. , Jackson Robert R. , Sune Godfrey O. , Karanja Rebecca N. H. , Lagat Zipporah O. , Carvell Georgina E.
Published: December 2012

Evarcha culicivora, an East African jumping spider, is known for feeding indirectly on vertebrate blood by actively choosing blood-carrying mosquitoes as prey. Using cold-anthrone tests to detect fructose, we demonstrate thatE. culicivoraalso feeds on nectar. Field-collected individuals, found on the plantLantana camara, tested positive for plant sugar (fructose). In the laboratory,E. culicivoratested positive for fructose after being kept withL. camaraor one of another ten plant species (Aloe vera, Clerodendron magnifica, Hamelia patens, Lantana montevideo, Leonotis nepetaefolia, Parthenium hysterophorus, Ricinus communis, Senna didymobotrya, Striga asiatica, andVerbena trivernia). Our findings demonstrate thatE. culicivoraacquires fructose from its natural diet and can ingest fructose directly from plant nectaries. However, experiments in the laboratory also show thatE. culicivoracan obtain fructose indirectly by feeding on prey that have fed on fructose, implying a need to consider this possibility when field-collected spiders test positive for fructose. In laboratory tests, 53.5% of 1,215 small juveniles, but only 3.4% of 622 adultE. culicivora, left with plants for 24 hours, were positive for fructose. These findings, along with the field data, suggest that fructose is especially important for early-instar juveniles ofE. culicivora.
Research on Internal Layout Optimization of Logistics Node under the Conditions of Complex Terrain Based on Computer Vision and Geographical Simulation System
Authors: Wang Wei , Feng Xuejun
Published: December 2012

This paper solves the problem of logistics node space relationship beyond expression based on computer vision technology, proposes internal layout optimization mathematical model of logistics node on the basis of overall consideration of function zone geometry shape, the optimal area utilization rate, and the minimum material handling cost, and then designs a highly mixed genetic simulated annealing algorithm based on multiagent to get layout solution. Through contrasting, the result has shown that the model and algorithms put forward in this paper can realize large‐scale internal layout optimization of logistics node under the conditions of complex terrain and multiple constraints.
Speckle Cross-Correlation Method in Measuring Fine Surface Displacements
Authors: Bahrawi M. , Farid N. , Abdel-Hady M.
Published: December 2012

Industrial applications need regular testing for the lifetime, movement, strength, and performance of manufacturing machines during production process. Since speckle photography is a simple economic technique, it is used in investigating object response under mechanical and thermal effects depending on the movement of the speckle patterns with respect to the deformation strength and direction. In the present work, the cross-correlation technique is used to analyze the speckle patterns by iterative method to define both values and directions of rigid body translation and expansion. In order to check the accuracy of the cross-correlation technique, the results are compared with the displacement values given by analyzing the Young's interference fringes resulted from the Fourier transformation of the speckle patterns. This noncontact technique is found to be accurate and informative depending on the stability and sensitivity of the optical system. This method of measurement is an effective tool in studying the hard cases of objects and machines under various effects.
Influence of Resistance Training Variables on Excess Postexercise Oxygen Consumption: A Systematic Review
Authors: Farinatti Paulo , Castinheiras Neto Antonio Gil , da Silva Nádia Lima
Published: December 2012

Objectives. Resistance training may influence the resting metabolic rate (RMR), which is desirable in weight management programs. However, its impact on excess postexercise oxygen consumption (EPOC) is yet to be defined. The study evaluated the contribution of resistance training variables to EPOC. Design. Studies published until November 2011 were systematically reviewed. Methods. MEDLINE, LILACS, SCIELO, Science Citation Index, Scopus, SPORTDiscus, and CINAHL databases were consulted. The methodological quality of studies was assessed by the PEDro 10-point scale. A total of 155 participants (54% men) aged between 20±2 and 34±14 years were observed by 16 studies (quality scores ranged from 5 to 7), which were organized according to treatment similarity (number of sets, intensity, rest interval, speed of movement, and exercise order). Results. Training volume seemed to influence both EPOC magnitude and duration, whereas workload influenced mostly the magnitude. Short rest intervals (<60 s) increased the EPOC magnitude, but not the overall energy expenditure. Conclusion. Resistance training with high intensity and volume, performed with short rest intervals (as in circuit training), probably have greater impact on EPOC. Methodological procedures, particularly time of post-exercise observation and RMR assessment, should be standardized to an appropriate quantification of the actual influence of resistance training on EPOC.
Difluoromethylornithine: The Proof Is in the Polyamines
Authors: Jeter Joanne M. , Alberts David S.
Published: December 2012

In this issue (beginning on page 1368), Kreul and colleagues report a retrospective review of long-term efficacy and toxicity for subjects participating in a phase III study of difluoromethylornithine (DFMO) for prevention of nonmelanoma skin cancer (NMSC). They conclude that those treated with DFMO had a nonsignificant, persistent decrease in NMSC after completion of treatment and that treatment with DFMO did not result in late toxicity after the discontinuation of treatment. We review the data on DFMO as a chemopreventive agent for skin and other cancers, discuss the necessary qualities of a cancer chemopreventive agent, and reflect on the requirements for a well-conducted cancer chemoprevention study, including the rationale for long-term follow-up in cancer prevention studies. Cancer Prev Res; 5(12); 1341–4. ©2012 AACR.
Drug Resistance and Pseudoresistance
Authors: Grosser Tilo , Fries Susanne , Lawson John A. , Kapoor Shiv C. , Grant Gregory R. , FitzGerald Garret A.
Published: December 2012

Background—

Low dose aspirin reduces the secondary incidence of myocardial infarction and stroke. Drug resistance to aspirin might result in treatment failure. Despite this concern, no clear definition of aspirin resistance has emerged, and estimates of its incidence have varied remarkably. We aimed to determine the commonality of a mechanistically consistent, stable, and specific phenotype of true pharmacological resistance to aspirin—such as might be explained by genetic causes.

