bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Lower-Extremity Force Decrements Identify Early Mobility Decline Among Community-Dwelling Older Adults
Authors: Marko Moshe , Neville Christopher G. , Prince Mark A. , Ploutz-Snyder Lori L.
Published: May 2012

Background

Many apparently independent older adults modify daily tasks. Task modifications strongly predict future mobility disability. Clinically intuitive, easily measured “biomarkers” associated with task modifications would offer quantifiable treatment targets for prevention of age-related functional limitations.

Objective

The objective of the study was to examine lower-extremity muscle strength deficits and functionally relevant cutoff points associated with daily task modifications in community dwelling older adults living independently.

Design

This was a cross-sectional observational study.

Methods

Fifty-three participants (mean age=76.4 years, SD=5.2) were tested for task modifications and leg strength. Task modifications were assessed using a previously described tool (summary task modification score). Twenty-six of the participants were classified as task modifiers (TM group), and 27 participants were classified as non–task modifiers (NTM group). A net antigravity leg force in the sagittal plane (NETforce) was calculated by summing the normalized isometric and isokinetic torques from the hip extensors, knee extensors, and ankle plantar flexors.

Results

Compared with the NTM group, the TM group exhibited 30.0% and 33.5% reduction in lower-extremity isometric and isokinetic NETforces, respectively. Isometric and isokinetic NETforce cutoff points for task modifications were ≤4.24 and 2.77 N·m/kg body weight, respectively. The isometric and isokinetic models both yielded sensitivity and specificity values of 74.1% and 80.8%, respectively (positive likelihood ratio=3.852, 95% confidence interval=1.699–8.735; negative likelihood ratio=0.321, 95% confidence interval=0.167–0.618). Isometric and isokinetic NETforces were significantly associated with task modifications (odds ratio=2.50 and 2.42, respectively).

Limitations

The cross-sectional design of this study does not allow for a test of causal relationships. This study used a modest yet adequate sample size that may limit generalization of the results.

Conclusions

Isometric and isokinetic NETforce cutoff points provide quantifiable biomarkers that discriminate community-dwelling older adults who modify daily tasks from those who do not.
Prognostic Factors for Recovery in Chronic Nonspecific Low Back Pain: A Systematic Review
Authors: Verkerk Karin , Luijsterburg Pim A.J. , Miedema Harard S. , Pool-Goudzwaard Annelies , Koes Bart W.
Published: May 2012

Background

Few data are available on predictors for a favorable outcome in patients with chronic nonspecific low back pain (CNLBP).

Purpose

The aim of this study was to assess prognostic factors for pain intensity, disability, return to work, quality of life, and global perceived effect in patients with CNLBP at short-term (≤6 months) and long-term (>6 months) follow-up.

Data Sources

Relevant studies evaluating the prognosis of CNLBP were searched in PubMed, CINAHL, and EMBASE (through March 2010).

Study Selection

Articles with all types of study designs were included. Inclusion criteria were: participants were patients with CNLBP (≥12 weeks' duration), participants were older than 18 years of age, and the study was related to prognostic factors for recovery. Fourteen studies met the inclusion criteria.

Data Extraction

Two reviewers extracted the data and details of each study.

Data Synthesis

A qualitative analysis using “level of evidence” was performed for all included studies. Data were summarized in tables and critically appraised.

Limitations

The results of the studies reviewed were limited by their methodological weaknesses.

Conclusions

At short-term follow-up, no association was found for the factors of age and sex with the outcomes of pain intensity and disability. At long-term follow-up, smoking had the same result. At long-term follow-up, pain intensity and fear of movement had no association with disability. At short-term follow-up, conflicting evidence was found for the association between the outcomes pain intensity and disability and the factor of fear of movement. At long-term follow-up, conflicting evidence was found for the factors of age, sex, and physical job demands. At long-term follow-up, conflicting evidence also was found for the association between return to work and age, sex, and activities of daily living. At baseline, there was limited evidence of a positive influence of lower pain intensity and physical job demands on return to work. No high-quality studies were found for the outcomes of quality of life and global perceived effect.
Using penetration depth for phase matching in photonic crystal waveguides
Authors: Goldin S. Y. , Meliach G. , Arieli Y. , Sfez B.
Published: May 2012

A new method of design for the phase-matching in waveguides is suggested. The approach is based on utilizing the concept of the penetration depth of light into the waveguide walls. The lateral components of wavevectors are employed to adjust the phase-matching condition in the propagation direction. The method is demonstrated in two systems: one using single and the other using double photonic-crystal mirrors.
Fluorescence quenching and photobleaching in Au/Rh6G nanoassemblies: impact of competition between radiative and non-radiative decay
Authors: Dong L. , Ye F. , Hu J. , Popov S. , Friberg A. T. , Muhammed M.
Published: May 2012

We report the study of fluorescence quenching from nanoassemblies formed by Rhodamine 6G and gold nanoparticles (Au NPs) of 2.6 nm radius. The presence of Au NPs induces long-term degradation of the photostability (photobleaching) of Rhodamine 6G used as a gain medium in a Fabry-Perot laser cavity. We found that the degradation gets profound when the Au NPs concentration is significantly increased. Calculation of the radiative rate and direct time-resolved measurement of the fluorescence decay indicates that both the decrease of radiative decay rate and increase of non-radiative decay rate are responsible for the fluorescence quenching and photostability degradation. An energy transfer from the dye molecules to gold nanoparticles is dominating within small distance between them and suppresses the quantum efficiency of Rhodamine 6G drastically. In a long time scale, the photobleaching rate was slowing down, and the laser output intensity reached a stabilized level which depends on the gold nanoparticles concentration.
An all fiber based Talbot self-imaging mirror device for phase-locking of a multi-fiber laser
Authors: Zhou R. , Zhan Q. , Powers P. E. , Ibarra-Escamilla B. , Haus J. W.
Published: May 2012

