bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
E-075 Recanalization with wingspan stent for secondary division of middle cerebral artery occlusion in failure or contraindication to intravenous thrombolysis
Authors: Sung S , Lee T
Published: July 2012

Background and Purpose

Recanalization with the Wingspan stent, which can be deployed rapidly and safely, is an option for treating acute middle cerebral artery (MCA) secondary division (M2) occlusion when intravenous thrombolysis has failed or is contraindicated. The purpose of this study was to evaluated feasibility, efficacy, and safety of recanalization for acute MCA M2 occlusion using the Wingspan stent.

Methods

We report 10 patients with acute MCA M2 occlusion in whom recanalization was not achieved with a standard intravenous thrombolysis, or who were ineligible for intravenous thrombolysis or who presented after 3 h of symptom onset and the stenting could be completed within 8 h from symptom onset. We analyzed angiographic and clinical results.

Results

Successful recanalization with the Wingspan stent were achieved in all patients. The mean NIHSS score on admission was 13.8 points (range 6–23). The occlusion site were located in the superior division (n=4, left:3, right:1), the middle division (n=1, right) and the inferior division (n=5, all: right) of MCA. The mean time interval from stroke symptom onset to stenting was 348.9±90.4 min. No intracranial hemorrhage, vessel perforations or dissections occurred in any patient. One patient developed acute thrombosis in distal ICA of a stented side at 4 days after placement and was managed well with mechanical thrombectomy. All patients improved on the NIHSS (mean amount: 8.8) and to an NIHSS score of 5±4.6 (median 4.5, range 0–15) at 7 days. At discharge, an mRS of ≤3 was achieved in 8 patients (80%) and an mRS of ≤2 was achieved in six patients (60%).

Conclusions

This case series demonstrated the feasibility of using a Wingspan stent safely and effectively for acute MCA M2 occlusions when intravenous thrombolysis failed or was contraindicated.

Competing interests

None.
E-077 Manual aspiration thrombectomy through balloon-tipped guide catheter for rapid clot burden reduction in endovascular therapy for ICA L/T occlusion: Abstract E-077 Figure 1
Authors: Eesa M , Almekhlafi M , Mitha A , Wong J , Goyal M
Published: July 2012

Purpose

Timely recanalization during endovascular procedures for acute ischemic stroke can be challenging in cases with large clot burden as those encountered in the terminal internal carotid, T- or L-type occlusion.

Methods

A novel but simple technique to achieve fast reduction in clot burden in stroke patients with occlusion of the internal carotid artery termination is described where manual suction using a 60 ml syringe applied through an 8-French Balloon guide catheter positioned in the cervical carotid vasculature with proximal flow arrest allows subsequent revascularization of the residual middle cerebral artery clot.

Results

The use of manual suction through balloon-tipped guide catheter in ICA L- or T-type occlusion is illustrated. This resulted in significant reduction of the clot burden and facilitated further interventions leading to full recanalization.

Conclusion

Manual suction using 60 ml syringe through balloon guide catheter is a useful and feasible technique that facilitates thrombectomy of large burden cerebral clots.

Competing interests

None.

Abstract E-077 Figure 1
Oral contraception and energy intake in women: Impact on substrate oxidation during exercise
Authors: Isacco Laurie , Thivel David , Pelle Anne Meddahi , Zouhal Hassane , Duclos Martine , Duche Pascale , Boisseau Nathalie
Published: July 2012

Oral contraception (OC) and energy intake may play a role in fuel selection during exercise. The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of OCs (OC+ vs. OC–) in fed and fasting conditions on substrate oxidation and metabolic and hormonal responses in women during exercise. Substrate oxidation (respiratory exchange ratio and lipid and carbohydrates oxidation rates), metabolic (glycerol, free fatty acids (FFA), and glucose), and hormonal (insulin, adrenaline, and noradrenaline) responses were determined in 21 women: 10 regularly menstruating women (OC–) and 11 women using OCs (OC+: low-dose monophasic pill; ethinyl estradiol ≤ 30 µg) during 45 min at 65% of maximal oxygen consumption in fasting and postprandial states. At rest, OC+ presented higher low-density lipoprotein cholesterol, total cholesterol, and triglyceride plasma concentrations as compared with OC–. OC status had no influence on substrate oxidation and metabolic and hormonal responses during exercise. In the fasting state, whatever the OC status, women exhibited greater reliance on fat than in postprandial condition. This occurred in the presence of lower plasma insulin concentrations and higher plasma FFA and glycerol levels. The results indicated that the use of low-dose monophasic combined with OCs did not modify fuel selection and metabolic and hormonal responses during exercise in women. The fasting condition, compared with the fed condition, decreased carbohydrate oxidation during exercise, leading to a greater lipid mobilization and utilization whatever the OC status. Thus, in women, the realization of an exercise in either the fed or fasting conditions had a greater impact on substrate oxidation than OC status.
An exploratory study of sodium, potassium, and fluid nutrition status of tube-fed nonambulatory children with severe cerebral palsy
Authors: McGowan Joan Elizabeth , Fenton Tanis R. , Wade Andrew William , Branton Jodi Lynn , Robertson Marli
Published: July 2012

