bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Developmental constraints of quadrupedal coordination across crawling styles in human infants
Authors: Patrick Susan K. , Noah J. Adam , Yang Jaynie F.
Published: March 2012

Human infants can crawl using several very different styles; this diversity appears at first glance to contradict our previous findings from hands-and-knees crawling, which suggested that there were strict limitations on coordination, imposed either mechanically or by the developing nervous system. To determine whether coordination was similarly restricted across crawling styles, we studied free crawling overground in 22 infants who used a number of different locomotor strategies. Despite the wide variety in the use of individual limbs and even the number of limbs used, the duration of the stance phase increased with duration of cycle, whereas the duration of the swing phase remained more constant. Additionally, all infants showed organized, rhythmic interlimb coordination. Alternating patterns (e.g., trotlike) predominated (86% of infants). Alternatively, yet much less frequently, all limbs used could work in synchrony (14% of infants). Pacelike patterns were never observed, even in infants that crawled with the belly remaining in contact with the ground so that stability was not a factor. To explore the robustness of the interlimb coordination, a perturbation that prolonged swing of the leg was imposed on 14 additional infants crawling on hands and knees overground or on the treadmill. The perturbation led to a resetting of the crawling pattern, but never to a change in the coordination of the limbs. The findings concur with those regarding other infant animals, together suggesting that the nervous system itself limits the coordination patterns available at a young age.
Interaction between telencephalic signals and respiratory dynamics in songbirds
Authors: Méndez Jorge M. , Mindlin Gabriel B. , Goller Franz
Published: March 2012

The mechanisms by which telencephalic areas affect motor activities are largely unknown. They could either take over motor control from downstream motor circuits or interact with the intrinsic dynamics of these circuits. Both models have been proposed for telencephalic control of respiration during learned vocal behavior in birds. The interactive model postulates that simple signals from the telencephalic song control areas are sufficient to drive the nonlinear respiratory network into producing complex temporal sequences. We tested this basic assumption by electrically stimulating telencephalic song control areas and analyzing the resulting respiratory patterns in zebra finches and in canaries. We found strong evidence for interaction between the rhythm of stimulation and the intrinsic respiratory rhythm, including naturally emerging subharmonic behavior and integration of lateralized telencephalic input. The evidence for clear interaction in our experimental paradigm suggests that telencephalic vocal control also uses a similar mechanism. Furthermore, species differences in the response of the respiratory system to stimulation show parallels to differences in the respiratory patterns of song, suggesting that the interactive production of respiratory rhythms is manifested in species-specific specialization of the involved circuitry.
Interactions between network synchrony and the dynamics of neuronal threshold
Authors: Wallach Avner , Marom Shimon
Published: March 2012

Synchronous activity impacts on a range of functional brain capacities in health and disease. To address the interrelations between cellular level activity and network-wide synchronous events, we implemented in vitro a recently introduced technique, the response clamp, which enables online monitoring of single neuron threshold dynamics while ongoing network synchronous activity continues uninterrupted. We show that the occurrence of a synchronous network event causes a significant biphasic change in the single neuron threshold. These threshold dynamics are correlated across the neurons constituting the network and are entailed by the input to the neurons rather than by their own spiking (i.e., output) activity. The magnitude of network activity during a synchronous event is correlated with the threshold state of individual neurons at the event's onset. Recovery from the impact of a given synchronous event on the neuronal threshold lasts several seconds and seems to be a key determinant of the time to the next spontaneously occurring synchronous event. Moreover, the neuronal threshold is shown to be correlated with the excitability dynamics of the entire network. We conclude that the relations between the two levels (network activity and the single neuron threshold) should be thought of in terms that emphasize their interactive nature.
Microcircuits of excitatory and inhibitory neurons in layer 2/3 of mouse barrel cortex
Authors: Avermann Michael , Tomm Christian , Mateo Celine , Gerstner Wulfram , Petersen Carl C. H.
Published: March 2012

Synaptic interactions between nearby excitatory and inhibitory neurons in the neocortex are thought to play fundamental roles in sensory processing. Here, we have combined optogenetic stimulation, whole cell recordings, and computational modeling to define key functional microcircuits within layer 2/3 of mouse primary somatosensory barrel cortex. In vitro optogenetic stimulation of excitatory layer 2/3 neurons expressing channelrhodopsin-2 evoked a rapid sequence of excitation followed by inhibition. Fast-spiking (FS) GABAergic neurons received large-amplitude, fast-rising depolarizing postsynaptic potentials, often driving action potentials. In contrast, the same optogenetic stimulus evoked small-amplitude, subthreshold postsynaptic potentials in excitatory and non-fast-spiking (NFS) GABAergic neurons. To understand the synaptic mechanisms underlying this network activity, we investigated unitary synaptic connectivity through multiple simultaneous whole cell recordings. FS GABAergic neurons received unitary excitatory postsynaptic potentials with higher probability, larger amplitudes, and faster kinetics compared with NFS GABAergic neurons and other excitatory neurons. Both FS and NFS GABAergic neurons evoked robust inhibition on postsynaptic layer 2/3 neurons. A simple computational model based on the experimentally determined electrophysiological properties of the different classes of layer 2/3 neurons and their unitary synaptic connectivity accounted for key aspects of the network activity evoked by optogenetic stimulation, including the strong recruitment of FS GABAergic neurons acting to suppress firing of excitatory neurons. We conclude that FS GABAergic neurons play an important role in neocortical microcircuit function through their strong local synaptic connectivity, which might contribute to driving sparse coding in excitatory layer 2/3 neurons of mouse barrel cortex in vivo.
Intramuscular ketorolac inhibits activation of rat peripheral NMDA receptors
Authors: Cairns Brian E. , Dong Xu-Dong , Wong Hayes , Svensson Peter
Published: March 2012

The nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) diclofenac has local anesthetic-like and peripheral N-methyl-d-aspartate (NMDA) receptor antagonist characteristics when administered at higher concentrations to masticatory muscle. It is not known if the ability to inhibit NMDA receptors is unique to diclofenac or shared by other NSAIDs. This study was undertaken to determine whether intramuscular injection of ketorolac or naproxen at concentrations that do not induce local anesthetic-like effects could attenuate jaw-closer muscle nociceptor discharge in anesthetized Sprague-Dawley rats. It was found that ketorolac (5 mM) inhibited hypertonic saline-evoked nociceptor discharge, which suggests that at this concentration, ketorolac has local anesthetic-like properties. A lower concentration of ketorolac (0.5 mM), which did not affect hypertonic saline-evoked discharge, did inhibit nociceptor discharge evoked by NMDA. In contrast, naproxen (5 mM) did not alter hypertonic saline- or NMDA-evoked nociceptor discharge. Subsequent experiments revealed that ketorolac (0.5 mM) had no effect on nociceptor discharge evoked by αβ-methylene ATP, 5-hydroxytryptamine, or AMPA. The inhibitory effect of ketorolac did not appear to be related to cyclooxygenase inhibition, because the concentration of prostaglandin E2 in the masticatory muscles 10 min after injection of either NSAID was not significantly decreased. The present study indicates that in vivo, ketorolac, but not naproxen, can antagonize NMDA-evoked nociceptor discharge similarly to diclofenac. We speculate that structural similarities between ketorolac and diclofenac could account for the ability of these NSAIDs to inhibit NMDA-evoked nociceptor discharge. These properties may partly explain the analgesic effect of intramuscularly injected ketorolac in the clinic.
Relationship between Concentration Difference of Different Density Lipoproteins and Shear Stress in Atherosclerosis
Authors: Meng Wei , Yu Fengxu , Chen Huaiqing , Zhang Jianmin , Zhang Eryong , Guo Yingqiang , Shi Yingkang
Published: March 2012

Previous research has observed concentration polarization in LDL and HDL in the arterial system. However, there is no report that links this concentration polarization to the development of vascular atherosclerosis (AS). Therefore, the purpose of this study is to establish the relationship between concentration difference of LDL and HDL and shear stress using a carotid bifurcation vascular model. PTFE was employed to create the carotid bifurcation model. Endothelial cells were coated on the inner wall of the graft. In a recirculation system, HDL and LDL concentration were measured under two different ICA flow velocities at 5 different locations within our model. We report the following: (1) LDL and HDL concentration difference was observed in both high flow and low flow environments; (2) the degree of LDL and HDL concentration polarization varied depending of high flow and low flow environment; (3) absolute values of concentration difference between LDL and HDL at the inner wall surface decreased with the increase in shear stress when shear stress was more than 1.5 Pa. This variation trend would be more pronounced if shear stress were less than 0.5 Pa. Our study suggests that under the action of shear stress, concentration differences of LDL or HDL create a disturbance in the balance of atherogenic factors and anti-As factors, resulting in the occurrence of AS.
Age-Related Loss of Muscle Mass and Strength
Authors: Goldspink Geoffrey
Published: March 2012

Age-related muscle wasting and increased frailty are major socioeconomic as well as medical problems. In the quest to extend quality of life it is important to increase the strength of elderly people sufficiently so they can carry out everyday tasks and to prevent them falling and breaking bones that are brittle due to osteoporosis. Muscles generate the mechanical strain that contributes to the maintenance of other musculoskeletal tissues, and a vicious circle is established as muscle loss results in bone loss and weakening of tendons. Molecular and proteomic approaches now provide strategies for preventing age-related muscle wasting. Here, attention is paid to the role of the GH/IGF-1 axis and the special role of the IGFI-Ec (mechano growth factor/MGF) which is derived from the IGF-I gene by alternative splicing. During aging MGF levels decline but when administered MGF activates the muscle satellite (stem) cells that “kick start” local muscle repair and induces hypertrophy.
Histone Deacetylase Inhibitors in Cell Pluripotency, Differentiation, and Reprogramming
Authors: Kretsovali Androniki , Hadjimichael Christiana , Charmpilas Nikolaos
Published: March 2012

