bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Activation of individual extrinsic thumb muscles and compartments of extrinsic finger muscles
Authors: Birdwell J. Alexander , Hargrove Levi J. , Kuiken Todd A. , Weir Richard F. ff.
Published: June 2013

Mechanical and neurological couplings exist between musculotendon units of the human hand and digits. Studies have begun to understand how these muscles interact when accomplishing everyday tasks, but there are still unanswered questions regarding the control limitations of individual muscles. Using intramuscular electromyographic (EMG) electrodes, this study examined subjects' ability to individually initiate and sustain three levels of normalized muscular activity in the index and middle finger muscle compartments of extensor digitorum communis (EDC), flexor digitorum profundus (FDP), and flexor digitorum superficialis (FDS), as well as the extrinsic thumb muscles abductor pollicis longus (APL), extensor pollicis brevis (EPB), extensor pollicis longus (EPL), and flexor pollicis longus (FPL). The index and middle finger compartments each sustained activations with significantly different levels of coactivity from the other finger muscle compartments. The middle finger compartment of EDC was the exception. Only two extrinsic thumb muscles, EPL and FPL, were capable of sustaining individual activations from the other thumb muscles, at all tested activity levels. Activation of APL was achieved at 20 and 30% MVC activity levels with significantly different levels of coactivity. Activation of EPB elicited coactivity levels from EPL and APL that were not significantly different. These results suggest that most finger muscle compartments receive unique motor commands, but of the four thumb muscles, only EPL and FPL were capable of individually activating. This work is encouraging for the neural control of prosthetic limbs because these muscles and compartments may potentially serve as additional user inputs to command prostheses.
Laryngeal Manifestations of Rheumatoid Arthritis
Authors: Hamdan A. L. , Sarieddine D.
Published: June 2013

Rheumatoid arthritis is a destructive autoimmune disease that affects 3% of the adult population. It is characterized by the formation of both articular and extra-articular lesions with predilection for small joints. There are ubiquitous reports on the head and neck manifestations of RA with emphasis on the larynx. The laryngeal presenting features of this systemic disease may mimic a plethora of medical conditions, inflammatory and neoplastic. The main phonatory and respiratory symptoms are often subtle and misleading. This paper represents a literature review of the laryngeal manifestations of RA with emphasis on the clinical symptoms, laryngeal findings, diagnosis, and treatment. An early diagnosis of laryngeal involvement may prevent drastic complications.
Trends and Variability of North Pacific Polar Lows
Authors: Chen Fei , von Storch Hans
Published: June 2013

The 6-hourly 1948–2010 NCEP 1 reanalyses have been dynamically downscaled for the region of the North Pacific. With a detecting-and-tracking algorithm, the climatology of North Pacific Polar Lows has been constructed. This derived climatology is consistent with the limited observational evidence in terms of frequency and spatial distribution. The climatology exhibits strong year-to-year variability but weak decadal variability and a small positive trend. A canonical correlation analysis describes the conditioning of the formation of Polar Lows by characteristic seasonal mean flow regimes, which favor, or limit, cold air outbreaks and upper air troughs.
Physical Fitness in Children with Type 1 Diabetes Measured with Six-Minute Walk Test
Authors: Jegdic Vladimir , Roncevic Zeljko , Skrabic Veselin
Published: June 2013

Aim/Hypothesis. To examine whether children with DMT1 are less physically fit than healthy children and to assess whether an elevated level of HbA1c was associated with decreased physical fitness among children with diabetes.Methods. The study was conducted using case-control methodology. The cases were 100 children with T1DM, 7–17,9 years. Study subjects underwent a 6MWT, where distance measured, heart rate, and oxygen saturation was recorded.Results. Results of the 6MWT for children with T1DM and controls were 601.3 ± 86.1 meters versus 672.1 ± 60.6 meters, respectively (P<0.001). The cases were divided into two subgroups, one with HbA1c levels >8% and one with HbA1c <8%. Results for both groups were inferior to the controls (P<0.001). The posttest pulse rate in all subjects was higher than the pretest pulse rate (P<0.001). Pulse oxygen levels were lower than controls at the pretest measurement (P<0.001), and for both cases and controls, pulse oxygen levels decreased after test (P=0.004). However, the change in oxygen saturation did not differ between the groups (P=0.332).Conclusions. Children with T1D are less fit than matched controls. The level of HbA1c did not affect the physical fitness of children with T1D.
Role of Dopaminergic Receptors in Glaucomatous Disease Modulation
Authors: Pescosolido Nicola , Parisi Francesco , Russo Paola , Buomprisco Giuseppe , Nebbioso Marcella
Published: June 2013

Both studies on animals and humans suggest the presence of dopamine (DA) receptors in the anterior segment of the eye. Their role in the dynamics of intraocular pressure (IOP) is not yet clear. DA2and DA3receptors are mainly located on postganglionic sympathetic nerve endings. Their stimulation reduces the release of norepinephrine and suppresses the production of aqueous humor. DA1receptors seem to be more expressed by the ciliary body and the outflow pathway of aqueous humor. The administration of DA1-selective agonists stimulates the production of aqueous humor, increasing IOP, whereas DA2- and DA3-selective agonists could reduce IOP and, therefore, the risk to develop a glaucoma (GL). GL is a broad spectrum of eye diseases which have in common the damage to the optic nerve and the progressive loss of the visual field. Further studies are desirable to clarify the role of the dopaminergic system and the usefulness of DA2and DA3agonists in reducing IOP.
Thermoelectric Energy Harvesting for Building Energy Management Wireless Sensor Networks
Authors: Wang Wensi , Cionca Victor , Wang Ningning , Hayes Mike , O'Flynn Brendan , O'Mathuna Cian
Published: June 2013

