bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
COMPARISONS OF NANOPARTICLE PROTEIN CORONA COMPLEXES ISOLATED WITH DIFFERENT METHODS
Authors: MONOPOLI MARCO P. , WAN SHA , BOMBELLI FRANCESCA BALDELLI , MAHON EUGENE , DAWSON KENNETH A.
Published: September 2013

Nanoparticles, after incubation in biological fluids, adsorb several kinds of biomolecules like lipids, sugars and mainly proteins with high affinities for the nanoparticle surface and with long residence time, forming the so-called hard corona. The biological machinery, such as cellular barriers and membrane receptors can directly engage with the protein corona while the pristine surface may remain inaccessible. Here we isolate nanoparticles associated with strongly bound biomolecules from the unbound and loosely bound ones, by different approaches: centrifugation, size exclusion chromatography and magnetic isolation. The different separation methodologies, despite requiring diverse time and operating mechanisms, gave nanoparticle-hard corona complexes which were found to be remarkably similar in both dispersion properties and protein composition thus proving to be equally valid.
SYNTHESIS AND ELECTROCHEMICAL PROPERTIES OF POLY-[2, 5-DI-N-(2, 2, 6, 6-TETRAMETHYL-4-PIPERIDINE–N-OXYL) BENZAMIDE] ANILINE AS A CATHODE MATERIAL FOR LITHIUM-ION BATTERIES
Authors: GUO WEI , YIN YA-XIA , YAN HUI-JUAN , GUO YU-GUO
Published: September 2013

Novel TEMPO radical grafted PANI [polymer (3)] was synthesized from 2,5-dicarboxyaniline by two-step process, and investigated with Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, electron spin resonance spectra, thermogravimetric analysis, scanning electron microscopy, cyclic voltammograms, and galvanostatic charge–discharge techniques. The polymer (3) shows six-electron redox reaction process in the voltage ranges of 2.0–4.0 V versus Li +/ Li . A high specific capacity of 156 mA h g−1 is obtained in the experiment, close to half of the theoretical capacity of the polymer based on six-electron redox reaction (330 mA h g−1. The polymer (3) also exhibits good rate capability and cycle life. The excellent electrochemical properties benefit from fast redox reaction of nitroxy radical and conductive polyaniline nanotubes structure.
Non-thermal, pulsed electric field cell ablation: A novel tool for regenerative medicine and scarless skin regeneration
Authors: Golberg Alexander , Broelsch G. Felix , Bohr Stefan , Mihm Martin C. , Austen William G. , Albadawi Hassan , Watkins Michael T. , Yarmush Martin L.
Published: September 2013

High voltage, short pulsed electric fields (PEF) is a non-thermal ablation method, in which defined PEF irreversibly destabilize cell membranes, while preserving other tissue components such as the extracellular matrix (ECM). In the present report, we show that PEF ablated rat skin retains its microvascular blood supply and ECM structure. Complete regeneration of epidermis, hair follicles, sebaceous glands, and the panniculus carnosusis observed two months after the ablation. Our results clearly indicate that non-thermal PEF has the potential to be a powerful and novel tool for scarless tissue regeneration.
Antiadherent and Antibiofilm Activity ofHumulus lupulusL. Derived Products: New Pharmacological Properties
Authors: Rozalski Marcin , Micota Bartlomiej , Sadowska Beata , Stochmal Anna , Jedrejek Dariusz , Wieckowska-Szakiel Marzena , Rozalska Barbara
Published: September 2013

New antimicrobial properties of products derived fromHumulus lupulusL. such as antiadherent and antibiofilm activities were evaluated. The growth of gram-positive but not gram-negative bacteria was inhibited to different extents by these compounds. An extract of hop cones containing 51% xanthohumol was slightly less active againstS. aureusstrains (MIC range 31.2–125.0 μg/mL) than pure xanthohumol (MIC range 15.6–62.5 μg/mL). The spent hop extract, free of xanthohumol, exhibited lower but still relevant activity (MIC range 1-2 mg/mL). There were positive coactions of hop cone, spent hop extracts, and xanthohumol with oxacillin against MSSA and with linezolid against MSSA and MRSA. Plant compounds in the culture medium at sub-MIC concentrations decreased the adhesion ofStaphylococcito abiotic surfaces, which in turn caused inhibition of biofilm formation. The rate of mature biofilm eradication by these products was significant. The spent hop extract at MIC reduced biofilm viability by 42.8%, the hop cone extract by 74.8%, and pure xanthohumol by 86.5%. When the hop cone extract or xanthohumol concentration was increased, almost complete biofilm eradication was achieved (97–99%). This study reveals the potent antibiofilm activity of hop-derived compounds for the first time.
Aryl Hydrocarbon Receptor Ligands Inhibit IGF-II and Adipokine Stimulated Breast Cancer Cell Proliferation
Authors: Salisbury Travis B. , Morris Gary Z. , Tomblin Justin K. , Chaudhry Ateeq R. , Cook Carla R. , Santanam Nalini
Published: September 2013