Histone deacetylase inhibitors (HDACi) are small molecules that have important and pleiotropic effects on cell homeostasis. Under distinct developmental conditions, they can promote either self-renewal or differentiation of embryonic stem cells. In addition, they can promote directed differentiation of embryonic and tissue-specific stem cells along the neuronal, cardiomyocytic, and hepatic lineages. They have been used to facilitate embryo development following somatic cell nuclear transfer and induced pluripotent stem cell derivation by ectopic expression of pluripotency factors. In the latter method, these molecules not only increase effectiveness, but can also render the induction independent of the oncogenes c-Myc and Klf4. Here we review the molecular pathways that are involved in the functions of HDAC inhibitors on stem cell differentiation and reprogramming of somatic cells into pluripotency. Deciphering the mechanisms of HDAC inhibitor actions is very important to enable their exploitation for efficient and simple tissue regeneration therapies.
The Association between Chronic Arsenic Exposure and Hypertension: A Meta-Analysis
Authors: Abir Tanvir , Rahman Bayzidur , D'Este Catherine , Farooq Abdulaziz , Milton Abul Hasnat
Published: March 2012

Background. There is inconclusive evidence from cross-sectional and cohort studies that arsenic exposure is a risk factor involved in the development of hypertension.Methods. A database search, using several keywords, was conducted to identify relevant studies. Separate odds ratio estimates for arsenic exposure with concentration only and arsenic exposure with duration, including biomarker, were extracted from studies that met all inclusion criteria. The extracted odds ratios (OR) comparing the highest exposure categories with the lowest in each study were pooled using the random effects methods of meta-analysis. Heterogeneity of odds ratios in the included studies were analyzed using I2statistics.Results. Eight studies were analyzed. Using the exposure as arsenic concentration in the drinking water, the OR estimate was 1.9 (95% CI: 1.2–3.0), with the I2= 92%, while using the exposure as concentration and duration, the OR estimate was 1.4 (95% CI: 0.95–2.0) with the I2= 80%. Meta-regression was done and the quality of exposure measurement was found to be significantly associated with the effect measure. For a one unit increase in the score from exposure assessment, the odds ratio decreased by 6%. No publication bias was evident. The only major weaknesses of this study were heterogeneity across studies and small sample size.Conclusions. The study findings provide limited evidence for a relationship between arsenic and hypertension. In summary, the relationship between arsenic exposure and hypertension is still inconclusive and needs further validation through prospective cohort studies.
L(+) and D(-) Lactate Are Increased in Plasma and Urine Samples of Type 2 Diabetes as Measured by a Simultaneous Quantification of L(+) and D(-) Lactate by Reversed-Phase Liquid Chromatography Tandem Mass Spectrometry
Authors: Scheijen Jean L. J. M. , Hanssen Nordin M. J. , Waarenburg Marjo P. H. van de , Jonkers Daisy M. A. E. , Stehouwer Coen D. A. , Schalkwijk Casper G.
Published: March 2012

Background. Plasma and urinary levels of D-lactate have been linked to the presence of diabetes. Previously developed techniques have shown several limitations to further evaluate D-lactate as a biomarker for this condition.Methods. D- and L-lactate were quantified using ultraperformance liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry with labelled internal standard. Samples were derivatized with diacetyl-L-tartaric anhydride and separated on a C18-reversed phase column. D- and L-lactate were analysed in plasma and urine of controls, patients with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), and patients with type 2 diabetes (T2DM).Results. Quantitative analysis of D- and L-lactate was achieved successfully. Calibration curves were linear (r2>0.99) over the physiological and pathophysiological ranges. Recoveries for urine and plasma were between 96% and 113%. Inter- and intra-assay variations were between 2% and 9%. The limits of detection of D-lactate and L-lactate in plasma were 0.7 μmol/L and 0.2 μmol/L, respectively. The limits of detection of D-lactate and L-lactate in urine were 8.1 nmol/mmol creatinine and 4.4 nmol/mmol creatinine, respectively. Plasma and urinary levels of D- and L-lactate were increased in patients with IBD and T2DM as compared with controls.Conclusion. The presented method proved to be suitable for the quantification of D- and L-lactate and opens the possibility to explore the use of D-lactate as a biomarker.
Early Childhood Caries and the Impact of Current U.S. Medicaid Program: An Overview
Authors: Bugis Bussma Ahmed
Published: March 2012

Pediatric dental caries is the most common chronic disease among children. Above 40% of the U.S. children aged 2–11 years have dental caries; more than 50% of them come from low-income families. Under dental services of the Medicaid program, children enrolled in Medicaid must receive preventive dental services. However, only 1/5 of them utilize preventive dental services. The purpose of this overview is to measure the impact of Medicaid dental benefits on reducing oral health disparities among Medicaid-eligible children. This paper explains the importance of preventive dental care, children at high risk of dental caries, Medicaid dental benefits, utilization of dental preventive services by Medicaid-eligible children, dental utilization influencing factors, and outcome evaluation of Medicaid in preventing dental caries among children. In conclusion, despite the recent increase of children enrolled in Medicaid, utilizing preventive dental care is still a real challenge that faces Medicaid.
Synergistic Effect of Nanophotocatalysis and Nonthermal Plasma on the Removal of Indoor HCHO
Authors: Lu Yuanwei , Wang Dinghui , Wu Yuting , Ma Chongfang , Zhang Xingjuan , Yang Chunxin
Published: March 2012