By propagating beamlets from a periodically placed array of single-mode fiber amplifiers in a large mode-are (LMA) fiber, we find that a self-image of the initial beamlets is formed at certain distances in the LMA fiber. A Talbot mirror fiber device (TMFD) based on this property is proposed for phase-locking of a multi-fiber laser. For this laser system, we investigate how the LMA fiber length variation; the fiber amplifier phase variation, amplitude variation, and displacement affect the self-image qualities and the coupling efficiency.
Minimally invasive decompression and stabilization for the management of thoracolumbar spine metastasis
Authors: Zairi Fahed , Arikat Ala , Allaoui Mohamed , Marinho Paulo , Assaker Richard
Published: May 2012

Object

Spinal metastasis with spinal cord involvement is a frequent complication in cancer patients. As the spinal compression frequently occurs ventrally, performing a simple posterior laminectomy alone is generally ineffective and dangerous. Many aggressive surgical strategies have been developed to improve outcomes for patients with metastatic spine disease. These strategies are associated with high morbidity and complication rates, especially in patients with numerous neoplasm-associated comorbidities, which can limit their indication in patients with a limited life expectancy. The authors performed a prospective evaluation of minimally invasive decompression and stabilization for the palliative management of symptomatic thoracolumbar spine metastasis.

Methods

Ten patients with metastasis to the thoracolumbar spine and neurological compromise underwent minimally invasive transpedicular vertebrectomy and spinal cord decompression through a tubular expandable retractor. Percutaneous stabilization was also systematically performed to ensure spinal stability.

Results

No complications during the procedure were reported. The mean operative duration was 170 minutes and the mean estimated blood loss was 400 ml. The postoperative course of all patients was uneventful, with the exception of 1 benign urinary tract infection. Eight patients (80%) improved at least 1 Frankel grade.

Conclusions

Minimally invasive treatment of thoracolumbar spine metastasis is a safe and effective palliative option in patients with limited life expectancy, to limit morbidity and preserve quality of life.
Understanding the Evolution of Mammalian Brain Structures; the Need for a (New) Cerebrotype Approach
Authors: Willemet Romain
Published: May 2012

The mammalian brain varies in size by a factor of 100,000 and is composed of anatomically and functionally distinct structures. Theoretically, the manner in which brain composition can evolve is limited, ranging from highly modular (“mosaic evolution”) to coordinated changes in brain structure size (“concerted evolution”) or anything between these two extremes. There is a debate about the relative importance of these distinct evolutionary trends. It is shown here that the presence of taxa-specific allometric relationships between brain structures makes a taxa-specific approach obligatory. In some taxa, the evolution of the size of brain structures follows a unique, coordinated pattern, which, in addition to other characteristics at different anatomical levels, defines what has been called here a “taxon cerebrotype”. In other taxa, no clear pattern is found, reflecting heterogeneity of the species’ lifestyles. These results suggest that the evolution of brain size and composition depends on the complex interplay between selection pressures and constraints that have changed constantly during mammalian evolution. Therefore the variability in brain composition between species should not be considered as deviations from the normal, concerted mammalian trend, but in taxa and species-specific versions of the mammalian brain. Because it forms homogenous groups of species within this complex “space” of constraints and selection pressures, the cerebrotype approach developed here could constitute an adequate level of analysis for evo-devo studies, and by extension, for a wide range of disciplines related to brain evolution.
Marine Biodiversity, Climate Change, and Governance of the Oceans
Authors: Craig Robin Kundis
Published: May 2012

Governance of marine biodiversity has long suffered from lack of adequate information about the ocean’s many species and ecosystems. Nevertheless, even as we are learning much more about the ocean’s biodiversity and the impacts to it from stressors such as overfishing, habitat destruction, and marine pollution, climate change is imposing new threats and exacerbating existing threats to marine species and ecosystems. Coastal nations could vastly improve their fragmented approaches to ocean governance in order to increase the protections for marine biodiversity in the climate change era. Specifically, three key governance improvements would include: (1) incorporation of marine spatial planning as a key organizing principle of marine governance; (2) working to increase the resilience of marine ecosystems be reducing or eliminating existing stressors on those ecosystems; and (3) anticipation of climate change’s future impacts on marine biodiversity through the use of anticipatory zoning and more precautionary regulation.
Probabilistic Method to Assess the Impact of Charging of Electric Vehicles on Distribution Grids
Authors: Valsera-Naranjo Eduardo , Sumper Andreas , Villafafila-Robles Roberto , Martínez-Vicente David
Published: May 2012

