bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Role of Mitochondria in HIV Infection and Associated Metabolic Disorders: Focus on Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease and Lipodystrophy Syndrome
Authors: Pérez-Matute P. , Pérez-Martínez L. , Blanco J. R. , Oteo J. A.
Published: July 2013

Highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART) has considerably improved the prognosis of HIV-infected patients. However, prolonged use of HAART has been related to long-term adverse events that can compromise patient health such as HIV-associated lipodystrophy syndrome (HALS) and nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). There is consistent evidence for a central role of mitochondrial dysfunction in these pathologies. Nucleotide reverse transcriptase inhibitors (NRTIs) have been described to be mainly responsible for mitochondrial dysfunction in adipose tissue and liver although nonnucleoside transcriptase inhibitors (NNRTIs) or protease inhibitors (PIs) have also showed mitochondrial toxicity, which is a major concern for the selection and the long-term adherence to a particular therapy. Several mechanisms explain these deleterious effects of HAART on mitochondria, and evidence points to other mechanisms beyond the “Pol-γhypothesis.” HIV infection has also direct effects on mitochondria. In addition to the negative effects described for HIV itself and/or HAART on mitochondria, HIV-infected patients are more prone to develop a premature aging and, therefore, to present an increased oxidative state that could lead to the development of these metabolic disturbances observed in HIV-infected patients.
Ankylosing Spondylitis: From Cells to Genes
Authors: Zambrano-Zaragoza José Francisco , Agraz-Cibrian Juan Manuel , González-Reyes Christian , Durán-Avelar Ma. de Jesús , Vibanco-Pérez Norberto
Published: July 2013

Ankylosing spondylitis (AS) is a chronic inflammatory disease of unknown etiology, though it is considered an autoimmune disease. HLA-B27 is the risk factor most often associated with AS, and although the mechanism of involvement is unclear, the subtypes and other features of the relationship between HLA-B27 and AS have been studied for years. Additionally, the key role of IL-17 and Th17 cells in autoimmunity and inflammation suggests that the latter and the cytokines involved in their generation could play a role in the pathogenesis of this disease. Recent studies have described the sources of IL-17 and IL-23, as well as the characterization of Th17 cells in autoimmune diseases. Other cells, such as NK and regulatory T cells, have been implicated in autoimmunity and have been evaluated to ascertain their possible role in AS. Moreover, several polymorphisms, mutations and deletions in the regulatory proteins, protein-coding regions, and promoter regions of different genes involved in immune responses have been discovered and evaluated for possible genetic linkages to AS. In this review, we analyze the features of HLA-B27 and the suggested mechanisms of its involvement in AS while also focusing on the characterization of the immune response and the identification of genes associated with AS.
An Online Multidomain Validation Method for Wireless Sensor Nodes
Authors: Deng Changjian , Chen Dongyi , Zhang Heng , Hu Hongyang , Lin Jianzhong
Published: July 2013

If wireless sensor network was deployed in electric power plants to provide equipment health data, it is essential that the data should be accurate and reliable. Nodes of wireless sensor network are different than wired test units, for they need to be distributed and have some constrains. Then online validation method is important to ensure data of networks to be reliable in important and safety related fields. It has been proved that calculation (such as FFT) can be validated by two orders functional (e.g., energy) in time and frequency domain, and with doing different number of times time-frequency signal analysis, the principle of test signal measurement validation method has been introduced. And with steady state signal, metastable signal, and the nonstationary signal the different online validation method is presented. And this method has been proved to be highly reliable and less uncertain in theory and experiment.
The Initial and Neumann Boundary Value Problem for a Class Parabolic Monge-Ampère Equation
Authors: Wang Juan , Yang Jinlin , Liu Xinzhi
Published: July 2013

We consider the existence, uniqueness, and asymptotic behavior of a classical solution to the initial and Neumann boundary value problem for a class nonlinear parabolic equation of Monge-Ampère type. We show that such solution exists for all times and is unique. It converges eventually to a solution that satisfies a Neumann type problem for nonlinear elliptic equation of Monge-Ampère type.
Curcumin Suppresses Metastasis via Sp-1, FAK Inhibition, and E-Cadherin Upregulation in Colorectal Cancer
Authors: Chen Chun-Chieh , Sureshbabul Munisamy , Chen Huei-Wen , Lin Yu-Shuang , Lee Jen-Yi , Hong Qi-Sheng , Yang Ya-Chien , Yu Sung-Liang
Published: July 2013

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is a serious public health problem that results due to changes of diet and various environmental stress factors in the world. Curcumin is a traditional medicine used for treatment of a wide variety of tumors. However, antimetastasis mechanism of curcumin on CRC has not yet been completely investigated. Here, we explored the underlying molecular mechanisms of curcumin on metastasis of CRC cellsin vitroandin vivo. Curcumin significantly inhibits cell migration, invasion, and colony formationin vitroand reduces tumor growth and liver metastasisin vivo. We found that curcumin suppresses Sp-1 transcriptional activity and Sp-1 regulated genes including ADEM10, calmodulin, EPHB2, HDAC4, and SEPP1 in CRC cells. Curcumin inhibits focal adhesion kinase (FAK) phosphorylation and enhances the expressions of several extracellular matrix components which play a critical role in invasion and metastasis. Curcumin reduces CD24 expression in a dose-dependent manner in CRC cells. Moreover, E-cadherin expression is upregulated by curcumin and serves as an inhibitor of EMT. These results suggest that curcumin executes its antimetastasis function through downregulation of Sp-1, FAK, and CD24 and by promoting E-cadherin expression in CRC cells.
Research on Effects of the Thermal Stimulation by Moxibustion at Different Temperatures on Cardiac Function in Rats and on Mast Cells in the Local Site of Moxibustion
Authors: Wang Yao-Shuai , Zhang Jian-Bin , Jiang Jin-Feng , Wang Ling-Ling
Published: July 2013

