bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Different Distributions of Epstein-Barr Virus Early and Late Gene Transcripts within Viral Replication Compartments
Authors: Sugimoto Atsuko , Sato Yoshitaka , Kanda Teru , Murata Takayuki , Narita Yohei , Kawashima Daisuke , Kimura Hiroshi , Tsurumi Tatsuya
Published: April 2013

Productive replication of the Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) occurs in discrete sites in nuclei, called replication compartments, where viral genome DNA synthesis and transcription take place. The replication compartments include subnuclear domains, designated BMRF1 cores, which are highly enriched in the BMRF1 protein. During viral lytic replication, newly synthesized viral DNA genomes are organized around and then stored inside BMRF1 cores. Here, we examined spatial distribution of viral early and late gene mRNAs within replication compartments using confocal laser scanning microscopy and three-dimensional surface reconstruction imaging. EBV early mRNAs were mainly located outside the BMRF1 cores, while viral late mRNAs were identified inside, corresponding well with the fact that late gene transcription is dependent on viral DNA replication. From these results, we speculate that sites for viral early and late gene transcription are separated with reference to BMRF1 cores.
Geomorphology in legal affairs of the Binghamton, New York, metropolitan area
Authors: Coates Donald R.
Published: April 2013

The Binghamton area provides many examples of the interface between scientists and land managers. In this paper I use case histories to document the role of the geomorphologist in the decision-making process. Disastrous Binghamton floods in 1935 to 1936 produced a Federal response through the newly enacted Flood Control Act of 1936. Accordingly, the U.S. Corps of Engineers built the only two dams in the Susquehanna Basin, constructed miles of flood walls, and channelized parts of the Susquehanna and Chenango Rivers. Additional geomorphic engineering resulted from Public Law 566 (1954), which enabled the Soil Conservation Service to complete 17 of 22 dam projects. Other Federal laws have financed the Riverbanks Improvement Program of Broome County, New York, and led to municipal ordinances that prohibit new occupancy in flood plains.

Four-lane roads built under the Federal Interstate Highway Program have altered the Binghamton landscape and have led to much litigation. Lands were condemned that contained gravel deposits, water supplies of contiguous properties have been affected, and proper environmental statements are missing in several design plans. The impact statement clause of the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 was used by a group of preservationists to halt construction of two I-88 projects. Unfortunately, the work stoppage is causing accelerated erosion of unprotected hillslopes and roadbeds and greater environmental damage than if construction had continued. It is important that the urbanization process receive attention from geomorphologists who can aid in minimizing man-made terrain destruction.
Blunt traumatic internal carotid artery dissection with delayed stroke in a young skydiver
Authors: Abbo Michael , Hussain Kosar , Ali Mohammad Baqer Mohammad
Published: April 2013

We describe a case of a 33-year-old skydiver who presented to the emergency department after a traumatic landing following a parachuting episode. He initially presented with right knee pain secondary to a tibial plateau fracture. There were no neurological symptoms or signs at the initial assessment. While he was still in the emergency department, he suddenly developed headache and left-sided hemiplegia. An urgent work-up showed right middle cerebral artery thrombosis with right internal carotid thrombosis and dissection. We have discussed some possible mechanism of injury in skydiving that may have predisposed to the occurrence of cervical dissection in our patient.
BUCKLING OF A PLATE ON A PASTERNAK FOUNDATION UNDER UNIFORM IN-PLANE BENDING LOADS
Authors: BRISCOE CASEY R. , MANTELL SUSAN C. , DAVIDSON JANE H.
Published: April 2013

In-plane bending loads occur in many thin-walled structures, including web core sandwich panels (foam-filled panels with interior webs) under transverse loading. The design of such structures is limited in part by local buckling of the thin webs and the subsequent impact on stiffness and strength. However, the core material can have a significant impact on web buckling strength and thus must be considered in design. This paper presents solutions for the buckling strength of simply supported plates under in-plane bending loads. The location of the neutral bending axis is allowed to vary and is characterized by a load parameter. A Pasternak model is used to account for the resistance of the foundation to compression and shear. Using the principle of minimum potential energy, buckling solutions are developed for infinitely long plates and representative foundation materials. The solutions match known results for two special cases: Uniform loading with variable foundation, and bending loads with no foundation. An order of magnitude increase in buckling strength is possible, depending on loading and foundation stiffness. The results suggest an important avenue for future development of lightweight structures, including sandwich panels and structures such as plate girders that are not typically associated with the use of foam filling.
AN ACCURATE CURVED BEAM ELEMENT BASED ON TRIGONOMETRICAL MIXED POLYNOMIAL FUNCTION
Authors: TANG Y. Q. , ZHOU Z. H. , CHAN S. L.
Published: April 2013

A displacement-based, novel curved beam element is proposed for efficient and reliable analysis of frames composed of curved members. The accuracy of the proposed element is not controlled by the subtended angle of the element with the angle up to π. In contrast to the conventional method, the interpolation function for displacement is based on the infinitesimal straight beam sections extracted from the curved element. Consequently, the strain energy of the curved beam element can be integrated by the infinitesimal sections along the element length. The relationship between the displacements and the corresponding strains in the straight beam is simpler than that in the curvilinear co-ordinate description widely adopted by many researchers in their element derivations. This technique is formulated to avoid couplings between the tangential and radial displacement variables in the strain field and its successful utilization is also demonstrated herein. Furthermore, the relation between displacements and strains of the infinitesimal straight beam section is equivalent to that of the curved beam in the curvilinear co-ordinate description. Finally, the analysis results of several bench marked examples by the proposed curved beam element are presented. The results show the high accuracy and efficiency of the proposed element against the classical curved beam element.
COMPARISON OF EIGENMODE-BASED AND RANDOM FIELD-BASED IMPERFECTION MODELING FOR THE STOCHASTIC BUCKLING ANALYSIS OF I-SECTION BEAM–COLUMNS
Authors: STAVREV A. , STEFANOV D. , SCHILLINGER D. , RANK E.
Published: April 2013

