bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Aldehyde Dehydrogenase Expression Drives Human Regulatory T Cell Resistance to Posttransplantation Cyclophosphamide
Authors: Kanakry Christopher G. , Ganguly Sudipto , Zahurak Marianna , Bolaños-Meade Javier , Thoburn Christopher , Perkins Brandy , Fuchs Ephraim J. , Jones Richard J. , Hess Allan D. , Luznik Leo
Published: November 2013

Regulatory T cells become resistant to cyclophosphamide after allogeneic stimulation, protecting against GVHD.
Preserving Youth: Does Rapamycin Deliver?
Authors: Johnson Simon C. , Martin George M. , Rabinovitch Peter S. , Kaeberlein Matt
Published: November 2013

Research suggests that the drug rapamycin slows mammalian aging, but a provocative new study has gained attention by claiming to show it does not.
Piecing Together the Puzzle of Severe Malaria
Authors: Cunnington Aubrey J. , Walther Michael , Riley Eleanor M.
Published: November 2013

There are some crucial gaps in our understanding of severe falciparum malaria, which are hindering the translation of new findings into new treatments.
The Gut Is No Place for Freedom of Expression
Authors: Polage Christopher R.
Published: November 2013

Histone deacetylase 3 regulates epithelial cell responses to bacteria in the gut.
Newer-Generation Drug-Eluting Stents: Heal Thyself
Authors: Zidar David A.
Published: November 2013

Newer-generation drug-eluting stents are associated with improved re-endothelialization and less inflammation in patients.
Lipoma of the sinus tarsi
Authors: Fan Ka Yuk , Lui Tun Hing
Published: November 2013

Lipoma is rarely found in the foot. It is usually asymptomatic although sometimes can present with pain. We report a case of lipoma of the sinus tarsi presenting with functional instability.
Giant leiomyoma of the oesophagus with eosinophilic infiltration
Authors: Mutairi Hadi , Al-Akkad Mohammad , Afzal Mussarat , Chaudhry Ikram
Published: November 2013

The most common benign tumour of the oesophagus is leiomyoma. Haemopoietic elements rarely infiltrate oesophageal leiomyoma. We report the case of a 24-year-old man with a long history of intermittent dysphagia. Endoscopy revealed external compression with normal oesophageal mucosa. A barium swallow study showed a defect in the oesophageal wall and a narrow oesophageal lumen. A CT scan of the chest confirmed a mass in the mid-oesophagus. A tumour was excised and the histology report revealed leiomyoma infiltrated with eosinophils, which is a rare variant.
Strategies for ventilation in acute, severe lung injury after combat trauma
Authors: Brogden Thomas G , Bunin J , Kwon H , Lundy J , McD Johnston A , Bowley DM
Published: November 2013

Post-traumatic Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome (ARDS) continues to be a major critical care challenge with a high associated mortality and extensive morbidity for those who survive. This paper explores the evolution in recognition and management of this condition and makes some recommendations for treatment of post-combat ARDS for military practitioners. It is aimed at the generalist in disciplines other than critical care, but will also be of interest to intensivists.
Conditional effects of aquatic insects of small tributaries on mainstream assemblages: position within drainage network matters
Authors: Milesi Silvia Vendruscolo , Melo Adriano Sanches
Published: November 2013

Tributaries may affect fauna in a mainstream by changing bottom substrate and increasing spatial heterogeneity. Additionally, we hypothesized that fauna in the mainstream may be affected by drifting migrants from tributaries. In nine stream networks, we sampled a similar microhabitat immediately upstream and downstream of two confluences. In each network, one confluence was located in the network centre and one in the periphery, and they were distinguished by low and high ratios of tributary size, respectively. We assessed whether the aquatic fauna at sites downstream from confluences was species-richer, distinct in composition and structure, and whether it included the fauna of upstream sites. We found that richness, rarefied richness, and abundance at downstream sites were not higher than at their upstream counterparts. Faunas at downstream sites were not nested subsets of those at upstream sites. Macroinvertebrate assemblage composition and structure differed between downstream and upstream sites in the peripheral confluences (high tributary to mainstream (T:M) ratios), but not in central confluences (low T:M ratios). Thus, effects of small tributaries on receiving mainstreams are dependent on the T:M ratio.
Estimating spatio-temporal dynamics of size-structured populations
Authors: Kristensen Kasper , Thygesen Uffe Høgsbro , Andersen Ken Haste , Beyer Jan E.
Published: November 2013

Spatial distributions of structured populations are usually estimated by fitting abundance surfaces for each stage and at each point of time separately, ignoring correlations that emerge from growth of individuals. Here, we present a statistical model that combines spatio-temporal correlations with simple stock dynamics to estimate simultaneously how size distributions and spatial distributions develop in time. We demonstrate the method for a cod (Gadus morhua) population sampled by trawl surveys. Particular attention is paid to correlation between size classes within each trawl haul due to clustering of individuals with similar size. The model estimates growth, mortality, and reproduction, after which any aspect of size structure, spatio-temporal population dynamics, as well as the sampling process can be probed. This is illustrated by two applications: (i) tracking the spatial movements of a single cohort through time and (ii) predicting the risk of bycatch of undersized individuals. The method demonstrates that it is possible to combine stock assessment and spatio-temporal dynamics; however, this comes at a high computational cost. The model can be extended by increasing its ecological fidelity, although computational feasibility eventually becomes limiting.
Role of forced regression in controlling Brent Group reservoir architecture and prospectivity in the northern North Sea
Authors: Went D. J. , Hamilton R. V. , Platt N. H. , Underhill J. R.
Published: November 2013