Obesity increases human cancer risk and the risk for cancer recurrence. Adipocytes secrete paracrine factors termed adipokines that stimulate signaling in cancer cells that induce proliferation. The aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AHR) is a ligand-activated transcription factor that plays roles in tumorigenesis, is regulated by exogenous lipophilic chemicals, and has been explored as a therapeutic target for cancer therapy. Whether exogenous AHR ligands modulate adipokine stimulated breast cancer cell proliferation has not been investigated. We provide evidence that adipocytes secrete insulin-like growth factor 2 (IGF-2) at levels that stimulate the proliferation of human estrogen receptor (ER) positive breast cancer cells. Using highly specific AHR ligands and AHR short interfering RNA (AHR-siRNA), we show that specific ligand-activated AHR inhibits adipocyte secretome and IGF-2-stimulated breast cancer cell proliferation. We also report that a highly specific AHR agonist significantly (P<0.05) inhibits the expression of E2F1, CCND1 (known as Cyclin D1), MYB, SRC, JAK2, and JUND in breast cancer cells. Collectively, these data suggest that drugs that target the AHR may be useful for treating cancer in human obesity.
Observations of Resource Use by the Threatened Diana Fritillary Butterfly (Speyeria diana) in the Southern Appalachian Mountains, USA
Authors: Wells Carrie N. , Smith Eric A.
Published: September 2013

We present four summers (2006–2009) of field observations of the Diana fritillary, Speyeria diana (Cramer, 1777), throughout the Southern Appalachian Mountains, USA, in the eastern portion of its distribution. We describe our observations of resource use by S. diana in sites located in Georgia, Tennessee, South Carolina, North Carolina, and Virginia. Butterflies imbibed nectar from five genera (>11 species) of flowering plants and also imbibed liquid from dirt roads and horse manure. The majority of butterflies (57%) were observed feeding on milkweed, Asclepias spp., a high-quality nectar-producing plant which is known to be an important resource for many Lepidoptera. We documented 14 species of Viola spp., the larval host plant used by Speyeria, in our survey sites. All butterflies were marked to observe their movement. Recapture rates ranged from 17% to 56%, suggesting that dispersal of S. diana out of suitable habitat was somewhat limited.
Gradient Evolution of Body Colouration in Surface- and Cave-DwellingPoecilia mexicanaand the Role of Phenotype-Assortative Female Mate Choice
Authors: Bierbach David , Penshorn Marina , Hamfler Sybille , Herbert Denise B. , Appel Jessica , Meyer Philipp , Slattery Patrick , Charaf Sarah , Wolf Raoul , Völker Johannes , Berger Elisabeth A. M. , Dröge Janis , Wolf Konstantin , Riesch Rüdiger , Arias-Rodriguez Lenin , Indy Jeanne R. , Plath Martin
Published: September 2013

Ecological speciation assumes reproductive isolation to be the product of ecologically based divergent selection. Beside natural selection, sexual selection via phenotype-assortative mating is thought to promote reproductive isolation. Using the neotropical fishPoecilia mexicanafrom a system that has been described to undergo incipient ecological speciation in adjacent, but ecologically divergent habitats characterized by the presence or absence of toxic H2S and darkness in cave habitats, we demonstrate a gradual change in male body colouration along the gradient of light/darkness, including a reduction of ornaments that are under both inter- and intrasexual selection in surface populations. In dichotomous choice tests using video-animated stimuli, we found surface females to prefer males from their own population over the cave phenotype. However, female cave fish, observed on site via infrared techniques, preferred to associate with surface males rather than size-matched cave males, likely reflecting the female preference for better-nourished (in this case: surface) males. Hence, divergent selection on body colouration indeed translates into phenotype-assortative mating in the surface ecotype, by selecting against potential migrant males. Female cave fish, by contrast, do not have a preference for the resident male phenotype, identifying natural selection against migrants imposed by the cave environment as the major driver of the observed reproductive isolation.
Acupuncture and Moxibustion for Inflammatory Bowel Diseases: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials
Authors: Ji Jun , Lu Yuan , Liu Huirong , Feng Hui , Zhang Fuqing , Wu Luyi , Cui Yunhua , Wu Huangan
Published: September 2013

