bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
SPAK-mediated NCC regulation in response to low-K+ diet
Authors: Wade James B. , Liu Jie , Coleman Richard , Grimm P. Richard , Delpire Eric , Welling Paul A.
Published: January 2015

The NaCl cotransporter (NCC) of the renal distal convoluted tubule is stimulated by low-K+ diet by an unknown mechanism. Since recent work has shown that the STE20/SPS-1-related proline-alanine-rich protein kinase (SPAK) can function to stimulate NCC by phosphorylation of specific N-terminal sites, we investigated whether the NCC response to low-K+ diet is mediated by SPAK. Using phospho-specific antibodies in Western blot and immunolocalization studies of wild-type and SPAK knockout (SPAK−/−) mice fed a low-K+ or control diet for 4 days, we found that low-K+ diet strongly increased total NCC expression and phosphorylation of NCC. This was associated with an increase in total SPAK expression in cortical homogenates and an increase in phosphorylation of SPAK at the S383 activation site. The increased pNCC in response to low-K+ diet was blunted but not completely inhibited in SPAK−/− mice. These findings reveal that SPAK is an important mediator of the increased NCC activation by phosphorylation that occurs in the distal convoluted tubule in response to a low-K+ diet, but other low-potassium-activated kinases are likely to be involved.
Hyperuricemia-induced NLRP3 activation of macrophages contributes to the progression of diabetic nephropathy
Authors: Kim Su-Mi , Lee Sang-Ho , Kim Yang-Gyun , Kim Se-Yun , Seo Jung-Woo , Choi Young-Wook , Kim Dong-Jin , Jeong Kyung-Hwan , Lee Tae-Won , Ihm Chun-Gyoo , Won Kyu-Yeoun , Moon Ju-Young
Published: January 2015

IL-1β-secreting nucleotide-binding oligomerization domain protein 3 (NLRP3) inflammasomes play a pivotal role in triggering innate immune responses in metabolic disease. We investigated the role of soluble uric acid in NLRP3 inflammasome activation in macrophages to demonstrate the effect of systemic hyperuricemia on progressive kidney damage in type 2 diabetes. THP-1 cells, human acute monocytic leukemia cells, were cultured to obtain macrophages, and HK-2 cells, human renal proximal tubule cells, were cultured and stimulated with uric acid. In vivo, we designed four rat groups as follows: 1) Long-Evans Tokushima Otsuka (LETO); 2) Otsuka Long-Evans Tokushima Fatty (OLETF); 3) OLETF+high-fructose diet (HFD) for 16 wk; and 4) OLETF+HFD+allopurinol (10 mg/dl administered in the drinking water). Soluble uric acid stimulated NLRP3 inflammasomes to produce IL-1β in macrophages. Uric acid-induced MitoSOX mediates NLRP3 activation and IL-1β secretion. IL-1β from macrophages activates NF-κB in cocultured proximal tubular cells. In vivo, intrarenal IL-1β expression and macrophage infiltration increased in HFD-fed OLETF rats. Lowering the serum uric acid level resulted in improving the albuminuria, tubular injury, macrophage infiltration, and renal IL-1β (60% of HFD-fed OLETF) independently of glycemic control. Direct activation of proximal tubular cells by uric acid resulted in (C-X-C motif) ligand 12 and high mobility group box-1 release and accelerated macrophage recruitment and the M1 phenotype. Taken together, these data support direct roles of hyperuricemia in activating NLRP3 inflammasomes in macrophages, promoting chemokine signaling in the proximal tubule and contributing to the progression of diabetic nephropathy through cross talk between macrophages and proximal tubular cells.
High-speed dynamic-clamp interface
Authors: Yang Yang , Adowski Timothy , Ramamurthy Bina , Neef Andreas , Xu-Friedman Matthew A.
Published: January 2015

The dynamic-clamp technique is highly useful for mimicking synaptic or voltage-gated conductances. However, its use remains rare in part because there are few systems, and they can be expensive and difficult for less-experienced programmers to implement. Furthermore, some conductances (such as sodium channels) can be quite rapid or may have complex voltage sensitivity, so high speeds are necessary. To address these issues, we have developed a new interface that uses a common personal computer platform with National Instruments data acquisition and WaveMetrics IGOR to provide a simple user interface. This dynamic clamp implements leak and linear synaptic conductances as well as a voltage-dependent synaptic conductance and kinetic channel conductances based on Hodgkin-Huxley or Markov models. The speed of the system can be assayed using a testing mode, and currently speeds of >100 kHz (10 μs per cycle) are achievable with short latency and little jitter.
Improving motor performance without training: the effect of combining mirror visual feedback with transcranial direct current stimulation
Authors: von Rein Erik , Hoff Maike , Kaminski Elisabeth , Sehm Bernhard , Steele Christopher J. , Villringer Arno , Ragert Patrick
Published: January 2015