The Middle Jurassic Brent Group of the northern North Sea presents a mature and highly productive reservoir play fairway where a combination of effective facies analysis and depositional sequence stratigraphy offers real potential to optimize exploitation. The north of the Brent province differs from classically studied southern areas in being dominated by marginal-marine delta-front facies. A core- and log-based study of 37 wells around the Don fields was performed to establish a sequence stratigraphic framework, map facies and thereby describe facies architecture. The results demonstrate that reservoir quality and productivity are regionally and locally controlled by facies. Of particular interest are intervals of fluvio-estuarine channel to sharp-based shoreface sandstone that formed during sea-level lowstands, since it is these packages that boost well productivity but, conversely, also increase the risk of early water breakthrough on production. Analogy with the Saloum Delta of Senegal highlights the importance of rapid and continuous barrier migration and destruction in controlling the deflection and switching of fluvio-estuarine channels, explaining also the preferential preservation of channel-floor deposits over continuously eroded barrier and delta-top facies. Interpretations suggest that deposition in the study area was dominated by punctuated progradation of the Brent Delta, as periods of delta plain incision alternated with episodes of base-level rise and delta aggradation/progradation. A model of regression for the Brent Delta is presented, where the Rannoch, Etive and Ness formations are an amalgam of highstand, falling stage and lowstand systems tract deposits, and the Tarbert Formation is a transgressive systems tract deposit, with the delta responding to regional relative sea-level changes driven by uplift and deflation of the mid North Sea dome. The prograding Brent Delta is characterized as a succession of attached shorefaces formed by alternating periods of normal and forced regression. Significantly, this explains the long distance (>200 km) build out of the Brent Delta and the continued presence of coarse-sandstone packages, as well as the potential for high-quality reservoirs even in the distal reaches of the system. It also suggests that there is limited potential for lowstand fan plays beyond the northernmost tip of the delta.
PAT1 (SLC36A1) shows nuclear localization and affects growth of smooth muscle cells from rats
Authors: Jensen Anne , Figueiredo-Larsen Manuel , Holm René , Broberg Mie Larsen , Brodin Birger , Nielsen Carsten Uhd
Published: November 2013

The proton-coupled amino acid transporter 1 (PAT1) is a transporter of amino acids in small intestinal enterocytes. PAT1 is, however, also capable of regulating cell growth and sensing the availability of amino acids in other cell types. The aim of the present study was to investigate the localization and function of PAT1 in smooth muscle cells (SMCs). The PAT1 protein was found in smooth muscles from rat intestine and in the embryonic rat aorta cell line A7r5. Immunolocalization and cellular fractionation studies revealed that the majority of the PAT1 protein located within the cell nucleus of A7r5 cells. These results were confirmed in primary SMCs derived from rat aorta and colon. A 3′-untranslated region of the PAT1 transcript directed the nuclear localization. Neither cellular starvation nor cell division altered the nuclear localization. In agreement, uptake studies of l-proline, a PAT1 substrate, in A7r5 cells suggested an alternative role for PAT1 in SMCs than in transport. To shed light on the function of PAT1 in A7r5 cells, experiments with downregulation of the PAT1 level by use of a siRNA approach were conducted. The growth rates of the cells were evaluated, and knockdown of PAT1 led to induced cellular growth, suggesting a role for PAT1 in regulating cellular proliferation of SMCs.
Traumatic Brain Injury Related Hospitalization and Mortality in California
Authors: Lagbas Clint , Bazargan-Hejazi Shahrzad , Shaheen Magda , Kermah Dulcie , Pan Deyu
Published: November 2013

Objective. The aim of this study is to describe the traumatic brain injury (TBI) population and causes and identify factors associated with TBI hospitalizations and mortality in California.Methods. This is a cross-sectional study of 61,188 patients with TBI from the California Hospital Discharge Data 2001 to 2009. We used descriptive, bivariate, and multivariate analyses in SAS version 9.3.Results. TBI-related hospitalizations decreased by 14% and mortality increased by 19% from 2001 to 2009. The highest percentages of TBI hospitalizations were due to other causes (38.4%), falls (31.2%), being of age≥75years old (37.2%), being a males (58.9%), and being of Medicare patients (44%). TBIs due to falls were found in those age≤4years old (53.5%),≥75years old (44.0%), and females (37.2%). TBIs due to assaults were more frequent in Blacks (29.0%). TBIs due to motor vehicle accidents were more frequent in 15–19 and 20–24 age groups (48.7% and 48.6%, resp.) and among Hispanics (27.8%). Higher odds of mortality were found among motor vehicle accident category (adjusted odds ratio (AOR): 1.27, 95% CI: 1.14–1.41); males (AOR: 1.36, 95% CI: 1.27–1.46); and the≥75-year-old group (AOR: 6.4, 95% CI: 4.9–8.4).Conclusions. Our findings suggest a decrease in TBI-related hospitalizations but an increase in TBI-related mortality during the study period. The majority of TBI-related hospitalizations was due to other causes and falls and was more frequent in the older, male, and Medicare populations. The higher likelihood of TBI-related mortalities was found among elderly male≥75years old who had motor vehicle accidents. Our data can inform practitioners, prevention planners, educators, service sectors, and policy makers who aim to reduce the burden of TBI in the community. Implications for interventions are discussed.
Analytical Method for Heat Conduction Problem with Internal Heat Source in Irregular Domains
Authors: Fan Hongming , Tang Sen , Hua Jin , Yu Hang
Published: November 2013