Children with severe cerebral palsy (CP) often have lower mineral intakes than healthy children. It is unknown if their lower nutrient intakes are adequate to meet their needs. The objective of this study was to examine the sodium, potassium, phosphate, and fluid status of primarily tube-fed nonambulatory children with severe CP. The design consisted of a cross-sectional exploratory study and a clinical trial of sodium supplementation. Nutritional status was determined among primarily tube-fed children (aged 2 to 17 years) with CP based on blood and urine samples, anthropometry, and 3-day food records. Mineral and fluid status was evaluated by a nephrologist blind to nutrient intakes. Twenty children supplied food records, blood samples, and anthropometric measurements, and 16 supplied urine samples. Six (37.5%) of those who provided urine samples were considered possibly dehydrated, as urine osmolality was >600 mmol·kg–1. Six (60%) of the 10 children with satisfactory fluid status (low urine osmolality) were considered to have a possible dietary sodium deficiency based on a very low urine sodium concentration (<20 mmol·L–1). Those considered to have a possible dietary sodium deficiency had a significantly lower sodium intake (48% ± 15% Adequate Intake (AI)) compared with those considered sodium sufficient (73% ± 20% AI) (p = 0.031). One child was considered possibly phosphorus deficient, but none was assessed as likely potassium deficient. The conclusion was that sodium deficiencies were likely prevalent among the children. The findings from this small observational study suggest that sodium intakes for tube-fed children with CP should be maintained near the AI for their age. Hydration status of children receiving hypercaloric formulas should be monitored.
Sasanquasaponin up-regulates anion exchanger 3 expression and elicits cardioprotection via NO/RAS/ERK1/2 pathway
Authors: Chen He-Ping , He Ming , Mei Zhu-Jun , Huang Qi-Ren , Huang Min
Published: July 2012

We have shown recently that sasanquasaponin (SQS) can inhibit ischemia/reperfusion-induced elevation of intracellular Cl–concentration ([Cl–]i) and elicit cardioprotection by up-regulating anion exchanger 3 (AE3) expression. In the present study, we futher analysed the intracellular signal transduction pathways by which SQS up-regulates AE3expression and elicits cardioprotection. Cardiomyocytes were incubated for 24 h with or without 10 µmol/L SQS, followed by simulated ischemia/reperfusion (sI/R). NO formation, Ras activity, and extracellular-regulated kinase 1/2 (ERK1/2) phosphorylation were measured appropriately. We showed that SQS pretreatment efficiently attenuated viability loss and lactate dehydrogenase leakage induced by sI/R in cardiomyocytes. Moreover, SQS induced NO production and promoted Ras activation, which futher promoted extracellular-regulated kinase 1/2 (ERK1/2) phosphorylation. These effects were paralleled by an increase in AE3expression. However, when the cardiomyocytes were treated with 2-(4-carboxyphenyl)-4,4,5,5-tetramethylimidazoline-l-oxyl-3-oxide (c-PTIO; an NO scavenger), S-trans-trans-farnesylthiosalicylic acid (FTS) (a Ras inhibitor), U0126 (an ERK1/2 inhibitor), respectively, the increase in AE3expression occurring during SQS pretreatment was almost completely abolished and, as a result, SQS-induced cardioprotection was prevented. Our findings indicate that SQS might up-regulate AE3expression through NO/Ras/ERK1/2 signal pathway to elicit cardioprotection in cultured cardiomyocytes.
Low-dose theophylline restores corticosteroid responsiveness in rats with smoke-induced airway inflammation
Authors: Sun Xianwen , Li Qingyun , Gong Yi , Ren Lei , Wan Huanying , Deng Weiwu
Published: July 2012

Patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) respond poorly to corticosteroids. Histone deacetylase-2 (HDAC-2) plays a pivotal role in many cases of steroid insensitivity. The main aim of this study was to restore the smoking-induced reduction in corticosteroid sensitivity by increasing HDAC-2 activity using low-dose theophylline. Rats were exposed to cigarette smoke (CS) and treated with budesonide and two doses of theophylline. Besides the pathologic examination and cell counting in the bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF), the expression of HDAC-2 and CXC chemokine ligand-8 (CXCL-8) were measured. Airway inflammation induced by CS was demonstrated by pathologic changes of lung tissue and increased level of CXCL-8. CS exposure also markedly decreased HDAC-2 expression. Moreover, a negative correlation was found between HDAC-2 activity and a lung destruction index. The index was restored to control levels with inhaled corticosteroid treatment in combination with a low, not a high, dose of theophylline. These results indicate that low-dose theophylline might provide protection from smoke damage and improve the anti-inflammatory effects of steroids by increasing HDAC-2 activity.
A study about drug combination therapy of Schisandra sphenanthera extract and Rapamycin in healthy subjects
Authors: Li Ruidong , Guo Wenyuan , Fu Zhiren , Ding Guoshan , Wang Zhengxin , Fu Hong
Published: July 2012

To assess the effect of the drug combination of Schisandra sphenanthera extract (SchE) and Rapamycin (RAPA), 18 healthy subjects were given oral treatments of RAPA alone and with SchE. Pharmacokinetic investigations and indexes of hepatic and renal functions, as well as other indices of oral RAPA administration (2 mg), were performed both before and after the SchE treatment period. Whole-blood RAPA concentrations were determined by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. The research found that the mean whole-blood RAPA AUC0–∞, Cmax, and tmax increased almost 2-, 2.1-, and 1.3-fold, respectively, and CL/F (–38.0%) decreased almost 1.6-fold in these subjects when RAPA was administered with SchE compared with oral RAPA administered alone. The results of this study proved that SchE can increase the oral bioavailability of RAPA and will add important information to the interaction area between drugs and herbal products.
THE ROLE OF DEVELOPING COUNTRIES IN GLOBAL ECONOMIC GOVERNANCE
Authors: LLOYD PETER
Published: July 2012

