bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Protein feeding pattern, casein feeding, or milk-soluble protein feeding did not change the evolution of body composition during a short-term weight loss program
Authors: Adechian Solange , Balage Michèle , Remond Didier , Migné Carole , Quignard-Boulangé Annie , Marset-Baglieri Agnès , Rousset Sylvie , Boirie Yves , Gaudichon Claire , Dardevet Dominique , Mosoni Laurent
Published: August 2012

Studies have shown that timing of protein intake, leucine content, and speed of digestion significantly affect postprandial protein utilization. Our aim was to determine if one can spare lean body mass during energy restriction by varying the quality and the timing of protein intake. Obese volunteers followed a 6-wk restricted energy diet. Four groups were compared: casein pulse, casein spread, milk-soluble protein (MSP, = whey) pulse, and MSP spread ( n = 10–11 per group). In casein groups, caseins were the only protein source; it was MSP in MSP groups. Proteins were distributed in four meals per day in the proportion 8:80:4:8% in the pulse groups; it was 25:25:25:25% in the spread groups. We measured weight, body composition, nitrogen balance, 3-methylhistidine excretion, perception of hunger, plasma parameters, adipose tissue metabolism, and whole body protein metabolism. Volunteers lost 7.5 ± 0.4 kg of weight, 5.1 ± 0.2 kg of fat, and 2.2 ± 0.2 kg of lean mass, with no difference between groups. In adipose tissue, cell size and mRNA expression of various genes were reduced with no difference between groups. Hunger perception was also never different between groups. In the last week, due to a higher inhibition of protein degradation and despite a lower stimulation of protein synthesis, postprandial balance between whole body protein synthesis and degradation was better with caseins than with MSP. It seems likely that the positive effect of caseins on protein balance occurred only at the end of the experiment.
Constitutively active phosphodiesterase activity regulates urinary bladder smooth muscle function: critical role of KCa1.1 channel
Authors: Xin Wenkuan , Cheng Qiuping , Soder Rupal P. , Rovner Eric S. , Petkov Georgi V.
Published: August 2012

Pharmacological blockade of cyclic nucleotide phosphodiesterase (PDE) can relax human urinary bladder smooth muscle (UBSM); however, the underlying cellular mechanism is unknown. In this study, we investigated the effects of PDE pharmacological blockade on human UBSM excitability, spontaneous and nerve-evoked contractility, and determined the underlying cellular mechanism mediating these effects. Patch-clamp electrophysiological experiments showed that 3-isobutyl-1-methylxanthine (10 μM), a nonselective PDE inhibitor, caused ∼3.6-fold increase in the transient KCa1.1 channel current frequency and ∼2.5-fold increase in the spontaneous transient hyperpolarization frequency in UBSM-isolated cells. PDE blockade also caused ∼5.6-mV hyperpolarization of the UBSM cell membrane potential. Blocking the KCa1.1 channels with paxilline abolished the spontaneous transient hyperpolarization and the hyperpolarization effect of PDE blockade on the UBSM cell membrane potential. Live cell Ca2+-imaging experiments showed that PDE blockade significantly decreased the global intracellular Ca2+ levels. Attenuation of PDE activity significantly reduced spontaneous phasic contraction amplitude, muscle force integral, duration, frequency, and muscle tone of human UBSM isolated strips. Blockade of PDE also significantly reduced the contraction amplitude, muscle force integral, and duration of the nerve-evoked contractions induced by 20-Hz electrical field stimulation. Pharmacological inhibition of KCa1.1 channels abolished the relaxation effects of PDE blockade on both spontaneous and nerve-evoked contractions in human UBSM-isolated strips. Our data provide strong evidence that in human UBSM PDE is constitutively active, thus maintaining spontaneous UBSM contractility. PDE blockade causes relaxation of human UBSM by increasing transient KCa1.1 channel current activity, hyperpolarizing cell membrane potential, and decreasing the global intracellular Ca2+.
Impact of response duration on multisensory integration
Authors: Ghose Dipanwita , Barnett Zachary P. , Wallace Mark T.
Published: August 2012

Multisensory neurons in the superior colliculus (SC) have been shown to have large receptive fields that are heterogeneous in nature. These neurons have the capacity to integrate their different sensory inputs, a process that has been shown to depend on the physical characteristics of the stimuli that are combined (i.e., spatial and temporal relationship and relative effectiveness). Recent work has highlighted the interdependence of these factors in driving multisensory integration, adding a layer of complexity to our understanding of multisensory processes. In the present study our goal was to add to this understanding by characterizing how stimulus location impacts the temporal dynamics of multisensory responses in cat SC neurons. The results illustrate that locations within the spatial receptive fields (SRFs) of these neurons can be divided into those showing short-duration responses and long-duration response profiles. Most importantly, discharge duration appears to be a good determinant of multisensory integration, such that short-duration responses are typically associated with a high magnitude of multisensory integration (i.e., superadditive responses) while long-duration responses are typically associated with low integrative capacity. These results further reinforce the complexity of the integrative features of SC neurons and show that the large SRFs of these neurons are characterized by vastly differing temporal dynamics, dynamics that strongly shape the integrative capacity of these neurons.
A calibration-free electrode compensation method
Authors: Rossant Cyrille , Fontaine Bertrand , Magnusson Anna K. , Brette Romain
Published: August 2012