In engineering field, analytical methods can only be applied to classic heat transfer problems with regular geometric boundaries. It is difficult to apply analytical methods in solving the mathematical and physical equations in nonorthogonal boundary of irregular domains. In this paper, we presented a method by conformal mapping from the solution for heat conduction problems in regular domains to solve problems in irregular domains.
Approximate Controllability of Sobolev Type Nonlocal Fractional Stochastic Dynamic Systems in Hilbert Spaces
Authors: Kerboua Mourad , Debbouche Amar , Baleanu Dumitru
Published: November 2013

We study a class of fractional stochastic dynamic control systems of Sobolev type in Hilbert spaces. We use fixed point technique, fractional calculus, stochastic analysis, and methods adopted directly from deterministic control problems for the main results. A new set of sufficient conditions for approximate controllability is formulated and proved. An example is also given to provide the obtained theory.
Effect of Gelam Honey on the Oxidative Stress-Induced Signaling Pathways in Pancreatic Hamster Cells
Authors: Batumalaie Kalaivani , Zaman Safi Sher , Mohd Yusof Kamaruddin , Shah Ismail Ikram , Devi Sekaran Shamala , Qvist Rajes
Published: November 2013

Background. Oxidative stress induced by reactive oxygen and nitrogen species is critically involved in the impairment ofβ-cell function during the development of diabetes.Methods. HIT-T15 cells were cultured in 5% CO2and then preincubated with Gelam honey extracts (20, 40, 60, and 80 µg/mL) as well as quercetin (20, 40, 60, and 80 µM), prior to stimulation by 20 and 50 mM of glucose. Cell lysate was collected to determine the effect of honey extracts and quercetin on the stress activated NF-κB, MAPK pathways, and the Akt (ser473) activated insulin signaling pathway.Results. HIT-T15 cells cultured under hyperglycemic conditions demonstrated insulin resistance with a significant increase in the levels of MAPK, NF-κB, and IRS-1 serine phosphorylation (ser307); however, Akt expression and insulin contents are significantly decreased. Pretreatment with quercetin and Gelam honey extract improved insulin resistance and insulin content by reducing the expression of MAPK, NF-κB, and IRS-1 serine phosphorylation (ser307) and increasing the expression of Akt significantly.Conclusion. Gelam honey-induced differential expression of MAPK, NF-κB, IRS-1 (ser307), and Akt in HIT-T15 cells shows that Gelam honey exerts protective effects against diabetes- and hyperglycemia-induced oxidative stress by improving insulin content and insulin resistance.
Proprioception in Above‐the‐Knee Amputees with Artificial Limbs
Authors: Latanioti E. P. , Angoules A. G. , Boutsikari E. C.
Published: November 2013

Purpose. To evaluate the lower limb proprioceptive sensation in patients with femoral amputation who received an artificial joint. Materials and Methods. 22 patients (18 men, 4 women), 24–65 years old (mean: 42), who had undergone above‐the‐knee joint amputation and underwent evaluation of proprioception using joint reposition in a predetermined angle of 15° knee flexion. The measurements were applied using a conventional goniometer to both amputated and healthy knees. The last ones were used as internal control. All patients performed an active knee flexion from hyperextension to 15° in a closed kinetic chain in order to evaluate proprioceptive sensation of the knee joint using the joint position sense (JPS) method during specific controllable circumstances very close to normal gait. Results. JPS at 15° flexion for the amputated knee was calculated to be equal to 13.91 (SD = ±4.74), and for the healthy side it was equal to 14.15 (SD = ±2.61). No statistically significant differences were detected between the amputated and the healthy limb (P > 0.05). Conclusions. The proprioceptive information of the stumps did not appear to be affected significantly after thigh amputation and application of artificial prosthesis when JPS at 15° was evaluated. It seems that these patients compensate the loss of the knee sensory receptors via alternative mechanisms.
Thermodynamic and Theoretical Study of the Preparation of New Buckyballs from Corannulene, Coronene, and Circulene
Authors: Obayes Hasan R. , Alwan Ghadah H. , Al-Amiery Ahmed A. , Kadhum Abdul Amir H. , Mohamad Abu Bakar
Published: November 2013

We applied density functional theory (DFT) to study three polycyclic aromatic compounds (PAHs), corannulene, coronene, and circulene, for the preparation of twelve new buckyballs with molecular dimensions of less than a nanometer. The results showed that the corannulene molecule is bowl‐shaped, the coronene molecule is planar, and the circulene molecule has a unique saddle‐shaped structure. Cyclic polymerization of the three molecules can be used to prepare new buckyballs, and this process produces hydrogen molecules. The most symmetric buckyball is also the most stable based on the values of the HOMO energy levels and has the most efficient gap energy, making it potentially useful for solar cell applications.
Adenovirus-36 Seropositivity and Its Relation with Obesity and Metabolic Profile in Children
Authors: Parra-Rojas Isela , Del Moral-Hernández Oscar , Salgado-Bernabé Aralia B. , Guzmán-Guzmán Iris P. , Salgado-Goytia Lorenzo , Muñoz-Valle José F.
Published: November 2013

