bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
AMPLIFICATION WITHOUT INVERSION IN SEMICONDUCTOR QUANTUM DOT
Authors: HAJIBADALI A. , ABBASIAN K. , ROSTAMI A.
Published: May 2011

In this paper, we have realized amplification without inversion (AWI) in quantum dot (QD). A Y-type four-level system of InxGa1-xN quantum dot has been obtained and investigated for AWI. It has been shown that, with proper setting of control fields' amplitude, we can obtain reasonable gain. With proper setting of phase difference of control fields and probe field, we can obtain considerable gain in resonant wavelength. We have designed this system by solving the Schrödinger–Poisson equations for InxGa1-xN quantum dot in GaN substrate, self-consistently.
SYNTHESIS AND CHARACTERIZATION OF CHEMICALLY GROWN ULTRALONG HEXAGONAL ZnO NANOTUBES
Authors: SAMANTA PIJUS KANTI , BASAK SHIBABRATA , CHAUDHURI PARTHA ROY
Published: May 2011

Ultralong zinc oxide nanotubes have been synthesized on glass substrate by a simple chemical bath deposition. The nanotubes are hexagonal with the core diameter about ~200 nm. The length of the nanotubes was about 10 μm. No specific alignment of the nanotubes on the glass substrate was observed. The morphology of the nanostructures depends highly on the concentration of zinc acetate solution, duration of mechanical stirring, and temperature during synthesis. Depending upon these experimental conditions nanorods and nanotubes were observed. The material was structurally characterized using grazing incidence X-ray diffraction, showing hexagonal unit cell structure. Transmission electron microscopy results revealed that the walls of the nanotubes are hexagonal. Room temperature photoluminescence spectrum shows a strong violet emission at ~420 nm from the ZnO nanotubes due to transition between zinc interstitial and zinc vacancy level. These results will be very useful in optoelectronic and nanophotonic device applications.
A STUDY ON DIVERSE NANOSTRUCTURE FOR IMPLEMENTING LOGIC GATE DESIGN FOR QCA
Authors: DAS KUNAL , DE DEBASHIS
Published: May 2011

Quantum dot cellular automata (QCA) define the nanostructure of basic computer. It is used as an alternative for designing high-speed computer over CMOS technology. The basic logic in QCA is the logic state that does not measure with voltage level; rather it measures the polarity of electrons in cell. The Majority Voter (MV) is first introduced to design the logic circuits, but only using MV, designing complex logic circuit became inefficient. Many proposals had been made for designing QCA logic gate. In this paper we focus on different useful nanostructures, reduced size and efficient design of Nand–Nor Inverter (NNI), 3 × 3 tile structures for implementing NNI, And–Or Logic, and AOI also present logic synthesis using proposed gates. We analyze QCA defect on proposed gates and describe its permissible defect tolerance. In QCA we describe application for implementing standard functions using proposed structures in this paper and describe effective area of proposed structures.
MICROSTRUCTURAL, MAGNETIC, AND ELECTRICAL PROPERTIES OF Co–Zn FERRITES NANOPARTICLES PREPARED BY SOL–GEL METHOD
Authors: MANDAL P. R. , SAHU S. , NATH T. K.
Published: May 2011

The mixed ferrite nanometric Co – Zn ferrites [ Co 1-x Zn x Fe 2 O 4] with x = 0, x = 0.35, x = 0.5, x = 0.65, and x = 1 having particle size down to ~20 nm, synthesized through chemical sol–gel route have been found to have higher Curie temperature and higher resistivity as compared to the ones derived from conventional processes. Studies were made to estimate the effect of Co concentration (x) on these mixed ferrite nanometric Co – Zn ferrites having a AB2O4 -type cubic inverse spinel structure. Investigation of magnetic properties of all Co – Zn nanoferrites with varying Co content has been made using a VSM at room temperature. The saturation magnetization and coercive field have been observed to be highest for x = 0.35 and x = 0, respectively. The magneto-impedance characteristics and the complex impedance spectroscopy [Z(ω,T) = Z′+iZ″] have also been investigated in detail for all the samples at different frequencies.
ROLE OF MICROSTRUCTURE AND DOMAIN STRUCTURE ON THE SOFT MAGNETIC PROPERTIES OF MAGNETIC FIELD ANNEALED Fe89-xZr11Bx ALLOYS
Authors: MISHRA DEBABRATA , PERUMAL A. , SRINIVASAN A.
Published: May 2011

We report the evolution of microstructure, domain structure, and soft magnetic properties of amorphous and nanocrystalline Fe 89-x Zr 11 B x(x = 0 - 10) alloys. High-resolution electron microscopy observations reveal that the annealed alloys exhibit a two-phase microstructure. Addition of B enhances the ferromagnetic properties of Fe – Zr amorphous phase in the two-phase structured microstructure, resulting in good soft magnetic properties. Large-sized domains with smooth domain walls are observed in the alloys annealed below 873 K, which exhibit excellent magnetic softness. On the other hand, in the alloys annealed above 873 K, small-sized domains with irregular domain walls and domain wall pinning by Fe – Zr compound are seen. The soft magnetic properties in Fe – Zr – B alloys not only depend on mean grain size, but also on the strength of the intergranular magnetic coupling and structural inhomogeneities.
MOLECULAR DYNAMICS SIMULATIONS OF CARBON NANOTUBE-BASED OSCILLATORS HAVING TOPOLOGICAL DEFECTS
Authors: PRASAD MATUKUMILLI. V. D. , BHATTACHARYA BAIDURYA
Published: May 2011

