bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Intracellular Life ofCryptococcus neoformans
Authors: Coelho Carolina , Bocca Anamelia L. , Casadevall Arturo
Published: September 2013

Cryptococcus neoformans is a fungal pathogen with worldwide distribution. Serological studies of human populations show a high prevalence of human infection, which rarely progresses to disease in immunocompetent hosts. However, decreased host immunity places individuals at high risk for cryptococcal disease. The disease can result from acute infection or reactivation of latent infection, in which yeasts within granulomas and host macrophages emerge to cause disease. In this review, we summarize what is known about the cellular recognition, ingestion, and killing of C. neoformans and discuss the unique and remarkable features of its intracellular life, including the proposed mechanisms for fungal persistence and killing in phagocytic cells.
The Multifaceted Functions of Neutrophils
Authors: Mayadas Tanya N. , Cullere Xavier , Lowell Clifford A.
Published: September 2013

Neutrophils and neutrophil-like cells are the major pathogen-fighting immune cells in organisms ranging from slime molds to mammals. Central to their function is their ability to be recruited to sites of infection, to recognize and phagocytose microbes, and then to kill pathogens through a combination of cytotoxic mechanisms. These include the production of reactive oxygen species, the release of antimicrobial peptides, and the recently discovered expulsion of their nuclear contents to form neutrophil extracellular traps. Here we discuss these primordial neutrophil functions, which also play key roles in tissue injury, by providing details of neutrophil cytotoxic functions and congenital disorders of neutrophils. In addition, we present more recent evidence that interactions between neutrophils and adaptive immune cells establish a feed-forward mechanism that amplifies pathologic inflammation. These newly appreciated contributions of neutrophils are described in the setting of several inflammatory and autoimmune diseases.
Environmental Toxins and Parkinson's Disease
Authors: Goldman Samuel M.
Published: September 2013

Parkinson's disease (PD) is a chronic, progressive, disabling neurodegenerative disorder that begins in mid to late life and is characterized by motor impairment, autonomic dysfunction, and, in many, psychological and cognitive changes. Recent advances have helped delineate pathogenetic mechanisms, yet the cause of PD in most individuals is unknown. Although at least 15 genes and genetic loci have been associated with PD, identified genetic causes are responsible for only a few percent of cases. Epidemiologic studies have found increased risk of PD associated with exposure to environmental toxicants such as pesticides, solvents, metals, and other pollutants, and many of these compounds recapitulate PD pathology in animal models. This review summarizes the environmental toxicology of PD, highlighting the consistency of observations across cellular, animal, and human studies of PD pathogenesis.
Cultural Neuroscience: Biology of the Mind in Cultural Contexts
Authors: Kim Heejung S. , Sasaki Joni Y.
Published: September 2013

This article provides a review of how cultural contexts shape and are shaped by psychological and neurobiological processes. We propose a framework that aims to culturally contextualize behavioral, genetic, neural, and physiological processes. Empirical evidence is presented to offer concrete examples of how neurobiological processes underlie social behaviors, and how these components are interconnected in larger cultural contexts. These findings provide some understanding of how the meanings shared by cultural experiences trigger a neurobiological, psychological, and behavioral chain of events, and how these events may be coordinated and maintained within a person. The review concludes with a reflection on the current state of cultural neuroscience and questions for the field to address.
Environmental Psychology Matters
Authors: Gifford Robert
Published: September 2013

Environmental psychology examines transactions between individuals and their built and natural environments. This includes investigating behaviors that inhibit or foster sustainable, climate-healthy, and nature-enhancing choices, the antecedents and correlates of those behaviors, and interventions to increase proenvironmental behavior. It also includes transactions in which nature provides restoration or inflicts stress, and transactions that are more mutual, such as the development of place attachment and identity and the impacts on and from important physical settings such as home, workplaces, schools, and public spaces. As people spend more time in virtual environments, online transactions are coming under increasing research attention. Every aspect of human existence occurs in one environment or another, and the transactions with and within them have important consequences both for people and their natural and built worlds. Environmental psychology matters.
Neurogenic and myogenic motor activity in the colon of the guinea pig, mouse, rabbit, and rat
Authors: Costa M. , Dodds K. N. , Wiklendt L. , Spencer N. J. , Brookes S. J. H. , Dinning P. G.
Published: September 2013

Gastrointestinal motility involves interactions between myogenic and neurogenic processes intrinsic to the gut wall. We have compared the presence of propagating myogenic contractions of the isolated colon in four experimental animals (guinea pig, mouse, rabbit, and rat), following blockade of enteric neural activity. Isolated colonic preparations were distended with fluid, with the anal end either closed or open. Spatiotemporal maps of changes in diameter were constructed from video recordings. Distension-induced peristaltic contractions were abolished by tetrodotoxin (TTX; 0.6 μM) in all animal species. Subsequent addition of carbachol (0.1–1 μM) did not evoke myogenic motor patterns in the mouse or guinea pig, although some activity was observed in rabbit and rat colon. These myogenic contractions propagated both orally and anally and differed from neurogenic propagating contractions in their frequency, extent of propagation, and polarity. Niflumic acid (300 μM), used to block myogenic activity, also blocked neural peristalsis and thus cannot be used to discriminate between these mechanisms. In all species, except the mouse colon, small myogenic “ripple” contractions were revealed in TTX, but in both rat and rabbit an additional, higher-frequency ripple-type contraction was superimposed. Following blockade of enteric nerve function, a muscarinic agonist can evoke propulsive myogenic peristaltic contractions in isolated rabbit and rat colon, but not in guinea pig or mouse colon. Marked differences between species exist in the ability of myogenic mechanisms to propel luminal content, but in all species there is normally a complex interplay between neurogenic and myogenic processes.
Left ventricular ejection time, not heart rate, is an independent correlate of aortic pulse wave velocity
Authors: Salvi Paolo , Palombo Carlo , Salvi Giovanni Matteo , Labat Carlos , Parati Gianfranco , Benetos Athanase
Published: September 2013