The paper reviews critically the arguments concerning greater voice for Developing Countries in global governance. It supports the arguments for greater voice but argues that greater voice brings with it greater responsibilities in terms of the actions and commitments from Developing Countries. The two main illustrations are the multilateral trade negotiations in the WTO and the negotiations concerning climate change in the UN. In both case, it is argued, developing countries must assume greater responsibilities if these negotiations are to be concluded. This can be done in a way which yields net benefits to the Developing Countries themselves.
PATTERNS OF EXCHANGE RATES AND CURRENT ACCOUNTS: THE EAST ASIAN WALTZ
Authors: SHENG ANDREW , KWEK KIAN TENG , CHO CHO WAI
Published: July 2012

The Global Financial Crisis of 2008 and the Asian Financial Crisis of 1997–1998 have a common trait, that is any shock to the financial system or market system can cause the system or market to flip from one state to another state.
VELOCITY OF LIGHT IN DARK MATTER WITH CHARGE
Authors: ODA ICHIRO
Published: July 2012

We propose an interesting mechanism to reconcile the recent experiments of the Michelson–Morley type and slowdown of the velocity of light in dark matter with a fractional electric charge when the index of refraction of dark matter depends on the frequency of a photon. After deriving the formula for the velocity of light in a medium with the index of refraction n(ω) in a relativistic regime, it is shown that the local anisotropy of the light speed is proportional to the second order in n(ω) - 1. This result implies that the experiments of the Michelson–Morley type do not give rise to a stringent constraint on the slowdown of the velocity of light in dark matter with electric charge.
A STUDY OF THE INFLUENCE OF THE GAUGE GROUP ON THE DYSON–SCHWINGER EQUATIONS FOR SCALAR-YANG–MILLS SYSTEMS
Authors: MACHER VERONIKA , MAAS AXEL , ALKOFER REINHARD
Published: July 2012

The particular choice of the gauge group for Yang–Mills theory plays an important role when it comes to the influence of matter fields. In particular, both the chosen gauge group and the representation of the matter fields yield structural differences in the quenched case. Especially, the qualitative behavior of the Wilson potential is strongly dependent on this selection. Though the algebraic reasons for this observation is clear, it is far from obvious how this behavior can be described besides using numerical simulations. Herein, it is investigated how the group structure appears in the Dyson–Schwinger equations, which as a hierarchy of equations for the correlation functions have to be satisfied. It is found that there are differences depending on both the gauge group and the representation of the matter fields. This provides insight into possible truncation schemes for practical calculations using these equations.
LONG MEMORY IN STOCK MARKET VOLATILITY: THE INTERNATIONAL EVIDENCE
Authors: YANG CHUNXIA , HU SEN , XIA BINGYING , WANG RUI
Published: July 2012

It is still a hot topic to catch the auto-dependence behavior of volatility. Here, based on the measurement of average volatility, under different observation window size, we investigated the dependence of successive volatility of several main stock indices and their simulated GARCH(1, 1) model, there were obvious linear auto-dependence in the logarithm of volatility under a small observation window size and nonlinear auto-dependence under a big observation. After calculating the correlation and mutual information of the logarithm of volatility for Dow Jones Industrial Average during different periods, we find that some influential events can change the correlation structure and the volatilities of different periods have distinct influence on that of the remote future. Besides, GARCH model could produce similar behavior of dependence as real data and long memory property. But our analyses show that the auto-dependence of volatility in GARCH is different from that in real data, and the long memory is undervalued by GARCH.
EFFECT OF CURRENT DENSITY ON OPTICAL PROPERTIES OF ANISOTROPIC PHOTOELECTROCHEMICAL ETCHED SILICON (110)
Authors: AMIRHOSEINY M. , HASSAN Z. , NG S. S.
Published: July 2012

Photoelectrochemical etched Si layers were prepared on n-type (110) oriented silicon wafer. The photoluminescence (PL), Fourier transformed infrared (FTIR) absorption and Raman spectroscopies of etched Si (110) at two different current densities were studied. Both samples showed PL peak in the visible spectral range situated from 650 nm to 750 nm. The corresponding changes in Raman spectra at different current density are discussed. The blue shift in the PL and Raman peaks is consequent of the quantum confinement effect and defect states of surface Si nanocrystallites complexes and hydrogen atoms of the photoelectrochemical etched Si (110) samples. The attenuated total reflection (ATR) results show both hydrogen and oxygen related IR modes in the samples which can be used to explain the PL effect.
GENERICITY ASPECTS IN GRAVITATIONAL COLLAPSE TO BLACK HOLES AND NAKED SINGULARITIES
Authors: JOSHI PANKAJ S. , MALAFARINA DANIELE , SARAYKAR RAVINDRA V.
Published: July 2012

Here we investigate the genericity and stability aspects for naked singularities and black holes that arise as the final states for a complete gravitational collapse of a spherical massive matter cloud. The form of the matter considered is a general Type I matter field, which includes most of the physically reasonable matter fields such as dust, perfect fluids and such other physically interesting forms of matter widely used in gravitation theory. Here, we first study in some detail the effects of small pressure perturbations in an otherwise pressure-free collapse scenario, and examine how a collapse evolution that was going to the black hole endstate would be modified and go to a naked singularity, once small pressures are introduced in the initial data. This allows us to understand the distribution of black holes and naked singularities in the initial data space. Collapse is examined in terms of the evolutions allowed by Einstein equations, under suitable physical conditions and as evolving from a regular initial data. We then show that both black holes and naked singularities are generic outcomes of a complete collapse, when genericity is defined in a suitable sense in an appropriate space.
OPTICAL LIMITING IN NONLINEAR FIBER BRAGG GRATING
Authors: PAWAR SANTOSH , KUMBHAJ SHUBHADA , SEN PRATIMA , SEN PRANAY KUMAR
Published: July 2012