The uncertainty of geometric imperfections in a series of nominally equal I-beams leads to a variability of corresponding buckling loads. Its analysis requires a stochastic imperfection model, which can be derived either by the simple variation of the critical eigenmode with a scalar random variable, or with the help of the more advanced theory of random fields. The present paper first provides a concise review of the two different modeling approaches, covering theoretical background, assumptions and calibration, and illustrates their integration into commercial finite element software to conduct stochastic buckling analyses with the Monte–Carlo method. The stochastic buckling behavior of an example beam is then simulated with both stochastic models, calibrated from corresponding imperfection measurements. The simulation results show that for different load cases, the response statistics of the buckling load obtained with the eigenmode-based and the random field-based models agree very well. A comparison of our simulation results with corresponding Eurocode 3 limit loads indicates that the design standard is very conservative for compression dominated load cases.
A NEW CUSTOM-CONTOURED CUSHION SYSTEM BASED ON FINITE ELEMENT MODELING PREDICTION
Authors: LI SUJIAO , ZHANG ZHENGXIANG , WANG JUE
Published: April 2013

High internal stress in the deep tissues adjacent to bony prominences can cause deep tissue injuries. Therefore, internal stress in the soft tissue should be considered when the performance of anti-decubitus cushions is evaluated during cushion design. This paper reports on a custom-contoured cushion (CCC) system incorporated with a three-dimensional (3D) slice subject-specific finite element (FE) model to investigate the internal stress distribution in the soft tissues. This stress distribution was used to transform the interface pressure into the carving depth of the fabricated cushions based on the biomechanical characteristics of the cushion materials. The internal stress in the soft tissues was investigated using an FE model of buttocks and cushion made from three cushion materials. The cushion design was optimized according to the properties of the material. The simulated interface stress between the buttocks and the cushion (18 kPa) was consistent with the measured interface pressure of the CCC (17.1 kPa). The 3D FE model predicted the internal stress and displacement of the soft tissues and cushion. Additionally, it efficiently optimized the selection of cushion material. Fifty subjects (25 subjects with spinal cord injuries (SCI) and 25 healthy subjects) were recruited to investigate the interface pressure and perform subjective comfort evaluation. The CCC decreased the interface pressure under the buttocks and simultaneously increased the subjective comfort and stability. The effectiveness of the cushion materials was predicted by the CCC system, which also validated the clinical performance of decreasing interface pressure.
SENSOR-FAULT TOLERANT CONDITION MONITORING OF AN INDUSTRIAL MACHINE
Authors: RAMAN SRINIVAS , DE SILVA CLARENCE W.
Published: April 2013

In this paper, a multi-sensor condition monitoring scheme is developed to diagnose machine faults in the presence of sensor failure. The signals from the monitored machine are decomposed using the wavelet packet transform (WPT). Two feature reduction schemes, using genetic algorithms are developed for feature selection in condition monitoring. One scheme assumes no prior knowledge about system costs or failure characteristics, and the other scheme aims to minimize the operating costs over a period of time. Two classifiers, radial basis function networks and support vector machines, are developed and compared in their ability to classify machine faults under conditions of sensor failure. The developed methodology is implemented in an experimental system, an industrial fish processing machine. The machine is instrumented with multiple accelerometers and microphones to continuously acquire signals of machine vibration and sound. The performance of the implemented fault diagnosis methodology is evaluated though experimentation.
The role of the vascular dendritic cell network in atherosclerosis
Authors: Alberts-Grill Noah , Denning Timothy L. , Rezvan Amir , Jo Hanjoong
Published: April 2013

A complex role has been described for dendritic cells (DCs) in the potentiation and control of vascular inflammation and atherosclerosis. Resident vascular DCs are found in the intima of atherosclerosis-prone vascular regions exposed to disturbed blood flow patterns. Several phenotypically and functionally distinct vascular DC subsets have been described. The functional heterogeneity of these cells and their contributions to vascular homeostasis, inflammation, and atherosclerosis are only recently beginning to emerge. Here, we review the available literature, characterizing the origin and function of known vascular DC subsets and their important role contributing to the balance of immune activation and immune tolerance governing vascular homeostasis under healthy conditions. We then discuss how homeostatic DC functions are disrupted during atherogenesis, leading to atherosclerosis. The effectiveness of DC-based “atherosclerosis vaccine” therapies in the treatment of atherosclerosis is also reviewed. We further provide suggestions for distinguishing DCs from macrophages and discuss important future directions for the field.
CNGA3 achromatopsia-associated mutation potentiates the phosphoinositide sensitivity of cone photoreceptor CNG channels by altering intersubunit interactions
Authors: Dai Gucan , Varnum Michael D.
Published: April 2013