Effect of vacancy and Stone–Wales defects on the oscillatory behavior of (5,5)/(10,10) carbon nanotube-based oscillator are studied using NVE molecular dynamics simulations. Results show that defects reduce stability of the oscillators. Effect of single vacancy defect on stability is very small, whereas Stone–Wales defect considerably reduces the stability thereby damping the oscillations quickly. Further increase in density of vacancy defects causes a monotonic decrease of stability of oscillator. In all cases the initial temperature (1 and 300 K) had almost no effect on the oscillation stability.
ANALYZING AND REVISING A TWO-WAY PROTOCOL FOR QUANTUM CRYPTOGRAPHY WITH A NONMAXIMALLY ENTANGLED QUBIT PAIR
Authors: LIU ZHIHAO , CHEN HANWU , LIU WENJIE , XU JUAN , LI ZHIQIANG
Published: May 2011

The security of the second (STF-B) protocol of quantum cryptography proposed by Shimizu, Tamaki and Fukasaka (STF) [Phys. Rev. A80 (2009) 022323] is analyzed in a general way, which shows that the STF-B protocol is vulnerable under a kind of generalized attack. Sufficient and necessary condition for which Eve can successfully attack the message M without introducing errors is deduced. It shows that the correlation-elicitation (CE) attack strategy found by Qin et al. [Phys. Rev. A82 (2010) 036301] is a special case of the sufficient and necessary condition. Next, we advance an effective and efficient strategy to prevent the general attack. Hence, the STF-B protocol is revised to a secure one by improving the control mode.
Renal medullary endothelin-1 is decreased in Dahl salt-sensitive rats
Authors: Speed Joshua S. , LaMarca Babbette , Berry Hunter , Cockrell Kathy , George Eric M. , Granger Joey P.
Published: May 2011

Although it is well established that the renal endothelin (ET-1) system plays an important role in regulating sodium excretion and blood pressure through activation of renal medullary ETBreceptors, the role of this system in Dahl salt-sensitive (DS) hypertension is unclear. The purpose of this study was to determine whether the DS rat has abnormalities in the renal medullary endothelin system when maintained on a high sodium intake. The data indicate that Dahl salt-resistant rats (DR) on a high-salt diet had a six-fold higher urinary endothelin excretion than in the DR rats with low Na+intake (17.8 ± 4 pg/day vs. 112 ± 44 pg/day). In sharp contrast, urinary endothelin levels increased only twofold in DS rats in response to a high Na+intake (13 ± 2 pg/day vs. 29.8 ± 5.5 pg/day). Medullary endothelin concentration in DS rats on a high-Na+diet was also significantly lower than DR rats on a high-Na+diet (31 ± 2.8 pg/mg vs. 70.9 ± 5 pg/mg). Furthermore, DS rats had a significant reduction in medullary ETBreceptor expression compared with DR rats while on a high-Na+diet. Finally, chronic infusion of ET-1 directly into the renal medulla blunted Dahl salt-sensitive hypertension. These data indicate that a decrease in medullary production of ET-1 in the DS rat could play an important role in the development of salt-sensitive hypertension observed in the DS rat.
Inhibition of the protein kinase MK-2 protects podocytes from nephrotic syndrome-related injury
Authors: Pengal Ruma , Guess Adam J. , Agrawal Shipra , Manley Joshua , Ransom Richard F. , Mourey Robert J. , Benndorf Rainer , Smoyer William E.
Published: May 2011

While mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) activation has been implicated in the pathogenesis of various glomerular diseases, including nephrotic syndrome (NS), its specific role in podocyte injury is not known. We hypothesized that MK-2, a downstream substrate of p38 MAPK, mediates the adverse effects of this pathway and that inhibition of MK-2 would protect podocytes from NS-related injury. Using cultured podocytes, we analyzed 1) the roles of MK-2 and p38 MAPK in puromycin aminonucleoside (PAN)-induced podocyte injury; 2) the ability of specific MK-2 and p38 MAPK inhibitors to protect podocytes against injury; 3) the role of serum albumin, known to induce podocyte injury, in activating p38 MAPK/MK-2 signaling; and 4) the role of p38 MAPK/MK-2 signaling in the expression of Cox-2, an enzyme associated with podocyte injury. Treatment with protein kinase inhibitors specific for both MK-2 (C23, a pyrrolopyridine-type compound) or p38 MAPK (SB203580) reduced PAN-induced podocyte injury and actin cytoskeletal disruption. Both inhibitors reduced baseline podocyte p38 MAPK/MK-2 signaling, as measured by the degree of phosphorylation of HSPB1, a downstream substrate of MK-2, but exhibited disparate effects on upstream signaling. Serum albumin activated p38 MAPK/MK-2 signaling and induced Cox-2 expression, and these responses were blocked by both inhibitors. Given the critical importance of podocyte injury to both NS and other progressive glomerular diseases, these data suggest an important role for p38 MAPK/MK-2 signaling in podocyte injury and identify MK-2 inhibition as a promising potential therapeutic strategy to protect podocytes in various glomerular diseases.
mGluR1, but not mGluR5, activates feed-forward inhibition in the medial prefrontal cortex to impair decision making
Authors: Sun Hao , Neugebauer Volker
Published: May 2011

