bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Prostaglandin E2 induces chloride secretion through crosstalk between cAMP and calcium signaling in mouse inner medullary collecting duct cells
Authors: Rajagopal Madhumitha , Thomas Sheela V. , Kathpalia Paru P. , Chen Yu , Pao Alan C.
Published: November 2013

Under conditions of high dietary salt intake, prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) production is increased in the collecting duct and promotes urinary sodium chloride (NaCl) excretion; however, the molecular mechanisms by which PGE2 increases NaCl excretion in this context have not been clearly defined. We used the mouse inner medullary collecting duct (mIMCD)-K2 cell line to characterize mechanisms underlying PGE2-regulated NaCl transport. When epithelial Na+ channels were inhibited, PGE2 exclusively stimulated basolateral EP4 receptors to increase short-circuit current ( IscPGE2). We found that IscPGE2 was sensitive to inhibition by H-89 and CFTR-172, indicating that EP4 receptors signal through protein kinase A to induce Cl− secretion via cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR). Unexpectedly, we also found that IscPGE2 was sensitive to inhibition by BAPTA-AM (Ca2+ chelator), 2-aminoethoxydiphenyl borate (2-APB) (inositol triphosphate receptor blocker), and flufenamic acid (FFA) [Ca2+-activated Cl− channel (CACC) inhibitor], suggesting that EP4 receptors also signal through Ca2+ to induce Cl− secretion via CACC. Additionally, we observed that PGE2 stimulated an increase in Isc through crosstalk between cAMP and Ca2+ signaling; BAPTA-AM or 2-APB inhibited a component of IscPGE2 that was sensitive to CFTR-172 inhibition; H-89 inhibited a component of IscPGE2 that was sensitive to FFA inhibition. Together, our findings indicate that PGE2 activates basolateral EP4 receptors and signals through both cAMP and Ca2+ to stimulate Cl− secretion in IMCD-K2 cells. We propose that these signaling pathways, and the crosstalk between them, may provide a concerted mechanism for enhancing urinary NaCl excretion under conditions of high dietary NaCl intake.
Parenteral vs. oral iron: influence on hepcidin signaling pathways through analysis of Hfe/Tfr2-null mice
Authors: McDonald Cameron J. , Wallace Daniel F. , Ostini Lesa , Subramaniam V. Nathan
Published: November 2013

Treatment for iron deficiency anemia can involve iron supplementation via dietary or parenteral routes that result in different cellular iron distributions. The effect of the administered iron on the iron regulatory system and hepcidin in the liver has not been well studied. Hepcidin, the liver-expressed central iron-regulatory peptide, is itself regulated through the bone morphogenetic protein (BMP)/SMAD signaling pathway. Specifically, Bmp6 expression is upregulated in response to iron and induces hepcidin through phosphorylation of Smad1/5/8. The hemochromatosis-associated proteins Hfe and transferrin receptor 2 (Tfr2) are known upstream regulators of hepcidin, although their precise roles are still unclear. To investigate the mechanisms of this regulation and the roles of the Hfe and Tfr2, we subjected wild-type, Hfe−/−, Tfr2−/−, and Hfe−/−/ Tfr2−/− mice to iron loading via dietary or parenteral routes. Systematic analysis demonstrated that Tfr2 is required for effective upregulation of Bmp6 in response to hepatocyte iron, but not nonparenchymal iron. Hfe is not required for Bmp6 upregulation, regardless of iron localization, but rather, is required for efficient downstream transmission of the regulatory signal. Our results demonstrate that Hfe and Tfr2 play separate roles in the regulatory responses to iron compartmentalized in different cell types and further elucidates the regulatory mechanisms controlling iron homeostasis.
Epoxyeicosatrienoic acids pretreatment improves amyloid β-induced mitochondrial dysfunction in cultured rat hippocampal astrocytes
Authors: Sarkar Pallabi , Zaja Ivan , Bienengraeber Martin , Rarick Kevin R. , Terashvili Maia , Canfield Scott , Falck John R. , Harder David R.
Published: November 2013

Amyloid-β (Aβ) has long been implicated as a causative protein in Alzheimer's disease. Cellular Aβ accumulation is toxic and causes mitochondrial dysfunction, which precedes clinical symptoms of Alzheimer's disease pathology. In the present study, we explored the possible use of epoxyeicosatrienoic acids (EETs), epoxide metabolites of arachidonic acid, as therapeutic target against Aβ-induced mitochondrial impairment using cultured neonatal hippocampal astrocytes. Inhibition of endogenous EET production by a selective epoxygenase inhibitor, MS-PPOH, caused a greater reduction in mitochondrial membrane potential in the presence of Aβ (1, 10 μM) exposure versus absence of Aβ. MS-PPOH preincubation also aggravated Aβ-induced mitochondrial fragmentation. Preincubation of the cells with either 14,15- or 11,12-EET prevented this mitochondrial depolarization and fragmentation. EET pretreatment also further improved the reduction observed in mitochondrial oxygen consumption in the presence of Aβ. Preincubation of the cells with EETs significantly improved cellular respiration under basal condition and in the presence of the protonophore, carbonyl cyanide 4-(trifluoromethoxy) phenylhydrazone (FCCP). The uncoupling of ATP synthase from the electron transfer chain that occurred in Aβ-treated cells was also prevented by preincubation with EETs. Lastly, cellular reactive oxygen species production, a hallmark of Aβ toxicity, also showed significant reduction in the presence of EETs. We have previously shown that Aβ reduces EET synthesis in rat brain homogenates and cultured hippocampal astrocytes and neurons (Sarkar P, Narayanan J, Harder DR. Differential effect of amyloid beta on the cytochrome P450 epoxygenase activity in rat brain. Neuroscience 194: 241–249, 2011). We conclude that reduction of endogenous EETs may be one of the mechanisms through which Aβ inflicts toxicity and thus supplementing the cells with exogenous EETs improves mitochondrial dynamics and prevents metabolic impairment.
Purinergic 2X receptors play a role in evoking the exercise pressor reflex in rats with peripheral artery insufficiency
Authors: Stone Audrey J. , Yamauchi Katsuya , Kaufman Marc P.
Published: November 2013