Mirror visual feedback (MVF) during motor training has been shown to improve motor performance of the untrained hand. Here we thought to determine if MVF-induced performance improvements of the left hand can be augmented by upregulating plasticity in right primary motor cortex (M1) by means of anodal transcranial direct current stimulation (a-tDCS) while subjects trained with the right hand. Participants performed a ball-rotation task with either their left (untrained) or right (trained) hand on two consecutive days ( days 1 and 2). During training with the right hand, MVF was provided concurrent with two tDCS conditions: group 1 received a-tDCS over right M1 ( n = 10), whereas group 2 received sham tDCS (s-tDCS, n = 10). On day 2, performance was reevaluated under the same experimental conditions compared with day 1 but without tDCS. While baseline performance of the left hand ( day 1) was not different between groups, a-tDCS exhibited stronger MVF-induced performance improvements compared with s-tDCS. Similar results were observed for day 2 (without tDCS application). A control experiment ( n = 8) with a-tDCS over right M1 as outlined above but without MVF revealed that left hand improvement was significantly less pronounced than that induced by combined a-tDCS and MVF. Based on these results, we provide novel evidence that upregulating activity in the untrained M1 by means of a-tDCS is capable of augmenting MVF-induced performance improvements in young normal volunteers. Our findings suggest that concurrent MVF and tDCS might have synergistic and additive effects on motor performance of the untrained hand, a result of relevance for clinical approaches in neurorehabilitation and/or exercise science.
Properties of the primary somatosensory cortex projection to the primary motor cortex in the mouse
Authors: Petrof Iraklis , Viaene Angela N. , Sherman S. Murray
Published: January 2015

The primary somatosensory (S1) and primary motor (M1) cortices are reciprocally connected, and their interaction has long been hypothesized to contribute to coordinated motor output. Very little is known, however, about the nature and synaptic properties of the S1 input to M1. Here we wanted to take advantage of a previously developed sensorimotor slice preparation that preserves much of the S1-to-M1 connectivity (Rocco MM, Brumberg JC. J Neurosci Methods 162: 139–147, 2007), as well as available optogenetic methodologies, in order to investigate the synaptic profile of this projection. Our data show that S1 input to pyramidal cells of M1 is highly homogeneous, possesses many features of a “driver” pathway, such as paired-pulse depression and lack of metabotropic glutamate receptor activation, and is mediated through axons that terminate in both small and large synaptic boutons. Our data suggest that S1 provides M1 with afferents that possess synaptic and anatomical characteristics ideal for the delivery of strong inputs that can “drive” postsynaptic M1 cells, thereby potentially affecting their output.
Performing a reaching task with one arm while adapting to a visuomotor rotation with the other can lead to complete transfer of motor learning across the arms
Authors: Wang Jinsung , Lei Yuming , Binder Jeffrey R.
Published: January 2015

The extent to which motor learning is generalized across the limbs is typically very limited. Here, we investigated how two motor learning hypotheses could be used to enhance the extent of interlimb transfer. According to one hypothesis, we predicted that reinforcement of successful actions by providing binary error feedback regarding task success or failure, in addition to terminal error feedback, during initial training would increase the extent of interlimb transfer following visuomotor adaptation ( experiment 1). According to the other hypothesis, we predicted that performing a reaching task repeatedly with one arm without providing performance feedback (which prevented learning the task with this arm), while concurrently adapting to a visuomotor rotation with the other arm, would increase the extent of transfer ( experiment 2). Results indicate that providing binary error feedback, compared with continuous visual feedback that provided movement direction and amplitude information, had no influence on the extent of transfer. In contrast, repeatedly performing (but not learning) a specific task with one arm while visuomotor adaptation occurred with the other arm led to nearly complete transfer. This suggests that the absence of motor instances associated with specific effectors and task conditions is the major reason for limited interlimb transfer and that reinforcement of successful actions during initial training is not beneficial for interlimb transfer. These findings indicate crucial contributions of effector- and task-specific motor instances, which are thought to underlie (a type of) model-free learning, to optimal motor learning and interlimb transfer.
α- And β-subunit composition of voltage-gated sodium channels investigated with μ-conotoxins and the recently discovered μO§-conotoxin GVIIJ
Authors: Wilson Michael J. , Zhang Min-Min , Gajewiak Joanna , Azam Layla , Rivier Jean E. , Olivera Baldomero M. , Yoshikami Doju
Published: January 2015

We investigated the identities of the isoforms of the α (NaV1)- and β (NaVβ)-subunits of voltage-gated sodium channels, including those responsible for action potentials in rodent sciatic nerves. To examine α-subunits, we used seven μ-conotoxins, which target site 1 of the channel. With the use of exogenously expressed channels, we show that two of the μ-conotoxins, μ-BuIIIB and μ-SxIIIA, are 50-fold more potent in blocking NaV1.6 from mouse than that from rat. Furthermore, we observed that μ-BuIIIB and μ-SxIIIA are potent blockers of large, myelinated A-fiber compound action potentials (A-CAPs) [but not small, unmyelinated C-fiber CAPs (C-CAPs)] in the sciatic nerve of the mouse (unlike A-CAPs of the rat, previously shown to be insensitive to these toxins). To investigate β-subunits, we used two synthetic derivatives of the recently discovered μO§-conotoxin GVIIJ that define site 8 of the channel, as previously characterized with cloned rat NaV1- and NaVβ-subunits expressed in Xenopus laevis oocytes, where it was shown that μO§-GVIIJ is a potent inhibitor of several NaV1-isoforms and that coexpression of NaVβ2 or -β4 (but not NaVβ1 or -β3) totally protects against block by μO§-GVIIJ. We report here the effects of μO§-GVIIJ on 1) sodium currents of mouse NaV1.6 coexpressed with various combinations of NaVβ-subunits in oocytes; 2) A- and C-CAPs of mouse and rat sciatic nerves; and 3) sodium currents of small and large neurons dissociated from rat dorsal root ganglia. Our overall results lead us to conclude that action potentials in A-fibers of the rodent sciatic nerve are mediated primarily by NaV1.6 associated with NaVβ2 or NaVβ4.
The Resin fromProtium heptaphyllumPrevents High-Fat Diet-Induced Obesity in Mice: Scientific Evidence and Potential Mechanisms
Authors: Carvalho Karine Maria Martins Bezerra , Marinho Filho José Delano Barreto , de Melo Tiago Sousa , Araújo Ana Jérsia , Quetz Josiane da Silva , da Cunha Maria do Perpétuo Socorro Saldanha , de Melo Karina Moura , da Silva Armenio Andre de Carvalho Almeida , Tomé Adriana Rocha , Havt Alexandre , Fonseca Said Gonçalves da Cruz , Brito Gerly Anne de Castro , Chaves Mariana Helena , Rao Vietla Satyanarayana , Santos Flávia Almeida
Published: January 2015