The human adenovirus 36 (Ad-36) is causally and correlatively associated in animals and humans, respectively, with increased adiposity and altered metabolic profile. In previous studies, the relationship between Ad-36 seropositivity with obesity was established in adults and children. We evaluated the association of positive antibodies to Ad-36 with obesity and metabolic profile in Mexican children. Seventy-five children with normal-weight and 82 with obesity were studied in this research. All children had a clinic assessment which included weight, height, body circumferences, and skinfold thickness. Laboratory analyzes included triglycerides, total cholesterol, high-density lipoprotein, low-density lipoprotein, and glucose and insulin levels. An enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) was used to determine the antibodies to Ad-36 in the serum samples. The overall Ad-36 seroprevalence was 73.9%. Ad-36 seropositivity had a higher prevalence in obese children than in normal weight group (58.6 versus 41.4%,P=0.007). Ad-36 seropositivity was associated with obesity (OR=2.66,P=0.01) and high-density lipoprotein <40 mg/dL (OR=2.85,P=0.03). The Ad-36 seropositive group had greater risk of 4 metabolic abnormalities compared with those children without none alteration. In summary, Ad-36 seropositivity was associated with obesity and low HDL-c levels in the sample of children studied.
Effect of KIOM-79 on Diabetes-Induced Myocardial Fibrosis in Zucker Diabetic Fatty Rats
Authors: Kim Junghyun , Sohn Eunjin , Kim Chan-Sik , Lee Yun Mi , Jo Kyuhyung , Kim Jin Sook
Published: November 2013

KIOM-79, a herbal mixture of parched Puerariae radix, gingered Magnoliae cortex, Glycyrrhizae radix, and Euphorbiae radix, has a strong inhibitory effect on advanced glycation end products (AGEs) formation. We investigated the beneficial effects of KIOM-79 on cardiac fibrosis in Zucker diabetic fatty (ZDF) rats. KIOM-79 (50 or 500 mg/kg/day) was orally administered for 13 weeks. AGEs formation and collagen expression in the myocardium were assessed by immunohistochemistry. The expression levels of the receptor for AGEs (RAGE), transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1), collagen IV, fibronectin, urotensin II, and urotensin II receptor were examined in the myocardial tissue of ZDF rats. KIOM-79 treatment at 500 mg/kg inhibited the accumulation of AGEs, reduced RAGE mRNA and protein expression, and reduced the upregulation of cardiac fibrogenic factors, such as fibronectin and collagen IV, in heart of ZDF rats. Additionally, KIOM-79 ameliorated urotensin II/receptor gene expression in the cardiac tissue of ZDF rats. Our findings indicate that KIOM-79 diminishes cardiac fibrosis in ZDF rats by preventing AGEs accumulation and RAGE overexpression and by modulating the cardiac urotensin II/receptor pathway, which decreases the amount of profibrotic factors, such as TGF-β1, fibronectin, and collagen in cardiac tissue.
Spectral Criteria for Solvability of Boundary Value Problems and Positivity of Solutions of Time-Fractional Differential Equations
Authors: Keyantuo Valentin , Lizama Carlos , Warma Mahamadi
Published: November 2013

We investigate mild solutions of the fractional order nonhomogeneous Cauchy problemDtαu(t)=Au(t)+f(t),  t>0, where0<α<1.WhenAis the generator of aC0-semigroup(T(t))t≥0on a Banach spaceX, we obtain an explicit representation of mild solutions of the above problem in terms of the semigroup. We then prove that this problem under the boundary conditionu(0)=u(1)admits a unique mild solution for eachf∈C([0,1];X)if and only if the operatorI-Sα(1)is invertible. Here, we use the representationSα(t)x=∫0∞‍Φα(s)T(stα)x ds,  t>0in whichΦαis a Wright type function. For the first order case, that is,α=1, the corresponding result was proved by Prüss in 1984. In caseXis a Banach lattice and the semigroup(T(t))t≥0is positive, we obtain existence of solutions of the semilinear problemDtαu(t)=Au(t)+f(t,u(t)),t>0,0<α<1.
ER Dysfunction and Protein Folding Stress in ALS
Authors: Matus Soledad , Valenzuela Vicente , Medinas Danilo B. , Hetz Claudio
Published: November 2013

Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is the most frequent paralytic disease in adults. Most ALS cases are considered sporadic with no clear genetic component. The disruption of protein homeostasis due to chronic stress responses at the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) and the accumulation of abnormal protein inclusions are extensively described in ALS mouse models and patient-derived tissue. Recent studies using pharmacological and genetic manipulation of the unfolded protein response (UPR), an adaptive reaction against ER stress, have demonstrated a complex involvement of the pathway in experimental models of ALS. In addition, quantitative changes in ER stress-responsive chaperones in body fluids have been proposed as possible biomarkers to monitor the disease progression. Here we review most recent advances attributing a causal role of ER stress in ALS.
Lung Cancer Risk and Past Exposure to Emissions from a Large Steel Plant
Authors: Breugelmans Oscar , Ameling Caroline , Marra Marten , Fischer Paul , van de Kassteele Jan , Lijzen Johannes , Oosterlee Arie , Keuken Rinske , Visser Otto , Houthuijs Danny , van Wiechen Carla
Published: November 2013

We studied the spatial distribution of cancer incidence rates around a large steel plant and its association with historical exposure. The study population was close to 600,000. The incidence data was collected for 1995–2006. From historical emission data the air pollution concentrations for polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAH) and metals were modelled. Data were analyzed using Bayesian hierarchical Poisson regression models. The standardized incidence ratio (SIR) for lung cancer was up to 40% higher than average in postcodes located in two municipalities adjacent to the industrial area. Increased incidence rates could partly be explained by differences in socioeconomic status (SES). In the highest exposure category (approximately 45,000 inhabitants) a statistically significant increased relative risk (RR) of 1.21 (1.01–1.43) was found after adjustment for SES. The elevated RRs were similar for men and women. Additional analyses in a subsample of the population with personal smoking data from a recent survey suggested that the observed association between lung cancer and plant emission, after adjustment for SES, could still be caused by residual confounding. Therefore, we cannot indisputably conclude that past emissions from the steel plant have contributed to the increased risk of lung cancer.
Using the Virtual Reality‐Cognitive Rehabilitation Approach to Improve Contextual Processing in Children with Autism
Authors: Wang Michelle , Reid Denise
Published: November 2013