Purinergic 2X (P2X) receptors on the endings of thin fiber afferents have been shown to play a role in evoking the exercise pressor reflex in cats. In this study, we attempted to extend this finding to decerebrated, unanesthetized rats whose femoral arteries were either freely perfused or were ligated 72 h before the start of the experiment. We first established that our dose of pyridoxal phosphate-6-azophenyl-2′,4′-disulfonic acid (PPADS; 10 mg/kg), a P2X receptor antagonist, attenuated the pressor response to α,β-methylene ATP (10 μg/kg), a P2X receptor agonist. We then compared the exercise pressor reflex before and after infusing PPADS into the arterial supply of the hindlimb muscles that were statically contracted. In rats with freely perfused femoral arteries, the peak pressor responses to contraction were not significantly attenuated by PPADS (before PPADS: 19 ± 2 mmHg, 13 min after PPADS: 17 ± 2 mmHg, and 25 min after PPADS: 17 ± 3 mmHg). Likewise, the cardioaccelerator and renal sympathetic nerve responses were not significantly attenuated. In contrast, we found that in rats whose femoral arteries were ligated PPADS significantly attenuated the peak pressor responses to contraction (before PPADS: 37 ± 5 mmHg, 13 min after PPADS: 27 ± 6 mmHg, and 25 min after PPADS: 25 ± 5 mmHg; P < 0.05). Heart rate was not significantly attenuated, but renal SNA was at certain time points over the 30-s contraction period. We conclude that P2X receptors play a substantial role in evoking the exercise pressor reflex in rats whose femoral arteries were ligated but play only a minimal role in evoking the reflex in rats whose femoral arteries were freely perfused.
A mathematical model of long-term renal sympathetic nerve activity inhibition during an increase in sodium intake
Authors: Karaaslan Fatih , Denizhan Yagmur , Hester Robert
Published: November 2013

It is well known that renal nerves directly affect renal vascular resistance, tubular sodium reabsorption, and renin secretion. Inhibition of renal sympathetic nerve activity (RSNA) decreases renal vascular resistance, tubular sodium reabsorption, and renin secretion, leading to an increase in sodium excretion. Although several studies show that inhibition of RSNA promotes sodium excretion during an acute blood volume expansion, there is limited research relating to the importance of RSNA inhibition that contributes to sodium homeostasis during a long-term increase in sodium intake. Therefore, to dissect the underlying mechanisms of sodium excretion, a mathematical model of a cardiovascular system consisting of two kidneys, each with an independent RSNA, was developed. Simulations were performed to determine the responses of RSNA and sodium excretion to an increased sodium intake. In these simulations, RSNA in the left kidney was fixed at its normal steady-state value, while RSNA in the contralateral kidney was allowed to change normally in response to the increased sodium intake. The results demonstrate that the fixed-RSNA kidney excretes less sodium than the intact-RSNA collateral kidney. Because each kidney is exposed to the same arterial pressure and circulatory hormones, the impaired sodium excretion in the absence of RSNA inhibition supports the hypothesis that RSNA inhibition contributes to natriuresis in response to a long-term increase in sodium intake.
Phosphorylation of myosin regulatory light chain has minimal effect on kinetics and distribution of orientations of cross bridges of rabbit skeletal muscle
Authors: Duggal Divya , Nagwekar Janhavi , Rich Ryan , Midde Krishna , Fudala Rafal , Gryczynski Ignacy , Borejdo Julian
Published: November 2013

Force production in muscle results from ATP-driven cyclic interactions of myosin with actin. A myosin cross bridge consists of a globular head domain, containing actin and ATP-binding sites, and a neck domain with the associated light chain 1 (LC1) and the regulatory light chain (RLC). The actin polymer serves as a “rail” over which myosin translates. Phosphorylation of the RLC is thought to play a significant role in the regulation of muscle relaxation by increasing the degree of skeletal cross-bridge disorder and increasing muscle ATPase activity. The effect of phosphorylation on skeletal cross-bridge kinetics and the distribution of orientations during steady-state contraction of rabbit muscle is investigated here. Because the kinetics and orientation of an assembly of cross bridges (XBs) can only be studied when an individual XB makes a significant contribution to the overall signal, the number of observed XBs was minimized to ∼20 by limiting the detection volume and concentration of fluorescent XBs. The autofluorescence and photobleaching from an ex vivo sample was reduced by choosing a dye that was excited in the red and observed in the far red. The interference from scattering was eliminated by gating the signal. These techniques decrease large uncertainties associated with determination of the effect of phosphorylation on a few molecules ex vivo with millisecond time resolution. In spite of the remaining uncertainties, we conclude that the state of phosphorylation of RLC had no effect on the rate of dissociation of cross bridges from thin filaments, on the rate of myosin head binding to thin filaments, and on the rate of power stroke. On the other hand, phosphorylation slightly increased the degree of disorder of active cross bridges.
Control of renin secretion from kidneys with renin cell hyperplasia
Authors: Kurt Birgül , Karger Christian , Wagner Charlotte , Kurtz Armin
Published: November 2013