In a single-electrode current-clamp recording, the measured potential includes both the response of the membrane and that of the measuring electrode. The electrode response is traditionally removed using bridge balance, where the response of an ideal resistor representing the electrode is subtracted from the measurement. Because the electrode is not an ideal resistor, this procedure produces capacitive transients in response to fast or discontinuous currents. More sophisticated methods exist, but they all require a preliminary calibration phase, to estimate the properties of the electrode. If these properties change after calibration, the measurements are corrupted. We propose a compensation method that does not require preliminary calibration. Measurements are compensated offline by fitting a model of the neuron and electrode to the trace and subtracting the predicted electrode response. The error criterion is designed to avoid the distortion of compensated traces by spikes. The technique allows electrode properties to be tracked over time and can be extended to arbitrary models of electrode and neuron. We demonstrate the method using biophysical models and whole cell recordings in cortical and brain-stem neurons.
A PrioriDirect Numerical Simulation Modelling of the Curvature Term of the Flame Surface Density Transport Equation for Nonunity Lewis Number Flames in the Context of Large Eddy Simulations
Authors: Katragadda Mohit , Chakraborty Nilanjan
Published: August 2012

A Direct Numerical Simulation (DNS) database of freely propagating statistically planar turbulent premixed flames with Lewis numbersLeranging from 0.34 to 1.2 has been used to analyse the statistical behaviours of the curvature term of the generalised Flame surface Density (FSD) transport equation, in the context of the Large Eddy Simulation (LES). Lewis number is shown to have significant influences on the statistical behaviours of the resolved and sub-grid parts of the FSD curvature term. It has been found that the existing models for the sub-grid curvature termCsgdo not capture the qualitative behaviour of this term extracted from the DNS database for flames withLe<<1. The existing models ofCsgonly predict negative values, whereas the sub-grid curvature term is shown to assume positive values within the flame brush for theLe=0.34and 0.6 flames. Here the sub-grid curvature terms arising from combined reaction and normal diffusion and tangential diffusion components of displacement speed are individually modelled, and the new model of the sub-grid curvature term has been found to captureCsgextracted from DNS data satisfactorily for all the different Lewis number flames considered here for a wide range of filter widths.
Chinese Medicine in Diabetic Peripheral Neuropathy: Experimental Research on Nerve Repair and Regeneration
Authors: Piao Yuanlin , Liang Xiaochun
Published: August 2012

Diabetic peripheral neuropathy (DPN) is one of the most common complications of chronic diabetes mellitus. Pathological characteristics of DPN include axonal atrophy, nerve demyelination, and delayed regeneration of peripheral sensory nerve fibers. The goal of treatment in DPN is not only to ameliorate neurological symptoms but also to slow or reverse the underlying neurodegenerative process. Schwann cells and neurotrophic factors play important roles in the repair and regeneration of peripheral nerves. The present paper reviews current studies and evidence regarding the neurological effects of traditional Chinese medicine, with an emphasis on recent developments in the area of nerve repair and regeneration in DPN.
Does Cattle Milieu Provide a Potential Point to Target Wild ExophilicAnopheles arabiensis(Diptera: Culicidae) with Entomopathogenic Fungus? A Bioinsecticide Zooprophylaxis Strategy for Vector Control
Authors: Lyimo Issa N. , Ng'habi Kija R. , Mpingwa Monica W. , Daraja Ally A. , Mwasheshe Dickson D. , Nchimbi Nuru S. , Lwetoijera Dickson W. , Mnyone Ladslaus L.
Published: August 2012

Background.Anopheles arabiensisis increasingly dominating malaria transmission in Africa. The exophagy in mosquitoes threatens the effectiveness of indoor vector control strategies. This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of fungus againstAn. arabiensiswhen applied on cattle and their environments.Methods. Experiments were conducted under semi-field and small-scale field conditions within Kilombero valley. The semi-field reared females of 5–7 days oldAn. arabiensiswere exposed to fungus-treated and untreated calf. Further, wildAn. arabiensiswere exposed to fungus-treated calves, mud-huts, and their controls. Mosquitoes were recaptured the next morning and proportion fed, infected, and survived were evaluated. Experiments were replicated three times using different individuals of calves.Results. A high proportion ofAn. arabiensiswas fed on calves (>0.90) and become infected (0.94) while resting on fungus-treated mud walls than on other surfaces. However, fungus treatments reduced fecundity and survival of mosquitoes.Conclusion. This study demonstrates for the first time the potential of cattle and their milieu for controllingAn. arabiensis. Most ofAn. arabiensiswere fed and infected while resting on fungus-treated mud walls than on other surfaces. Fungus treatments reduced fecundity and survival of mosquitoes. These results suggest deployment of bioinsecticide zooprophylaxis against exophilicAn. arabiensis.
Acetate Activation inMethanosaeta thermophila: Characterization of the Key Enzymes Pyrophosphatase and Acetyl-CoA Synthetase
Authors: Berger Stefanie , Welte Cornelia , Deppenmeier Uwe
Published: August 2012