A thermoelectric energy harvester powered wireless sensor networks (WSNs) module designed for building energy management (BEM) applications is built and tested in this work. An analytic thermoelectric generator (TEG) electrical model is built and verified based on parameters given in manufacturer data sheets of Bismuth Telluride TEGs. A charge pump/switching regulator two-stage ultra-low voltage step-up DC/DC converter design is presented in this work to boost the <0.5 V output voltage of TEG to usable voltage level for WSN (3.3 V). The design concept, device simulation, circuits schematic, and the measurement results are presented in detail. The prototype device test results show 25% end-to-end conversion efficiency in a wide range of input temperatures/voltages. Further tests demonstrate that the proposed thermoelectric generator design can effectively power WSN module which operates with a 1.7% duty cycle (5.8 seconds measurement time interval) when the prototype is placed on a typical wall-mount heater (60°C surface temperature). The thermoelectric energy harvesting powered WSN demonstrates duty cycles significantly higher than the required duty cycle for BEM WSN applications.
A Study of Single- and Double-Averaged Second-Order Models to Evaluate Third-Body Perturbation Considering Elliptic Orbits for the Perturbing Body
Authors: Domingos R. C. , Prado A. F. Bertachini de Almeida , de Moraes R. Vilhena
Published: June 2013

The equations for the variations of the Keplerian elements of the orbit of a spacecraft perturbed by a third body are developed using a single average over the motion of the spacecraft, considering an elliptic orbit for the disturbing body. A comparison is made between this approach and the more used double averaged technique, as well as with the full elliptic restricted three-body problem. The disturbing function is expanded in Legendre polynomials up to the second order in both cases. The equations of motion are obtained from the planetary equations, and several numerical simulations are made to show the evolution of the orbit of the spacecraft. Some characteristics known from the circular perturbing body are studied: circular, elliptic equatorial, and frozen orbits. Different initial eccentricities for the perturbed body are considered, since the effect of this variable is one of the goals of the present study. The results show the impact of this parameter as well as the differences between both models compared to the full elliptic restricted three-body problem. Regions below, near, and above the critical angle of the third-body perturbation are considered, as well as different altitudes for the orbit of the spacecraft.
ACO-Based Routing Algorithm for Cognitive Radio Networks
Authors: Huang Peng , Lin Feng , Zhou Jiliu
Published: June 2013

Cognitive Radio Networks (CRNs) are an outstanding solution to improve efficiency of spectrum usage. Secondary users in cognitive networks may select from a set of available channels to use provided that the occupancy does not affect the prioritized licensed users. However, CRNs produce unique routing challenges due to the high fluctuation in the available spectrum as well as diverse quality-of-service (QoS) requirements. In CRNs, distributed multihop architecture and time varying spectrum availability are some of the key factors in design of routing algorithms. In this paper, we develop an ant-colony-optimization- (ACO-) based on-demand cognitive routing algorithm (ACO-OCR), jointly consider path and spectrum scheduling, and take advantage of the availability of multiple channels, to improve the delivery latency and packet loss rate. Then, an analytical framework based on M/G/1 queuing theory is introduced to illustrate the relay node queuing model. The performances of ACO-OCR have been evaluated by means of numerical simulations, and the experimental results confirm its effectiveness. Simulation results show that ACO-OCR outperforms other routing approaches in end-to-end path latency and package loss rate.
The Leech Nervous System: A Valuable Model to Study the Microglia Involvement in Regenerative Processes
Authors: Le Marrec-Croq Françoise , Drago Francesco , Vizioli Jacopo , Sautière Pierre-Eric , Lefebvre Christophe
Published: June 2013

Microglia are intrinsic components of the central nervous system (CNS). During pathologies in mammals, inflammatory processes implicate the resident microglia and the infiltration of blood cells including macrophages. Functions of microglia appear to be complex as they exhibit both neuroprotective and neurotoxic effects during neuropathological conditionsin vivoandin vitro. The medicinal leechHirudo medicinalisis a well-known model in neurobiology due to its ability to naturally repair its CNS following injury. Considering the low infiltration of blood cells in this process, the leech CNS is studied to specify the activation mechanisms of only resident microglial cells. The microglia recruitment is known to be essential for the usual sprouting of injured axons and does not require any other glial cells. The present review will describe the questions which are addressed to understand the nerve repair. They will discuss the implication of leech factors in the microglial accumulation, the identification of nerve cells producing these molecules, and the study of different microglial subsets. Those questions aim to better understand the mechanisms of microglial cell recruitment and their crosstalk with damaged neurons. The study of this dialog is necessary to elucidate the balance of the inflammation leading to the leech CNS repair.
Trends in the Treatment of Hypertension from the Perspective of Traditional Chinese Medicine
Authors: Xiong Xingjiang , Yang Xiaochen , Liu Wei , Chu Fuyong , Wang Pengqian , Wang Jie
Published: June 2013