This paper describes a grid impact analysis of charging electric vehicles (EV) using charging curves with detailed battery modelling. A probabilistic method using Monte Carlo was applied to a typical Spanish distribution grid, also using mobility patterns of Barcelona. To carry out this analysis, firstly, an IEEE test system was adapted to a typical distribution grid configuration; secondly, the EV and its battery types were modeled taking into account the current vehicle market and the battery characteristics; and, finally, the recharge control strategies were taken into account. Once these main features were established, a statistical probabilistic model for the household electrical demand and for the EV charging parameters was determined. Finally, with these probabilistic models, the Monte Carlo analysis was performed within the established scenario in order to study the lines’ and the transformers’ loading levels. The results show that an accurate model for the battery gives a more precise estimation about the impact on the grid. Additionally, mobility patterns have been proved to be some of the most important key aspects for these type of studies.
Childhood and Adult Trauma Experiences of Incarcerated Persons and Their Relationship to Adult Behavioral Health Problems and Treatment
Authors: Wolff Nancy , Shi Jing
Published: May 2012

Rates of childhood and adult trauma are high among incarcerated persons. In addition to criminality, childhood trauma is associated with the risk for emotional disorders (e.g., depression and anxiety) and co-morbid conditions such as alcohol and drug abuse and antisocial behaviors in adulthood. This paper develops rates of childhood and adult trauma and examines the impact of age-of-onset and type-specific trauma on emotional problems and behavior for a sample of incarcerated males (N~4,000). Prevalence estimates for types of trauma were constructed by age at time of trauma, race and types of behavioral health treatment received while incarcerated. HLM models were used to explore the association between childhood and adult trauma and depression, anxiety, substance use, interpersonal problems, and aggression problems (each model estimated separately and controlling for age, gender, race, time incarcerated, and index offense). Rates of physical, sexual, and emotional trauma were higher in childhood than adulthood and ranged from 44.7% (physical trauma in childhood) to 4.5% (sexual trauma in adulthood). Trauma exposure was found to be strongly associated with a wide range of behavioral problems and clinical symptoms. Given the sheer numbers of incarcerated men and the strength of these associations, targeted intervention is critical.
Immobilization of Laccase for Oxidative Coupling of Trans-Resveratrol and Its Derivatives
Authors: Zhang Hong , Xun Erna , Wang Jiaxin , Chen Ge , Cheng Tiexin , Wang Zhi , Ji Tengfei , Wang Lei
Published: May 2012

Trametes villosa Laccase (TVL) was immobilized through physical adsorption on SBA-15 mesoporous silica and the immobilized TVL was used in the oxidative coupling of trans-resveratrol. Higher loading and activity of the immobilized enzyme on SBA-15 were obtained when compared with the free enzyme. The effects of reaction conditions, such as buffer type, pH, temperature and substrate concentration were investigated, and the optimum conditions were screened and resulted in enzyme activity of up to 10.3 μmol/g·h. Furthermore, the oxidative couplings of the derivatives of trans-resveratrol were also catalyzed by immobilized TVL. The immobilized TVL was recyclable and could maintain 78% of its initial activity after reusing it four times.
Beta-Glucans Improve Growth, Viability and Colonization of Probiotic Microorganisms
Authors: Russo Pasquale , López Paloma , Capozzi Vittorio , De Palencia Pilar Fernández , Dueñas María Teresa , Spano Giuseppe , Fiocco Daniela
Published: May 2012

Probiotics, prebiotics and synbiotics are frequently-used components for the elaboration of functional food. Currently, most of the commercialized probiotics are limited to a few strains of the genera Bifidobacteria, Lactobacillus and Streptococcus, most of which produce exopolysaccharides (EPS). This suggests that the beneficial properties of these microorganisms may be related to the biological activities of these biopolymers. In this work we report that a 2-substituted-(1,3)-β-D-glucan of non-dairy bacterial origin has a prebiotic effect on three probiotic strains. Moreover, the presence of this β-D-glucan potentiates in vitro adhesion of the probiotic Lactobacillus plantarum WCFS1 to human intestinal epithelial cells.
Molecular Characterization of Cultivated Bromeliad Accessions with Inter-Simple Sequence Repeat (ISSR) Markers
Authors: Zhang Fei , Ge Yaying , Wang Weiyong , Yu Xinying , Shen Xiaolan , Liu Jianxin , Liu Xiaojing , Tian Danqing , Shen Fuquan , Yu Yongming
Published: May 2012

Bromeliads are of great economic importance in flower production; however little information is available with respect to genetic characterization of cultivated bromeliads thus far. In the present study, a selection of cultivated bromeliads was characterized via inter-simple sequence repeat (ISSR) markers with an emphasis on genetic diversity and population structure. Twelve ISSR primers produced 342 bands, of which 287 (~84%) were polymorphic, with polymorphic bands per primer ranging from 17 to 34. The Jaccard’s similarity ranged from 0.08 to 0.89 and averaged ~0.30 for the investigated bromeliads. The Bayesian-based approach, together with the un-weighted paired group method with arithmetic average (UPGMA)-based clustering and the principal coordinate analysis (PCoA), distinctly grouped the bromeliads from Neoregelia, Guzmania, and Vriesea into three separately clusters, well corresponding with their botanical classifications; whereas the bromeliads of Aechmea other than the recently selected hybrids were not well assigned to a cluster. Additionally, ISSR marker was proven efficient for the identification of hybrids and bud sports of cultivated bromeliads. The findings achieved herein will further our knowledge about the genetic variability within cultivated bromeliads and therefore facilitate breeding for new varieties of cultivated bromeliads in future as well.
Design and Synthesis of Binding Growth Factors
Authors: Tada Seiichi , Kitajima Takashi , Ito Yoshihiro
Published: May 2012