In states of loss-of-function mutations of the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system, kidneys develop a strong hyperplasia of renin-producing cells. Those additional renin cells are located outside the classic juxtaglomerular areas, mainly in the walls of preglomerular vessels and most prominently in multilayers surrounding afferent arterioles. Since the functional behavior of those ectopic renin cells is yet unknown, we aimed to characterize the control of renin secretion from kidneys with renin cell hyperplasia. As a model, we used kidneys from mice lacking aldosterone synthase (AS−/−mice), which displayed 10-fold elevations of renin mRNA and plasma renin concentrations. On the absolute level, renin secretion from isolated AS−/−kidneys was more than 10-fold increased over wild-type kidneys. On the relative level, the stimulation of renin secretion by the β-adrenergic activator isoproterenol or by lowering of the concentration of extracellular Ca2+was very similar between the two genotypes. In addition, the inhibitory effects of ANG II and of perfusion pressure were similar between the two genotypes. Deletion of connexin40 blunted the pressure dependency of renin secretion and the stimulatory effect of low extracellular Ca2+on renin secretion in the same manner in kidneys of AS−/−mice as in wild-type mice. Our findings suggest a high degree of functional similarity between renin cells originating during development and located at different positions in the adult kidney. They also suggest a high similarity in the expression of membrane proteins relevant for the control of renin secretion, such as β1-adrenergic receptors, ANG II type 1 receptors, and connexin40.
Respiratory motor outputs following unilateral midcervical spinal cord injury in the adult rat
Authors: Lee Kun-Ze , Huang Yi-Jia , Tsai I-Lun
Published: November 2013

The present study was designed to investigate the impact of midcervical spinal cord injury on respiratory outputs and compare respiratory recovery following high- vs. midcervical spinal injury. A unilateral hemisection (Hx) in the spinal cord at C2or C4was performed in adult rats. Respiratory behaviors of unanesthetized animals were measured at normoxic baseline and hypercapnia by whole body plethysmography at 1 day and 1, 2, 4, and 8 wk after spinal injury. C2Hx and C4Hx induced a similar rapid shallow breathing pattern at 1 day postinjury. The respiratory frequency of C4Hx animals gradually returned to normal, but the tidal volume from 1 to 8 wk postinjury remained lower than that of the control animals. Linear regression analyses indicated that the tidal volume recovery was greater in the C4Hx animals than in the C2Hx animals at the baseline, but not at hypercapnia. The bilateral phrenic nerve activity was recorded in anesthetized animals under different respiratory drives at 8–9 wk postinjury. The phrenic burst amplitude ipsilateral to the lesion reduced following both high- and midcervical Hx; however, the ability to increase activity was lower in the C4Hx animals than in the C2Hx animals. When the data were normalized by the maximal inspiratory effort during asphyxia, the phrenic burst amplitude enhanced in the C4Hx animals, but reduced in the C2Hx animals compared with the control animals. These results suggest that respiratory deficits are evident following midcervical Hx, and that respiratory recovery and neuroplasticity of phrenic outputs are different following high- vs. midcervical spinal injury.
Effects of unilateral deactivations of dorsolateral prefrontal cortex and anterior cingulate cortex on saccadic eye movements
Authors: Koval Michael J. , Hutchison R. Matthew , Lomber Stephen G. , Everling Stefan
Published: November 2013

The dorsolateral prefrontal cortex (dlPFC) and anterior cingulate cortex (ACC) have both been implicated in the cognitive control of saccadic eye movements by single neuron recording studies in nonhuman primates and functional imaging studies in humans, but their relative roles remain unclear. Here, we reversibly deactivated either dlPFC or ACC subregions in macaque monkeys while the animals performed randomly interleaved pro- and antisaccades. In addition, we explored the whole-brain functional connectivity of these two regions by applying a seed-based resting-state functional MRI analysis in a separate cohort of monkeys. We found that unilateral dlPFC deactivation had stronger behavioral effects on saccades than unilateral ACC deactivation, and that the dlPFC displayed stronger functional connectivity with frontoparietal areas than the ACC. We suggest that the dlPFC plays a more prominent role in the preparation of pro- and antisaccades than the ACC.
SAR Image Despeckling with Adaptive Multiscale Products Based on Directionlet Transform
Authors: Lu Yixiang , Gao Qingwei , Sun Dong , Zhang Dexiang
Published: December 2013

Synthetic aperture radar (SAR) images are inherently affected by multiplicative speckle noise generated by radar coherent wave. In this paper, a new despeckling algorithm based on directionlets using multiscale products is proposed. We first take an anisotropic directionlet transform on the logarithmically transformed SAR images and multiply the coefficients at adjacent scales to enhance the details of image under consideration. Then, different from traditional thresholding methods, a threshold is applied to the multiscale products of the directionlet coefficients to suppress noise. Since the multiplication amplifies the significant features of signal and dilute noise, the proposed method reduces noise effectively while preserving edge structures. Finally, we compare the performance of the proposed algorithm with other despeckling methods applied to synthetic image and real SAR images. Experimental results demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed method in SAR images despeckling.
Gm‐Realization of Controlled‐Gain Current Follower Transconductance Amplifier
Authors: Tangsrirat Worapong
Published: November 2013

