bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Myostatin is a key mediator between energy metabolism and endurance capacity of skeletal muscle
Authors: Mouisel Etienne , Relizani Karima , Mille-Hamard Laurence , Denis Raphaël , Hourdé Christophe , Agbulut Onnik , Patel Ketan , Arandel Ludovic , Morales-Gonzalez Susanne , Vignaud Alban , Garcia Luis , Ferry Arnaud , Luquet Serge , Billat Véronique , Ventura-Clapier Renée , Schuelke Markus , Amthor Helge
Published: June 2014

Myostatin (Mstn) participates in the regulation of skeletal muscle size and has emerged as a regulator of muscle metabolism. Here, we hypothesized that lack of myostatin profoundly depresses oxidative phosphorylation-dependent muscle function. Toward this end, we explored Mstn −/− mice as a model for the constitutive absence of myostatin and AAV-mediated overexpression of myostatin propeptide as a model of myostatin blockade in adult wild-type mice. We show that muscles from Mstn −/− mice, although larger and stronger, fatigue extremely rapidly. Myostatin deficiency shifts muscle from aerobic toward anaerobic energy metabolism, as evidenced by decreased mitochondrial respiration, reduced expression of PPAR transcriptional regulators, increased enolase activity, and exercise-induced lactic acidosis. As a consequence, constitutively reduced myostatin signaling diminishes exercise capacity, while the hypermuscular state of Mstn−/− mice increases oxygen consumption and the energy cost of running. We wondered whether these results are the mere consequence of the congenital fiber-type switch toward a glycolytic phenotype of constitutive Mstn −/− mice. Hence, we overexpressed myostatin propeptide in adult mice, which did not affect fiber-type distribution, while nonetheless causing increased muscle fatigability, diminished exercise capacity, and decreased Pparb/d and Pgc1a expression. In conclusion, our results suggest that myostatin endows skeletal muscle with high oxidative capacity and low fatigability, thus regulating the delicate balance between muscle mass, muscle force, energy metabolism, and endurance capacity.
Afferent and motoneuron activity in response to single neuromast stimulation in the posterior lateral line of larval zebrafish
Authors: Haehnel-Taguchi Melanie , Akanyeti Otar , Liao James C.
Published: June 2014

The lateral line system of fishes contains mechanosensory receptors along the body surface called neuromasts, which can detect water motion relative to the body. The ability to sense flow informs many behaviors, such as schooling, predator avoidance, and rheotaxis. Here, we developed a new approach to stimulate individual neuromasts while either recording primary sensory afferent neuron activity or swimming motoneuron activity in larval zebrafish ( Danio rerio). Our results allowed us to characterize the transfer functions between a controlled lateral line stimulus, its representation by primary sensory neurons, and its subsequent behavioral output. When we deflected the cupula of a neuromast with a ramp command, we found that the connected afferent neuron exhibited an adapting response which was proportional in strength to deflection velocity. The maximum spike rate of afferent neurons increased sigmoidally with deflection velocity, with a linear range between 0.1 and 1.0 μm/ms. However, spike rate did not change when the cupula was deflected below 8 μm, regardless of deflection velocity. Our findings also reveal an unexpected sensitivity in the larval lateral line system: stimulation of a single neuromast could elicit a swimming response which increased in reliability with increasing deflection velocities. At high deflection velocities, we observed that lateral line evoked swimming has intermediate values of burst frequency and duty cycle that fall between electrically evoked and spontaneous swimming. An understanding of the sensory capabilities of a single neuromast will help to build a better picture of how stimuli are encoded at the systems level and ultimately translated into behavior.
Temperature systematically modifies neural activity for sweet taste
Authors: Wilson David M. , Lemon Christian H.
Published: June 2014

Temperature can modify neural and behavioral responses to taste stimuli that elicit “sweetness,” a perception linked to intake of calorie-laden foods. However, the role of temperature in the neural representation of sweet taste is poorly understood. Here we made electrophysiological recordings from gustatory neurons in the medulla of inbred mice to study how adjustments in taste solution temperature to cool (18°C), ambient (22°C), and warm (30°C and 37°C) values changed the magnitude and latency of gustatory activity to sucrose (0, 0.05, 0.1, 0.17, 0.31, and 0.56 M). Analysis of 22 sucrose-best neurons revealed that temperature markedly influenced responses to sucrose, which, across concentrations, were largest when solutions were warmed to 30°C. However, reducing solution temperature from warm to ambient to cool progressively steepened the slope of the sucrose concentration-response function computed across cells ( P < 0.05), indicating that mean activity to sucrose increased more rapidly with concentration steps under cooling than with warming. Thus the slope of the sucrose concentration-response function shows an inverse relation with temperature. Temperature also influenced latency to the first spike of the sucrose response. Across neurons, latencies were shorter when sucrose solutions were warmed and longer, by hundreds of milliseconds, when solutions were cooled ( P < 0.05), indicating that temperature is also a temporal parameter of sucrose activity. Our findings reveal that temperature systematically modifies the timing of gustatory activity to sucrose in the mammalian brain and how this activity changes with concentration. Results further highlight how oral somatosensory cues function as physiological modulators of gustatory processing.
Movement strategies for maintaining standing balance during arm tracking in people with multiple sclerosis
Authors: Chua Matthew C. , Hyngstrom Allison S. , Ng Alexander V. , Schmit Brian D.
Published: June 2014