Several studies showed a positive association between heart rate and pulse wave velocity, a sensitive marker of arterial stiffness. However, no study involving a large population has specifically addressed the dependence of pulse wave velocity on different components of the cardiac cycle. The aim of this study was to explore in subjects of different age the link between pulse wave velocity with heart period (the reciprocal of heart rate) and the temporal components of the cardiac cycle such as left ventricular ejection time and diastolic time. Carotid-femoral pulse wave velocity was assessed in 3,020 untreated subjects (1,107 men). Heart period, left ventricular ejection time, diastolic time, and early-systolic dP/dt were determined by carotid pulse wave analysis with high-fidelity applanation tonometry. An inverse association was found between pulse wave velocity and left ventricular ejection time at all ages (<25 years, r2 = 0.043; 25–44 years, r2 = 0.103; 45–64 years, r2 = 0.079; 65–84 years, r2 = 0.044; ≥85 years, r2 = 0.022; P < 0.0001 for all). A significant ( P < 0.0001) negative but always weaker correlation between pulse wave velocity and heart period was also found, with the exception of the youngest subjects ( P = 0.20). A significant positive correlation was also found between pulse wave velocity and dP/dt ( P < 0.0001). With multiple stepwise regression analysis, left ventricular ejection time and dP/dt remained the only determinant of pulse wave velocity at all ages, whereas the contribution of heart period no longer became significant. Our data demonstrate that pulse wave velocity is more closely related to left ventricular systolic function than to heart period. This may have methodological and pathophysiological implications.
Left ventricular mechanics and arterial-ventricular coupling following high-intensity interval exercise
Authors: Cote Anita T. , Bredin Shannon S. D. , Phillips Aaron A. , Koehle Michael S. , Glier Melissa B. , Devlin Angela M. , Warburton Darren E. R.
Published: September 2013

High-intensity exercise induces marked physiological stress affecting the secretion of catecholamines. Sustained elevations in catecholamines are thought to desensitize cardiac beta receptors and may be a possible mechanism in impaired cardiac function following strenuous exercise. In addition, attenuated arterial-ventricular coupling may identify vascular mechanisms in connection with postexercise attenuations in ventricular function. Thirty-nine normally active (NA) and endurance-trained (ET) men and women completed an echocardiographic evaluation of left ventricular function before and after an acute bout of high-intensity interval exercise (15 bouts of 1:2 min work:recovery cycling: 100% peak power output and 50 W, respectively). Following exercise, time to peak twist and peak untwisting velocity were delayed ( P < 0.01) but did not differ by sex or training status. Interactions for sex and condition (rest vs. exercise) were found for longitudinal diastolic strain rate (men, 1.46 ± 0.19 to 1.28 ± 0.23 s−1 vs. women, 1.62 ± 0.25 to 1.63 ± 0.26 s−1; P = 0.01) and arterial elastance (men 2.20 ± 0.65 to 3.24 ± 1.02 mmHg·ml−1·m−2 vs. women 2.51 ± 0.61 to 2.93 ± 0.68 mmHg·ml−1·m−2; P = 0.04). No cardiac variables were found associated with catecholamine levels. The change in twist mechanics was associated with baseline aortic pulse-wave velocity ( r2 = 0.27, P = 0.001). We conclude that males display greater reductions in contractility in response to high-intensity interval exercise, independent of catecholamine concentrations. Furthermore, a novel association of arterial stiffness and twist mechanics following high-intensity acute exercise illustrates the influence of vascular integrity on cardiac mechanics.
Appetite regulation in overweight, sedentary men after different amounts of endurance exercise: a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Rosenkilde Mads , Reichkendler Michala Holm , Auerbach Pernille , Toräng Signe , Gram Anne Sofie , Ploug Thorkil , Holst Jens Juul , Sjödin Anders , Stallknecht Bente
Published: September 2013