Herbal compounds rich in triterpenes are well known to regulate glucose and lipid metabolism and to have beneficial effects on metabolic disorders. The present study investigated the antiobesity properties of resin fromProtium heptaphyllum(RPH) and the possible mechanisms in mice fed a high-fat diet (HFD) for 15 weeks. Mice treated with RPH showed decreases in body weight, net energy intake, abdominal fat accumulation, plasma glucose, amylase, lipase, triglycerides, and total cholesterol relative to their respective controls, which were RPH unfed. Additionally, RPH treatment, while significantly elevating the plasma level of ghrelin hormone, decreased the levels of insulin, leptin, and resistin. Besides, HFD-induced increases in plasma levels of proinflammatory mediators TNF-α, IL-6, and MCP-1 were significantly lowered by RPH. Furthermore,in vitrostudies revealed that RPH could significantly inhibit the lipid accumulation in 3T3-L1 adipocytes (measured by Oil-Red O staining) at concentrations up to 50 μg/mL. These findings suggest that the antiobese potential of RPH is largely due to its modulatory effects on various hormonal and enzymatic secretions related to fat and carbohydrate metabolism and to the regulation of obesity-associated inflammation.
Ultrasensitive NO2Gas Sensor Based on Epitaxial Graphene
Authors: Novikov S. , Lebedeva N. , Satrapinski A.
Published: January 2015

We report about technology of fabrication and optimization of a gas sensor based on epitaxial graphene. Optimized graphene/metal contact configuration exhibited low contact resistance. Complementary annealing of graphene sensor after each gas exposure led to significant improvement in the sensing performance. The response of the annealed sensor to the nitrogen dioxide (NO2) was tenfold higher than that of an as-fabricated graphene sensor. NO2concentration as low as 0.2 parts per billion (ppb) was easily detectable. Devices have high signal-to-noise ratio. The detection limit of the graphene sensor was estimated to be 0.6 ppt (parts per trillion). The present technology with additional annealing improves the performance of the graphene based sensor and makes it suitable for the environmental nitrogen dioxide gas monitoring.
Luminescence Properties of CaF2 Nanostructure Activated by Different Elements
Authors: Salah Numan , Alharbi Najlaa D. , Habib Sami S. , Lochab S. P.
Published: January 2015

Nanostructures of calcium fluoride (CaF2) doped with Eu, Tb, Dy, Cu, and Ag were synthesized by the coprecipitation method and studied for their thermoluminescence (TL) and photoluminescence (PL) properties. The PL emission spectrum of pure CaF2 nanostructure has a broad band in the 370–550 nm range. Similar spectra were observed in case of doped samples, beside extra bands related to these impurities. The maximum PL intensity was observed in Eu doped sample. The TL results of Eu, Cu, Ag, and Tb doped samples show weak glow peaks below 125°C, whereas Dy doped one is found to be highly sensitive with a prominent peak at 165°C. This sample was further exposed to a wide range of gamma rays exposures from 137Cs source. The response curve is linear in the 100 Gy‐10 kGy range. It is also observed that the particle size of CaF2 nanostructure was significantly reduced by increasing Dy concentration. These results showed that Dy is a proper activator in the host of CaF2 nanostructure, providing a highly sensitive dosimeter in a wide range of exposures and also plays a role as a controlling agent for particle size growth.
Transforming Growth Factor Beta Family: Insight into the Role of Growth Factors in Regulation of Fracture Healing Biology and Potential Clinical Applications
Authors: Poniatowski Łukasz A. , Wojdasiewicz Piotr , Gasik Robert , Szukiewicz Dariusz
Published: January 2015

The transforming growth factor beta (TGF‐β) family forms a group of three isoforms, TGF‐β1, TGF‐β2, and TGF‐β3, with their structure formed by interrelated dimeric polypeptide chains. Pleiotropic and redundant functions of the TGF‐β family concern control of numerous aspects and effects of cell functions, including proliferation, differentiation, and migration, in all tissues of the human body. Amongst many cytokines and growth factors, the TGF‐β family is considered a group playing one of numerous key roles in control of physiological phenomena concerning maintenance of metabolic homeostasis in the bone tissue. By breaking the continuity of bone tissue, a spread‐over‐time and complex bone healing process is initiated, considered a recapitulation of embryonic intracartilaginous ossification. This process is a cascade of local and systemic phenomena spread over time, involving whole cell lineages and various cytokines and growth factors. Numerous in vivo and in vitro studies in various models analysing cytokines and growth factors’ involvement have shown that TGF‐β has a leading role in the fracture healing process. This paper sums up current knowledge on the basis of available literature concerning the role of the TGF‐β family in the fracture healing process.
Energy Efficient and High Capacity Tradeoff in Distributed Antenna System for a Green Cellular Network
Authors: Behjati Mehran , Alsharif Mohammed H. , Nordin Rosdiadee , Ismail Mahamod
Published: January 2015