The purpose of this study was to quantify hip and ankle movement strategies during a standing arm tracking task in people with multiple sclerosis (MS). Full-body kinematics and kinetics were assessed with motion analysis cameras and force plates in nine MS and nine age-matched control subjects. While standing, participants used their dominant hand to track a target moving around a large horizontal or vertical figure eight on a screen in front of them. The target moved at constant speed, or linearly increasing speeds, with a frequency between 0.05 Hz and 0.35 Hz. Hip and ankle moments and angles during tracking were calculated from kinematic and kinetic measurements. Ratios of peak-to-peak (PP) hip/ankle moments (kinetics) and angles (kinematics) were calculated to determine the strategies of the hips and ankles used to maintain balance during arm movements. Center of mass (CoM) root mean square (RMS) acceleration was calculated as a measure of overall balance performance. The MS group produced larger PP hip/ankle moments at all speeds compared with the control group ( P < 0.05). The CoM RMS acceleration increased with tracking speed for both groups but was not significantly different between groups. Additionally, the ratios of hip to ankle moments were highly correlated with the Berg Balance Scale during horizontal steady-speed tracking in MS. These results suggest that people with MS increase the use of the hip during standing arm tracking compared with age-matched control subjects. This adapted strategy might allow people with MS to achieve balance performance similar to control subjects, possibly increasing the importance of the hip in maintaining balance during voluntary movements.
Surgical Management of Ascending Aortic Aneurysm and Its Complications
Authors: Sran Sisira , Sran Manpreet , Ferguson Nicole , Makaryus Amgad N.
Published: June 2014

Ascending aortic aneurysms involving the proximal aortic arch, arising anywhere from the aortic valve to the innominate artery, represent various problems in which open surgery is generally required. Surgical options include excision of the aortic pathology or wrapping the aneurysm shell with an aortic Dacron graft. Intervention using the latter method can lead to extravasation of blood along the suture lines resulting in continuous bleeding within the periprosthetic space. The Cabrol technique was developed as a method for decompression of postoperative leaks by the formation of a conduit system from the periprosthetic space to the right atrium. The coronary ostia are anastomosed to a second graft in an end-to-end fashion, which is then anastomosed to the ascending aortic conduit side to side. The native aorta is then sewn around the prosthesis, hereby creating a shunt to drain anastomotic leakage. This shunt reduces postsurgical risk of pseudoaneurysm formation and normally closes a few days following surgery. We discuss the case of a patient who underwent Cabrol’s variation and six months later was demonstrated to have a patent shunt.
Electrochemical Deposition of Platinum and Palladium on Gold Nanoparticles Loaded Carbon Nanotube Support for Oxidation Reactions in Fuel Cell
Authors: Saipanya Surin , Lapanantnoppakhun Somchai , Sarakonsri Thapanee
Published: June 2014

Pt and Pd sequentially electrodeposited Au nanoparticles loaded carbon nanotube (Au-CNT) was prepared for the electrocatalytic study of methanol, ethanol, and formic acid oxidations. All electrochemical measurements were carried out in a three-electrode cell. A platinum wire and Ag/AgCl were used as auxiliary and reference electrodes, respectively. Suspension of the Au-CNT, phosphate buffer, isopropanol, and Nafion was mixed and dropped on glassy carbon as a working electrode. By sequential deposition method, PdPtPt/Au-CNT, PtPdPd/Au-CNT, and PtPdPt/Au-CNT catalysts were prepared. Cyclic voltammograms (CVs) of those catalysts in 1 M H2SO4solution showed hydrogen adsorption and hydrogen desorption reactions. CV responses for those three catalysts in methanol, ethanol, and formic acid electrooxidations studied in 2 M CH3OH, CH3CH2OH, and HCOOH in 1 M H2SO4show characteristic oxidation peaks. The oxidation peaks at anodic scan contribute to those organic substance oxidations while the peaks at cathodic scan are related with the reoxidation of the adsorbed carbonaceous species. Comparing all those three catalysts, it can be found that the PdPtPt/Au-CNT catalyst is good at methanol oxidation; the PtPdPt/Au-CNT effectively enhances ethanol oxidation while the PtPdPd/Au-CNT exceptionally catalyzes formic acid oxidation. Therefore, a different stoichiometry affects the electrochemical active surface area of the catalysts to achieve the catalytic oxidation reactions.
Nickel Alloy Catalysts for the Anode of a High Temperature PEM Direct Propane Fuel Cell
Authors: Vafaeyan Shadi , St-Amant Alain , Ternan Marten
Published: June 2014

High temperature polymer electrode membrane fuel cells that use hydrocarbon as the fuel have many theoretical advantages over those that use hydrogen. For example, nonprecious metal catalysts can replace platinum. In this work, two of the four propane fuel cell reactions, propane dehydrogenation and water dissociation, were examined using nickel alloy catalysts. The adsorption energies of both propane and water decreased as the Fe content of Ni/Fe alloys increased. In contrast, they both increased as the Cu content of Ni/Cu alloys increased. The activation energy for the dehydrogenation of propane (a nonpolar molecule) changed very little, even though the adsorption energy changed substantially as a function of alloy composition. In contrast, the activation energy for dissociation of water (a molecule that can be polarized) decreased markedly as the energy of adsorption decreased. The different relationship between activation energy and adsorption energy for propane dehydrogenation and water dissociation alloys was attributed to propane being a nonpolar molecule and water being a molecule that can be polarized.
Molecular Mechanisms of Curcumin on Diabetes-Induced Endothelial Dysfunctions: Txnip, ICAM-1, and NOX2 Expressions
Authors: Wongeakin Natchaya , Bhattarakosol Parvapan , Patumraj Suthiluk
Published: June 2014