Growth factors play important roles in tissue regeneration. However, because of their instability and diffusible nature, improvements in their performance would be desirable for therapeutic applications. Conferring binding affinities would be one way to improve their applicability. Here we review techniques for conjugating growth factors to polypeptides with particular affinities. Conjugation has been designed at the level of gene fusion and of polypeptide ligation. We summarize and discuss the designs and applications of binding growth factors prepared by such conjugation approaches.
Neuroprotective Effects of Ischemic Preconditioning and Postconditioning on Global Brain Ischemia in Rats through the Same Effect on Inhibition of Apoptosis
Authors: Ding Zhe-Min , Wu Bing , Zhang Wei-Qiao , Lu Xiao-Jie , Lin Yu-Chang , Geng Yong-Jian , Miao Yi-Feng
Published: May 2012

Transient forebrain or global ischemia induces neuronal death in vulnerable CA1 pyramidal cells with many features. A brief period of ischemia, i.e., ischemic preconditioning, or a modified reperfusion such as ischemic postconditioning, can afford robust protection of CA1 neurons against ischemic challenge. Therefore, we investigated the effect of ischemic preconditioning and postconditioning on neural cell apoptosis in rats. The result showed that both ischemic preconditioning and postconditioning may attenuate the neural cell death and DNA fragment in the hippocampal CA1 region. Further western blot study suggested that ischemic preconditioning and postconditioning down-regulates the protein of cleaved caspase-3, caspase-6, caspase-9 and Bax, but up-regulates the protein Bcl-2. These findings suggest that ischemic preconditioning and postconditioning have a neuroprotective role on global brain ischemia in rats through the same effect on inhibition of apoptosis.
Hedyotis diffusa Willd Inhibits Colorectal Cancer Growth in Vivo via Inhibition of STAT3 Signaling Pathway
Authors: Cai Qiaoyan , Lin Jiumao , Wei Lihui , Zhang Ling , Wang Lili , Zhan Youzhi , Zeng Jianwei , Xu Wei , Shen Aling , Hong Zhenfeng , Peng Jun
Published: May 2012

Signal Transducer and Activator of Transcription 3 (STAT3), a common oncogenic mediator, is constitutively activated in many types of human cancers; therefore it is a major focus in the development of novel anti-cancer agents. Hedyotis diffusa Willd has been used as a major component in several Chinese medicine formulas for the clinical treatment of colorectal cancer (CRC). However, the precise mechanism of its anti-tumor activity remains largely unclear. Using a CRC mouse xenograft model, in the present study we evaluated the effect of the ethanol extract of Hedyotis diffusa Willd (EEHDW) on tumor growth in vivo and investigated the underlying molecular mechanisms. We found that EEHDW reduced tumor volume and tumor weight, but had no effect on body weight gain in CRC mice, demonstrating that EEHDW can inhibit CRC growth in vivo without apparent adverse effect. In addition, EEHDW treatment suppressed STAT3 phosphorylation in tumor tissues, which in turn resulted in the promotion of cancer cell apoptosis and inhibition of proliferation. Moreover, EEHDW treatment altered the expression pattern of several important target genes of the STAT3 signaling pathway, i.e., decreased expression of Cyclin D1, CDK4 and Bcl-2 as well as up-regulated p21 and Bax. These results suggest that suppression of the STAT3 pathway might be one of the mechanisms by which EEHDW treats colorectal cancer.
Effect of FTY720 on Some Physiological Indexes of Non-Obese Diabetic (NOD) Mice
Authors: Chen Xiaoqiang , Ye Sudan , Zhang Shikang , Li Jianrong , Zhu Hongying , Zheng Gaoli , Lu Yin , Wan Haitong
Published: May 2012

The studies were performed to investigate the physiological characteristics of non-obese diabetic (NOD) mice treated with FTY720. At the age of 12 weeks, each mouse was fed with FTY720 or physiological saline once a day for 10 weeks running, and their blood glucose, weight, anti-GAD antibody and organ indexes were determined. No mouse in group FTY720 (NOD mice treated with FTY720) showed diabetic symptoms. The average content of serum anti-GAD antibody in group FTY720 decreased 48.75% (P < 0.01). It was concluded that the spleen, kidney and liver of NOD mice treated with FTY720 shriveled significantly in the progression of diabetes (P < 0.01 or P < 0.05). The body weight of group FTY720 mice was slightly lower than that of the model control (MC) group and these two groups both had less body weight than the normal control (NC) group (P
0.5 µW Sub-Threshold Operational Transconductance Amplifiers Using 0.15 µm Fully Depleted Silicon-on-Insulator (FDSOI) Process
Authors: Olejarz Piotr , Park Kyoungchul , MacNaughton Samuel , Dokmeci Mehmet R. , Sonkusale Sameer
Published: May 2012