Two main concerns for designing a wireless system are more network capacity and less energy consumption. Recently, distributed antenna system (DAS) has received considerable attention due to its potential to provide higher spectral efficiency (SE) and uniform coverage for cellular networks. In this regard, this paper compares the performance of DAS with centralized antenna system (CAS) in LTE-A system in terms of energy efficiency (EE), where practical restrictions such as out-of-cell interference, path loss, and small scale fading are taken into account. Furthermore, the EE and system power consumption are investigated under three different cell-load scenarios (high, moderate, and low load) where different numbers of antennas are activated and remaining of antennas are under sleep mode. Finally, based on the tradeoff between power-saving and EE, two optimal DAS antenna deployments are proposed for low and moderate cell-load scenarios. The results reveal that DAS considerably outperforms CAS in terms of EE and by optimal deploying antennas of DAS significant power-saving and EE are achievable. The proposed methodology achieved savings of up to 27.63% in terms of energy savings in a macrocell with guarantee of a high capacity of data.
Optimization of Bromelain Treatment pH with Wool for Antifelting and Reduced Pilling Behaviour: Objective Assessment Approach
Authors: Kaur Amandeep , Chakraborty J. N.
Published: January 2015

Wool fabric possesses unique properties like resiliency, warmth, wide aesthetic qualities, and comfort. However, felting-shrinkage and pilling tendency of wool after wear and repeated launderings are its inherent limitations. Proteolytic enzymes are extensively used as biocatalysts for eco-friendly wool antifelting treatments. However, uncontrolled wool protein hydrolysis by protease may lead to excessive weight loss leading to weakening of fiber and reduction in its tensile value, which further have detrimental effect on the pilling propensity of protease treated wool during use of woolen textiles. Optimum selection of protease treatment parameters like concentration, pH, temperature, and so forth can help in controlled reaction to achieve the desired effect, which generally involves cumbersome sampling and analysis. Optimization for pH of bromelain (proteolytic enzyme having activity in acidic conditions) treatment with wool has been done while aiming at the desired areawise shrinkage value, minimum weight loss, and reduced pilling by using standard methods and objective fast Fourier transformation technique for pilling evaluation specifically.
Pregnancy after Uterine Artery Embolization: A Case Report in a Woman with Leiomyomata
Authors: Lopes Helena Isabel , Sá Maria Isabel , Rodrigues Rosa Maria
Published: January 2015

Background. Several pregnancies have been reported after embolization of uterine artery. This procedure is an accepted nonsurgical treatment for symptomatic uterine fibroids but its safety in women desiring future childbearing is not well established.Case Report. We present a 40-year-old woman with leiomyomata who became pregnant after previously undergone uterine artery embolization for three times. The placenta was previa and the fetus was in transverse position. She had a cesarean delivery of an appropriately grown fetus at 37 weeks, which was followed by uterine atony requiring hysterectomy.Conclusion. Although pregnancy-related outcomes remain understudied, the available reports evidence that pregnancies after uterine artery embolization may be at significantly increased risk for postpartum hemorrhage, cesarean delivery, abnormal placentation, and malpresentation. In patients who are undergoing this type of treatment and contemplating pregnancy, the possibility of adverse complications should be taken in consideration and women should be appropriately advised.
Mechanochemical Preparation of Cobalt Nanoparticles through a Novel Intramolecular Reaction in Cobalt(II) Complexes
Authors: Kahani Seyed Abolghasem , Khedmati Massumeh
Published: January 2015

A novel solid state reaction involving a series of cobalt(II) hydrazine‐azides has been used to prepare metallic cobalt nanoparticles. The reactions of [Co(N2H4)(N3)2], [Co(N2H4)2(N3)2], and [Co(N2H4)(N3)Cl]·H2O via NaOH, KOH as reactants were carried out in the solid state. These complexes undergo an intramolecular two‐electron oxidation‐reduction reaction at room temperature, producing metallic cobalt nanoparticles (Co1–Co6). The aforementioned complexes contain cobalt(II) that is an oxidizing agent and also hydrazine ligand as a reducing agent. Other products produced include sodium azide and ammonia gas. The cobalt metal nanoparticles were characterized using X‐ray powder diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and vibrating sample magnetometer (VSM). The synthesized cobalt nanoparticles have similar morphologies; however, their particle size distributions are different.
A Printed Monopole Antenna for Triple-Band WLAN/WiMAX Applications
Authors: Zhai Huiqing , Liu Lu , Ma Zhihui , Liang Changhong
Published: January 2015

A new compact design of monopole antenna for triple-band WLAN/WiMAX applications with two band-notches based on broadband antenna is presented. By introducing a stub loaded ground and two new paper clip structures etched on radiation patch, a compact overall dimension 31 mm×33 mm×1 mm and three separated operating bands effectively covering 2.4/5.2/5.8 GHz WLAN bands and 2.5/3.5/5.5 GHz WiMAX bands can be achieved. Compared with familiar U type slot, the introduced compact paper clip structure can save about 37% of dimension regions, which could effectively improve efficiency of band-notch formation. Simulated and measured results demonstrate that the proposed antenna has good dipole-like radiation characteristics with appreciable gain across the operating bands. Besides, main parameters of the two etched paper clip structures are investigated to control the positions and bandwidths of the two stop-bands, respectively, on basis of which the three working bands can be adjusted independently.
Is DBM Beneficial for the Enhancement of Bony Consolidation in Distraction Osteogenesis? A Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Song Sang-Heon , Kim Sang-Gyun , Kim Sung-Eun , Song Hae-Ryong
Published: January 2015