We aim to investigate the effects of curcumin on preventing diabetes-induced vascular inflammation in association with its actions on Txnip, ICAM-1, and NOX2 enzyme expressions. Male Wistar rats were divided into four groups: control (CON), diabetic (DM; streptozotocin (STZ), i.v. 55 mg/kg BW), control-treated with curcumin (CONCUR; 300 mg/kg BW), and diabetes treated with curcumin (DMCUR; 300 mg/kg BW). 12th week after STZ injection, iris blood perfusion, leukocyte adhesion, Txnip, p47phox, and malondialdehyde (MDA) levels were determined by using laser Doppler, intravital fluorescent confocal microscopy, Western Blot analysis, and TBAR assay, respectively. The iris blood perfusion of DM and DMCUR was decreased significantly compared to CON and CONCUR(P<0.001). Plasma glucose and HbA1c of DM and DMCUR were increased significantly compared to CON and CONCUR(P<0.001). Leukocyte adhesion, ICAM-1, p47phox expression, and MDA levels in DM were increased significantly compared to CON, CONCUR, and DMCUR(P<0.05). Txnip expression in DM and DMCUR was significantly higher than CON and CONCUR(P<0.05). From Pearson’s analysis, the correlation between the plasma MDA level and the endothelial functions was significant. It suggested that curcumin could ameliorate diabetic vascular inflammation by decreasing ROS overproduction, reducing leukocyte-endothelium interaction, and inhibiting ICAM-1 and NOX2 expression.
Balteatide: A Novel Antimicrobial Decapeptide from the Skin Secretion of the Purple-Sided Leaf Frog,Phyllomedusa baltea
Authors: Ge Lilin , Chen Xiaole , Ma Chengbang , Zhou Mei , Xi Xinping , Wang Lei , Ding Anwei , Duan Jinao , Chen Tianbao , Shaw Chris
Published: June 2014

The skin secretions of Neotropical phyllomedusine leaf frogs have proven to be a rich source of biologically active peptides, including antimicrobials. The major families of antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) reported are the dermaseptins and phylloseptins and the minor families are the dermatoxins, phylloxins, plasticins, distinctins, and medusins. Here, we report a novel AMP of 10 amino acid residues (LRPAILVRIKamide), named balteatide, from the skin secretion of wild Peruvian purple-sided leaf frogs,Phyllomedusa baltea. Balteatide was found to exhibit a 90% sequence identity with sauvatide, a potent myotropic peptide from the skin secretion ofPhyllomedusa sauvagei. However, despite both peptides exhibiting only a single amino acid difference (I/T at position 9), sauvatide is devoid of antimicrobial activity and balteatide is devoid of myotropic activity. Balteatide was found to have differential activity against the Gram-positive bacterium,Staphylococcus aureus; the Gram-negative bacterium,Escherichia coli; and the yeast,Candida albicans, and unusual for phyllomedusine frog skin AMPs, was most potent (MIC 32 mg/L) against the yeast. Balteatide was also devoid of haemolytic activity up to concentrations of 512 mg/L. Phyllomedusine frog skin secretions thus continue to provide novel AMPs, some of which may provide templates for the rational design of new classes of anti-infective therapeutics.
Research on a Nonlinear Robust Adaptive Control Method of the Elbow Joint of a Seven‐Function Hydraulic Manipulator Based on Double‐Screw‐Pair Transmission
Authors: Luo Gaosheng , Chen Jiawang , Gu Linyi
Published: June 2014

A robust adaptive control method with full‐state feedback is proposed based on the fact that the elbow joint of a seven‐function hydraulic manipulator with double‐screw‐pair transmission features the following control characteristics: a strongly nonlinear hydraulic system, parameter uncertainties susceptible to temperature and pressure changes of the external environment, and unknown outer disturbances. Combined with the design method of the back‐stepping controller, the asymptotic stability of the control system in the presence of disturbances from uncertain systematic parameters and unknown external disturbances was demonstrated using Lyapunov stability theory. Based on the elbow joint of the seven‐function master‐slave hydraulic manipulator for the 4500 m Deep‐Sea Working System as the research subject, a comparative study was conducted using the control method presented in this paper for unknown external disturbances. Simulations and experiments of different unknown outer disturbances showed that (1) the proposed controller could robustly track the desired reference trajectory with satisfactory dynamic performance and steady accuracy and that (2) the modified parameter adaptive laws could also guarantee that the estimated parameters are bounded.
Intestinal Obstruction due to Bilateral Strangulated Femoral Hernias
Authors: Nikolopoulos Ioannis , Oderuth Eshan , Ntakomyti Eleni , Kald Bengt
Published: June 2014

Introduction. Femoral hernias are at high risk of strangulation due to the narrow femoral canal and femoral ring. This can lead to symptoms of obstruction or strangulation requiring emergency surgery and possible bowel resection. To our knowledge, there is only one previous published report of bilateral strangulated femoral hernia. We present our case of this phenomenon.Case Report. An 86-year-old woman presented with symptoms of small bowel obstruction. Examination revealed two tender lumps in the area of the femoral triangle. CT scan revealed bilateral femoral hernias. Both hernias were repaired and a small bowel resection on the right side was performed with side to side anastomosis. She made an uneventful recovery.Conclusion. Bilateral femoral hernias are a rare occurrence with only one reported case of bilateral strangulation. Our case highlights the importance of meticulous history taking and clinical examination as any delay in diagnosis will increase the risk of mortality and morbidity for the patient. Hernias should always be considered as a cause if one presents with symptoms of abdominal pain or obstruction.
An Energy-Efficient Collaborative Ground Vibration Measurement Scheme Based on Compressed Sensing and Belief Propagation
Authors: Chen Danqi , Feng Jilin , Liu Qiang , Gao Fangping , Zhang Yanxia , Wang Xiaoying
Published: June 2014

