bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Enzymatic Characterization and
In Vivo
Function of Five Terminal Oxidases in Pseudomonas aeruginosa
Authors: Arai Hiroyuki , Kawakami Takuro , Osamura Tatsuya , Hirai Takehiro , Sakai Yoshiaki , Ishii Masaharu
Published: September 2014

The ubiquitous opportunistic pathogen
Pseudomonas aeruginosa
has five aerobic terminal oxidases:
bo
3
-type quinol oxidase (Cyo), cyanide-insensitive oxidase (CIO),
aa
3
-type cytochrome
c
oxidase (
aa
3
), and two
cbb
3
-type cytochrome
c
oxidases (
cbb
3
-1 and
cbb
3
-2). These terminal oxidases are differentially regulated under various growth conditions and are thought to contribute to the survival of this microorganism in a wide variety of environmental niches. Here, we constructed multiple mutant strains of
P. aeruginosa
that express only one aerobic terminal oxidase to investigate the enzymatic characteristics and
in vivo
function of each enzyme. The

K
m

values of Cyo, CIO, and
aa
3
for oxygen were similar and were 1 order of magnitude higher than those of
cbb
3
-1 and
cbb
3
-2, indicating that Cyo, CIO, and
aa
3
are low-affinity enzymes and that
cbb
3
-1 and
cbb
3
-2 are high-affinity enzymes. Although
cbb
3
-1 and
cbb
3
-2 exhibited different expression patterns in response to oxygen concentration, they had similar

K
m

values for oxygen. Both
cbb
3
-1 and
cbb
3
-2 utilized cytochrome
c
4
as the main electron donor under normal growth conditions. The electron transport chains terminated by
cbb
3
-1 and
cbb
3
-2 generate a proton gradient across the cell membrane with similar efficiencies. The electron transport chain of
aa
3
had the highest proton translocation efficiency, whereas that of CIO had the lowest efficiency. The enzymatic properties of the terminal oxidases reported here are partially in agreement with their regulatory patterns and may explain the environmental adaptability and versatility of
P. aeruginosa
.
The Extracellular Matrix of Staphylococcus aureus Biofilms Comprises Cytoplasmic Proteins That Associate with the Cell Surface in Response to Decreasing pH
Authors: Foulston Lucy , Elsholz Alexander K. W. , DeFrancesco Alicia S. , Losick Richard
Published: September 2014

Biofilm formation byStaphylococcus aureusinvolves the formation of an extracellular matrix, but the composition of this matrix has been uncertain. Here we report that the matrix is largely composed of cytoplasmic proteins that reversibly associate with the cell surface in a manner that depends on pH. We propose a model for biofilm formation in which cytoplasmic proteins are released from cells in stationary phase. These proteins associate with the cell surface in response to decreasing pH during biofilm formation. Rather than utilizing a dedicated matrix protein,S. aureusappears to recycle cytoplasmic proteins that moonlight as components of the extracellular matrix.

IMPORTANCEStaphylococcus aureusis a leading cause of multiantibiotic-resistant nosocomial infections and is often found growing as a biofilm in catheters and chronic wounds. Biofilm formation is an important pathogenicity strategy that enhances resistance to antimicrobials, thereby limiting treatment options and ultimately contributing to increased morbidity and mortality. Cells in a biofilm are held together by an extracellular matrix that consists in whole or in part of protein, but the nature of the proteins in theS. aureusmatrix is not well understood. Here we postulate thatS. aureusrecycles proteins from the cytoplasm to form the extracellular matrix. This strategy, of cytoplasmic proteins moonlighting as matrix proteins, could allow enhanced flexibility and adaptability forS. aureusin forming biofilms under infection conditions and could promote the formation of mixed-species biofilms in chronic wounds.
Genes Contributing to Staphylococcus aureus Fitness in Abscess- and Infection-Related Ecologies
Authors: Valentino Michael D. , Foulston Lucy , Sadaka Ama , Kos Veronica N. , Villet Regis A. , Santa Maria John , Lazinski David W. , Camilli Andrew , Walker Suzanne , Hooper David C. , Gilmore Michael S.
Published: September 2014

Staphylococcus aureus
is a leading cause of both community- and hospital-acquired infections that are increasingly antibiotic resistant. The emergence of
S. aureus
resistance to even last-line antibiotics heightens the need for the development of new drugs with novel targets. We generated a highly saturated transposon insertion mutant library in the genome of
S. aureus
and used Tn-seq analysis to probe the entire genome, with unprecedented resolution and sensitivity, for genes of importance in infection. We further identified genes contributing to fitness in various infected compartments (blood and ocular fluids) and compared them to genes required for growth in rich medium. This resulted in the identification of 426 genes that were important for
S. aureus
fitness during growth in infection models, including 71 genes that could be considered essential for survival specifically during infection. These findings highlight novel as well as previously known genes encoding virulence traits and metabolic pathways important for
S. aureus
proliferation at sites of infection, which may represent new therapeutic targets.