Nonlinear refraction based optical limiting phenomena is investigated analytically in the transmission mode of a fiber Bragg grating using coupled mode theory. A simple expression for intensity dependent transmittivity has been obtained by incorporating the Kerr effect in nonlinear coupled equations. The transmission is studied as a function of the incident intensity at various incident wavelengths. We have found that the transmittance of the grating gradually increases as a ramp function and becomes constant after a critical intensity when the wavelength of the incident light is tuned above the Bragg wavelength.
A GENERALIZATION OF HAUSDORFF DIMENSION APPLIED TO HILBERT CUBES AND WASSERSTEIN SPACES
Authors: KLOECKNER BENOÎT
Published: July 2012

A Wasserstein space is a metric space of sufficiently concentrated probability measures over a general metric space. The main goal of this paper is to estimate the largeness of Wasserstein spaces, in a sense to be made precise.

In the first part, we generalize the Hausdorff dimension by defining a family of bi-Lipschitz invariants, called critical parameters, that measure largeness for infinite-dimensional metric spaces. Basic properties of these invariants are given, and they are estimated for a natural set of spaces generalizing the usual Hilbert cube. These invariants are very similar to concepts initiated by Rogers, but our variant is specifically suited to tackle Lipschitz comparison.

In the second part, we estimate the value of these new invariants in the case of some Wasserstein spaces, as well as the dynamical complexity of push-forward maps. The lower bounds rely on several embedding results; for example we provide uniform bi-Lipschitz embeddings of all powers of any space inside its Wasserstein space and we prove that the Wasserstein space of a d-manifold has "power-exponential" critical parameter equal to d. These arguments are very easily adapted to study the space of closed subsets of a compact metric space, partly generalizing results of Boardman, Goodey and McClure.
QUASI-MORPHISMS AND Lp-METRICS ON GROUPS OF VOLUME-PRESERVING DIFFEOMORPHISMS
Authors: BRANDENBURSKY MICHAEL
Published: July 2012

Let M be a smooth compact connected oriented manifold of dimension at least two endowed with a volume form μ. We show that every homogeneous quasi-morphism on the identity component Diff 0(M, μ) of the group of volume-preserving diffeomorphisms of M, which is induced by a quasi-morphism on the fundamental group π1(M), is Lipschitz with respect to the Lp-metric on Diff 0(M, μ). As a consequence, assuming certain conditions on π1(M), we construct bi-Lipschitz embeddings of finite dimensional vector spaces into Diff 0(M, μ).
Multidisciplinary Management of a Fractured Premolar: A Case Report with Followup
Authors: Kondapuram Seshu Madhavi R. , Gash Christopher Leslie
Published: July 2012

The general dental practitioner must consider orthodontic extrusion of a tooth when a subgingival defect, such as, crown fracture occurs before prosthetic rehabilitation, especially in the aesthetic zone. Extrusion enables the root portion to be elevated which exposes sound tooth structure for placement of restorative margins. This case report describes the multidisciplinary management of a fractured upper first premolar in a general dental practice. The forced orthodontic eruption is achieved by an endodontic attachment and sectional fixed appliance with an offset placed in the wire. The ability to extrude premolars with this method is complicated by heavy occlusal forces, occlusal interferences, and short clinical crown length. The tooth was restored with a titanium post, composite core, and porcelain fused to metal crown. The entire course of treatment was carried out under National Health Scheme, UK and as a part of vocational training. The 21 months followup showed no change in occlusal contacts or gingival level.
Oxidative Stress and the ER Stress Response in a Murine Model for Early-Stage Alcoholic Liver Disease
Authors: Galligan James J. , Smathers Rebecca L. , Shearn Colin T. , Fritz Kristofer S. , Backos Donald S. , Jiang Hua , Franklin Christopher C. , Orlicky David J. , MacLean Kenneth N. , Petersen Dennis R.
Published: July 2012

Alcoholic liver disease (ALD) is a primary cause of morbidity and mortality in the United States and constitutes a significant socioeconomic burden. Previous work has implicated oxidative stress and endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress in the etiology of ALD; however, the complex and interrelated nature of these cellular responses presently confounds our understanding of ethanol-induced hepatopathy. In this paper, we assessed the pathological contribution of oxidative stress and ER stress in a time-course mouse model of early-stage ALD. Ethanol-treated mice exhibited significant hepatic panlobular steatosis and elevated plasma ALT values compared to isocaloric controls. Oxidative stress was observed in the ethanol-treated animals through a significant increase in hepatic TBARS and immunohistochemical staining of 4-HNE-modified proteins. Hepatic glutathione (GSH) levels were significantly decreased as a consequence of decreased CBS activity, increased GSH utilization, and increased protein glutathionylation. At the same time, immunoblot analysis of the PERK, IRE1α, ATF6, and SREBP pathways reveals no significant role for these UPR pathways in the etiology of hepatic steatosis associated with early-stage ALD. Collectively, our results indicate a primary pathogenic role for oxidative stress in the early initiating stages of ALD that precedes the involvement of the ER stress response.
Trends of Components of the Metabolic Syndrome in German First Graders Throughout 10 Years: The PEP Family Heart Study
Authors: Haas Gerda-Maria , Bertsch Thomas , Schwandt Peter
Published: July 2012

