bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Enterococcal Sex Pheromones: Signaling, Social Behavior, and Evolution
Authors: Dunny Gary M.
Published: September 2013

In Enterococcus faecalis, lateral transfer of conjugative plasmids that encode antibiotic resistance and virulence determinants can be induced by peptide sex pheromones. The tetracycline-resistance plasmid pCF10 represents a paradigm for illustrating important conserved features of a large family of pheromone-responsive enterococcal plasmids. The pheromone is released into the growth medium by plasmid-free recipient cells and sensed by plasmid-containing donors. The activity of the pheromone is antagonized by a plasmid-encoded inhibitor peptide that prevents conjugation in the absence of an inducing signal and is also required to return the system to the ground state following an induction cycle. The pheromone response involves multiple transcriptional and posttranscriptional mechanisms as well as bi-stable biological switch behavior. Multiple layers of regulation are essential for proper function, and evolution of this tight control system may have been favored by reduction of the fitness cost of plasmid maintenance to the host cell.
Targeting Multidrug Resistance Protein 1 (MRP1, ABCC1): Past, Present, and Future
Authors: Cole Susan P.C.
Published: September 2013

The human ATP-binding cassette transporter multidrug resistance protein 1 (MRP1), encoded by ABCC1, was initially identified because of its ability to confer multidrug resistance in lung cancer cells. It is now established that MRP1 plays a role in protecting certain tissues from xenobiotic insults and that it mediates the cellular efflux of the proinflammatory cysteinyl leukotriene C4 as well as a vast array of other endo- and xenobiotic organic anions. Many of these are glutathione (GSH) or glucuronide conjugates, the products of Phase II drug metabolism. MRP1 also plays a role in the cellular efflux of the reduced and oxidized forms of GSH and thus contributes to the many physiological and pathophysiological processes influenced by these small peptides, including oxidative stress. In this review, the pharmacological and physiological aspects of MRP1 are considered in the context of the current status and future prospects of pharmacological and genetic modulation of MRP1 activity.
Properties of the Internal Clock: First- and Second-Order Principles of Subjective Time
Authors: Allman Melissa J. , Teki Sundeep , Griffiths Timothy D. , Meck Warren H.
Published: September 2013

Humans share with other animals an ability to measure the passage of physical time and subjectively experience a sense of time passing. Subjective time has hallmark qualities, akin to other senses, which can be accounted for by formal, psychological, and neurobiological models of the internal clock. These include first-order principles, such as changes in clock speed and how temporal memories are stored, and second-order principles, including timescale invariance, multisensory integration, rhythmical structure, and attentional time-sharing. Within these principles there are both typical individual differences—influences of emotionality, thought speed, and psychoactive drugs—and atypical differences in individuals affected with certain clinical disorders (e.g., autism, Parkinson's disease, and schizophrenia). This review summarizes recent behavioral and neurobiological findings and provides a theoretical framework for considering how changes in the properties of the internal clock impact time perception and other psychological domains.
I Study What I Stink At: Lessons Learned from a Career in Psychology
Authors: Sternberg Robert J.
Published: September 2013

I describe what I have learned from a rather long career in psychology. My goal is to aid those younger than I to learn from my experience and avoid my mistakes. I discuss topics such as the damage that self-fulfilling prophecies can do, the importance of resilience, the need to overcome fear of failure, the importance of being flexible in one's goals and changing them as needed, the relevance of professional ethics, and the need to be wise and not just smart. In the end, we and our work are forgotten very quickly and one should realize that, after retirement, it likely will be one's family, not one's professional network, that provides one's main source of support and comfort.
A Phenotypic Null Hypothesis for the Genetics of Personality
Authors: Turkheimer Eric , Pettersson Erik , Horn Erin E.
Published: September 2013

We review the genetically informed literature on the genetics of personality. Over the past century, quantitative genetic studies, using identical and fraternal twins, have demonstrated that differences in human personality are substantially heritable. We focus on more contemporary questions to which that basic observation has led. We examine whether differences in the heritability of personality are replicable across different traits, samples, and studies; how the heritability of personality relates to its reliability; and how behavior genetics can be employed in studies of validity, and we discuss the stability of personality in genetic and environmental variance. The appropriate null hypothesis in behavior genetics is not that genetic or environmental influence on personality is zero. Instead, we offer a phenotypic null hypothesis, which states that genetic variance is not an independent mechanism of individual differences in personality but rather a reflection of processes that are best conceptualized at the phenotypic level.
Postural effects on intracranial pressure: modeling and clinical evaluation
Authors: Qvarlander Sara , Sundström Nina , Malm Jan , Eklund Anders
Published: September 2013