Cyclic nucleotide-gated (CNG) channels are critical for sensory transduction in retinal photoreceptors and olfactory receptor cells; their activity is modulated by phosphoinositides (PIPn) such as phosphatidylinositol 4,5-bisphosphate (PIP2) and phosphatidylinositol 3,4,5-trisphosphate (PIP3). An achromatopsia-associated mutation in cone photoreceptor CNGA3, L633P, is located in a carboxyl (COOH)-terminal leucine zipper domain shown previously to be important for channel assembly and PIPn regulation. We determined the functional consequences of this mutation using electrophysiological recordings of patches excised from cells expressing wild-type and mutant CNG channel subunits. CNGA3-L633P subunits formed functional channels with or without CNGB3, producing an increase in apparent cGMP affinity. Surprisingly, L633P dramatically potentiated PIPn inhibition of apparent cGMP affinity for these channels. The impact of L633P on PIPn sensitivity depended on an intact amino (NH2) terminal PIPn regulation module. These observations led us to hypothesize that L633P enhances PIPn inhibition by altering the coupling between NH2- and COOH-terminal regions of CNGA3. A recombinant COOH-terminal fragment partially restored normal PIPn sensitivity to channels with COOH-terminal truncation, but L633P prevented this effect. Furthermore, coimmunoprecipitation of channel fragments, and thermodynamic linkage analysis, also provided evidence for NH2-COOH interactions. Finally, tandem dimers of CNGA3 subunits that specify the arrangement of subunits containing L633P and other mutations indicated that the putative interdomain interaction occurs between channel subunits (intersubunit) rather than exclusively within the same subunit (intrasubunit). Collectively, these studies support a model in which intersubunit interactions control the sensitivity of cone CNG channels to regulation by phosphoinositides. Aberrant channel regulation may contribute to disease progression in patients with the L633P mutation.
Antioxidant-based therapies for angiotensin II-associated cardiovascular diseases
Authors: Rosenbaugh Erin G. , Savalia Krupa K. , Manickam Devika S. , Zimmerman Matthew C.
Published: April 2013

Cardiovascular diseases, including hypertension and heart failure, are associated with activation of the renin-angiotensin system (RAS) and increased circulating and tissue levels of ANG II, a primary effector peptide of the RAS. Through its actions on various cell types and organ systems, ANG II contributes to the pathogenesis of cardiovascular diseases by inducing cardiac and vascular hypertrophy, vasoconstriction, sodium and water reabsorption in kidneys, sympathoexcitation, and activation of the immune system. Cardiovascular research over the past 15–20 years has clearly implicated an important role for elevated levels of reactive oxygen species (ROS) in mediating these pathophysiological actions of ANG II. As such, the use of antioxidants, to reduce the elevated levels of ROS, as potential therapies for various ANG II-associated cardiovascular diseases has been intensely investigated. Although some antioxidant-based therapies have shown therapeutic impact in animal models of cardiovascular disease and in human patients, others have failed. In this review, we discuss the benefits and limitations of recent strategies, including gene therapy, dietary sources, low-molecular-weight free radical scavengers, polyethylene glycol conjugation, and nanomedicine-based technologies, which are designed to deliver antioxidants for the improved treatment of cardiovascular diseases. Although much work has been completed, additional research focusing on developing specific antioxidant molecules or proteins and identifying the ideal in vivo delivery system for such antioxidants is necessary before the use of antioxidant-based therapies for cardiovascular diseases become a clinical reality.
Plasticity of cardiovascular function in snapping turtle embryos (Chelydra serpentina): chronic hypoxia alters autonomic regulation and gene expression
Authors: Eme John , Rhen Turk , Tate Kevin B. , Gruchalla Kathryn , Kohl Zachary F. , Slay Christopher E. , Crossley Dane A.
Published: April 2013

Reptile embryos tolerate large decreases in the concentration of ambient oxygen. However, we do not fully understand the mechanisms that underlie embryonic cardiovascular short- or long-term responses to hypoxia in most species. We therefore measured cardiac growth and function in snapping turtle embryos incubated under normoxic (N21; 21% O2) or chronic hypoxic conditions (H10; 10% O2). We determined heart rate ( fH) and mean arterial pressure (Pm) in acute normoxic (21% O2) and acute hypoxic (10% O2) conditions, as well as embryonic responses to cholinergic, adrenergic, and ganglionic pharmacological blockade. Compared with N21 embryos, chronic H10 embryos had smaller bodies and relatively larger hearts and were hypotensive, tachycardic, and following autonomic neural blockade showed reduced intrinsic fH at 90% of incubation. Unlike other reptile embryos, cholinergic and ganglionic receptor blockade both increased fH. β-Adrenergic receptor blockade with propranolol decreased fH, and α-adrenergic blockade with phentolamine decreased Pm. We also measured cardiac mRNA expression. Cholinergic tone was reduced in H10 embryos, but cholinergic receptor ( Chrm2) mRNA levels were unchanged. However, expression of adrenergic receptor mRNA ( Adrb1, Adra1a, Adra2c) and growth factor mRNA ( Igf1, Igf2, Igf2r, Pdgfb) was lowered in H10 embryos. Hypoxia altered the balance between cholinergic receptors, α-adrenoreceptor and β-adrenoreceptor function, which was reflected in altered intrinsic fH and adrenergic receptor mRNA levels. This is the first study to link gene expression with morphological and cardioregulatory plasticity in a developing reptile embryo.
Mice carrying ubiquitin-specific protease 2 (Usp2) gene inactivation maintain normal sodium balance and blood pressure
Authors: Pouly Daniel , Debonneville Anne , Ruffieux-Daidié Dorothée , Maillard Marc , Abriel Hugues , Loffing Johannes , Staub Olivier
Published: April 2013