Objective. To observe effects of the thermal stimulation by moxibustion at different temperatures on cardiac function in brachycardia rat model and on mast cells in the local site of moxibustion at the Ximen Acupoint and to compare the differences of the effects of moxibustion at different temperatures.Method. Establish the brachycardia rat model with propranolol and observe effects of the thermal stimulation by moxibustion at different temperatures (38°C and 46°C).Results. The thermal stimulation by moxibustion at 2 temperatures may increase HR, MAP, LVSP, and +dp/dtmax and reduce t-dp/dtmax in brachycardia rats; the 46°C moxibustion group shows greater regulating effects on cardiac function in rats than that in the 38°C moxibustion group (P<0.05). The thermal stimulation by moxibustion at 2 temperatures may promote degranulation of mast cells in the local site of moxibustion at the Ximen Acupoint; the degranulation rate in the 46°C moxibustion group is higher than that in the 38°C moxibustion group (P<0.05).Conclusion. There is a certain association between the effect on the target organ and the effect in the local site of moxibustion. The moxibustion effect possibly resulted from local mast cells degranulation and different thermoreceptors activated by the thermal stimulation at different temperatures.
Cloud-Based RF-Inspection for Ship Maintenance
Authors: Lee Jung-Min , Lee Kyung-Ho , Kim Dae-Seok
Published: July 2013

Smart work services can help to reduce work time and help to remove irrational processes in the process of product management, by providing proper information promptly. To make the smart work environment, the system has to be in a data-driven manner so that the data can keep its consistency. Preexisting data acquisition method in inspection job is almost based on documents or handover from other engineers. However, sometimes it produces inconsistent data which is different from updated information and it leads to potential risk factors. To prevent and reduce inconstant information between users and updated information, this paper suggests radio-frequency identification device (RFID) and cloud technology.
Whole Cell Biosensor UsingAnabaena torulosawith Optical Transduction for Environmental Toxicity Evaluation
Authors: Wong Ling Shing , Lee Yook Heng , Surif Salmijah
Published: July 2013

A whole cell-based biosensor usingAnabaena torulosafor the detection of heavy metals (Cu, Pb, and Cd), 2,4-dichlorophenoxyacetate (2,4-D), and chlorpyrifos was constructed. The cyanobacteria were entrapped on a cellulose membrane through filtration. Then, the membrane was dried and fixed into a cylindrical well, which was designed to be attached to an optical probe. The probe was connected to fluorescence spectrometer with optical fibre. The presence of the toxicants was indicated by the change of fluorescence emission, before and after the exposure. The linear detection ranges for Cu, Pb, and Cd were 2.5–10.0 µg/L, 0.5–5.0 µg/L, and 0.5–10.0 µg/L, respectively, while 2,4-D and chlorpyrifos shared similar linear ranges of 0.05–0.75 µg/L. The biosensor showed good sensitivity with the lowest limits of detection (LLD) for Cu, Pb, Cd, 2,4-D and chlorpyrifos determined at 1.195 µg/L, 0.100 µg/L, 0.027 µg/L, 0.025 µg/L, and 0.025 µg/L, respectively. The overall reproducibility of the biosensor (n=3) was <±6.35%. The biosensor had been tested with different combinations of toxicants, with the results showing predominantly antagonistic responses. The results confirmed that the biosensor constructed in this report is suitable to be used in quantitative and qualitative detections of heavy metals and pesticides.
Practical Velocity Tracking Control of a Parallel Robot Based on Fuzzy Adaptive Algorithm
Authors: Zhou Zude , Meng Wei , Ai Qingsong , Liu Quan , Wu Xiang
Published: July 2013

Due to the advantages of its compact structure and high operation accuracy, the six degrees of freedom (6-DOF) parallel platform has been widely used as a carrier of medical rehabilitation devices. Fuzzy adaptive algorithm does not depend on the mathematical model of controlled object, which possesses good nonlinear characteristics. Those entire features make it an effective method to control such complex and coupling platforms. To facilitate the application of robotics in lower limb rehabilitation fields, a robotic system in practical environment was established based on kinematics modeling of the 6-DOF Stewart-based platform. In order to improve the velocity tracking accuracy, this paper proposed a closed-loop control strategy based on fuzzy adaptive algorithm. The velocity feedback information was utilized to modify the PID parameters adaptively in realtime through fuzzy inference units. Several experiments in practical environment were conducted, and the results demonstrated that the proposed algorithm could effectively reduce the speed jitter, enhance the position and velocity tracking precision of the robot, and the reliability and robustness of the system could also be ensured.
Synthesized Cluster Head Selection and Routing for Two Tier Wireless Sensor Network
Authors: Rana Keyur , Zaveri Mukesh
Published: July 2013