We present a low voltage, low power operational transconductance amplifier (OTA) designed using a Fully Depleted Silicon-on-Insulator (FDSOI) process. For very low voltage application down to 0.5 V, two-stage miller-compensated OTAs with both p-channel MOSFET (PMOS) and n-channel MOSFET (NMOS) differential input have been investigated in a FDSOI complementary metal oxide semiconductor (CMOS) 150 nm process, using 0.5 V threshold transistors. Both differential input OTAs have been designed to operate from the standard 1.5 V down to 0.5 V with appropriate trade-offs in gain and bandwidth. The NMOS input OTA has a simulated gain/3 dB-bandwidth/power metric of 9.6 dB/39.6 KHz/0.48 µW at 0.6 V and 46.6 dB/45.01 KHz/10.8 µW at 1.5 V. The PMOS input OTA has a simulated metric of 19.7 dB/18.3 KHz/0.42 µW at 0.4 V and 53 dB/1.4 KHz/1.6 µW at 1.5 V with a bias current of 125 nA. The fabricated OTAs have been tested and verified with unity-gain configuration down to a 0.5 V supply voltage. Comparison with bulk process, namely the IBM 180 nm node is provided and with relevant discussion on the use of FDSOI process for low voltage analog design.
Alkylation of Benzene with Propylene in a Flow-Through Membrane Reactor and Fixed-Bed Reactor: Preliminary Results
Authors: Torres-Rodríguez Miguel , Gutiérrez-Arzaluz Mirella , Mugica-Álvarez Violeta , Aguilar-Pliego Julia , Pergher Sibele
Published: May 2012

Benzene alkylation with propylene was studied in the gas phase using a catalytic membrane reactor and a fixed-bed reactor in the temperature range of 200–300 °C and with a weight hourly space velocity (WHSV) of 51 h−1. β-zeolite was prepared by hydrothermal synthesis using silica, aluminum metal and TEAOH as precursors. The membrane’s XRD patterns showed good crystallinity for the β-zeolite film, while scanning electron microscopy SEM results indicated that its random polycrystalline film was approximately 1 μm thick. The powders’ specific area was determined to be 400 m2×g−1 by N2 adsorption/desorption, and the TPD results indicated an overall acidity of 3.4 mmol NH3×g−1. Relative to the powdered catalyst, the catalytic membrane showed good activity and product selectivity for cumene.
RETRACTED: Flux Dynamics in Y358 Superconductors
Authors: Heidari Alireza , Vedad Seyedali , Heidari Niloofar , Ghorbani Mohammadali
Published: May 2012

Thermally activated flux motion and specific electric resistance in Y358 were studied under different magnetic fields ranging from 0 to 15 kOe. Through investigating the broadening of normal-superconducting transition, we found that the thermally-activated-flux-motion model can describe the electronic effect near the superconducting transition temperature. By modifying this model, specific electric resistance at different magnetic fields was calculated.
Pullularins E and F, Two New Peptides from the Endophytic Fungus Bionectria ochroleuca Isolated from the Mangrove Plant Sonneratia caseolaris
Authors: Ebrahim Weaam , Kjer Julia , El Amrani Mustapha , Wray Victor , Lin Wenhan , Ebel Rainer , Lai Daowan , Proksch Peter
Published: May 2012

Chemical investigation of the EtOAc extract of the endophytic fungus Bionectria ochroleuca, isolated from the inner leaf tissues of the plant Sonneratia caseolaris (Sonneratiaceae) from Hainan island (China), yielded two new peptides, pullularins E and F (1 and 2) together with three known compounds (3–5). The structures of the new compounds were unambiguously determined on the basis of one- and two-dimensional NMR spectroscopy as well as by high-resolution mass spectrometry. The absolute configurations of amino acids were determined by HPLC analysis of acid hydrolysates using Marfey’s method. The isolated compounds exhibited pronounced to moderate cytotoxic activity against the mouse lymphoma cells (L5178Y) with EC50 values ranging between 0.1 and 6.7 µg/mL.
Modifications on the Basic Skeletons of Vinblastine and Vincristine
Authors: Keglevich Péter , Hazai László , Kalaus György , Szántay Csaba
Published: May 2012

The synthetic investigation of biologically active natural compounds serves two main purposes: (i) the total synthesis of alkaloids and their analogues; (ii) modification of the structures for producing more selective, more effective, or less toxic derivatives. In the chemistry of dimeric Vinca alkaloids enormous efforts have been directed towards synthesizing new derivatives of the antitumor agents vinblastine and vincristine so as to obtain novel compounds with improved therapeutic properties.
The Vasorelaxant Mechanisms of a Rho Kinase Inhibitor DL0805 in Rat Thoracic Aorta
Authors: Gong Lili , Peng Jianhao , Fang Lianhua , Xie Ping , Si Kun , Jiao Xiaozhen , Wang Liping , Du Guanhua
Published: May 2012

Rho-kinase has been suggested as a potential therapeutic target in the treatment of cardiovascular diseases. The Rho-kinase signaling pathway is substantially involved in vascular contraction. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the vasorelaxant effects of Rho kinase inhibitor DL0805 in isolated rat aortic rings and to investigate its possible mechanism(s). It was found that DL0805 exerted vasorelaxation in a dose-dependent manner in NE or KCl-induced sustained contraction and partial loss of the vasorelaxation under endothelium-denuded rings. The DL0805-induced vasorelaxation was significantly reduced by the nitric oxide synthase inhibitor Nω-nitro-L-arginine methyl ester, the guanylate cyclase inhibitor methylene blue and the cyclooxygenase inhibitor indomethacin. The voltage-dependent K+ channel blocker 4-aminopyridine remarkably attenuated DL0805-induced relaxations. However, the ATP-sensitive K+ channel blocker glibenclamide and Ca2+-activated K+ channel blocker tetraethylammonium did not affect the DL0805-induced relaxation. In the endothelium-denuded rings, DL0805 also reduced NE-induced transient contraction and inhibited contraction induced by increasing external calcium. These findings suggested that DL0805 is a novel vasorelaxant compound associated with inhibition of Rho/ROCK signaling pathway. The NO-cGMP pathway may be involved in the relaxation of DL0805 in endothelium-intact aorta. The vasorelaxant effect of DL0805 is partially mediated by the opening of the voltage-dependent K+ channels.
Green and Highly Efficient Synthesis of 2-Arylbenzothiazoles Using Glycerol without Catalyst at Ambient Temperature
Authors: Sadek Kamal Usef , Mekheimer Ramadan Ahmed , Hameed Afaf Mohamed Abdel , Elnahas Fatma , Elnagdi Mohamed Hilmy
Published: May 2012