IMPORTANCE
Staphylococcus aureus
continues to be a leading cause of antibiotic-resistant community and nosocomial infection. With the bacterium’s acquisition of resistance to methicillin and, more recently, vancomycin, the need for the development of new drugs with novel targets is urgent. Applying a highly saturated Tn-seq mutant library to analyze fitness and growth requirements in a murine abscess and in various infection-relevant fluids, we identified
S. aureus
traits that enable it to survive and proliferate during infection. This identifies potential new targeting opportunities for the development of novel therapeutics.
Iranian adolescent girls’ barriers in accessing sexual and reproductive health information and services: a qualitative study
Authors: Shariati Mohammed , Babazadeh Raheleh , Mousavi Seyed Abbas , Najmabadi Khadijeh Mirzaii
Published: September 2014

Introduction

Adolescence is a critical period of transition from childhood to adulthood. In today's world, to pass through this period successfully it is necessary to have adequate information and knowledge about sexual and reproductive health (SRH) issues. In Iran, it is crucial that special attention be paid to reproductive health services for adolescents, especially for girls.

Purpose

This study aimed to explore the views and experiences of adolescent girls and key adults around the barriers to access of Iranian adolescent girls to SRH information and services.

Methods

In this qualitative study, data were gathered through focus groups and semi-structured interviews with 247 adolescent girls and 71 key adults including mothers, teachers, health providers, governmental, nongovernmental and international managers of health programmes, health policymakers, sociologists and clergy in four Iranian cities. Data were coded and categorised using content analysis by MAXQDA10.

Results

The main barriers identified were classified in four categories: (1) social and cultural barriers such as taboos; (2) structural and administrative barriers such as inappropriate structure of the health system; (3) political barriers such as lack of an adopted strategy by the government and (4) non-use of religious potential.

Conclusions

Adolescent SRH in Iran should be firmly established as a priority for government leaders and policymakers. They should try to provide those services that are consistent with the community's cultural and religious values for adolescent girls.
An extended optimal velocity difference model in a cooperative driving system
Authors: Cao Jinliang , Shi Zhongke , Zhou Jie
Published: September 2014

An extended optimal velocity (OV) difference model is proposed in a cooperative driving system by considering multiple OV differences. The stability condition of the proposed model is obtained by applying the linear stability theory. The results show that the increase in number of cars that precede and their OV differences lead to the more stable traffic flow. The Burgers, Korteweg–de Vries (KdV) and modified Korteweg–de Vries (mKdV) equations are derived to describe the density waves in the stable, metastable and unstable regions, respectively. To verify these theoretical results, the numerical simulation is carried out. The theoretical and numerical results show that the stabilization of traffic flow is enhanced by considering multiple OV differences. The traffic jams can be suppressed by taking more information of cars ahead.
Salvianolic Acid A Prevents the Pathological Progression of Hepatic Fibrosis in High-Fat Diet-Fed and Streptozotocin-Induced Diabetic Rats
Authors: Qiang Guifen , Yang Xiuying , Xuan Qi , Shi Lili , Zhang Hengai , Chen Bainian , Li Xiaoxiu , Zu Mian , Zhou Dan , Guo Jing , Yang Haiguang , Zhang Li , Du Guanhua
Published: September 2014

Type 2 diabetes patients have an increased risk of developing hepatic fibrosis. Salvianolic acid A (SalA) has been reported to be a strong polyphenolic anti-oxidant and free radical scavenger. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the effect of SalA on the pathological progression of hepatic fibrosis in high-fat diet (HFD)-fed and streptozotocin (STZ)-induced diabetic rats and to clarify the underlying mechanisms. Type 2 diabetic animal model with hepatic fibrosis was developed by a high-sucrose, HFD and low-dose STZ injection (i.p.). Diabetic rats were randomly divided into SalA group (0.3 mg/kg/day) and diabetic control groups fed with a HFD. After administration for four months, SalA reversed the hyperlipidemia and reduced hepatic triglyceride (TG). Hematoxylin–Eosin (HE) and Picro acid-Sirius red staining results indicated that SalA significantly alleviated the lesions of hepatic steatosis and fibrosis, with the reduction of type I and III collagens. The expression of α-smooth-muscle-actin (α-SMA) and transforming growth factor β1 (TGF-β1) in the liver were markedly down-regulated by SalA treatment. TUNEL staining showed that SalA reduced apoptosis in hepatocytes. In addition, SalA improved hepatic mitochondrial respiratory function in diabetic rats. Taken together, these findings demonstrated that SalA could prevent the pathological progression of hepatic fibrosis in HFD-fed and STZ-induced diabetic rats. The underlying mechanisms may be involved in reducing oxidative stress, suppressing α-SMA and TGF-β1 expression, as well as exerting anti-apoptotic and mitochondria-protective effects.
A systematic study of finite BRST-BFV transformations in generalized Hamiltonian formalism
Authors: Batalin Igor A. , Lavrov Peter M. , Tyutin Igor V.
Published: September 2014

We study systematically finite BRST-BFV transformations in the generalized Hamiltonian formalism. We present explicitly their Jacobians and the form of a solution to the compensation equation determining the functional field dependence of finite Fermionic parameters, necessary to generate an arbitrary finite change of gauge-fixing functions in the path integral.
A Novel Hybrid Multi-Objective Population Migration Algorithm
Authors: Ouyang Aijia , Li Kenli , Fei Xiongwei , Zhou Xu , Duan Mingxing
Published: September 2014