The thermophilic methanogenMethanosaeta thermophilauses acetate as sole substrate for methanogenesis. It was proposed that the acetate activation reaction that is needed to feed acetate into the methanogenic pathway requires the hydrolysis of two ATP, whereas the acetate activation reaction inMethanosarcina sp.is known to require only one ATP. As these organisms live at the thermodynamic limit that sustains life, the acetate activation reaction inMt. thermophilaseems too costly and was thus reevaluated. It was found that of the putative acetate activation enzymes one gene encoding an AMP-forming acetyl-CoA synthetase was highly expressed. The corresponding enzyme was purified and characterized in detail. It catalyzed the ATP-dependent formation of acetyl-CoA, AMP, and pyrophosphate(PPi)and was only moderately inhibited byPPi. The breakdown ofPPiwas performed by a soluble pyrophosphatase. This enzyme was also purified and characterized. The pyrophosphatase hydrolyzed the major part ofPPi(KM=0.27±0.05 mM) that was produced in the acetate activation reaction. Activity was not inhibited by nucleotides orPPi. However, it cannot be excluded that otherPPi-dependent enzymes take advantage of the remainingPPiand contribute to the energy balance of the cell.
Derecruitment Test and Surfactant Therapy in Patients with Acute Lung Injury
Authors: Smetkin Alexey A. , Kuzkov Vsevolod V. , Gaidukov Konstantin M. , Bjertnaes Lars J. , Kirov Mikhail Y.
Published: August 2012

Introduction. A recruitment maneuver (RM) may improve gas exchange in acute lung injury (ALI). The aim of our study was to assess the predictive value of a derecruitment test in relation to RM and to evaluate the efficacy of RM combined with surfactant instillation in patients with ALI.Materials and Methods. Thirteen adult mechanically ventilated patients with ALI were enrolled into a prospective pilot study. The patients received protective ventilation and underwent RM followed by a derecruitment test. After a repeat RM, bovine surfactant (surfactant group,n=6) or vehicle only (conventional therapy group,n=7) was instilled endobronchially. We registered respiratory and hemodynamic parameters, including extravascular lung water index (EVLWI).Results. The derecruitment test decreased the oxygenation in 62% of the patients. We found no significant correlation between the responses to the RM and to the derecruitment tests. The baseline EVLWI correlated with changes in SpO2following the derecruitment test. The surfactant did not affect gas exchange and lung mechanics but increased EVLWI at 24 and 32 hrs.Conclusions. Our study demonstrated no predictive value of the derecruitment test regarding the effects of RM. Surfactant instillation was not superior to conventional therapy and might even promote pulmonary edema in ALI.
Rapid Screening of the Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor Phosphosignaling Pathway via Microplate-Based Dot Blot Assays
Authors: Cappione Amedeo , Smith Janet , Mabuchi Masaharu , Nadler Timothy
Published: August 2012

Expression profiling on a large scale, as is the case in drug discovery, is often accomplished through use of sophisticated solid-phase protein microarrays or multiplex bead technologies. While offering both high-throughput and high-content analysis, these platforms are often too cost prohibitive or technically challenging for many research settings. Capitalizing on the favorable attributes of the standard ELISA and slot blotting techniques, we developed a modified dot blot assay that provides a simple cost-effective alternative for semiquantitative expression analysis of multiple proteins across multiple samples. Similar in protocol to an ELISA, but based in a membrane bound 96-well microplate, the assay takes advantage of vacuum filtration to expedite the tedious process of washing in between binding steps. We report on the optimization of the assay and demonstrate its use in profiling temporal changes in phosphorylation events in the well-characterized EGF-induced signaling cascade of A431 cells.
The Influence of Poverty and Culture on the Transmission of Parasitic Infections in Rural Nicaraguan Villages
Authors: Karan Abraar , Chapman Gretchen B. , Galvani Alison
Published: August 2012

Intestinal parasitic infections cause one of the largest global burdens of disease. To identify possible areas for interventions, a structured questionnaire addressing knowledge, attitude, and practice regarding parasitic infections as well as the less studied role of culture and resource availability was presented to mothers of school-age children in rural communities around San Juan del Sur, Nicaragua. We determined that access to resources influenced knowledge, attitude, and behaviors that may be relevant to transmission of parasitic infections. For example, having access to a clinic and prior knowledge about parasites was positively correlated with the practice of having fencing for animals, having fewer barefoot children, and treating children for parasites. We also found that cultural beliefs may contribute to parasitic transmission. Manifestations ofmachismoculture and faith in traditional medicines conflicted with healthy practices. We identified significant cultural myths that prevented healthy behaviors, including the beliefs that cutting a child’s nails can cause tetanus and that showering after a hot day caused sickness. The use of traditional medicine was positively correlated with the belief in these cultural myths. Our study demonstrates that the traditional knowledge, attitude, and practice model could benefit from including components that examine resource availability and culture.
Influenza-Associated Mortality in Georgia (2009–2011)
Authors: Butsashvili Maia , Kandelaki George , Zakhashvili Khatuna , Machablishvili Ana , Avaliani Nata
Published: August 2012

We analyzed data from NCDCPH Georgia where samples from outpatients with influenza-like illness (ILI) and inpatients with severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARI) are referred for testing on influenza virus using PCR analysis. During 2009-2010 and 2010-2011 influenza pandemics total number of the laboratory-confirmed influenza cases were 1286 with 33 deaths (all of them influenza type A) and 1203 (51.4% type A) with 44 deaths, respectively. At least one underlying medical condition was reported in 70.7% (for pandemic influenza strain) and 96% (for influenza type B) of deaths. Predominating preexisting condition was coronary heart disease.
Finite‐Horizon Optimal Control of Discrete‐Time Switched Linear Systems
Authors: Zhu Qixin , Xie Guangming
Published: August 2012