Photocatalysis is an effective method of air purification at the condition of a higher pollutant concentration. However, its wide application in indoor air cleaning is limited due to the low level of indoor air contaminants. Immobilizing the nanosized TiO2particles on the surface of activated carbon filter (TiO2/AC film) could increase the photocatalytic reaction rate as a local high pollutant concentration can be formed on the surface of TiO2by the adsorption of AC. However, the pollutant removal still decreased quickly with the increase in flow velocity, which results in a decrease in air treatment capacity. In order to improve the air treatment capacity by the photocatalytic oxidation (PCO) method, this paper used formaldehyde (HCHO) as a contaminant to study the effect of combination of PCO with nonthermal plasma technology (NTP) on the removal of HCHO. The experimental results show that HCHO removal is more effective with line-to-plate electrode discharge reactor; the HCHO removal and the reaction rate can be enhanced and the amount of air that needs to be cleaned can be improved. Meanwhile, the results show that there is the synergistic effect on the indoor air purification by the combination of PCO with NTP.
A Communication Framework in Multiagent System for Islanded Microgrid
Authors: Kim Hak-Man , Lim Yujin
Published: March 2012

Microgrids are integrated energy systems consisting of interconnected loads and distributed energy sources which as a system can operate in parallel with the grid or in an island mode. By fault occurrence in the connected power system or geographical isolation, microgrids operate in the islanded mode. In the islanded mode, microgrids should be operated to meet a power balance between supply and demand without power trade. In recent years, multiagent systems have been proposed to provide intelligent energy control and management systems in microgrids. In this paper, we design a communication framework to control and operate distributed sources and loads in the islanded microgrids. The framework reliably delivers microgrid control frame between agents by employing wireless mesh network as an advanced topology of the wireless sensor network. From results of experiments, we show that our framework outperforms other conventional one, with respect to the rate of success on the transmission of frames among agents.
Spontaneous EEG-Functional MRI in Mesial Temporal Lobe Epilepsy: Implications for the Neural Correlates of Consciousness
Authors: Wang Zheng , Norton Loretta , Hutchison R. Matthew , Ives John R. , Mirsattari Seyed M.
Published: March 2012

The combination of electroencephalography (EEG) and functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) has been shown to have great potential for providing a greater understanding of normal and diseased states in both human and animal studies. Simultaneous EEG-fMRI is particularly well suited for the study of epilepsy in that it may reveal the neurobiology of ictal and interictal epileptiform discharges and noninvasively localize epileptogenic foci. Spontaneous, coherent fluctuations of neuronal activity and the coupled hemodynamic responses have also been shown to provide diagnostic markers of disease, extending our understanding of intrinsically structured ongoing brain activity. Following a short summary of the hardware and software development of simultaneous EEG-fMRI, this paper reviews a unified framework of integrating neuronal and hemodynamic processes during epileptic seizures and discusses the role and impact of spontaneous activity in the mesial temporal lobe epilepsies with particular emphasis on the neural and physiological correlates of consciousness.
Cathodic Cage Plasma Nitriding: An Innovative Technique
Authors: de Sousa R. R. M. , de Araújo F. O. , da Costa J. A. P. , de S. Brandim A. , de Brito R. A. , Alves C.
Published: March 2012

Cylindrical samples of AISI 1020, AISI 316, and AISI 420 steels, with different heights, were simultaneously treated by a new technique of ionic nitriding, entitled cathodic cage plasma nitriding (CCPN), in order to evaluate the efficiency of this technique to produce nitrided layers with better properties compared with those obtained using conventional ionic nitriding technique. This method is able to eliminate the edge effect in the samples, promoting a better uniformity of temperature, and consequently, a smaller variation of the thickness/height relation can be obtained. The compound layers were characterized by X-ray diffraction, optical microscopy, and microhardness test profile. The results were compared with the properties of samples obtained with the conventional nitriding, for the three steel types. It was verified that samples treated by CCPN process presented, at the same temperature, a better uniformity in the thickness and absence of the edge effect.
Neural Acupuncture Unit: A New Concept for Interpreting Effects and Mechanisms of Acupuncture
Authors: Zhang Zhang-Jin , Wang Xiao-Min , McAlonan Grainne M.
Published: March 2012

When an acupuncture needle is inserted into a designated point on the body and mechanical or electrical stimulation is delivered, various neural and neuroactive components are activated. The collection of the activated neural and neuroactive components distributed in the skin, muscle, and connective tissues surrounding the inserted needle is defined as a neural acupuncture unit (NAU). The traditionally defined acupoints represent an anatomical landmark system that indicates local sites where NAUs may contain relatively dense and concentrated neural and neuroactive components, upon which acupuncture stimulation would elicit a more efficient therapeutic response. The NAU-based local mechanisms of biochemical and biophysical reactions play an important role in acupuncture-induced analgesia. Different properties of NAUs are associated with different components of needling sensation. There exist several central pathways to convey NAU-induced acupuncture signals, Electroacupuncture (EA) frequency-specific neurochemical effects are related to different peripheral and central pathways transmitting afferent signals from different frequency of NAU stimulation. More widespread and intense neuroimaging responses of brain regions to acupuncture may be a consequence of more efficient NAU stimulation modes. The introduction of the conception of NAU provides a new theoretical approach to interpreting effects and mechanisms of acupuncture in modern biomedical knowledge framework.
Stimulation-Dependent Intraspinal Microtubules and Synaptic Failure in Alzheimer's Disease: A Review
Authors: Mitsuyama Fuyuki , Futatsugi Yoshio , Okuya Masato , Kawase Tsukasa , Karagiozov Kostadin , Kato Yoko , Kanno Tetsuo , Sano Hirotoshi , Nagao Shizuko , Koide Tadashi
Published: March 2012