This paper presents a multi-objective co-evolutionary population migration algorithm based on Good Point Set (GPSMCPMA) for multi-objective optimization problems (MOP) in view of the characteristics of MOPs. The algorithm introduces the theory of good point set (GPS) and dynamic mutation operator (DMO) and adopts the entire population co-evolutionary migration, based on the concept of Pareto nondomination and global best experience and guidance. The performance of the algorithm is tested through standard multi-objective functions. The experimental results show that the proposed algorithm performs much better in the convergence, diversity and solution distribution than SPEA2, NSGA-II, MOPSO and MOMASEA. It is a fast and robust multi-objective evolutionary algorithm (MOEA) and is applicable to other MOPs.
MODELING OF INDUCTION MACHINES WITH AND WITHOUT CROSS-SATURATION
Authors: WALID EZZINE , HABIB REHAOULIA
Published: September 2014

This paper deals with two methods of including magnetic saturation in induction machines d–q equations. The first one, based on the main flux saturation, is characterized by the well-known phenomenon called cross-saturation. The second avoids such phenomenon consisting of magnetic coupling between orthogonal axes d and q. It was proven that, if the nonlinear static and dynamic machine inductances are suitably modeled, both methods give exactly the same results whatever the mode of operation motor or generator. As unusual, comparison between models shows that the second method without d–q cross-coupling is the advantageous and thus advised.
Compliance Control and Human–Robot Interaction: Part 1 — Survey
Authors: Khan Said G. , Herrmann Guido , Al Grafi Mubarak , Pipe Tony , Melhuish Chris
Published: September 2014

Compliance control is highly relevant to human safety in human–robot interaction (HRI). This paper presents a review of various compliance control techniques. The paper is aimed to provide a good background knowledge for new researchers and highlight the current hot issues in compliance control research. Active compliance, passive compliance, adaptive and reinforcement learning-based compliance control techniques are discussed. This paper provides a comprehensive literature survey of compliance control keeping in view physical human robot interaction (pHRI) e.g., passing an object, such as a cup, between a human and a robot. Compliance control may eventually provide an immediate and effective layer of safety by avoiding pushing, pulling or clamping in pHRI. Emerging areas such as soft robotics, which exploit the deformability of biomaterial as well as hybrid approaches which combine active and passive compliance are also highlighted.
Regular positive solutions to p-Laplacian systems on unbounded domain
Authors: Ahammou Abdelaziz , Iskafi Khalid
Published: September 2014

This work aims to study the existence and the regularity of positive solutions to a p-Laplacian system with nonlinearities of growth conditions. We focus on positive ground-state solutions and we assume that the nonlinearities are controlled by general polynomial functions, and we use a variational method to apply the mountain pass theorem which guarantees the existence of a super-solution in the sense of Hernandez, then we construct some compact operator T and some invariant set K where we can use the Leray–Schauder fixed point theorem. By the end of this paper, we establish an [Formula: see text]-estimation which allows to derive a property of regularity for such positive solutions.
Translating Genomics for Precision Cancer Medicine
Authors: Sameek Roychowdhury , Chinnaiyan Arul M.
Published: September 2014

The Human Genome Project not only provided the essential reference map for the human genome but also stimulated the development of technology and analytic tools to process massive quantities of genomic data. As a result of this project, new technologies for DNA sequencing have improved in efficiency and cost by more than a millionfold over the past decade, and these technologies can now be routinely applied at a cost of less than $5,000 per genome. Although the application of these technologies in cancer genomics research has continued to contribute to basic discoveries, opportunities for translating them for individual patients have also emerged. This is especially important in clinical cancer research, where genetic alterations in a patient's tumor may be matched to molecularly targeted therapies. In this review, we discuss the integration of cancer genomics and clinical oncology and the opportunity to deliver precision cancer medicine.
The Diverse Genetic Landscape of Neurodevelopmental Disorders
Authors: Hu Wen F. , Chahrour Maria H. , Walsh Christopher A.
Published: September 2014

Advances in genetic tools and sequencing technology in the past few years have vastly expanded our understanding of the genetics of neurodevelopmental disorders. Recent high-throughput sequencing analyses of structural brain malformations, cognitive and neuropsychiatric disorders, and localized cortical dysplasias have uncovered a diverse genetic landscape beyond classic Mendelian patterns of inheritance. The underlying genetic causes of neurodevelopmental disorders implicate numerous cell biological pathways critical for normal brain development.
Disorders of Cholesterol Metabolism and Their Unanticipated Convergent Mechanisms of Disease
Authors: Platt Frances M. , Wassif Christopher , Colaco Alexandria , Dardis Andrea , Lloyd-Evans Emyr , Bembi Bruno , Porter Forbes D.
Published: September 2014

Cholesterol plays a key role in many cellular processes, and is generated by cells through de novo biosynthesis or acquired from exogenous sources through the uptake of low-density lipoproteins. Cholesterol biosynthesis is a complex, multienzyme-catalyzed pathway involving a series of sequentially acting enzymes. Inherited defects in genes encoding cholesterol biosynthetic enzymes or other regulators of cholesterol homeostasis result in severe metabolic diseases, many of which are rare in the general population and currently without effective therapy. Historically, these diseases have been viewed as discrete disorders, each with its own genetic cause and distinct pathogenic cascades that lead to its specific clinical features. However, studies have recently shown that three of these diseases have an unanticipated mechanistic convergence. This surprising finding is not only shedding light on details of cellular cholesterol homeostasis but also suggesting novel approaches to therapy.
Inducible brown adipocytes in subcutaneous inguinal white fat: the role of continuous sympathetic stimulation
Authors: Contreras G. Andres , Lee Yun-Hee , Mottillo Emilio P. , Granneman James G.
Published: September 2014