The physiological effect of posture on intracranial pressure (ICP) is not well described. This study defined and evaluated three mathematical models describing the postural effects on ICP, designed to predict ICP at different head-up tilt angles from the supine ICP value. Model I was based on a hydrostatic indifference point for the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) system, i.e., the existence of a point in the system where pressure is independent of body position. Models II and III were based on Davson's equation for CSF absorption, which relates ICP to venous pressure, and postulated that gravitational effects within the venous system are transferred to the CSF system. Model II assumed a fully communicating venous system, and model III assumed that collapse of the jugular veins at higher tilt angles creates two separate hydrostatic compartments. Evaluation of the models was based on ICP measurements at seven tilt angles (0–71°) in 27 normal pressure hydrocephalus patients. ICP decreased with tilt angle (ANOVA: P < 0.01). The reduction was well predicted by model III (ANOVA lack-of-fit: P = 0.65), which showed excellent fit against measured ICP. Neither model I nor II adequately described the reduction in ICP (ANOVA lack-of-fit: P < 0.01). Postural changes in ICP could not be predicted based on the currently accepted theory of a hydrostatic indifference point for the CSF system, but a new model combining Davson's equation for CSF absorption and hydrostatic gradients in a collapsible venous system performed well and can be useful in future research on gravity and CSF physiology.
Microparticles generated by decompression stress cause central nervous system injury manifested as neurohypophysial terminal action potential broadening
Authors: Yang Ming , Kosterin Paul , Salzberg Brian M. , Milovanova Tatyana N. , Bhopale Veena M. , Thom Stephen R.
Published: September 2013

The study goal was to use membrane voltage changes during neurohypophysial action potential (AP) propagation as an index of nerve function to evaluate the role that circulating microparticles (MPs) play in causing central nervous system injury in response to decompression stress in a murine model. Mice studied 1 h following decompression from 790 kPa air pressure for 2 h exhibit a 45% broadening of the neurohypophysial AP. Broadening did not occur if mice were injected with the MP lytic agent polyethylene glycol telomere B immediately after decompression, were rendered thrombocytopenic, or were treated with an inhibitor of nitric oxide synthase-2 (iNOS) prior to decompression, or in knockout (KO) mice lacking myeloperoxidase or iNOS. If MPs were harvested from control (no decompression) mice and injected into naive mice, no AP broadening occurred, but AP broadening was observed with injections of equal numbers of MPs from either wild-type or iNOS KO mice subjected to decompression stress. Although not required for AP broadening, MPs from decompressed mice, but not control mice, exhibit NADPH oxidase activation. We conclude that inherent differences in MPs from decompressed mice, rather than elevated MPs numbers, mediate neurological injury and that a component of the perivascular response to MPs involves iNOS. Additional study is needed to determine the mechanism of AP broadening and also mechanisms for MP generation associated with exposure to elevated gas pressure.
Laser Doppler Blood-Flow Signals from Human Teeth during an Alignment and Leveling Movement Using a Superelastic Archwire
Authors: Salles Alvaro Wagner Rodrigues , Salles Adriana Mirian Cotrim , Nogueira Gessé Eduardo Calvo
Published: September 2013

Objective. The purpose of this study was to examine alterations in blood-flow signals (BFS) from human teeth during an alignment and leveling phase (superelastic wire 0.014′′) in a clinical orthodontic treatment using laser doppler flowmetry (LDF).Materials and Methods. Recordings were made in 12 maxillary left central incisors. The basal value of the BFS from each tooth (without orthodontic forces) was compared with the corresponding values of BFS during four periods of observation: 20 minutes, 48 hours, 72 hours, and one month after the activation of the orthodontic appliance.Results. Statistically significant decrease of BFS was observed at 20 minutes, 48 hours, and 72 hours(P<0.05). No differences were found comparing BFS on day 30 and the corresponding basal values.Conclusion. Under real clinical conditions, a significant decrease in BFS was verified during the initial phase of the treatment, followed by a recovery on day 30.
Interdisciplinary Approach to Tool-Handle Design Based on Medical Imaging
Authors: Harih G. , Čretnik A.
Published: September 2013

Products are becoming increasingly complex; therefore, designers are faced with a challenging task to incorporate new functionality, higher performance, and optimal shape design. Traditional user-centered design techniques such as designing with anthropometric data do not incorporate enough subject data to design products with optimal shape for best fit to the target population. To overcome these limitations, we present an interdisciplinary approach with medical imaging. The use of this approach is being presented on the development of an optimal sized and shaped tool handle where the hand is imaged using magnetic resonance imaging machine. The obtained images of the hand are reconstructed and imported into computer-aided design software, where optimal shape of the handle is obtained with Boolean operations. Methods can be used to develop fully customized products with optimal shape to provide best fit to the target population. This increases subjective comfort rating, performance and can prevent acute and cumulative trauma disorders. Provided methods are especially suited for products where high stresses and exceptional performance is expected (high performance tools, professional sports, and military equipment, etc.). With the use of these interdisciplinary methods, the value of the product is increased, which also increases the competitiveness of the product on the market.
Hot-Dip Aluminizing of Low Carbon Steel Using Al-7Si-2Cu Alloy Baths
Authors: Huilgol Prashanth , Bhat Suma , Bhat K. Udaya
Published: September 2013

Hot-dip aluminizing of low carbon steel was done in molten Al-7Si-2Cu bath at 690°C for dipping time ranging from 300 to 2400 seconds. Characterization of the intermetallics layer was done by using scanning electron microscope with energy dispersive spectroscopy. Four intermetallic phases, τ5-Al7Fe2Si, θ-FeAl3, η-Fe2Al5, and τ1-Al2Fe3Si3, were identified in the reaction layer. τ5- Al7Fe2Si phase was observed adjacent to aluminum-silicon topcoat, θ-FeAl3 between τ5 and η-Fe2Al5, η-Fe2Al5 adjacent to base material, and τ1-Al2Fe3Si3 precipitates within Fe2Al5 layer. The average thickness of Fe2Al5 layer increased linearly with square root of dipping time, while for the rest of the layers such relationship was not observed. The tongue-like morphology of Fe2Al5 layer was more pronounced at higher dipping time. Overall intermetallic layer thickness was following parabolic relationship with dipping time.
Assessment of Pulse Oximeter Perfusion Index in Pediatric Caudal Block under Basal Ketamine Anesthesia
Authors: Xu Zifeng , Zhang Jianhai , Shen Hao , Zheng Jijian
Published: September 2013