Background. Inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD) are recurrent and refractory which include ulcerative colitis (UC) and Crohn’s disease (CD). Clinical researches about acupuncture and moxibustion treatments for IBD are increasing, while systematic reviews about their efficacy remains in a shortage. This study sought to evaluate the efficacy of acupuncture and moxibustion for IBD.Methods. Seven significant databases both in and abroad were searched for randomized controlled trials (RCTs) which compared acupuncture and moxibustion as the main intervention to pharmacotherapy in treating IBD. A meta-analysis was performed.Results. A total of 43 RCTs were included. Among the 43 included trials, 10 trials compared oral sulphasalazine (SASP) with acupuncture and/or moxibustion treatments. A meta-analysis of the 10 trials indicated that acupuncture and moxibustion therapy was superior to oral SASP.Conclusion. Acupuncture and moxibustion therapy demonstrates better efficacy than oral SASP in treating IBD. However, given the limitations of this systematic review and the included literature, definitive conclusions regarding the exact efficacy of acupuncture and moxibustion treatment for IBD cannot be drawn. Extant RCTs still cannot provide sufficient evidence and multicentre, double-blind RCTs with large sample sizes are needed to provide higher-quality evidence.
Charge Transport in 1-D Nanostructured CdS Dye Sensitized Solar Cell
Authors: Ragam M. , Sankar N. , Ramachandran K.
Published: September 2013

Charge transport in eosin yellow sensitized CdS 1-D nanostructures is studied. Direct conduction pathway for electron transport in nanowires enhances Voc in CdS nanowires compared to nanorods and nanoparticles. J-V characterization of nanowires results in improved efficiency of 0.184% due to fewer interparticle connections. Increase in Jsc is observed by coating CdS 1-D nanostructures on TiO2 substrate which reduces rate of recombination and photocorrosive nature of CdS photoanodes. Enhancement in efficiency up to 0.501% is achieved for CdS 1-D nanostructures DSSCs on TiO2 substrate.
Navigation-Assisted Total Knee Arthroplasty for Osteoarthritis with Extra-Articular Femoral Deformity and/or Retained Hardware
Authors: Hamada Daisuke , Egawa Hiroshi , Goto Tomohiro , Takasago Tomoya , Takai Michihiro , Hirano Tetsuya , Kawasaki Yoshiteru , Yasui Natsuo
Published: September 2013

Total knee arthroplasty (TKA) for osteoarthritis (OA) patients with extra-articular deformity is still challenging because angular deformity, canal sclerosis, or the retained hardware that precludes the use of the traditional intramedullary guide. In addition, atypical bone cut for intra-articular correction leads to imbalanced soft tissue gap. Furthermore, corrective osteotomy should be considered for severe deformity or para-articular deformity cases. Recently, navigation-assisted TKA has been reported to increase the accuracy of prosthetic positioning and limb alignment. This system can calculate mechanical axis regardless of extra-articular deformity, canal sclerosis, or retained hardware. Accordingly, navigation surgery has been considered to be a powerful option especially in TKAs with extra-articular deformity cases. Here, we report 3 successful navigation-assisted TKAs for osteoarthritis with extra-articular deformities and/or retained hardware. Navigation-assisted TKA is an effective and reliable alternative for patients with extra-articular deformities.
The Pyridoxal 5′-Phosphate (PLP)-Dependent Enzyme Serine Palmitoyltransferase (SPT): Effects of the Small Subunits and Insights from Bacterial Mimics of Human hLCB2a HSAN1 Mutations
Authors: Beattie Ashley E. , Gupta Sita D. , Frankova Lenka , Kazlauskaite Agne , Harmon Jeffrey M. , Dunn Teresa M. , Campopiano Dominic J.
Published: September 2013