Large scale sensor networks can be efficiently managed by dividing them into several clusters. With the help of cluster heads, each cluster communicates using some routing schedule. It is essential to rotate the role of cluster heads in a cluster to distribute energy consumption if we do not have dedicated high energy cluster heads. Usually routing and cluster head selection for such networks have been separately solved. If cluster heads are selected with the consideration of routing and routing schedule is prepared with the consideration of selected cluster heads, it can help each other. We have proposed an integrated approach of cluster head selection and routing in two tier wireless sensor network (WSN) using Genetic Algorithm based cluster head selection with A-Star algorithm based routing method to extend life of WSN. This approach can lead to significant improvements in the network lifetime over other techniques.
Estimation of Wellbore and Formation Temperatures during the Drilling Process under Lost Circulation Conditions
Authors: Yang Mou , Meng Yingfeng , Li Gao , Li Yongjie , Chen Ying , Zhao Xiangyang , Li Hongtao
Published: July 2013

Significant change of wellbore and surrounding formation temperatures during the whole drilling process for oil and gas resources often leads by annulus fluid fluxes into formation and may pose a threat to operational security of drilling and completion process. Based on energy exchange mechanisms of wellbore and formation systems during circulation and shut-in stages under lost circulation conditions, a set of partial differential equations were developed to account for the transient heat exchange process between wellbore and formation. A finite difference method was used to solve the transient heat transfer models, which enables the wellbore and formation temperature profiles to be accurately predicted. Moreover, heat exchange generated by heat convection due to circulation losses to the rock surrounding a well was also considered in the mathematical model. The results indicated that the lost circulation zone and the casing programme had significant effects on the temperature distributions of wellbore and formation. The disturbance distance of formation temperature was influenced by circulation and shut-in stages. A comparative perfection theoretical basis for temperature distribution of wellbore-formation system in a deep well drilling was developed in presence of lost circulation.
Nonfragile Guaranteed Cost Control and Optimization for Interconnected Systems of Neutral Type
Authors: Hu Heli , Zhao Dan , Zhang Qingling
Published: July 2013

The design and optimization problems of the nonfragile guaranteed cost control are investigated for a class of interconnected systems of neutral type. A novel scheme, viewing the interconnections with time-varying delays as effective information but not disturbances, is developed to decrease the conservatism. Many techniques on decomposing and magnifying the matrices are utilized to obtain the guaranteed cost of the considered system. Also, an algorithm is proposed to solve the nonlinear problem of the interconnected matrices. Based on this algorithm, the minimization of the guaranteed cost of the considered system is obtained by optimization. Further, the state feedback control is extended to the case in which the underlying system is dependent on uncertain parameters. Finally, two numerical examples are given to illustrate the proposed method, and some comparisons are made to show the advantages of the schemes of dealing with the interconnections.
Mucoepidermoid Carcinoma in a Minor Salivary Gland in a Child
Authors: Sengul Fatih , Simsek Sera , Cakur Binali
Published: July 2013

Mucoepidermoid carcinoma (MEC), one of the most common salivary gland malignancies, is rare in children. MEC mainly occurs in the parotid gland, along with minor glands being the second common site, particularly in palate. Clinical, histological, and radiological findings of palatal MEC in a 12-year-old girl are presented with three-year follow-up. Pathologic lesions must be considered in differential diagnoses of intraoral asymptomatic lesions, and their detailed inspection should be taken into consideration.
Multidimensional Fixed-Point Theorems in Partially Ordered Complete Partial Metric Spaces under ()-Contractivity Conditions
Authors: Roldán A. , Martínez-Moreno J. , Roldán C. , Karapınar E.
Published: July 2013

We study the existence and uniqueness of coincidence point for nonlinear mappings of any number of arguments under a weak ()-contractivity condition in partial metric spaces. The results we obtain generalize, extend, and unify several classical and very recent related results in the literature in metric spaces (see Aydi et al. (2011), Berinde and Borcut (2011), Gnana Bhaskar and Lakshmikantham (2006), Berzig and Samet (2012), Borcut and Berinde (2012), Choudhury et al. (2011), Karapınar and Luong (2012), Lakshmikantham and Ćirić (2009), Luong and Thuan (2011), and Roldán et al. (2012)) and in partial metric spaces (see Shatanawi et al. (2012)).
Greenhouse Modeling Using Continuous Timed Petri Nets
Authors: Tovany José Luis , Ross-León Roberto , Ruiz-León Javier , Ramírez-Treviño Antonio , Begovich Ofelia
Published: July 2013

This paper presents a continuous timed Petri nets (ContPNs) based greenhouse modeling methodology. The presented methodology is based on the definition of elementary ContPN modules which are designed to capture the components of a general energy and mass balance differential equation, like parts that are reducing or increasing variables, such as heat, CO2concentration, and humidity. The semantics of ContPN is also extended in order to deal with variables depending on external greenhouse variables, such as solar radiation. Each external variable is represented by a place whose marking depends on ana prioriknown function, for instance, the solar radiation function of the greenhouse site, which can be obtained statistically. The modeling methodology is illustrated with a greenhouse modeling example.
Synthesis and Characterization of All Renewable Resources Based Branched Polyester: Poly(2,5-furandicarboxylic acid-co-glycerol)
Authors: Amarasekara Ananda S. , Razzaq Ashfaqur , Bonham Paul
Published: July 2013