Ubiquitylation plays an important role in the control of Na+ homeostasis by the kidney. It is well established that the epithelial Na+ channel ENaC is regulated by the ubiquitin-protein ligase NEDD4-2, limiting ENaC cell surface expression and activity. Ubiquitylation can be reversed by the action of deubiquitylating enzymes (DUBs). One such DUB, USP2-45, was identified previously as an aldosterone-induced protein in the kidney and is also a circadian output gene. In heterologous expression systems, USP2-45 binds to ENaC, deubiquitylates it, and enhances channel density and activity at the cell surface. Because the role of USP2-45 in renal Na+ transport had not been studied in vivo, we investigated here the effect of Usp2 gene inactivation in this process. We demonstrate first that USP2-45 protein has a rhythmic expression with a peak at ZT12. Usp2-KO mice did not show any differences from wild-type littermates with respect to the diurnal control of Na+ or K+ urinary excretion and plasma levels either on a standard diet or after acute and chronic changes to low- and high-Na+ diets, respectively. Moreover, they had similar aldosterone levels on either a low- or high-Na+ diet. Blood pressure measurements using telemetry did not reveal variations compared with control mice. Usp2-KO mice did not display alterations in expression of genes involved in sodium homeostasis or the ubiquitin system, as evidenced by transcriptome analysis in the kidney. Our data suggest that USP2 does not play a primary role in the control of Na+ balance or blood pressure.
Overexpression of catalase prevents hypertension and tubulointerstitial fibrosis and normalization of renal angiotensin-converting enzyme-2 expression in Akita mice
Authors: Shi Yixuan , Lo Chao-Sheng , Chenier Isabelle , Maachi Hasna , Filep Janos G. , Ingelfinger Julie R. , Zhang Shao-Ling , Chan John S. D.
Published: April 2013

We investigated the relationship among oxidative stress, hypertension, renal injury, and angiotensin-converting enzyme-2 (ACE2) expression in type 1 diabetic Akita mice. Blood glucose, blood pressure, and albuminuria were monitored for up to 5 mo in adult male Akita and Akita catalase (Cat) transgenic (Tg) mice specifically overexpressing Cat, a key antioxidant enzyme in their renal proximal tubular cells (RPTCs). Same-age non-Akita littermates and Cat-Tg mice served as controls. In separate studies, adult male Akita mice (14 wk) were treated with ANG 1–7 (500 μg·kg−1·day−1 sc) ± A-779, an antagonist of the Mas receptor (10 mg·kg−1·day−1 sc), and euthanized at the age of 18 wk. The left kidneys were processed for histology and apoptosis studies. Renal proximal tubules were isolated from the right kidneys to assess protein and gene expression. Urinary angiotensinogen (AGT), angiotensin II (ANG II), and ANG 1–7 were quantified by specific ELISAs. Overexpression of Cat attenuated renal oxidative stress; prevented hypertension; normalized RPTC ACE2 expression and urinary ANG 1–7 levels (both were low in Akita mice); ameliorated glomerular filtration rate, albuminuria, kidney hypertrophy, tubulointerstitial fibrosis, and tubular apoptosis; and suppressed profibrotic and proapoptotic gene expression in RPTCs of Akita Cat-Tg mice compared with Akita mice. Furthermore, daily administration of ANG 1–7 normalized systemic hypertension in Akita mice, which was reversed by A-779. These data demonstrate that Cat overexpression prevents hypertension and progression of nephropathy and highlight the importance of intrarenal oxidative stress and ACE2 expression contributing to hypertension and renal injury in diabetes.
Grasping uncertainty: effects of sensorimotor memories on high-level planning of dexterous manipulation
Authors: Lukos Jamie R. , Choi Jason Y. , Santello Marco
Published: April 2013

For successful object manipulation, the central nervous system must appropriately coordinate digit placement and force distribution. It is known that digit force planning is significantly influenced by previous manipulations even when object properties cannot be predicted on a trial-to-trial basis. We sought to determine whether this effect extends beyond force control to the coordination of digit placement and force. Subjects grasped and lifted an object whose center of mass (CM) was changed unpredictably across trials. Grasp planning was quantified by measuring the torque generated on the object at lift onset. We found that both digit placement and force were systematically affected by the CM experienced on the previous trial. Additionally, the negative covariation between digit forces and positions typically found for predictable CM presentations was also found for unpredictable CM trials. A follow-up experiment revealed that these effects were not dependent on visual feedback of object roll during object lift on the previous trial. We conclude that somatosensory feedback from previous grasp experience alone can affect high-level grasp planning by constraining the relation between digit force and position even when the task behavioral consequences cannot be reliably predicted. As learning of manipulations often involves interactions with objects in novel environments, the present findings are an important step to understanding the control strategies associated with the integration of sensorimotor memories and motor planning.
Potassium conductance dynamics confer robust spike-time precision in a neuromorphic model of the auditory brain stem
Authors: Wittig John H. , Boahen Kwabena
Published: April 2013