Brown adipocytes (BA) generate heat in response to sympathetic activation and are the main site of nonshivering thermogenesis in mammals. Although most BA are located in classic brown adipose tissue depots, BA are also abundant in the inguinal white adipose tissue (iWAT) before weaning. The number of BA is correlated with the density of sympathetic innervation in iWAT; however, the role of continuous sympathetic tone in the establishment and maintenance of BA in WAT has not been investigated. BA marker expression in iWAT was abundant in weaning mice but was greatly reduced by 8 wk of age. Nonetheless, BA phenotype could be rapidly reinstated by acute β3-adrenergic stimulation with CL-316,243 (CL). Genetic tagging of adipocytes with adiponectin-CreERT2demonstrated that CL reinstates uncoupling protein 1 (UCP1) expression in adipocytes that were present before weaning. Chronic surgical denervation dramatically reduced the ability of CL to induce the expression of UCP1 and other BA markers in the tissue as a whole, and this loss of responsiveness was prevented by concurrent treatment with CL. These results indicate that ongoing sympathetic activity is critical to preserve the ability of iWAT fat cells to express a BA phenotype upon adrenergic stimulation.
Alterations in the profile of blood neutrophil membrane receptors caused by in vivo adrenocorticotrophic hormone actions
Authors: Machado Isabel Daufenback , Santin José Roberto , Drewes Carine Cristiane , Gil Cristiane Damas , Oliani Sonia Maria , Perretti Mauro , Farsky Sandra Helena Poliselli
Published: September 2014

Elevated levels of adrenocorticotrophic hormone (ACTH) mobilize granulocytes from bone marrow into the blood, although these neutrophils are refractory to a full migratory response into inflamed tissues. Here, we investigated the dependence of glucocorticoid receptor activation and glucocorticoid-regulated protein annexin A1 (ANXA1) on ACTH-induced neutrophilia and the phenotype of blood neutrophil after ACTH injection, focusing on adhesion molecule expressions and locomotion properties. ACTH injection (5 μg ip, 4 h) induced neutrophilia in wild-type (WT) mice and did not alter the elevated numbers of neutrophils in RU-38486 (RU)-pretreated or ANXA1−/−mice injected with ACTH. Neutrophils from WT ACTH-treated mice presented higher expression of Ly6G+ANXA1high, CD18high, CD62Lhigh, CD49high, CXCR4high, and formyl-peptide receptor 1 (FPR1low) than those observed in RU-pretreated or ANXA1−/−mice. The membrane phenotype of neutrophils collected from WT ACTH-treated mice was paralleled by elevated fractions of rolling and adherent leukocytes to the cremaster postcapillary venules together with impaired neutrophil migration into inflamed air pouches in vivo and in vitro reduced formyl-methionyl-leucyl-phenylalanine (fMLP) or stromal-derived factor-1 (SDF-1α)-induced chemotaxis. In an 18-h senescence protocol, neutrophils from WT ACTH-treated mice had a higher proportion of ANXAVlow/CXCR4low, and they were less phagocytosed by peritoneal macrophages. We conclude that alterations on HPA axis affect the pattern of membrane receptors in circulating neutrophils, which may lead to different neutrophil phenotypes in the blood. Moreover, ACTH actions render circulating neutrophils to a phenotype with early reactivity, such as in vivo leukocyte-endothelial interactions, but with impaired locomotion and clearance.
Study of Microvessel Density and the Expression of Vascular Endothelial Growth Factors in Adrenal Gland Pheochromocytomas
Authors: Białas Magdalena , Dyduch Grzegorz , Dudała Joanna , Bereza-Buziak Monika , Hubalewska-Dydejczyk Alicja , Budzyński Andrzej , Okoń Krzysztof
Published: September 2014

Angiogenesis (neoangiogenesis), a process of neovascularization, is an essential step for local tumor growth and distant metastasis formation. We have analysed angiogenesis status: vascular architecture, microvessel density, and vascular endothelial growth factors expression in 62 adrenal pheochromocytomas: 57 benign and 5 malignant. Immunohistochemical evaluation revealed that vascular architecture and vessel density are different in the central and subcapsular areas of the tumor. Furthermore, we have observed a strong correlation between number of macrophages and microvessel density in the central and subcapsular areas of the tumor and between the expression of VEGF-A in tumor cells and microvessel density in central and subcapsular areas of the tumor. Secondary changes in these tumors influence the results and both vascular architecture and microvessel density are markedly disturbed by hemorrhagic and cystic changes in pheochromocytomas. These changes are partially caused by laparoscopic operation technique. However, no differences in vascular parameters were found between pheochromocytomas with benign and malignant clinical behavior. Our observation showed that analysis of angiogenesis, as a single feature, does not help in differentiating malignant and benign pheochromocytomas and has no independent prognostic significance. On the other hand, high microvessel density in pheochromocytoma is a promising factor for antiangiogenic therapy in malignant cases.
Ecto-nucleotidases Activities in the Contents of Ovarian Endometriomas: Potential Biomarkers of Endometriosis
Authors: Texidó Laura , Romero Claudia , Vidal August , García-Valero José , Fernández Montoli M. Eulalia , Baixeras Núria , Condom Enric , Ponce Jordi , García-Tejedor Amparo , Martín-Satué Mireia
Published: September 2014