Weight loss induced by endurance exercise is often disappointing, possibly due to an increase in energy intake mediated through greater appetite. The aim of this study was to evaluate fasting, postprandial, and postexercise appetite regulation after an intervention prescribing two amounts of endurance exercise. Sixty-four sedentary, overweight, healthy young men were randomized to control (CON), moderate-dose (MOD: ∼30 min/day), or high-dose (HIGH: ∼60 min/day) endurance exercise for 12 wk. Along with subjective appetite ratings, plasma ghrelin, glucagon, insulin, peptide YY3–36, glucose, free fatty acids, and glycerol were measured during fasting and in relation to a breakfast meal and an acute bout of exercise, both at baseline and at follow-up. Ad libitum lunch energy intake was evaluated 3 h after the breakfast meal. Despite different amounts of endurance exercise, the subjects lost similar amounts of fat mass (MOD: 4.2 ± 0.5 kg; HIGH: 3.7 ± 0.5 kg). Fasting and postprandial insulin decreased ∼20% in both exercise groups ( P < 0.03 vs. CON). Appetite measurements were not upregulated in the fasting and postprandial states. On the contrary, fasting and postprandial ratings of fullness and postprandial PYY3–36 increased in HIGH ( P < 0.001 vs. CON). Ad libitum lunch energy intake remained unchanged over the course of the intervention. In both exercise groups, plasma ghrelin increased in relation to acute exercise after training. Thus neither moderate nor high doses of daily endurance exercise increased fasting and postprandial measures of appetite, but a high dose of exercise was associated with an increase in fasting and meal-related ratings of fullness and satiety.
Design, Synthesis, and Acetylcholinesterase Inhibition Assay of Novel 9‐(1‐(Substituted‐benzyl)piperidin‐4‐yl)‐2‐chloro‐9H‐purin‐6‐amine Derivatives
Authors: Kang Dongwei , Song Yu′ning , Zhan Peng , Zhang Qingzhu , Liu Xinyong
Published: September 2013

A new series of 9‐(1‐(substituted‐benzyl)piperidin‐4‐yl)‐2‐chloro‐9H‐purin‐6‐amine derivatives were designed, synthesized, and characterized on the basis of 1H‐NMR, 13C‐NMR, and mass spectra. The newly synthesized compounds were evaluated for the inhibition activity against acetylcholinesterase (AChE). Biological results revealed that four compounds among them showed moderate activities against AChE with inhibitory percentage more than 10% at 100 μM. Further pharmacology investigation towards other pathological routes in AD is currently underway.
Immune Parameters in The Prognosis and Therapy Monitoring of Cutaneous Melanoma Patients: Experience, Role, and Limitations
Authors: Neagu Monica , Constantin Carolina , Zurac Sabina
Published: September 2013

Cutaneous melanoma is an immune-dependent aggressive tumour. Up to our knowledge, there are no reports regarding immune parameters monitoring in longitudinal followup of melanoma patients. We report a followup for 36 months of the immune parameters of patients diagnosed in stages I–IV. The circulatory immune parameters comprised presurgery and postsurgery immune circulating peripheral cells and circulating intercommunicating cytokines. Based on our analysis, the prototype of the intratumor inflammatory infiltrate in a melanoma with good prognosis is composed of numerous T cells CD3+, few or even absent B cells CD20+, few or absent plasma cells CD138+, and present Langerhans cells CD1a+ or langerin+. Regarding circulatory immune cells, a marker that correlates with stage is CD4+/CD8+ ratio, and its decrease clearly indicates a worse prognosis of the disease. Moreover, even in advanced stages, patients that have an increased overall survival rate prove the increase of this ratio. The decrease in the circulating B lymphocytes with stage is balanced by an increase in circulating NK cells, a phenomenon observed in stage III. Out of all the tested cytokines in the followup, IL-6 level correlated with the patient’s survival, while in our study, IL-8, IL-10, and IL-12 did not correlate statistically in a significant way with overall survival, or relapse-free survival.
Thermoelectric Properties of Al‐Doped Mesoporous ZnO Thin Films
Authors: Hong Min-Hee , Park Chang-Sun , Seo Won-Seon , Lim Young Soo , Lee Jung-Kun , Park Hyung-Ho
Published: September 2013

Al‐doped mesoporous ZnO thin films were synthesized by a sol‐gel process and an evaporation‐induced self‐assembly process. In this work, the effects of Al doping concentration on the electrical conductivity and characterization of mesoporous ZnO thin films were investigated. By changing the Al doping concentration, ZnO grain growth is inhibited, and the mesoporous structure of ZnO is maintained during a relatively high temperature annealing process. The porosity of Al‐doped mesoporous ZnO thin films increased slightly with increasing Al doping concentration. Finally, as electrical conductivity was increased as electrons were freed and pore structure was maintained by inhibiting grain growth, the thermoelectric property was enhanced with increasing Al concentration.
Existence and Uniqueness of Solution for a Class of Stochastic Differential Equations
Authors: Cao Junfei , Huang Zaitang , Zeng Caibin
Published: September 2013

A class of stochastic differential equations given by d x(t) = f(x(t)) d t + g(x(t)) d W(t),      x(t0) = x0,      t0 ≤ t ≤ T < +∞, are investigated. Upon making some suitable assumptions, the existence and uniqueness of solution for the equations are obtained. Moreover, the existence and uniqueness of solution
for stochastic Lorenz system, which is illustrated by example, are in good agreement with the theoretical analysis.
Microbiological Effect of Essential Oils in Combination with Subgingival Ultrasonic Instrumentation and Mouth Rinsing in Chronic Periodontitis Patients
Authors: Morozumi Toshiya , Kubota Takehiko , Abe Daisuke , Shimizu Taro , Nohno Kaname , Yoshie Hiromasa
Published: September 2013