Wireless sensor networks (WSNs) can provide crucial and real-time information in many crisis response and management scenarios. For example, in volcano monitoring and the rapid reporting of aftershock information, WSNs detect the ground vibration and transmit the information sufficiently fast to help people survive the disaster. However, the processing and transmission of ground vibration data present a heavy burden for the small nodes of WSNs, and a single sensor node cannot provide accurate results for ground vibration detection. In this paper, we present a promising energy-efficient collaborative ground vibration measurement scheme based on efficient compressed sensing method and belief propagation method using the difference in the signal strength to distribute wireless communication load among sensor nodes, improve the detection probability, and extend the lifetime of this system. The performance was studied via theoretical analysis and simulation experiments, and the results indicated that the system could reconstruct the seismic signal even with a low measurement count; other benefits included decreased energy consumption of the sensor nodes and a considerably increased detection probability because of the proposed belief propagation method.
A Large-Scale Quantitative Survey of the German Geocaching Community in 2007
Authors: Telaar Daniel , Krüger Antonio , Schöning Johannes
Published: June 2014

We present a large-scale quantitative contextual survey of the geocaching community in Germany, one of the world’s largest geocaching communities. We investigate the features, attitudes, interests, and motivations that characterise the German geocachers. Two anonymous surveys have been carried out on this issue in the year 2007. We conducted a large-scale qualitative general study based on web questionnaires and a more targeted study, which aimed at a comprehensive amount of revealed geocaches of a certain region. With sample sizes ofn=1982(study 1: general study) andn=310(study 2: regional study) we provide a representative basis to ground previous qualitative research in this domain. In addition, we investigated the usage of technology in combination with traditional paper-based media by the geocachers. This knowledge can be used to reflect on past and future trends within the geocaching community.
A New Susceptibility Locus for Myocardial Infarction, Hypertension, Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus, and Dyslipidemia on Chromosome 12q24
Authors: Wakil Salma M. , Muiya Nzioka P. , Tahir Asma I. , Al-Najai Mohammed , Baz Batoul , Andres Editha , Mazhar Nejat , Al Tassan Nada , Alshahid Maie , Meyer Brian F. , Dzimiri Nduna
Published: June 2014

We examined the role of hepatic nuclear factor-1 alpha (HNF1a) gene polymorphism on coronary artery disease (CAD) traits in 4631 Saudi angiographed individuals (2419 CAD versus 2212 controls) using TaqMan assay on ABI Prism 7900HT sequence detection system. Following adjustment for confounders, the rs2259820_CC (1.19 (1.01–1.42);P=0.041), rs2464196_TT (1.19 (1.00–1.40);P=0.045), and rs2259816_T (1.13 (1.01–1.26);P=0.031) were associated with MI. The rs2259820_T (1.14 (1.03–1.26);P=0.011) and rs2464196_C (1.12 (1.02–1.24);P=0.024) were associated with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), while the rs2393791_T (1.14 (1.01–1.28);P=0.032), rs7310409_G (1.16 (1.03–1.30);P=0.013), and rs2464196_AG+GG (1.25 (1.05–1.49);P=0.012) were implicated in hypertension. Hypertriglyceridemia was linked to the rs2393791_T (1.14 (1.02–1.27);P=0.018), rs7310409_G (1.12 (1.01–1.25);P=0.031), rs1169310_G (1.15 (1.04–1.28);P=0.010), and rs1169313_CT+TT (1.24 (1.06–1.45);P=0.008) and high low density lipoprotein-cholesterol levels were associated with rs2259820_T (1.23 (1.07–1.41);P=0.004), rs2464196_T (1.22 (1.06–1.39);P=0.004), and rs2259816_T (1.18 (1.02–1.36);P=0.023). A 7-mer haplotype CATATAC (χ2=7.50;P=0.0062), constructed from the studied SNPs, was associated with MI, and CATATA implicated in T2DM (χ2=3.94;P=0.047). Hypertriglyceridemia was linked to TGCGGG (χ2=4.26;P=0.039), and obesity to ACGGGT (χ2=5.04;P=0.025). Our results suggest that theHNF1ais a common susceptibility gene for MI, T2DM, hypertension, and dyslipidemia.
A Real-Time and Efficient MAC Protocol for Smart Grid Wireless Communications
Authors: Liu Qiang , Chen Danqi , Gao Fangping , Pang Guoli
Published: June 2014

Communication and information technologies play crucial roles in the smart grid system. Wireless communications offer many unique features to utilities. Real-time capability and high efficiency under heavy load are vital capabilities for smart grid wireless communications. However, the existing medium access control (MAC) protocols for low-rate and short-range wireless transfer in the literature mainly aim to achieve the objectives of low energy consumption and self-configuration and rarely address these requirements under heavy traffic intensity. This paper presents a real-time, efficient, and lightweight MAC (RE-MAC) protocol to support smart grid applications, based on priority node polling and a hybrid scheme. The upper bounds of packet delay are determined using the embedded Markov chain method, and the simulation results demonstrate that the protocol can achieve predictable, real-time, and efficient performance.
Investigation of Estrogen Receptor (ESR1) for Breast Cancer from Traditional Chinese Medicine
Authors: Hung Tzu-Chieh , Lee Wen-Yuan , Chen Kuen-Bao , Chan Yueh-Chiu , Chen Calvin Yu-Chian
Published: June 2014

