bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
ELECTRONIC TRANSPORT BEHAVIORS DUE TO CHARGE DENSITY WAVES IN Ni–Nb–Zr–H GLASSY ALLOYS
Authors: FUKUHARA MIKIO , UMEMORI YOSHIMASA
Published: September 2013

The amorphous Ni – Nb – Zr – H glassy alloy containing subnanometer-sized icosahedral Zr 5 Nb 5 Ni 3 clusters exhibited four types of electronic phenomena: a metal/insulator transition, an electric current-induced voltage oscillation (Coulomb oscillation), giant capacitor behavior and an electron avalanche with superior resistivity. These findings could be excluded by charge density waves that the low-dimensional component of clusters, in which the atoms are lined up in chains along the [130] direction, plays important roles in various electron transport phenomena.
STUDY OF ELECTRICAL AND OPTICAL PROPERTIES OF Cu-ASSISTED AMORPHOUS CARBON THIN FILMS DEPOSITION BY DC MAGNETRON SPUTTERING
Authors: HASSANNIA SARA , ELAHI SEYED MOHAMMAD , BOOCHANI ARASH
Published: September 2013

Cu incorporated amorphous carbon thin films have been prepared by DC-magnetron sputtering using a bi-component Cu - C composite target. The properties of the films have been investigated by X-ray diffraction, energy dispersive X-ray analysis, atomic force microscopy, FTIR, Raman and UV-vis spectroscopies. The results show that the films are amorphous with major distorted sp2 graphite bonds as well as carbon nanotubes. Sputtering simulation shows that the chemical composition of the films is Cu 0.066 C 0.934. Cu addition results in the formation of new type of carbon nanotubes (CNT) with new radial Breathing mode located at 236 cm-1. Cu induces an increase in the density of defects due to bundles of CNT's. Moreover the films are transparent in visible range and highly reflective in mid-infrared region. Electrical characterization shows that the pure carbon deposited films are semiconductor while the copper assisted thin films behave like metal and their sheet resistance is comparable with sheet resistance of conventional conductive electrodes.
INFLUENCE OF EXTERNAL FIELDS ON THE KILLINGBECK POTENTIAL: QUASI EXACT SOLUTION
Authors: HAMZAVI M. , IKHDAIR S. M.
Published: September 2013

The Killingbeck potential consists of oscillator potential plus Cornell potential, i.e. ar2+ br - c/r, that it has received a great deal of attention in particle physics. In this paper, we study the energy levels and wave function for arbitrary m-state in two-dimensional (2D) Schrödinger equation (SE) with a Killingbeck potential under the influence of strong external uniform magnetic and Aharonov–Bohm (AB) flux fields perpendicular to the plane where the interacting particles are confined. We use the wave function ansatz method to solve the radial problem of the Schrödinger equation with Killingbeck potential. We obtain the energy levels in the absence of external fields and also find the energy levels of the familiar Coulomb and harmonic oscillator potentials.
Palmitoleic acid (n-7) increases white adipocyte lipolysis and lipase content in a PPARα-dependent manner
Authors: Bolsoni-Lopes Andressa , Festuccia William T. , Farias Talita S. M. , Chimin Patricia , Torres-Leal Francisco L. , Derogis Priscilla B. M. , de Andrade Paula B. , Miyamoto Sayuri , Lima Fabio B. , Curi Rui , Alonso-Vale Maria Isabel C.
Published: September 2013

We investigated whether palmitoleic acid, a fatty acid that enhances whole body glucose disposal and suppresses hepatic steatosis, modulates triacylglycerol (TAG) metabolism in adipocytes. For this, both differentiated 3T3-L1 cells treated with either palmitoleic acid (16:1n7, 200 μM) or palmitic acid (16:0, 200 μM) for 24 h and primary adipocytes from wild-type or PPARα-deficient mice treated with 16:1n7 (300 mg·kg−1·day−1) or oleic acid (18:1n9, 300 mg·kg−1·day−1) by gavage for 10 days were evaluated for lipolysis, TAG, and glycerol 3-phosphate synthesis and gene and protein expression profile. Treatment of differentiated 3T3-L1 cells with 16:1n7, but not 16:0, increased basal and isoproterenol-stimulated lipolysis, mRNA levels of adipose triglyceride lipase (ATGL) and hormone-sensitive lipase (HSL) and protein content of ATGL and pSer660-HSL. Such increase in lipolysis induced by 16:1n7, which can be prevented by pharmacological inhibition of PPARα, was associated with higher rates of PPARα binding to DNA. In contrast to lipolysis, both 16:1n7 and 16:0 increased fatty acid incorporation into TAG and glycerol 3-phosphate synthesis from glucose without affecting glyceroneogenesis and glycerokinase expression. Corroborating in vitro findings, treatment of wild-type but not PPARα-deficient mice with 16:1n7 increased primary adipocyte basal and stimulated lipolysis and ATGL and HSL mRNA levels. In contrast to lipolysis, however, 16:1n7 treatment increased fatty acid incorporation into TAG and glycerol 3-phosphate synthesis from glucose in both wild-type and PPARα-deficient mice. In conclusion, palmitoleic acid increases adipocyte lipolysis and lipases by a mechanism that requires a functional PPARα.
Altered content of AMP-activated protein kinase isoforms in skeletal muscle from spinal cord injured subjects
Authors: Kostovski Emil , Boon Hanneke , Hjeltnes Nils , Lundell Leonidas S. , Ahlsén Maria , Chibalin Alexander V. , Krook Anna , Iversen Per Ole , Widegren Ulrika
Published: September 2013

AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) is a pivotal regulator of energy homeostasis. Although downstream targets of AMPK are widely characterized, the physiological factors governing isoform expression of this protein kinase are largely unknown. Nerve/contractile activity has a major impact on the metabolic phenotype of skeletal muscle, therefore likely to influence AMPK isoform expression. Spinal cord injury represents an extreme form of physical inactivity, with concomitant changes in skeletal muscle metabolism. We assessed the influence of longstanding and recent spinal cord injury on protein abundance of AMPK isoforms in human skeletal muscle. We also determined muscle fiber type as a marker of glycolytic or oxidative metabolism. In subjects with longstanding complete injury, protein abundance of the AMPKγ3 subunit, as well as myosin heavy chain (MHC) IIa and IIx, were increased, whereas abundance of the AMPKγ1 subunit and MHC I were decreased. Similarly, abundance of AMPKγ3 and MHC IIa proteins were increased, whereas AMPKα2, -β1, and -γ1 subunits and MHC I abundance was decreased during the first year following injury, reflecting a more glycolytic phenotype of the skeletal muscle. However, in incomplete cervical lesions, partial recovery of muscle function attenuated the changes in the isoform profile of AMPK and MHC. Furthermore, exercise training (electrically stimulated leg cycling) partly normalized mRNA expression of AMPK isoforms. Thus, physical activity affects the relative expression of AMPK isoforms. In conclusion, skeletal muscle abundance of AMPK isoforms is related to physical activity and/or muscle fiber type. Thus, physical/neuromuscular activity is an important determinant of isoform abundance of AMPK and MCH. This further underscores the need for physical activity as part of a treatment regimen after spinal cord injury to maintain skeletal muscle metabolism.
Increased cytokine and chemokine gene expression in the CNS of mice during heat stroke recovery
Authors: Biedenkapp Joseph C. , Leon Lisa R.
Published: September 2013

Heat stroke (HS) is characterized by a systemic inflammatory response syndrome (SIRS) consisting of profound core temperature (Tc) changes in mice. Encephalopathy is common at HS collapse, but inflammatory changes occurring in the brain during the SIRS remain unidentified. We determined the association between inflammatory gene expression changes in the brain with Tc disturbances during HS recovery in mice. Gene expression changes of heat shock protein (HSP)72, heme oxygenase (hmox1), cytokines (IL-1β, IL-6, TNF-α), cyclooxygenase enzymes (COX-1, COX-2), chemokines (MCP-1, MIP-1α, MIP-1β, CX3CR1), and glia activation markers (CD14, aif1, vimentin) were examined in the hypothalamus (HY) and hippocampus (HC) of control (Tc ∼ 36.0°C) and HS mice at Tc,Max (42.7°C), hypothermia depth (HD; 29.3 ± 0.4°C), and fever (37.8 ± 0.3°C). HSP72 (HY<HC) and IL-1β (HY only) were the only genes that showed increased expression at Tc,Max. HSP72 (HY < HC), hmox1 (HY < HC), cytokine (HY = HC), and chemokine (HY = HC) expression was highest at HD and similar to controls during fever. COX-1 expression was unaffected by HS, whereas HD was associated with approximately threefold increase in COX-2 expression (HY only). COX-2 expression was not increased during fever and indomethacin (COX inhibitor) had no effect on this Tc response indicating fever is regulated by other inflammatory pathways. CD14, aif1, and vimentin activation at HD coincided with maximal cytokine and chemokine expression suggesting glia cells are a possible source of brain cytokines and chemokines during HS recovery. The inflammatory gene expression changes during HS recovery suggest cytokines and/or chemokines may be initiating development or rewarming from hypothermia, whereas fever pathway(s) remain to be elucidated.
Usher proteins in inner ear structure and function
Authors: Ahmed Zubair M. , Frolenkov Gregory I. , Riazuddin Saima
Published: September 2013

Usher syndrome (USH) is a neurosensory disorder affecting both hearing and vision in humans. Linkage studies of families of USH patients, studies in animals, and characterization of purified proteins have provided insight into the molecular mechanisms of hearing. To date, 11 USH proteins have been identified, and evidence suggests that all of them are crucial for the function of the mechanosensory cells of the inner ear, the hair cells. Most USH proteins are localized to the stereocilia of the hair cells, where mechano-electrical transduction (MET) of sound-induced vibrations occurs. Therefore, elucidation of the functions of USH proteins in the stereocilia is a prerequisite to understanding the exact mechanisms of MET.
Existence Results for Fractional Difference Equations with Three-Point Fractional Sum Boundary Conditions
Authors: Sitthiwirattham Thanin , Tariboon Jessada , Ntouyas Sotiris K.
Published: September 2013

We consider a discrete fractional boundary value problem of the formΔαu(t)=f(t+α-1,u(t+α-1)),  t∈[0,T]ℕ0:={0,1,…,T},  u(α-2)=0,  u(α+T)=Δ-βu(η+β),where1<α≤2,β>0,η∈[α-2,α+T-1]ℕα-2:={α-2,α-1,…,α+T-1}, andf:[α-1,α,…,α+T-1]ℕα-1×ℝ→ℝis a continuous function. The existence of at least one solution is proved by using Krasnoselskii's fixed point theorem and Leray-Schauder's nonlinear alternative. Some illustrative examples are also presented.
Effect of Intensive Blood Pressure Control on Cardiovascular Remodeling in Hypertensive Patients with Nephrosclerosis
Authors: Randall Otelio , Kwagyan John , Retta Tamrat , Jamerson Kenneth , Pogue Velvie , Norris Keith , Ketete Muluemebet , Xu Shichen , Greene Tom , Wang Xuelei , Agodoa Lawrence
Published: September 2013