Finite‐horizon optimal control problems for discrete‐time switched linear control systems are investigated in this paper. Two kinds of quadratic cost functions are considered. The weight matrices are different. One is subsystem dependent; the other is time dependent. For a switched linear control system, not only the control input but also the switching signals are control factors and are needed to be designed in order to minimize cost function. As a result, optimal design for switched linear control systems is more
complicated than that of non‐switched ones. By using the principle of dynamic programming, the optimal control laws including both the optimal switching signal and the optimal control inputs are obtained for the two problems. Two examples are given to verify the theory results in this paper.
Potential Extensions of the US FRAX Algorithm
Authors: Melton L. Joseph , Atkinson Elizabeth J. , Achenbach Sara J. , Kanis John A. , Therneau Terry M. , Johansson Helena , Khosla Sundeep , Amin Shreyasee
Published: August 2012

To determine if the revised US FRAX can identify those at high risk for fractures at any skeletal site, we studied 250 women and 249 men≥40years old from an age-stratified random sample of Rochester, MN residents. At baseline, femoral neck (FN) bone density was assessed, as were the clinical risk factors included in FRAX, along with additional fracture risk factors such as bone turnover markers and fall history. Fracture ascertainment through periodic interviews and comprehensive medical record review was performed over 10 years of followup. In both women and men, a higher FRAX probability at baseline was associated with greater subsequent likelihood of a major osteoporotic fracture. However, a relative 10% increase in the FRAX 10-year fracture probability was also associated with a 1.4-fold increase (95% confidence interval (CI) 1.1–1.7) in other fractures in women and a 1.7-fold increase (95% CI 0.8–3.1) in men. Furthermore, FRAX predicted asymptomatic vertebral fractures and fractures generally in both sexes. The addition of risk factors not currently included in FRAX did not appear to improve the accuracy of fracture risk prediction. FRAX may provide a conservative estimate of risk for major osteoporotic fractures, but it also predicts fractures generally.
The Value of Desmethylclozapine and Serum CRP in Clozapine Toxicity: A Case Report
Authors: Abou Farha Khalid , van Vliet Andre , Knegtering Henderikus , Bruggeman Richard
Published: August 2012

Clozapine, an atypical antipsychotic, has proved to be superior to other antipsychotics in treating patients with refractory schizophrenia. An increased plasma clozapine level above the therapeutic window may be associated with serious adverse events including paralytic ileus. Clozapine toxicity may occur in association with infection or after drug overdose. In a medical emergency situation, differentiating between a toxic clozapine ingestion and an infection-induced toxicity might be hindered by associated CNS changes and by the clozapine modulation of the inflammatory process. This may delay prompt initiation of a tailored treatment strategy. Here, we report a case of paralytic ileus developed within the context of clozapine toxicity. Although the underlying cause of toxicity was not clinically obvious, giving antimicrobial therapy resulted in an improvement in the patient’s clinical condition. This report indicates the value of serum levels of C-reactive protein and desmethylclozapine, major metabolite of clozapine, in the treatment of aetiologically unclear clozapine toxicity.
Does Personality Predict Depression and Use of an Internet-Based Intervention for Depression among Adolescents?
Authors: Vangberg Hans Christian B. , Lillevoll Kjersti R. , Waterloo Knut , Eisemann Martin
Published: August 2012

Background. Focus upon depression and prevention of its occurrence among adolescents is increasing. Novel ways of dealing with this serious problem have become available especially by means of internet-based prevention and treatment programs of depression and anxiety. The use of Internet-based intervention programs among adolescents has revealed some difficulties in implementation that need to be further elucidated. The aim of this study is to investigate the association between personality and adolescent depression and the characteristics of users of an Internet-based intervention program.Method. The Junior Temperament and Character Inventory (JTCI), the General Self-Efficacy scale (GSE) and the Centre for Epidemiological Studies-Depression scale (CES-D) have been administered to a sample of Norwegian senior high-school students.Results. Multiple regression analysis revealed associations between depression and gender, and several JTCI domains and facets. In line with previous findings in adults, high Harm Avoidance and low Self-Directedness emerged as the strongest predictors of adolescent depressive symptoms. Further, in logistic regression analysis with the covariates JTCI, GSE and CES-D, the only significant variables predicting use/non-use were the CES-D and the temperament domain Reward Dependence.Conclusion. The results in this study revealed level of depressive symptoms as the strongest predictor of the use of the Internet based intervention and that personality might provide useful information about the users.
OnGCR-Lightlike Product of Indefinite Cosymplectic Manifolds
Authors: Jain Varun , Kumar Rakesh , Nagaich R. K.
Published: August 2012

We defineGCR-lightlike submanifolds of indefinite cosymplectic manifolds and give an example. Then, we study mixed geodesicGCR-lightlike submanifolds of indefinite cosymplectic manifolds and obtain some characterization theorems for aGCR-lightlike submanifold to be aGCR-lightlike product.
Molecular Mechanisms Underlying Anti-Inflammatory Actions of 6-(Methylsulfinyl)hexyl Isothiocyanate Derived from Wasabi (Wasabia japonica)
Authors: Uto Takuhiro , Hou De-Xing , Morinaga Osamu , Shoyama Yukihiro
Published: August 2012