There are many microtubules in axons and dendritic shafts, but it has been thought that there were fewer microtubules in spines. Recently, there have been four reports that observed the intraspinal microtubules. Because microtubules originate from the centrosome, these four reports strongly suggest a stimulation-dependent connection between the nucleus and the stimulated postsynaptic membrane by microtubules. In contrast, several pieces of evidence suggest that spine elongation may be caused by the polymerization of intraspinal microtubules. This structural mechanism for spine elongation suggests, conversely, that the synapse loss or spine loss observed in Alzheimer’s disease may be caused by the depolymerization of intraspinal microtubules. Based on this evidence, it is suggested that the impairment of intraspinal microtubules may cause spinal structural change and block the translocation of plasticity-related molecules between the stimulated postsynaptic membranes and the nucleus, resulting in the cognitive deficits of Alzheimer's disease.
Automatic Human Gait Imitation and Recognition in 3D from Monocular Video with an Uncalibrated Camera
Authors: Yu Tao , Zou Jian-Hua
Published: March 2012

A framework of imitating real human gait in 3D from monocular video of an uncalibrated camera directly and automatically is proposed. It firstly combines polygon‐approximation with deformable template‐matching, using knowledge of human anatomy to achieve the characteristics including static and dynamic parameters of real human gait. Then, these characteristics are processed in regularization and normalization. Finally, they are imposed on a 3D human motion model with prior constrains and universal gait knowledge to realize imitating human gait. In recognition based on this human gait imitation, firstly, the dimensionality of time‐sequences corresponding to motion curves is reduced by NPE. Then, we use the essential features acquired from human gait imitation as input and integrate HCRF with SVM as a whole classifier, realizing identification recognition on human gait. In associated experiment, this imitation framework is robust for the object’s clothes and backpacks to a certain extent. It does not need any manual assist and any camera model information. And it is fitting for straight indoors and the viewing angle for target is between 60° and 120°. In recognition testing, this kind of integrated classifier HCRF/SVM has comparatively higher recognition rate than the sole HCRF, SVM and typical baseline method.
A Low-Complexity Resource Allocation Algorithm for MIMO-OFDMA Multicast Systems with Spectrum-Guarantee Provisioning
Authors: Fraimis Ioannis G. , Kotsopoulos Stavros A.
Published: March 2012

We study the important problem of resource allocation for the downlink of Multiple-Input Multiple output (MIMO) Multicast Wireless Systems operating over frequency-selective channels and we propose a low-complexity but efficient resource allocation algorithm for MIMO-enabled OFDMA systems. The proposed solution guarantees a minimum spectrum share for each user while also takes advantage of the multicast transmission mode. The presence of multiple antennas in both transmitter and receiver offers spatial diversity to the system along with the frequency diversity added by the OFDMA access scheme. The computational complexity is reduced from exponential to linear and validation of the proposed solution is achieved through various simulation scenarios in comparison with other multicast and unicast reference schemes used in MIMO-OFDMA systems. Numerical results and complexity analysis demonstrate the feasibility of the proposed algorithm.
Efficiency of Manual Scanning in Recovering Rare Cellular Events Identified by FluorescenceIn SituHybridization: Simulation of the Detection of Fetal Cells in Maternal Blood
Authors: Emad Ahmed , Ayub Seemi , Samassékou Oumar , Grégoire Marie-Chantal , Gadji Macoura , Ntwari Aimé , Lamoureux Josée , Hemmings Francis , Tafas Triantafyllos , Kilpatrick Michael W. , Krabchi Kada , Drouin Régen
Published: March 2012

Fluorescencein situhybridization (FISH) and manual scanning is a widely used strategy for retrieving rare cellular events such as fetal cells in maternal blood. In order to determine the efficiency of these techniques in detection of rare cells, slides of XX cells with predefined numbers (1–10) of XY cells were prepared. Following FISH hybridization, the slides were scanned blindly for the presence of XY cells by different observers. The average detection efficiency was 84% (125/148). Evaluation of probe hybridization in the missed events showed that 9% (2/23) were not hybridized, 17% (4/23) were poorly hybridized, while the hybridization was adequate for the remaining 74% (17/23). In conclusion, manual scanning is a relatively efficient method to recover rare cellular events, but about 16% of the events are missed; therefore, the number of fetal cells per unit volume of maternal blood has probably been underestimated when using manual scanning.
Gas Nozzle Effect on the Deposition of Polysilicon by Monosilane Siemens Reactor
Authors: Kang Seung Oh , Lee Uk June , Kim Seung Hyun , You Ho Jung , Park Kun , Park Sung Eun , Park Jong Hoon
Published: March 2012