Pulse pressure (PP), a marker of arterial system properties, has been linked to cardiovascular (CV) complications. We examined (a) association between unit changes of PP and (i) composite CV outcomes and (ii) development of left-ventricular hypertrophy (LVH) and (b) effect of mean arterial pressure (MAP) control on rate of change in PP. We studied 1094 nondiabetics with nephrosclerosis in the African American Study of Kidney Disease and Hypertension. Subjects were randomly assigned to usual MAP goal (102–107 mmHg) or a lower MAP goal (≤92 mmHg) and randomized to beta-blocker, angiotensin converting enzyme inhibitor, or calcium channel blocker. After covariate adjustment, a higher PP was associated with increased risk of CV outcome (RR = 1.28, CI = 1.11–1.47,P<0.01) and new LVH (RR = 1.26, CI = 1.04–1.54,P=0.02). PP increased at a greater rate in the usual than in lower MAP groups (slope ± SE: 1.08 ± 0.15 versus 0.42 ± 0.15 mmHg/year,P=0.002), but not by the antihypertensive treatment assignment. Observations indicate that control to a lower MAP slows the progression of PP, a correlate of cardiovascular remodeling and complications, and may be beneficial to CV health.
Castleman Disease: An Unexpected Cause of a Solitary Pleural Mass
Authors: Moloney Fiachra , Twomey Maria , Hinchion John , Maher Michael
Published: September 2013

Castleman disease (CD) is a rare benign lymphoproliferative disorder, the etiology of which is unclear. Clinically it may manifest as localized disease (unicentric) or disseminated disease (multicentric). CD occurs in the thorax in 70% of cases, abdomen and pelvis in 15%, and in the neck in 10–15% of cases. We present a case of a pleural mass located posteriorly in a paraspinal location, which was discovered incidentally in a 50-year-old man and was subsequently resected followed by an unexpected diagnosis of Castleman disease on histological examination. In this report, we review the clinical and histological findings in a rare presentation of Castleman disease and discuss the findings in this case as part of an overall review of the typical radiological findings seen in Castleman disease.
Enhanced Photoelectrochemical Response from Copper Antimony Zinc Sulfide Thin Films on Transparent Conducting Electrode
Authors: Sarswat Prashant K. , Free Michael L.
Published: September 2013

Copper antimony sulfide (CAS) is a relatively new class of sustainable absorber material, utilizing cost effective and abundant elements. Band gap engineered, modified CAS thin films were synthesized using electrodeposition and elevated temperature sulfurization approach. A testing analog of copper zinc antimony sulfide (CZAS) film-electrolyte interface was created in order to evaluate photoelectrochemical performance of the thin film of absorber materials. Eu3+/Eu2+redox couple was selected for this purpose, based on its relative band offset with copper antimony sulfide. It was observed that zinc has a significant effect on CAS film properties. An enhanced photocurrent was observed for CAS film, modified with zinc addition. A detailed investigation has been carried out by changing stoichiometry, and corresponding surface and optical characterization results have been evaluated. A summary of favorable processing parameters of the films showing enhanced photoelectrochemical response is presented.
Recovery of Stored Aerobic Granular Sludge and Its Contaminants Removal Efficiency under Different Operation Conditions
Authors: Zhao Zhiwei , Wang Shuo , Shi Wenxin , Li Ji
Published: September 2013

The quick recovery process of contaminants removal of aerobic granular sludge (AGS) is complex, and the influencing factors are still not clear. The effects of dissolved oxygen (DO, air intensive aeration rate), organic loading rate (OLR), and C/N on contaminants removal characteristics of AGS and subsequently long-term operation of AGS bioreactor were investigated in this study. DO had a major impact on the recovery of AGS. The granules reactivated at air intensive aeration rate of 100 L/h achieved better settling property and contaminants removal efficiency. Moreover, protein content in extracellular polymeric substance (EPS) was almost unchanged, which demonstrated that an aeration rate of 100 L/h was more suitable for maintaining the biomass and the structure of AGS. Higher OLR caused polysaccharides content increase in EPS, and unstable C/N resulted in the overgrowth of filamentous bacteria, which presented worse NH4+-N and PO43−-P removal. Correspondingly, quick recovery of contaminants removal was accomplished in 12 days at the optimized operation conditions of aeration rate 100 L/h, OLR 4 g/L·d, and C/N 100 : 10, with COD, NH4+-N, and PO43−-P removal efficiencies of 87.2%, 86.9%, and 86.5%, respectively. The renovation of AGS could be successfully utilized as the seed sludge for the rapid start-up of AGS bioreactor.
Engaging Nurses in Research for a Randomized Clinical Trial of a Behavioral Health Intervention
Authors: Roll Lona , Stegenga Kristin , Hendricks-Ferguson Verna , Barnes Yvonne J. , Cherven Brooke , Docherty Sharron L. , Robb Sheri L. , Haase Joan E.
Published: September 2013