Background. This pilot study investigated the efficacy of a novel virtual reality‐cognitive rehabilitation (VR‐CR) intervention to improve contextual processing of objects in children with autism. Previous research supports that children with autism show deficits in contextual processing, as well as deficits in its elementary components: abstraction and cognitive flexibility. Methods. Four children with autism participated in a multiple‐baseline, single‐subject study. The children were taught how to see objects in context by reinforcing attention to pivotal contextual information. Results. All children demonstrated statistically significant improvements in contextual processing and cognitive flexibility. Mixed results were found on the control test and changes in context‐related behaviours. Conclusions. Larger‐scale studies are warranted to determine the effectiveness and usability in comprehensive educational programs.
Sharp Upper Bounds for the Laplacian Spectral Radius of Graphs
Authors: Zhou Houqing , Xu Youzhuan
Published: November 2013

The spectrum of the Laplacian matrix of a network plays a key role in a wide range of dynamical problems associated with the network, from transient stability analysis of power network to distributed control of formations. LetG=(V,E)be a simple connected graph onnvertices and letμ(G)be the largest Laplacian eigenvalue (i.e., the spectral radius) ofG. In this paper, by using the Cauchy-Schwarz inequality, we show that the upper bounds for the Laplacian spectral radius ofG.
Contribution to the Determination of In Vivo Mechanical Characteristics of Human Skin by Indentation Test
Authors: Abellan Marie-Angèle , Zahouani Hassan , Bergheau Jean-Michel
Published: November 2013

This paper proposes a triphasic model of intact skin in vivo based on a general phenomenological thermohydromechanical and physicochemical (THMPC) approach of heterogeneous media. The skin is seen here as a deforming stratified medium composed of four layers and made out of different fluid-saturated materials which contain also an ionic component. All the layers are treated as linear, isotropic materials described by their own behaviour law. The numerical simulations of in vivo indentation test performed on human skin are given. The numerical results correlate reasonably well with the typical observations of indented human skin. The discussion shows the versatility of this approach to obtain a better understanding on the mechanical behaviour of human skin layers separately.
Application of Electron Beam Melting to the Removal of Phosphorus from Silicon: Toward Production of Solar-Grade Silicon by Metallurgical Processes
Authors: Sasaki Hideaki , Kobashi Yoshifumi , Nagai Takashi , Maeda Masafumi
Published: November 2013

Removal methods of impurity from metallurgical-grade silicon (Si) are intensively studied to produce solar-grade silicon (SoG-Si) with a smaller economical load and lower cost. Removal of phosphorus (P) has been an important issue because of difficulties in application of conventional metallurgical methods such as solidification refining. Because P evaporates preferentially from molten Si due to its high vapor pressure, electron beam (EB) melting has been applied to the purification of Si. The evaporation of impurity P from Si is considered based on previous thermodynamic investigations here, and several research reports on EB melting of Si are reviewed.
Relationship between Platelet PPARs, cAMP Levels, and P-Selectin Expression: Antiplatelet Activity of Natural Products
Authors: Fuentes Eduardo , Palomo Iván
Published: November 2013

Platelets are no longer considered simply as cells participating in thrombosis. In atherosclerosis, platelets are regulators of multiple processes, with the recruitment of inflammatory cells towards the lesion sites, inflammatory mediators release, and regulation of endothelial function. The antiplatelet therapy has been used for a long time in an effort to prevent and treat cardiovascular diseases. However, limited efficacy in some patients, drug resistance, and side effects are limitations of current antiplatelet therapy. In this context, a large number of natural products (polyphenols, terpenoids, alkaloids, and fatty acids) have been reported with antiplatelet activity. In this sense, the present paper describes mechanisms of antiplatelet action of natural products on platelet P-selectin expression through cAMP levels and its role as peroxisome proliferator-activated receptors agonists.
Lectin fromCrataeva tapiaBark Improves Tissue Damages and Plasma Hyperglycemia in Alloxan-Induced Diabetic Mice
Authors: Rocha Amanda Alves da , Araújo Tiago Ferreira da Silva , Fonseca Caíque Silveira Martins da , Mota Diógenes Luís da , Medeiros Paloma Lys de , Paiva Patrícia Maria Guedes , Coelho Luana Cassandra Breitenbach Barroso , Correia Maria Tereza dos Santos , Lima Vera Lúcia de Menezes
Published: November 2013

Crataeva tapiais a plant popularly used for diabetes treatment, in Brazil. Progressive decline in renal and hepatic functions has been described in patients with diabetes mellitus, and mortality rate is increased in patients with chronic liver and renal disease. This study aimed to evaluate whetherCrataeva tapiabark lectin (CrataBL) improves hyperglycemia and renal and hepatic damage in diabetic mice. CrataBL was purified by ion exchange chromatography on CM-cellulose, and intraperitoneal administration of CrataBL to alloxan-induced diabetic mice at dose of 10 mg/Kg/day and 20 mg/Kg/day for 10 days significantly reduced serum glucose levels by 14.9% and 55.9%, respectively. Serum urea, creatinine, aspartate aminotransferase, and alanine aminotransferase were also significantly reduced after treatment with both doses of CrataBL. Furthermore, histological analysis of liver, kidney, and pancreas revealed an improvement in the tissue morphology upon treatment with CrataBL. The results suggest that CrataBL has a beneficial hypoglycemic activity and improves the renal and hepatic complications of diabetes. Therefore, this lectin may be a promising agent for the treatment of diabetes, and this might be the basis for its use in the folk medicine as an alternative treatment to manage diabetes-related complications such as hyperglycemia and tissue damage.
Thin Film Heater for Removable Volatile Protecting Coatings
Authors: Karim Abid
Published: November 2013