Endometriosis, defined as the growth of endometrial tissue outside the uterus, is a common gynecologic condition affecting millions of women worldwide. It is an inflammatory, estrogen-dependent complex disorder, with broad symptomatic variability, pelvic pain, and infertility being the main characteristics. Ovarian endometriomas are frequently developed in women with endometriosis. Late diagnosis is one of the main problems of endometriosis; thus, it is important to identify biomarkers for early diagnosis. The aim of the present work is to evaluate the ecto-nucleotidases activities in the contents of endometriomas. These enzymes, through the regulation of extracellular ATP and adenosine levels, are key enzymes in inflammatory processes, and their expression has been previously characterized in human endometrium. To achieve our objective, the echo-guided aspirated fluids of endometriomas were analyzed by evaluating the ecto-nucleotidases activities and compared with simple cysts. Our results show that enzyme activities are quantifiable in the ovarian cysts aspirates and that endometriomas show significantly higher ecto-nucleotidases activities than simple cysts (5.5-fold increase for ATPase and 20-fold for ADPase), thus being possible candidates for new endometriosis biomarkers. Moreover, we demonstrate the presence of ecto-nucleotidases bearing exosomes in these fluids. These results add up to the knowledge of the physiopathologic mechanisms underlying endometriosis and, open up a promising new field of study.
Importance of “Process Evaluation” in Audiological Rehabilitation: Examples from Studies on Hearing Impairment
Authors: Manchaiah Vinaya , Danermark Berth , Rönnberg Jerker , Lunner Thomas
Published: September 2014

The main focus of this paper is to discuss the importance of “evaluating the process of change” (i.e., process evaluation) in people with disability by studying their lived experiences. Detailed discussion is made about “why and how to investigate the process of change in people with disability?” and some specific examples are provided from studies on patient journey of persons with hearing impairment (PHI) and their communication partners (CPs). In addition, methodological aspects in process evaluation are discussed in relation to various metatheoretical perspectives. The discussion has been supplemented with relevant literature. The healthcare practice and disability research in general are dominated by the use of outcome measures. Even though the values of outcome measures are not questioned, there seems to be a little focus on understanding the process of change over time in relation to health and disability. We suggest that the process evaluation has an additional temporal dimension and has applications in both clinical practice and research in relation to health and disability.
New Interpretations of Cohen’s Kappa
Authors: Warrens Matthijs J.
Published: September 2014

Cohen’s kappa is a widely used association coefficient for summarizing interrater agreement on a nominal scale. Kappa reduces the ratings of the two observers to a single number. With three or more categories it is more informative to summarize the ratings by category coefficients that describe the information for each category separately. Examples of category coefficients are the sensitivity or specificity of a category or the Bloch-Kraemer weighted kappa. However, in many research studies one is often only interested in a single overall number that roughly summarizes the agreement. It is shown that both the overall observed agreement and Cohen’s kappa are weighted averages of various category coefficients and thus can be used to summarize these category coefficients.
Decreased Fast Ripples in the Hippocampus of Rats with Spontaneous Recurrent Seizures Treated with Carbenoxolone and Quinine
Authors: Ventura-Mejía Consuelo , Medina-Ceja Laura
Published: September 2014

Background. In models of temporal lobe epilepsy and in patients with this pathology, high frequency oscillations called fast ripples (FRs, 250–600 Hz) can be observed. FRs are considered potential biomarkers for epilepsy and, in the light of manyin vitroandin silicostudies, we thought that electrical synapses mediated by gap junctions might possibly modulate FRsin vivo.Methods. Animals with spontaneous recurrent seizures induced by pilocarpine administration were implanted with movable microelectrodes in the right anterior and posterior hippocampus to evaluate the effects of gap junction blockers administered in the entorhinal cortex. The effects of carbenoxolone (50 nmoles) and quinine (35 pmoles) on the mean number of spontaneous FR events (occurrence of FRs), as well as on the mean number of oscillation cycles per FR event and their frequency, were assessed using a specific algorithm to analyze FRs in intracranial EEG recordings.Results. We found that these gap junction blockers decreased the mean number of FRs and the mean number of oscillation cycles per FR event in the hippocampus, both during and at different times after carbenoxolone and quinine administration.Conclusion. These data suggest that FRs may be modulated by gap junctions, although additional experimentsin vivowill be necessary to determine the precise role of gap junctions in this pathological activity associated with epileptogenesis.
A Unified Approach to Some Classes of Nonlinear Integral Equations
Authors: Ashirbayev Nurgali K. , Banaś Józef , Bekmoldayeva Raina
Published: September 2014

We are going to discuss some important classes of nonlinear integral equations such as integral equations of Volterra-Chandrasekhar type, quadratic integral equations of fractional orders, nonlinear integral equations of Volterra-Wiener-Hopf type, and nonlinear integral equations of Erdélyi-Kober type. Those integral equations play very significant role in applications to the description of numerous real world events. Our aim is to show that the mentioned integral equations can be treated from the view point of nonlinear Volterra-Stieltjes integral equations. The Riemann-Stieltjes integral appearing in those integral equations is generated by a function of two variables. The choice of a suitable generating function enables us to obtain various kinds of integral equations. Some results concerning nonlinear Volterra-Stieltjes integral equations in several variables will be also discussed.
Management of Non-Vitamin K Antagonist Oral Anticoagulants in the Perioperative Setting
Authors: Dincq Anne-Sophie , Lessire Sarah , Douxfils Jonathan , Dogné Jean-Michel , Gourdin Maximilien , Mullier François
Published: September 2014