Whether pulse oximeter perfusion index (PI) may be applied to detect the
onset of caudal block in pediatric patients under ketamine intravenous basal anesthesia is investigated. 40 ASA I, 2–8‐year‐old boys
scheduled for elective circumcision surgery were randomized into two groups.
Group I: 20 patients were anesthetized by 2 mg·kg−1 ketamine intravenous injection (IV) followed by
caudal block using 1 mL·kg−1 lidocaine (1%); Group II: 20 patients were anesthetized by 2 mg·kg−1 ketamine IV only.
PI on the toe in Group II decreased by 33 ± 12%, 71 ± 9% and 65 ± 8% at 1 min, 15 min,
and 30 min after ketamine injection. The maximum increase in MAP and HR after ketamine IV
was 11 ± 6% at 3 min and 10 ± 6% at 2 min. Compared to the PI value before caudal injection of lidocaine,
PI in Group I increased by 363 ± 318% and 778 ± 578% at 5 min and 20 min after caudal block,
while no significant changes in MAP and HR were found compared to the baseline before caudal block.
Thus, PI provides an earlier, more objective, and more sensitive indicator to assess the early onset of caudal block under basal ketamine anesthesia.
Sickle Cell Disease: New Opportunities and Challenges in Africa
Authors: Makani J. , Ofori-Acquah S. F. , Nnodu O. , Wonkam A. , Ohene-Frempong K.
Published: September 2013

Sickle cell disease (SCD) is one of the most common genetic causes of illness and death in the world. This is a review of SCD in Africa, which bears the highest burden of disease. The first section provides an introduction to the molecular basis of SCD and the pathophysiological mechanism of selected clinical events. The second section discusses the epidemiology of the disease (prevalence, morbidity, and mortality), at global level and within Africa. The third section discusses the laboratory diagnosis and management of SCD, emphasizing strategies that been have proven to be effective in areas with limited resources. Throughout the review, specific activities that require evidence to guide healthcare in Africa, as well as strategic areas for further research, will be highlighted.
Clinical Evaluation and Cost-Effectiveness Analysis of Serum Tumor Markers in Lung Cancer
Authors: Wang Rong , Wang Guoqing , Zhang Nan , Li Xue , Liu Yunde
Published: September 2013

The detection of serum tumor markers is valuable for the early diagnosis of lung cancer. Tumor markers are frequently used for the management of cancer patients. However, single markers are less efficient but marker combinations increase the cost, which is troublesome for clinics. To find an optimal serum marker combination panel that benefits the patients and the medical management system as well, four routine lung cancer serum markers (SCCA, NSE, CEA, and CYFRA21-1) were evaluated individually and in combination. Meanwhile, the costs and effects of these markers in clinical practice in China were assessed by cost-effectiveness analysis. As expected, combinations of these tumor markers improved their sensitivity for lung cancer and different combination panels had their own usefulness. NSE + CEA + CYFRA21-1 was the optimal combination panel with highest Youden’s index (0.64), higher sensitivity (75.76%), and specificity (88.57%), which can aid the clinical diagnosis of lung cancer. Nevertheless, the most cost-effective combination was SCCA + CEA, which can be used to screen the high-risk group.
The Long-Time Behavior of the Ricci Tensor under the Ricci Flow
Authors: Hilaire Christian
Published: September 2013

We show that, given an immortal solution to the Ricci flow on a closed manifold with uniformly bounded curvature and diameter, the Ricci tensor goes to zero as . We also show that if there exists an immortal solution on a closed 3-dimensional manifold such that the product of the curvature and the square of the diameter is uniformly bounded, then this solution must be of type III.
Biological Pretreatment of Rubberwood withCeriporiopsis subvermisporafor Enzymatic Hydrolysis and Bioethanol Production
Authors: Nazarpour Forough , Abdullah Dzulkefly Kuang , Abdullah Norhafizah , Motedayen Nazila , Zamiri Reza
Published: September 2013

Rubberwood (Hevea brasiliensis), a potential raw material for bioethanol production due to its high cellulose content, was used as a novel feedstock for enzymatic hydrolysis and bioethanol production using biological pretreatment. To improve ethanol production, rubberwood was pretreated with white rot fungusCeriporiopsis subvermisporato increase fermentation efficiency. The effects of particle size of rubberwood (1 mm, 0.5 mm, and 0.25 mm) and pretreatment time on the biological pretreatment were first determined by chemical analysis and X-ray diffraction and their best condition obtained with 1 mm particle size and 90 days pretreatment. Further morphological study on rubberwood with 1 mm particle size pretreated by fungus was performed by FT-IR spectra analysis and SEM observation and the result indicated the ability of this fungus for pretreatment. A study on enzymatic hydrolysis resulted in an increased sugar yield of 27.67% as compared with untreated rubberwood (2.88%). The maximum ethanol concentration and yield were 17.9 g/L and 53% yield, respectively, after 120 hours. The results obtained demonstrate that rubberwood pretreated byC. subvermisporacan be used as an alternative material for the enzymatic hydrolysis and bioethanol production.
Syntheses, Crystal Structures, Magnetic Behaviours, and Thermal Properties of Three Hydrogen‐Bonding Networks Containing Dicyanamide and 4‐Hydroxypyridine
Authors: Zheng Lingling
Published: September 2013