Recently, an important topic of breast cancer had been published in 2013. In this report, estrogen receptor (ESR1) had defined the relation of hormone-cause breast cancer. The screening of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) database has found the molecular compounds by simulating molecular docking and molecular dynamics to regulate ESR1. S-Allylmercaptocysteine and 5-hydroxy-L-tryptophan are selected according to the highest docking score than that of other TCM compounds and Raloxifene (control). The simulation from molecular dynamics is helpful in analyzing and detecting the protein-ligand interactions. After a comparing the control and the Apo form, then based on the docking poses, hydrophobic interactions, hydrogen bond and structure variations, this research postulates that S-allylmercaptocysteine may be more appropriate than other compounds for protein-ligand interaction.
In VitroAntimicrobial and Antiprotozoal Activities, Phytochemical Screening and Heavy Metals Toxicity of Different Parts ofBallota nigra
Authors: Ullah Najeeb , Ahmad Ijaz , Ayaz Sultan
Published: June 2014

The study was done to assess the phytochemicals (flavonoids, terpenoids, saponins, tannin, alkaloids, and phenol) in different parts (root, stem, and leaves) ofBallota nigraand correlated it to inhibition of microbes (bacteria and fungi), protozoan (Leishmania), and heavy metals toxicity evaluation. In root and stem flavonoids, terpenes and phenols were present in ethanol, chloroform, and ethyl acetate soluble fraction; these were found to be the most active inhibiting fractions against all the tested strains of bacteria, fungi, and leishmania. While in leaves flavonoids, terpenes, and phenols were present in ethanol, chloroform, andn-butanol fractions which were the most active fractions against both types of microbes and protozoan (leishmania) inin vitrostudy. Ethanol and chloroform fractions show maximum inhibition againstEscherichia coli(17 mm). The phytochemical and biological screenings were correlated with the presence of heavy metals in selected plantBallota nigra.Cr was found above permissible value (above 1.5 mg/kg) in all parts of the plant. Ni was above WHO limit inB. nigraroot and leaves (3.35 ± 1.20 mg/kg and 5.09 ± 0.47 mg/kg, respectively). Fe was above permissible value in all parts ofB. nigra(above 20 mg/kg). Cd was above permissible value in all parts of the plant (above 0.3 mg/kg). Pb was above WHO limit (above 2 mg/kg) in all parts ofBallota nigra.
Production and Purification of a Novel Xanthan Lyase from a Xanthan-DegradingMicrobacteriumsp. Strain XT11
Authors: Yang Fan , Yang Lan , Guo Xiaoyu , Wang Xue , Li Lili , Liu Zhicheng , Wang Wei , Li Xianzhen
Published: June 2014

A xanthan lyase was produced and purified from the culture supernatant of an excellent xanthan-modifying strainMicrobacteriumsp. XT11. Xanthan lyase was induced by xanthan but was inhibited by its structural monomer glucose. Its production by strain XT11 is much higher than that by all other reported strains. The purified xanthan lyase has a molecular mass of 110 kDa and a specific activity of 28.2 U/mg that was much higher than that of bothPaenibacillusandBacilluslyases. It was specific on the pyruvated mannosyl residue in the intact xanthan molecule, but about 50% lyase activity remained when xanthan was partially depyruvated. Xanthan lyase was optimally active at pH 6.0–6.5 and 40°C and alkali-tolerant at a high pH value of 11.0. The metal ions including K+, Ca2+, Na+, Mg2+, Mn2+, and Li+strongly stimulated xanthan lyase activity but ions Zn2+and Cu2+were its inhibitor. Xanthan lyase should be a novel enzyme different from the other xanthan lyases ever reported.
Cystic Meningioma Simulating Arachnoid Cyst: Report of an Unusual Case
Authors: Jorge Docampo , Nadia Gonzalez , Claudio Vazquez , Carlos Morales , Eduardo Gonzalez-Toledo
Published: June 2014

The purpose of this paper is to show an unusual case of meningioma simulating arachnoid cyst on CT scan and MRI, diagnosed in a 63-year-old woman evaluated for headache and vision disorders. The meningioma shown is predominantly cystic with a small mural nodule enhancing after gadolinium and exhibiting diffusion restriction. Cystic portion of the tumor is hypodense on CT, and evidences fluid signal intensity on T1- and T2-weighted MR imaging.
On One Approach to TSP Structural Stability
Authors: Ivanko Evgeny
Published: June 2014

In this paper we study an inverse approach to the traveling salesman reoptimization problem. Namely, we consider the case of the addition of a new vertex to the initial TSP data and fix the simple “adaptation” algorithm: the new vertex is inserted into an edge of the optimal tour. In the paper we consider the conditions describing the vertexes that can be inserted by this algorithm without loss of optimality, study the properties of stability areas, and address several model applications.
Incidence and Predicted Risk Factors of Pressure Ulcers in Surgical Patients: Experience at a Medical Center in Taipei, Taiwan
Authors: Fu Shaw Ling , Chang Pao-Chu , Lee Jung-Fen , Kung Huei-Yu , Tung Tao-Hsin
Published: June 2014