Thirty chronic periodontitis patients were randomly assigned to 3 groups: control, saline, and essential oil-containing antiseptic (EO). Subgingival plaque was collected from a total of 90 pockets across all subjects. Subsequently, subgingival ultrasonic instrumentation (SUI) was performed by using EO or saline as the irrigation agent. After continuous mouth rinsing at home with EO or saline for 7 days, subgingival plaques were sampled again. Periodontopathic bacteria were quantified using the modified Invader PLUS assay. The total bacterial count in shallow pockets (probing pocket depth (PPD) = 4-5 mm) was significantly reduced in both saline (P<0.05) and EO groups (P<0.01). The total bacterial count (P<0.05) andPorphyromonas gingivalis(P<0.01) andTannerella forsythia(P<0.05) count in deep pockets (PPD≥6 mm) were significantly reduced only in the EO group. In comparisons of the change ratio relative to baseline value of total bacteria counts across categories, both the saline and EO groups for PPD 4-5 mm and the EO group for PPD 6 mm showed a significantly low ratio (P<0.05). The adjunctive use of EO may be effective in reducing subgingival bacterial counts in both shallow and deep pockets. This trial is registered with UMIN Clinical Trials RegistryUMIN000007484.
Invariant Solutions for Nonhomogeneous Discrete Diffusion Equation
Authors: Qureshi M. N. , Khan A. Q. , Ayub M. , Din Q.
Published: September 2013

One-dimensional optimal systems for nonhomogeneous discrete heat equation with different source terms are calculated. By utilizing these optimal systems invariant solutions are found. Also generating solutions are calculated, using the elements of the symmetry algebra.
Potential and Quantum Threshold Voltage Modeling of Gate-All-Around Nanowire MOSFETs
Authors: Pandian M. Karthigai , Balamurugan N. B. , Pricilla A.
Published: September 2013

An improved physics-based compact model for a symmetrically biased gate-all-around (GAA) silicon nanowire transistor is proposed. Short channel effects and quantum mechanical effects caused by the ultrathin silicon devices are considered in modelling the threshold voltage. Device geometrics play a very important role in multigate devices, and hence their impact on the threshold voltage is also analyzed by varying the height and width of silicon channel. The inversion charge and electrical potential distribution along the channel are expressed in their closed forms. The proposed model shows excellent accuracy with TCAD simulations of the device in the weak inversion regime.
Dependence Properties of Sol-Gel Derived CuO@SiO2 Nanostructure to Diverse Concentrations of Copper Oxide
Authors: Homaunmir V. , Tohidi S. H. , Grigorya G. , Zada Shirazi M. Ayatollah
Published: September 2013

Various concentrations of copper oxide were embedded into silica matrix of xerogel forms using copper source Cu(NO3)2·3H2O. The xerogel samples were prepared by hydrolysis and condensation of tetraethyl orthosilicate (TEOS) with determination of new molar ratios of the components by the sol-gel method. In this paper, three samples of copper oxide were doped into silica matrices using different concentrations. We obtained 10, 20, and 30 wt.% of copper oxide in silica matrices labeled as A, B, and C, respectively. The absorption and transmittance spectra of the gel matrices were treated at different concentrations by Uv-vis spectrophotometer. Quantities of water and transparency in the silica network change the spectral characteristics of Cu2+ ions in the host silica. Absorption spectra of the samples heated to higher concentration complete the conversion of Cu2+ ions to Cu+ ions. The effects of concentration of copper oxide were characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD) patterns, and the transmission electron microscope (TEM) micrographs. Also, textural properties of samples were studied by surface area analysis (BET method) at different concentrations.
Paeonol, a Major Compound of Moutan Cortex, Attenuates Cisplatin-Induced Nephrotoxicity in Mice
Authors: Lee Hyojung , Lee Gihyun , Kim Hyunseong , Bae Hyunsu
Published: September 2013

Cisplatin is an effective chemotherapeutic agent that is used for the treatment of a variety of cancers; however, its nephrotoxicity limits the use of this drug. In the present study, we examined whether paeonol, a major compound of Moutan Cortex, has protective effects on cisplatin-induced acute renal failure in mice. To accomplish this, Balb/c mice (6 to 8 wk of age, weighing 20 to 25 g) were administered, Moutan Cortex (300 mg/kg) or paeonol (20 mg/kg) once a day. At day 4, mice received cisplatin (30, 20, or 10 mg/kg) intraperitoneally. The paeonol-treated group showed marked attenuation of serum creatine and blood urea nitrogen levels as well as reduced levels of proinflammatory cytokines and nitric oxide when compared to the control group. In addition, the paeonol-treated group showed prolonged survival and marked attenuation of renal tissue injury. Taken together, these results demonstrated that paeonol can prevent the renal toxic effects of cisplatin.
Factors Influencing Positive Birth Experiences of First-Time Mothers
Authors: Nilsson Lena , Thorsell Tina , Hertfelt Wahn Elisabeth , Ekström Anette
Published: September 2013

Objectives. The objective of this study was to describe first-time mothers’ experiences and reflections of their first birth.Study Design. This study is a part of a larger study which was carried out in southwestern Sweden in 2008. A qualitative method with content analysis was chosen for this study. The unit of data was 14 written narratives from the first-time mothers.Results. The theme “To be empowered increases first-time mothers’ chances for a positive birth experience” crossed over into all the three categories: “To trust the body and to face the pain,” “Interaction between body and mind in giving birth,” and “Consistency of support.”Conclusion. In order to feel confident in their first childbirth, the women wanted to be confirmed and seen as unique individuals by the professionals and their partner. If professionals responded to the individual woman’s needs of support, the woman more often had a positive birth experience, even if the birth was protracted or with medical complications.
Incidence of Retinal Detachment after Fellow-Performed Primary Pars Plana Vitrectomy
Authors: Wilkinson Justin T. , Richards Amanda B. , Choi Dongseok , Robertson Joseph E. , Flaxel Christina J.
Published: September 2013