6-(Methylsulfinyl)hexyl isothiocyanate (6-MSITC) is a major bioactive compound in wasabi (Wasabia japonica), which is a typical Japanese pungent spice. Recently,in vivoandin vitrostudies demonstrated that 6-MSITC has several biological properties, including anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, antiplatelet, and anticancer effects. We previously reported that 6-MSITC strongly suppresses cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2), inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS), and cytokines, which are important factors that mediate inflammatory processes. Moreover, molecular analysis demonstrated that 6-MSITC blocks the expressions of these factors by suppressing multiple signal transduction pathways to attenuate the activation of transcriptional factors. Structure-activity relationships of 6-MSITC and its analogues containing an isothiocyanate group revealed that methylsulfinyl group and the length of alkyl chain of 6-MSITC might be related to high inhibitory potency. In this paper, we review the anti-inflammatory properties of 6-MSITC and discuss potential molecular mechanisms focusing on inflammatory responses by macrophages.
Opinions on Dental Erosive Lesions, Knowledge of Diagnosis, and Treatment Strategies among Norwegian Dentists: A Questionnaire Survey
Authors: Mulic Aida , Vidnes-Kopperud Simen , Skaare Anne B. , Tveit Anne Bjørg , Young Alix
Published: August 2012

This study aimed to investigate dentists’ general experience, knowledge about diagnosis, and treatment of dental erosive wear in young adults. A questionnaire was sent to 1262 Norwegian public dental health-employed dentists. The response rate was 60%. Results indicated that most dentists recorded erosive wear, half of them used a specific scoring system, and half registered lesions at the tooth surface level. Lesions were reported most often on palatal surfaces of upper anterior teeth (79% of dentists), on occlusal surfaces of lower 1st molars (74%), and on upper 1st molars (32%). Half the dentists used clinical photographs for documentation and 60% made study models. While 40% reported more erosive lesions in males, 36% reported no gender differences. High intake of carbonated beverages and acidic juices were reported as the most common cause by 97% and 72% of the dentists, respectively. Only 21% of dentists recorded the patient’s dietary history, and 73% never measured saliva secretion. The majority (78%) of the dentists treated patients with erosive wear themselves. In general, the survey suggests that the dentists are relatively up to date regarding the clinical recording, diagnosis, and treatment of dental erosive wear. However, dietary and salivary analyses were not given priority, and early, preventive treatment was lacking.
Convex Combinations of Minimal Graphs
Authors: Dorff Michael , Viertel Ryan , Wołoszkiewicz Magdalena
Published: August 2012

Given a collection of minimal graphs,M1,M2,…,Mn, with isothermal parametrizations in terms of the Gauss map and height differential, we give sufficient conditions onM1,M2,…,Mnso that a convex combination of them will be a minimal graph. We will then provide two examples, taking a convex combination of Scherk's doubly periodic surface with the catenoid and Enneper's surface, respectively.
The Role of Free Tissue Transfer in Merkel Cell Carcinoma of the Head and Neck
Authors: Londino III Aldo V. , Miles Brett A.
Published: August 2012

Merkel cell carcinoma (MCC) is an uncommon neuroendocrine malignancy with a propensity for the head and neck. It typically presents asymptomatically in elderly Caucasians and is characterized by early local and regional spread. There is currently limited data on the appropriate algorithm for treatment of MCC. However, multimodal therapy with wide surgical excision with or without radiation therapy has become standard of care. The location of the primary tumor and intensive adjuvant therapy is often required, provides a challenge to the reconstructive head and neck surgeon. Occasionally, free tissue transfer reconstructive techniques are employed in the reconstruction of MCC defects. This paper will discuss the role of free tissue transfer as a reconstructive option after surgery for advanced head and neck MCC.
Role of Immune Escape Mechanisms in Hodgkin's Lymphoma Development and Progression: A Whole New World with Therapeutic Implications
Authors: de la Cruz-Merino Luis , Lejeune Marylène , Nogales Fernández Esteban , Henao Carrasco Fernando , Grueso López Ana , Illescas Vacas Ana , Pulla Mariano Provencio , Callau Cristina , Álvaro Tomás
Published: August 2012

Hodgkin's lymphoma represents one of the most frequent lymphoproliferative syndromes, especially in young population. Although HL is considered one of the most curable tumors, a sizeable fraction of patients recur after successful upfront treatment or, less commonly, are primarily resistant. This work tries to summarize the data on clinical, histological, pathological, and biological factors in HL, with special emphasis on the improvement of prognosis and their impact on therapeutical strategies. The recent advances in our understanding of HL biology and immunology show that infiltrated immune cells and cytokines in the tumoral microenvironment may play different functions that seem tightly related with clinical outcomes. Strategies aimed at interfering with the crosstalk between tumoral Reed-Sternberg cells and their cellular partners have been taken into account in the development of new immunotherapies that target different cell components of HL microenvironment. This new knowledge will probably translate into a change in the antineoplastic treatments in HL in the next future and hopefully will increase the curability rates of this disease.
2D Simulation of Nd2Fe14B/α‐Fe Nanocomposite Magnets with Random Grain Distributions Generated by a Monte Carlo Procedure
Authors: Truong Nguyen Xuan , Hieu Nguyen Trung , Ky Vu Hong , Vuong Nguyen Van
Published: August 2012