Deposition of polysilicon (poly-Si) was tried to increase productivity of poly-Si by using two different types of gas nozzle in a monosilane Bell-jar Siemens (MS-Siemens) reactor. In a mass production of poly-Si, deposition rate and energy consumption are very important factors because they are main performance indicators of Siemens reactor and they are directly related with the production cost of poly-Si. Type A and B nozzles were used for investigating gas nozzle effect on the deposition of poly-Si in a MS-Siemens reactor. Nozzle design was analyzed by computation cluid dynamics (CFD). Deposition rate and energy consumption of poly-Si were increased when the type B nozzle was used. The highest deposition rate was 1 mm/h, and the lowest energy consumption was72 kWh⋅kg-1in this study.
Drug Target Prediction Based on the Herbs Components: The Study on the Multitargets Pharmacological Mechanism of Qishenkeli Acting on the Coronary Heart Disease
Authors: Wang Yong , Liu Zhongyang , Li Chun , Li Dong , Ouyang Yulin , Yu Junda , Guo Shuzhen , He Fuchu , Wang Wei
Published: March 2012

In this paper, we present a case study of Qishenkeli (QSKL) to research TCM’s underlying molecular mechanism, based on drug target prediction and analyses of TCM chemical components and following experimental validation. First, after determining the compositive compounds of QSKL, we use drugCIPHER-CS to predict their potential drug targets. These potential targets are significantly enriched with known cardiovascular disease-related drug targets. Then we find these potential drug targets are significantly enriched in the biological processes of neuroactive ligand-receptor interaction, aminoacyl-tRNA biosynthesis, calcium signaling pathway, glycine, serine and threonine metabolism, and renin-angiotensin system (RAAS), and so on. Then, animal model of coronary heart disease (CHD) induced by left anterior descending coronary artery ligation is applied to validate predicted pathway. RAAS pathway is selected as an example, and the results show that QSKL has effect on both rennin and angiotensin II receptor (AT1R), which eventually down regulates the angiotensin II (AngII). Bioinformatics combing with experiment verification can provide a credible and objective method to understand the complicated multitargets mechanism for Chinese herbal formula.
The Molecular Biology of Brain Metastasis
Authors: Rahmathulla Gazanfar , Toms Steven A. , Weil Robert J.
Published: March 2012

Metastasis to the central nervous system (CNS) remains a major cause of morbidity and mortality in patients with systemic cancers. Various crucial interactions between the brain environment and tumor cells take place during the development of the cancer at its new location. The rapid expansion in molecular biology and genetics has advanced our knowledge of the underlying mechanisms involved, from invasion to final colonization of new organ tissues. Understanding the various events occurring at each stage should enable targeted drug delivery and individualized treatments for patients, with better outcomes and fewer side effects. This paper summarizes the principal molecular and genetic mechanisms that underlie the development of brain metastasis (BrM).
Assessment of TRACE CCFL Model with SBLOCA Experiment of IIST Facility
Authors: Yang Jung-Hua , Wang Jong-Rong , Lin Hao-Tzu , Shih Chunkuan
Published: March 2012

In this paper, the TRACE model for IIST facility is developed and verified with the Small Break loss of coolant accident (SBLOCA) experiment of IIST (Institute of Nuclear Energy Research Integral System Test) facility. By using the Wallis and Kutateladze correlations of countercurrent flow limitation (CCFL) model, the TRACE analyses results, such as break flow rate, primary pressure, and the temperature of cold-leg and hot-leg, are consistent with the IIST data. The results show the Kutateladze correlation of CCFL model can well predict the SBLOCA behavior and present good agreement with IIST experiment data in this paper. Besides, the sensitivity study results of Kutateladze correlation in CCFL model are verified and compared with the IIST data.
Influence of Mine Tunnel Wall Humidity on Electromagnetic Waves Propagation
Authors: Cheng Lingfei , Zhang Lili , Li Jie
Published: March 2012

High moisture in mine tunnel can cause the change of the permittivity and conductivity of tunnel walls, therefore influence the characteristics of electromagnetic waves propagation. This paper analyzes the mechanism of humidity influencing the permittivity and conductivity and attenuation of electromagnetic waves propagation in the circular tunnel and rectangular tunnel. The study result shows that, in the interest frequency range, the change of permittivity caused by humidity has little effect on propagation attenuation, but the effect on the conductivity change cannot be ignored. When the humidity is greater than a certain value, the attenuation will be increased significantly.
TiO2:(Fe, S) Thin Films Prepared from Complex Precursors by CVD, Physical Chemical Properties, and Photocatalysis
Authors: Bessergenev V. G. , Mateus M. C. , Vasconcelos D. A. , Mariano J. F. M. L. , Botelho do Rego A. M. , Lange R. , Burkel E.
Published: March 2012

The TiO2thin films were prepared using Ti(dpm)2(OPri)2and Ti(OPri)4(dpm = 2,2,6,6-tetramethylheptane-3,5-dione,Pri= isopropyl) as the precursors. The volatile compounds Fe[(C2H5)2NCS2]3and [(CH3)C]2S2were used to prepare doped TiO2films. The synthesis was done in vacuum or in the presence of Ar and O2. The pressure in the CVD chamber was varied between1.2×10−4 mbar and 0.1 mbar, with the system working either in the molecular beam or gas flow regime. Physical, chemical, and photocatalytic properties of the (Fe, S)-doped TiO2films were studied. Those TiO2:(Fe, S) films prepared from the Ti(OPri)4precursor show increased photocatalytic activities, very close to those of Degussa P25 powder in UV region.
Myricetin Increases Hepatic Peroxisome Proliferator-Activated ReceptorαProtein Expression and Decreases Plasma Lipids and Adiposity in Rats
Authors: Chang Chia Ju , Tzeng Thing-Fong , Liou Shorong-Shii , Chang Yuan-Shiun , Liu I-Min
Published: March 2012