A fundamental question in neuroscience is how neurons perform precise operations despite inherent variability. This question also applies to neuromorphic engineering, where low-power microchips emulate the brain using large populations of diverse silicon neurons. Biological neurons in the auditory pathway display precise spike timing, critical for sound localization and interpretation of complex waveforms such as speech, even though they are a heterogeneous population. Silicon neurons are also heterogeneous, due to a key design constraint in neuromorphic engineering: smaller transistors offer lower power consumption and more neurons per unit area of silicon, but also more variability between transistors and thus between silicon neurons. Utilizing this variability in a neuromorphic model of the auditory brain stem with 1,080 silicon neurons, we found that a low-voltage-activated potassium conductance ( gKL) enables precise spike timing via two mechanisms: statically reducing the resting membrane time constant and dynamically suppressing late synaptic inputs. The relative contribution of these two mechanisms is unknown because blocking gKL in vitro eliminates dynamic adaptation but also lengthens the membrane time constant. We replaced gKL with a static leak in silico to recover the short membrane time constant and found that silicon neurons could mimic the spike-time precision of their biological counterparts, but only over a narrow range of stimulus intensities and biophysical parameters. The dynamics of gKL were required for precise spike timing robust to stimulus variation across a heterogeneous population of silicon neurons, thus explaining how neural and neuromorphic systems may perform precise operations despite inherent variability.
Stair Scheduling for Data Collection in Wireless Sensor Networks
Authors: Chen Jinbiao , Wang Yongcai , Wang Yuexuan , Hu Changjian
Published: April 2013

Spatially organized clusters are basic structure for large-scale wireless sensor networks. A cluster is generally composed by a large amount of energy-limited low-tier nodes (LNs), which are managed by a powerful cluster head (CH). The low-tier nodes that are close to the cluster head generally become bottlenecks in data collection applications. Energy efficient scheduling is important for the low-tier sensors to be longevous while guaranteeing reliable communication. In this paper, based on three aspects of performance considerations including network longevity, multihop communication reliability, and sensing system cost minimization, we propose a stair duty-cycle scheduling method for the low-tier sensors. It is designed to make the LNs in the same cluster sleep cooperatively for most of the time and wake up in assigned sequence for multihop communication. Stair scheduling cannot only improve the energy efficiency of the network but also guarantee high communication reliability and low transmission delay. Efficiency of the proposed stair scheduling is verified by analysis and intensive simulations. The results show that the performances of stair scheduling are much better than that of random scheduling algorithms.
Amyand’s Hernia: A Serendipitous Diagnosis
Authors: Mewa Kinoo S. , Aboobakar M. R. , Singh B.
Published: April 2013

An Amyand’s hernia refers to the presence of an appendix within an inguinal hernia sac. This uncommon finding occurs in less than 1% of all right side inguinal hernias; to date, this finding has been reported in only 14 patients with left side inguinal hernias. The preoperative diagnosis of this condition is uncommon. We report the 15th case of a left side Amyand’s hernia that was diagnosed preoperatively on a contrast enema study as well as the relatively more common right-sided Amyand’s hernia diagnosed serendipitously at surgery.
Sulforaphane Attenuates Gentamicin-Induced Nephrotoxicity: Role of Mitochondrial Protection
Authors: Negrette-Guzmán Mario , Huerta-Yepez Sara , Medina-Campos Omar Noel , Zatarain-Barrón Zyanya Lucía , Hernández-Pando Rogelio , Torres Ismael , Tapia Edilia , Pedraza-Chaverri José
Published: April 2013

Sulforaphane (SFN), an isothiocyanate naturally occurring in Cruciferae, induces cytoprotection in several tissues. Its protective effect has been associated with its ability to induce cytoprotective enzymes through an Nrf2-dependent pathway. Gentamicin (GM) is a widely used antibiotic; nephrotoxicity is the main side effect of this compound. In this study, it was investigated if SFN is able to induce protection against GM-induced nephropathy both in renal epithelial LLC-PK1 cells in culture and in rats. SFN prevented GM-induced death and loss of mitochondrial membrane potential in LLC-PK1 cells. In addition, it attenuated GM-induced renal injury (proteinuria, increases in serum creatinine, in blood urea nitrogen, and in urinary excretion on N-acetyl-β-D-glucosaminidase, and decrease in creatinine clearance and in plasma glutathione peroxidase activity) and necrosis and apoptosis in rats. The apoptotic death was associated with enhanced active caspase-9. Caspase-8 was unchanged in all the studied groups. In addition, SFN was able to prevent GM-induced protein nitration and decrease in the activity of antioxidant enzymes catalase and glutathione peroxidase in renal cortex. In conclusion, the protective effect of SFN against GM-induced acute kidney injury could be associated with the preservation in mitochondrial function that would prevent the intrinsic apoptosis and nitrosative stress.
Artemether-Soluplus Hot-Melt Extrudate Solid Dispersion Systems for Solubility and Dissolution Rate Enhancement with Amorphous State Characteristics
Authors: Fule Ritesh A. , Meer Tarique S. , Sav Ajay R. , Amin Purnima D.
Published: April 2013