The field of oral anticoagulation has evolved with the arrival of non-vitamin K antagonist oral anticoagulants (NOACs) including an anti-IIa agent (dabigatran etexilate) and anti-Xa agents (rivaroxaban and apixaban). The main specificities of these drugs are predictable pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics but special attention should be paid in the elderly, in case of renal dysfunction and in case of emergency. In addition, their perioperative management is challenging, especially with the absence of specific antidotes. Effectively, periods of interruption before surgery or invasive procedures depend on half-life and keeping a permanent balance between bleeding and thromboembolic risks. In addition, few data regarding the link between plasma concentrations and their effects are provided. Routine laboratory tests are altered by NOACs and quantitative measurements are not widely performed. This paper provides a review on the management of NOACs in the perioperative setting, including the estimation of the bleeding and thrombotic risk, the periods of interruption, the indication of heparin bridging, the usefulness of laboratory tests before surgery or invasive procedure, and the time of resuming. Most data are based on expert’s opinions.
Fusion Method for Remote Sensing Image Based on Fuzzy Integral
Authors: Zhou Hui , Gao Hongmin
Published: September 2014

This paper presents a kind of image fusion method based on fuzzy integral, integrated spectral information, and 2 single factor indexes of spatial resolution in order to greatly retain spectral information and spatial resolution information in fusion of multispectral and high-resolution remote sensing images. Firstly, wavelet decomposition is carried out to two images, respectively, to obtain wavelet decomposition coefficients of the two image and keep coefficient of low frequency of multispectral image, and then optimized fusion is carried out to high frequency part of the two images based on weighting coefficient to generate new fusion image. Finally, evaluation is carried out to the image after fusion with introduction of evaluation indexes of correlation coefficient, mean value of image, standard deviation, distortion degree, information entropy, and so forth. The test results show that this method integrated multispectral information and space high-resolution information in a better way, and it is an effective fusion method of remote sensing image.
Hearing Preservation in Cochlear Implant Surgery
Authors: Miranda Priscila Carvalho , Sampaio André Luiz Lopes , Lopes Rafaela Aquino Fernandes , Ramos Venosa Alessandra , Oliveira Carlos Augusto Costa Pires de
Published: September 2014

In the past, it was thought that hearing loss patients with residual low-frequency hearing would not be good candidates for cochlear implantation since insertion was expected to induce inner ear trauma. Recent advances in electrode design and surgical techniques have made the preservation of residual low-frequency hearing achievable and desirable. The importance of preserving residual low-frequency hearing cannot be underestimated in light of the added benefit of hearing in noisy atmospheres and in music quality. The concept of electrical and acoustic stimulation involves electrically stimulating the nonfunctional, high-frequency region of the cochlea with a cochlear implant and applying a hearing aid in the low-frequency range. The principle of preserving low-frequency hearing by a “soft surgery” cochlear implantation could also be useful to the population of children who might profit from regenerative hair cell therapy in the future. Main aspects of low-frequency hearing preservation surgery are discussed in this review: its brief history, electrode design, principles and advantages of electric-acoustic stimulation, surgical technique, and further implications of this new treatment possibility for hearing impaired patients.
Mental Health Services for Individuals with High Functioning Autism Spectrum Disorder
Authors: Lake Johanna K. , Perry Andrea , Lunsky Yona
Published: September 2014

Adolescents and adults with an autism spectrum disorder (ASD) who do not have an intellectual impairment or disability (ID), described here as individuals with high-functioning autism spectrum disorder (HFASD), represent a complex and underserved psychiatric population. While there is an emerging literature on the mental health needs of children with ASD with normal intelligence, we know less about these issues in adults. Of the few studies of adolescents and adults with HFASD completed to date, findings suggest that they face a multitude of cooccurring psychiatric (e.g., anxiety, depression), psychosocial, and functional issues, all of which occur in addition to their ASD symptomatology. Despite this, traditional mental health services and supports are falling short of meeting the needs of these adults. This review highlights the service needs and the corresponding gaps in care for this population. It also provides an overview of the literature on psychiatric risk factors, identifies areas requiring further study, and makes recommendations for how existing mental health services could include adults with HFASD.
Robust NonfragileH∞Filtering for Uncertain T-S Fuzzy Systems with Interval Delay: A New Delay Partitioning Approach
Authors: Xia Xianzhong , Li Renfa , An Jiyao
Published: September 2014