Hypertension is a major public-health issue. Much consensus has been reached in the treatment, and considerable progress has been made in the field of antihypertensive drugs. However, the standard-reaching rate of blood pressure is far from satisfaction. Considering these data and the seriousness of the effects of hypertension on the individual and society as a whole, both economically and socially, physicians must look for more effective and alternative ways to achieve the target blood pressure. Could treatment of hypertension be improved by insights from traditional Chinese medicine? As one of the most important parts in complementary and alternative therapies, TCM is regularly advocated for lowering elevated blood pressure. Due to the different understanding of the pathogenesis of hypertension between ancient and modern times, new understanding and treatment of hypertension need to be reexplored. Aiming to improve the efficacy of Chinese herbal medicine in treating hypertension, the basis of treatment is explored through systematically analyzing the literature available in both English and Chinese search engines. This paper systematically reviews the trends in emerging therapeutic strategies for hypertension from the perspective of traditional Chinese medicine.
Novel Imaging Enhancements in Capsule Endoscopy
Authors: Ibrahim Mostafa , Van Gossum Andre
Published: June 2013

Video capsule endoscopy that was launched 10 years ago has become a first-line procedure for examining the small bowel. The most common indications for capsule endoscopy are obscure gastrointestinal bleeding, Crohn's disease, polyposis syndromes, and evaluation of patients with complicated celiac disease. The ideal capsule should improve the quality of the image and have a faster frame rate than the currently available one. There should be a therapeutic capsule capable of performing a biopsy, aspirating fluid, delivering drugs, and measuring the motility of the small bowel wall. Another major leap forward would be the capability of remote control of capsule's movement in order to navigate it to reach designated anatomical areas for carrying out a variety of therapeutic options. Technology for improving the capability of the future generation capsules almost within grasp and it would not be surprising to witness the realization of these giant steps within the coming decade. In this review we will focus on the current clinical applications of capsule endoscopy for imaging of the small bowel and colon and will additionally give an outlook on future concepts and developments of capsule endoscopy.
Which Approach Is More Effective in the Selection of Plants with Antimicrobial Activity?
Authors: Silva Ana Carolina Oliveira , Santana Elidiane Fonseca , Saraiva Antonio Marcos , Coutinho Felipe Neves , Castro Ricardo Henrique Acre , Pisciottano Maria Nelly Caetano , Amorim Elba Lúcia Cavalcanti , Albuquerque Ulysses Paulino
Published: June 2013

The development of the present study was based on selections using random, direct ethnopharmacological, and indirect ethnopharmacological approaches, aiming to evaluate which method is the best for bioprospecting new antimicrobial plant drugs. A crude extract of 53 species of herbaceous plants collected in the semiarid region of Northeast Brazil was tested against 11 microorganisms. Well-agar diffusion and minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) techniques were used. Ten extracts from direct, six from random, and three from indirect ethnopharmacological selections exhibited activities that ranged from weak to very active against the organisms tested. The strain most susceptible to the evaluated extracts wasStaphylococcus aureus. The MIC analysis revealed the best result for the direct ethnopharmacological approach, considering that some species yielded extracts classified as active or moderately active (MICs between 250 and 1000 µg/mL). Furthermore, one species from this approach inhibited the growth of the threeCandidastrains. Thus, it was concluded that the direct ethnopharmacological approach is the most effective when selecting species for bioprospecting new plant drugs with antimicrobial activities.
Single-Input Four-Output Current Mode Filter Using Operational Floating Current Conveyor
Authors: Pandey Neeta , Nand Deva , Khan Zubair
Published: June 2013

This paper presents operational floating current conveyor (OFCC) based single input four output current mode filter. It employs only three OFCCs and two grounded capacitors and resistors each. The MOS based grounded resistors implementation is used, which adds feature of electronic tunability to the filter parameters. The filter also enjoys low component spread and low sensitivity performance. The effect of finite transimpedance and parasites of OFCC on the proposed circuit is also analyzed. The functionality of the proposed circuit is demonstrated through SPICE simulations using 0.5 µm CMOS process model provided by MOSIS (AGILENT).
Secure Ant-Based Routing Protocol for Wireless Sensor Network
Authors: Alrajeh Nabil Ali , Alabed Mohamad Souheil , Elwahiby Mohamed Shaaban
Published: June 2013

Optimal path selection in wireless sensor networks (WSNs) is one of the challenging tasks. Several efficient routing protocols are proposed for specific scenarios to achieve particular objectives in WSN. However, such networks have many limitations such as low data rates and security threats. In this paper, we propose an adaptive secure routing protocol which is based on bioinspired mechanism. It uses distributed ant-based methodology to select two optimal paths keeping in view route security. Simulation results show that our routing protocol can perform better in many scenarios.
Amyloid Beta Peptides Differentially Affect Hippocampal Theta RhythmsIn Vitro
Authors: Gutiérrez-Lerma Armando I. , Ordaz Benito , Peña-Ortega Fernando
Published: June 2013