Methods and Results—

Healthy volunteers (n=400) were screened for their response to a single oral dose of 325-mg immediate release or enteric coated aspirin. Response parameters reflected the activity of the molecular target of aspirin, cyclooxygenase-1. Individuals who appeared aspirin resistant on 1 occasion underwent repeat testing, and if still resistant were exposed to low-dose enteric coated aspirin (81 mg) and clopidogrel (75 mg) for 1 week each. Variable absorption caused a high frequency of apparent resistance to a single dose of 325-mg enteric coated aspirin (up to 49%) but not to immediate release aspirin (0%). All individuals responded to aspirin on repeated exposure, extension of the postdosing interval, or addition of aspirin to their platelets ex vivo.

Conclusions—

Pharmacological resistance to aspirin is rare; this study failed to identify a single case of true drug resistance. Pseudoresistance, reflecting delayed and reduced drug absorption, complicates enteric coated but not immediate release aspirin administration.

Clinical Trial Registration—

URL:
http://www.clinicaltrials.gov
. Unique identifier: NCT00948987.
Detecting Signals from Data with Noise: Theory and Applications
Authors: Chen Xianyao , Wang Meng , Zhang Yuanling , Feng Ying , Wu Zhaohua , Huang Norden E.
Published: December 2012

Signal detection from noisy data by rejecting a noise null hypothesis depends critically on a priori assumptions regarding the background noise and the associated statistical methods. Rejecting one kind of noise null hypothesis cannot rule out the possibility that the detected oscillations are generated from the stochastic processes of another kind. This calls for an adaptive null hypothesis based on general characteristics of the noise that is present. In this paper, a new method is developed for identifying signals from data based on the finding that true physical signals in a well-sampled time series cannot be destroyed or eliminated by resampling the time series with fractional sampling rates through linear interpolation. Therefore, the significance of signals could be tested by checking whether the signals persist in the true time–frequency spectral representation during resampling. This hypothesis is based on the general characteristics of noise as revealed by empirical mode decomposition, an adaptive data analysis method without linear or stationary assumptions, and without any predefinition of the background noise. Applications of this method to synthetic time series, solar spot number, and sea surface temperature time series illustrate its power in identifying characteristics of background noise without any a priori knowledge.
Estimates of Cabbeling in the Global Ocean
Authors: Schanze Julian J. , Schmitt Raymond W.
Published: December 2012

Owing to the larger thermal expansion coefficient at higher temperatures, more buoyancy is put into the ocean by heating than is removed by cooling at low temperatures. The authors show that, even with globally balanced thermal and haline surface forcing at the ocean surface, there is a negative density flux and hence a positive buoyancy flux. As shown by McDougall and Garrett, this must be compensated by interior densification on mixing due to the nonlinearity of the equation of state (cabbeling). Three issues that arise from this are addressed: the estimation of the annual input of density forcing, the effects of the seasonal cycle, and the total cabbeling potential of the ocean upon complete mixing. The annual expansion through surface density forcing in a steady-state ocean driven by balanced evaporation–precipitation–runoff (E–P–R) and net radiative budget at the surface Qnet is estimated as 74 000 m3 s−1 (0.07 Sv; 1 Sv ≡ 106 m3 s−1), which would be equivalent to a sea level rise of 6.3 mm yr−1. This is equivalent to approximately 3 times the estimated rate of sea level rise or 450% of the average Mississippi River discharge. When seasonal variations are included, this density forcing increases by 35% relative to the time-mean case to 101 000 m3 s−1 (0.1 Sv). Likely bounds are established on these numbers by using different Qnet and E–P–R datasets and the estimates are found to be robust to a factor of ~2. These values compare well with the cabbeling-induced contraction inferred from independent thermal dissipation rate estimates. The potential sea level decrease upon complete vertical mixing of the ocean is estimated as 230 mm. When horizontal mixing is included, the sea level drop is estimated as 300 mm.
Practice Makes Perfect?
Authors: Prichard Stephanie
Published: December 2012

Helping young musicians learn how to practice effectively is a challenge faced by all music educators. This article presents a system of individual music practice instruction that can be seamlessly integrated within large-ensemble rehearsals. Using a step-by-step approach, large-ensemble conductors can teach students to identify and isolate difficult passages, select appropriate practice strategies, and make improvements to their playing. This model of practice instruction draws on Albert Bandura’s concept of observational learning, as well as music education research.
Opportunities for Socioemotional Learning in Music Classrooms
Authors: Jacobi Bonnie S.
Published: December 2012

The elementary music class is an ideal setting for building socioemotional skills in children. These skills can assist children in their early music learning through brain development, and they become increasingly important as students reach higher levels of musicianship. Socioemotional learning programs are currently being used to reduce at-risk behaviors in schools. Strategies for building social skills include identifying specific behaviors, modeling behaviors we want students to learn, and devising positive reinforcement systems to reward students for showing positive social behavior.