This paper investigates the problem of robust nonfragile fuzzyH∞filtering for uncertain Takagi-Sugeno (T-S) fuzzy systems with interval time-varying delays. Attention is focused on the design of a filter such that the filtering error system preserves a prescribedH∞performance, where the filter to be designed is assumed to have gain perturbations. By developing a delay decomposition approach, both lower and upper bound information of the delayed plant states can be taken into full consideration; the proposed delay-fractional-dependent stability condition for the filter error systems is obtained based on the direct Lyapunov method allied with an appropriate and variable Lyapunov-Krasovskii functional choice and with tighter upper bound of some integral terms in the derivation process. Then, a new robust nonfragile fuzzyH∞filter scheme is proposed, and a sufficient condition for the existence of such a filter is established in terms of linear matrix inequalities (LMIs). Finally, some numerical examples are utilized to demonstrate the effectiveness and reduced conservatism of the proposed approach.
Tracheal Penetration and Tracheoesophageal Fistula Caused by an Esophageal Self-Expanding Metallic Stent
Authors: Madan Karan , Venuthurimilli Arun , Ahuja Vineet , Hadda Vijay , Mohan Anant , Guleria Randeep
Published: September 2014

Tracheal penetration of esophageal self-expanding metallic stents (SEMS) with/without tracheoesophageal fistula (TEF) formation is a rare occurrence. We report the case of a 66-year-old female patient with advanced esophageal squamous cell carcinoma who had undergone palliative esophageal stenting on three occasions for recurrent esophageal stent obstruction. On evaluation of symptoms of breathing difficulty and aspiration following third esophageal stent placement, tracheal erosion and TEF formation due to the tracheal penetration by esophageal stent were diagnosed. The patient was successfully managed by covered tracheal SEMS placement under flexible bronchoscopy.
Determining the Best Treatment for Coronal Angular Deformity of the Knee Joint in Growing Children: A Decision Analysis
Authors: Sung Ki Hyuk , Chung Chin Youb , Lee Kyoung Min , Lee Seung Yeol , Choi In Ho , Cho Tae-Joon , Yoo Won Joon , Park Moon Seok
Published: September 2014

This study aimed to determine the best treatment modality for coronal angular deformity of the knee joint in growing children using decision analysis. A decision tree was created to evaluate 3 treatment modalities for coronal angular deformity in growing children: temporary hemiepiphysiodesis using staples, percutaneous screws, or a tension band plate. A decision analysis model was constructed containing the final outcome score, probability of metal failure, and incomplete correction of deformity. The final outcome was defined as health-related quality of life and was used as a utility in the decision tree. The probabilities associated with each case were obtained by literature review, and health-related quality of life was evaluated by a questionnaire completed by 25 pediatric orthopedic experts. Our decision analysis model favored temporary hemiepiphysiodesis using a tension band plate over temporary hemiepiphysiodesis using percutaneous screws or stapling, with utilities of 0.969, 0.957, and 0.962, respectively. One-way sensitivity analysis showed that hemiepiphysiodesis using a tension band plate was better than temporary hemiepiphysiodesis using percutaneous screws, when the overall complication rate of hemiepiphysiodesis using a tension band plate was lower than 15.7%. Two-way sensitivity analysis showed that hemiepiphysiodesis using a tension band plate was more beneficial than temporary hemiepiphysiodesis using percutaneous screws.
Fair Optimization and Networks: A Survey
Authors: Ogryczak Wlodzimierz , Luss Hanan , Pióro Michał , Nace Dritan , Tomaszewski Artur
Published: September 2014

Optimization models related to designing and operating complex systems are mainly focused on some efficiency metrics such as response time, queue length, throughput, and cost. However, in systems which serve many entities there is also a need for respecting fairness: each system entity ought to be provided with an adequate share of the system’s services. Still, due to system operations-dependant constraints, fair treatment of the entities does not directly imply that each of them is assigned equal amount of the services. That leads to concepts of fair optimization expressed by the equitable models that represent inequality averse optimization rather than strict inequality minimization; a particular widely applied example of that concept is the so-called lexicographic maximin optimization (max-min fairness). The fair optimization methodology delivers a variety of techniques to generate fair and efficient solutions. This paper reviews fair optimization models and methods applied to systems that are based on some kind of network of connections and dependencies, especially, fair optimization methods for the location problems and for the resource allocation problems in communication networks.
Unconventional Use of Intense Pulsed Light
Authors: Piccolo D. , Di Marcantonio D. , Crisman G. , Cannarozzo G. , Sannino M. , Chiricozzi A. , Chimenti S.
Published: September 2014

According to the literature, intense pulsed light (IPL) represents a versatile tool in the treatment of some dermatological conditions (i.e., pigmentation disorders, hair removal, and acne), due to its wide range of wavelengths. The authors herein report on 58 unconventional but effective uses of IPL in several cutaneous diseases, such as rosacea (10 cases), port-wine stain (PWS) (10 cases), disseminated porokeratosis (10 cases), pilonidal cyst (3 cases), seborrheic keratosis (10 cases), hypertrophic scar (5 cases) and keloid scar (5 cases), Becker’s nevus (2 cases), hidradenitis suppurativa (2 cases), and sarcoidosis (1 case). Our results should suggest that IPL could represent a valid therapeutic support and option by providing excellent outcomes and low side effects, even though it should be underlined that the use and the effectiveness of IPL are strongly related to the operator’s experience (acquired by attempting at least one specific course on the use of IPL and one-year experience in a specialized centre). Moreover, the daily use of these devices will surely increase clinical experience and provide new information, thus enhancing long-term results and improving IPL effectiveness.
Whole Body Vibration Exercises and the Improvement of the Flexibility in Patient with Metabolic Syndrome
Authors: Sá-Caputo Danúbia da Cunha , Ronikeili-Costa Pedro , Carvalho-Lima Rafaelle Pacheco , Bernardo Luciana Camargo , Bravo-Monteiro Milena Oliveira , Costa Rebeca , Moraes-Silva Janaina de , Paiva Dulciane Nunes , Machado Christiano Bittencourt , Mantilla-Giehl Paula , Arnobio Adriano , Marin Pedro Jesus , Bernardo-Filho Mario
Published: September 2014