Cognitive flexibility depends on the integrity of the prefrontal cortex (PFC). We showed previously that impaired decision making in pain results from amygdala-driven inhibition of medial PFC neurons, but the underlying mechanisms remain to be determined. Using whole cell patch clamp in rat brain slices and a cognitive behavioral task, we tested the hypothesis that group I metabotropic glutamate receptors (mGluRs) activate feed-forward inhibition to decrease excitability and output function of PFC pyramidal cells, thus impairing decision making. Polysynaptic inhibitory postsynaptic currents (IPSCs) and monosynaptic excitatory postsynaptic currents (EPSCs) were evoked in layer V pyramidal cells by stimulating presumed amygdala afferents. An mGluR1/5 agonist [(S)-3,5-dihydroxyphenylglycine, DHPG] increased synaptic inhibition more strongly than excitatory transmission. The facilitatory effects were blocked by an mGluR1 [( S)-(+)-α-amino-4-carboxy-2-methylbenzeneacetic acid, LY367385], but not mGluR5, antagonist, 3-[(2-methyl-1,3-thiazol-4-yl)ethynyl]pyridine. IPSCs were blocked by bicuculline and decreased by 2,3-dioxo-6-nitro-1,2,3,4-tetrahydrobenzo[f]quinoxaline-7-sulfonamide disodium salt (NBQX). Facilitation of synaptic inhibition by DHPG was glutamate driven because it was blocked by NBQX. DHPG increased frequency but not amplitude of spontaneous IPSCs; consistent with action potential-dependent synaptic inhibition, tetrodotoxin (TTX) prevented the facilitatory effects. DHPG decreased synaptically evoked spikes (E-S coupling) and depolarization-induced spiking [frequency-current ( f-I) relationship]. This effect was indirect, resulting from glutamate-driven synaptic inhibition, because it persisted when a G protein blocker was included in the pipette but was blocked by GABAA receptor antagonists and NBQX. In contrast, DHPG increased E-S coupling and f-I relationships in mPFC interneurons through a presynaptic action, further supporting the concept of feed-forward inhibition. DHPG also impaired the ability of the animals to switch strategies in a decision-making task; bicuculline restored normal decision making, whereas a GABAA receptor agonist (muscimol) mimicked the decision-making deficit. The results show that mGluR1 activates feed-forward inhibition of PFC pyramidal cells to impair cognitive functions.
Prism adaptation and generalization during visually guided locomotor tasks
Authors: Alexander M. Scott , Flodin Brent W. G. , Marigold Daniel S.
Published: May 2011

The ability of individuals to adapt locomotion to constraints associated with the complex environments normally encountered in everyday life is paramount for survival. Here, we tested the ability of 24 healthy young adults to adapt to a rightward prism shift (∼11.3°) while either walking and stepping to targets (i.e., precision stepping task) or stepping over an obstacle (i.e., obstacle avoidance task). We subsequently tested for generalization to the other locomotor task. In the precision stepping task, we determined the lateral end-point error of foot placement from the targets. In the obstacle avoidance task, we determined toe clearance and lateral foot placement distance from the obstacle before and after stepping over the obstacle. We found large, rightward deviations in foot placement on initial exposure to prisms in both tasks. The majority of measures demonstrated adaptation over repeated trials, and adaptation rates were dependent mainly on the task. On removal of the prisms, we observed negative aftereffects for measures of both tasks. Additionally, we found a unilateral symmetric generalization pattern in that the left, but not the right, lower limb indicated generalization across the 2 locomotor tasks. These results indicate that the nervous system is capable of rapidly adapting to a visuomotor mismatch during visually demanding locomotor tasks and that the prism-induced adaptation can, at least partially, generalize across these tasks. The results also support the notion that the nervous system utilizes an internal model for the control of visually guided locomotion.
Biosolids Application on Banana Production: Soil Chemical Properties and Plant Nutrition
Authors: Teixeira Luiz Antonio Junqueira , Berton Ronaldo Severiano , Coscione Aline Reneé , Saes Luis Alberto
Published: May 2011

Biosolids are relatively rich in N, P, and S and could be used to substitute mineral fertilization for banana crop. A field experiment was carried out in a Yellow Oxisol to investigate the effects of biosolids application on soil chemical properties and on banana leaf's nutrient concentration during the first cropping cycle. Soil analysis (pH, organic matter, resin P, exchangeable Ca and K, available B, DTPA-extracted micronutrients, and heavy metals) and index-leaf analysis (B, Cu, Fe, Mn, Zn, Cd, Cr, Ni, and Pb) were evaluated. Biosolids can completely substitute mineral N and P fertilizer to banana growth. Soil exchangeable K and leaf-K concentration must be monitored in order to avoid K deficiency in banana plants. No risk of heavy metal (Cr, Ni, Pb, and Cd) concentration increase in the index leaf was observed when biosolids were applied at the recommended N rate.
Migraine-Related Vertigo: Eight Years of Experience with Pharmacologic Prophyilaxis
Authors: Maione Arturo , Politi Doriano , Pavin Alessandra
Published: May 2011

In 2001, our dizziness unit elaborated a diagnostic-therapeutic protocol for patients affected by migraine-related vertigo (MRV). This protocol contemplated the selection from March 2001 to December 2009 of 98 patients affected by MRV out of 1357 consecutive patients who came to our dizziness unit and the administration of pharmacologic prophylaxis. The results obtained constitute the object of this prospective, observational study. The efficacy of a 6-month treatment was registered by the patients by means of a self-assessment questionnaire where the results were divided into 5 categories, and, in case of patients with recurrent vertiginous attack, we recorded the percentage of the reduction in the frequency of the attacks. Of the sixty-four patients who completed the treatment, 43 (67.2%) reported complete resolution or substantial control, and, of the 57 patients suffering from recurrent vertigo attacks, 44 (77.2%) reported a reduction in the frequency of the attacks of at least 50%.
In Vitro Antiplasmodial Activity of Sesquiterpene Lactones from Ambrosia tenuifolia
Authors: Sülsen V. , Gutierrez Yappu D. , Laurella L. , Anesini C. , Gimenez Turba A. , Martino V. , Muschietti L.
Published: May 2011