Soluble amyloid beta peptide (Aβ) is responsible for the early cognitive dysfunction observed in Alzheimer's disease. Both cholinergically and glutamatergically induced hippocampal theta rhythms are related to learning and memory, spatial navigation, and spatial memory. However, these two types of theta rhythms are not identical; they are associated with different behaviors and can be differentially modulated by diverse experimental conditions. Therefore, in this study, we aimed to investigate whether or not application of soluble Aβalters the two types of theta frequency oscillatory network activity generated in rat hippocampal slices by application of the cholinergic and glutamatergic agonists carbachol or DHPG, respectively. Due to previous evidence that oscillatory activity can be differentially affected by different Aβpeptides, we also comparedAβ25−35andAβ1−42for their effects on theta rhythmsin vitroat similar concentrations (0.5 to 1.0 μM). We found thatAβ25−35reduces, with less potency thanAβ1−42, carbachol-induced population theta oscillatory activity. In contrast, DHPG-induced oscillatory activity was not affected by a high concentration ofAβ25−35but was reduced byAβ1−42. Our results support the idea that different amyloid peptides might alter specific cellular mechanisms related to the generation of specific neuronal network activities, instead of exerting a generalized inhibitory effect on neuronal network function.
Fast Linear Adaptive Skipping Training Algorithm for Training Artificial Neural Network
Authors: Manjula Devi R. , Kuppuswami S. , Suganthe R. C.
Published: June 2013

Artificial neural network has been extensively consumed training model for solving pattern recognition tasks. However, training a very huge training data set using complex neural network necessitates excessively high training time. In this correspondence, a new fast Linear Adaptive Skipping Training (LAST) algorithm for training artificial neural network (ANN) is instituted. The core essence of this paper is to ameliorate the training speed of ANN by exhibiting only the input samples that do not categorize perfectly in the previous epoch which dynamically reducing the number of input samples exhibited to the network at every single epoch without affecting the network’s accuracy. Thus decreasing the size of the training set can reduce the training time, thereby ameliorating the training speed. This LAST algorithm also determines how many epochs the particular input sample has to skip depending upon the successful classification of that input sample. This LAST algorithm can be incorporated into any supervised training algorithms. Experimental result shows that the training speed attained by LAST algorithm is preferably higher than that of other conventional training algorithms.
Estimation of Recurrence Interval of Large Earthquakes on the Central Longmen Shan Fault Zone Based on Seismic Moment Accumulation/Release Model
Authors: Ren Junjie , Zhang Shimin
Published: June 2013

Recurrence interval of large earthquake on an active fault zone is an important parameter in assessing seismic hazard. The 2008 Wenchuan earthquake (Mw 7.9) occurred on the central Longmen Shan fault zone and ruptured the Yingxiu‐Beichuan fault (YBF) and the Guanxian‐Jiangyou fault (GJF). However, there is a considerable discrepancy among recurrence intervals of large earthquake in preseismic and postseismic estimates based on slip rate and paleoseismologic results. Post‐seismic trenches showed that the central Longmen Shan fault zone probably undertakes an event similar to the 2008 quake, suggesting a characteristic earthquake model. In this paper, we use the published seismogenic model of the 2008 earthquake based on Global Positioning System (GPS) and Interferometric Synthetic Aperture Radar (InSAR) data and construct a characteristic seismic moment accumulation/release model to estimate recurrence interval of large earthquakes on the central Longmen Shan fault zone. Our results show that the seismogenic zone accommodates a moment rate of (2.7 ± 0.3) × 1017 N m/yr, and a recurrence interval of 3900 ± 400 yrs is necessary for accumulation of strain energy equivalent to the 2008 earthquake. This study provides a preferred interval estimation of large earthquakes for seismic hazard analysis in the Longmen Shan region.
Sample Training Based Wildfire Segmentation by 2D Histogram θ‐Division with Minimum Error
Authors: Zhao Jianhui , Dong Erqian , Sun Mingui , Jia Wenyan , Zhang Dengyi , Yuan Zhiyong
Published: June 2013

A novel wildfire segmentation algorithm is proposed with the help of sample training based 2D histogram θ‐division and minimum error. Based on minimum error principle and 2D color histogram, the θ‐division methods were presented recently, but application of prior knowledge on them has not been explored. For the specific problem of wildfire segmentation, we collect sample images with manually labeled fire pixels. Then we define the probability function of error division to evaluate θ‐division segmentations, and the optimal angle θ is determined by sample training. Performances in different color channels are compared, and the suitable channel is selected. To further improve the accuracy, the combination approach is presented with both θ‐division and other segmentation methods such as GMM. Our approach is tested on real images, and the experiments prove its efficiency for wildfire segmentation.
Synthesis of Poly(cyclohexene oxide)‐Montmorillonite Nanocomposite via In Situ Photoinitiated Cationic Polymerization with Bifunctional Clay
Authors: Bayram Işıl , Oral Ayhan , Şirin Kamil
Published: June 2013

Poly(cyclohexene oxide) (PCHO)/clay nanocomposites were prepared by means of in situ photoinitiated cationic polymerization with initiator moieties immobilized within the silicate galleries of the clay particles. Diphenyliodonium molecules were intercalated via cation exchange process between Cloisite Ca and diphenyliodonium. The polymerization of CHO through the interlayer galleries of the clay can provide a homogenous distribution of the clay layers in the polymer matrix in nanosize and results in the formation of PCHO/clay nanocomposites. The rates of clay loadings were changed to 1%, 3%, and 5% so as to investigate the effect of clay and initiator amount on polymer. X‐ray diffraction (XRD) spectroscopy, thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), and transmission electron microscopy (TEM) methods were used for the characterization of modified clay and nanocomposite materials. Thermal stability of PCHO/MMT nanocomposites was also studied by both differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) and thermogravimetric analysis (TGA).
Transverse Carpal Ligament and Forearm Fascia Release for the Treatment of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome Change the Entrance Angle of Flexor Tendons to the A1 Pulley: The Relationship between Carpal Tunnel Surgery and Trigger Finger Occurence
Authors: Karalezli Nazım , Kütahya Harun , Güleç Ali , Toker Serdar , Karabörk Hakan , Ogun Tunc C.
Published: June 2013