Freshly coated aluminum mirrors have excellent reflectivity at far ultraviolet wavelengths. However, reflectivity rapidly degrades when the mirror surfaces are exposed to atmosphere. In order to avoid this problem, freshly coated aluminum surface can be protected by over‐coating of a removable volatile protecting coating. This protecting coating can be re‐evaporated by controlled heating or by some other methods when required. This type of removable coating has immediate application in UV space astronomy. The purpose of this paper is to demonstrate the feasibility of re‐evaporation of removable volatile Zn protecting coating using a NiCr thin film heater without affecting the reflection properties of Al mirror surfaces.
Complementary Therapies in Allergic Rhinitis
Authors: Sayin Ibrahim , Cingi Cemal , Oghan Fatih , Baykal Bahadir , Ulusoy Seckin
Published: November 2013

Objective. To determine the prevalence of herbal treatment of allergic rhinitis. Methods. In this prospective study, patients who were diagnosed with perennial allergic rhinitis were questioned about their use of natural products/herbal therapies for their symptoms. Results. In total, 230 patients were enrolled. Overall, 37.3% of the patients stated that they had used natural products/herbal therapies at least once. Women were more likely than men to use herbal supplements (38.3% versus 32.4%). Ten different types of herbal supplements were identified, with stinging nettle (Urtica dioicath), black elderberry (Sambucus nigra), and Spirulina being the most common (12.6%, 6.1%, and 5.7%, resp.). Conclusion. This study found a high prevalence of herbal treatment usage for the relief of allergic rhinitis symptoms in Turkey. The herbal products identified in this study and in the literature are discussed.
Mesoporous Metal‐Containing Carbon Nitrides for Improved Photocatalytic Activities
Authors: Luo Jie , Cui Zhao-Jie , Zang Guo-Long
Published: November 2013

Graphitic carbon nitrides (g‐C3N4) have attracted increasing interest due to their unusual properties and promising applications in water splitting, heterogeneous catalysis, and organic contaminant degradation. In this study, a new method was developed for the synthesis of mesoporous Fe contained g‐C3N4 (m‐Fe‐C3N4) photocatalyst by using SiO2 nanoparticles as hard template and dicyandiamide as precursor. The physicochemical properties of m‐Fe‐C3N4 were thoroughly investigated. The XRD and XPS results indicated that Fe was strongly coordinated with the g‐C3N4 matrix and that the doping and mesoporous structure partially deteriorated its crystalline structure. The UV‐visible absorption spectra revealed that m‐Fe‐C3N4 with a unique electronic structure displays an increased band gap in combination with a slightly reduced absorbance, implying that mesoporous structure modified the electronic properties of g‐Fe‐C3N4. The photocatalytic activity of m‐Fe‐C3N4 for photodegradation of Rhodamine B (RhB) was much higher than that of g‐Fe‐C3N4, clearly demonstrating porous structure positive effect.
Gene Structures, Classification, and Expression Models of the DREB Transcription Factor Subfamily in Populus trichocarpa
Authors: Chen Yunlin , Yang Jingli , Wang Zhanchao , Zhang Haizhen , Mao Xuliang , Li Chenghao
Published: November 2013

We identified 75 dehydration‐responsive element‐binding (DREB) protein genes in Populus trichocarpa. We analyzed gene structures, phylogenies, domain duplications, genome localizations, and expression profiles. The phylogenic construction suggests that the PtrDREB gene subfamily can be classified broadly into six subtypes (DREB A‐1 to A‐6) in Populus. The chromosomal localizations of the PtrDREB genes indicated 18 segmental duplication events involving 36 genes and six redundant PtrDREB genes were involved in tandem duplication events. There were fewer introns in the PtrDREB subfamily. The motif composition of PtrDREB was highly conserved in the same subtype. We investigated expression profiles of this gene subfamily from different tissues and/or developmental stages. Sixteen genes present in the digital expression analysis had high levels of transcript accumulation. The microarray results suggest that 18 genes were upregulated. We further examined the stress responsiveness of 15 genes by qRT‐PCR. A digital northern analysis showed that the PtrDREB17, 18, and 32 genes were highly induced in leaves under cold stress, and the same expression trends were shown by qRT‐PCR. Taken together, these observations may lay the foundation for future functional analyses to unravel the biological roles of Populus’ DREB genes.
6-C-(E-phenylethenyl)-Naringenin Suppresses Colorectal Cancer Growth by Inhibiting Cyclooxygenase-1
Authors: Li Haitao , Zhu Feng , Chen Hanyong , Cheng Ka Wing , Zykova Tatyana , Oi Naomi , Lubet Ronald A. , Bode Ann M. , Wang Mingfu , Dong Zigang
Published: November 2013