Nurse involvement in research is essential to the expansion of nursing science and improved care for patients. The research participation challenges encountered by nurses providing direct care (direct care nurses) include balancing patient care demands with research, adjusting to fluctuating staff and patient volumes, working with interdisciplinary personnel, and feeling comfortable with their knowledge of the research process. The purpose of this paper is to describe efforts to engage nurses in research for the Stories and Music for Adolescent/Young Adult Resilience during Transplant (SMART) study. SMART was an NIH-funded, multisite, randomized, behavioral clinical trial of a music therapy intervention for adolescents/young adults (AYA) undergoing stem cell transplant for an oncology condition. The study was conducted at 8 sites by a large multidisciplinary team that included direct care nurses, advanced practice nurses, and nurse researchers, as well as board-certified music therapists, clinical research coordinators, and physicians. Efforts to include direct care nurses in the conduct of this study fostered mutual respect across disciplines in both academic and clinical settings.
Application of Universal Stress Proteins in Probing the Dynamics of Potent Degraders in Complex Terephthalate Metagenome
Authors: Mbah Andreas N. , Isokpehi Raphael D.
Published: September 2013

The culture-independent strategies to study microbial diversity and function have led to a revolution in environmental genomics, enabling fundamental questions about the distribution of microbes and their influence on bioremediation to be addressed. In this research we used the expression of universal stress proteins as a probe to determine the changes in degrading microbial population from a highly toxic terephthalate wastewater to a less toxic activated sludge bioreactor. The impact of relative toxicities was significantly elaborated at the levels of genus and species. The results indicated that 23 similar prokaryotic phyla were represented in both metagenomes irrespective of their relative abundance. Furthermore, the following bacteria taxa Micromonosporaceae,Streptomyces, Cyanothecesp. PCC 7822,Alicyclobacillus acidocaldarius, Bacillus halodurans, Leuconostoc mesenteroides, Lactococcus garvieae, Brucellaceae,Ralstonia solanacearum, Verminephrobacter eiseniae,Azoarcus,Acidithiobacillus ferrooxidans, Francisella tularensis, Methanothermus fervidus,andMethanocorpusculum labreanumwere represented only in the activated sludge bioreactor. These highly dynamic microbes could serve as taxonomic biomarkers for toxic thresholds related to terephthalate and its derivatives. This paper, highlights the application of universal stress proteins in metagenomics analysis. Dynamics of microbial consortium of this nature can have future in biotechnological applications in bioremediation of toxic chemicals and radionuclides.
Computer Aided Detection of Breast Density and Mass, and Visualization of Other Breast Anatomical Regions on Mammograms Using Graph Cuts
Authors: Saidin Nafiza , Mat Sakim Harsa Amylia , Ngah Umi Kalthum , Shuaib Ibrahim Lutfi
Published: September 2013

Breast cancer mostly arises from the glandular (dense) region of the breast. Consequently, breast density has been found to be a strong indicator for breast cancer risk. Therefore, there is a need to develop a system which can segment or classify dense breast areas. In a dense breast, the sensitivity of mammography for the early detection of breast cancer is reduced. It is difficult to detect a mass in a breast that is dense. Therefore, a computerized method to separate the existence of a mass from the glandular tissues becomes an important task. Moreover, if the segmentation results provide more precise demarcation enabling the visualization of the breast anatomical regions, it could also assist in the detection of architectural distortion or asymmetry. This study attempts to segment the dense areas of the breast and the existence of a mass and to visualize other breast regions (skin-air interface, uncompressed fat, compressed fat, and glandular) in a system. The graph cuts (GC) segmentation technique is proposed. Multiselection of seed labels has been chosen to provide the hard constraint for segmentation of the different parts. The results are promising. A strong correlation () was observed between the segmented dense breast areas detected and radiological ground truth.
The Clinical Investigation of Disparity of Utility Values Associated with Gallstone Disease: A Pilot Study
Authors: Hsu Chung-Te , Liao Yi , Liu Jorn-Hon , Tung Tao-Hsin
Published: September 2013

Purpose. The utility evaluation was an effective method to incorporate all of the contributing variables for multiple diseases into one outcome measure. A cross-sectional study was conducted to assess the utility values associated with varying states of gallstone disease among outpatient clinics participants at a teaching hospital in Taipei, Taiwan.Methods. The utility values were measured by using time trade-off method. A total of 120 outpatient clinics participants (30 subjects with no gallstone disease, 30 subjects with single stone, 30 subjects with multiple stones, and 30 subjects with cholecystectomy) evaluated utility values from January 1, 2006 to December 31, 2006. The diagnosis of gallstone disease was performed by a panel of specialists using ultrasound sonography.Results. The overall mean utility value was0.89±0.13(95% CI: 0.87–0.91) indicating that study participants were willing to trade about 11% (95% CI: 9–13%) of their remaining life in return for being free of gallstone disease perpetually. The significant associated factors of utility values based on the multiple linear regression analysis were older age and different degrees of gallstone disease.Conclusion. Our results found that in addition to older age, multiple stones and cholecystectomy could influence utility values from the patient’s preference-based viewpoint.
Preparation of Approximate Eigenvector by Unitary Operations on Eigenstate in Abrams-Lloyd Quantum Algorithm
Authors: Warrier Latha S.
Published: September 2013