Background. Primary pars plana vitrectomy (PPV) is often performed by vitreoretinal fellows. We aimed to evaluate the incidence of retinal breaks and detachments (RD) after fellow-performed PPV.
Methods. We reviewed 119 consecutive cases of standard 3-port primary PPVs on 115 patients at a teaching institution from 2003 to 2006. In all cases, the primary surgeon was a vitreoretinal fellow. Patients with previous RD were excluded. Cases were reviewed for postoperative retinal detachments, and all patients were followed for up to 1 year.
Results. Intraoperative retinal breaks occurred in 5 of 119 eyes (4.2%). One break was associated with sclerotomy and 4 were not. Postoperative RD occurred in 8 of 119 eyes (6.7%). Two RDs were sclerotomy related, 5 were not, and 1 was of indeterminate origin.
Conclusions. Incidence of retinal breaks and RD following primary PPV by vitreoretinal fellows is low and comparable to that of fellowship-trained surgeons.
Two Interacting Coordinate Hopf Algebras of Affine Groups of Formal Series on a Category
Authors: Poinsot Laurent
Published: September 2013

A locally finite category is defined as a category in which every arrow admits only finitely many
different ways to be factorized by composable arrows. The large algebra of such categories over
some fields may be defined, and with it a group of invertible series (under multiplication). For
certain particular locally finite categories, a substitution operation, generalizing the usual substitution
of formal power series, may be defined, and with it a group of reversible series (invertible
under substitution). Moreover, both groups are actually affine groups. In this contribution, we
introduce their coordinate Hopf algebras which are both free as commutative algebras. The
semidirect product structure obtained from the action of reversible series on invertible series by
anti-automorphisms gives rise to an interaction at the level of their coordinate Hopf algebras
under the form of a smash coproduct.
Corni Fructus Containing Formulation Attenuates Weight Gain in Mice with Diet-Induced Obesity and Regulates Adipogenesis through AMPK
Authors: Kim Hye-Lin , Jeon Yong-Deok , Park Jinbong , Rim Hong-Kun , Jeong Mi-Young , Lim Hara , Ko Seong-Gyu , Jang Hyeung-Jin , Lee Byung-Cheol , Lee Kyung-Tae , Lee Kang-Min , Lee Hyejung , Kim Sung-Hoon , Kim Su-Jin , Hong Seung-Heon , Um Jae-Young
Published: September 2013

Obesity is a metabolic disorder characterized by chronic inflammation and dyslipidemia and is a strong predictor for the development of hypertension, diabetes mellitus, and cardiovascular disease. This study examined the antiobesity effect of an ethanol extract of Corni Fructus containing formulation (CDAP), which is a combination of four natural components: Corni Fructus, Dioscoreae Rhizoma, Aurantii Fructus Immaturus, and Platycodonis Radix. The cellular lipid content in 3T3-L1 adipocytes was assessed by Oil Red O staining. Expressions of peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-γ(PPAR-γ), CCAAT/enhancer-binding protein-α(C/EBP-α), and lipin-1 were determined by real-time RT-PCR. Western blot was used to determine the protein levels of PPAR-γ, C/EBP-α, and AMP-activated protein kinase-α(AMPK-α). The CDAP extract suppressed the differentiation of 3T3-L1 adipocytes by downregulating cellular induction of PPAR-γ, C/EBP-α, and lipin-1. The CDAP extract also significantly upregulated phosphorylation of AMPK-α. Anin vivostudy showed that CDAP induced weight loss in mice with high-fat-diet-induced obesity. These results indicate that CDAP has a potent anti-obesity effect due to the inhibition of adipocyte differentiation and adipogenesis.
Association between Salt Intake and Albuminuria in Normotensive and Hypertensive Individuals
Authors: Khaledifar Arsalan , Gharipour Mojagn , Bahonar Ahmad , Sarrafzadegan Nizal , Khosravi Alireza
Published: September 2013

Background. There is a little published data regarding the association between salt intake and albuminuria as an important alarm for progression of cardiovascular and renal dysfunction. We aimed to assess this relationship to emphasize the major role of restricting salt intake to minimize albuminuria and prevent these life-threatening events.Methods. The study population comprised 820 individuals. Participants were assigned to groups as follows: normal albuminuria, slight albuminuria, and clinical albuminuria. Daily salt intake was assessed on the basis of 24-hour urinary sodium excretion, since urinary sodium excretion largely equals sodium intake.Results. In normotensive participants, the mean level of urine albumin was higher in those who had higher amounts of salt intake with a significantly upward trend (the mean urinary albumin level in low-salt-diet group, in medium-salt-intake group, and in high-salt-intake group was42.70±36.42,46.89±38.91, and53.38±48.23, resp., (P=0.017)). There was a significant positive correlation between 24-hour urinary sodium secretion and the level of urine albumin (beta = 0.130,P<0.001). The amount of salt intake was significantly associated with urine albumin concentration (beta = 3.969, SE = 1.671,P=0.018).Conclusion. High salt intake was shown to be associated with higher level of microalbuminuria even adjusted for potential underlying risk factors.
Prehospital Emergency Ultrasound: A Review of Current Clinical Applications, Challenges, and Future Implications
Authors: El Sayed Mazen J. , Zaghrini Elie
Published: September 2013