The aim of the present study was to compare the radiographic and clinical outcomes of DBM injection and conventional treatment during tibial lengthening over an intramedullary nail in adult patients with short stature. Twenty-nine patients were randomized to receive DBM injection (n=14) or conventional treatment without any injection (n=15) and evaluated. The outcome was measured on the basis of the pixel value ratio (PVR) in the digital radiographs during the consolidation period; healing index; clinical assessment; and the rate of complications. In the DBM group, the mean PVR of 1 (mineral density of the callus is comparable to the adjacent bone) was reached by 40 weeks in anterior and medial cortices which was significantly different than that in the control group (P=0.03for anterior cortex;P=0.04for medial cortex). The average healing index in the DBM group was 39.8 ± 5.3 days/cm compared to 44.3 ± 5.8 days/cm in the control group (P=0.05). There were no significant differences in clinical outcomes (P=0.23) and functional status (P=0.47) including complications (P=0.72) between two groups. In this randomized clinical trial, injection of DBM at the time of initial operation enhanced consolidation of regenerate callus without interfering with clinical outcomes compared to that with conventional treatment.
Study of the Synergistic Effect of Nanoporous Nickel Phosphates on Novel Intumescent Flame Retardant Polypropylene Composites
Authors: Nie Shibin , Zhang Chi , Peng Chao , Wang De-yi , Ding Daowei , He Qingliang
Published: January 2015

A char forming agent (CFA) and silica-gel microencapsulated ammonium polyphosphate (Si-MCAPP) were selected to form novel intumescent flame retardant system to prepare flame retardant polypropylene (PP) composites, and then the influences of nanoporous nickel phosphates (NiP) on the thermal and flame retardant properties of flame retardant PP composites were studied by the real time FTIR (RTFTIR) spectra, limited oxygen index (LOI) test, and the scanning electron microscopy. RTFTIR shows the addition of NiP can improve the thermal stability of flame retardant PP composites. LOI test shows LOI value is increased with the increase of the content of NiP, and the optimized concentration of NiP is 1.0%. Furthermore, smoke toxicity of the novel flame retardant PP composites was studied by mice experiment. The upper limit of the no death smoke concentration of the composite is 12.37 mg/L.
Circulating MicroRNAs as Clinical Biomarkers in the Predictions of Pregnancy Complications
Authors: Tsochandaridis Marthe , Nasca Laurent , Toga Caroline , Levy-Mozziconacci Annie
Published: January 2015

Predicting pregnancy complications is a major topic for clinicians and biologists for maternal and fetal monitoring. Noninvasive biomarkers in maternal blood such as circulating microRNAs (miRNAs) are promising molecules to predict pregnancy disorders. miRNAs are noncoding short RNAs that regulate mRNA expression by repressing the translation or cleaving the transcript. miRNAs are released to the extracellular systemic circulation via exosomes. The discovery of plasma- or serum-derived miRNAs and of free-circulating exosomes that contain miRNAs provides useful information about the physiological or pathophysiological roles of the miRNAs. Specific placental miRNAs are present in maternal plasma in different ways depending on whether the pregnancy is normal or pathological or if there is no pregnancy. This paper focuses on placental miRNAs and extracellular miRNAs to the placenta whose misregulation could lead to pregnancy complications.
Smart Tendon Actuated Flexible Actuator
Authors: Billah Md. Masum , Khan Raisuddin
Published: January 2015

We investigate the kinematic feasibility of a tendon-based flexible parallel platform actuator. Much of the research on tendon-driven Stewart platforms is devoted either to the completely restrained positioning mechanism (CRPM) or to one particular type of the incompletely restrained positioning mechanism (IRPM) where the external force is provided by the gravitational pull on the platform such as in cable-suspended Stewart platforms. An IRPM-based platform is proposed which uses the external force provided by a compliant member. The compliant central column allows the configuration to achievenDOFs withntendons. In particular, this investigation focuses on the angular deflection of the upper platform with respect to the lower platform. The application here is aimed at developing a linkable module that can be connected to one another so as to form a “snake robot” of sorts. Since locomotion takes precedence over positioning in this application, a 3-DOF Stewart platform is adopted. For an arbitrary angular displace of the end-effector, the corresponding length of each tendon can be determined through inverse kinematics. Mathematical singularities are investigated using the traditional analytical method of defining the Jacobian.
A Novel Approach to Solve Quasiexactly Solvable Pauli Equation
Authors: Koç Ramazan , Olğar Eser , Mutaf Haydar
Published: January 2015

The spectra for some specific forms of external magnetic fields in Pauli equation are obtained in the framework of the asymptotic iteration method (AIM). AIM is applied to find the solution of Pauli equation. When the method is applied to quasiexactly solvable systems, it not only easily gives the corresponding spectrum, but also produces accurate results for the eigenvalues of the system havingsl(2) symmetry.
Sensitivity of Mesoporous CoSb2O6 Nanoparticles to Gaseous CO and C3H8 at Low Temperatures
Authors: Guillén-Bonilla Héctor , Gildo-Ortiz Lorenzo , Olvera-Amador M. de la L. , Santoyo-Salazar Jaime , Rodríguez-Betancourtt Verónica M. , Guillen-Bonilla Alex , Reyes-Gómez Juan
Published: January 2015