The Abrams-Lloyd quantum algorithm computes an eigenvalue and the corresponding eigenstate of a unitary matrix from an approximate eigenvector Va. The eigenstate is a basis vector in the orthonormal eigenspace. Finding another eigenvalue, using a random approximate eigenvector, may require many trials as the trial may repeatedly result in the eigenvalue measured earlier. We present a method involving orthogonalization of the eigenstate obtained in a trial. It is used as the Va for the next trial. Because of the orthogonal construction, Abrams-Lloyd algorithm will not repeat the eigenvalue measured earlier. Thus, all the eigenvalues are obtained in sequence without repetitions. An operator that anticommutes
with a unitary operator orthogonalizes the eigenvectors of the unitary. We implemented the method on the programming language model of quantum computation and tested it on a unitary matrix representing the time evolution operator of a small spin chain. All the eigenvalues of the operator
were obtained sequentially. Another use of the first eigenvector from Abrams-Lloyd algorithm is preparing a state that is the uniform superposition of all the eigenvectors. This is possible by nonorthogonalizing the first eigenvector in all dimensions and then applying the Abrams-Lloyd algorithm steps stopping short of the last measurement.
Loranthus micranthusLinn.: Biological Activities and Phytochemistry
Authors: Zorofchian Moghadamtousi Soheil , Hajrezaei Maryam , Abdul Kadir Habsah , Zandi Keivan
Published: September 2013

Loranthus micranthusLinn. is a medicinal plant from the Loranthaceae family commonly known as an eastern Nigeria species of the African mistletoe and is widely used in folkloric medicine to cure various ailments and diseases. It is semiparasitic plant because of growing on various host trees and shrubs and absorbing mineral nutrition and water from respective host. Hence, the phytochemicals and biological activities ofL. micranthusdemonstrated strong host and harvesting period dependency. The leaves have been proved to possess immunomodulatory, antidiabetic, antimicrobial, antihypertensive, antioxidant, antidiarrhoeal, and hypolipidemic activities. This review summarizes the information and findings concerning the current knowledge on the biological activities, pharmacological properties, toxicity, and chemical constituents ofLoranthus micranthus.
Study on Europium-Doped Hydroxyapatite Nanoparticles by Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy and Their Antimicrobial Properties
Authors: Iconaru Simona-Liliana , Motelica-Heino Mikael , Predoi Daniela
Published: September 2013

Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR) analysis was conducted on europium-doped hydroxyapatite,Ca10-xEux(PO4)6(OH)2nanocrystalline powders (Eu:HAp) with0≤xEu≤0.2. Antimicrobial studies were also performed for the first time on Eu:HAp. The antimicrobial properties of Eu:HAp nanoparticles with0≤xEu≤0.2on Gram-negative (E. coli ATCC 25922,Pseudomonas aeruginosa 1397) and Gram-positive (Staphylococcus aureus 0364,Enterococcus faecalis ATCC 29212) bacteria systems and a species of fungus (Candida albicans ATCC 10231) were reported. Our study demonstrates that the antimicrobial activity of Eu:HAp nanoparticles is dependent on the europium concentration.
Implication for Bone Marrow Derived Stem Cells in Hepatocyte Regeneration after Orthotopic Liver Transplantation
Authors: Pilat N. , Unger L. , Berlakovich G. A.
Published: September 2013

The liver has the outstanding ability to regenerate itself and restore parenchymal tissue after injury. The most common cell source in liver growth/regeneration is replication of preexisting hepatocytes although liver progenitor cells have been postulated to participate in liver regeneration in cases of massive injury. Bone marrow derived hematopoietic stem cells (BM-HSC) have the formal capacity to act as a source for hepatic regeneration under special circumstances; however, the impact of this process in liver tissue maintenance and regeneration remains controversial. Whether BM-HSC are involved in liver regeneration or not would be of particular interest as the cells have been suggested to be an alternative donor source for the treatment of liver failure. Data from murine models of liver disease show that BM-HSC can repopulate liver tissue and restore liver function; however, data obtained from human liver transplantation show only little evidence for liver regeneration by this mechanism. The cell source for liver regeneration seems to depend on the nature of regeneration process and the extent of injury; however, the precise mechanisms still need to be resolved. Current data suggest, that in human orthotopic liver transplantation, liver regeneration by BM-HSC is a rather rare event and therefore not of clinical relevance.
Role of the Promoter Polymorphism IL-6 −174G/C in Dermatomyositis and Systemic Lupus Erythematosus
Authors: Hristova Maria , Dourmishev Lyubomir , Kamenarska Zornitsa , Nikolova Svetla , Kaneva Radka , Vinkov Anton , Baleva Marta , Monova Daniela , Mitev Vanio
Published: September 2013

The promoter polymorphism −174G/C within the interleukin-6 gene (IL-6) has been reported to have a functional importance through the modulation of IL-6 gene expression in vitro and in vivo. IL-6 is thought to play an important role in autoimmune diseases and the effect of its receptor inhibitor—tocilizumab—has been recently studied. The aim of this case-control study was to investigate the association between the interleukin-6 −174G/C single nucleotide polymorphism and the susceptibility to dermatomyositis (DM) and systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) in Bulgarian patients. Altogether, 87 patients—52 with SLE and 35 with DM—as well as 80 unrelated healthy controls were included in this study. All of them were analyzed by restriction fragment length polymorphism analysis (RFLP). The GG genotype and the G allele appeared to be associated with SLE, especially in women. None of the genotypes showed an association with DM. However, the G allele appeared to be associated with muscle weakness and it is a risk factor for elevated muscle enzymes. Our results indicate that IL-6 −174G/C polymorphism might be associated with the susceptibility to SLE especially in women. Although it is not associated with DM, it seems that IL-6 −174G/C polymorphism could modulate some clinical features in the autoimmune myopathies.
Effect of Supracervical Apposition and Spontaneous Labour on Apoptosis and Matrix Metalloproteinases in Human Fetal Membranes
Authors: Chai Mahalia , Walker Susan P. , Riley Clyde , Rice Gregory E. , Permezel Michael , Lappas Martha
Published: September 2013