Purpose. To explore the context of incidence of and associated risk factors for pressure ulcers amongst the population of surgical patients.Methods. The initial study cohort was conducted with a total of 297 patients admitted to a teaching hospital for a surgical operation from November 14th to 27th 2006 in Taipei, Taiwan. The Braden scale, pressure ulcers record sheet, and perioperative patient outcomes free from signs and symptoms of injury related to positioning and related nursing interventions and activities were collected.Results. The incidence of immediate and thirty-minute-later pressure ulcers is 9.8% (29/297) and 5.1% (15/297), respectively. Using logistic regression model, the statistically significantly associated risk factors related to immediate and thirty-minute-later pressure ulcers include operation age, type of anesthesia, type of operation position, type of surgery, admission Braden score, and number of nursing intervention after adjustment for confounding factors.Conclusion. Admission Braden score and number of nursing intervention are well-established protected factors for the development of pressure ulcers. Our study shows that older operation age, type of anesthesia, type of operation position, and type of surgery are also associated with the development of pressure ulcers.
Microstructure and Mechanical Properties of AM50A Magnesium Alloy Components Prepared by Die Casting and Double Control Forming
Authors: Jiang Jufu , Nie Xi , Wang Ying , Yang Jing
Published: June 2014

The complex motorcycle wheel components of AM50A magnesium alloy had been formed by double control forming and die casting, respectively. The surface quality of components formed by double control forming was much better than die casting parts. When double control forming was used to replace die casting to form motorcycle wheel components, the tensile strength increased from 149.4 MPa to 207.0 MPa and the elongation increased from 5.6% to 10%. The fracture mode was transformed from brittle one of die casting parts to ductile one of double control forming parts. The average grain sizes in the spoke region and the hub region of double control forming wheels were 16 μm and 20 μm, respectively, which were smaller than those of die casting components. The matrix phase of the spoke part was α-Mg, the second phase was Mg17Al12. A fishbone morphology of the second phase of die casting parts was found in the grain boundaries. The second phase of double control forming parts was like needle or rod presence at the grain boundaries. The thickness and spacing twinning in double control forming components became smaller.
Resveratrol Ameliorates Motor Neuron Degeneration and Improves Survival in SOD1G93AMouse Model of Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis
Authors: Song Lin , Chen Liang , Zhang Xiaojie , Li Jia , Le Weidong
Published: June 2014

Resveratrol has recently been used as a supplemental treatment for several neurological and nonneurological diseases. It is not known whether resveratrol has neuroprotective effect on amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). To assess the effect of resveratrol on the disease, we tested this agent on an ALS model ofSOD1G93Atransgenic mouse. Rotarod measurement was performed to measure the motor function of the ALS mice. Nissl staining and SMI-32 immunofluorescent staining were used to determine motor neurons survival in the spinal cord of the ALS mice. Hematoxylin-eosin (H&E), succinic dehydrogenase (SDH), and cytochrome oxidase (COX) staining were applied to pathologically analyze the skeletal muscles of the ALS mice. We found that resveratrol treatment significantly delayed the disease onset and prolonged the lifespan of the ALS mice. Furthermore, resveratrol treatment attenuated motor neuron loss, relieved muscle atrophy, and improved mitochondrial function of muscle fibers in the ALS mice. In addition, we demonstrated that resveratrol exerted these neuroprotective effects mainly through increasing the expression of Sirt1, consequently suppressing oxidative stress and downregulating p53 and its related apoptotic pathway. Collectively, our findings suggest that resveratrol might provide a promising therapeutic intervention for ALS.
Management of Gamma-Butyrolactone Dependence with Assisted Self-Administration of GBL
Authors: Meyer Rafael , Jenewein Josef , Boettger Soenke
Published: June 2014

Gamma-hydroxybutyric acid (GHB) and its liquid precursor gamma-butyrolactone (GBL) have become increasingly popular beyond the clubbing culture resulting in daily consumption and dependence in the broader population. This case report illustrates the challenges of managing GHB-withdrawal and a possibly superior future approach of its management by titration and tapering of the addictive agent.
Estimation of Cyclic Interstory Drift Capacity of Steel Framed Structures and Future Applications for Seismic Design
Authors: Bojórquez Edén , Reyes-Salazar Alfredo , Ruiz Sonia E. , Terán-Gilmore Amador
Published: June 2014

Several studies have been devoted to calibrate damage indices for steel and reinforced concrete members with the purpose of overcoming some of the shortcomings of the parameters currently used during seismic design. Nevertheless, there is a challenge to study and calibrate the use of such indices for the practical structural evaluation of complex structures. In this paper, an energy-based damage model for multidegree-of-freedom (MDOF) steel framed structures that accounts explicitly for the effects of cumulative plastic deformation demands is used to estimate the cyclic drift capacity of steel structures. To achieve this, seismic hazard curves are used to discuss the limitations of the maximum interstory drift demand as a performance parameter to achieve adequate damage control. Then the concept of cyclic drift capacity, which incorporates information of the influence of cumulative plastic deformation demands, is introduced as an alternative for future applications of seismic design of structures subjected to long duration ground motions.
Biomimetic-Inspired Infrared Sensors from Zn3P2 Microwires: Study of Their Photoconductivity and Infrared Spectrum Properties
Authors: Israelowitz M. , Weyand B. , Leiterer C. , Munoz V. , Martinez-Tomas C. , Herraiz-Llacer M. , Slowik I. , Beleites C. , Fritzsche W. , Krafft C. , Henkel T. , Reuter M. , Rizvi S. W. H. , Gille C. , Reimers K. , Vogt P. M. , von Schroeder H. P.
Published: June 2014