Mesoporous CoSb2O6 nanoparticles, synthesized through a nonaqueous method (using cobalt nitrate, antimony trichloride, ethylenediamine, and ethanol as a solvent), were tested to establish their sensitivity to CO and C3H8 atmospheres at relatively low temperatures. The precursor material was dried at 200°C and calcined at 600°C. X‐ray diffraction and scanning electron microscopy were employed to verify the existence of crystal phases (P42/mnm) and the morphology of this trirutile‐type CoSb2O6 oxide. Pyramidal and cubic shaped crystals (average size: 41.1 nm), embedded in the material’s surface, were identified. Mesopores (average size: 6.5 nm) on the nanoparticles’ surface were observed by means of transmission electron microscopy. The best sensitivity of the CoSb2O6 in a CO atmosphere was at the relatively low temperatures of 250 and 350°C, whereas, in a C3H8 atmosphere, the sensitivity increased uniformly with temperature. These results encourage using the CoSb2O6 nanoparticles as gas sensors.
Successful Stent Graft Insertion for Endovascular Aneurysm Repair and Closure of Patent Ductus Arteriosus in an Adult Patient
Authors: Kuno Toshiki , Tsutsumi Koji , Numasawa Yohei
Published: January 2015

Patent ductus arteriosus (PDA) is sometimes undetected until adulthood, and surgical closure of a PDA is dangerous because of the calcification of the ductus. Percutaneous approaches such as coil embolization and use of a PDA occluder are less invasive; however, these devices are not suitable for PDA with thoracic aortic aneurysm (TAA). We present the case of a 72-year-old female patient who underwent successful stent graft insertions for PDA with TAA.
Regular Bulk Solutions in Brane-Worlds with Inhomogeneous Dust and Generalized Dark Radiation
Authors: Herrera-Aguilar A. , Kuerten A. M. , da Rocha Roldão
Published: January 2015

From the dynamics of a brane-world with matter fields present in the bulk, the bulk metric and the black string solution near the brane are generalized, when both the dynamics of inhomogeneous dust/generalized dark radiation on the brane-world and inhomogeneous dark radiation in the bulk as well are considered as exact dynamical collapse solutions. Based on the analysis on the inhomogeneous static exterior of a collapsing sphere of homogeneous dark radiation on the brane, the associated black string warped horizon is studied, as well as the 5D bulk metric near the brane. Moreover, the black string and the bulk are shown to be more regular upon time evolution, for suitable values for the dark radiation parameter in the model, by analyzing the soft physical singularities.
Red Blood Cell Destruction in Autoimmune Hemolytic Anemia: Role of Complement and Potential New Targets for Therapy
Authors: Berentsen Sigbjørn , Sundic Tatjana
Published: January 2015

Autoimmune hemolytic anemia (AIHA) is a collective term for several diseases characterized by autoantibody-initiated destruction of red blood cells (RBCs). Exact subclassification is essential. We provide a review of the respective types of AIHA with emphasis on mechanisms of RBC destruction, focusing in particular on complement involvement. Complement activation plays a definitive but limited role in warm-antibody AIHA (w-AIHA), whereas primary cold agglutinin disease (CAD), secondary cold agglutinin syndrome (CAS), and paroxysmal cold hemoglobinuria (PCH) are entirely complement-dependent disorders. The details of complement involvement differ among these subtypes. The theoretical background for therapeutic complement inhibition in selected patients is very strong in CAD, CAS, and PCH but more limited in w-AIHA. The optimal target complement component for inhibition is assumed to be important and highly dependent on the type of AIHA. Complement modulation is currently not an evidence-based therapy modality in any AIHA, but a number of experimental and preclinical studies are in progress and a few clinical observations have been reported. Clinical studies of new complement inhibitors are probably not far ahead.
Midterm Electricity Market Clearing Price Forecasting Using Two-Stage Multiple Support Vector Machine
Authors: Yan Xing , Chowdhury Nurul A.
Published: January 2015

Currently, there are many techniques available for short-term forecasting of the electricity market clearing price (MCP), but very little work has been done in the area of midterm forecasting of the electricity MCP. The midterm forecasting of the electricity MCP is essential for maintenance scheduling, planning, bilateral contracting, resources reallocation, and budgeting. A two-stage multiple support vector machine (SVM) based midterm forecasting model of the electricity MCP is proposed in this paper. The first stage is utilized to separate the input data into corresponding price zones by using a single SVM. Then, the second stage is applied utilizing four parallel designed SVMs to forecast the electricity price in four different price zones. Compared to the forecasting model using a single SVM, the proposed model showed improved forecasting accuracy in both peak prices and overall system. PJM interconnection data are used to test the proposed model.
Irrigated Tip Catheters for Radiofrequency Ablation in Ventricular Tachycardia
Authors: Müssigbrodt Andreas , Grothoff Matthias , Dinov Borislav , Kosiuk Jedrzej , Richter Sergio , Sommer Philipp , Breithardt Ole A. , Rolf Sascha , Bollmann Andreas , Arya Arash , Hindricks Gerhard
Published: January 2015

Radiofrequency (RF) ablation with irrigated tip catheters decreases the likelihood of thrombus and char formation and enables the creation of larger lesions. Due to the potential dramatic consequences, the prevention of thromboembolic events is of particular importance for left-sided procedures. Although acute success rates of ventricular tachycardia (VT) ablation are satisfactory, recurrence rate is high. Apart from the progress of the underlying disease, reconduction and the lack of effective transmural lesions play a major role for VT recurrences. This paper reviews principles of lesion formation with radiofrequency and the effect of tip irrigation as well as recent advances in new technology. Potential areas of further development of catheter technology might be the improvement of mapping by better substrate definition and resolution, the introduction of bipolar and multipolar ablation techniques into clinical routine, and the use of alternative sources of energy.
High Dose Dexmedetomidine: Effective as a Sole Agent Sedation for Children Undergoing MRI
Authors: Ahmed Sheikh Sohail , Unland Tamara , Slaven James E. , Nitu Mara E.
Published: January 2015