This paper describes the conception of the current follower transconductance amplifier (CFTA) with electronically and linearly current tunable. The newly modified element is realized based on the use of transconductance cells (Gms) as core circuits. The advantage of this element is that the current transfer ratios (iz/ip and ix/iz) can be tuned electronically and linearly by adjusting external DC bias currents. The circuit is designed and analyzed in 0.35 μm TSMC CMOS technology. Simulation results for the circuit with ±1.25 V supply voltages show that it consumes only 0.43 mw quiescent power with 70 MHz bandwidth. As an application example, a current‐mode KHN biquad filter is designed and simulated.
Effects of SuperUlam on Supporting Concentration and Mood: A Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Crossover Study
Authors: Udani Jay K
Published: November 2013

Background. SuperUlam is a proprietary blend of natural ingredients aimed at supporting brain health. We aimed to evaluate the effect of SuperUlam on attention and mood in healthy adults.Methods. Twenty healthy individuals aged 35–65 were enrolled in this randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, crossover study. Study duration was 3 weeks and consisted of 3 visits. Measurement of cognitive function included computer-based testing of reaction time, complex attention, working memory, sustained attention, and executive functioning. Mood testing was performed via the profile of mood states (POMS) survey and the Chalder fatigue scale.Results. Cognitive function testing demonstrated a significant improvement from baseline in executive functioning, cognitive flexibility, reaction time, and working memory in the product group only (P<0.05). When comparing the study product to placebo, the data demonstrated a significant decrease in tension, depression, and anger (P<0.05). There was no significant difference between the product and placebo in the other measures of mood, including vigor, fatigue, confusion, and total mood disturbance. No adverse events were reported.Conclusions.Supplementation with SuperUlam is safe to consume with potential benefits to cognitive function and mood.
Activation of Dendritic Cells by the Novel Toll-Like Receptor 3 Agonist RGC100
Authors: Naumann Kai , Wehner Rebekka , Schwarze Anett , Petzold Christiane , Schmitz Marc , Rohayem Jacques
Published: December 2013

Toll-like receptor (TLR) 3 agonists emerged as attractive candidates for vaccination strategies against tumors and pathogens. An important mechanism of action of such agonists is based on the activation of TLR3-expressing dendritic cells (DCs), which display a unique capacity to induce and stimulate T-cell responses. In this context, it has been demonstrated that targeting of TLR3 by double-stranded RNA such as poly(I:C) results in potent activation of DCs. Major disadvantages of poly(I:C) comprise its undefined chemical structure and very poor homogeneity, with subsequent unpredictable pharmacokinetics and high toxicity. In the present study, we evaluated the physicochemical properties and biological activity of the novel TLR3 agonist RGC100. RGC100 has a defined chemical structure, with a defined length (100 bp) and molecular weight (64.9 KDa) and a good solubility. RGC100 is stable in serum and activates myeloid DCs through TLR3 targeting, as evidenced by gene silencing experiments. Activation of mouse and human myeloid CD1c+DCs by RGC100 leads to secretion of several proinflammatory cytokines. In addition, RGC100 improves the ability of CD1c+DCs to stimulate T-cell proliferation. Due to its physicochemical properties and its immunostimulatory properties, RGC100 may represent a promising adjuvant for prophylactic and therapeutic vaccination strategies.
Construction of the Control System of Cleaning Robots with Vision Guidance
Authors: Lan Tian-Syung , Yeh Long-Ji , Chiu Min-Chie , Hwang You-Xiang
Published: November 2013

The study uses Kinect, modern and depth detectable photography equipment to detect objects on the ground and above the ground. The data collected is used to construct a model on ground level, that is, used lead automatic guiding vehicle. The core of the vehicle uses a PIC18F4520 microchip. Bluetooth wireless communication is adopted for remote connection to a computer, which is used to control the vehicles remotely. Operators send movement command to automatic guiding vehicle through computer. Once the destination point is identified, the vehicle lead is forward. The guiding process will map out a path that directs the vehicle to the destination and void any obstacles. The study is based on existing cleaning robots that are available. Aside from fixed point movement, through data analysis, the system is also capable of identifying objects that are not supposed to appear on the ground, such as aluminum cans. By configuring the destination to aluminum cans, the automatic guiding vehicle will lead to a can and pick it up. Such action is the realization of cleaning function.
Effect of Chronic Morphine Consumption on Synaptic Plasticity of Rat’s Hippocampus: A Transmission Electron Microscopy Study
Authors: Heidari Mohammad Hassan , Amini Abdollah , Bahrami Zohreh , Shahriari Ali , Movafag Abolfazle , Heidari Reihane
Published: November 2013