Although childhood overweight and obesity are increasing worldwide, some countries report trends for stabilization. However, the trend for the potentially atherogenic components of the metabolic syndrome (MetS) in children and adolescents is not well understood. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to analyze the trend of the five components of over 10 years in 2228 first graders aged 6 years. Waist circumference (WC) remained mainly unchanged between 1994 and 2003 whereas the other four components continuously decreased. In boys and girls mean values of triglycerides (−25.9% and −28.6%, resp.), HDL cholesterol (−19.8% and −23.4%, resp.), fasting glucose (−7.3% and −9%, resp.), systolic (−3.8% and −4.1%, resp.), and diastolic (−10.2% and −9.7%, resp.) blood pressure significantly decreased. Whereas the prevalence of abdominal adiposity was stable at baseline and after 10 years (−1% in boys and +2% in girls), the prevalence of hypertension, hypertriglyceridemia, low HDL-C, and glucose was very low without any trend.
Use of the Signature Fatty Acid 16:1ω5 as a Tool to Determine the Distribution of Arbuscular Mycorrhizal Fungi in Soil
Authors: Ngosong Christopher , Gabriel Elke , Ruess Liliane
Published: July 2012

Biomass estimation of arbuscular mycorrhiza (AM) fungi, widespread plant root symbionts, commonly employs lipid biomarkers, predominantly the fatty acid 16:1ω5. We briefly reviewed the application of this signature fatty acid, followed by a case study comparing biochemical markers with microscopic techniques in an arable soil following a change to AM non-host plants after 27 years of continuous host crops, that is, two successive cropping seasons with wheat followed by amaranth. After switching to the non-host amaranth, spore biomass estimated by the neutral lipid fatty acid (NLFA) 16:1ω5 decreased to almost nil, whereas microscopic spore counts decreased by about 50% only. In contrast, AM hyphal biomass assessed by the phospholipid (PLFA) 16:1ω5 was greater under amaranth than wheat. The application of PLFA 16:1ω5 as biomarker was hampered by background level derived from bacteria, and further enhanced by its incorporation from degrading spores used as microbial resource. Meanwhile, biochemical and morphological assessments showed negative correlation for spores and none for hyphal biomass. In conclusion, the NLFA 16:1ω5 appears to be a feasible indicator for AM fungi of the Glomales group in the complex field soils, whereas the use of PLFA 16:1ω5 for hyphae is unsuitable and should be restricted to controlled laboratory studies.
Bounded Positive Solutions for a Third Order Discrete Equation
Authors: Liu Zeqing , Jia Ming , Kang Shin Min , Kwun Young Chel
Published: July 2012

This paper studies the following third order neutral delay discrete equation , where τ, l ∈ ℕ, n0 ∈ ℕ ∪ {0}, , , are real sequences with an ≠ 0 for n ≥ n0, with lim n→∞(n − din) = +∞ for i ∈ {1,2, …, l} and . By using a nonlinear alternative theorem of Leray‐Schauder type, we get sufficient conditions which ensure the existence of bounded positive solutions for the equation. Three examples are given to illustrate the results obtained in this paper.
Involvement of the Ligninolytic System of White-Rot and Litter-Decomposing Fungi in the Degradation of Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons
Authors: Pozdnyakova Natalia N.
Published: July 2012

Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) are natural and anthropogenic aromatic hydrocarbons with two or more fused benzene rings. Because of their ubiquitous occurrence, recalcitrance, bioaccumulation potential and carcinogenic activity, PAHs are a significant environmental concern. Ligninolytic fungi, such asPhanerochaete chrysosporium, Bjerkandera adusta, andPleurotus ostreatus, have the capacity of PAH degradation. The enzymes involved in the degradation of PAHs are ligninolytic and include lignin peroxidase, versatile peroxidase, Mn-peroxidase, and laccase. This paper summarizes the data available on PAH degradation by fungi belonging to different ecophysiological groups (white-rot and litter-decomposing fungi) under submerged cultivation and during mycoremediation of PAH-contaminated soils. The role of the ligninolytic enzymes of these fungi in PAH degradation is discussed.
Simulation of Wave Overtopping of Maritime Structures in a Numerical Wave Flume
Authors: Oliveira Tiago C. A. , Sánchez-Arcilla Agustín , Gironella Xavier
Published: July 2012

A numerical wave flume based on the particle finite element method (PFEM) is applied to simulate wave overtopping for impermeable maritime structures. An assessment of the performance and robustness of the numerical wave flume is carried out for two different cases comparing numerical results with experimental data. In the first case, a well‐defined benchmark test of a simple low‐crested structure overtopped by regular nonbreaking waves is presented, tested in the lab, and simulated in the numerical wave flume. In the second case, state‐of‐the‐art physical experiments of a trapezoidal structure placed on a sloping beach overtopped by regular breaking waves are simulated in the numerical wave flume. For both cases, main overtopping events are well detected by the numerical wave flume. However, nonlinear processes controlling the tests proposed, such as nonlinear wave generation, energy losses along the wave propagation track, wave reflection, and overtopping events, are reproduced with more accuracy in the first case. Results indicate that a numerical wave flume based on the PFEM can be applied as an efficient tool to supplement physical models, semiempirical formulations, and other numerical techniques to deal with overtopping of maritime structures.
Modeling the Dynamics of an Epidemic under Vaccination in Two Interacting Populations
Authors: Ahmed Ibrahim H. I. , Witbooi Peter J. , Patidar Kailash
Published: July 2012