Background. Apoptosis and matrix metalloproteinase (MMP-9) are capable of hydrolysing components of the extracellular matrix and weakening the fetal membranes which leads to eventual rupture, a key process of human parturition. The aim of this study was to determine the effect of supracervical apposition and spontaneous labour on apoptosis and MMP-9 in human fetal membranes at term.Methods. Fetal membranes were obtained from term non-labouring supracervical site (SCS) and compared to (i) a paired distal site (DS) or (ii) site of rupture (SOR) after spontaneous labour onset.Results. The expression of the proapoptotic markers Bax, Smac, Fas, FasL, caspase-3, and PARP, was significantly higher in the non-labouring SCS chorion compared to paired DS. Bax, Smac, FasL, caspase-3, and PARP staining was higher in the non-labouring SCS fetal membranes than that in the post-labour SOR. MMP-9 expression and activity were higher in the post-labour SOR fetal membranes compared to non-labouring SCS fetal membranes.Conclusion. Components of the apoptotic signalling pathways and MMP-9 may play a role in rupture and labour. Non-labouring SCS fetal membranes display altered morphology and altered apoptotic biochemical characteristics in preparation for labour, while the laboured SOR displays unique MMP characteristics.
An Investigation of Nanocrystalline and Electrochemically Grown Cu2ZnSnS4Thin Film Using Redox Couples of Different Band Offset
Authors: Sarswat Prashant K. , Free Michael L. , Kumar Gagan
Published: September 2013

Alternative electrolytes were examined to evaluate photoelectrochemical response of Cu2ZnSnS4films at different biasing potential. Selections of the electrolytes were made on the basis of relative Fermi level position and standard reduction potential. Our search was focused on some cost-effective electrolytes, which can produce good photocurrent during illumination. Thin films were grown on FTO substrate using ink of nanocrystalline Cu2ZnSnS4particles as well as electrodeposition-elevated temperature sulfurization approach. Our investigations suggest that photoelectrochemical response is mostly due to conduction band-mediated process. Surface topography and phase purity were investigated after each electrochemical test, in order to evaluate film quality and reactivity of electrolytes. Raman examination of film and nanocrystals was conducted for comparison. The difference in photocurrent response was explained due to various parameters such as change in charge transfer rate constant, presence of dangling bond, difference in concentration of adsorbed species in electrode.
Adsorptive Cathodic Stripping Voltammetric Determination of Cefoperazone in Bulk Powder, Pharmaceutical Dosage Forms, and Human Urine
Authors: Hoang Vu Dang , Huyen Dao Thi , Phuc Phan Hong
Published: September 2013

The electroreduction behaviour and determination of cefoperazone using a hanging mercury drop electrode were investigated. Cyclic voltammograms of cefoperazone recorded in universal Britton-Robinson buffers pH 3–6 exhibited a single irreversible cathodic peak. The process was adsorption-controlled. Britton-Robinson buffer 0.04 M pH 4.0 was selected as a supporting electrolyte for quantitative purposes by differential pulse and square wave adsorptive cathodic stripping voltammetry. The experimental voltammetric conditions were optimized using Central Composite Face design. A reduction wave was seen in the range from −0.7 to −0.8 V. These voltammetric techniques were successfully validated as per ICH guidelines and applied for the determination of cefoperazone in its single and sulbactam containing powders for injection and statistically comparable to USP-HPLC. They were further extended to determine cefoperazone in spiked human urine with no matrix effect.
Evaluation of a New Lipase fromStaphylococcussp. for Detergent Additive Capability
Authors: Chauhan Mamta , Chauhan Rajinder Singh , Garlapati Vijay Kumar
Published: September 2013

Lipases are the enzymes of choice for laundry detergent industries owing to their triglyceride removing ability from the soiled fabric which eventually reduces the usage of phosphate-based chemical cleansers in the detergent formulation. In the present study, a partially purified bacterial lipase fromStaphylococcus arlettaeJPBW-1 isolated from the rock salt mine has been assessed for its triglyceride removing ability by developing a presoak solution so as to use lipase as an additive in laundry detergent formulations. The effects of selected surfactants, commercial detergents, and oxidizing agents on lipase stability were studied in a preliminary evaluation for its further usage in the industrial environment. Partially purified lipase has shown good stability in presence of surfactants, commercial detergents, and oxidizing agents. Washing efficiency has been found to be enhanced while using lipase with 0.5% nonionic detergent than the anioinic detergent. The wash performance using 0.5% wheel with 40 U lipase at 40°C in 45 min results in maximum oil removal (62%) from the soiled cotton fabric. Hence, the present study opens the new era in enzyme-based detergent sector for formulation of chemical-free detergent using alkaline bacterial lipase.
A High-Efficient Multi-Output Mixed Dynamic/Static Single-Bit Adder Cell
Authors: Mehrabi Shima , Faghih Mirzaee Reza , Navi Keivan , Hashemipour Omid
Published: September 2013

Dynamic logic is a well-known logic style which is widely used in digital electronics. A mixed dynamic/static full adder cell is presented in this paper with the aim of reaching high efficiency. The midoutputs are obtained from a Multi-output dynamic module. Then, a multiplexer generates final outputs in the static part. Several conventional and state-of-the-art dynamic adders are also surveyed and compared in the paper. All circuits are simulated by HSPICE with 32 nm CNFET technology. The proposed design is the fastest dynamic adder cell. In addition, it has approximately 5% higher efficiency in terms of PDP than the second most high-performance cell, which is DDCVS.
Immunomodulatory Effects of Adipose-Derived Stem Cells: Fact or Fiction?
Authors: Leto Barone Angelo A. , Khalifian Saami , Lee W. P. Andrew , Brandacher Gerald
Published: September 2013