A one-pot and clean synthesis of 2-arylbenzothiazoles via the ambient temperature reaction of 2-aminothiophenols and aromatic aldehydes without catalyst in glycerol as a green solvent has been reported.
Selecting Molecular Recognition. What Can Existing Aptamers Tell Us about Their Inherent Recognition Capabilities and Modes of Interaction?
Authors: Zhang Qian , Landgraf Ralf
Published: May 2012

The use of nucleic acid derived aptamers has rapidly expanded since the introduction of SELEX in 1990. Nucleic acid aptamers have demonstrated their ability to target a broad range of molecules in ways that rival antibodies, but advances have been very uneven for different biochemical classes of targets, and clinical applications have been slow to emerge. What sets different aptamers apart from each other and from rivaling molecular recognition platforms, specifically proteins? What advantages do aptamers as a reagent class offer, and how do the chemical properties and selection procedures of aptamers influence their function? Do the building blocks of nucleic acid aptamers dictate inherent limitations in the nature of molecular targets, and do existing aptamers give us insight in how these challenges might be overcome? This review is written as an introduction for potential endusers of aptamer technology who are evaluating the advantages of aptamers as a versatile, affordable, yet highly expandable platform to target a broad range of biological processes or interactions.
Sphingosine 1-Phosphate Receptor 1 as a Useful Target for Treatment of Multiple Sclerosis
Authors: Chiba Kenji , Adachi Kunitomo
Published: May 2012

Sphingosine 1-phosphate (S1P), a lysophospholipid mediator, is generated from sphingosine by sphingosine kinases and binds five known cell surface receptors. S1P receptor 1 (S1P1) plays an essential role in lymphocyte egress from secondary lymphoid organs (SLO), as evinced by the inability of lymphocytes to exit from the SLO in mice lacking lymphocytic S1P1. Fingolimod hydrochloride (FTY720) is a first-in-class, orally active, S1P receptor modulator with a structure closely related to sphingosine. FTY720 was first synthesized by chemical modification of a natural product, myriocin. FTY720 is effectively converted to an active metabolite, FTY720 phosphate (FTY720-P) by sphingosine kinases. FTY720-P shows high affinity to 4 of the S1P receptors (S1P1, S1P3, S1P4, and S1P5). In particular, FTY720-P strongly induces internalization and degradation of S1P1, inhibits S1P responsiveness of lymphocytes in the SLO, and acts as a functional antagonist at lymphocytic S1P1. Consequently, FTY720 inhibits S1P1-dependent lymphocyte egress from the SLO to decrease circulation of lymphocytes including autoreactive Th17 cells and is highly effective in experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE), an animal model of multiple sclerosis (MS). Because FTY720 shows a superior efficacy in relapsing remitting MS patients compared to intramuscular interferon-β-1a (Avonex®), S1P1 is presumed to be a useful target for the therapy of MS.
Tsunami Arrival Detection with High Frequency (HF) Radar
Authors: Lipa Belinda , Isaacson James , Nyden Bruce , Barrick Donald
Published: May 2012

Quantitative real-time observations of a tsunami have been limited to deep-water, pressure-sensor observations of changes in the sea surface elevation and observations of sea level fluctuations at the coast, which are essentially point measurements. Constrained by these data, models have been used for predictions and warning of the arrival of a tsunami, but to date no system exists for local detection of an actual incoming wave with a significant warning capability. Networks of coastal high frequency (HF)-radars are now routinely observing surface currents in many countries. We report here on an empirical method for the detection of the initial arrival of a tsunami, and demonstrate its use with results from data measured by fourteen HF radar sites in Japan and USA following the magnitude 9.0 earthquake off Sendai, Japan, on 11 March 2011. The distance offshore at which the tsunami can be detected, and hence the warning time provided, depends on the bathymetry: the wider the shallow continental shelf, the greater this time. We compare arrival times at the radars with those measured by neighboring tide gauges. Arrival times measured by the radars preceded those at neighboring tide gauges by an average of 19 min (Japan) and 15 min (USA) The initial water-height increase due to the tsunami as measured by the tide gauges was moderate, ranging from 0.3 to 2 m. Thus it appears possible to detect even moderate tsunamis using this method. Larger tsunamis could obviously be detected further from the coast. We find that tsunami arrival within the radar coverage area can be announced 8 min (i.e., twice the radar spectral time resolution) after its first appearance. This can provide advance warning of the tsunami approach to the coastline locations.
Sensor Correction of a 6-Band Multispectral Imaging Sensor for UAV Remote Sensing
Authors: Kelcey Joshua , Lucieer Arko
Published: May 2012

Unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) represent a quickly evolving technology, broadening the availability of remote sensing tools to small-scale research groups across a variety of scientific fields. Development of UAV platforms requires broad technical skills covering platform development, data post-processing, and image analysis. UAV development is constrained by a need to balance technological accessibility, flexibility in application and quality in image data. In this study, the quality of UAV imagery acquired by a miniature 6-band multispectral imaging sensor was improved through the application of practical image-based sensor correction techniques. Three major components of sensor correction were focused upon: noise reduction, sensor-based modification of incoming radiance, and lens distortion. Sensor noise was reduced through the use of dark offset imagery. Sensor modifications through the effects of filter transmission rates, the relative monochromatic efficiency of the sensor and the effects of vignetting were removed through a combination of spatially/spectrally dependent correction factors. Lens distortion was reduced through the implementation of the Brown–Conrady model. Data post-processing serves dual roles in data quality improvement, and the identification of platform limitations and sensor idiosyncrasies. The proposed corrections improve the quality of the raw multispectral imagery, facilitating subsequent quantitative image analysis.
Architecture for Improving Terrestrial Logistics Based on the Web of Things
Authors: Castro Miguel , Jara Antonio J. , Skarmeta Antonio
Published: May 2012

Technological advances for improving supply chain efficiency present three key challenges for managing goods: tracking, tracing and monitoring (TTM), in order to satisfy the requirements for products such as perishable goods where the European Legislations requires them to ship within a prescribed temperature range to ensure freshness and suitability for consumption. The proposed system integrates RFID for tracking and tracing through a distributed architecture developed for heavy goods vehicles, and the sensors embedded in the SunSPOT platform for monitoring the goods transported based on the concept of the Internet of Things. This paper presents how the Internet of Things is integrated for improving terrestrial logistics offering a comprehensive and flexible architecture, with high scalability, according to the specific needs for reaching an item-level continuous monitoring solution. The major contribution from this work is the optimization of the Embedded Web Services based on RESTful (Web of Things) for the access to TTM services at any time during the transportation of goods. Specifically, it has been extended the monitoring patterns such as observe and blockwise transfer for the requirements from the continuous conditional monitoring, and for the transfer of full inventories and partial ones based on conditional queries. In definitive, this work presents an evolution of the previous TTM solutions, which were limited to trailer identification and environment monitoring, to a solution which is able to provide an exhaustive item-level monitoring, required for several use cases. This exhaustive monitoring has required new communication capabilities through the Web of Things, which has been optimized with the use and improvement of a set of communications patterns.
A Critical Review of Published Data on the Gas Temperature and the Electron Density in the Electrolyte Cathode Atmospheric Glow Discharges
Authors: Mezei Pál , Cserfalvi Tamás
Published: May 2012

Electrolyte Cathode Discharge (ELCAD) spectrometry, a novel sensitive multielement direct analytical method for metal traces in aqueous solutions, was introduced in 1993 as a new sensing principle. Since then several works have tried to develop an operational mechanism for this exotic atmospheric glow plasma technique, however these attempts cannot be combined into a valid model description. In this review we summarize the conceptual and technical problems we found in this upcoming research field of direct sensors. The TG gas temperature and the ne electron density values published up to now for ELCAD are very confusing. These data were evaluated by three conditions. The first is the gas composition of the ELCAD plasma, since TG was determined from the emitted intensity of the N2 and OH bands. Secondly, since the ELCAD is an atmospheric glow discharge, thus, the obtained TG has to be close to the Te electron temperature. This can be used for the mutual validation of the received temperature data. Thirdly, as a consequence of the second condition, the values of TG and ne have to agree with the Engel-Brown approximation of the Saha-equation related to weakly ionized glow discharge plasmas. Application of non-adequate experimental methods and theoretical treatment leads to unreliable descriptions which cannot be used to optimize the detector performance.
Transformation of an Industrial Brownfield into an Ecological Buffer for Michigan’s Only Ramsar Wetland of International Importance
Authors: Hartig John H. , Krueger Allison , Rice Kelly , Niswander Steven F. , Jenkins Burke , Norwood Greg
Published: May 2012

The Detroit River International Wildlife Refuge spans 77 km along the Detroit River and western Lake Erie, and is the only unit of the National Wildlife Refuge System that is international. A key unit of the refuge is the 166-ha Humbug Marsh that represents the last kilometer of natural shoreline on the U.S. mainland of the river and Michigan’s only “Wetland of International Importance” designated under the 1971 International Ramsar Convention. Adjacent to Humbug Marsh is an 18-ha former industrial manufacturing site (now called the Refuge Gateway) that is being remediated and restored as an ecological buffer for Humbug Marsh and the future home of the refuge’s visitor center. Restoration and redevelopment activities have included: cleanup and capping of contaminated lands; daylighting a creek (i.e., deliberately exposing the flow of a creek that was historically placed underground in a culvert) and constructing a retention pond and emergent wetland to treat storm water prior to discharge to the Detroit River; restoring coastal wetland, riparian buffer, and upland habitats; and constructing two roads, hiking/biking trails, and a kayak/canoe landing to offer wildlife-compatible public uses that allow visitors to experience this internationally-recognized natural resource. This project has been described as transformational for the region by restoring an industrial brownfield into high quality wildlife habitat that expands the ecological buffer of a Ramsar site. Specific restoration targets for the site include: achieving a net gain of 6.5 ha of wetlands in a river that has lost 97% of its coastal wetlands to development; restoring 10.1 ha of upland buffer habitat; treating invasive Phragmites along 4 km of shoreline; and treatment of invasive plant species in 20.2 ha of upland habitats in Humbug Marsh. Further, the Refuge Gateway is being restored as a model of environmental sustainability for nearly seven million residents within a 45-minute drive. Key lessons learned include: reach broad-based agreement on a sustainability vision; identify and involve a key champion; establish core project delivery team; ensure up-front involvement of regulatory agencies; recruit and meaningfully involve many partners; expect the unexpected; practice adaptive management; place a priority on sound science-based decision making; ensure decision-making transparency; measure and celebrate successes, including benefits; and place a high priority on education and outreach.
Sustained Virological Response after 14 - D Ay Treatment with Danoprevir and 48-Week Treatment with Pegylated Interferon-α2A (40 Kd) plus Ribavirin
Authors: Larrey Dominique , Carenco Christophe , Guyader Dominique , Boyer Nathalie , Benhamou Yves , Pageaux Georges-Philippe , Rouzier Regine , Marcellin Patrick
Published: May 2012