The pyridoxal 5′-phosphate (PLP)-dependent enzyme serine palmitoyltransferase (SPT) catalyses the first step ofde novosphingolipid biosynthesis. The core human enzyme is a membrane-bound heterodimer composed of two subunits (hLCB1 and hLCB2a/b), and mutations in both hLCB1 (e.g., C133W and C133Y) and hLCB2a (e.g., V359M, G382V, and I504F) have been identified in patients with hereditary sensory and autonomic neuropathy type I (HSAN1), an inherited disorder that affects sensory and autonomic neurons. These mutations result in substrate promiscuity, leading to formation of neurotoxic deoxysphingolipids found in affected individuals. Here we measure the activities of the hLCB2a mutants in the presence of ssSPTa and ssSPTb and find that all decrease enzyme activity. High resolution structural data of the homodimeric SPT enzyme from the bacteriumSphingomonas paucimobilis(SpSPT) provides a model to understand the impact of the hLCB2a mutations on the mechanism of SPT. The three human hLCB2a HSAN1 mutations map ontoSpSPT (V246M, G268V, and G385F), and these mutant mimics reveal that the amino acid changes have varying impacts; they perturb the PLP cofactor binding, reduce the affinity for both substrates, decrease the enzyme activity, and, in the most severe case, cause the protein to be expressed in an insoluble form.
High Reliable Relay Selection Approach for QoS Provisioning in Wireless Distributed Sensor Networks
Authors: Jin Yong
Published: September 2013

In wireless distributed sensor networks, one open problem is how to guarantee the reliable relay selection based on the quality of services diversity. To address this problem, we focus on the reliable adaptive relay selection approach and adaptive QoS supported algorithm,

based on which we present a Markov chain model, in consideration of different packet states and error control algorithm assignment. The mathematical analyses and NS-2 simulation results show that the proposed relay selection approach could perform better in terms of saturation throughput, reliability, and energy efficiency, compared with the traditional approaches. More importantly, the quality of real-time multimedia streaming is improved significantly, in terms of decodable frame ratio and delay.
Effects of Aging Treatment on Laser-Welded Mg-Rare Earth Alloy NZ30K
Authors: Dai Jun , Yang Li , Li Lili , Guo Guolin , Guo Lanzhong
Published: September 2013

Magnesium-rare earth alloys have received extensive attention due to their attractive mechanical properties resulting from high density of precipitation. The precipitation sequence in laser-welded Mg-3Nd-0.2Zn-0.4Zr (NZ30K) alloy during aging treatment at 200°C and 225°C has been investigated using transmission electron microscopy (TEM). The results indicate that the tensile strength of laser-welded NZ30K can be improved significantly after aging treatment at 200°C for 8 h. It is found that the precipitation in laser-welded NZ30K alloy follows the sequence of supersaturated solid solution → β′′(DO19) → β′(fcc).
A Sharp Bound for the Čebyšev Functional of Convex or Concave Functions
Authors: Alomari Mohammad W.
Published: September 2013

A sharp bound for the Čebyšev functional of convex or concave functions is proved.
Detection of Mycobacterium avium Subspecies Paratuberculosis from Intestinal and Nodal Tissue of Dogs and Cats
Authors: KuKanich Kate S. , Vinasco Javier , Scott H. Morgan
Published: September 2013

Objective. To determine prevalence of MAP in intestinal and nodal tissue from dogs and cats at necropsy at Kansas State University and to determine if an association existed between presence of MAP and gastrointestinal inflammation, clinical signs, or rural exposure. Procedures. Tissue samples were collected from the duodenum, ileum, and mesenteric and colic nodes of adult dogs (73) and cats (37) undergoing necropsy for various reasons. DNA was extracted and analyzed for insertion sequence 900 using nested PCR. Positive samples were confirmed with DNA sequencing. An online mapping system was used to determine if patients lived in an urban or rural environment based on the home address. Medical records were reviewed for clinical signs and histological findings at necropsy. Results. MAP was identified from 3/73 (4.1%) dogs and 3/37 (8.1%) cats. There was no documented association between presence of MAP and identification of histologic-confirmed gastrointestinal inflammation, gastrointestinal clinical signs, or exposure to a rural environment. Conclusion and Clinical Relevance. MAP-specific DNA can be identified within the intestinal and nodal tissue of dogs and cats that do not have pathological lesions or clinical signs consistent with gastrointestinal disease. The significance of this organism’s presence without associated gastrointestinal pathology is unknown.
16S rRNA PCR-Denaturing Gradient Gel Electrophoresis of Oral Lactobacillus casei Group and Their Phenotypic Appearances
Authors: Piwat S. , Teanpaisan R.
Published: September 2013