It is well known that the synapses undergo some changes in the brain during the course of normal life and under certain pathological or experimental circumstances. One of the main goals of numerous researchers has been to find the reasons for these structural changes. In the present study, we investigated the effects of chronic morphine consumption on synaptic plasticity, postsynaptic density thickness, and synaptic curvatures of hippocampus CA1 area of rats. So for reaching these goals, 24N-Mary male rats were randomly divided into three groups, morphine (n=8), placebo (n=8), and control (n=8) groups. In the morphine group, complex of morphine (0.1, 0.2, 0.3, and 0.4) mg/mL and in the placebo (sucrose) group complex of sucrose (% 0.3) were used for 21 days. After the end of drug treatment the animals were scarified and perfused intracardinally and finally the CA1 hippocampal samples were taken for ultrastructural studies, and then the obtained data were analyzed by SPSS and one-way analysis of variance. Our data indicated that synaptic numbers per nm3change significantly in morphine group compared to the other two groups (placebo and control) (P<0.001) and also statistical analysis revealed a significant difference between groups in terms of thickness of postsynaptic density (P<0.001) and synaptic curvature (P<0.007). It seems that morphine dependence in rats plays a main role in the ultrastructural changes of hippocampus.
SSE: A Secure Searchable Encryption Scheme for Urban Sensing and Querying
Authors: Wen Mi , Lei Jingsheng , Bi Zhongqin
Published: December 2013

With the distributed sensors that are deployed to monitor the urban environment in smart cities, the sensed data are overwhelming and beyond the scope of the wireless sensor networks (WSNs) capability. Due to the communication range limits of the sensors, most of these data will be outsourced and stored on some untrusted servers. Thus, how to maintain the data confidentiality and integrity, as well as source authentication and data query privacy of the outsourced data, is a challenging problem. In this paper, we propose a secure searchable encryption scheme, named SSE, for urban sensing and querying to address the problem. Specifically, our SSE constructs a secure hidden vector encryption-(HVE-) based rang query predicate. The sensed data can be stored on an untrusted server in encrypted form. A requester can obtain the correct ciphertexts when his authorized range query matches the HVE-based encryption predicate. With the help of the base station, the ciphertexts can be decrypted and data integrity can be verified; then, the requester can obtain the correct original data. Security analysis demonstrates that; in the SSE, only the authorized requesters can obtain the query results, while the data confidentiality and integrity and source authentication are also preserved.
Overmodulation Control in the Optimization of a H-PDLC Device with Ethyl Eosin as Dye
Authors: Ortuño Manuel , Riquelme Marina , Gallego Sergi , Márquez Andrés , Pascual Inmaculada , Beléndez Augusto
Published: December 2013

The response of a H-PDLC device is improved by means of a two-step method. First, component optimization—initiator system, crosslinker, and cosolvent—enables the diffraction efficiency of the hologram to be maximized. Second, the use of N-methyl-2-pyrrolidone in combination with N-vinyl-2-pyrrolidone prevents the overmodulation in photopolymers containing ethyl eosin.
MagnoliaExtract (BL153) Ameliorates Kidney Damage in a High Fat Diet-Induced Obesity Mouse Model
Authors: Cui Wenpeng , Wang Yangwei , Chen Qiang , Sun Weixia , Cai Lu , Tan Yi , Kim Ki-Soo , Kim Ki Ho , Kim Young Heui
Published: November 2013

Accumulating evidence demonstrated that obesity is a risk factor for renal structural and functional changes, leading to the end-stage renal disease which imposes a heavy economic burden on the community. However, no effective therapeutic method for obesity-associated kidney disease is available. In the present study, we explored the therapeutic potential of amagnoliaextract (BL153) for treating obesity-associated kidney damage in a high fat diet- (HFD-) induced mouse model. The results showed that inflammation markers (tumor necrosis factor-αand plasminogen activator inhibitor-1) and oxidative stress markers (3-nitrotyrosine and 4-hydroxy-2-nonenal) were all significantly increased in the kidney of HFD-fed mice compared to mice fed with a low fat diet (LFD). Additionally, proteinuria and renal structure changes in HFD-fed mice were much more severe than that in LFD-fed mice. However, all these alterations were attenuated by BL153 treatment, accompanied by upregulation of peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-γcoactivator-1α(PGC-1α) and hexokinase II (HK II) expression in the kidney. The present study indicates that BL153 administration may be a novel approach for renoprotection in obese individuals by antiinflammation and anti-oxidative stress most likely via upregulation of PGC-1αand HK II signal in the kidney.
Diffuse Leukoencephalopathy and Subacute Parkinsonism as an Early Manifestation of Systemic Lupus Erythematosus
Authors: Tse Gary G. , Santos-Ocampo Alberto S. , Chow Dominic C. , McMurtray Aaron M. , Nakamoto Beau K.
Published: November 2013

Parkinsonism in SLE is rare. Diffuse leukoencephalopathy is equally uncommon and is associated with a poor prognosis. We present a single case of a 50-year-old Filipino man who presented with a generalized discoid rash after starting lisinopril. The rash persisted despite discontinuation of lisinopril, and over the next three months, he developed rapidly progressive parkinsonism. Brain MRI showed symmetric confluent T2-hyperintensities involving the white matter and basal ganglia. Four of the 11 American College of Rheumatology criteria for the classification of SLE were met. A rheumatologist made a diagnosis of SLE with cutaneous and central nervous system involvement. Significant neurologic and radiologic improvement occurred following treatment with IV steroids followed by a prolonged taper. This report highlights a case of subacute parkinsonism with a diffuse leukoencephalopathy as an early manifestation of SLE which resulted in a good recovery following treatment with only immunosuppressive therapy.
Leptomeningeal Cells Transduce Peripheral Macrophages Inflammatory Signal to Microglia in Reponse toPorphyromonas gingivalisLPS
Authors: Liu Yicong , Wu Zhou , Zhang Xinwen , Ni Junjun , Yu Weixian , Zhou Yanmin , Nakanishi Hiroshi
Published: December 2013