Objective. To determine the efficacy and safety of high dose dexmedetomidine as a sole sedative agent for MRI. We report our institution’s experience.Design. A retrospective institutional review of dexmedetomidine usage for pediatric MRI over 5.5 years. Protocol included a dexmedetomidine bolus of 2 μg/kg intravenously over ten minutes followed by 1 μg/kg/hr infusion. 544 patients received high dose dexmedetomidine for MRI. A second bolus was used in 103 (18.9%) patients. 117 (21.5%) required additional medications. Efficacy, side effects, and use of additional medicines to complete the MRI were reviewed. Data was analyzed using Student’st-test, Fisher’s exact test, and Analysis of Variance (ANOVA).Main Results.Dexmedetomidine infusion was associated with bradycardia (3.9%) and hypotension (18.4%). None of the patients required any intervention. Vital signs were not significantly different among the subgroup of patients receiving one or two boluses of dexmedetomidine or additional medications. Procedure time was significantly shorter in the group receiving only one dexmedetomidine bolus and increased with second bolus or additional medications (P<0.0001). Discharge time was longer for children experiencing bradycardia (P=0.0012).Conclusion. High dose Dexmedetomidine was effective in 78.5% of cases; 21.5% of patients required additional medications. Side effects occurred in approximately 25% of cases, resolving spontaneously.

Corrigendum to “High Dose Dexmedetomidine: Effective as a Sole Agent Sedation for Children Undergoing MRI”
A Novel Minimal Invasive Mouse Model of Extracorporeal Circulation
Authors: Luo Shuhua , Tang Menglin , Du Lei , Gong Lina , Xu Jin , Chen Youwen , Wang Yabo , Lin Ke , An Qi
Published: January 2015

Extracorporeal circulation (ECC) is necessary for conventional cardiac surgery and life support, but it often triggers systemic inflammation that can significantly damage tissue. Studies of ECC have been limited to large animals because of the complexity of the surgical procedures involved, which has hampered detailed understanding of ECC‐induced injury. Here we describe a minimally invasive mouse model of ECC that may allow more extensive mechanistic studies. The right carotid artery and external jugular vein of anesthetized adult male C57BL/6 mice were cannulated to allow blood flow through a 1/32‐inch external tube. All animals (n = 20) survived 30 min ECC and subsequent 60 min observation. Blood analysis after ECC showed significant increases in levels of tumor necrosis factor α, interleukin‐6, and neutrophil elastase in plasma, lung, and renal tissues, as well as increases in plasma creatinine and cystatin C and decreases in the oxygenation index. Histopathology showed that ECC induced the expected lung inflammation, which included alveolar congestion, hemorrhage, neutrophil infiltration, and alveolar wall thickening; in renal tissue, ECC induced intracytoplasmic vacuolization, acute tubular necrosis, and epithelial swelling. Our results suggest that this novel, minimally invasive mouse model can recapitulate many of the clinical features of ECC‐induced systemic inflammatory response and organ injury.
Renal and Neurological Response with Eculizumab in a Patient with Transplant Associated Thrombotic Microangiopathy after Allogeneic Hematopoietic Progenitor Cell Transplantation
Authors: Sevindik Ömür Gökmen , Alacacıoğlu İnci , Katgı Abdullah , Solmaz Şerife Medeni , Acar Celal , Pişkin Özden , Özcan Mehmet Ali , Demirkan Fatih , Ündar Bülent , Özsan Güner Hayri
Published: January 2015

Transplantation-associated thrombotic microangiopathy (TA-TMA) is a challenge after allogeneic hematopoietic progenitor cell transplantation, considering the diagnostic uncertainties and lack of established treatment. We report a 43-year-old male patient who was diagnosed as TA-TMA after allogeneic progenitor cell transplantation for a progressive ALK negative anaplastic large cell lymphoma and responded to eculizumab with dramatically improving neurological status and renal function. Rapid neurological and renal recovery achieved after eculizumab could support a possible relationship between complement activation and TA-TMA. Eculizumab should be a reasonable treatment approach in patients with TA-TMA after allogeneic hematopoietic progenitor cell transplantation.
Anti‐HMGB1 Monoclonal Antibody Ameliorates Immunosuppression after Peripheral Tissue Trauma: Attenuated T‐Lymphocyte Response and Increased Splenic CD11b+Gr‐1+ Myeloid‐Derived Suppressor Cells Require HMGB1
Authors: Ruan Xiangcai , Darwiche Sophie S. , Cai Changchun , Scott Melanie J. , Pape Hans-Christoph , Billiar Timothy R.
Published: January 2015

Although tissue‐derived high mobility group box 1 (HMGB1) is involved in many aspects of inflammation and tissue injury after trauma, its role in trauma‐induced immune suppression remains elusive. Using an established mouse model of peripheral tissue trauma, which includes soft tissue and fracture components, we report here that treatment with anti‐HMGB1 monoclonal antibody ameliorated the trauma‐induced attenuated T‐cell responses and accumulation of CD11b+Gr‐1+ myeloid‐derived suppressor cells in the spleens seen two days after injury. Our data suggest that HMGB1 released after tissue trauma contributes to signaling pathways that lead to attenuation of T‐lymphocyte responses and enhancement of myeloid‐derived suppressor cell expansion.
Dietary Pattern and Metabolic Syndrome in Thai Adults
Authors: Aekplakorn W. , Satheannoppakao W. , Putwatana P. , Taneepanichskul S. , Kessomboon P. , Chongsuvivatwong V. , Chariyalertsak S.
Published: January 2015