Imaging modalities in the prehospital setting are helpful in the evaluation and management of time-sensitive emergency conditions. Ultrasound is the main modality that has been applied by emergency medical services (EMS) providers in the field. This paper examines the clinical applications of ultrasound in the prehospital setting. Specific focus is on applications that provide essential information to guide triage and management of critical patients. Challenges of this modality are also described in terms of cost impact on EMS agencies, provider training, and skill maintenance in addition to challenges related to the technical aspect of ultrasound.
Linear Sensing Response to Ethanol by Indium Oxide Nanoparticle Layers
Authors: Singh Vidya N. , Partheepan Ganesan
Published: September 2013

Indium oxide nanoparticles having well-defined particle sizes were synthesized using a chemical capping method. These nanoparticles were used for making the nanoparticle layers without altering the size and morphology of these particles. These nanoparticles and nanoparticle layers were characterized using XRD, TEM, HRTEM and AFM. The ethanol sensing behavior of the nanoparticle layers were studied at different ethanol concentrations. It was observed that the sensor response was linear to the ethanol concentration in the range of 10–1000 ppm. The ethanol sensing behavior has been explained on the basis of the creation of a depletion region due to the adsorbed oxygen and release of the electron in the conduction band in the presence of ethanol (as it takes away the adsorbed oxygen). The explanation has been supported by EDAX results.
A Clinical-EEG Study of Sleepiness and Psychological Symptoms in Pharmacoresistant Epilepsy Patients Treated with Lacosamide
Authors: Giorgi Filippo S. , Pizzanelli Chiara , Pelliccia Veronica , Di Coscio Elisa , Maestri Michelangelo , Guida Melania , Iacopini Elena , Iudice Alfonso , Bonanni Enrica
Published: September 2013

Our aim was to evaluate the EEG and clinical modifications induced by the new antiepileptic drug lacosamide (LCM) in patients with epilepsy. We evaluated 10 patients affected by focal pharmacoresistant epilepsy in which LCM (mean 250 mg/day) was added to the preexisting antiepileptic therapy, which was left unmodified. Morning waking EEG recording was performed before (t0) and at 6 months (t1) after starting LCM. Att0 andt1, patients were also administered questionnaires evaluating mood, anxiety, sleep, sleepiness, and fatigue (Beck Depression Inventory; State-Trait Anxiety Inventory Y1 and Y2; Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index; Epworth Sleepiness Scale; Fatigue Severity Scale). We performed a quantitative analysis of EEG interictal abnormalities and background EEG power spectrum analysis. LCM as an add-on did not significantly affect anxiety, depression, sleepiness, sleep quality, and fatigue scales. Similarly, adding LCM to preexisting therapy did not modify significantly patient EEGs in terms of absolute power, relative power, mean frequency, and interictal abnormalities occurrence. In conclusion, in this small cohort of patients, we confirmed that LCM as an add-on does not affect subjective parameters which play a role, among others, in therapy tolerability, and our clinical impression was further supported by evaluation of EEG spectral analysis.
Potential Toxic Levels of Cyanide in Almonds (Prunus amygdalus), Apricot Kernels (Prunus armeniaca), and Almond Syrup
Authors: Chaouali Nadia , Gana Ines , Dorra Amira , Khelifi Fathia , Nouioui Anouer , Masri Wafa , Belwaer Ines , Ghorbel Hayet , Hedhili Abderazzek
Published: September 2013

Under normal environmental conditions, many plants synthesize cyanogenic glycosides, which are able to release hydrogen cyanide upon hydrolysis. Each year, there are frequent livestock and occasional human victims of cyanogenic plants consumption. The present work aims to determine the hydrocyanic acid content in different samples of cyanogenic plants, selected from the Tunisian flora, and in the almond syrup. In order to evaluate their toxicity and their impact on the consumer health in the short term as well as in the long term, using the ISO 2164-1975 NT standard, relating to the determination of cyanogenic heterosides in leguminous plants.
On the Attractor of the Product System
Authors: Huang Guifeng , Wang Lidong
Published: September 2013

We investigate the attractor of the product system and mainly prove
that the likely limit set of the product system equals the product of
one of each factor system for n compact systems with solenoid
attractors. Specially, this holds for the product map of Feigenbaum
maps. Furthermore, we deduce that the Hausdorff dimension of the
likely limit set of the product map for Feigenbaum maps is the sum
of one of each factor map.
Submicron Features in Higher Manganese Silicide
Authors: Sadia Yatir , Elegrably Mor , Ben-Nun Oren , Marciano Yossi , Gelbstein Yaniv
Published: September 2013

The world energy crisis had increased the demand for alternative energy sources and as such is one of the topics at the forefront of research. One way for reducing energy consumption is by thermoelectricity. Thermoelectric effects enable direct conversion of thermal into electrical energy. Higher manganese silicide (HMS, MnSi1.75) is one of the promising materials for applications in the field of thermoelectricity. The abundance and low cost of the elements, combined with good thermoelectric properties and high mechanical and chemical stability at high temperatures, make it very attractive for thermoelectric applications. Recent studies have shown that Si‐rich HMS has improved thermoelectric properties. The most interesting of which is the unusual reduction in thermal conductivity. In the current research, transmission (TEM) and scanning (SEM) electron microscopy as well as X‐ray diffraction methods were applied for investigation of the govern mechanisms resulting in very low thermal conductivity values of an Si‐rich HMS composition, following arc melting and hot‐pressing procedures. In this paper, it is shown that there is a presence of sub‐micron dislocations walls, stacking faults, and silicon and HMS precipitates inside each other apparent in the matrix, following a high temperature (0.9 Tm) hot pressing for an hour. These are not just responsible for the low thermal conductivity values observed but also indicate the ability to create complicate nano‐structures that will last during the production process and possibly during the application.
A Sub-A Ultrasonic Wake-Up Trigger with Addressing Capability for Wireless Sensor Nodes
Authors: Lattanzi Emanuele , Dromedari Matteo , Freschi Valerio , Bogliolo Alessandro
Published: September 2013