This study aimed to develop a 16S rRNA PCR-denaturing gradient gel electrophoresis (DGGE) to identify the species level of Lactobacillus casei group and to investigate their characteristics of acid production and inhibitory effect. PCR-DGGE has been developed based on the 16S rRNA gene, and a set of HDA-1-GC and HDA-2, designed at V2-V3 region, and another set of CARP-1-GC and CARP-2, designed at V1 region, have been used. The bacterial strains included L. casei ATCC 393, L. paracasei CCUG 32212, L. rhamnosus ATCC 7469, L. zeae CCUG 35515, and 46 clinical strains of L. casei/paracasei/rhamnosus. Inhibitory effect against Streptococcus mutans and acid production were examined. Results revealed that each type species strain and identified clinical isolate showed its own unique DGGE pattern using CARP1-GC and CARP2 primers. HDA1-GC and HDA2 primers could distinguish the strains of L. paracasei from L. casei. It was found that inhibitory effect of L. paracasei was stronger than L. casei and L. rhamnosus. The acid production of L. paracasei was lower than L. casei and L. rhamnosus. In conclusion, the technique has been proven to be able to differentiate between closely related species in L. casei group and thus provide reliable information of their phenotypic appearances.
Biobanking in a Constantly Developing Medical World
Authors: Artene Stefan-Alexandru , Ciurea Marius Eugen , Purcaru Stefana Oana , Tache Daniela Elise , Tataranu Ligia Gabriela , Lupu Mihaela , Dricu Anica
Published: September 2013

Biobank is a very sophisticated system that consists of a programmed storage of biological material and corresponding data. Biobanks are created to be used in medical research, in clinical and translational medicine, and in healthcare. In the past 20 years, a large number of biobanks have been set up around the world, to support the modern research directions in medicine such as omix and personalized medicine. More recently, embryonic and adult stem cell banks have been developed. Stem cell banking was reported to be required for medical research as well as clinical transplant applications. The quality of the samples stored in a biobank is very important. The standardization is also important; the biological material stored in a biobank must be processed in a manner that allows compatibility with other biobanks that preserve samples in the same field. In this paper, we review some issues related to biobanks purposes, quality, harmonization, and their financial and ethical aspects.
Ampelopsis Radix Protects Dopaminergic Neurons against 1-Methyl-4-phenylpyridinium/1-methyl-4-phenyl-1,2,3,6-tetrahydropyridine-Induced Toxicity in Parkinson’s Disease ModelsIn VitroandIn Vivo
Authors: Park Hanbyeol , Shim Jin Sup , Kim Hyo Geun , Lee Hyejung , Oh Myung Sook
Published: September 2013

Ampelopsis Radix, the root ofAmpelopsis japonica(Thunb.) Makino (Vitaceae), is a herbal medicine which has been widely used in East Asia. The present study was done to explore whether the standardized extract of Ampelopsis Radix (AJW) protects dopaminergic neurons via antioxidant mechanisms in Parkinson’s disease (PD) models. The effects of AJW on primary mesencephalic cultures stressed with 1-methyl-4-phenylpyridinium were investigated using tyrosine hydroxylase (TH) immunohistochemistry and reactive oxygen species measurement. The eliminative effects of AJW on the 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl and 2,2′-azino-bis-(3-ethylbenzthiazoline-6-sulphonic acid) radicals were explored using colorimetric methods. The effects of AJW on the mice treated with 1-methyl-4-phenyl-1,2,3,6-tetrahydropyridine (MPTP) were determined by pole test as well as TH and 8-hydroxydeoxyguanosine immunohistochemistry. AJW protected dopaminergic neurons by inhibiting reactive oxygen species generationin vitro. Moreover, AJW showed potent radical scavenging activitiesin vitro. In the mouse PD model, AJW protected the dopaminergic neurons in the brain, leading to motor improvements. AJW inhibited the MPTP-evoked accumulation of 8-hydroxydeoxyguanosine in the brain. These data suggest that AJW has neuroprotective effects with antioxidant mechanisms in PD models.
Cognitive Intraindividual Variability and White Matter Integrity in Aging
Authors: Mella Nathalie , de Ribaupierre Sandrine , Eagleson Roy , de Ribaupierre Anik
Published: September 2013