The aim of this study was to investigate the antiobesity and antihyperlipidaemic effects of myricetin. Myricetin exhibited a significant concentration-dependent decrease in the intracellular accumulation of triglyceride in 3T3-L1 adipocytes. The high-fat diet (HFD)-fed rats were dosed orally with myricetin or fenofibrate, once daily for eight weeks. Myricetin (300 mg kg−1per day) displayed similar characteristics to fenofibrate (100 mg kg−1per day) in reducing lowered body weight (BW) gain, visceral fat-pad weights and plasma lipid levels of HFD-fed rats. Myricetin also reduced the hepatic triglyceride and cholesterol contents, as well as lowered hepatic lipid droplets accumulation and epididymal adipocyte size in HFD-fed rats. Myricetin and fenofibrate reversed the HFD-induced down-regulation of the hepatic peroxisome proliferator activated receptor (PPAR)α. HFD-induced decreases of the hepatic protein level of acyl-CoA oxidase and cytochrome P450 isoform 4A1 were up-regulated by myricetin and fenofibrate. The elevated expressions of hepatic sterol regulatory element binding proteins (SREBPs) of HFD-fed rats were lowered by myricetin and fenofibrate. These results suggest that myricetin suppressed BW gain and body fat accumulation by increasing the fatty acid oxidation, which was likely mediated via up-regulation of PPARαand down-regulation of SREBP expressions in the liver of HFD-fed rats.
A Novel Centroid Localization for Wireless Sensor Networks
Authors: Liu Yu , Yi Xiao , He You
Published: March 2012

Self-localization of sensor nodes is one of the key issues in wireless sensor networks. Based on the analysis of traditional range-free algorithms such as centroid and APIT (approximate perfect point in triangulation test) schemes, the effect of random deployment of all nodes on node localization is researched. And then, an improved centroid localization algorithm (ICLA) based on APIT and the quality of perpendicular bisector is proposed. In ICLA, nodes are categorized into several kinds and localized, respectively. Extensive simulation results indicate that ICLA obtains a better localization result in random topology networks without any additional hardware. Therefore, ICLA can be an alternate solution for the node self-localization problem in large-scale wireless sensor networks.
The Impact of Various Reactive Oxygen Species on the Formation of Neutrophil Extracellular Traps
Authors: Kirchner Tina , Möller Sonja , Klinger Matthias , Solbach Werner , Laskay Tamás , Behnen Martina
Published: March 2012

The formation of neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs) depends on the generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS). Previous studies revealed that both NADPH oxidase and myeloperoxidase (MPO) are required for NET release. However, the contribution of various ROS as well as the role of mitochondria-derived ROS has not been addressed so far. In the present study we aimed to investigate in a systematic and comprehensive manner the contribution of various ROS and ROS-generating pathways to the PMA-induced NET release. By using specific inhibitors, the role of both NADPH oxidase- and mitochondria-derived ROS as well as the contribution of superoxide dismutase (SOD) and MPO on the NET release was assessed. We could demonstrate that NADPH oxidase function is crucial for the formation of NETs. In addition, we could clearly show the involvement of MPO-derived ROS in NET release. Our results, however, did not provide evidence for the role of SOD- or mitochondria-derived ROS in NET formation.
Simple Methods to Approximate CPC Shape to Preserve Collection Efficiency
Authors: Jafrancesco David , Sani Elisa , Fontani Daniela , Mercatelli Luca , Sansoni Paola , Giannini Annalisa , Francini Franco
Published: March 2012

The compound parabolic concentrator (CPC) is the most efficient reflective geometry to collect light to an exit port. Anyway, to allow its actual use in solar plants or photovoltaic concentration systems, a tradeoff between system efficiency and cost reduction, the two key issues for sunlight exploitation, must be found. In this work, we analyze various methods to model an approximated CPC aimed to be simpler and more cost-effective than the ideal one, as well as to preserve the system efficiency. The manufacturing easiness arises from the use of truncated conic surfaces only, which can be realized by cheap machining techniques. We compare different configurations on the basis of their collection efficiency, evaluated by means of nonsequential ray-tracing software. Moreover, due to the fact that some configurations are beam dependent and for a closer approximation of a real case, the input beam is simulated as nonsymmetric, with a nonconstant irradiance on the CPC internal surface.
Response of Maize (Zea maysL.) to Different Rates of Palm Bunch Ash Application in the Semi-deciduous Forest Agro-ecological Zone of Ghana
Authors: Adjei-Nsiah S.
Published: March 2012