Three new dicyanamide‐bridged polymeric complexes of {[Mn(dca)2(L)2] · 2H2O} n (1), {[Cd(dca)2(L)2] · 2H2O} n (2), and {[Co(dca)2(L)2]2(L)} n (3) (dca = dicyanamide, L = pyridinium‐4‐olate) have been synthesized and structurally characterized. In the three compounds, the protons of hydroxyl groups of 4‐hydroxypyridine transfer to pyridyl nitrogen atoms. Compounds 1 and 2 are isomorphous forming one‐dimensional chains where metals are connected by double dca anions. These one‐dimensional chains are extended into two‐dimensional layers through weak C–H⋯N hydrogen bonds. Further, these layers are assembled into a three‐dimensional supramolecular network through N–H⋯O, O–H⋯O hydrogen bonds. Complex 3 is a coordination layer of (4, 4) topology with octahedral metal centers linked by four single μ1,5‐bridges. These layers are interlocked by N–H⋯O, O–H⋯O hydrogen bonds from coordinated water molecules and free L molecules, which leads to a three‐dimensional supramolecular architecture. The variable temperature magnetic susceptibilities measurement of compounds 1 and 3 shows the existence of weak antiferromagnetic interactions between the metal centers. The thermogravimetric analyses of the compounds 1–3 are also discussed.
Effect of Size and Shape on the Vibrational and Thermodynamic Properties of Nanomaterials
Authors: Kumar R. , Sharma G. , Kumar M.
Published: September 2013

A simple theoretical model is developed to study the size and shape dependence of vibrational and thermodynamic properties of nanomaterials. To show the real connection with the nanomaterials we have studied Debye temperature, Debye frequency, melting entropy, and enthalpy in different shapes, namely, spherical, nanowire, and nanofilm of -Fe, Sn, Ag, and In. The results obtained are compared with the experimental data. A good agreement between the model predictions and the experimental data supports the theory developed in the present paper.
Cognitive Dysfunction and Dementia in Primary Sjögren’s Syndrome
Authors: Blanc Frederic , Longato Nadine , Jung Barbara , Kleitz Catherine , Di Bitonto Laure , Cretin Benjamin , Collongues Nicolas , Sordet Christelle , Fleury Marie , Poindron Vincent , Gottenberg Jacques-Eric , Anne Olivier , Lipsker Dan , Martin Thierry , Sibilia Jean , de Seze Jérôme
Published: September 2013

Background. Primary Sjögren’s syndrome (PSS) is a frequent systemic autoimmune disease. In this study, we aimed to explore the cognitive impairment and the correlations with brain MRI. Methods. Twenty-five patients (mean age 55 ± 11.8 years, 21 females) with PSS were prospectively selected and tested with a French translation of the Brief Repeatable Battery for Neuropsychological Examination. The results were compared with the scores for 25 matched patients with multiple sclerosis (MS) and 25 controls. Brain lesions were assessed by brain MRI using the Wahlund classification. Results. Fifteen of the 25 PSS patients (60%) presented with cognitive disorders versus 19/25 MS patients (76%). Five patients had dementia in the PSS group. Speed of information processing, attention, immediate and long-term memory, and executive functions were frequently impaired. The mean duration of cognitive complaints was 5.6 ± 6.1 years, and the mean duration of PSS was 15.8 ± 14.0 years. A trend towards a correlation was found between the severity of cognitive impairment and the degree of white matter lesions (WML) (P=0.03, rho = 0.43). Conclusion. Cognitive impairment—mild or dementia—exists in patients with PSS. Further MRI studies are needed to better understand the precise neural basis of cognitive impairment in PSS patients.
Modeling of Hydrodynamics in a 25 mm ϕ Pulsed Disk and Doughnut Column
Authors: Kumar Rajnish , Sivakumar D. , Kumar Shekhar , Mudali U. Kamachi
Published: September 2013

The hydrodynamic parameters, namely, dispersed phase holdup and flooding throughput, have been investigated in 25 mm diameter pulsed disk and doughnut column (PDDC), in no mass transfer conditions. In this work, using existing correlations on plate pulsed columns, the dispersed phase holdup and the flooding throughput are empirically modelled well using the slip velocity concept. A good agreement is observed between experimental values and predicted values obtained from empirical correlation. The experimental data for dispersed phase holdup and flooding throughput has been modelled using the Van Delden model to describe the hydrodynamics characteristics of a PDDC and necessary adjustable parameters for drop size distribution and dispersed phase holdup are updated for 30% TBP-nitric acid system. The model parameters were estimated by minimizing the absolute error between experimental and theoretical values of flooding throughput and holdup data. It was found that the measured values and observed trends could be described accurately using this model after fitting holdup and flooding data. The error between the experimental and theoretical values of flooding throughput and holdup was found to be less than 10%.
Raspberry Extract as Both a Stabilizer and a Reducing Agent in Environmentally Friendly Process of Receiving Colloidal Silver
Authors: Pulit Jolanta , Banach Marcin , Zielina Michał , Laskowska Barbara , Kurleto Kamil
Published: September 2013