This work studied artemether (ARTM) solid dispersion (SD) formulation using mixture of polymer excipient Soluplus, PEG 400, Lutrol F127, and Lutrol F68 melts at temperatures lower than the melting point of ARTM using a laboratory-size, single-screw rotating batch extruder. The effects of three surfactants PEG 400, Lutrol F127, and Lutrol F68 and parameters like mixing temperature, screw rotating speed, and residence time were systematically studied. SEM, XRD, and FT-IR were employed to investigate the evolution of ARTM’s dissolution into the molten excipient. Differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) was used to quantitatively study the melting enthalpy evolution of the drug. The results showed that the dissolution rate increased with increasing the ratio of polymer and surfactant to that of drug. It was concluded that the dissolution of the drug in the polymer melt is a convective diffusion process and that laminar distributive mixing can significantly enhance the dissolution rate. The aqueous solubility and dissolution rate of prepared solid dispersion were significantly enhanced. In vitro antimalarial studies revealed marked improvement in IC50 values. Thus hot-melt extrusion (HME) is a promising technology for improving solubility and dissolution profile of ARTM.
Genital Ulcer Disease: How Worrisome Is It Today? A Status Report from New Delhi, India
Authors: Muralidhar Sumathi , Talwar Richa , Anil Kumar Deepa , Kumar Joginder , Bala Manju , Khan Nilofar , Ramesh V.
Published: April 2013

Background and Objectives. Genital ulcer diseases represent a diagnostic dilemma, especially in India, where few STI clinics have access to reliable laboratory facility. The changing STI trends require that a correct diagnosis be made in order to institute appropriate treatment and formulate control policies. The objective of this study was to determine recent trends in aetiology of genital ulcers, by using accurate diagnostic tools. Methods. Specimens from 90 ulcer patients were processed for dark field microscopy, stained smears, culture for H. ducreyi, and real-time PCR. Blood samples were collected for serological tests. Results. Prevalence of GUD was 7.45 with mean age at initial sexual experience as 19.2 years. Use of condom with regular and nonregular partners was 19.5% and 42.1%, respectively. Sexual orientation was heterosexual (92.2%) or homosexual (2.2%). There were 8 cases positive for HIV (8.9%). Herpes simplex virus ulcers were the commonest, followed by syphilis and chancroid. There were no cases of donovanosis and LGV. Conclusions. A valuable contribution of this study was in validating clinical and syndromic diagnoses of genital ulcers with an accurate aetiological diagnosis. Such reliable data will aid treatment and better define control measures of common agents and help eliminate diseases amenable to elimination, like donovanosis.
Caffeic Acid Phenethyl Ester Inhibits Epithelial-Mesenchymal Transition of Human Pancreatic Cancer Cells
Authors: Chen Ming-Jen , Shih Shou-Chuan , Wang Horng-Yuan , Lin Ching-Chung , Liu Chia-Yuan , Wang Tsang-En , Chu Cheng-Hsin , Chen Yu-Jen
Published: April 2013

Background. This study aimed to investigate the effect of propolis component caffeic acid phenethyl ester (CAPE) on epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) of human pancreatic cancer cells and the molecular mechanisms underlying these effects.Methods. The transforming growth factorβ(TGF-β-) induced EMT in human pancreatic PANC-1 cancer cells was characterized by observation of morphology and the expression of E-cadherin and vimentin by western blotting. The migration potential was estimated with wound closure assay. The expression of transcriptional factors was measured by quantitative RT-PCR and immunocytochemistry staining. The orthotopic pancreatic cancer xenograft model was used forin vivoassessment.Results. The overexpression of vimentin was attenuated by CAPE, and the alteration in morphology from polygonal to spindle shape was partially reversed by CAPE. Furthermore, CAPE delayed the TGF-β-stimulated migration potential. CAPE treatment did not reduce the expression levels of Smad 2/3, Snail 1, and Zeb 1 but inhibited the expression of transcriptional factor Twist 2. By using an orthotopic pancreatic cancer model, CAPE suppressed the expression of Twist 2 and growth of PANC-1 xenografts without significant toxicity.Conclusion. CAPE could inhibit the orthotopic growth and EMT of pancreatic cancer PANC-1 cells accompanied by downregulation of vimentin and Twist 2 expression.
Delay-Dependent Stability Analysis of Uncertain Fuzzy Systems with State and Input Delays under Imperfect Premise Matching
Authors: Zhang Zejian , Gao Xiao-Zhi , Zenger Kai , Huang Xianlin
Published: April 2013

This paper discusses the stability and stabilization problem for uncertain T-S fuzzy systems with time-varying state and input delays. A new augmented Lyapunov function with an additional triple-integral term and different membership functions of the fuzzy models and fuzzy controllers are introduced to derive the stability criterion, which is less conservative than the existing results. Moreover, a new flexibility design method is also provided. Some numerical examples are given to demonstrate the effectiveness and less conservativeness of the proposed method.
Interaction Effects of the Leu162Val PPARαand Pro12Ala PPARγ2 Gene Variants with Renal Function in Metabolic Syndrome Population
Authors: Mohamed Youssef Sarraj , Mohamed Najah , Afef Slimani , Khaldoun Ben Hamda , Fadoua Neffati , Fadhel Najjar Mohamed , Naceur Slimane Mohamed
Published: April 2013