The magnetic properties of Nd2Fe14B/α‐Fe nanocomposite magnets consisting of two nanostructured hard and soft magnetic grains assemblies were simulated for 2D case with random grain distributions generated by a Monte Carlo procedure. The effect of the soft phase volume fraction on the remanence Br, coercivity Hc, squareness γ, and maximum energy product (BH) max has been simulated for the case of Nd2Fe14B/α‐Fe nanocomposite magnets. The simulation results showed that, for the best case, the (BH) max can be gained up only a several tens of percentage of the origin hard magnetic phase, but not about hundred as theoretically predicted value. The main reason of this discrepancy is due to the fact that the microstructure of real nanocomposite magnets with their random feature is deviated from the modeled microstructure required for implementing the exchange coupling interaction between hard and soft magnetic grains. The hard magnetic shell/soft magnetic core nanostructure and the magnetic field assisted melt‐spinning technique seem to be prospective for future high‐performance nanocomposite magnets.
Dirichlet and Neumann Problems Related to Nonlinear Elliptic Systems: Solvability, Multiple Solutions, Solutions with Positive Components
Authors: Toscano Luisa , Toscano Speranza
Published: August 2012

We study the solvability of Dirichlet and Neumann problems for different classes of nonlinear elliptic systems depending on parameters and with nonmonotone operators, using existence theorems related to a general system of variational equations in a reflexive Banach space. We also point out some regularity properties and the sign of the found solutions components. We often prove the existence of at least two different solutions with positive components.
Opposition‐Based Barebones Particle Swarm for Constrained Nonlinear Optimization Problems
Authors: Wang Hui
Published: August 2012

This paper presents a modified barebones particle swarm optimization (OBPSO) to solve constrained nonlinear optimization problems. The proposed approach OBPSO combines barebones particle swarm optimization (BPSO) and opposition‐based learning (OBL) to improve the quality of solutions. A novel boundary search strategy is used to approach the boundary between the feasible and infeasible search region. Moreover, an adaptive penalty method is employed to handle constraints. To verify the performance of OBPSO, a set of well‐known constrained benchmark functions is used in the experiments. Simulation results show that our approach achieves a promising performance.
Vertical Patterns of Early Summer Chlorophyll a Concentration in the Indian Ocean with Special Reference to the Variation of Deep Chlorophyll Maximum
Authors: Li Gang , Lin Qiang , Ni Guangyan , Shen Pingping , Fan Yanzhi , Huang Liangmin , Tan Yehui
Published: August 2012

Vertical patterns of early summer chlorophylla(Chla) concentration from the Indian Ocean are presented, as well as the variations of depth and size-fractioned Chlain the deep chlorophyll maximum (DCM). A total of 38 stations were investigated from 12 April to 5 May 2011, with 8 discrete-depth samples (7 fixed and 1 variable at real DCM) measured at each station. Depth-integrated Chlaconcentration (∑Chl a) varied from 11.5 to 26.8 mg m−2, whereas Chlacontent at DCM ranged from 0.17 to 0.57 μg L−1with picophytoplankton (<3 μm) accounting for 82% to 93%. The DCM depth varied from 55.6 to 91 m and shoaled latitudinally to northward. Moreover, our results indicated that the∑Chl acould be underestimated by up to 9.3% with a routine sampling protocol of collecting samples only at 7 fixed depths as the real DCM was missed. The underestimation was negatively correlated to the DCM depth when it varied from 55.6 to 71.3 m (r=−0.63,P<0.05) but positively correlated when it ranged from 75.8 to 91 m (r=0.68,P<0.01). This indicates that in the Indian Ocean the greater the departure of the DCM from 75 m depth, the greater the underestimation of integrated Chlaconcentration that could occur if the real DCM is missed.
Assessment of Status ofrpoBGene in FNAC Samples of Tuberculous Lymphadenitis by Real-Time PCR
Authors: Raoot Amita , Dev Geeta
Published: August 2012

Introduction.Multidrug resistance tuberculosis (MDR TB), the combined resistance ofMycobacterium tuberculosisto isoniazid (INH) and rifampin (RFM) is a major public health problem in India as it ranks second among the MDR-TB high burden countries worldwide. WHO recommends RFM resistance as a “surrogate marker” for detecting MDR. FNAC is the most widely used noninvasive investigative technique for TB lymphadenitis. Real-time polymerase chain reaction, an extremely versatile technique can be used for the timely detection and treatment of MDR TB by assessing RFM resistance status in the FNAC samples of TB lymphadenitis.Aim.To assess the status ofrpoBgene by real-time PCR in FNAC samples of TB lymphadenitis.Materials and Methods.Thirty FNAC samples from patients with persistent LAP or appearance of new LAP after 5 months or more of Anti Tubercular Treatment were assessed for status ofrpoBgene by Real-Time PCR using probe covering the “hot spot resistance” region of therpoBgene.Result.By using probe covering codons 531 and 526 ofrpoBgene, we could detect 17 of 30 (56.7%) rifampin resistant isolate. The PCR could detectMtbDNA in 100% of cases.Conclusion.Use of molecular methods like Real-Time PCR for detection of MDR-TB in FNAC samples is time saving, logical and economical approach over the culture based method.
Severity of Occlusal Disharmonies in Down Syndrome
Authors: Bauer Danielle , Evans Carla A. , BeGole Ellen A. , Salzmann Larry
Published: August 2012