Condensation of all renewable resources based monomers 2,5-furandicarboxylic acid and glycerol in the presence of 2 mol% Sb2O3 catalyst at 210°C gives a branched polyester resin in 70% yield. This resin was characterized by elemental analysis, 1H, 13C NMR, FT-IR, and TGA-DTG.
Risk of Anaemia in Population of Healthy Young People Inhabiting a Region in Central Europe
Authors: Szczuko Małgorzata , Gutowska Izabela , Seidler Teresa , Mierzwa Mariusz , Stachowska Ewa , Chlubek Dariusz
Published: July 2013

It is quite unbelievable but significant percentage of young healthy women is at risk of anaemia despite proper nutritional state. In this study we decided to determine the lack or excess of which nutrients in a diet can lead to any effects. The major cause of anaemia is not, as in many studies on nutritional status, the deficiency in iron in a diet. Iron intake in women with anaemia exceeded AI (Adequate Intake) level. 120 people took part in the study. Average HGB concentration in female group amounted to 12.45 g/dL and in male group to 14.35 g/dL. Anaemia was determined in 29% women and 4.2% men. In group of women with anaemia a statistically higher intake of SFA, cholesterol, and sucrose and lower intake of pyridoxine, folacin, niacin, and vitamin E, Mn, Cu, Zn, Fe, and Mg were determined. In a group of men with low haemoglobin concentration a statistically higher intake of sucrose but lower intake of fat, especially SFA and MUFA, vitamin C and zinc were observed. Therefore, together with anaemia in the group of women there are coexisting deficiencies in other nutrients, as compared to the group of men. Prevention in both groups should include various supplements.
An In Vivo and In Vitro Evaluation of the Mutual Interactions between the Lung and the Large Intestine
Authors: Yin Lei-Miao , Zhang Guang-Quan , Yan Xing-Ke , Wang Yu , Xu Yu-Dong , Yang Yong-Qing
Published: July 2013

One of the most important theories of the traditional Chinese medicine is the exterior-interior relationship between the lung and the large intestine; so far, little direct experimental evidence has been reported to support such relationship. Here we for the first time investigated the mutual interactions between the lung and the large intestine by examining the relevancies between the pulmonary functions and the rectal resting pressure in the rat models of asthma and constipation. We also evaluated the effects of the lung homogenate and the large intestine homogenate on the isolated large intestine muscle strip and the isolated tracheal spiral, respectively. Our results showed that the pulmonary resistance and pulmonary compliance were closely related to the rectal resting pressure in the asthmatic rat model, while the rectal resting pressure was much correlated with the pulmonary resistance in the rat model of constipation. Moreover, it was shown that the lung homogenate could specifically contract the isolated large intestine muscle strip. Overall, this study provided new lines of evidence for the theory and highlighted the potential application in the treatment of the corresponding diseases.
Multiple Molecular and Cellular Mechanisms of Action of Lycopene in Cancer Inhibition
Authors: Trejo-Solís Cristina , Pedraza-Chaverrí Jose , Torres-Ramos Mónica , Jiménez-Farfán Dolores , Cruz Salgado Arturo , Serrano-García Norma , Osorio-Rico Laura , Sotelo Julio
Published: July 2013

Epidemiological studies suggest that including fruits, vegetables, and whole grains in regular dietary intake might prevent and reverse cellular carcinogenesis, reducing the incidence of primary tumours. Bioactive components present in food can simultaneously modulate more than one carcinogenic process, including cancer metabolism, hormonal balance, transcriptional activity, cell-cycle control, apoptosis, inflammation, angiogenesis and metastasis. Some studies have shown an inverse correlation between a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and carotenoids and a low incidence of different types of cancer. Lycopene, the predominant carotenoid found in tomatoes, exhibits a high antioxidant capacity and has been shown to prevent cancer, as evidenced by clinical trials and studies in cell culture and animal models.In vitrostudies have shown that lycopene treatment can selectively arrest cell growth and induce apoptosis in cancer cells without affecting normal cells.In vivostudies have revealed that lycopene treatment inhibits tumour growth in the liver, lung, prostate, breast, and colon. Clinical studies have shown that lycopene protects against prostate cancer. One of the main challenges in cancer prevention is the integration of new molecular findings into clinical practice. Thus, the identification of molecular biomarkers associated with lycopene levels is essential for improving our understanding of the mechanisms underlying its antineoplastic activity.
Aspergillus-Associated Airway Disease, Inflammation, and the Innate Immune Response
Authors: Chotirmall Sanjay H. , Al-Alawi Mazen , Mirkovic Bojana , Lavelle Gillian , Logan P. Mark , Greene Catherine M. , McElvaney Noel G.
Published: July 2013

Aspergillusmoulds exist ubiquitously as spores that are inhaled in large numbers daily. Whilst most are removed by anatomical barriers, disease may occur in certain circumstances. Depending on the underlying state of the human immune system, clinical consequences can ensue ranging from an excessive immune response during allergic bronchopulmonary aspergillosis to the formation of an aspergilloma in the immunocompetent state. The severest infections occur in those who are immunocompromised where invasive pulmonary aspergillosis results in high mortality rates. The diagnosis ofAspergillus-associated pulmonary disease is based on clinical, radiological, and immunological testing. An understanding of the innate and inflammatory consequences of exposure toAspergillusspecies is critical in accounting for disease manifestations and preventing sequelae. The major components of the innate immune system involved in recognition and removal of the fungus include phagocytosis, antimicrobial peptide production, and recognition by pattern recognition receptors. The cytokine response is also critical facilitating cell-to-cell communication and promoting the initiation, maintenance, and resolution of the host response. In the following review, we discuss the above areas with a focus on the innate and inflammatory response to airwayAspergillusexposure and how these responses may be modulated for therapeutic benefit.
Optimal Waveform Selection for Robust Target Tracking
Authors: Xin Fengming , Wang Jinkuan , Zhao Qiang , Wang Yuhuan
Published: July 2013