Wireless sensor nodes spend most of the time waiting either for sensed data or for packets to be routed to the sink. While on board, sensors can raise hardware interrupts to trigger the wake-up of the processor, incoming packets require the radio module to be turned on in order to be properly received and processed; thus, reducing the effectiveness of dynamic power management and exposing the node to unintended packets cause energy waste. The capability of triggering the wake-up of a node over the air would makes it possible to keep the entire network asleep and to wake up the nodes along a path to the sink whenever there is a packet to transmit. This paper presents an ultrasonic wake-up trigger for ultra-low-power wireless sensor nodes developed as a plug-in module for VirtualSense motes. The module supports a simple out-of-band addressing scheme to enable the selective wake-up of a target node. In addition, it makes it possible to exploit the propagation speed of ultrasonic signals to perform distance measurements. The paper outlines the design choices, reports the results of extensive measurements, and discusses the additional degrees of freedom introduced by ultrasonic triggering in the power-state diagram of VirtualSense.
Advanced Systems Biology Methods in Drug Discovery and Translational Biomedicine
Authors: Zou Jun , Zheng Ming-Wu , Li Gen , Su Zhi-Guang
Published: September 2013

Systems biology is in an exponential development stage in recent years and has been widely utilized in biomedicine to better understand the molecular basis of human disease and the mechanism of drug action. Here, we discuss the fundamental concept of systems biology and its two computational methods that have been commonly used, that is, network analysis and dynamical modeling. The applications of systems biology in elucidating human disease are highlighted, consisting of human disease networks, treatment response prediction, investigation of disease mechanisms, and disease-associated gene prediction. In addition, important advances in drug discovery, to which systems biology makes significant contributions, are discussed, including drug-target networks, prediction of drug-target interactions, investigation of drug adverse effects, drug repositioning, and drug combination prediction. The systems biology methods and applications covered in this review provide a framework for addressing disease mechanism and approaching drug discovery, which will facilitate the translation of research findings into clinical benefits such as novel biomarkers and promising therapies.
Density Dependence of the Macroscale Superelastic Behavior of Porous Shape Memory Alloys: A Two-Dimensional Approach
Authors: Maîtrejean Guillaume , Terriault Patrick , Brailovski Vladimir
Published: September 2013

Porous Shape Memory Alloys (SMAs) are of particular interest for many industrial applications, as they combine intrinsic SMA (shape memory effect and superelasticity) and foam characteristics. The computational cost of direct porous material modeling is however extremely high, and so designing porous SMA structure poses a considerable challenge. In this study, an attempt is made to simulate the superelastic behavior of porous materials via the modeling of fully dense structures with material properties modified using a porous/bulk density ratio scaling relation. Using this approach, direct modeling of the porous microstructure is avoided, and only the macroscale response of the model is considered which contributes to a drastic reduction of the computational cost. Foam structures with a gradient of porosity are also studied, and the prediction made using the fully dense material model is shown to be in agreement with the mesoscale porous material model.
Universal Dynamical Control of Open Quantum Systems
Authors: Kurizki Gershon
Published: September 2013

Due to increasing demands on speed and security of data
processing, along with requirements on measurement precision
in fundamental research, quantum phenomena are expected to
play an increasing role in future technologies. Special attention
must hence be paid to omnipresent decoherence effects,
which hamper quantumness. Their consequence is always a
deviation of the quantum state evolution (error) with respect
to the expected unitary evolution if these effects are absent. In operational tasks such as the preparation, transformation,
transmission, and detection of quantum states, these effects
are detrimental and must be suppressed by strategies known as
dynamical decoupling, or the more general dynamical control
by modulation developed by us. The underlying dynamics must
be Zeno-like, yielding suppressed coupling to the bath. There are, however, tasks which cannot be implemented by
unitary evolution, in particular those involving a change of
the system’s state entropy. Such tasks necessitate efficient
coupling to a bath for their implementation. Examples include
the use of measurements to cool (purify) a system, to equilibrate
it, or to harvest and convert energy from the environment. If the underlying dynamics is anti-Zeno like, enhancement of
this coupling to the bath will occur and thereby facilitate the
task, as discovered by us. A general task may also require state and energy transfer,
or entanglement of noninteracting parties via shared modes
of the bath which call for maximizing the shared (two-partite)
couplings with the bath, but suppressing the single-partite couplings. For such tasks, a more subtle interplay of Zeno and
anti-Zeno dynamics may be optimal. We have therefore constructed a general framework for optimizing
the way a system interacts with its environment to
achieve a desired task. This optimization consists in adjusting
a given “score” that quantifies the success of the task, such as
the targeted fidelity, purity, entropy, entanglement, or energy
by dynamical modification of the system-bath coupling spectrum
on demand.
Digital Rectal Examination Standardization for Inexperienced Hands: Teaching Medical Students
Authors: Reis Leonardo Oliveira , Simão Antonio Felipe Leite , Baracat Jamal , Denardi Fernandes , Gugliotta Antonio
Published: September 2013