Objective. To quantify the severity of malocclusion and dental esthetic problems in untreated Down syndrome (DS) and untreated non-Down syndrome children age 8–14 years old using the PAR and ICON Indices.Materials and Methods. This retrospective study evaluated pretreatment study models, intraoral photographs, and panoramic radiographs of 30 Down syndrome and two groups of 30 non-Down syndrome patients (private practice and university clinic) age 8–14 years. The models were scored via PAR and ICON Indices, and descriptive characteristics such as Angle classification, missing or impacted teeth, crossbites, open bites, and other dental anomalies were recorded.Results. The DS group had significantly greater PAR and ICON scores, as well as 10 times more missing teeth than the non-DS group. The DS group possessed predominantly Class III malocclusions, with the presence of both anterior and posterior crossbites in a majority of the patients. The non-DS group had mostly Class I or II malocclusion with markedly fewer missing teeth and crossbites. The DS group also had more severe malocclusions based upon occlusal traits such as open bite and type of malocclusion.Conclusion. The DS group had very severe malocclusions, while the control group from the university clinic had more severe malocclusions than a control group from a private practice.
Low-Complexity Distortionless Techniques for Peak Power Reduction in OFDM Communication Systems
Authors: Ghassemi A. , Gulliver T. A.
Published: August 2012

A high peak-to-average power ratio (PAPR) is one of the major drawbacks to using orthogonal frequency division multiplexing (OFDM) modulation. The three most effective distortionless techniques for PAPR reduction are partial transmit sequence (PTS), selective mapping (SLM), and tone reservation (TR). However, the high computational complexity due to the inverse discrete Fourier transform (IDFT) is a problem with these approaches. Implementation of these techniques typically employ direct computation of the IDFT, which is not the most efficient solution. In this paper, we consider the development and performance analysis of these distortionless techniques in conjunction with low-complexity IFFT algorithms to reduce the PAPR of the OFDM signal. Recently, proposed IFFT-based techniques are shown to substantially reduce the computational complexity and improve PAPR performance.
Sample Size Growth with an Increasing Number of Comparisons
Authors: Tseng Chi-Hong , Shao Yongzhao
Published: August 2012

An appropriate sample size is crucial for the success of many studies that involve a large number of comparisons. Sample size formulas for testing multiple hypotheses are provided in this paper. They can be used to determine the sample sizes required to provide adequate power while controlling familywise error rate or false discovery rate, to derive the growth rate of sample size with respect to an increasing number of comparisons or decrease in effect size, and to assess reliability of study designs. It is demonstrated that practical sample sizes can often be achieved even when adjustments for a large number of comparisons are made as in many genomewide studies.
Combination Therapy of Interferon Beta-1b and Tacrolimus: A Pilot Safety Study
Authors: Jacques F. , Gaboury I. , Christie S. , Grand'Maison F.
Published: August 2012

Tacrolimus is a calcineurin inhibitor which works to induce immune suppression by preventing cytokine transcription and lymphocyte activation. Combining the immunomodulator interferon beta-1b (Betaseron) with the immunosuppressant tacrolimus (Prograf) may have the potential of additive therapeutic benefit through the complementary mechanisms of action of these two therapeutics. In this randomized, open-label, multicenter, two-arm pilot study, the authors examined the safety and tolerability of the combination of interferon beta-1b and tacrolimus in relapsing remitting (RRMS) and secondary progressive (SPMS) multiple sclerosis patients who have failed one or more immunomodulatory therapies. Patients (n=25) received a combination of interferon beta-1b subcutaneously every other day and oral tacrolimus (low blood level tacrolimus, 1–5 ng/mL, or high blood level tacrolimus, 5–10 ng/mL) for a period of 38 weeks. The combination therapy of interferon beta-1b and tacrolimus over the 10-month period of the study was shown to be safe and relatively well tolerated. There were no unexpected adverse events occurring as the result of the combination therapy. Further study of this combination therapy in patients with multiple sclerosis unresponsive to conventional therapy is warranted.
Neurodegenerative Shielding by Curcumin and Its Derivatives on Brain Lesions Induced by 6-OHDA Model of Parkinson's Disease in Albino Wistar Rats
Authors: Agrawal Shyam Sunder , Gullaiya Sumeet , Dubey Vishal , Singh Varun , Kumar Ashok , Nagar Ashish , Tiwari Poonam
Published: August 2012

Study was undertaken to evaluate the neurodegenerative defending potential of curcumin (CUR), demethoxycurcumin (DMC), and bisdemethoxycurcumin (BDMC) on 6-hydroxydopamine-(6-OHDA) induced Parkinsonism model in rats. Curcuminoids were administered (60 mg/kg, body weight, per oral) for three weeks followed by unilateral injection of 6-OHDA on 22nd day (10 μg/2 μL) into the right striatum leading to extensive loss of dopaminergic cells. The behavioral observations, biochemical markers, quantification of dopamine (DA), DOPAC, and HVA followed by dopamine (D2) receptor binding assay and tyrosine hydroxylase (TH, using immunohistochemistry) were evaluated using HPLC after three weeks of lesion. Pretreated animals showed significant protection against neuronal degeneration compared to lesion animals by normalizing the deranged levels of biomarkers and showed the potency in the order CUR > DMC > BDMC. The same order of effectiveness was observed in D2receptors binding assay and TH immunohistochemistry study. We conclude that curcuminoids appear to shield progressive neuronal degeneration from increased oxidative attack in 6-OHDA-lesioned rats through its free radical scavenging mechanism, and DA, DOPAC, and HVA enhancing capabilities in the sequence of efficacy CUR > DMC > BDMC. Further, curcuminoids may have potential utility in treatment of many more oxidative stress-induced neurodegenerative disorders.
Stability and Feedback Stabilization of HIV Infection Model with Two Classes of Target Cells
Authors: Elaiw A. M. , Shehata A. M.
Published: August 2012