Background

Danoprevir (RG7227) is an inhibitor of the HCV NS3/4A protease. In two Phase Ib studies of treatment-naive patients with chronic HCV genotype 1 infection, danoprevir administration for 14 days was associated with HCV RNA median reduction reaching 3.8 log10 in monotherapy and 5.7 log10 in combination therapy with pegylated interferon (PEG-IFN)-α2a (40 KD) plus ribavirin (RBV). After the protocol-defined phase, patients were free to continue with PEG-IFN/RBV. Sustained virological response (SVR) was evaluated in patients who continued treatment with PEG-IFN/RBV.

Methods

Retrospective analysis of the patients who received a 14-day monotherapy regimen with danoprevir (100 or 200 mg every 8 or 12 h), or 14-day triple therapy with danoprevir (100, 200 or 300 mg every 8 h, or 400, 600 or 900 mg every 12 h) with PEG-IFN-α2a (40 KD; 180 mg/ week subcutaneously) and RBV (1,000–1,200 mg/day) followed by PEG-IFN-α2a (40 KD; 180 μg/week subcutaneously) and RBV (1,000–1,200 mg/day) for 46 weeks (triple therapy group) for a total of 48 weeks (monotherapy group).

Results

Data were collected from 15 patients with danoprevir monotherapy and 24 patients with danoprevir-based triple therapy. Virological results are expressed using an intention-to-treat principle. Premature treatment discontinuation occurred in five patients. Rapid virological response (RVR; week 4) rate was 50% and 69.6% and SVR rate was 60% and 70.8% in the mono-therapy and triple therapy groups, respectively. RVR was highly predictive of SVR (>90%; HCV RNA<15 IU/ml).

Conclusions

The addition of danoprevir for 14 days to PEG-IFN/RBV treatment results in a high SVR rate in HCV genotype 1 treatment-naive patients.
Age-related deficits of manual grasping in a laboratory versus in an everyday-like setting
Authors: Bock Otmar , Steinberg Fabian
Published: May 2012

This study compared the grasping performance of 24 younger (20-30 years of age) and 24 older subjects (60-70 years of age) in a typical laboratory task (L) where movements were repetitive, externally triggered, purposeless and attention-attracting, and in an everydaylike task (E) where movements were part of a rich behavioral repertoire, internally initiated, purposive and little attended. We registered a wide range of kinematic and force parameters, and calculated their within-subject means and variation coefficients. Multiple differences emerged between the parameter values in L and E. Factor analysis reduced them to five independent effects. We also found multiple differences between the two age groups, with seniors responding more slowly and in a more stereotyped fashion. Multiple significant task x age interactions emerged as well, with age differences being more pronounced in E than in L. The latter finding is of practical relevance, since it suggests that age-related deficits in some real-life situations may be underestimated in laboratory research. It also is of theoretical relevance: it indicates that brain regions which are particularly vulnerable to aging may contribute to task E more than to task L.
Acute Disseminated Intravascular Coagulation Following Surgical Resection of a Myeloid Sarcoma in a 57-Year-Old Male
Authors: Paul Rohan , Morgan David , Levitt Michael , Baker Ross
Published: May 2012

Myeloid sarcoma is a rare extramedullary tumour consisting of immature myeloid cells. It can arise at any anatomical location and often develops in the bowel. This report describes a case of severe acute disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC) with multi-organ failure occurring in a 57-year-old man with chronic myelomonocytic leukaemia during bowel resection for newly diagnosed adenocarcinoma of the sigmoid colon. Histopa thology however revealed a differentiating myeloid sarcoma encompassing a well-differentiated adenocarcinoma. This is the first documented case of acute DIC to be triggered following surgical manipulation of myeloid sarcoma.
Soft Tissue Fibrosarcoma of Pre Maxillary Region in an Adult: Report of a Unique Pathological Entity
Authors: Naik K. Smitha , Astekar Madhusudhan , Rao Dinesh
Published: May 2012

Fibrosarcoma of the oral and maxillofacial region is a rare entity with poor prognosis. Most common sites are the extremities, with only one percent of fibrosarcoma arising in the head and neck area. Oral fibrosarcoma are locally infiltrative and destructive, spreads by haematogenous dissemination. The positive immunostaining for vimentin, together with negativity for muscular immunomarkers help to diagnosis the fibrosarcoma. Surgical management of fibrosarcoma in maxillofacial region is far from satisfactory, because of lack of inadequate clearance. This paper describes an unusual case of soft tissue fibrosarcoma of premaxillary region in an adult aged 71 years.