An ecofriendly method of nanosilver obtaining has been studied. The process involves the chemical reduction method carried out in aqueous environment. Silver nitrate (V) was applied as a silver ions source. Raspberry extract was used as a natural source of both reducing and stabilizing agents. The total amount of phenolic compounds was determined by the Folin‐Ciocalteu method. Obtained nanoparticles were analyzed by the dynamic light scattering technique so as to determine the particles size and suspension stability which was characterized by an electrokinetic potential. The results confirmed that the size of some nanoparticles was under 100 nm.
Synthesis, Characterization, and Thermal and Antimicrobial Activities of Some Novel Organotin(IV): Purine Base Complexes
Authors: Jain Reena , Singh Rajeev , Kaushik N. K.
Published: September 2013

A new series of organotin(IV) complexes with purine bases theophylline (HL1) and theobromine (L2) of the types R3Sn(L1), R2Sn(L1)Cl, R3Sn(L2)Cl, and R2Sn(L2)Cl2 (R = C6H5CH2–; p‐ClC6H4CH2–) have been synthesized in anhydrous THF. The complexes were characterized by elemental analysis, conductance measurements, molecular weight determinations, UV‐vis, IR, 1H, 13C NMR, and mass spectral studies. Various kinetic and thermodynamic parameters of these complexes have also been determined using TG/DTA technique. The thermal decomposition techniques indicate the formation of SnO2 as a residue. The results show that the ligands act as bidentate, forming a five‐member chelate ring. All the complexes are 1 : 1 metal‐ligand complexes. In order to assess their antimicrobial activity, the ligands and their corresponding complexes have also been tested in vitro against bacteria (E. coli, S. aureus, and P. pyocyanea) and fungi (Rhizopus oryzae and Aspergillus flavus). All the complexes exhibit remarkable activity, and the results provide evidence that the studied complexes might indeed be a potential source of antimicrobial agents.
Observer-Based Control Design for Nonlinear Networked Control Systems with Limited Information
Authors: Wang Yilin , Xiang Zhengrong , Karimi Hamid Reza
Published: September 2013

This paper is concerned with the problem of designing a robust observer-based controller for discrete-time networked systems with limited information. An improved networked control system model is proposed and the effects of random packet dropout, time-varying delay, and quantization are considered simultaneously. Based on the obtained model, a stability criterion is developed by constructing an appropriate Lyapunov-Krasovskii functional and sufficient conditions for the existence of a dynamic quantized output feedback controller which are given in terms of linear matrix inequalities (LMIs) such that the augmented error system is stochastically stable with an performance level. An example is presented to illustrate the effectiveness of the proposed method.
Nucleation Controlled Growth of Cadmium Oxalate Crystals in Agar Gel and Their Characterization
Authors: Dalal P. V.
Published: September 2013

Perfect single crystals of cadmium oxalate have been grown using the slow and controlled reaction between cadmium acetate and oxalic acid in agar gel media at ambient temperature, resulting in the formation of insoluble product Cd(COO)2. Different methods for growing crystals were adopted. The optimum conditions were employed in each method by varying the concentration of gel and reactants, gel setting time, and so forth. Prismatic, transparent single crystal about 20 times larger than the crystals obtained in various other methods at the interstitial by adding impurities in the gel was obtained. The grown crystals was characterized with the help of FT-IR studies and triclinic system of crystals were supported with lattice parameters a = 8.803 A0, b = 22.352 A0, c = 5.706 A0, α = 95.74 A0, β = 90.92 A0, γ = 117.01 A0, and V = 994.69 A03, calculated from X-ray diffractogram.
National Mesothelioma Virtual Bank: A Platform for Collaborative Research and Mesothelioma Biobanking Resource to Support Translational Research
Authors: Amin Waqas , Parwani Anil V. , Melamed Jonathan , Flores Raja , Pennathur Arjun , Valdivieso Federico , Whelan Nancy B. , Landreneau Rodeny , Luketich James , Feldman Michael , Pass Harvey I. , Becich Michael J.
Published: September 2013

The National Mesothelioma Virtual Bank (NMVB), developed six years ago, gathers clinically annotated human mesothelioma specimens for basic and clinical science research. During this period, this resource has greatly increased its collection of specimens by expanding the number of contributing academic health centers including New York University, University of Pennsylvania, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, and Mount Sinai School of Medicine. Marketing efforts at both national and international annual conferences increase awareness and availability of the mesothelioma specimens at no cost to approved investigators, who query the web-based NMVB database for cumulative and appropriate patient clinicopathological information on the specimens. The data disclosure and specimen distribution protocols are tightly regulated to maintain compliance with participating institutions’ IRB and regulatory committee reviews. The NMVB currently has over 1120 annotated cases available for researchers, including paraffin embedded tissues, fresh frozen tissue, tissue microarrays (TMA), blood samples, and genomic DNA. In addition, the resource offers expertise and assistance for collaborative research. Furthermore, in the last six years, the resource has provided hundreds of specimens to the research community. The investigators can request specimens and/or data by submitting a Letter of Intent (LOI) that is evaluated by NMVB research evaluation panel (REP).
Evaluation of the Presence of Endocrine-Disrupting Compounds in Dissolved and Solid Wastewater Treatment Plant Samples of Gran Canaria Island (Spain)
Authors: Vega-Morales T. , Sosa-Ferrera Z. , Santana-Rodríguez J. J.
Published: September 2013