Objectives. To determine the dietary patterns of middle-aged Thais and their association with metabolic syndrome (MetS).Methods. The Thai National Health Examination Survey IV data of 5,872 participants aged ≥30–59 years were used. Dietary patterns were obtained by factor analysis and their associations with Mets were examined using multiple logistic regression.Results. Three major dietary patterns were identified. The first, meat pattern, was characterized by a high intake of red meat, processed meat, and fried food. The second, healthy pattern, equated to a high intake of beans, vegetables, wheat, and dairy products. The third, high carbohydrate pattern, had a high intake of glutinous rice, fermented fish, chili paste, and bamboo shoots. Respondents with a healthy pattern were more likely to be female, higher educated, and urban residents. The carbohydrate pattern was more common in the northeast and rural areas. Compared with the lowest quartile, the highest quartile of carbohydrate pattern was associated with MetS (adjusted odds ratio: 1.82; 95% CI 1.31, 2.55 in men and 1.60; 95% CI 1.24, 2.08 in women), particularly among those with a low level of leisure time physical activity (LTPA).Conclusion. The carbohydrate pattern with low level of LTPA increased the odds of MetS.
Personality Changes after Deep Brain Stimulation in Parkinson’s Disease
Authors: Pham Uyen , Solbakk Anne-Kristin , Skogseid Inger-Marie , Toft Mathias , Pripp Are Hugo , Konglund Ane Eidahl , Andersson Stein , Haraldsen Ira Ronit , Aarsland Dag , Dietrichs Espen , Malt Ulrik Fredrik
Published: January 2015

Objectives. Deep brain stimulation of the subthalamic nucleus (STN-DBS) is a recognized therapy that improves motor symptoms in advanced Parkinson’s disease (PD). However, little is known about its impact on personality. To address this topic, we have assessed personality traits before and after STN-DBS in PD patients.Methods. Forty patients with advanced PD were assessed with the Temperament and Character Inventory (TCI): the Urgency, Premeditation, Perseverance, Sensation Seeking impulsive behaviour scale (UPPS), and the Neuroticism and Lie subscales of the Eysenck Personality Questionnaire (EPQ-N, EPQ-L) before surgery and after three months of STN-DBS. Collateral information obtained from the UPPS was also reported.Results. Despite improvement in motor function and reduction in dopaminergic dosage patients reported lower score on the TCI Persistence and Self-Transcendence scales, after three months of STN-DBS, compared to baseline (P=0.006;P=0.024). Relatives reported significantly increased scores on the UPPS Lack of Premeditation scale at follow-up (P=0.027).Conclusion. STN-DBS in PD patients is associated with personality changes in the direction of increased impulsivity.
Role of the Immunogenic and Tolerogenic Subsets of Dendritic Cells in Multiple Sclerosis
Authors: Xie Zhong-Xiang , Zhang Hong-Liang , Wu Xiu-Juan , Zhu Jie , Ma Di-Hui , Jin Tao
Published: January 2015

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is an immune‐mediated disorder in the central nervous system (CNS) characterized by inflammation and demyelination as well as axonal and neuronal degeneration. So far effective therapies to reverse the disease are still lacking; most therapeutic drugs can only ameliorate the symptoms or reduce the frequency of relapse. Dendritic cells (DCs) are professional antigen presenting cells (APCs) that are key players in both mediating immune responses and inducing immune tolerance. Increasing evidence indicates that DCs contribute to the pathogenesis of MS and might provide an avenue for therapeutic intervention. Here, we summarize the immunogenic and tolerogenic roles of DCs in MS and review medicinal drugs that may affect functions of DCs and have been applied in clinic for MS treatment. We also describe potential therapeutic molecules that can target DCs by inducing anti‐inflammatory cytokines and inhibiting proinflammatory cytokines in MS.
Acute Effect of Cigarette Smoking on Pupil Size and Ocular Aberrations: A Pre- and Postsmoking Study
Authors: Erdem Uzeyir , Gundogan Fatih C. , Dinc Umut Aslı , Yolcu Umit , Ilhan Abdullah , Altun Salih
Published: January 2015

Aim.To evaluate the acute effects of cigarette smoking on photopic and mesopic pupil sizes and wavefront aberrations.Methods.Cigarette smoker volunteers were recruited in the study. Photopic and mesopic pupil sizes and total ocular aberrations were measured before smoking and immediately after smoking. All volunteers were asked to smoke a single cigarette containing 1.0 mg nicotine. Pupil sizes and total ocular aberrations were assessed by optical path difference scanning system (OPD-Scan II ARK-10000, NIDEK). Only the right eyes were considered for statistical analysis. The changes of pupil size and total ocular aberrations after smoking were tested for significance by Wilcoxon signed ranks test.Results.Mean photopic pupil size decreased from 3.52 ± 0.73 mm to 3.29 ± 0.58 mm(P=0.001)after smoking. Mean mesopic pupil size was also decreased from 6.42 ± 0.75 mm to 6.14 ± 0.75 mm after smoking(P=0.001). There was a decrease in all the measured components of aberrations (total wavefront aberration, higher-order aberration, total coma, total trefoil, total tetrafoil, total spherical aberration and total higher-order aberration) after smoking; however the differences were insignificant for all(P>0.05).Conclusion.Our results indicate that pupil constricts after smoking. On the other hand, smoking does not alter ocular aberrations.