This paper proposes a new optimal waveform selection algorithm for intelligent target tracking. In radar systems, optimal waveform is inspired by the improvements in performance. When the target is intelligent and tries to escape from detection, it will maximize the estimation error to degrade the target tracking performance. So the conventional tracking algorithms are not suitable for this situation. In this paper, we assume a one-dimension target model which will try to escape the radar detection to degrade the tracking performance. A new optimal waveform selection algorithm is proposed based on game theory for robust tracking. The robust received filter is first reviewed according to zero-sum game with the derivation of estimated state error covariance. The parameters for transmitted waveform that need to be optimized are found to be related to the robust filter. The optimal parameters for transmitted waveform are finally found by the minimization of the trace of the estimated state error covariance. Simulation results show the effectiveness of this new proposed algorithm for optimal waveform selection for intelligent target tracking.
Reducing Chaos and Bifurcations in Newton-Type Methods
Authors: Amat S. , Busquier S. , Magreñán Á. A.
Published: July 2013

We study the dynamics of some Newton-type iterative methods when they are applied of polynomials degrees two and three. The methods are free of high-order derivatives which are the main limitation of the classical high-order iterative schemes. The iterative schemes consist of several steps of damped Newton's method with the same derivative. We introduce a damping factor in order to reduce thebadzones of convergence. The conclusion is that the damped schemes become real alternative to the classical Newton-type method since both chaos and bifurcations of the original schemes are reduced. Therefore, the new schemes can be utilized to obtain good starting points for the original schemes.
A Sum Operator Method for the Existence and Uniqueness of Positive Solutions to a System of Nonlinear Fractional Integral Equations
Authors: Wu Jing , Wu Tunhua
Published: July 2013

This paper is concerned with the existence and uniqueness of positive solutions for a Volterra nonlinear fractional system of integral equations. Our analysis relies on a fixed point theorem of a sum operator. The conditions for the existence and uniqueness of a positive solution to the system are established. Moreover, an iterative scheme is constructed for approximating the solution. The case of quadratic system of fractional integral equations is also considered.
Extracellular Signal-Regulated Kinase Is a Direct Target of the Anti-Inflammatory Compound Amentoflavone Derived fromTorreya nucifera
Authors: Oh Jueun , Rho Ho Sik , Yang Yanyan , Yoon Ju Young , Lee Jongsung , Hong Yong Deog , Kim Hyeon Chung , Choi Sun Shim , Kim Tae Woong , Shin Song Seok , Cho Jae Youl
Published: July 2013

Amentoflavone is a biflavonoid compound with antioxidant, anticancer, antibacterial, antiviral, anti-inflammatory, and UV-blocking activities that can be isolated fromTorreya nucifera, Biophytum sensitivum, andSelaginella tamariscina. In this study, the molecular mechanism underlying amentoflavone’s anti-inflammatory activity was investigated. Amentoflavone dose dependently suppressed the production of nitric oxide (NO) and prostaglandin E2(PGE2) in RAW264.7 cells stimulated with the TLR4 ligand lipopolysaccharide (LPS; derived from Gram-negative bacteria). Amentoflavone suppressed the nuclear translocation of c-Fos, a subunit of activator protein (AP)-1, at 60 min after LPS stimulation and inhibited the activity of purified and immunoprecipitated extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK), which mediates c-Fos translocation. In agreement with these results, amentoflavone also suppressed the formation of a molecular complex including ERK and c-Fos. Therefore, our data strongly suggest that amentoflavone’s immunopharmacological activities are due to its direct effect on ERK.
Identifying Optimal Spatial Groups for Maximum Coverage in Ubiquitous Sensor Network by Using Clustering Algorithms
Authors: Fong Simon , Ip Weng Fai , Liu Elaine , Cho Kyungeun
Published: July 2013

Ubiquitous sensor network has a history of applications varying from monitoring troop movement during battles in WWII to measuring traffic flows on modern highways. In particular, there lies a computational challenge in how these data can be efficiently processed for real-time intelligence. Given the data collected from ubiquitous sensor networks that have different densities distributed over a large geographical area, one can see how separate groups could be formed over them in order to maximize the total coverage by these groups. The applications could be either destructive or constructive in nature; for example, a jet fighter pilot needs to make a real-time critical decision at a split of second to locate several separate targets to hit (assuming limited weapon payloads) in order to cause maximum damage, when it flies over an enemy terrain; a town planner is considering where to station certain resources (sites for schools, hospitals, security patrol route planning, airborne food ration drops for humanitarian aid, etc.) for maximum effect, given a vast area of different densities for benevolent purposes. This paper explores this problem via optimal “spatial groups” clustering. Simulation experiments by using clustering algorithms and linear programming are to be conducted, for evaluating their effectiveness comparatively.
Bees' Honey Protects the Liver of Male Rats against Melamine Toxicity
Authors: El Rabey Haddad A. , Al-Seeni Madeha N. , Al-Solamy Suad M.
Published: July 2013