The in vitro antiplasmodial activity of Ambrosia tenuifolia organic extract and its isolated sesquiterpene lactones, psilostachyin and peruvin, has been evaluated against Plasmodium falciparum F32 and W2 strains. The cytotoxicity of both compounds was determined on lymphoid cells, and their corresponding selectivity indexes (SIs) were calculated. Peruvin was the most active compound on F32 strain of P. falciparum with a 50% inhibitory concentration value (IC50) of 0.3 μg/mL (1.1 μM) whereas psilostachyin showed activity on both strains (IC50 = 0.6 (2.1 μM) and 1.8 μg/mL (6.4 μM)). Fifty percent cytotoxic concentration (CC50) values (48 h) were 6.8 μg/mL (24.3 μM) and 10.0 μg/mL (37.9 μM) for psilostachyin and peruvin, respectively.
Next‐Generation Sequencing of MicroRNAs for Breast Cancer Detection
Authors: Wu Qian , Lu Zuhong , Li Hailing , Lu Jiafeng , Guo Li , Ge Qinyu
Published: May 2011

It is reported that different microRNA (miRNA) profiles can be detected in the blood of cancer patients. We investigated that whether the key serum miRNAs could discriminate patients with and without breast cancer. This study was divided into three parts: (1) miRNA marker discovery using SOLiD sequencing‐based miRNA profiling on cancerous and adjacent noncancerous breast tissue of one breast cancer patient; (2) marker selection and validation by real‐time PCR on a small set of serum; (3) gene ontology analysis of the key miRNA target genes. Of genome‐wide tissue miRNA expression analysis, five miRNAs were found to be altered more than fivefold by SOLiD sequencing (i.e., miR‐29a, miR‐23a, miR‐23b, miR‐192, and miR‐21). All the five miRNAs were validated on the 20 breast cancer patients and 20 controls. miR‐29a and miR‐21 were significantly increased in the serum of breast cancer patients (P < .05). Gene ontology analysis of the target genes revealed enrichment for special biological process categories, that is, signal transduction, development, apoptosis, cell proliferation, and cell adhesion. SOLiD sequencing provides a promising method for cancer‐related miRNA profiling. Serum miRNAs may be useful biomarkers for breast cancer detection.
Nonsteroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs and Risk of Melanoma
Authors: Jeter Joanne M. , Bonner Joseph D. , Johnson Timothy M. , Gruber Stephen B.
Published: May 2011

Because nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) inhibit tumor growthin vitro, we investigated the association between NSAIDs and melanoma to determine if there was epidemiologic evidence of a chemopreventive effect from these medications. Three hundred twenty-seven subjects with incident melanoma and 119 melanoma-free controls completed a structured interview assessing melanoma risk factors. The unadjusted odds ratio (OR) for use of nonaspirin NSAIDs was 0.58 (95% CI 0.31–1.11), in a comparison of subjects with melanoma to controls. After adjustment for melanoma risk factors, the OR was 0.71 (95% CI 0.23–2.02). Aspirin users had an unadjusted OR of 0.85 (95% CI 0.45–1.69) and an adjusted OR of 1.45 (95% CI 0.44–4.74). In this pilot study, we found no evidence of a significant association between analgesic use and melanoma risk when potential confounders are assessed. Based on conflicting reports in the literature, meta-analysis may be appropriate.
Deposition of PEDOT: PSS Nanoparticles as a Conductive Microlayer Anode in OLEDs Device by Desktop Inkjet Printer
Authors: Ummartyotin S. , Juntaro J. , Wu C. , Sain M. , Manuspiya H.
Published: May 2011

A simple microfabrication technique for delivering macromolecules and patterning microelectrode arrays using desktop inkjet printer was described. Aqueous solution of nanoparticle of poly (3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene) (PEDOT) doped with polystyrene sulfonic acid (PSS) was prepared while its particle size, the surface tension, and the viscosity of the solution were adjusted to be suitable for deposition on a flexible cellulose nanocomposite substrate via inkjet printer. The statistical average of PEDOT: PSS particle size of 100 nm was observed. The microthickness, surface morphology, and electrical conductivity of the printed substrate were then characterized by profilometer, atomic force microscope (AFM), and four-point probe electrical measurement, respectively. The inkjet deposition of PEDOT: PSS was successfully carried out, whilst retained its transparency feature. Highly smooth surface (roughness ~23–44 nm) was achieved.
Matrix Metalloproteinase-9 and Haemozoin: Wedding Rings for Human Host andPlasmodium falciparumParasite in Complicated Malaria
Authors: Prato Mauro , Giribaldi Giuliana
Published: May 2011

It is generally accepted that the combination of bothPlasmodium falciparumparasite and human host factors is involved in the pathogenesis of complicated severe malaria, including cerebral malaria (CM). Among parasite products, the malarial pigment haemozoin (HZ) has been shown to impair the functions of mononuclear and endothelial cells. Different CM models were associated with enhanced levels of matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs), a family of proteolytic enzymes able to disrupt subendothelial basement membrane and tight junctions and shed, activate, or inactivate cytokines, chemokines, and other MMPs through cleavage from their precursors. Among MMPs, a good candidate for targeted therapy might be MMP-9, whose mRNA and protein expression enhancement as well as direct proenzyme activation by HZ have been recently investigated in a series of studies by our group and others. In the present paper the role of HZ and MMP-9 in complicated malaria, as well as their interactions, will be discussed.
Plasma Orexin-A Levels in COPD Patients with Hypercapnic Respiratory Failure
Authors: Zhu Lin-Yun , Summah Hanssa , Jiang Hong-Ni , Qu Jie-Ming
Published: May 2011