Recent clinical trials raised concerns regarding the cardiovascular toxicity of selective cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) inhibitors and cyclooxygenase-1 (COX-1) is now being reconsidered as a target for chemoprevention. Our aims were to determine whether selective COX-1 inhibition could delay or prevent cancer development and also clarify the underlying mechanisms. Data clearly showed that COX-1 was required for maintenance of malignant characteristics of colon cancer cells or tumor promoter-induced transformation of preneoplastic cells. We also successfully applied a ligand-docking computational method to identify a novel selective COX-1 inhibitor, 6-C-(E-phenylethenyl)-naringenin (designated herein as 6CEPN). 6CEPN could bind to COX-1 and specifically inhibited its activity both in vitro and ex vivo. In colorectal cancer cells, it potently suppressed anchorage-independent growth by inhibiting COX-1 activity. 6CEPN also effectively suppressed tumor growth in a 28-day colon cancer xenograft model without any obvious systemic toxicity. Taken together, COX-1 plays a critical role in human colorectal carcinogenesis, and this specific COX-1 inhibitor merits further investigation as a potential preventive agent against colorectal cancer. Cancer Res; 74(1); 243–52. ©2013 AACR.
A Genome-Wide Association Study of Renal Cell Carcinoma among African Americans
Authors: Purdue Mark P. , Ye Yuanqing , Wang Zhaoming , Colt Joanne S. , Schwartz Kendra L. , Davis Faith G. , Rothman Nathaniel , Chow Wong-Ho , Wu Xifeng , Chanock Stephen J.
Published: November 2013

Genome-wide association studies (GWAS) of renal cell carcinoma (RCC) in populations of European ancestry have identified four susceptibility loci. No GWAS has been conducted among African Americans (AA), who experience a higher incidence of RCC. We conducted a GWAS in which we analyzed 1,136,723 common single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNP) among 255 cases and 375 controls of African ancestry, and further investigated 16 SNPs in a replication set (140 cases and 543 controls). The 12p11.23 variant rs10771279, located 77 kb from the European-ancestry RCC marker rs718314, was associated with RCC risk in the GWAS (P = 1.2 × 10−7) but did not replicate (P = 0.99). Consistent with European-ancestry findings, the A allele of rs7105934 on 11q13.3 was associated with decreased risk [OR, 0.76, 95% confidence interval (CI), 0.64–0.91; P = 0.0022]. The frequency of this allele was higher than that observed in the European-ancestry GWAS (0.56 and 0.07, respectively, among controls). The rs7105934 association was stronger for clear cell RCC (ccRCC: OR, 0.56; P = 7.4 × 10−7) and absent for cases of other or unknown histology (OR, 1.02; P = 0.86). Analyses of rs7105934 by subtype among European-ancestry participants from these studies yielded similar findings (ORs 0.69 and 0.92, respectively). This study provides, to our knowledge, the first evidence that rs7105934 is an RCC susceptibility locus among AAs. Our finding that the association with this SNP may be specific to clear-cell RCC is novel and requires additional investigation. Additional investigation of rs10771279 and other suggestive GWAS findings is also needed. Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev; 23(1); 209–14. ©2013 AACR.
Lappaol F, a Novel Anticancer Agent Isolated from PlantArctium LappaL.
Authors: Sun Qing , Liu Kanglun , Shen Xiaoling , Jin Weixin , Jiang Lingyan , Saeed Sheikh M. , Hu Yingjie , Huang Ying
Published: November 2013

In an effort to search for new cancer-fighting therapeutics, we identified a novel anticancer constituent, Lappaol F, from plant Arctium Lappa L. Lappaol F suppressed cancer cell growth in a time- and dose-dependent manner in human cancer cell lines of various tissue types. We found that Lappaol F induced G1 and G2 cell-cycle arrest, which was associated with strong induction of p21 and p27 and reduction of cyclin B1 and cyclin-dependent kinase 1 (CDK1). Depletion of p21 via genetic knockout or short hairpin RNA (shRNA) approaches significantly abrogated Lappaol F–mediated G2 arrest and CDK1 and cyclin B1 suppression. These results suggest that p21 seems to play a crucial role in Lappaol F–mediated regulation of CDK1 and cyclin B1 and G2 arrest. Lappaol F–mediated p21 induction was found to occur at the mRNA level and involved p21 promoter activation. Lappaol F was also found to induce cell death in several cancer cell lines and to activate caspases. In contrast with its strong growth inhibitory effects on tumor cells, Lappaol F had minimal cytotoxic effects on nontumorigenic epithelial cells tested. Importantly, our data also demonstrate that Lappaol F exhibited strong growth inhibition of xenograft tumors in nude mice. Lappaol F was well tolerated in treated animals without significant toxicity. Taken together, our results, for the first time, demonstrate that Lappaol F exhibits antitumor activity in vitro and in vivo and has strong potential to be developed as an anticancer therapeutic. Mol Cancer Ther; 13(1); 49–59. ©2013 AACR.
Sonoelastography as Method for Preliminary Evaluation of Uterine Cervix to Predict Success of Induction of Labor
Authors: Muscatello A. , Di Nicola M. , Accurti V. , Mastrocola N. , Franchi V. , Colagrande I. , Patacchiola F. , Carta G.
Published: November 2013

Introduction: Induction of labor is a useful practice to solve many obstetric situations but has a large impact on the health of women and their babies and therefore needs to be clearly justified clinically. Aim: To determine the sensitivity of sonoelastography in the evaluation of the cervix to predict the success of induction. Materials and Methods: We enrolled 53 subjects preparing for induction of labor. Transvaginal evaluation of cervical length and a sonoelastogram were performed. We preliminarily classified the sonoelastograms into five elastography index (EI) categories and examined the different distribution of cesarean or spontaneous deliveries in various subgroups of EI by χ2 test and multivariate analysis by logistic regression. Results: Statistical analysis revealed a significant difference of prevalence of spontaneous delivery (EI1-3 82.75%, EI4-5 45.8%) versus cesarean section (EI1-3 17.25%, EI4-5 54.16%) (p = 0.0072). The diagnostic validity of EI was evaluated using the receiver operating characteristic curve and cut-off of the predictive value was EI3. Discussion: The results of our study indicate that sonoelastography is an innovative technique that could allow a more objective preliminary evaluation of the cervix before inducing labor, however further studies with a larger number of subjects and a standardization of image acquisition are necessary.
A Rapid Gene-Based Genome-Wide Association Test with Multivariate Traits
Authors: Basu Saonli , Zhang Yiwei , Ray Debashree , Miller Michael B. , Iacono William G. , McGue Matt
Published: November 2013