The protective effect of natural bees' honey to the liver of male albino rats against melamine toxicity was studied. Melamine supplementation at a dose of 20000 ppm in the diet for 28 days induced adverse effects on the liver, decreased serum total protein and increased liver enzyme: alanine aminotransferase, aspartate aminotransferase, and alkaline phosphatase. Histological changes of the melamine supplemented group showed necrosis in the hepatic tissues around the central veins of the liver and precipitation of melamine crystals. Treating the male albino rats (that were presupplemented regularly with 20000 ppm melamine) with natural bees' honey at a dose of 2.5 g/kg body weight for 28 days improved both liver functions and increased serum protein. In addition, a positive impact on the shape of the cells after treatment with honey compared to the positive melamine supplemented group was observed. In conclusion, the results of this study revealed that the use of natural bees' honey has the ability to protect the liver of rats against the toxic effects of melamine.
Reproductive Biology and Fishery-Related Characteristics of the Malabar Grouper (Epinephelus malabaricus) Caught in the Coastal Waters of Mafia Island, Tanzania
Authors: Gaspare Lydia , Bryceson Ian
Published: July 2013

The reproductive biology and fishery-related characteristics of the Malabar grouper (Epinephelus malabaricus) (Bloch and Schneider, 1801) specimens were investigated. The size of females ranged from 25 to 113 cm total length (LT), with 50% sexually mature at 79 cmLT, and the males (97 cm to 114 cmLT) were larger than the females. Due to the sex ratios and size distribution of the sample, it appeared that the groupers change sex between 97 and 113 cmLT. However, the gonadal histology data lacked specimens in the transitional stage. The spawning peak occurred in November, as defined by the presence of ripe females, and the spawning season lasted from September to February. The size of the fish correlated positively with the water depth at capture, which is also related to oxygen levels in deep water being more favourable for larger fish. Larger specimens (>100 cmLT) were targeted by fishers between December and February, when the northeast monsoon coincides with calmer weather and the spawning season. Fishers were interviewed, and observations were made on fishing gear, vessels, and grounds. There was no indication that small-scale fishers targeted spawning aggregations; therefore, fisheries independent research is recommended in order to verify the time, location, and behaviour of the spawning of Malabar groupers for management and conservation purposes.
Antioxidant Effects of Quercetin and Naringenin Are Associated with Impaired Neutrophil Microbicidal Activity
Authors: Nishimura Francielli de Cássia Yukari , de Almeida Ana Carolina , Ratti Bianca Altrão , Ueda-Nakamura Tânia , Nakamura Celso Vataru , Ximenes Valdecir Farias , Silva Sueli de Oliveira
Published: July 2013

Naringenin and quercetin are considered antioxidant compounds with promising activity against oxidative damage in human cells. However, no reports have described their effects on reactive oxygen species (ROS) production by phagocytes during microbicidal activity. Thus, the present study evaluated the effects of naringenin and quercetin on ROS production, specifically hypochlorous acid (HOCl), and their involvement in the microbicidal activity of neutrophils. Naringenin and quercetin inhibited HOCl production through different systems, but this inhibition was more pronounced for quercetin, even in the cell-free systems. With regard to the microbicidal activity of neutrophils, both naringenin and quercetin completely inhibited the killing ofStaphylococcus aureus. Altogether, these data indicate that the decrease in the oxidant activity of neutrophils induced by these compounds directly impaired the microbicidal activity of neutrophils. Naringenin and quercetin exerted their effects by controlling the effector mechanisms of ROS production, with both positive and negative effects of these antioxidant agents in oxidative stress conditions and on ROS in the microbicidal activity of phagocytes. The present results challenge the traditional view of antioxidants as improvers of pathological conditions.
Clinical Characteristics and Course of Patients Entering Cardiac Rehabilitation with Chronic Kidney Disease: Data from the Italian Survey on Cardiac Rehabilitation
Authors: Giallauria Francesco , Fattirolli Francesco , Tramarin Roberto , Ambrosetti Marco , Griffo Raffaele , Riccio Carmine , Vigorito Carlo
Published: July 2013

This survey shows the clinical risk profile, resource utilization, pharmacologic treatment, and course of cardiac rehabilitation (CR) programs in patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD). Data from 165 CR units in Italy were collected online from January 28 to February 10, 2008. The study cohort consisted of 2281 patients: 200 CKD patients and 2081 non-CKD patients. CKD patients were older and showed more comorbidity and complications during CR, a more complex clinical course and interventions with less functional evaluation, and a different pattern of drug therapy at hospital discharge. CKD patients had higher mortality during CR programs due to heart failure, respiratory insufficiency, and cognitive impairment. These findings suggest that patients with CKD should not be denied access to CR, provided careful attention to clinical status, possible complications, optimization of drug therapy, and close followup.
Simultaneous Use of MutS and RecA for Suppression of Nonspecific Amplification during PCR
Authors: Fukui Kenji , Kuramitsu Seiki
Published: July 2013