Orexins have previously been shown to promote wakefulness, regulate lipid metabolism and participate in energy homeostasis. The aim of the study was to determine the relationship between plasma orexin-A and body composition in COPD in-patients with hypercapnic respiratory failure. 40 patients with hypercapnic respiratory failure and 22 healthy individuals were enrolled prospectively in this study. Plasma orexin-A levels, BMI, SaO2, PaCO2and PaO2were noted for all the patients. Plasma orexin-A levels were higher in the underweight (UW) group, normal weight (NW) group and overweight (OW) group of COPD patients as compared with UW, NW and OW group of the control group (P<.05). Plasma orexin-A in COPD patients were higher in the OW group than in the NW group and the UW group. Plasma orexin-A levels showed significant correlation with body mass index (BMI), independent of PaO2(r=0.576;P<.05) and %fat (r=0.367;P<.05); a negative correlation was noted between plasma orexin-A levels and PaO2(r=−0.738;P<.05) and SaO2(r=−0.616;P<.05). Our results suggest that orexin-A levels are high in COPD patients with hypercapnic respiratory failure, and vary according to BMI and body composition. Orexin-A may be associated with the severity of hypoxemia in COPD patients with hypercapnic respiratory failure.
Genetics of Childhood Obesity
Authors: Zhao Jianhua , Grant Struan F. A.
Published: May 2011

Obesity is a major health problem and an immense economic burden on the health care systems both in the United States and the rest of the world. The prevalence of obesity in children and adults in the United States has increased dramatically over the past decade. Besides environmental factors, genetic factors are known to play an important role in the pathogenesis of obesity. Genome-wide association studies (GWAS) have revealed strongly associated genomic variants associated with most common disorders; indeed there is general consensus on these findings from generally positive replication outcomes by independent groups. To date, there have been only a few GWAS-related reports for childhood obesity specifically, with studies primarily uncovering loci in the adult setting instead. It is clear that a number of loci previously reported from GWAS analyses of adult BMI and/or obesity also play a role in childhood obesity.
Anti-inflammatory and Antinociceptive Activity of Ouabain in Mice
Authors: de Vasconcelos Danielle Ingrid Bezerra , Leite Jacqueline Alves , Carneiro Luciana Teles , Piuvezam Márcia Regina , de Lima Maria Raquel Vitorino , de Morais Liana Clébia Lima , Rumjanek Vivian Mary , Rodrigues-Mascarenhas Sandra
Published: May 2011

Ouabain, an inhibitor of the Na+/K+-ATPase pump, was identified as an endogenous substance of human plasma. Ouabain has been studied for its ability to interfere with various regulatory mechanisms. Despite the studies portraying the ability of ouabain to modulate the immune response, little is known about the effect of this substance on the inflammatory process. The aim of this work was to study the effects triggered by ouabain on inflammation and nociceptive models. Ouabain produced a reduction in the mouse paw edema induced by carrageenan, compound 48/80 and zymosan. This anti-inflammatory potential might be related to the inhibition of prostaglandin E2, bradykinin, and mast-cell degranulation but not to histamine. Ouabain also modulated the inflammation induced by concanavalin A by inhibiting cell migration. Besides that, ouabain presented antinociceptive activity. Taken these data together, this work demonstrated, for the first time, that ouabain presentedin vivoanalgesic and anti-inflammatory effects.
Multi-Hop Data Communication Algorithm for Clustered Wireless Sensor Networks
Authors: Kumar Dilip , Patel R. B.
Published: May 2011

Recently, continued advances in wireless communication technologies have enabled the deployment of large-scale wireless sensor networks (WSNs). A key concern in the design and development of such WSNs is energy consumption. The hierarchical clustering algorithm is a kind of a technique which is used to reduce energy consumption. It can also increase the scalability, stability, and network lifetime. In some clustering schemes, the communication between a sensor node and its designated cluster head (CH) is assumed to be single-hop. However, multihop communication is often required when the communication range of the sensor nodes is limited or the number of sensor nodes is very large in a network. In this paper, we propose a distributed, randomized, multi-hop clustering algorithm to organize the sensor nodes in a WSN into clusters. The data collected by each sensor node communicate with their respective CHs by using multi-hop communication. The selected CHs collect data from member nodes in their respective clusters, aggregate the data, and send it to a base using multi-hop communication. Simulation results show that proposed algorithm efficiently mitigates the hot spot problem in heterogeneous WSN and achieves much improvement in network lifetime and load balance compared to the existing algorithms.
Effect of eIF3a on Response of Lung Cancer Patients to Platinum-Based Chemotherapy by Regulating DNA Repair
Authors: Yin Ji-Ye , Shen Jie , Dong Zi-Zheng , Huang Qiong , Zhong Mei-Zuo , Feng De-Yun , Zhou Hong-Hao , Zhang Jian-Ting , Liu Zhao-Qian
Published: May 2011

Purpose: The purpose of this study is to test the hypothesis that eIF3a may regulate the expression of DNA repair proteins which, in turn, affects response of lung cancer patients to treatments by DNA-damaging anticancer drugs.

Experimental Design: Immunohistochemistry was used to determine the expression of eIF3a in 211 human lung cancer tissues followed by association analysis of eIF3a expression with patient's response to platinum-based chemotherapy. Ectopic overexpression and RNA interference knockdown of eIF3a were carried out in NIH3T3 and H1299 cell lines, respectively, to determine the effect of altered eIF3a expression on cellular response to cisplatin, doxorubicine, etoposide (VP-16), vincristine, and vinblastine by using MTT assay. The DNA repair capacity of these cells was evaluated by using host-cell reactivation assay. Real-time reverse transcriptase PCR and Western Blot analyses were carried out to determine the effect of eIF3a on the DNA repair genes by using cells with altered eIF3a expression.

Results: eIF3a expression associates with response of lung cancer patients to platinum-based chemotherapy. eIF3a knockdown or overexpression, respectively, increased and decreased the cellular resistance to cisplatin and anthrocycline anticancer drugs, DNA repair activity, and expression of DNA repair proteins.