Liquid and solid samples from two wastewater treatment plants (WWTPs) on Gran Canaria Island (Spain) have been tested for the presence of compounds with endocrine-disrupting properties. The selected degradation stages were sampled bimonthly from each WWTP over the 12-month period from July 2010 to July 2011. The analytical methods used for the determination of the endocrine-disrupting compounds (EDCs) were based on on-line solid phase extraction, microwave-assisted extraction (MAE), and ultrasonic-assisted extraction (UAE) coupled to UHPLC-MS/MS. All of the hyphenated methodologies employed in this work showed good recoveries (72–104%) and sensitivities, with LODs lower than 7.0 ng L−1and 6.3 ng g−1for the dissolved and solid fractions, respectively. We have also evaluated the estrogenicity of the samples in terms of their estradiol equivalent concentrations (EEQs). The chemical analysis of the selected EDCs revealed fairly low concentrations for both natural and synthetic oestrogens, alkylphenolic compounds, and bisphenol-A in each of the dissolved, particulate, and sludge samples (ng L−1or ng g−1). However, the estimated estrogenic activity indicated that the majority of samples could represent an important environmental risk, clearly surpassing the threshold to exert deleterious consequences on living beings.
Synthesis of Alginate-Curcumin Nanocomposite and Its Protective Role in TransgenicDrosophilaModel of Parkinson’s Disease
Authors: Siddique Yasir Hasan , Khan Wasi , Singh Braj Raj , Naqvi Alim H.
Published: September 2013

The genetic models inDrosophilaprovide a platform to understand the mechanism associated with degenerative diseases. The model for Parkinson's disease (PD) based on normal human alpha-synuclein (αS) expression was used in the present study. The aggregation ofαS in brain leads to the formation of Lewy bodies and selective loss of dopaminergic neurons due to oxidative stress. Polyphenols generally have the reduced oral bioavailability, increased metabolic turnover, and lower permeability through the blood brain barrier. In the present study, the effect of synthesized alginate-curcumin nanocomposite was studied on the climbing ability of the PD model flies, lipid peroxidation, and apoptosis in the brain of PD model flies. The alginate-curcumin nanocomposite at final doses of 10−5, 10−3, and 10−1 g/mL was supplemented with diet, and the flies were allowed to feed for 24 days. A significant dose-dependent delay in the loss of climbing ability and reduction in the oxidative stress and apoptosis in the brain of PD model flies were observed. The results suggest that alginate-curcumin nanocomposite is potent in delaying the climbing disability of PD model flies and also reduced the oxidative stress as well as apoptosis in the brain of PD model flies.
Zonisamide Induces Crystalluria without Urinary pH Changes in Children and Young Adults
Authors: Go Tohshin
Published: September 2013

Purpose. Adjunctive zonisamide therapy was demonstrated to be beneficial for multiple-disabled patients with refractory childhood-onset epilepsy. Zonisamide is well tolerated, but urolithiasis and calcium sludge in the bladder were sometimes described in patients treated with antiepileptic drug polytherapy including zonisamide. In previous studies, alkaline urine and crystalluria were shown to be risk factors for urolithiasis. Therefore, the effects of zonisamide addition and withdrawal on the urinary pH and crystalluria were investigated in patients treated with antiepileptic drug polytherapy to clarify the cause of urolithiasis induced by zonisamide. Methods. The urinary pH and the degree of crystalluria were retrospectively studied in epilepsy patients one month after the addition or withdrawal of zonisamide as part of their antiepileptic drug treatment regimen over the previous three years. Results. A total of 27 zonisamide-on patients and 16 zonisamide-off patients were enrolled in the study. The urinary pH did not change after the addition or withdrawal of zonisamide. However, the degree of crystalluria significantly increased after the addition () of zonisamide and decreased after its withdrawal (). Conclusions. Zonisamide induces crystalluria without alkalinization of the urine. Crystalluria should be carefully monitored in patients treated with zonisamide to prevent urolithiasis.
Characterization of Metal Oxide-Based Gas Nanosensors and Microsensors Fabricated via Local Anodic Oxidation Using Atomic Force Microscopy
Authors: Archanjo Bráulio S. , Siles Pablo F. , Oliveira Camilla K. B. Q. M. , Baptista Daniel L. , Neves Bernardo R. A.
Published: September 2013

This work reports on nanoscale and microscale metal oxide gas sensors, consisting of metal-semiconductor-metal barriers designed via scanning probe microscopy. Two distinct metal oxides, molybdenum and titanium oxides, were tested at different temperatures using CO2and H2as test gases. Sensitivities down to ppm levels are demonstrated, and the influence of dry and humid working atmospheres on these metal oxide conductivities was studied. Furthermore, the activation energy was evaluated and analyzed within working sensor temperature range. Finally, full morphological, chemical, and structural analyses of the oxides composites are provided allowing their identification as MoO3and Ti.
Numerical Solution of MHD Viscoelastic Nanofluid Flow over a Stretching Sheet with Partial Slip and Heat Source/Sink
Authors: Goyal Mania , Bhargava Rama
Published: September 2013