Thermus thermophilusMutS, a thermostable mismatch-recognizing protein, is utilized in PCR to suppress nonspecific amplification by preventing synthesis from mismatched primers.T. thermophilusRecA also decreases nonspecific amplification by promoting proper hybridization between the primer and template. We observed that MutS and RecA function under the same reaction conditions and that MutS and RecA do not preclude each other. Furthermore, there were some DNA sequences for which only one of the 2 proteins effectively suppressed nonspecific amplification. The simultaneous use of MutS and RecA is a more attractive error-suppressing technique than the use of either of the 2 proteins alone.
Remarks on Ambient Air Pollution and Health Outcomes
Authors: Szyszkowicz Mieczysław
Published: July 2013

Background. Ambient air pollution is a recognized risk factor for multiple health conditions. For some health problems, the impact of air pollution is particularly evident to the patients in a specific age range. Nonsimultaneous exposures to two or more air pollutants may have different relationships with health outcomes than do simultaneous exposures. Methods. Case-crossover technique was used to analyze data on emergency department (ED) visits for ischemic heart disease (IHD), epistaxis, and upper respiratory infection (URI). Conditional logistic regression models were used to estimate odds ratios and their 95% confidence intervals corresponding to an increase in an interquartile range of air pollutant concentrations. Results. The results for IHD show that for older patients (age 60+ years), the association between sulphur dioxide (SO2) exposure and IHD is weak. For ED visits for epistaxis (O3 and SO2 in one model) and URI (O3 and NO2 in one model), air pollutants lagged differently in the common model indicated significant statistical associations but not for common lags. Conclusion. The study findings, based on analyzed examples, suggest that (i) IHD cases in older age are less related to air pollution and (ii) air pollutants may affect some health conditions by a specific sequence of exposure occurrences.
Control of Chaos in Rate-Dependent Friction-Induced Vibration Using Adaptive Sliding Mode Control and Impulse Damper
Authors: Maani Miandoab Ehsan , Yousefi-Koma Aghil , Hashemnia Saeed
Published: July 2013

Two different control methods, namely, adaptive sliding mode control and impulse damper, are used to control the chaotic vibration of a block on a belt system due to the rate-dependent friction. In the first method, using the sliding mode control technique and based on the Lyapunov stability theory, a sliding surface is determined, and an adaptive control law is established which stabilizes the chaotic response of the system. In the second control method, the vibration of this system is controlled by an impulse damper. In this method, an impulsive force is applied to the system by expanding and contracting the PZT stack according to efficient control law. Numerical simulations demonstrate the effectiveness of both methods in controlling the chaotic vibration of the system. It is shown that the settling time of the controlled system using impulse damper is less than that one controlled by adaptive sliding mode control; however, it needs more control effort.
Effect of Different Calcination Temperatures on the Structural and Photocatalytic Performance of Bi-TiO2/SBA-15
Authors: Ma Jing , Chu Jia , Qiang Liangsheng , Xue Juanqin
Published: July 2013

The new novel material Bi-TiO2/SBA-15 was synthesized by an easy wet impregnation method. A combination of XRD, XPS, Raman, N2adsorption-desorption isotherm measurement, TEM, and solid state UV-Vis spectroscopy has been used to characterize the Bi-TiO2/SBA-15 material. It was found that SBA-15 retained the ordered hexagonal mesostructure after incorporation of TiO2and Bi. The photodecomposition of rhodamine B (RhB) in aqueous medium was selected to evaluate the photocatalytic performance of Bi-TiO2/SBA-15 under visible light irradiation (λ≥420 nm). The experiment results indicated that Bi-TiO2/SBA-15 exhibited higher photocatalytic activities than pure TiO2and Bi2O3. The influences of calcination temperature were studied. It strongly influenced the activity of the samples. The sample calcined at 550°C shows the highest photocatalytic activity in the decomposition of RhB under visible light. The catalyst preserved almost its initial photocatalytic activity after six reuses.
Minimum-Energy Bivariate Wavelet Frame with Arbitrary Dilation Matrix
Authors: Zhu Fengjuan , Li Qiufu , Huang Yongdong
Published: July 2013

In order to characterize the bivariate signals, minimum-energy bivariate wavelet frames with arbitrary dilation matrix are studied, which are based on superiority of the minimum-energy frame and the significant properties of bivariate wavelet. Firstly, the concept of minimum-energy bivariate wavelet frame is defined, and its equivalent characterizations and a necessary condition are presented. Secondly, based on polyphase form of symbol functions of scaling function and wavelet function, two sufficient conditions and an explicit constructed method are given. Finally, the decomposition algorithm, reconstruction algorithm, and numerical examples are designed.
Characterization of Dispersive Fluxes in Mesoscale Models Using LES of Flow over an Array of Cubes
Authors: Rasheed Adil , Robinson Darren
Published: July 2013

Field studies have shown that local climate is strongly influenced by urban structures. This influences both energy consumption and the pedestrian comfort. It is thus useful to be able to simulate the urban environment to take these effects into account in building and urban design. But for computational reasons, conventional computational fluid dynamics (CFD) codes cannot be used directly on a grid fine enough to resolve all scales found in a city. For this, we use mesoscale models, variants of CFD codes in which the 3D conservation equations are solved on grids having a resolution of a few kilometers. At this resolution, the effects of subgrid scales need implicit representations. In other words, phenomena such as momentum and energy exchanges averaged over the mesoscale grid contribute necessary sources/sinks to the corresponding equations. Such spatial averaging results in additional terms called dispersive fluxes. Until now these fluxes have been ignored. To better understand these fluxes, we have conducted large eddy simulations (LESs) over an array of cubes for different inter-cube spacings. The study shows that these fluxes are as important as the turbulent fluxes and exhibit trends which are related to the eddy formations inside the canopies.
Peanut Allergy, Allergen Composition, and Methods of Reducing Allergenicity: A Review
Authors: Zhou Yang , Wang Jin-shui , Yang Xiao-jia , Lin Dan-hua , Gao Yun-fang , Su Yin-jie , Yang Sen , Zhang Yan-jie , Zheng Jing-jing
Published: July 2013