Conclusions: eIF3a plays an important role in regulating the expression of DNA repair proteins which, in turn, contributes to cellular response to DNA-damaging anticancer drugs and patients' response to platinum-based chemotherapy. Clin Cancer Res; 17(13); 4600–9. ©2011 AACR.
Decreased RECK and Increased EMMPRIN Expression in Urothelial Carcinoma of the Bladder Are Associated with Tumor Aggressiveness
Authors: Wittschieber Daniel , Stenzinger Albrecht , Klauschen Frederick , Stephan Carsten , Jung Klaus , Erbersdobler Andreas , Rabien Anja
Published: May 2011

Objective: Urothelial bladder carcinomas show a divergent biological behavior, which significantly complicates risk stratification and clinical management. The MMP repressor RECK and the MMP activator EMMPRIN regulate the invasive potential by metalloproteinase-induced stromal degradation. Data on RECK in urothelial bladder cancer are lacking and information on EMMPRIN is sparse. This study aims to investigate the expression of RECK and EMMPRIN in urothelial carcinoma of the bladder and to correlate these findings with clinicopathological parameters. Methods: Our study included 127 specimens of urothelial carcinomas derived from 103 patients who underwent either TUR-B or cystectomy. Immunohistochemical expression analysis was performed for RECK, EMMPRIN, MMP-2, MMP-9 and MMP-14. Expression levels were graded for staining intensity and correlated with pT stage and WHO tumor grade. Results: Invasive (≧pT1) as well as WHO high-grade urothelial carcinomas showed a statistically significant and stepwise downregulation of RECK (p < 0.001) and concomitant upregulation of EMMPRIN (p < 0.001) compared to non-invasive and WHO low-grade tumors. No correlation was observed for the MMPs investigated. Conclusion: Decreased RECK and increased EMMPRIN expression are associated with increasing stage and grade. Both proteins may serve as molecular marker for the distinction between potentially invasive (≧pT1) and non-invasive tumors (≤pTa).
PRO_10 – A New Tissue-Based Prognostic Multigene Marker in Patients with Early Estrogen Receptor-Positive Breast Cancer
Authors: Moor A.E. , Guevara C. , Altermatt H.J. , Warth R. , Jaggi R. , Aebi S.
Published: May 2011

Background/Aims: Clinicopathological and molecular factors determine the prognosis of breast cancer. PRO_10 is a prognostic score based on quantitative RT-PCR of 10 proliferation-associated genes obtained from formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded breast cancer tissues. We revalidated PRO_10 in patients treated in a non-trial setting. Methods: The charts of 315 patients with postmenopausal estrogen receptor (ER)-positive breast cancer between 1996 and 2004 were reviewed. Forty-eight cases relapsed within 5 years of diagnosis; they were paired with controls by matching the N and T stage, histological grade, percent ER-positive cells, human epidermal growth factor receptor 2, age, adjuvant chemo- and endocrine therapy. The score was tested by conditional logistic regression. Results: Despite strict matching, PRO_10 remained prognostic for recurrence in the whole group (odds ratio, OR = 4.7, p = 0.005) and in subgroups of grade 2 (OR = 5.5, p = 0.009) and N0 cancers (OR = 15, p = 0.002). Five-year recurrence-free survival was 29% in patients with high and 67% in patients with low scores (p = 0.002). PRO_10 was prognostic for overall survival (5-year overall survival 71 vs. 91%). Conclusion: PRO_10 is an independent prognostic marker in postmenopausal ER-positive breast cancer. It is based on formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded tissue and could be integrated easily into the routine diagnostic workflow.
Clopidogrel Response Variability and Its Correlation with Early Recurrent Cardiovascular Events in Chinese Patients Undergoing Percutaneous Coronary Intervention
Authors: Liu Yamin , Liu Naifeng , Li Weilan , Shao Hua
Published: May 2011

Background/Aims:Numerous studies conducted on Caucasian patients have reported that individual responsiveness to clopidogrel varies widely, whereas there are only a few published studies on the antiplatelet effect of clopidogrel therapy in Chinese patients undergoing percutaneous coronary intervention. The present study aimed to evaluate clopidogrel antiplatelet effects and their correlation with early recurrent cardiovascular (CV) events. Methods: Platelet aggregation (with 5 and 20 µmol/l ADP) and the expression of glycoprotein Ib and P-selectin were measured at baseline and 12 and 36 h after the clopidogrel loading dose in 111 consecutive patients. The primary outcome was a definite CV event. Results: There was marked interindividual variability in the drug response, as measured by platelet aggregation and P-selectin expression. The proportions of nonresponders at 12 and 36 h were 32 and 19%, respectively, with 5 µmol/l ADP, 38 and 28% with 20 µmol/l ADP, and 27 and 17% according to P-selectin expression. The maximal aggregation rates stimulated by 5 µmol/l ADP in nonresponders were significantly higher than those of the responders at 12 h (57.53 ± 14.24% vs. 33.91 ± 10.79%; p < 0.0001) and at 36 h (48.65 ± 15.46% vs. 30.31 ± 16.04%; p < 0.0001). During the 3-month follow-up period, 11 patients (32.4%) among the nonresponders, 2 patients (7.1%) among the low responders and none of the responders suffered a recurrent CV event (p < 0.0001). Conclusions: The antiplatelet effectiveness of clopidogrel has a wide interindividual variation, and nonresponsiveness to clopidogrel is associated with an increased risk of early recurrent CV events.
Enhanced Expression of Podoplanin in Oral Carcinomas in situ and Squamous Cell Carcinomas
Authors: Funayama Akinori , Cheng Jun , Maruyama Satoshi , Yamazaki Manabu , Kobayashi Takanori , Syafriadi Mei , Kundu Sukalyan , Shingaki Susumu , Saito Chikara , Saku Takashi
Published: May 2011