Purpose. The appearance of trigger finger after decompression of the carpal tunnel without a preexisting symptom has been reported in a few articles. Although, the cause is not clear yet, the loss of pulley action of the transverse carpal ligament has been accused mostly. In this study, we planned a biomechanical approach to fresh cadavers. Methods. The study was performed on 10 fresh amputees of the arm. The angles were measured with (1) the transverse carpal ligament and the distal forearm fascia intact, (2) only the transverse carpal ligament incised, (3) the distal forearm fascia incised to the point 3 cm proximal from the most proximal part of the transverse carpal ligament in addition to the transverse carpal ligament. The changes between the angles produced at all three conditions were compared to each other. Results. We saw that the entrance angle increased in all of five fingers in an increasing manner from procedure 1 to 3, and it was seen that the maximal increase is detected in the middle finger from procedure 1 to procedure 2 and the minimal increase is detected in little finger. Discussion. Our results support that transverse carpal ligament and forearm fascia release may be a predisposing factor for the development of trigger finger by the effect of changing the enterance angle to the A1 pulley and consequently increase the friction in this anatomic area. Clinical Relevance. This study is a cadaveric study which is directly investigating the effect of a transverse carpal ligament release on the enterance angle of flexor tendons to A1 pulleys in the hand.
Ovarian Hyperstimulation Syndrome as an Etiology of Obstructive Uropathy
Authors: Marak Creticus P. , Chopra Amit , Alappan Narendrakumar , Ponea Ana M. , Guddati Achuta K.
Published: June 2013

Ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS) is an iatrogenic complication of controlled ovarian hyperstimulation (COH) protocols performed in women undergoing assisted reproductive technologies. Overstimulation of the ovaries results in the overproduction of vasoactive cytokines and mediators by the ovaries, thereby causing a generalized capillary leak and acute shift of protein-rich fluid from the intravascular compartment into the third space. This may lead to the development of ascites, pleural effusions, pericardial effusion, anasarca, intravascular volume depletion, hemoconcentration, oliguria, hypoalbuminemia and hypoproteinemia, electrolyte imbalances, acute renal failure, abdominal compartment syndrome, thromboembolic events, and adult respiratory distress syndrome. The only effective treatment available is prevention of the syndrome from developing by individualizing the stimulation protocol, especially in high-risk patients. Once the syndrome develops, the management is mainly supportive. Oliguria and some degree of acute renal failure commonly develop in patients with moderate to severe OHSS and are usually due to prerenal causes. Acute renal failure (ARF) secondary to obstructive uropathy is rare. Here we report a case of severe, life-threatening OHSS resulting in ARF secondary to obstructive uropathy.
Antimicrobial Peptides: Versatile Biological Properties
Authors: Pushpanathan Muthuirulan , Gunasekaran Paramasamy , Rajendhran Jeyaprakash
Published: June 2013

Antimicrobial peptides are diverse group of biologically active molecules with multidimensional properties. In recent past, a wide variety of AMPs with diverse structures have been reported from different sources such as plants, animals, mammals, and microorganisms. The presence of unusual amino acids and structural motifs in AMPs confers unique structural properties to the peptide that attribute for their specific mode of action. The ability of these active AMPs to act as multifunctional effector molecules such as signalling molecule, immune modulators, mitogen, antitumor, and contraceptive agent makes it an interesting candidate to study every aspect of their structural and biological properties for prophylactic and therapeutic applications. In addition, easy cloning and recombinant expression of AMPs in heterologous plant host systems provided a pipeline for production of disease resistant transgenic plants. Besides these properties, AMPs were also used as drug delivery vectors to deliver cell impermeable drugs to cell interior. The present review focuses on the diversity and broad spectrum antimicrobial activity of AMPs along with its multidimensional properties that could be exploited for the application of these bioactive peptides as a potential and promising drug candidate in pharmaceutical industries.
Pharmacological Therapy of Gastroesophageal Reflux in Preterm Infants
Authors: Corvaglia Luigi , Monari Caterina , Martini Silvia , Aceti Arianna , Faldella Giacomo
Published: June 2013

Although gastroesophageal reflux (GER) is a very common phenomenon among preterm infants, its therapeutic management is still an issue of debate among neonatologists. A step-wise approach should be advisable, firstly promoting nonpharmacological interventions and limiting drugs to selected infants unresponsive to the conservative measures or who are suffering from severe GER with clinical complications. Despite of this, a concerning pharmacological overtreatment has been increasingly reported. Most of the antireflux drugs, however, have not been specifically assessed in preterm infants; moreover, serious adverse effects have been noticed in association to their administration. This review mainly aims to draw the state of the art regarding the pharmacological management of GER in preterm infants, analyzing the best piecies of evidence currently available on the most prescribed anti-reflux drugs. Although further trials are required, sodium alginate-based formulations might be considered promising; however, data regarding their safety are still limited. Few piecies of evidence on the efficacy of histamine-2 receptor blockers and proton pump inhibitors in preterm infants with GER are currently available. Nevertheless, a significantly increased risk of necrotizing enterocolitis and infections has been largely reported in association with their use, thereby leading to an unfavorable risk-benefit ratio. The efficacy of metoclopramide in GER’s improvement still needs to be clarified. Other prokinetic agents, such as domperidone and erythromycin, have been reported to be ineffective, whereas cisapride has been withdrawn due to its remarkable cardiac adverse effects.
Anti-Inflammatory, Anticholinesterase, and Antioxidant Potential of Scopoletin Isolated fromCanarium patentinerviumMiq. (Burseraceae Kunth)
Authors: Mogana R. , Teng-Jin K. , Wiart C.
Published: June 2013