Peanut allergy affects 1-2% of the world's population. It is dangerous, and usually lifelong, and it greatly decreases the life quality of peanut-allergic individuals and their families. In a word, peanut allergy has become a major health concern worldwide. Thirteen peanut allergens are identified, and they are briefly introduced in this paper. Although there is no feasible solution to peanut allergy at present, many methods have shown great promise. This paper reviews methods of reducing peanut allergenicity, including physical methods (heat and pressure, PUV), chemical methods (tannic acid and magnetic beads), and biological methods (conventional breeding, irradiation breeding, genetic engineering, enzymatic treatment, and fermentation).
Amniocentesis in HIV Pregnant Women: 16 Years of Experience
Authors: Simões Mafalda , Marques Catarina , Gonçalves Ana , Pereira Ana Paula , Correia Joaquim , Castela João , Guerreiro Cristina
Published: July 2013

The iatrogenic risk of HIV vertical transmission, calculated in initial epidemiologic studies, seemed to counterindicate invasive prenatal diagnosis (PND) procedures. The implementation of highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART) represented a turning point in PND management, owing to a rapid and effective reduction of maternal viral load (VL). In the present study, we identified cases of vertical transmission in HIV-infected pregnant women who did amniocentesis in the second trimester of pregnancy (), from 1996 to 2011. We divided our sample into Group A—women under HAART when submitted to amniocentesis () and Group B—women without antiretroviral therapy before amniocentesis (). We had 1 case of vertical transmission in Group B. Preconceptional or early first trimester HIV serology is essential to avoid performing an amniocentesis without antiretroviral therapy or viral suppression. When there is an indication for amniocentesis in an HIV-infected pregnant woman, it should be done if the patient is on HAART and, if possible, when VL is undetectable. Nowadays, with combined first trimester screening test to select pregnancies with high risk of aneuploidies, advanced maternal age is a less frequent indication to perform PND invasive procedures, representing an outstanding gain in prenatal diagnosis of this population.
MIMO Exploitation of 3D Multipath Statistics in a Heterogeneous LTE-Advanced Network
Authors: Mansor Zuhanis , Mellios Evangelos , Hilton Geoffrey , McGeehan Joe , Nix Andrew
Published: July 2013

This paper analyses the impact of 3D multipath in an LTE-Advanced heterogeneous network. The impact of the base station array configuration is considered in both the azimuth and elevation planes. Spatial and temporal multipath statistics are generated for example macro- and picocellular base stations, and these are combined with appropriately oriented complex polarimetric antenna patterns. The resulting wideband channels are then passed to an LTE-Advanced physical layer simulator. The optimal spatial multiplexing mode is determined by computing the throughput using the received bit mutual information rate for all modulation and coding schemes. The fastest link speed for each user is identified given a packet error rate threshold of 10%. Results show that RMS angle spread statistics and the base station MIMO array configuration strongly influence user performance in an LTE-A network. The deployment of macrocellular vertical arrays is shown to significantly degrade network performance. In contrast, the elevation angle spread is found to be far greater in picocells, and this allows vertical arrays to be applied to produce compact high performance picobase stations.
Biological Treatments: New Weapons in the Management of Monogenic Autoinflammatory Disorders
Authors: Vitale Antonio , Rigante Donato , Lucherini Orso Maria , Caso Francesco , Muscari Isabella , Magnotti Flora , Brizi Maria Giuseppina , Guerrini Susanna , Patti Maria , Punzi Leonardo , Galeazzi Mauro , Cantarini Luca
Published: July 2013

Treatment of monogenic autoinflammatory disorders, an expanding group of hereditary diseases characterized by apparently unprovoked recurrent episodes of inflammation, without high-titre autoantibodies or antigen-specific T cells, has been revolutionized by the discovery that several of these conditions are caused by mutations in proteins involved in the mechanisms of innate immune response, including components of the inflammasome, cytokine receptors, receptor antagonists, and oversecretion of a network of proinflammatory molecules. Aim of this review is to synthesize the current experience and the most recent evidences about the therapeutic approach with biologic drugs in pediatric and adult patients with monogenic autoinflammatory disorders.
Bioinformatics Resources and Tools for Conformational B-Cell Epitope Prediction
Authors: Sun Pingping , Ju Haixu , Liu Zhenbang , Ning Qiao , Zhang Jian , Zhao Xiaowei , Huang Yanxin , Ma Zhiqiang , Li Yuxin
Published: July 2013

Identification of epitopes which invoke strong humoral responses is an essential issue in the field of immunology. Localizing epitopes by experimental methods is expensive in terms of time, cost, and effort; therefore, computational methods feature for its low cost and high speed was employed to predict B-cell epitopes. In this paper, we review the recent advance of bioinformatics resources and tools in conformational B-cell epitope prediction, including databases, algorithms, web servers, and their applications in solving problems in related areas. To stimulate the development of better tools, some promising directions are also extensively discussed.