We analyze the effect of velocity slip boundary condition on the flow and heat transfer of non-Newtonian nanofluid over a stretching sheet with a heat source/sink, under the action of a uniform magnetic field, orientated normally to the plate. The Brownian motion and thermophoresis effects are also considered. The boundary layer equations governed by the partial differential equations are transformed into a set of ordinary differential equations with the help of local similarity transformations. The differential equations are solved by the variational finite element method (FEM). We have examined the effects of different controlling parameters, namely, the Brownian motion parameter, the thermophoresis parameter, uniform magnetic field, viscoelastic parameter, Prandtl number, heat source/sink parameter, Lewis number, and the slip parameter on the flow field and heat transfer characteristics. Graphical display of the numerical examination is performed to illustrate the influence of various flow parameters on the velocity, temperature, concentration, and Nusselt and Sherwood numbers distributions. The present study has many applications in coating and suspensions, cooling of metallic plate, paper production, heat exchangers technology, and materials processing exploiting.
Development and Validation of a Simple and Sensitive Spectrometric Method for Estimation of Cisplatin Hydrochloride in Tablet Dosage Forms: Application to Dissolution Studies
Authors: Basotra Mohit , Singh Sachin Kumar , Gulati Monica
Published: September 2013

Cisplatin hydrochloride is an important chemotherapeutic drug for cancer treatment. It has a low molar absorptivity in the UV region and has no fluorescence. Therefore, a selective derivatizing reaction is required for its detection in bulk and pharmaceutical dosage form if detection by UV spectrophotometry is sought. In view of this, a simple, accurate, rapid, and cost-effective spectrophotometric method for its estimation has been developed by the complexation of the drug with ortho-phenylene diamine and monitoring the absorbance of formed green color at 706 nm. The method has been validated and successfully applied for the assay and dissolution studies of cisplatin hydrochloride tablets. The method demonstrated good linearity over the range from 0.4 to 1.4 μg/mL with a correlation coefficient of 0.9999. The accuracy of the method was 99.98%. The precision demonstrated relative standard deviation of less than 2.5%. The developed method was successfully applied for dissolution studies of sustained release tablets of cisplatin with a cumulative release of 86.7% in 12 hours. The proposed method can be applied in routine quality control in the pharmaceutical industries since it is precise, accurate, simple, and economic.
Ultrasound and Microwave Coassisted Synthesis and Luminescent Properties of (Ca1−x, Lnx)MoO4:Eu3+ (Ln = La, Gd; 0 < x < 0.5) Phosphors
Authors: Hu Jing , Wang Qianming
Published: September 2013

In order to control reaction temperature and reduce processing time, a new method of ultrasound irradiation with microwave heating was used to synthesize (Ca1−x, Lnx)MoO4:Eu3+
(Ln = La, Gd; 0 < x < 0.5) phosphors at only 80°C in 30 minutes. Their crystal structures and morphologies which have been verified by X‐ray diffraction (XRD) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) exhibited gradual changes due to the insertion of lanthanide ions (La or Gd) in calcium molybdates. Codoping of lanthanum ions (x = 0.2) would enhance the emission intensities that were supported by fluorescent spectrophotometry (FL).
Neurosubstrates of Remission following Prolonged Exposure Therapy in Veterans with Posttraumatic Stress Disorder
Authors: Simmons Alan N. , Norman Sonya B. , Spadoni Andrea D. , Strigo Irina A.
Published: September 2013

Background: Prolonged exposure (PE) therapy is the first-line treatment for posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) in combat veterans. The underlying brain changes of treatment effect in PTSD are currently unknown. Methods: A total of 31 veterans with PTSD completed an fMRI scan performing an affective anticipation task at baseline and were enrolled in PE therapy. Of these, 7 prematurely terminated therapy, while 24 individuals completed PE therapy and an identical follow-up fMRI scan. At follow-up, 15 of the 24 completers still had diagnosable PTSD (NR-PTSD) and 9 of the 24 completers showed complete remission from PTSD (R-PTSD), i.e. they did not meet diagnostic criteria for PTSD. Results: The left anterior insula showed a significant group by scan session interaction. Specifically, the R-PTSD group showed decreased activation during anticipation of negative images from pre- to posttreatment scans, while the NR-PTSD group showed increased activation during anticipation of positive images in this region. Furthermore, the change in functional activation in the insula co-occurred with increased connectivity between this insular region and the right cingulate and right mid-posterior insular region in R-PTSD. Conclusions: These findings suggest that the capacity to effectively remit from PTSD symptoms after PE treatment requires the ability to connect with physiological signals and moderate the discomfort of anticipatory anxiety of exposure therapy. These processes appear to be controlled by a network where the anterior insula is connected with the cingulate and the mid-posterior insula.
Inpatient Cognitive Behaviour Therapy for Anorexia Nervosa: A Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Dalle Grave Riccardo , Calugi Simona , Conti Maddalena , Doll Helen , Fairburn Christopher G.
Published: September 2013

Background: The aim of this study was to compare the immediate and longer-term effects of two cognitive behaviour therapy programmes for hospitalized patients with anorexia nervosa, one focused exclusively on the patients' eating disorder features and the other focused also on mood intolerance, clinical perfectionism, core low self-esteem or interpersonal difficulties. Both programmes were derived from enhanced cognitive behaviour therapy (CBT-E) for eating disorders. Methods: Eighty consecutive patients with severe anorexia nervosa were randomized to the two inpatient CBT-E programmes, both of which involved 20 weeks of treatment (13 weeks as an inpatient and 7 as a day patient). The patients were then followed up over 12 months. The assessments were made blind to treatment condition. Results: Eighty-one percent of the eligible patients accepted inpatient CBT-E, of whom 90% completed the 20 weeks of treatment. The patients in both programmes showed significant improvements in weight, eating disorder and general psychopathology. Deterioration after discharge did occur but it was not marked and it was restricted to the first 6 months. There were no statistically significant differences between the effects of the two programmes. Conclusions: These findings suggest that both versions of inpatient CBT-E are well accepted by these severely ill patients and might be a viable and promising treatment for severe anorexia nervosa. There appears to be no benefit from using the more complex form of the treatment.
Molecular Pathways and Functional Analysis of miRNA Expression Associated with Paclitaxel-Induced Apoptosis in Hepatocellular Carcinoma Cells
Authors: Yan H. , Wang S. , Yu H. , Zhu J. , Chen C.
Published: September 2013