Adipose-derived stromal cells (ASCs) are often referred to as adipose-derived stem cells due to their potential to undergo multilineage differentiation. Their promising role in tissue engineering and ability to modulate the immune system are the focus of extensive research. A number of clinical trials using ASCs are currently underway to better understand the role of such cell niche in enhancing or suppressing the immune response. If governable, such immunoregulatory role would find application in several conditions in which an immune response is present (i.e., autoimmune conditions) or feared (i.e., solid organ or reconstructive transplantation). Although allogeneic ASCs have been shown to prevent acute GvHD in both preclinical and clinical studies, their potential warrants further investigation. Well-designed and standardized clinical trials are necessary to prove the role of ASCs in the treatment of immune disorders or prevention of tissue rejection. In this paper we analyze the current literature on the role of ASCs in immunomodulationin vitroandin vivoand discuss their potential in regulating the immune system in the context of transplantation.
Schmidt Reaction of E‐3‐Benzylidenechromanones and E‐3‐Benzylidenethiochromanones
Authors: Mandal Tapas K. , Pal Rammohan , Mondal Rina , Dey Sankar P. , Mallik Asok K.
Published: September 2013

On treatment with NaN3/c. H2SO4‐HOAc or NaN3/TFA, E‐3‐benzylidenechromanones are mostly converted to E‐β‐aminobenzylidenechromanones while E‐3‐benzylidenethiochromanones are converted to 3‐benzoylthiochromones. A structurally new type of product has been isolated for the reaction of E‐3‐benzylidene‐4′‐methoxychromanone with NaN3/TFA. Mechanistic paths have been suggested for formation of the products.
A Mathematical Modeling of Resonances of the Nonlinear Tilted Support Spring System under Harmonic Excitation
Authors: Wu Meiping , Wang Yun , Zhang Chaofeng
Published: September 2013

A novel nonlinear tilted support spring damping system is proposed in this paper. The nonlinear dynamic equation is developed under the foundation displacement excitation and the resonance frequency of the system is also analyzed. Furthermore, different support angles affecting the vibration amplitude and the natural frequency of the system are researched. The model of the tilted support spring damping system is analyzed by ANSYS, and modal analysis and harmonic response analysis are made under harmonic excitation. The study shows that the supporting angle makes a great impact on the amplitude of the system and the response amplitude of the system is also reduced with the decrease of support angle. Through the analysis and comparison of the example, it provides a theoretical basis of the analysis for the tilted support spring damping system support angle’s optimal design.
On the Failure and Fracture of Polymer Foam Containing Discontinuities
Authors: Kidane Addis
Published: September 2013

An experimental study is performed to investigate the tensile failure and fracture behavior of polymer foam containing discontinuities. PVC corecell foam, series A800 and A1200 is used for the investigation. Unnotched dog-bone specimen and specimens with center hole and edge cracks are tested under uniaxial tensile loading. Series of experiments are conducted at different defect size to width ratios, and the effect of the defect size on the net-section tensile strength of the foam is investigated. A fracture study is also conducted, and the effect of density and loading rate on the fracture behavior of foam is investigated. A minimal notch-strengthening effect is observed in specimens with center hole, and a notch-weakening effect is observed in specimen with edge notches. Furthermore, the fracture toughness increases with the increase in the foam density and decreases with the increase in loading rate.
The StartReact Effect on Self-Initiated Movements
Authors: Castellote J. M. , Van den Berg M. E. L. , Valls-Solé J.
Published: September 2013

Preparation of the motor system for movement execution involves an increase in excitability of motor pathways. In a reaction time task paradigm, a startling auditory stimulus (SAS) delivered together with the imperative signal (IS) shortens reaction time significantly. In self-generated tasks we considered that an appropriately timed SAS would have similar effects. Eight subjects performed a ballistic wrist extension in two blocks: reaction, in which they responded to a visual IS, and action, in which they moved when they wished within a predetermined time window. In 20–25% of the trials, a SAS was applied. We recorded electromyographic activity of wrist extension and wrist movement kinematic variables. No effects of SAS were observed in action trials when movement was performed before or long after SAS application. However, a cluster of action trials was observed within 200 ms after SAS. These trials showed larger EMG bursts, shorter movement time, shorter time to peak velocity, and higher peak velocity than other action trials (P<0.001for all), with no difference from Reaction trials containing SAS. The results show that SAS influences the execution of self-generated human actions as it does with preprogrammed reaction time tasks during the assumed building up of preparatory activity before execution of the willed motor action.
Regioselective Synthesis of Dispiro Pyrrolizidines as Potent Antimicrobial Agents for Human Pathogens
Authors: Sirisha N. , Raghunathan R.
Published: September 2013

Synthesis of a series of novel dispiro pyrrolizidines has been accomplished by 1,3-dipolar cycloaddition reaction of azomethine ylide generated from secondary amino acids and diketones with bischalcones. These compounds were evaluated for their antibacterial activity. Most of the synthetic compounds exhibited good antibacterial activity against microorganisms.
Real-Time Hardware-in-the-Loop Tests of Star Tracker Algorithms
Authors: Rufino Giancarlo , Accardo Domenico , Grassi Michele , Fasano Giancarmine , Renga Alfredo , Tancredi Urbano
Published: September 2013