Objective: Podoplanin, a known lymphatic endothelial cell marker, has been reported to be expressed in various types of cancer. To elucidate the expression of podoplanin in precancerous lesions, we examined the immunohistochemical profiles of podoplanin in oral squamous epithelial lesions. Method: We studied a total of 298 foci of squamous cell carcinoma (SCC), carcinoma in situ (CIS), epithelial dysplasia, and hyperplastic and/or normal epithelial lesions by immunohistochemistry using D2-40. Results: There was no positivity for podoplanin in normal or hyperplastic epithelia, while all of the CIS and SCC foci stained positive. Approximately one third of the mild dysplasia foci (10 of 36 foci, 28%) and 80% of moderate dysplasia foci (78/98) showed grade 1 positive reactions (positive only in the 1st layer). Grade 2 reactions (up to 4th layer) were seen in 4 of 98 moderate dysplasia foci (4%), 29 of 74 CIS foci (39%), and 3 of 30 SCC foci (10%). Grade 3 reactions (to more than 5th layer) were found in 35 (47%) CIS foci and 26 (87%) SCC foci. Conclusions: The relationship between the present histological categorization and podoplanin grade was statistically significant. D2-40 expression is considered to be related to the severity of oral precancerous lesions.
Cilostazol in Acute Ischemic Stroke Treatment (CAIST Trial): A Randomized Double-Blind Non-Inferiority Trial
Authors: Lee Yong-Seok , Bae Hee-Joon , Kang Dong-Wha , Lee Seung-Hoon , Yu Kyungho , Park Jong-Moo , Cho Yong-Jin , Hong Keun-Sik , Kim Dong-Eog , Kwon Sun Uck , Lee Kyung Bok , Rha Joung-Ho , Koo Jaseong , Han Moon-Gu , Lee Soo Joo , Lee Ju-Hun , Jung Sang Wook , Lee Byung-Chul , Kim Jong S.
Published: May 2011

Background: Aspirin is a proven antiplatelet agent in acute ischemic stroke, and there are no current guidelines for other antiplatelet treatments. We aimed to compare the efficacy and safety of cilostazol with aspirin in acute stroke. Methods: Patients with measurable neurological deficits (NIHSS score ≤15) within 48 h of onset were randomly assigned to cilostazol (200 mg/day) or aspirin (300 mg/day) for 90 days. The primary endpoint was a modified Rankin Scale (mRS) score of 0–2 at 90 days. Cardiovascular events, bleeding complications, and other functional outcomes were also assessed. Statistical analysis was carried out by intention-to-treat and per-protocol bases. This trial is registered with ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT00272454). Results: In total, 458 patients were enrolled (mean age of 63 years, median NIHSS of 3), and mRS at 90 days was obtained in 447 patients. The primary endpoint was achieved in 76% (173/228) of those randomized to cilostazol and in 75% (165/219) assigned to aspirin, which supported the pre-specified non-inferiority of cilostazol to aspirin (95% CI of proportion difference: –6.15 to 7.22%, p = 0.0004). These results were also supported by per-protocol analysis (p = 0.045). Cardiovascular events occurred in 6 patients (3%) treated with cilostazol, and in 9 patients (4%) treated with aspirin (p = 0.41). Adverse events were more common in cilostazol-treated patients during the trial (91 vs. 85%, p = 0.055), while the frequencies of bleeding complications (cilostazol 11%, aspirin 13%, p = 0.43) or drug discontinuation (cilostazol 10%, aspirin 7%, p = 0.32) were not different. Conclusion: Cilostazol is feasible in acute ischemic stroke, and comparable to aspirin in its efficacy and safety.
Poly(ADP-Ribose) Polymerase-1 Mediates Angiotensin II-Induced Expression of Plasminogen Activator Inhibitor-1 and Fibronectin in Rat Mesangial Cells
Authors: Zhu Hengmei , Jiang Zongpei , Lei Ping , Huang Wen , Yu Xueqing
Published: May 2011

Objective: To investigate the effects of poly(ADP-ribose) polymerase-1 (PARP-1) on angiotensin II (Ang II)-induced plasminogen activator inhibitor-1 (PAI-1) and fibronectin (FN) in rat mesangial cells (RMCs). Methods: Followed by serum starvation for 16 h, RMCs were exposed to Ang II for an indicated time to examine the protein expression of PARP-1. The cells were treated with or without Ang II for 12–24 h in the presence or absence of an inhibitor of PARP, N-(6-oxo-5,6-dihydrophenanthridin-2-yl)-N,N-dimethylacetamide hydrochloride (PJ34) or small interfering RNA (siRNA) duplexes targeting PARP-1. The mRNA and protein expressions of PARP-1, PAI-1 and FN were determined by real-time RT-PCR and Western blot, respectively. The activity of PARP-1 was examined by colorimetric assay. Results: Ang II did not only significantly induce PARP-1 expression and activity, but also increased PAI-1 and FN expression in RMCs. All these responses induced by Ang II were significantly inhibited by both the PARP inhibitor PJ34 and downregulating PARP-1 with the siRNA technique. Conclusions: Our data suggest that PARP-1 mediates Ang II-induced PAI-1 and FN in RMCs and may thus represent a potential therapeutic target in the treatment of glomerular disease.
Rituximab-Induced Interstitial Lung Disease: Case Report and Literature Review
Authors: Zayen Aymen , Rais Henda , Rifi Hela , Ouarda Mouna , Afrit Mehdi , Cherif Aziz , Mezline Amel
Published: May 2011

Rituximab, a chimeric monoclonal antibody against CD20, very rarely causes lung toxicity. Toxicity may present as interstitial lung disease, alveolar hemorrhage and adult respiratory distress syndrome. Sixteen cases of rituximab-induced interstitial lung disease (R-ILD) have been reported. With this case and a review of all other cases reported in the literature, we will try to identify the features of R-ILD, its treatment and why the early diagnosis of this complication is important.
Smoker’s Boils
Authors: Happle Rudolf , König Arne
Published: May 2011