Background: We postulated that microRNAs (miRNAs) might be involved in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) targeted chemotherapy with paclitaxel. This study sought to generate a list of potential miRNA-based biomarkers and their potential targets to better understand the response to paclitaxel treatment in HCC. Methods: Cell viability proliferation assays were conducted to test the sensitivity of the HepG2 cells to paclitaxel. The morphological changes of apoptosis were assessed with 4′,6-diamidino-2-phenylindole staining. Differential expression patterns of miRNA in the HepG2 cells either treated or not treated were analyzed using miRNA microarrays. Results: The array experiments have identified 54 miRNAs whose basal expression levels differed by >2-fold and p < 0.05 between the two phenotypic groups. The data were validated by a quantitative real-time PCR of 8 selected miRNAs (miR-21, miR-1274a, miR-1260, miR-1290, miR-508-5p, miR-877, miR-1246, miR-183*). The PI3K/Akt, mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK), TGF-β, ErbB, p53, cell cycle, mammalian target of rapamycin, and Jak-STAT signaling pathways were involved in paclitaxel-induced apoptosis. Conclusions: The manipulation of one or more of these miRNAs could be an important approach for the improved management of paclitaxel therapy.
High Diversity in CMA3/DAPI-Banding Patterns in Heteropterans
Authors: Bardella V.B. , Grazia J. , Fernandes J.A.M. , Vanzela A.L.L.
Published: September 2013

Heteroptera is the most numerous and diverse suborder of Hemiptera, with about 38,000 species. This diversity also involves cytogenetic features, including chromosome number and a sex determining system. Information about heterochromatin occurrence and distribution is scarce in heteropterans, but still, there is some evidence of variability. We determined the chromosome number and CMA3/DAPI-banding pattern of 179 individuals of 25 heteropteran species from Brazil. Eight species of Pentatomidae exhibited a constant chromosome number (2n = 12 + XY), but in Coreidae (12 species), Largidae (1 species), Rhopalidae (1 species), and Pyrrhocoridae (3 species), the numbers ranged from 2n = 10 + 2m + X0 to 2n = 24 + 2m + X0. Although there were no large differences in the chromosome size between species, the CMA3/DAPI-banding patterns differed markedly. Among the genera, species of Edessa, Spartocera, Hypselonotus, Phtia,Holhymenia and Euryophthalmus showed a large accumulation of heterochromatin, while the other species exhibited few or no heterochromatic bands. In general, when heterochromatin was more accumulated, this occurred preferentially at terminal positions, except in Holhymenia histrio, which exhibited intercalary bands. This study made it possible to identify some chromosome rearrangements and to enhance our knowledge of the evolutionary mechanisms that determine karyotype differentiation in Heteroptera.
Role for Platelet Glycoprotein Ib-IX and Effects of its Inhibition in Endotoxemia-Induced Thrombosis, Thrombocytopenia, and Mortality
Authors: Yin Hong , Stojanovic-Terpo Aleksandra , Xu Weidong , Corken Adam , Zakharov Alexander , Qian Feng , Pavlovic Sasha , Krbanjevic Aleksandar , Lyubimov Alexander V. , Wang Zaijie J. , Ware Jerry , Du Xiaoping
Published: September 2013

Objective—

Poor prognosis of sepsis is associated with bacterial lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced intravascular inflammation, microvascular thrombosis, thrombocytopenia, and disseminated intravascular coagulation. Platelets are critical for thrombosis, and there has been increasing evidence of the importance of platelets in endotoxemia. The platelet adhesion receptor, the glycoprotein Ib-IX complex (GPIb-IX), mediates platelet adhesion to inflammatory vascular endothelium and exposed subendothelium. Thus, we have investigated the role of GPIb-IX in LPS-induced platelet adhesion, thrombosis, and thrombocytopenia.

Approach and Results—

LPS-induced mortality is significantly decreased in mice expressing a functionally deficient mutant of GPIbα. Furthermore, we have developed a micellar peptide inhibitor, MPαC (C13H27CONH-SIRYSGHpSL), which selectively inhibits the von Willebrand factor -binding function of GPIb-IX and GPIb-IX–mediated platelet adhesion under flow without affecting GPIb-IX–independent platelet activation. MPαC inhibits platelet adhesion to LPS-stimulated endothelial cells in vitro and alleviates LPS-induced thrombosis in glomeruli in mice. Importantly, MPαC reduces mortality in LPS-challenged mice, suggesting a protective effect of this inhibitor during endotoxemia. Interestingly, MPαC, but not the integrin antagonist, Integrilin, alleviated LPS-induced thrombocytopenia.

Conclusions—

These data indicate an important role for the platelet adhesion receptor GPIb-IX in LPS-induced thrombosis and thrombocytopenia, and suggest the potential of targeting GPIb as an antiplatelet strategy in managing endotoxemia.