We present a model for an SIR epidemic in a population consisting of two components—locals and migrants. We identify three equilibrium points and we analyse the stability of the disease free equilibrium. Then we apply optimal control theory to find an optimal vaccination strategy for this 2‐group population in a very simple form. Finally we support our analysis by numerical simulation using the fourth order Runge‐Kutta method.
Computing the Fixed Points of Strictly Pseudocontractive Mappings by the Implicit and Explicit Iterations
Authors: Liou Yeong-Cheng
Published: July 2012

It is known that strictly pseudocontractive mappings have more powerful applications than nonexpansive mappings in solving inverse problems. In this paper, we devote to study computing the fixed points of strictly pseudocontractive mappings by the iterations. Two iterative methods (one implicit and another explicit) for finding the fixed point of strictly pseudocontractive mappings have been constructed in Hilbert spaces. As special cases, we can use these two methods to find the minimum norm fixed point of strictly pseudocontractive mappings.
State of the Art in Stem Cell Research: Human Embryonic Stem Cells, Induced Pluripotent Stem Cells, and Transdifferentiation
Authors: de Peppo Giuseppe Maria , Marolt Darja
Published: July 2012

Stem cells divide by asymmetric division and display different degrees of potency, or ability to differentiate into various specialized cell types. Owing to their unique regenerative capacity, stem cells have generated great enthusiasm worldwide and represent an invaluable tool with unprecedented potential for biomedical research and therapeutic applications. Stem cells play a central role in the understanding of molecular mechanisms regulating tissue development and regeneration in normal and pathological conditions and open large possibilities for the discovery of innovative pharmaceuticals to treat the most devastating diseases of our time. Not least, their intrinsic characteristics allow the engineering of functional tissues for replacement therapies that promise to revolutionize the medical practice in the near future. In this paper, the authors present the characteristics of pluripotent stem cells and new developments of transdifferentiation technologies and explore some of the biomedical applications that this emerging technology is expected to empower.
Triterpenoid-Rich Extract fromAntrodia camphorataImproves Physical Fatigue and Exercise Performance in Mice
Authors: Huang Chi-Chang , Hsu Mei-Chich , Huang Wen-Ching , Yang Huei-Ru , Hou Chia-Chung
Published: July 2012

Antrodia camphorata(AC) is an endemic mushroom that grows in Taiwan. We investigated the fatigue-alleviating effects of AC on endurance capacity in swim-exercised and weight-loading mice. Male Institute of Cancer Research (ICR) strain mice from 3 groups (n=10per group in each test) were orally administered AC fruiting body extract for 7 days at 0, 50, and 200 mg/kg/day, designated vehicle, AC-50, and AC-200, respectively. Trend analysis revealed that AC treatments increased grip strength. AC dose-dependently increased swim time, blood glucose, and muscular and hepatic glycogen levels and dose-dependently decreased plasma lactate and ammonia levels and creatine kinase activity. The increase in swimming endurance with AC administration was caused by an increase in liver and muscle glycogen deposition.A. camphoratamay have potential for use in ergogenic and antifatigue activities.
Fuzzy Interpolation and Other Interpolation Methods Used in Robot Calibrations
Authors: Bai Ying , Guo Nailong , Agbegha Gerald
Published: July 2012

A novel interpolation algorithm, fuzzy interpolation, is presented and compared with other popular interpolation methods widely implemented in industrial robots calibrations and manufacturing applications. Different interpolation algorithms have been developed, reported, and implemented in many industrial robot calibrations and manufacturing processes in recent years. Most of them are based on looking for the optimal interpolation trajectories based on some known values on given points around a workspace. However, it is rare to build an optimal interpolation results based on some random noises, and this is one of the most popular topics in industrial testing and measurement applications. The fuzzy interpolation algorithm (FIA) reported in this paper provides a convenient and simple way to solve this problem and offers more accurate interpolation results based on given position or orientation errors that are randomly distributed in real time. This method can be implemented in many industrial applications, such as manipulators measurements and calibrations, industrial automations, and semiconductor manufacturing processes.
Impact of Preparative pH on the Morphology and Photocatalytic Activity of BiVO4
Authors: Wan Yongbiao , Wang Sihong , Luo Wenhao , Zhao Lianhua
Published: July 2012

Adjusting pH with an ammonia solution during the synthesis, single-crystalline BiVO4has been prepared using Bi(NO3)3·5H2O and NH4VO3as starting materials through aqueous-phase precipitation at room temperature. The prepared samples are characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD), diffuse reflectance spectroscopy (DRS), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), and scanning electron microscope (SEM). The impact of pH on structure, surface morphology, visible-light photocatalytic activity, and light absorption performance of BiVO4is explored and discussed. During the synthesis process, neither extremely acidic (low pH) nor basic (high pH) conditions are desirable for the formation of BiVO4in monoclinic phase. The highest photocatalytic performance on the degradation of a methylene blue solution is observed under pH=7.0for BiVO4in monoclinic scheelite, which is attributed to its small grain size and marked surface oxygen evolution ability.
Syphilis Infection during Pregnancy: Fetal Risks and Clinical Management
Authors: De Santis Marco , De Luca Carmen , Mappa Ilenia , Spagnuolo Terryann , Licameli Angelo , Straface Gianluca , Scambia Giovanni
Published: July 2012