Objectives: A gene-based genome-wide association study (GWAS) provides a powerful alternative to the traditional single single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) association analysis due to its substantial reduction in the multiple testing burden and possible gain in power due to modeling multiple SNPs within a gene. A gene-based association analysis on multivariate traits is often of interest, but it imposes substantial analytical as well as computational challenges to implement it at a genome-wide level. Methods: We propose a rapid implementation of the multivariate multiple linear regression (RMMLR) approach in unrelated individuals as well as in families. Our approach allows for covariates. Moreover, the asymptotic distribution of the test statistic is not heavily influenced by the linkage disequilibrium (LD) among the SNPs and hence can be used efficiently to perform a gene-based GWAS. We have developed a corresponding R package to implement such multivariate gene-based GWAS with this RMMLR approach. Results: Through extensive simulation, we compared several approaches for both single and multivariate traits. Our RMMLR approach maintained a correct type I error level even for sets of SNPs in strong LD. It also demonstrated a substantial gain in power to detect a gene when it is associated with a subset of the traits. We also studied performances of the approaches on the Minnesota Center for Twin Family Research dataset. Conclusions: In our overall comparison, our RMMLR approach provides an efficient and powerful tool to perform a gene-based GWAS with single or multivariate traits and maintains the type I error appropriately.
Glutathione Is a Low-Affinity Substrate of the Human Sodium-Dependent Dicarboxylate Transporter
Authors: Schorbach Lena , Krick Wolfgang , Burckhardt Gerhard , Burckhardt Birgitta C.
Published: November 2013

Background/Aims: During a single pass through the kidneys, more than 80% of glutathione (GSH) is excreted, indicating not only glomerular filtration, but also tubular secretion. The first step in tubular secretion is the uptake of a substance across the basolateral membrane of proximal tubule cells by sodium-dependent and -independent transporters. Due to the dicarboxylate-like structure, we postulated that GSH uptake across the basolateral membrane is mediated by the sodium-dependent dicarboxylate transporter 3 (NaDC3). Methods: Tracer uptake and electrophysiologic measurements using a two-electrode voltage clamp device were performed in Xenopus laevis oocytes expressing the human (h)NaDC3. Results: Uptake of succinate, the reference substrate of hNaDC3, was inhibited by GSH in a dose-dependent manner with an IC50 of 1.88 mM. GSH evoked potential-dependent inward currents, which were abolished under sodium-free conditions. At -60 mV, GSH currents showed saturation kinetics with a KM of 1.65 mM. Conclusion: hNaDC3 present at the basolateral membrane of proximal tubule cells mediates sodium-dependent GSH uptake. The kinetic data show that NaDC3 is a low-affinity GSH transporter.
Differences in the Profile, Treatment, and Prognosis of Patients With Cardiogenic Shock by Myocardial Infarction Classification
Authors: Anderson Monique L. , Peterson Eric D. , Peng S. Andrew , Wang Tracy Y. , Ohman E. Magnus , Bhatt Deepak L. , Saucedo Jorge F. , Roe Matthew T.
Published: November 2013

Background—

Cardiogenic shock is a deadly complication of an acute myocardial infarction (MI). We sought to characterize differences in patient features, treatments, and outcomes of cardiogenic shock by MI classification: ST–segment-elevation MI (STEMI) versus non–ST-segment elevation MI (NSTEMI).

Methods and Results—

We compared differences in care by the shock status of 235 541 patients with STEMI and NSTEMI treated at 392 US hospitals from 2007 to 2011. Cardiogenic shock occurred in 12.2% of patients with STEMI versus 4.3% of patients with NSTEMI. Compared with STEMI shock, NSTEMI shock was more likely in patients who were older and predominantly women; had diabetes mellitus, hypertension, previous heart failure, MI, or peripheral arterial disease; and who received coronary artery bypass grafting (11.6% versus 21.2%;
P
<0.0001) but less likely to have received percutaneous coronary intervention (84.2% versus 35.3%;
P
<0.0001). Compared with patients with STEMI presenting with shock at admission, patients with NSTEMI presenting with shock had longer delays to percutaneous coronary intervention (1.2 versus 3.2 hours) and coronary artery bypass grafting (7.9 versus 55.9 hours). Cardiogenic shock in patients with STEMI was associated with a lower mortality risk (33.1% shock versus 2.0% no shock; adjusted odds ratio, 14.1; 95% confidence interval, 13.0–15.4; interaction
P
value <0.0001) compared with patients with NSTEMI (40.8% shock versus 2.3% no shock, odds ratio, 19.0; 95% confidence interval, 17.1–21.2).

Conclusions—

Cardiogenic shock is associated with high mortality in patients with STEMI and NSTEMI. However, urgent revascularization is more commonly pursued in patients with STEMI presenting with shock than in patients with NSTEMI. More research is needed to improve the outcomes for patients with MI presenting with shock, particularly those presenting with NSTEMI.