Background: About 90% of patients with hidradenitis suppurativa (HS) are smokers. A crucial eliciting role of smoking appears to be certain. In order to increase the awareness of this avoidable major cause of the disease and to facilitate the recognition of incipient disorder, we propose the more specific term ‘smoker’s boils’ for HS lesions of patients who are smokers. Method: Clinical pictures of early lesions are presented. For the exceptional cases occurring in nonsmokers, the traditional name HS, representing an umbrella term, is adequate. Result/Conclusion: The renaming of HS as smoker’s boils has the practical advantage that a correct diagnosis can be made at an incipient stage of the disorder. If patients stop smoking at such an early stage of HS, they most likely have a chance that this devastating disease will not progress.
A Case of Xanthoma Disseminatum with Spontaneous Resolution over 10 Years: Review of the Literature on Long-Term Follow-Up
Authors: Park H.Y. , Joe D.H. , Kang H.C. , Yun S.J.
Published: May 2011

Xanthoma disseminatum (XD) is a rare and potentially progressive non-Langerhans-cell histiocytosis. To date, a few cases of XD with spontaneous complete resolution have been described. The present report describes a 16-year-old girl who presented with yellow to red-brown papules and nodules on her eyelids, cheeks, axillae, back and buttocks. Indirect laryngoscopy showed multiple xanthomatous plaques on the larynx, posterior pharynx, epiglottis, and vocal cords. Additional findings were polyuria, polydipsia, and amenorrhea. Skin biopsy and electron microscopy results confirmed the diagnosis of XD. The patient was treated with fenofibrate, simvastatin, desmopressin, and sex-hormone replacement therapy. Her skin lesions began to slowly fade 6 years after disease onset, eventually resolving spontaneously and completely, but leaving an atrophic scar, frank anetoderma, and persisting diabetes insipidus. This case report together with a review of the English-language literature on the long-term follow-up of XD patients provides additional information on the natural history of this disease.
Mass spectrometry for the evaluation of cardiovascular diseases based on proteomics and lipidomics
Authors: Thomas Aurélien , Lenglet Sébastien , Chaurand Pierre , Déglon Julien , Mangin Patrice , Mach François , Steffens Sabine , Wolfender Jean-Luc , Staub Christian
Published: May 2011

The identification and quantification of proteins and lipids is of major importance for the diagnosis, prognosis and understanding of the molecular mechanisms involved in disease development. Owing to its selectivity and sensitivity, mass spectrometry has become a key technique in analytical platforms for proteomic and lipidomic investigations. Using this technique, many strategies have been developed based on unbiased or targeted approaches to highlight or monitor molecules of interest from biomatrices. Although these approaches have largely been employed in cancer research, this type of investigation has been met by a growing interest in the field of cardiovascular disorders, potentially leading to the discovery of novel biomarkers and the development of new therapies. In this paper, we will review the different mass spectrometry- based proteomic and lipidomic strategies applied in cardiovascular diseases, especially atherosclerosis. Particular attention will be given to recent developments and the role of bioinformatics in data treatment. This review will be of broad interest to the medical community by providing a tutorial of how mass spectrometric strategies can support clinical trials.
Thematic Series on the Pathobiology of Vascular Calcification
Authors: Towler Dwight A. , Demer Linda L.
Published: May 2011

Vascular calcification increasingly afflicts our aging, dysmetabolic population. Once considered only a passive process of dead and dying cells, data from multiple laboratories worldwide have converged to demonstrate that vascular calcification is a highly regulated form of biomineralization. The goal of this thematic review series is to highlight what is known concerning the biological “players” and “game rules” with respect to vascular mineral metabolism. Armed with this understanding, it is hoped that novel therapeutic strategies can be crafted to prevent and treat vascular calcium accrual, to the benefit of our patients afflicted with arteriosclerotic valvular and vascular diseases.
10–25-Day Intraseasonal Variability of Convection over the Sahel: A Role of the Saharan Heat Low and Midlatitudes
Authors: Roehrig R. , Chauvin F. , Lafore J.-P.
Published: May 2011

The understanding and forecasting of persistent dry or wet periods of the West African monsoon (WAM), especially those that occur at the intraseasonal time scale, are crucial to improve food management and disaster mitigation in the Sahel region. In the present study, the authors assess how the 10–25-day intraseasonal variability of convection over the Sahel is related to the recently documented intraseasonal variability of the Saharan heat low (SHL) and the associated extratropical circulation. Strongest and most frequent interactions occur when the SHL intraseasonal fluctuations lead those of convection over the Sahel with a 5-day lag. Using a nonlinear event-based approach, such a combination is shown to concern about one-third of Sahelian dry and wet spells and, in the case of dry spells, to yield convective anomalies that are stronger, last longer by at least 2 days, and reach a larger spatial scale. It is then argued that the 10–25-day intraseasonal variability of convection over the Sahel can be partly explained by the midlatitude intraseasonal variability, through a major role played by the SHL. The anomalous midlevel circulations observed during Sahelian wet and dry events can be shifted from the midlatitudes, which provide a complementary mechanism to that invoking equatorial Rossby wave dynamics. These two mechanisms are likely to interfere together in a constructive or destructive way, leading to high temporal and spatial variability of the Sahelian dry and wet spells.

As a particular intraseasonal event, the WAM onset is shown to be clearly favored by phases of the SHL intraseasonal variability, when the Mediterranean ventilation is weakened and the SHL is able to strengthen. Conversely, the formation of a strong cold air surge over Libya and Egypt and its propagation toward the Sahel lead to the collapse of the SHL, which inhibits the WAM onset. From these extratropical–tropical interactions, more skillful forecasts of the Sahelian wet and dry spells and of the WAM onset can be expected. In particular, the monitoring of both the SHL intraseasonal activity and that of the equatorial Rossby wave should provide relevant information to forecast at least two-thirds of such high-impact events.