Leu162Val PPARαand Pro12Ala PPARγ2 were investigated for their individual and their interactive impact on MS and renal functionality (RF). 522 subjects were investigated for biochemical and anthropometric measurements. The diagnosis of MS was based on the IDF definition (2009). The HOMA 2 was used to determine HOMA-β, HOMA-S and HOMA-IR from FPG and FPI concentrations. RF was assessed by estimating the GFR. PCR-RFLP was performed for DNA genotyping. Allele frequencies were 0.845 for Pro and 0.155 for Ala, and were 0.915 for Leu and 0.085 for Val. We showed that carriers of the PPARαVal 162 allele had lower urea, UA and higher GFR compared to those homozygous for the Leu162 allele. Subjects carried by PPARγ2Ala allele had similar results. They also had reduced FPG, FPI and HOMA-IR, and elevated HOMA-βand HOMA-S compared to those homozygous for the Pro allele. Subjects were divided into 4 groups according to the combinations of genetic alleles of the 2 polymorphisms. Subjects carrying the Leu/Val with an Ala allele had lower FPG, PPI, HOMA-IR, urea, UA levels, higher HOMA-β, HOMA-S and GFR than different genotype combinations. Leu162Val PPARαand Pro12Ala PPARγ2 can interact with each other to modulate glucose and insulin homeostasis and expand their association with overall better RF.
New Records of Atypical Coral Reef Habitat in the Kimberley, Australia
Authors: Richards Z. T. , Bryce M. , Bryce C.
Published: April 2013

New surveys of the Kimberley Nearshore Bioregion are beginning to fill knowledge gaps about the region’s marine biodiversity and the national and international conservation significance of this little-known tropical reef system. Here we report the recent finding of two unique coral habitats documented at Adele Island and Long Reef during theWoodside 2009/2010 Collection Projectsurveys. Firstly, we report the finding of a subtidal zone of mixed corallith and rhodolith habitat which appears on current records, to be unprecedented in Australia. Secondly, we report the discovery of an atypical Organ Pipe Coral habitat zone and provide empirical evidence that this commercially valuable species reaches an unparalleled level of benthic cover. We provide additional details about the wider hard and soft coral assemblages associated with these unique habitats; discuss the potential biological causes and consequences of them, and make recommendations to benefit their conservation.
Some Properties for Certain Class of Analytic Functions with Varying Arguments
Authors: Aouf M. K. , Mostafa A. O. , Shamandy A. , Adwan E. A.
Published: April 2013

We introduce a new class of analytic functions with varying arguments in the open unit disc defined by the Salagean operator. The object of the present paper is to determine coefficient estimates, extreme points, and distortion theorems for functions belonging to the class .
Study on Calculation Methods for Sampling Frequency of Acceleration Signals in Gear System
Authors: Zhang Feibin , Cai Ligang , Wang Feng , Gao Lixin , Cui Lingli , Liu Zhifeng
Published: April 2013

The vibration acceleration signal mechanisms in normal and defect gears are studied. An improved bending-torsion vibration model is established, in which the effect of time-varying meshing stiffness and damping, torsional stiffness for transmission shaft, elastic bearing support, the driving motor, and external load are taken into consideration. Then, vibration signals are simulated based on the model under diverse sampling frequencies. The influences of input shaft's rotating frequency, the teeth number, and module of gears are investigated by the analysis of the simulation signals. Finally, formulas are proposed to calculate the acceleration signal bandwidth and the critical and recommended sampling frequencies of the gear system. The compatibility of the formulas is discussed when there is a crack in the tooth root. The calculation results agree well with the experiments.
A PEFKS- and CP-ABE-Based Distributed Security Scheme in Interest-Centric Opportunistic Networks
Authors: Wang Fei , Xu YongJun , Wu Lin , Li Longyijia , Liu Dan , Zhu Liehuang
Published: April 2013

Security is a crucial issue in distributed applications of multihop wireless opportunistic network due to the features of exposed on the fly communication, relaxed end-to-end connectivity, and vague destinations literately. In this paper, we focus on problems of user privacy leakage and end-to-end confidentiality invasion in content-based or interest-centric wireless opportunistic network. And we propose a public-encryption-with-fuzzy-keyword-search- (PEFKS-) and ciphertext-policy-attribute-based-encryption- (CP-ABE-) based distributed security scheme by refining and compromising two-pairing-based encryption, searchable encryption, and attribute-based encryption. Our scheme enables opportunistic forwarding according to fuzzy interests preserving full privacy of users and ensures end-to-end confidentiality with a fine-grained access control strategy in an interest-centric scenario of large-scale wireless opportunistic networks. Finally, we analyze and evaluate the scheme in terms of security and performance.
Metabonomics Combined with UPLC-MS Chemical Profile for Discovery of Antidepressant Ingredients of a Traditional Chinese Medicines Formula, Chaihu-Shu-Gan-San
Authors: Jia Hongmei , Su Zhiheng , Long Wei , Liu Yuetao , Chang Xing , Zhang Hongwu , Ding Gang , Feng Yufei , Cai Dayong , Zou Zhongmei
Published: April 2013