We report here that the leptomeningeal cells transduce inflammatory signals from peripheral macrophages to brain-resident microglia in response toPorphyromonas gingivalis (P.g.)LPS. The expression of Toll-like receptor 2 (TLR2), TLR4, TNF-α, and inducible NO synthase was mainly detected in the gingival macrophages of chronic periodontitis patients. Inin vitrostudies,P.g.LPS induced the secretion of TNF-αand IL-1βfrom THP-1 human monocyte-like cell line and RAW264.7 mouse macrophages. Surprisingly, the mean mRNA levels of TNF-αand IL-1βin leptomeningeal cells after treatment with the conditioned medium fromP.g.LPS-stimulated RAW264.7 macrophages were significantly higher than those after treatment withP.g.LPS alone. Furthermore, the mean mRNA levels of TNF-αand IL-1βin microglia after treatment with the conditioned medium fromP.g.LPS-stimulated leptomeningeal cells were significantly higher than those afterP.g.LPS alone. These observations suggest that leptomeninges serve as an important route for transducing inflammatory signals from macrophages to microglia by secretion of proinflammatory mediators during chronic periodontitis. Moreover, propolis significantly reduced theP.g.LPS-induced TNF-αand IL-1βproduction by leptomeningeal cells through inhibiting the nuclear factor-κB signaling pathway. Together with the inhibitory effect on microglial activation, propolis may be beneficial in preventing neuroinflammation during chronic periodontitis.
Antioxidants Supplementation in Elderly Cardiovascular Patients
Authors: Otero-Losada Matilde , Vila Susana , Azzato F. , Milei José
Published: November 2013

Supplementation with antioxidants and its benefit-risk relationship have been largely discussed in the elderly population. We evaluated whether antioxidants supplementation improved the biochemical profile associated with oxidative metabolism in elderly cardiovascular patients. Patients (n=112) received daily supplementation withα-TP 400 mg, beta-carotene 40 mg, and vitamin C 1000 mg for 2 months (treatment). Plasma concentrations of alpha-tocopherol (α-TP),β-carotene (βC), ubiquinol-10 (QH-10), glutathione, and thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS) were determined before and after treatment. Response to treatment was dependent on pretreatmentα-TP andβC levels. Increase inα-TP andβC levels was observed only in patients with basal levels <18 μM forα-TP (P<0.01) and <0.30 μM forβC (P<0.02). Ubiquinol-10, glutathione, and TBARS were unaffected by treatment: QH-10 (+57%, F1,110=3.611,P<0.06, and N.S.), glutathione (+21%, F1,110=2.92,P<0.09, and N.S.), and TBARS (−29%, F1,110=2.26,P<0.14, and N.S.). Treatment reduced oxidative metabolism: 5.3% versus 14.6% basal value (F1,110=9.21,P<0.0003). Basal TBARS/α-TP ratio was higher in smokers compared to nonsmokers: 0.11 ± 0.02 versus 0.06 ± 0.01 (F32,80=1.63,P<0.04). Response to antioxidant supplementation was dependent on basal plasma levels ofα-TP andβC. Smoking status was strongly associated with atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease and high TBARS/α-TP ratio (lipid peroxidation).
Role of microRNAs in Stroke and Poststroke Depression
Authors: Yan Han , Fang Min , Liu Xue-Yuan
Published: December 2013

microRNAs (miRNA), a sort of noncoding RNAs widely distributed in eukaryotic cells, could regulate gene expression by inhibiting transcription or translation. They were involved in important physiological and pathological processes including growth, development, and occurrence and progression of diseases. miRNAs are crucial for the development of the nervous system. Recent studies have demonstrated that some miRNAs play important roles in the occurrence and development of ischemic cerebrovascular diseases such as stroke and were also involved in the occurrence and development of poststroke depression (PSD). Herein, studies on the role of miRNAs in the cerebral ischemia and PSD were reviewed, and results may be helpful for the diagnosis and prognosis of cerebral ischemia and PSD with miRNAs in clinical practice.
Applications of Soft Union Sets in the Ring Theory
Authors: Yang Yongwei , Xin Xiaolong , He Pengfei
Published: December 2013

The aim of the paper is to lay a foundation for providing a soft algebraic tool in considering many problems that contain uncertainties. In order to provide these soft algebraic structures, the notion ofλ,μ-soft union rings which is a generalization of that of soft union rings is proposed. By introducing the notion of soft cosets, soft quotient rings based onλ,μ-soft union ideals are established. Moreover, through discussing quotient soft subsets, an approach for constructing quotient soft union rings is made. Finally, isomorphism theorems ofλ,μ-soft union rings related to invariant soft sets are discussed.
Research on Longitudinal Vibration Characteristic of the Six-Cable-Driven Parallel Manipulator in FAST
Authors: Liu Zhihua , Tang Xiaoqiang , Shao Zhufeng , Wang Liping , Tang Lewei
Published: December 2013