Objectives.To standardize digital rectal examination (DRE) and set how it correlates with the comprehensive evaluation of lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS).Methods.After scaled standardization of DRE based on fingertips graphical schema: 10 cubic centimeters—cc for each fingertip prostate surface area on DRE, four randomly selected senior medical students examined 48 male patients presenting with LUTS in an outpatient clinical setting, totaling 12 DRE each. Standardized DRE, international prostate symptom score (IPSS), serum PSA, transabdominal ultrasound (US), urodynamic evaluation, and postvoid residue were compared.Results.The mean and median PVs were US—45 and 34.7 cc (5.5 to 155) and DRE—39 and 37.5 cc (15 to 80). Comparing DRE and US by simple linear regression: US PV = 11.93 + 0.85 × (DRE PV);P=0.0009. Among patients classified as nonobstructed, inconclusive, and obstructed, the US PVs were 29.8, 43.2, and 53.6 cc (P=0.033), and DRE PVs were 20, 35, and 60 cc (P=0.026), respectively.Conclusion.This is the first attempt to DRE standardization focusing on teaching-learning process, establishing a linear correlation of DRE and US PVs with only 12 examinations by inexperienced hands, satisfactorily validated in an outpatient clinical setting.
Series Solution for Steady Heat Transfer in a Heat-Generating Fin with Convection and Radiation
Authors: Mabood Fazle , Khan Waqar A. , Md Ismail Ahmad Izani
Published: September 2013

The steady heat transfer in a heat-generating fin with simultaneous surface convection and radiation is studied analytically using optimal homotopy asymptotic method (OHAM). The steady response of the fin depends on the convection-conduction parameter, radiation-conduction parameter, heat generation parameter, and dimensionless sink temperature. The heat transfer problem is modeled using two-point boundary value conditions. The results of the dimensionless temperature profile for different values of convection-conduction, radiation-conduction, heat generation, and sink temperature parameters are presented graphically and in tabular form. Comparison of the solution using OHAM with homotopy analysis method (HAM) andRunge-Kutta-Fehlberg fourth-fifth-ordernumerical method for various values of controlling parameters is presented. The comparison shows that the OHAM results are in excellent agreement with NM.
Postoperative Venous Thromboembolism Prophylaxis by General Surgeons in a Developing Country: A Survey
Authors: Venkataram Aniketh , Santhosh Shivashankar , Dinakar Deevish , Siddappa Shivananda , Babu Rajashekara , Shivaswamy Sadashivaiah
Published: September 2013

Venous thromboembolism (VTE) is the most common preventable cause of hospital death. Several audits in the west have demonstrated that appropriate thromboprophylaxis is not being offered to a large number of surgical patients. Similar audits are lacking in the Indian population, and a perception exists among Indian surgeons that Indian patients are not susceptible to VTE. Hence we undertook a survey to analyze the existing knowledge and practice of VTE prophylaxis amongst general surgeons in India. A questionnaire-based survey was conducted on 100 active general surgeons. We found that 97% of surgeons had encountered VTE in their practice, and 49% had encountered mortality from pulmonary embolism. 64% of surgeons do not routinely score patients preoperatively for their VTE risk, and only 33% reported the presence of an institute-based protocol for the same. There was a wide disparity in the prophylaxis methods used for each risk group, particularly in the moderate-risk group. These findings suggest the need for adoption of institute-based protocols for prophylaxis and the evolution of Indian guidelines for VTE prophylaxis.
Core‐Shell Structure in Doped Inorganic Nanoparticles: Approaches for Optimizing Luminescence Properties
Authors: Xie Dini , Peng Hongshang , Huang Shihua , You Fangtian
Published: September 2013

Doped inorganic luminescent nanoparticles (NPs) have been widely used in both research and application fields due to their distinctive properties. However, there is an urgent demand to improve their luminescence efficiency, which is greatly reduced by surface effects. In this paper, we review recent advances in optimizing luminescence properties of doped NPs based on core‐shell structure, which are basically classified into two categories: one is by use of surface coating with nonmetal materials to weaken the influence of surface effect and the other is with metal shell via metal enhanced luminescence. Different materials used to coat NPs are surveyed, and their advantages and disadvantages are both commented on. Moreover, problems in current core‐shell structured luminescent NPs are pointed out and strategies furthering the optimization of luminescence properties are suggested.
Design of UWB Monopole Antenna with Dual Notched Bands Using One Modified Electromagnetic‐Bandgap Structure
Authors: Liu Hao , Xu Ziqiang
Published: September 2013

A modified electromagnetic‐bandgap (M‐EBG) structure and its application to planar monopole ultra‐wideband (UWB) antenna are presented. The proposed M‐EBG which comprises two strip patch and an edge‐located via can perform dual notched bands. By properly designing and placing strip patch near the feedline, the proposed M‐EBG not only possesses a simple structure and compact size but also exhibits good band rejection. Moreover, it is easy to tune the dual notched bands by altering the dimensions of the M‐EBG. A demonstration antenna with dual band‐notched characteristics is designed and fabricated to validate the proposed method. The results show that the proposed antenna can satisfy the requirements of VSWR < 2 over UWB 3.1–10.6 GHz, except for the rejected bands of the world interoperability for microwave access (WiMAX) and the wireless local area network (WLAN) at 3.5 GHz and 5.5 GHz, respectively.