This study proposed a new strategy for uncovering the active chemical constituents of a traditional Chinese medicines (TCMs) formula, Chaihu-Shu-Gan-San (CSGS). Metabonomics and chemical profile were integrated in combination with the multivariate statistical analysis (MVA) to discover the chemical constituents which contribute to the antidepressant effect of CSGS. Based upon the difference between CSGS and QZ (CSGS without Zhi-Qiao) extracts in the chemical profiles and the regulations of metabolic disturbances induced by CUMS, synephrine, naringin, hesperidin, and neohesperidin were recognized as the active constituents of CSGS from Zhi-qiao responsible for those missing regulations of CSGS when Zhi-Qiao was subtracted from the whole formula. They participated in the regulations of the deviated metabolites2–4,10–14, and22–25, involved in metabolic pathways of ketone bodies synthesis, phenylalanine, tyrosine and tryptophan biosynthesis, valine, aspartate, glutamate metabolism, and glycolysis/gluconeogenesis. Furthermore, the assay of MAO-A activity confirmed the potential antidepressant effect of naringin and its active sites on the MAO-A was inferred by molecular docking study. The integration of metabonomics and chemical profile was proved to be a useful strategy for uncovering what the active chemical constituents in TCM formula are and how they make contributions for the efficacy of the formula.
Plexiform Neurofibroma of the Wrist: Imaging Features and When to Suspect Malignancy
Authors: Gosein Maria , Ameeral Anthony , Banfield Renee , Mosodeen Murrie
Published: April 2013

Plexiform neurofibromas are essentially pathognomonic for neurofibromatosis type 1 (NF1), occurring when there is diffuse involvement along a nerve segment and its branches. Transformation into a malignant peripheral nerve sheath tumour (MPNST) is a major cause of mortality in NF1 patients. These tumours are highly aggressive and particularly difficult to diagnose in NF1 patients due to the clinical overlap between benign and malignant lesions. We present a case of a plexiform neurofibroma and discuss the typical imaging characteristics on ultrasound, CT, and MRI, including the target sign and continuity with the parent nerve. Certain imaging features should raise suspicion for malignancy however, these modalities may not always reliably differentiate between benign and malignant lesions. Recent studies show a very high negative predictive value for FDG-PET making it quite useful in excluding malignancy. In positive scans, PET/CT aids in guiding biopsy to the most metabolically active area of the tumour.
Expert Consensus on the Treatment of Hypertension with Chinese Patent Medicines
Authors: Wang Li Ying , Chan Kam Wa , Yuwen Ya , Shi Nan Nan , Han Xue Jie , Lu Aiping
Published: April 2013

Objectives. This study was aimed to determine the therapeutic principle and identify Chinese Patent Medicine (CPM) with corresponding indications for hypertension treatment.Methods. Three rounds of Delphi survey were mailed among 40 cardiovascular integrative medicine specialists. Items with agreement of more than 80% respondents were included in the consensus.Results. According to majority of the panelists, CPM is suitable for most hypertensive patients and should be used according to traditional Chinese medicine pattern classification. CPM could be used alone for grade 1 hypertension and could be used in combination with Western biomedicine (WM) for both grade 2 and grade 3 hypertension. It is recommended that less than two CPMs are used simultaneously. For the treatment of grade 2 and 3 hypertension, CPM and WM should be taken separately. Recommended CPMs included Tianma Gouteng granule, Qiju Dihuang capsule, Jinkui Shenqi pill, Yinxingye tablet, Niuhuang Jiangya pill and Banxia Tianma pill. The indications of 4 CPMs were specified with symptoms related to TCM pattern classification by the experts.Conclusions. An expert consensus on CMP application was formed for the treatment of hypertension in the form of integrative medicine. A flow of IM hypertension management was proposed based on the results of the survey.
A Review of Pterostilbene Antioxidant Activity and Disease Modification
Authors: McCormack Denise , McFadden David
Published: April 2013

Pterostilbene (trans-3,5-dimethoxy-4-hydroxystilbene) is a natural dietary compound and the primary antioxidant component of blueberries. It has increased bioavailability in comparison to other stilbene compounds, which may enhance its dietary benefit and possibly contribute to a valuable clinical effect. Multiple studies have demonstrated the antioxidant activity of pterostilbene in bothin vitroandin vivomodels illustrating both preventative and therapeutic benefits. The antioxidant activity of pterostilbene has been implicated in anticarcinogenesis, modulation of neurological disease, anti-inflammation, attenuation of vascular disease, and amelioration of diabetes. In this review, we explore the antioxidant properties of pterostilbene and its relationship to common disease pathways and give a summary of the clinical potential of pterostilbene in the prevention and treatment of various medical conditions.
Cental Macular Thickness in Patients with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus without Clinical Retinopathy
Authors: Demir Mehmet , Dirim Burcu , Acar Zeynep , Yılmaz Murat , Sendul Yekta
Published: April 2013

Objective. To compare central macular thickness (CMT) of diabetic patients with type 2 diabetes without clinical retinopathy and healthy subjects.Materials and Methods. Optical coherence tomography (OCT) measurements were performed in 124 eyes of 62 subjects with diabetes mellitus without clinical retinopathy (study group: 39 females, 23 males; mean age: 55.06 ± 9.77 years) and in 120 eyes of 60 healthy subjects (control group: 35 females, 25 males; mean age: 55.78 ± 10.34 years). Blood biochemistry parameters were analyzed in all cases. The data for central macular thickness (at 1 mm), the levels of fasting plasma glucose, and glycosylated hemoglobin (HbA1c) were compared in both groups.Results. The mean central macular thickness was 232.12 ± 24.41 µm in the study group and 227.19 ± 29.94 µm in the control group. The mean HbA1c level was 8.92 ± 2.58% in the study group and 5.07 ± 0.70% in the control group (P=0.001). No statistically significant relationship was found between CMT, HbA1c, and fasting plasma glucose level in either group (P>0.05).Conclusions. Central macular thickness was not significantly thicker in patients with type 2 diabetes without clinical retinopathy than in healthy subjects.