Bioassay guided fractionation of an ethanol extract of leaves ofCanarium patentinerviumMiq. (Burseraceae Kunth.) led to the isolation of scopoletin. The structure of this coumarin was elucidated based on spectroscopic methods including nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR-1D and 2D) and mass spectrometry. Scopoletin inhibited the enzymatic activity of 5-lipoxygenase and acetyl cholinesterase with an IC50equal to1.76±0.01 μM and0.27±0.02 mM, respectively, and confronted oxidation in the ABTS, DPPH, FRAP, andβ-carotene bleaching assay with EC50values equal to5.62±0.03 μM,0.19±0.01 mM,0.25±0.03 mM and0.65±0.07 mM, respectively. Given the aforementioned evidence, it is tempting to speculate that scopoletin represents an exciting scaffold from which to develop leads for treatment of neurodegenerative diseases.
Cervical Ripening in The Netherlands: A Survey
Authors: Huisman Claartje M. A. , Jozwiak Marta , de Leeuw Jan Willem , Mol Ben Willem , Bloemenkamp Kitty W. M.
Published: June 2013

Objective. We aim to investigate methods and use of cervical ripening in women without and with a prior cesarean delivery in The Netherlands.Methods. In 2010, we conducted a postal survey in all Dutch hospitals with a labor ward. One gynecologist per hospital was addressed and was asked to respond on behalf of the staff. The questionnaire contained 31 questions concerning cervical ripening and induction of labor. We compared this survey to a similar Dutch survey conducted in 2006.Results. Response rate was 78% (70/92 hospitals). In women without a prior cesarean and in need of cervical ripening, all hospitals (100%) applied prostaglandins (either E1 or E2). In women with a prior cesarean, 21.4% of the hospitals performed an elective cesarean section if delivery was indicated (26.0% in 2006). In case of cervical ripening, 72.7% used mechanical methods (49.1% in 2006), 20.0% used prostaglandins (40.4% in 2006), 3.6% used a combination of prostaglandins and mechanical methods, and 3.6% used membrane-sweeping or oxytocin.Conclusions. In 2010, in The Netherlands, prostaglandins and Foley catheters were the preferred methods for cervical ripening in women without and with a prior cesarean, respectively. Use of mechanical methods in women with a prior cesarean has increased rapidly between 2006 and 2010, corresponding with decreasing use of prostaglandins and elective repeat cesarean sections.
Differential Influence of Components Resulting from Atmospheric-Pressure Plasma on Integrin Expression of Human HaCaT Keratinocytes
Authors: Haertel Beate , Straßenburg Susanne , Oehmigen Katrin , Wende Kristian , von Woedtke Thomas , Lindequist Ulrike
Published: June 2013

Adequate chronic wound healing is a major problem in medicine. A new solution might be non-thermal atmospheric-pressure plasma effectively inactivating microorganisms and influencing cells in wound healing. Plasma components as, for example, radicals can affect cells differently. HaCaT keratinocytes were treated with Dielectric Barrier Discharge plasma (DBD/air, DBD/argon), ozone or hydrogen peroxide to find the components responsible for changes in integrin expression, intracellular ROS formation or apoptosis induction. Dependent on plasma treatment time reduction of recovered cells was observed with no increase of apoptotic cells, but breakdown of mitochondrial membrane potential. DBD/air plasma increased integrins and intracellular ROS. DBD/argon caused minor changes. About 100 ppm ozone did not influence integrins. Hydrogen peroxide caused similar effects compared to DBD/air plasma. In conclusion, effects depended on working gas and exposure time to plasma. Short treatment cycles did neither change integrins nor induce apoptosis or ROS. Longer treatments changed integrins as important for influencing wound healing. Plasma effects on integrins are rather attributed to induction of other ROS than to generation of ozone. Changes of integrins by plasma may provide new solutions of improving wound healing, however, conditions are needed which allow initiating the relevant influence on integrins without being cytotoxic to cells.
Management of Bleeding in Extrahepatic Portal Venous Obstruction
Authors: Chaudhary N. , Mehrotra S. , Srivastava M. , Nundy S.
Published: June 2013

Extrahepatic portal venous obstruction, although rare in the western world, is a common cause of major and life threatening upper gastrointestinal bleeding among the poor in developing countries. Patients have large spleens and stunted growth. The diagnosis is easily confirmed by Doppler ultrasonography. Endoscopy sclerotherapy is the best option for the control of acute variceal bleeding. For secondary prophylaxis of bleeding, the choice lies between repeated sclerotherapy and a portosystemic shunt. We believe that due consideration should be given to performing a splenectomy and a lienorenal shunt. Performed by experienced surgeons, it carries a low operative mortality of 1%, a rebleeding rate of about 10%, removes the large spleen, reverses hypersplenism, and is not followed by portosystemic encephalopathy. Most importantly, it is a onetime procedure particularly suited to those who have little access to blood transfusion and sophisticated medical facilities.
Residual Effects of Biosolids Application on Forage Production of Semiarid Grassland in Jalisco, Mexico
Authors: Jurado-Guerra Pedro , Luna-Luna Miguel , Flores-Ancira Ernesto , Saucedo-Teran Ruben
Published: June 2013