Congenital syphilis is still a cause of perinatal morbidity and mortality. Untreated maternal infection leads to adverse pregnancy outcomes, including early fetal loss, stillbirth, prematurity, low birth weight, neonatal and infant death, and congenital disease among newborns. Clinical manifestations of congenital syphilis are influenced by gestational age, stage of maternal syphilis, maternal treatment, and immunological response of the fetus. It has been traditionally classified in early congenital syphilis and late congenital syphilis. Diagnosis of maternal infection is based on clinical findings, serological tests, and direct identification of treponemes in clinical specimens. Adequate treatment of maternal infection is effective for preventing maternal transmission to the fetus and for treating fetal infection. Prenatal diagnosis of congenital syphilis includes noninvasive and invasive diagnosis. Serological screening during pregnancy and during preconception period should be performed to reduce the incidence of congenital syphilis.
Vitamin D in Early Childhood and the Effect on Immunity toMycobacterium tuberculosis
Authors: Battersby Anna Jane , Kampmann Beate , Burl Sarah
Published: July 2012

A potential role for vitamin D as a therapeutic immunomodulator in tuberculosis (TB) has been recognised for over 150 years, but has only recently returned to the centre of the research arena due to the increasing awareness of the global vitamin D deficiency epidemic. As early as birth a child is often deficient in vitamin D, which may not only affect their bone metabolism but also modulate their immune function, contributing to the increased susceptibility to many infections seen early in life. Recent studies have begun to explain the mechanisms by which vitamin D affects immunity. Antimicrobial peptides are induced in conjunction with stimulation of innate pattern recognition receptors enhancing immunity to particular infections. In contrast the role of vitamin D within the adaptive immune response appears to be more regulatory in function, perhaps as a mechanism to reduce unwanted inflammation. In this paper we focus on the effect of vitamin D on immunity to TB. Where much of the attention has been paid by past reviews to the role of vitamin D in adult TB patients, this paper, where possible, focuses on research in paediatric populations.
Interactions between the Real Economy and the Stock Market: A Simple Agent‐Based Approach
Authors: Westerhoff Frank
Published: July 2012

We develop a simple behavioral macromodel to study interactions between the real economy and the stock market. The real economy is represented by a Keynesian‐type goods market approach while the setup for the stock market includes heterogeneous speculators. Using a mixture of analytical and numerical tools we find, for instance, that speculators may create endogenous boom‐bust dynamics in the stock market which, by spilling over into the real economy, can cause lasting fluctuations in economic activity. However, fluctuations in economic activity may, by shaping the firms′ fundamental values, also have an impact on the dynamics of the stock market.
Understanding the Mechanisms of Proteinuria: Therapeutic Implications
Authors: Toblli Jorge E. , Bevione P. , Di Gennaro F. , Madalena L. , Cao G. , Angerosa M.
Published: July 2012

A large body of evidence indicates that proteinuria is a strong predictor of morbidity, a cause of inflammation, oxidative stress and progression of chronic kidney disease, and development of cardiovascular disease. The processes that lead to proteinuria are complex and involve factors such as glomerular hemodynamic, tubular absorption, and diffusion gradients. Alterations in various different molecular pathways and interactions may lead to the identical clinical end points of proteinuria and chronic kidney disease. Glomerular diseases include a wide range of immune and nonimmune insults that may target and thus damage some components of the glomerular filtration barrier. In many of these conditions, the renal visceral epithelial cell (podocyte) responds to injury along defined pathways, which may explain the resultant clinical and histological changes. The recent discovery of the molecular components of the slit diaphragm, specialized structure of podocyte-podocyte interaction, has been a major breakthrough in understanding the crucial role of the epithelial layer of the glomerular barrier and the pathogenesis of proteinuria. Thispaper provides an overview and update on the structure and function of the glomerular filtration barrier and the pathogenesis of proteinuria, highlighting the role of the podocyte in this setting. In addition, current antiproteinuric therapeutic approaches are briefly commented.
Positive Solutions for Sturm‐Liouville Boundary Value Problems in a Banach Space
Authors: Su Hua , Liu Lishan , Wu Yonghong
Published: July 2012

We consider the existence of single and multiple positive solutions for a second‐order Sturm‐Liouville boundary value problem in a Banach space. The sufficient condition for the existence of positive solution is obtained by the fixed point theorem of strict set contraction operators in the frame of the ODE technique. Our results significantly extend and improve many known results including singular and nonsingular cases.
The Dragon and the Tiger: Realties in the Control of Tuberculosis
Authors: Bhatter P. , Chatterjee A. , Mistry N.
Published: July 2012

India and China are two Asian super-powers with developing economies carried on the shoulders of their booming populations. This growth can only be sustained by nurturing their “human resource”. However increasing reports of insufficient public health (PH) initiatives in India when compared to the aggressive PH system of China may prove to be the Achilles’ heels for India. This review compares the PH system in India and China for combating Tuberculosis (TB), the disease responsible for maximum mortality and morbidity by a single infectious agent. While China has acknowledged the disease load and thereafter has methodically improved its reporting, detection, diagnosis and treatment, India is still in denial of the imminent health risk. The Indian PH system still considers TB as a “facultative” disease for which the required control measures are already in place and functioning. Globally, India and China recorded the highest Multi-Drug Resistant TB (MDR) cases notified in 2010 (64000 and 63000, respectively). Additionally non-government sources reported extremely high proportions of MDR in India. Here we have compared the medical, social and economic approaches of the two nations towards better management and control of TB. Does India have lessons to learn from China?
Effects of Thymol and Carvacrol, Constituents ofThymus vulgarisL. Essential Oil, on the Inflammatory Response
Authors: Fachini-Queiroz Fernanda Carolina , Kummer Raquel , Estevão-Silva Camila Fernanda , Carvalho Maria Dalva de Barros , Cunha Joice Maria , Grespan Renata , Bersani-Amado Ciomar Aparecida , Cuman Roberto Kenji Nakamura
Published: July 2012