This paper deals with star tracker algorithms validation based on star field scene simulation and hardware-in-the-loop test configuration. A laboratory facility for indoor tests, based on the simulation of star field scenes, is presented. Attainable performance is analyzed theoretically for both static and dynamic simulations. Also, a test campaign is presented, in which a star sensor prototype with real-time, fully autonomous capability is exploited. Results that assess star field scene simulation performance and show the achievable validation for the sensor algorithms and performance in different operating modes (autonomous attitude acquisition, attitude tracking, and angular rate-only) and different aspects (coverage, reliability, and measurement performance) are discussed.
Dose- and Time-Dependent Apoptosis Induced by Avian H9N2 Influenza Virus in Human Cells
Authors: Shahsavandi Shahla , Ebrahimi Mohammad Majid , Sadeghi Kaveh , Mosavi Seyedeh Zahra , Mohammadi Ashraf
Published: September 2013

To understand human response to avian H9N2 influenza, we investigated the effects of the viral infection on A549, HepG2, and HeLa cells at low and high MOIs. To identify virus-host interplay, expression of Mx and NP genes was measured in the cells supernatants. Cell viability and apoptosis were evaluated by MTT assay, DNA fragmentation, and florescent staining. The virus titration and NP gene transcript levels indicate lower susceptibility of HeLa cell to H9N2 replication than other cells. Although H9N2 did produce a faster CPE in HepG2, high dose of the virus induced apoptosis within early stage of A549 infection. The DNA laddering was enhanced in the cell correlated with increase in virus transcripts. The undetectable to different regulation levels of Mx gene were observed in response to H9N2 infection suggesting that an insufficient antiviral defense in the noncompetent-IFN HepG2 cell promotes efficient viral replication. These results showed that the permissivity of HepG2 for H9N2 is comparable with A549; however, liver cells are not target tissue respond to the infection. These data revealed that the H9N2 virus induced apoptosis signaling via mitochondrial pathway in human alveolar epithelial cells, indicating that the induction may be associated with a dose-dependent manner.
Association of Obesity-Mediated Insulin Resistance and Hypothalamic Volumes: Possible Sex Differences
Authors: Ha Jenny , Cohen Jessica I. , Tirsi Aziz , Convit Antonio
Published: September 2013

The hypothalamus is important in hunger and metabolism. Although a lot is known about the basic role of the human hypothalamus, less is known about how thein vivovolume is affected in obesity, particularly among adolescents. Based on pediatric body mass index percentiles, 95 participants were assigned to lean or obese groups. All subjects had medical evaluations, including fasting blood tests, to assess insulin sensitivity and circulating CRP and neurotrophins (NGF and BDNF) and an MRI of the brain. Hypothalamic volumes were measured by a segmentation method combining manual and automated steps. Overall, obese participants had descriptively smaller hypothalamic volumes, although this difference did not reach statistical significance; however, among obese participants, females had significantly smaller hypothalamic volumes than their male counterparts. There was a significant interaction between insulin resistance and sex on hypothalamus volume; obese females with significant insulin resistance have smaller hypothalamic volumes than obese males. Obese adolescents had higher circulating CRP and neurotrophin levels. Furthermore, among obese females, BDNF concentrations were inversely associated with hypothalamus volumes (r=−0.48). Given this negative association between BDNF and hypothalamus volumes among obese insulin-resistant females, elevated neurotrophin levels may suggest an attempt at protective compensation.
Extensive Differences in Antifungal Immune Response in TwoDrosophilaSpecies Revealed by Comparative Transcriptome Analysis
Authors: Seto Yosuke , Tamura Koichiro
Published: September 2013

The innate immune system ofDrosophilais activated by ingestion of microorganisms.D. melanogasterbreeds on fruits fermented bySaccharomyces cerevisiae, whereasD. virilisbreeds on slime flux and decaying bark of tree housing a variety of bacteria, yeasts, and molds. In this study, it is shown thatD. virilishas a higher resistance to oral infection of a species of filamentous fungi belonging to the genusPenicilliumcompared toD. melanogaster. In response to the fungal infection, a transcriptome profile of immune-related genes was considerably different betweenD. melanogasterandD. virilis: the genes encoding antifungal peptides, Drosomycin and Metchnikowin, were highly expressed inD. melanogasterwhereas, the genes encoding Diptericin and Defensin were highly expressed inD. virilis. On the other hand, the immune-induced molecule (IM) genes showed contrary expression patterns between the two species: they were induced by the fungal infection inD. melanogasterbut tended to be suppressed inD. virilis. Our transcriptome analysis also showed newly predicted immune-related genes inD. virilis. These results suggest that the innate immune system has been extensively differentiated during the evolution of theseDrosophilaspecies.
Conservative Treatment of a Gossypiboma Causing Uterine Wound Dehiscence
Authors: Usta Taner A. , Yildirim Dogukan , Ozyurek Sefik E. , Gundogdu Elif C.
Published: September 2013

We present a rare case with gossypiboma following cesarean section which led to uterine wound dehiscence. A 30-year-old woman had been submitted to an emergency cesarean section 4 months previously at another hospital. Clinical and ultrasound findings revealed a large intra-abdominal mass and diffuse peritonitis. At laparotomy, a gossypiboma causing an abscess and uterine wound dehiscence with necrosis of the margins was detected. We performed repetitive wound debridements under broad-spectrum antibiotic cover and eventually resutured the incision. Although hysterectomy has so far been the choice of treatment in the literature once a uterine wound dehiscence had occurred, it was possible in this case to preserve the uterus.