Single application of biosolids increases forage production on semiarid grasslands. Residual effects of biosolids on forage production have been scarcely measured in semiarid grasslands. The objective was to evaluate the residual effects of biosolids application on forage production of blue grama (Bouteloua gracilis(Willd. ex Kunth) Lag. ex Griffiths) and other grasses at a semiarid grassland in Jalisco, Mexico. The study was performed at shortgrass prairie in northeast Jalisco. Field plots were selected to include blue grama plants before rainy season in 2002. Aerobic biosolids were applied at 0 (control), 15, 30, 45, 60, 75, or 90 dry Mg ha−1under a completely random design with five replications. Forage production was estimated by clipping at the end of the growing season during five years. Data analysis was performed with linear mixed model and repeated measures. Forage production was influenced by a rate × year × species interaction (P=0.0001). Blue grama forage production increased with increasing biosolids rates during all years, with the magnitude of this response varying among years. Forage production of other grass species slightly decreased with biosolids application. Single biosolids application had a residual effect on forage production throughout five years in semiarid grasslands.
Tuning of a TS Fuzzy Output Regulator Using the Steepest Descent Approach and ANFIS
Authors: Tapia-Herrera Ricardo , Meda-Campaña Jesús Alberto , Alcántara-Montes Samuel , Hernández-Cortés Tonatiuh , Salgado-Conrado Lizbeth
Published: June 2013

The exact output regulation problem for Takagi-Sugeno (TS) fuzzy models, designed from linear local subsystems, may have a solution if input matrices are the same for every local linear subsystem. Unfortunately, such a condition is difficult to accomplish in general. Therefore, in this work, an adaptive network-based fuzzy inference system (ANFIS) is integrated into the fuzzy controller in order to obtain the optimal fuzzy membership functions yielding adequate combination of the local regulators such that the output regulation error in steady-state is reduced, avoiding in this way the aforementioned condition. In comparison with the steepest descent method employed for tuning fuzzy controllers, ANFIS approximates the mappings between local regulators with membership functions which are not necessary known functions as Gaussian bell (gbell), sigmoidal, and triangular membership functions. Due to the structure of the fuzzy controller, Levenberg-Marquardt method is employed during the training of ANFIS.
High-Quality ZnCdS Nanosheets Prepared Using Solvothermal Synthesis
Authors: Mahdi M. A. , Hassan J. J. , Ng S. S. , Hassan Z.
Published: June 2013

For the first time, ZnxCd1-xS nanosheets with different Zn and Cd ion concentrations were prepared using solvothermal synthesis at 200°C for 4 and 24 h. The crystalline structure of the nanosheets was wurtzite. The optical band gaps of the nanosheets increased with increasing Zn ratio; this increase is consistent with the band gaps estimated using Vegard’s formula. The photoluminescence spectra for the 24 h nanosheets had higher emission intensities than those for the 4 h nanosheets. The emission band corresponding to intrinsic near-band-edge emission and a broad peak associated with extrinsic deep-level emission were observed in the photoluminescence spectra.
Fourier Transform Infrared Spectral Analysis of Polyisoprene of a Different Microstructure
Authors: Chen Dongmei , Shao Huafeng , Yao Wei , Huang Baochen
Published: June 2013

Some polyisoprene samples of different microstructure contents were studied by Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) and1H Nuclear magnetic resonance (1H NMR). On the basis of detailed analysis of FTIR spectra of polyisoprene, the shift of absorption peaks caused by microstructure content’s variation was discussed. The contents of the polyisoprene samples’ microstructure which was determined by the1H NMR was used as the standard. Through the choice, calculation, and comparison with the corresponding absorption peaks of FTIR, a method based on the results of the analysis has been developed for the determination of the microstructure contents of polyisoprene by FTIR.
Usefulness of Infrared Thermal Imaging Camera for Screening of Postoperative Surgical Site Infection after the Nuss Procedure
Authors: Fujita Kenya , Noguchi Masahiko , Yuzuriha Shunsuke , Yanagisawa Daisuke , Matsuo Kiyoshi
Published: June 2013

Introduction and Objective. The Nuss procedure is widely used in the treatment of pectus excavatum worldwide. Postoperative pectus bar infection is one of the most serious complications associated with this procedure. Therefore, early detection of signs of implant infection is very important. However, this is difficult, and effective methods have yet to be established.Methods. We use a handheld infrared thermal imaging camera to screen patients for postoperative infection following the Nuss procedure. Here, we report a 28-year-old man with recurrent postoperative (Ravitch procedure) pectus excavatum.Results. Infrared thermography camera clearly indicated slight cellulitis in the right chest.Conclusion. Our technique may assist in preventing postoperative bar infection and removal caused by severe bar infection. Furthermore, this camera is potentially suitable for many situations in infection monitoring following subcutaneous implant surgery.
Experimental Characterization of Ionic Polymer Metal Composite as a Novel Fractional Order Element
Authors: Caponetto Riccardo , Graziani Salvatore , Pappalardo Fulvio L. , Sapuppo Francesca
Published: June 2013