The first adjustable feed support system in FAST is a six-cable-driven parallel manipulator. Due to flexibility of the cables, the cable-driven parallel manipulator bears a concern of possible vibration caused by wind disturbance or internal force from the fine drive system. The purpose of this paper is to analyze vibration characteristic of the six-cable-driven parallel manipulator in FAST. The tension equilibrium equation of the six-cable-driven parallel manipulator is set up regarding the cables as catenaries. Then, vibration equation is established considering the longitudinal vibration of the cables. On this basis, the natural frequencies are depicted in figures since both analytical and numerical solutions are ineffective. Influence of the sags of the cables on the natural frequencies is discussed. It is shown that the sags of the cables will decrease the natural frequencies of the six-cable-driven parallel manipulator. Simplification to acquire the natural frequencies is proposed in this paper. The results justify effectiveness of the simplification to calculate the first-order natural frequencies. Distribution of the first-order natural frequencies in the required workspace is provided based on the simplification method. Finally, parameters optimization is implemented in terms of natural frequencies for building the six-cable-driven parallel manipulator in FAST.
Treatment of Pathological Bone Fractures in a Patient with McCune-Albright Syndrome
Authors: Kollerova Jana , Koller Tomas , Zelinkova Zuzana , Kostalova Ludmila , Payer Juraj
Published: November 2013

McCune-Albright syndrome is a rare genetic disorder with typical skeletal and endocrine manifestations. The disease course is complicated by recurrent fractures resulting from polyostotic fibrous dysplasia and the treatment is thus primarily directed at the reduction of the risk of fractures. However, due to the complex mechanism of the skeletal damage the standard antiporotic therapeutics are ineffective. We report here a case of a 31-year-old female, diagnosed with the McCune-Albright syndrome in early childhood. She was suffering from extensive bone involvement, complicated by recurrent fractures despite the treatment with bisphosphonates. In addition, the disease course was complicated by the impairment of several endocrine functions—precocious puberty, hyperestrogenism, and hyperthyroidism for which a total thyroidectomy was performed. During the operation, two enlarged parathyroid glands were removed. This resulted in severe hypocalcaemia in the postoperative period with a need for supplementation with very high calcium and vitamin D doses. After this episode, the patient has remained free of fractures. We discuss here the corrected thyroid function, the supplementation with unconventionally high doses of vitamin D and calcium, and the termination of bisphosphonates treatment as presumable factors contributing to the reduced fracture risk in this patient.
Low-Level Laser Stimulation on Adipose-Tissue-Derived Stem Cell Treatments for Focal Cerebral Ischemia in Rats
Authors: Shen Chiung-Chyi , Yang Yi-Chin , Chiao Ming-Tsang , Chan Shiuh-Chuan , Liu Bai-Shuan
Published: December 2013

This study investigated the effects of large-area irradiation from a low-level laser on the proliferation and differentiation of i-ADSCs in neuronal cells. MTT assays indicated no significant difference between the amount of cells with (LS+) and without (LS−) laser treatment (P>0.05). However, immunofluorescent staining and western blot analysis results indicated a significant increase in the neural stem-cell marker, nestin, following exposure to low-level laser irradiation (P<0.05). Furthermore, stem cell implantation was applied to treat rats suffering from stroke. At 28 days posttreatment, the motor functions of the rats treated using i-ADSCs (LS+) did not differ greatly from those in the sham group and HE-stained brain tissue samples exhibited near-complete recovery with nearly no brain tissue damage. However, the motor functions of the rats treated using i-ADSCs (LS−) remained somewhat dysfunctional and tissue displayed necrotic scarring and voids. The western blot analysis also revealed significant expression of oligo-2 in the rats treated using i-ADSCs (LS+) as well as in the sham group (P<0.05). The results demonstrated that low-level laser irradiation exerts a positive effect on the differentiation of i-ADSCs and can be employed to treat rats suffering from ischemic stroke to regain motor functions.

Corrigendum to “Low-Level Laser Stimulation on Adipose-Tissue-Derived Stem Cell Treatments for Focal Cerebral Ischemia in Rats”
Dynamic Control and Disturbance Estimation of 3D Path Following for the Observation Class Underwater Remotely Operated Vehicle
Authors: Huang Hai , Tang Qirong , Li Yueming , Wan Lei , Pang Yongjie
Published: November 2013

This study addresses the question of 3D path following for the observation class underwater remotely operated vehicle. The dynamic model of the investigated remote operated vehicle is taken as a coupled multibody system composing of a flexible body and a rigid body. For precise control, the tether cable disturbance has been investigated as well via a dynamic model. Each element of the tethered cable even has been taken as an elastic body, and the waves and current disturbances have been taken into consideration. Based on the multibody system model, an adaptive backstepping sliding mode controller has been designed. To improve the controller's systematic robustness against disturbances, the sliding mode surface and adaptive control rule have been designed, too. Experiments have been performed in a tank, including the 3D path following controls of depth, heading, advance, sideway, polygon line, and spiral line. With current and wave disturbances having been taken into consideration, the tether effect has been analyzed, the efficacy and superiority of adaptive backstepping sliding mode control have been verified. It is further confirmed from the comparisons that the investigated method outperforms those S surface based controllers.
Single-Dimension Perturbation Glowworm Swarm Optimization Algorithm for Block Motion Estimation
Authors: Liu Xiangpin , Xuan Shibin , Liu Feng
Published: November 2013