We study the stability and feedback stabilization of the uninfected steady state of a human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection model. The model is a 6‐dimensional nonlinear ODEs that describes the interaction of the HIV with two classes of target cells, CD4+ T cells and macrophages, and takes into account the Cytotoxic T Lymphocytes (CTLs) immune response. Lyapunov function is constructed to establish the global asymptotic stability of the uninfected steady state of the model. In a control system framework, the HIV infection model incorporating the effect of Highly Active AntiRetroviral Therapy (HAART) is considered as a nonlinear control system with drug dose as control input. We developed treatment schedules for HIV‐infected patients by using Model Predictive Control (MPC‐)based method. The MPC is constructed on the basis of an approximate discrete‐time model of the HIV infection model. The MPC is applied to the stabilization of the uninfected steady state of the HIV infection model. Besides model inaccuracies that HIV infection model suffers from, some disturbances/uncertainties from different sources may arise in the modelling. In this work the disturbances are modelled in the HIV infection model as additive bounded disturbances. The robustness of the MPC against small model uncertainties or disturbances is also shown.
Quantitative Imaging of Young’s Modulus of Soft Tissues from Ultrasound Water Jet Indentation: A Finite Element Study
Authors: Lu Min-Hua , Mao Rui , Lu Yin , Liu Zheng , Wang Tian-Fu , Chen Si-Ping
Published: August 2012

Indentation testing is a widely used approach to evaluate mechanical characteristics of soft tissues quantitatively. Young’s modulus of soft tissue can be calculated from the force-deformation data with known tissue thickness and Poisson’s ratio using Hayes’ equation. Our group previously developed a noncontact indentation system using a water jet as a soft indenter as well as the coupling medium for the propagation of high-frequency ultrasound. The novel system has shown its ability to detect the early degeneration of articular cartilage. However, there is still lack of a quantitative method to extract the intrinsic mechanical properties of soft tissue from water jet indentation. The purpose of this study is to investigate the relationship between the loading-unloading curves and the mechanical properties of soft tissues to provide an imaging technique of tissue mechanical properties. A 3D finite element model of water jet indentation was developed with consideration of finite deformation effect. An improved Hayes’ equation has been derived by introducing a new scaling factor which is dependent on Poisson’s ratiosv, aspect ratioa/h(the radius of the indenter/the thickness of the test tissue), and deformation ratiod/h. With this model, the Young’s modulus of soft tissue can be quantitatively evaluated and imaged with the error no more than 2%.
Application of Titanium Dioxide‐Graphene Composite Material for Photocatalytic Degradation of Alkylphenols
Authors: Basheer Chanbasha
Published: August 2012

Titanium dioxide‐graphene (TiO2‐G) composite was used for the photodegradation of alkylphenols in wastewater samples. The TiO2‐G composites were prepared via sonochemical and calcination methods. The synthesized composite was characterized by X‐ray diffraction (XRD), infrared spectroscopy (IR), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), energy dispersive X‐ray analysis (EDX), and fluorescence spectroscopy. The photocatalytic efficiency was evaluated by studying the degradation profiles of alkylphenols using gas chromatography‐flame ionization detector (GC‐FID). It was found that the synthesized TiO2‐G composites exhibit enhanced photocatalytic efficiencies as compared to pristine TiO2. The presence of graphene not only provides a large surface area support for the TiO2 photocatalyst, but also stabilizes charge separation by trapping electrons transferred from TiO2, thereby hindering charge transfer and enhancing its photocatalytic efficiency.
Multivariate Analysis of Metal Levels in Paddy Soil, Rice Plants, and Rice Grains: A Case Study from Shakargarh, Pakistan
Authors: Tariq Saadia R. , Rashid Nabila
Published: August 2012

The present study aims at determining the relationship between trace metal levels in paddy soils, rice plants, and rice grains obtained from these plants. The levels of selected metals (Fe, Co, Ni, Cd, Pb, and Cr) were determined by atomic absorption spectrophotometry in the soil, rice plants, and rice grain samples collected from paddy fields. All the metals were present at enhanced levels in paddy soil. Among the selected metals, Fe, Ni, Cd, and Cr were predominantly associated with oxidizable fraction. The metals such as Cr, Ni, Co, and Fe were significantly positively correlated in soil and plants, but no such correlation was observed in soil‐grain matrix evidencing that these metals have a soil‐based origin in the plants, but they were not translocated to grains. The Pb content of soil was strongly positively correlated with plants as well as the grains. The principal component analysis and cluster analysis were used to depict the origin of enhanced metal levels in rice plants. Under the given field conditions, different metals possess different translocation behaviours from soil to roots to shoots to grains. There is a dire need to implement the strategies for wise and optimum use of agrochemicals.