Ionic polymer metal composites (IPMCs) are electroactive materials made of ionic polymer thin membranes with platinum metallization on their surfaces. They are interesting materials due to not only their electromechanical applications as transducers but also to their electrochemical features and the relationship between the ionic/solvent current and the potential field. Their electrochemical properties thus suggest the possibility for exploiting them as compact fractional-order elements (FOEs) with a view of defining fabrication processes and production strategies that assure the desired performances. In this paper, the experimental electrical characterization of a brand new IPMC setup in a fixed sandwich configuration is proposed. Two IPMC devices with different platinum absorption times (5 h and 20 h) are characterized through experimental data: first, a preliminary linearity study is performed for a fixed input voltage amplitude in order to determine the frequency region where IPMC can be approximated as linear; then, a frequency analysis is carried out in order to identify a coherent fractional-order dynamics in the bode diagrams. Such analyses take the first steps towards a simplified model of IPMC as a compact electronic FOE for which the fractional exponent value depends on fabrication parameters as the absorption time.
Wavelet-Based Homotopy Analysis Method for Nonlinear Matrix System and Its Application in Burgers Equation
Authors: Ruyi Xing
Published: June 2013

To generalize the homotopy analysis method (HAM) to multidegree-of-freedom nonlinear system, the adaptive precise integration method (APIM) is introduced into the HAM, with which the almost exact value of the exponential matrix can be obtained. Combining the interval interpolation wavelet collocation method, HAM-based APIM can be employed to solve the nonlinear PDEs. As an example, Burgers equation is spatially discretized by the interval quasi-Shannon wavelet collocation method and solved by the proposed method to illustrate the effectiveness and great potential of the homotopy analysis method in nonlinear problems.
Arsenic Exposure and Cancer Mortality in a US-Based Prospective Cohort: The Strong Heart Study
Authors: García-Esquinas Esther , Pollán Marina , Umans Jason G. , Francesconi Kevin A. , Goessler Walter , Guallar Eliseo , Howard Barbara , Farley John , Best Lyle G. , Navas–Acien Ana
Published: June 2013

Background: Inorganic arsenic, a carcinogen at high exposure levels, is a major global health problem. Prospective studies on carcinogenic effects at low–moderate arsenic levels are lacking.

Methods: We evaluated the association between baseline arsenic exposure and cancer mortality in 3,932 American Indians, 45 to 74 years of age, from Arizona, Oklahoma, and North/South Dakota who participated in the Strong Heart Study from 1989 to 1991 and were followed through 2008. We estimated inorganic arsenic exposure as the sum of inorganic and methylated species in urine. Cancer deaths (386 overall, 78 lung, 34 liver, 18 prostate, 26 kidney, 24 esophagus/stomach, 25 pancreas, 32 colon/rectal, 26 breast, and 40 lymphatic/hematopoietic) were assessed by mortality surveillance reviews. We hypothesized an association with lung, liver, prostate, and kidney cancers.

Results: Median (interquartile range) urine concentration for inorganic plus methylated arsenic species was 9.7 (5.8–15.6) μg/g creatinine. The adjusted HRs [95% confidence interval (CI)] comparing the 80th versus 20th percentiles of arsenic were 1.14 (0.92–1.41) for overall cancer, 1.56 (1.02–2.39) for lung cancer, 1.34 (0.66, 2.72) for liver cancer, 3.30 (1.28–8.48) for prostate cancer, and 0.44 (0.14, 1.14) for kidney cancer. The corresponding hazard ratios were 2.46 (1.09–5.58) for pancreatic cancer, and 0.46 (0.22–0.96) for lymphatic and hematopoietic cancers. Arsenic was not associated with cancers of the esophagus and stomach, colon and rectum, and breast.

Conclusions: Low to moderate exposure to inorganic arsenic was prospectively associated with increased mortality for cancers of the lung, prostate, and pancreas.

Impact: These findings support the role of low–moderate arsenic exposure in development of lung, prostate, and pancreas cancer and can inform arsenic risk assessment. Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev; 22(11); 1944–53. ©2013 AACR.
Geometrical and Volume Changes of the Membranous Vestibular Labyrinth in Guinea Pigs with Endolymphatic Hydrops
Authors: Wu Caiqin , Yang Lin , Hua Cheng , Wang Keqiang , Zhang Tianyu , Dai Peidong
Published: June 2013

Objective: To evaluate geometrical and volume changes of membranous vestibular labyrinths in guinea pigs after endolymphatic hydrops (EH). Methods: The membranous labyrinths of normal guinea pigs and of those with EH for 4 and 8 weeks were reconstructed after being scanned using micro-computed tomography subseqent to being stained in osmium tetroxide (OsO4). The diameters and volumes of the semicircular ducts, ampullae, utricles and saccules were measured based on the three-dimensional models. Results: The diameters of the ampullae and utricles of EH guinea pigs were greater than those of the normal guinea pigs, while there were no significant differences in the diameters of the semicircular ducts among all groups. The volumes of ampullae, utricles and saccules of the EH groups were greater than those of the control group, but there were no changes in volumes of semicircular ducts after EH. Conclusion: The dilations of the membranous vestibular labyrinth in guinea pigs with EH mainly occur at the ampullae, utricles and saccules.