The fire beetle, Melanophila acuminata (Coleoptera: Buprestidae), senses infrared radiation at wavelengths of 3 and 10–25 microns via specialized protein-containing sensilla. Although the protein denatures outside of a biological system, this detection mechanism has inspired our bottom-up approach to produce single zinc phosphide microwires via vapour transport for IR sensing. The Zn3P2 microwires were immobilized and electrical contact was made by dielectrophoresis. Photoconductivity measurements have been extended to the near IR range, spanning the Zn3P2 band gaps. Purity and integrity of the Zn3P2 microwires including infrared light scattering properties were confirmed by infrared transmission microscopy. This biomimetic microwire shows promise for infrared chip development.
The Landscape of Protein Biomarkers Proposed for Periodontal Disease: Markers with Functional Meaning
Authors: Rosa Nuno , Correia Maria José , Arrais Joel P. , Costa Nuno , Oliveira José Luís , Barros Marlene
Published: June 2014

Periodontal disease (PD) is characterized by a deregulated inflammatory response which fails to resolve, activating bone resorption. The identification of the proteomes associated with PD has fuelled biomarker proposals; nevertheless, many questions remain. Biomarker selection should favour molecules representing an event which occurs throughout the disease progress. The analysis of proteome results and the information available for each protein, including its functional role, was accomplished using the OralOme database. The integrated analysis of this information ascertains if the suggested proteins reflect the cell and/or molecular mechanisms underlying the different forms of periodontal disease. The evaluation of the proteins present/absent or with very different concentrations in the proteome of each disease state was used for the identification of the mechanisms shared by different PD variants or specific to such state. The information presented is relevant for the adequate design of biomarker panels for PD. Furthermore, it will open new perspectives and help envisage future studies targeted to unveil the functional role of specific proteins and help clarify the deregulation process in the PD inflammatory response.
An Artificial Bee Colony Algorithm for Uncertain Portfolio Selection
Authors: Chen Wei
Published: June 2014

Portfolio selection is an important issue for researchers and practitioners. In this paper, under the assumption that security returns are given by experts’ evaluations rather than historical data, we discuss the portfolio adjusting problem which takes transaction costs and diversification degree of portfolio into consideration. Uncertain variables are employed to describe the security returns. In the proposed mean-variance-entropy model, the uncertain mean value of the return is used to measure investment return, the uncertain variance of the return is used to measure investment risk, and the entropy is used to measure diversification degree of portfolio. In order to solve the proposed model, a modified artificial bee colony (ABC) algorithm is designed. Finally, a numerical example is given to illustrate the modelling idea and the effectiveness of the proposed algorithm.
Countermeasures to Avoid Noncooperation in Fully Self-Organized VANETs
Authors: Molina-Gil Jezabel , Caballero-Gil Pino , Caballero-Gil Cándido
Published: June 2014

The secure and efficient exchange of information in vehicular ad hoc networks (VANETs) involves more challenges than in any other type of ad hoc networks. This paper proposes a new vehicular communication system based on mobile phones for fully distributed and decentralized networks. In these networks, communications depend on individual nodes, which could decrease the efficiency and reliability of transmitted information. Besides, the limitation in the resources of mobile devices is an additional obstacle in the forwarding problem, and the content of the information generated by individual nodes must be considered inherently unreliable. In particular, this paper proposes the application of groups as a basis structure for a cooperation mechanism useful in event generation and in packet retransmission. Its aim is to promote the involvement of nodes in network performance. Given that such participation involves consumption of node resources, a group-based structure is here used not only to reduce communication overload but also to prevent sending false information and to encourage nodes in relaying packets. Several simulations of the proposal have been done, and the results have confirmed that this is a promising approach to increase network efficiency and trust in transmitted information, while reducing the number of selfish nodes in VANETs.
A Facile Nanodelivery Platform Based on Functionalized Hyperbranched Poly(ether‐ester) for Individualized Antitumor Drugs: Pingyangmycin as a Model
Authors: Jin Xing-ai , Li Yan-wu , Li Guo-lin , Lv Shao-hua , Liu Ying-qun , Mao Li-min
Published: June 2014

Nanodelivery of antitumor drugs is a new treatment mode for cancer. The aim of this investigation was to construct and evaluate a facile nanodelivery platform for individualized antitumor drugs based on functionalized hyperbranched poly(ether‐ester)s. Poly(ether‐ester)s, as a kind of hyperbranched polymers, have received extensive attention. Three terminal‐functionalized (OH–, NH2– and COOH–) hyperbranched poly(ether‐ester)s were prepared and characterized by dynamic light scattering and attenuated total reflectance Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy. The relationship between chemical terminal variation and physical surface charges was investigated. Biocompatibility of these polymers was confirmed by methyl tetrazolium assays and scanning electron microscopy. As a model drug, pingyangmycin has antitumor and antiangiogenic effects. In the paper, pingyangmycin was mixed with carboxyl‐modified hyperbranched poly(ether‐ester) through ionic binding. Polymer‐mixed pingyangmycin exhibited significant inhibition of HN‐6 head and neck cancer human cells in vitro. These studies demonstrate that functionalized hyperbranched (ether‐ester)s can be exploited as a facile nanodelivery platform for antitumor therapy.
Synchronous Routing for Personal Rapid Transit Pods
Authors: Mrad Mehdi , Chebbi Olfa , Labidi Mohamed , Louly Mohamed Ali
Published: June 2014