Vibrations produced in oscillating/vibratory platform generate whole body vibration (WBV) exercises, which are important in sports, as well as in treating diseases, promoting rehabilitation, and improving the quality of life. WBV exercises relevantly increase the muscle strength, muscle power, and the bone mineral density, as well as improving the postural control, the balance, and the gait. An important number of publications are found in the PubMed database with the keyword “flexibility” and eight of the analyzed papers involving WBV and flexibility reached a level of evidence II. The biggest distance between the third finger of the hand to the floor (DBTFF) of a patient with metabolic syndrome (MS) was found before the first session and was considered to be 100%. The percentages to the other measurements in the different sessions were determined to be related to the 100%. It is possible to see an immediate improvement after each session with a decrease of the %DBTFF. As the presence of MS is associated with poorer physical performance, a simple and safe protocol using WBV exercises promoted an improvement of the flexibility in a patient with MS.
Saccharin Sulfonamides as Inhibitors of Carbonic Anhydrases I, II, VII, XII, and XIII
Authors: Morkūnaitė Vaida , Baranauskienė Lina , Zubrienė Asta , Kairys Visvaldas , Ivanova Jekaterina , Trapencieris Pēteris , Matulis Daumantas
Published: September 2014

A series of modified saccharin sulfonamides have been designed as carbonic anhydrase (CA) inhibitors and synthesized. Their binding to CA isoforms I, II, VII, XII, and XIII was measured by the fluorescent thermal shift assay (FTSA) and isothermal titration calorimetry (ITC). Saccharin bound the CAs weakly, exhibiting the affinities of 1–10 mM for four CAs except CA I where binding could not be detected. Several sulfonamide-bearing saccharines exhibited strong affinities of 1–10 nM towards particular CA isoforms. The functional group binding Gibbs free energy additivity maps are presented which may provide insights into the design of compounds with increased affinity towards selected CAs.
Check This Word Out! Exploring the Factors That Affect Students’ Vocabulary Learning Using Smartphones via Partial Least Squares
Authors: Alhabahba Mohammad Madallh , Mahfoodh Omer Hassan Ali , Pandian Ambigapathy , Mohammad Yazan Mdala , Ahmed Enas Waleed , Albdour Ali , Al Bazar Hussein
Published: September 2014

A rigorous understanding of the use of Smartphones for foreign language vocabulary acquisition is crucial. Employing the technology acceptance model, this study aims to investigate students’ behavioural factors affecting Saudi students’ attitudes towards employing Smartphones for foreign vocabulary acquisition. Two hundred and seventy-three students studying in a preparatory year programme were surveyed. SmartPLS was employed to analyse the data obtained from the study’s sample. The results revealed that perceived usefulness and attitude proved to be significantly and positively related to vocabulary development. In addition, perceived usefulness and perceived ease of use proved to be significant predictors of students’ attitudes towards the use of Smartphone for vocabulary learning. However, the study showed that the relationship between perceived ease of use and vocabulary development is not significant. Thus, publishers of dictionaries may find it necessary to take into account the important role played by the design of dictionaries interfaces in facilitating the use of dictionaries in Smartphones. Furthermore, teachers and educators are encouraged to employ creative activities (e.g., word guessing games) that invest students’ use of Smartphones to learn vocabularies. Using Smartphones in learning improves interaction among students and teachers. Discussion and conclusions are also provided.
Minocycline Enhances the Effectiveness of Nociceptin/Orphanin FQ during Neuropathic Pain
Authors: Popiolek-Barczyk Katarzyna , Rojewska Ewelina , Jurga Agnieszka M. , Makuch Wioletta , Zador Ferenz , Borsodi Anna , Piotrowska Anna , Przewlocka Barbara , Mika Joanna
Published: September 2014

Nociceptin/orphanin FQ (N/OFQ) antinociception, which is mediated selectively by the N/OFQ peptide receptor (NOP), was demonstrated in pain models. In this study, we determine the role of activated microglia on the analgesic effects of N/OFQ in a rat model of neuropathic pain induced by chronic constriction injury (CCI) to the sciatic nerve. Repeated 7-day administration of minocycline (30 mg/kg i.p.), a drug that affects microglial activation, significantly reduced pain in CCI-exposed rats and it potentiates the analgesic effects of administered N/OFQ (2.5–5 μg i.t.). Minocycline also downregulates the nerve injury-induced upregulation of NOP protein in the dorsal lumbar spinal cord. Ourin vitrostudy showed that minocycline reducedNOPmRNA, but not protein, level in rat primary microglial cell cultures. In [35S]GTPγS binding assays we have shown that minocycline increases the spinal N/OFQ-stimulated NOP signaling. We suggest that the modulation of the N/OFQ system by minocycline is due to the potentiation of its neuronal antinociceptive activity and weakening of the microglial cell activation. This effect is beneficial for pain relief, and these results suggest new targets for the development of drugs that are effective against neuropathic pain.