The effects of palm bunch ash (PBA) and mineral fertilizer application on grain yield and nutrient uptake in maize and soil chemical properties were studied in both the major and minor rainy seasons in the semi-deciduous forest agro-ecological zone of Ghana. In both the major and minor rainy seasons, the response of maize to four levels (0, 2, 4, and 6 tons per hectare) of palm bunch ash and 200 kg per hectare of NPK (15-15-15) application was evaluated using randomised complete block design. Results of the study showed that application of palm bunch ash significantly (P<0.05) increased soil pH, soil phosphorus, and exchangeable cations. Maize grain yield varied significantly (P<0.05) among the different treatments in both the major and minor rainy seasons. The highest maize grain yield of 4530 and 6120 kg ha-1was obtained at PBA application rate of 2 tonsha-1for the major and minor rainy seasons, respectively.
Divergent Selection and Then What Not: The Conundrum of Missing Reproductive Isolation in Misty Lake and Stream Stickleback
Authors: Räsänen Katja , Delcourt Matthieu , Chapman Lauren J. , Hendry Andrew P.
Published: March 2012

In ecological speciation, reproductive isolation evolves as a consequence of adaptation to different selective environments. A frequent contributor to this process is the evolution of positive assortative mate choice between ecotypes. We tested this expectation for lake and inlet stream threespine stickleback (Gasterosteus aculeatus) from the Misty system (Vancouver Island, Canada), which show strong genetically based adaptive divergence and little genetic exchange in nature. This, and work on other stickleback systems, led us to expect positive assortative mating. Yet, our standard “no-choice” laboratory experiment on common-garden fish revealed no evidence for this—despite divergence in traits typically mediating assortative mating in stickleback. These results remind us that divergent natural selection may not inevitably lead to the evolution of positive assortative mate choice. The apparent lack of strong and symmetric reproductive barriers in this system presents a conundrum: why are such barriers not evident despite strong adaptive divergence and low gene flow in nature?
Some Nonlinear Vortex Solutions
Authors: Haslam Michael C. , Smith Christopher J. , Alobaidi Ghada , Mallier Roland
Published: March 2012

We consider the steady-state two-dimensional motion of an inviscid incompressible fluid which obeys a nonlinear Poisson equation. By seeking solutions of a specific form, we arrive at some interesting new nonlinear vortex solutions.
Comparative Evaluation of Permissiveness to Dengue Virus Serotype 2 Infection in Primary Rodent Macrophages
Authors: Prada-Arismendy Jeanette , Rincón Verónica , Castellanos Jaime E.
Published: March 2012

Infection with dengue virus presents a broad clinical spectrum, which can range from asymptomatic cases to severe cases that are characterised by haemorrhagic syndrome and/or shock. The reason for such variability remains unknown. This work evaluated thein vitropermissiveness of mouse, rat, hamster and guinea pig macrophages to infection by dengue virus 2 (DENV2). The results established that macrophages derived from the BALB/c mouse strain showed higher permissiveness to DENV2 infection than macrophages from other rodent species, although all rodent species studied had the C820T mutation in the oligoadenylate synthetase 1b gene, indicating no relationship to the differentin vitrosusceptibilities of mouse cells at this locus. Other molecular mechanisms related to flavivirus susceptibility remain to be explored.
Measuring Thickness of Middle Ear Mucosa Using MRI and CT Imaging versus Histopathology
Authors: Nyc Mary Ann , Kim Sang Gyoon , Kapoor Anil , Jung Timothy
Published: March 2012

Objective. Otitis media (OM) is characterized by increased middle ear effusion and inflammation of middle ear tissue. In this study, we compared two radiographic methods of analyzing inflammation by measuring mucosal thickness (MT).Methods. 28 chinchillas were divided into three treatment groups consisting of a vehicle control group and two glucocorticoid groups. 6 underwent treatment by vehicle control, 10 were treated with ciprofloxacin 0.3%/dexamethasone 0.1% (DEX), and 10 received ciprofloxacin 0.2%/hydrocortisone 1% (HC). 96 hrs post-LPS inoculation, chinchillas were euthanized and their temporal bones were removed for analyses.Results. MRI scans (F=146.0861,P-value <0.0001) and histology (χ2=40.5267,P-value <0.0001) revealed statistically significant differences in MT measurements among treatment groups, whereas CT imaging did not. DEX-treated chinchillas exhibited overall significantly smaller MT values.Conclusion. Imaging MT was effective for determining severity of inflammation due to OM. Previous gold standard methods using histopathology compromise tissue integrity by chemical manipulation and dehydration effects. MRI and CT scanning are viable tools to preserve tissue and examine changes in MT. In this study, MRI provided more information about internal, soft tissue structures. In a clinical setting, MRI could be used for diagnosing and tracking severe or chronic OM.
Dynamic Crack Propagation Problems of Fibre-Reinforced Concrete
Authors: Cheng Y. H. , Chun Lu Nian , Xin-gang Li
Published: March 2012

Applying the built dynamic crack model of fibre concrete, bridging fiber segment is substituted by loads. When a crack propagates its fiber continues to break. By the approaches of the theory of complex functions, the problems dealt with can be translated into Riemann-Hilbert problems. Analytical solutions of the displacements, stresses, and dynamic stress intensity factors under the action of of moving variable loads and , respectively, are attained by the ways of self-similar measures. After those analytical solutions are utilized by superposition theorem, the solutions of arbitrary complex problems can be obtained.