Personal rapid transit (PRT) is a public and automated transport system in which a fleet of small driverless vehicles operate in order to transport passengers between a set of stations through a network of guided ways. Each customer is carried from one station to another directly with no stop in intermediate stations. This mode of transport can result in a high level of unused capacity due to the empty moves of the vehicles. In this paper, we model the problem of minimizing the energy consumed by the PRT system while assuming predeterministic list of orders; then we solve it using some constructive heuristics. Experiments are run on 1320 randomly generated test problems with various sizes. Our algorithms are shown to give good results over large trip instances.
Nonisotropic Scattering Characteristic in an Alternant Tree-Blocked Viaduct Scenario on High-Speed Railway at 2.35 GHz
Authors: Sun Rongchen , Tao Cheng , Liu Liu , Tan Zhenhui , Zhang Lingwen , Zhou Tao
Published: June 2014

This paper presents the nonisotropic scattering characteristic of the mobile radio channel in an alternant tree-blocked viaduct scenario on high-speed railway (HSR) by real field measuring at 2.35 GHz. An angle of arrival (AOA) probability density function (PDF) is proposed for the nonuniform AOA at the mobile caused by stochastically distributed scatterers. Two Von Mises angular distributions with broad applicability are used to represent the line of sight (LOS) component and part of the scattering component in the AOA model. Based on such a PDF statistical characteristics of Ricean factor,κ, and AOA of the scattering component are modeled in LOS and obstructed line of sight (OLOS) cases, respectively. The results may give a meaningful and accurate channel model and could be utilized in HSR viaduct scenario evaluation.
Crack Extension Resistance of Normal-Strength Concrete Subjected to Elevated Temperatures
Authors: Chen Jing , Lu Zhoudao
Published: June 2014

Determination of the residual crack extension resistance curves (KR-curves) associated with cohesive force distribution on fictitious crack zone of complete fracture process is implemented in present research. The cohesive force distributes according to bilinear softening traction-separation law proposed by Petersson. Totally ten temperatures varying from 20°C to 600°C and the specimen size of230×200×200 mm with initial-notch depth ratios 0.4 are considered. The load-crack mouth opening displacement curves (P-CMOD) of postfire specimens are obtained by wedge-splitting method from which the stress intensity factor curves (K-curves) are calculated. In each temperature, with the distribution of cohesive force along the fracture process zone, the residual fracture toughnessKR(Δa) increases with increasing crack lengthΔa, whereas theKR-curves decrease with increasing temperaturesTmfor the thermal damage induced. The stability analysis on crack propagation demonstrates that when the residualKR-curve is higher thanK-curve, the crack propagates steadily; otherwise, the crack propagates unsteadily.
Increased Oxidative Damage Associated with Unfavorable Cytogenetic Subgroups in Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia
Authors: Collado Rosa , Ivars David , Oliver Isabel , Tormos Carmen , Egea Mercedes , Miguel Amparo , Sáez Guillermo T. , Carbonell Félix
Published: June 2014

Oxidative stress contributes to genomic instability in chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL), but its relationship with the acquisition of specific chromosomal abnormalities is unknown. We recruited 55 untreated CLL patients and assessed 8-oxo-2′-deoxyguanosine (8-oxo-dG), glutathione, and malondialdehyde (MDA) levels, and we compared them among the cytogenetic subgroups established using fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH). Significant increases in 8-oxo-dG and/or MDA were observed in patients with unfavorable cytogenetic aberrations (17p and 11q deletions) compared to the 13q deletion group.TP53deletion patients exhibited a diminished DNA repair efficiency. Finally, cases with normal FISH also showed enhanced 8-oxo-dG, which could result in adverse outcomes.
Demand Management Based on Model Predictive Control Techniques
Authors: Davizón Yasser A. , Soto Rogelio , Rodríguez José de J. , Rodríguez-Leal Ernesto , Martínez-Olvera César , Hinojosa Carlos
Published: June 2014

Demand management (DM) is the process that helps companies to sell the right product to the right customer, at the right time, and for the right price. Therefore the challenge for any company is to determine how much to sell, at what price, and to which market segment while maximizing its profits. DM also helps managers efficiently allocate undifferentiated units of capacity to the available demand with the goal of maximizing revenue. This paper introduces control system approach to demand management with dynamic pricing (DP) using the model predictive control (MPC) technique. In addition, we present a proper dynamical system analogy based on active suspension and a stability analysis is provided via the Lyapunov direct method.
Rapid Discrimination of the Geographical Origins of an Oolong Tea (Anxi-Tieguanyin) by Near-Infrared Spectroscopy and Partial Least Squares Discriminant Analysis
Authors: Yan Si-Min , Liu Jun-Ping , Xu Lu , Fu Xian-Shu , Cui Hai-Feng , Yun Zhen-Yu , Yu Xiao-Ping , Ye Zi-Hong
Published: June 2014

This paper focuses on a rapid and nondestructive way to discriminate the geographical origin of Anxi-Tieguanyin tea by near-infrared (NIR) spectroscopy and chemometrics. 450 representative samples were collected from Anxi County, the original producing area of Tieguanyin tea, and another 120 Tieguanyin samples with similar appearance were collected from unprotected producing areas in China. All these samples were measured by NIR. The Stahel-Donoho estimates (SDE) outlyingness diagnosis was used to remove the outliers. Partial least squares discriminant analysis (PLSDA) was performed to develop a classification model and predict the authenticity of unknown objects. To improve the sensitivity and specificity of classification, the raw data was preprocessed to reduce unwanted spectral variations by standard normal variate (SNV) transformation, taking second-order derivatives (D2) spectra, and smoothing. As the best model, the sensitivity and specificity reached 0.931 and 1.000 with SNV spectra. Combination of NIR spectrometry and statistical model selection can provide an effective and rapid method to discriminate the geographical producing area of Anxi-Tieguanyin.