In view of the fact that the classical fast motion estimation methods are easy to fall into local optimum and suffer the high computational cost, the convergence of the motion estimation method based on the swarm intelligence algorithm is very slow. A new block motion estimation method based on single-dimension perturbation glowworm swarm optimization algorithm is proposed. Single-dimension perturbation is a local search strategy which can improve the ability of local optimization. The proposed method not only has overcome the defect of falling into local optimum easily by taking use of both the global search ability of glowworm swarm optimization algorithm and the local optimization ability of single-dimension perturbation but also has reduced the computation complexity by using motion vector predictor and terminating strategies in view of the characteristic of video images. The experimental results show that the performance of the proposed method is better than that of other motion estimation methods for most video sequences, specifically for those video sequences with violent motion, and the searching precision has been improved obviously. Although the computational complexity of the proposed method is slightly higher than that of the classical methods, it is still far lower than that of full search method.
Chunk-Based Energy Efficient Resource Allocation in OFDMA Systems
Authors: Li Yong , Zheng Zhengguang , Zhao Mingyue , Jin Shan , Huang Zhangqin
Published: December 2013

Energy efficiency (EE) capacity analysis of the chunk-based resource allocation is presented by considering the minimum spectrum efficiency (SE) constraint in downlink multiuser orthogonal frequency division multiplexing (OFDM) systems. Considering the minimum SE requirement, an optimization problem to maximize EE with limited transmit power is formulated over frequency selective channels. Based on this model, a low-complexity energy efficient resource allocation is proposed. The effects of system parameters, such as the average channel gain-to-noise ratio (CNR) and the number of subcarriers per chunk, are evaluated. Numerical results demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed scheme for balancing the EE and SE.
Mann-Type Extragradient Methods for General Systems of Variational Inequalities with Multivalued Variational Inclusion Constraints in Banach Spaces
Authors: Ceng Lu-Chuan , Latif Abdul , Al-Mezel Saleh A.
Published: December 2013

We introduce Mann-type extragradient methods for a general system of variational inequalities with solutions of a multivalued variational inclusion and common fixed points of a countable family of nonexpansive mappings in real smooth Banach spaces. Here the Mann-type extragradient methods are based on Korpelevich’s extragradient method and Mann iteration method. We first consider and analyze a Mann-type extragradient algorithm in the setting of uniformly convex and 2-uniformly smooth Banach space and then another Mann-type extragradient algorithm in a smooth and uniformly convex Banach space. Under suitable assumptions, we derive some weak and strong convergence theorems. The results presented in this paper improve, extend, supplement, and develop the corresponding results announced in the earlier and very recent literature.
Scapulothoracic Anatomy and Snapping Scapula Syndrome
Authors: Frank Rachel M. , Ramirez Jose , Chalmers Peter N. , McCormick Frank M. , Romeo Anthony A.
Published: November 2013

The scapulothoracic articulation is a sliding junction between the deep aspect of the scapula and thoracic rib cage at the levels of ribs 2 through 7. Motion at this articulation is dynamically stabilized by a variety of muscular attachments, allowing for controlled positioning of the glenoid to assist in glenohumeral joint function. A thorough understanding of the complex anatomic relationships, including the various muscles, and bursa, is critical to the evaluation of patients presenting with scapulothoracic disorders. The snapping scapula syndrome is caused by either osseous lesions or scapulothoracic bursitis and can be difficult to recognize and treat. The purpose of this review is to discuss the anatomy of the scapulothoracic articulation with an emphasis on the pathology associated with snapping scapula syndrome.
Modeling Growth and Yield ofSchizolobium amazonicumunder Different Spacings
Authors: da Silva Gilson Fernandes , Gezan Salvador Alejandro , Soares Carlos Pedro Boechat , Zaneti Luciano Zumerle
Published: December 2013

This study aimed to present an approach to model the growth and yield of the speciesSchizolobium amazonicum(Paricá) based on a study of different spacings located in Pará, Brazil. Whole-stand models were employed, and two modeling strategies (Strategies A and B) were tested. Moreover, the following three scenarios were evaluated to assess the accuracy of the model in estimating total and commercial volumes at five years of age: complete absence of data (S1); available information about the variables basal area, site index, dominant height, and number of trees at two years of age (S2); and this information available at five years of age (S3). The results indicated that the 3 × 2 spacing has a higher mortality rate than normal, and, in general, greater spacing corresponds to larger diameter and average height and smaller basal area and volume per hectare. In estimating the total and commercial volumes for the three scenarios tested, Strategy B seems to be the most appropriate method to estimate the growth and yield of Paricá plantations in the study region, particularly because Strategy A showed a significant bias in its estimates.
Amplitude Modulation and Synchronization of Fractional-Order Memristor-Based Chua's Circuit
Authors: Radwan A. G. , Moaddy K. , Hashim I.
Published: November 2013

This paper presents a general synchronization technique and an amplitude modulation of chaotic generators. Conventional synchronization and antisynchronization are considered a very narrow subset from the proposed technique where the scale between the output response and the input response can be controlled via control functions and this scale may be either constant (positive, negative) or time dependent. The concept of the proposed technique is based on the nonlinear control theory and Lyapunov stability theory. The nonlinear controller is designed to ensure the stability and convergence of the proposed synchronization scheme. This technique is applied on the synchronization of two identical fractional-order Chua's circuit systems with memristor. Different examples are studied numerically with different system parameters, different orders, and with five alternative cases where the scaling functions are chosen to be positive/negative and constant/dynamic which covers all possible cases from conventional synchronization to the amplitude modulation cases to validate the proposed concept.