Thyme (Thymus vulgarisL., Lamiaceae) is an aromatic and medicinal plant that has been used in folk medicine, phytopharmaceutical preparations, food preservatives, and as an aromatic ingredient. The effect ofThymus vulgarisessential oil (TEO) and its isolated constituents thymol and cavacrol (CVL) were studied in the following experimental models: ear edema, carrageenan-induced pleurisy, and chemotaxisin vitro. In the pleurisy model, TEO, CVL, and thymol significantly inhibited inflammatory edema. However, only TEO and CVL inhibited leukocyte migration. In thein vitrochemotaxis experiment, CVL inhibited leukocyte migration, whereas thymol exerted a potent chemoattractant effect. In the ear edema model, CVL (10 mg/ear), applied topically, reduced edema formation, exerting a topical anti-inflammatory effect. Thymol did not reduce edema formation but rather presented an irritative response, probably dependent on histamine and prostanoid release. Our data suggest that the antiinflammatory effects of TEO and CVL are attributable to the inhibition of inflammatory edema and leukocyte migration.
Comparison between Single-Dose Esomeprazole- and Pantoprazole-Based Triple Therapy on the Effectiveness forHelicobacter pyloriEradication in Taiwanese Population
Authors: Shih Hsiang-Yao , Wang Sophie S. W. , Kuo Chao-Hung , Kuo Fu-Chen , Chen Yi-Yu , Wu Meng-Chieh , Weng Bi-Chuang , Lee Yi-Chern , Hu Chi-Tan , Wu Deng-Chyang , Chen Yen-Hsu
Published: July 2012

Background and Study Aims.To compare the effectiveness of two regimens, single-dose esomeprazole- and pantoprazole-based triple therapy, forHelicobacter pylori(H. pylori) eradication.Patients and Methods.A total of 453 patients were enrolled forH. pylorieradication. They were randomly assigned to either EAC group (Esomeprazole 40 mg once daily, Amoxicillin 1 g twice daily, Clarithromycin 500 mg twice daily for 7 days) or PAC group (Pantoprazole 40 mg twice daily, Amoxicillin 1 g twice daily, Clarithromycin 500 mg twice daily for 7 days). Follow-up endoscopy or urea breath test was scheduled 12–16 weeks after the eradication to evaluate the therapeutic response.Results.Higher eradication rate in EAC group than PAC group was shown by intention-to-treat analysis (EAC 72% versus PAC 55%,P<0.05) and per-protocol analysis (EAC 91% versus PAC 72%,P<0.05). The incidence of adverse effects (EAC 19% versus PAC 17%,P=0.712) and the compliance (EAC 87% versus PAC 91%,P=0.083) were comparable between these 2 groups.Conclusions.Single-dose esomeprazole-based triple therapy is effective forH. pylorieradication.
Alterations in Nitric Oxide Synthase in the Aged CNS
Authors: Jung Junyang , Na Changhyun , Huh Youngbuhm
Published: July 2012

Aging is associated with neuronal loss, gross weight reduction of the brain, and glial proliferation in the cortex, all of which lead to functional changes in the brain. It is known that oxidative stress is a critical factor in the pathogenesis of aging; additionally, growing evidence suggests that excessive nitric oxide (NO) production contributes to the aging process. However, it is still unclear how NO plays a role in the aging process. This paper describes age-related changes in the activity of NADPH-diaphorase (NADPH-d), a marker for neurons containing nitric oxide synthase (NOS), in many CNS regions. Understanding these changes may provide a novel perspective in identifying the aging mechanism.
Schizandrin, an Antioxidant Lignan fromSchisandra chinensis,Ameliorates Aβ1–42-Induced Memory Impairment in Mice
Authors: Hu Di , Cao Yunfeng , He Rongrong , Han Na , Liu Zhihui , Miao Lijing , Yin Jun
Published: July 2012

In the present study, we examined the effect of schisandrin (SCH) ofSchisandra chinensison the amyloid-beta1–42- (Aβ1–42-) induced memory impairment in mice and elucidated the possible antioxidative mechanism. Mice were intracerebroventricular (i.c.v.) injected with the aggregated Aβ1–42and then treated with SCH (4, 12, and 36 mg/kg body weight) or donepezil (DPZ), a reference drug (0.65 mg/kg) by intragastric infusion for 14 days. Noncognitive disturbances and cognitive performance were evaluated by locomotor activity test, Y-maze test, and water maze test. Antioxidative enzyme activities including superoxide dismutase (SOD) and glutathione peroxidase (GSH-px) and levels of malondialdehyde (MDA), glutathione (GSH), and oxidized glutathione (GSSG) within the cerebral cortex and hippocampus of mice were measured to elucidate the mechanism. Our results showed that SCH significantly improved Aβ1–42-induced short-term and spatial reference memory impairments in Y-maze test and water maze test. Furthermore, in the cerebral cortex and hippocampus of mice, SOD and GSH-px activities, GSH level, and GSH/GSSG ratio were increased, and levels of MDA and GSSG were decreased by the treatment of SCH. These results suggest that SCH is a potential cognitive enhancer against Alzheimer’s disease through antioxidative action.