The intraindividual variability (IIV) of cognitive performance has been shown to increase with aging. While brain research has generally focused on mean performance, little is known about neural correlates of cognitive IIV. Nevertheless, some studies suggest that IIV relates more strongly than mean level of performance to the quality of white matter (WM). Our study aims to explore the relation between WM integrity and cognitive IIV by combining functional (fMRI) and structural (diffusion tensor imaging, DTI) imaging. Twelve young adults (aged 18–30 years) and thirteen older adults (61–82 years) underwent a battery of neuropsychological tasks, along with fMRI and DTI imaging. Their behavioral data were analyzed and correlated with the imaging data at WM regions of interest defined on the basis of (1) the fMRI‐activated areas and (2) the Johns Hopkins University (JHU) WM tractography atlas. For both methods, fractional anisotropy, along with the mean, radial, and axial diffusivity parameters, was computed. In accord with previous studies, our results showed that the DTI parameters were more related to IIV than to mean performance. Results also indicated that age differences in the DTI parameters were more pronounced in the regions activated primarily by young adults during a choice reaction‐time task than in those also activated in older adults.
Overview on the Pointwise Constrained Liapunov Vectorial Convexity Theorem
Authors: Carlota Clara , Chá Sílvia , Ornelas António
Published: September 2013

In applications of the Calculus of Variations, Optimal Control and Differential Inclusions, very important real-life problems are nonconvex vectorial and subject to pointwise constraints. The classical Liapunov convexity theorem is a crucial tool allowing researchers to solve nonconvex vectorial problems involving single integrals.
However, the possibility of extending such theorem so as to deal with pointwise constraints has remained an open problem for two decades, in the more realistic case using variable vectorial velocities. We have recently solved it, in the sense of proving necessary conditions and sufficient conditions for solvability of such problem. A quick overview of our results is presented here, the main point being that, somehow, convex constrained nonuniqueness a.e. implies nonconvex constrained existence.
Analytical Solutions of Boundary Values Problem of 2D and 3D Poisson and Biharmonic Equations by Homotopy Decomposition Method
Authors: Atangana Abdon , Kılıçman Adem
Published: September 2013

The homotopy decomposition method, a relatively new analytical method, is used to solve the 2D and 3D Poisson equations and biharmonic equations. The method is chosen because it does not require the linearization or assumptions of weak nonlinearity, the solutions are generated in the form of general solution, and it is more realistic compared to the method of simplifying the physical problems. The method does not require any corrected function or any Lagrange multiplier and it avoids repeated terms in the series solutions compared to the existing decomposition method including the variational iteration method, the Adomian decomposition method, and Homotopy perturbation method. The approximated solutions obtained converge to the exact solution as tends to infinity.
A Study on the Influence of the Forming Strategy on the Main Strains, Thickness Reduction, and Forces in a Single Point Incremental Forming Process
Authors: Blaga Adrian , Oleksik Valentin
Published: September 2013

This paper comprises an experimental study for a complex geometry part obtained by incremental forming. Due to the process complexity (the presence of forces on three directions—a vertical one and two in the blank's plane), a three axes CNC milling machine, capable of describing the complex paths covered by the punch for obtaining the truncated cone-shaped parts, has been chosen. To obtain a truncated cone, three different trajectories were selected: in first and second variants after each vertical press having a constant step, the punch covers a circular path. The differences show that the following circular trajectory can start at the same point or can be shifted at an angle of 90° from the previous press point. In the last variant, the punch performs a spatial spiral trajectory. The main objective of our study was to determine the optimal forming strategy, by shifting the press position of the punch and the path it follows to obtain a truncated cone through single point incremental forming. Thus, the strain distribution can be homogeneous, and the thickness reduction and the process forces are minimal.
Oxide p‐n Heterojunction of Cu2O/ZnO Nanowires and Their Photovoltaic Performance
Authors: Baek Seung Ki , Lee Ki Ryong , Cho Hyung Koun
Published: September 2013

Oxide p‐n heterojunction devices consisting of p‐Cu2O/n‐ZnO nanowires were fabricated on ITO/glass substrates and their photovoltaic performances were investigated. The vertically arrayed ZnO nanowires were grown by metal organic chemical vapor deposition, which was followed by the electrodeposition of the p‐type Cu2O layer. Prior to the fabrication of solar cells, the effect of bath pH on properties of the absorber layers was studied to determine the optimal condition of the Cu2O electrodeposition process. With the constant pH 11 solution, the Cu2O layer preferred the (111) orientation, which gave low electrical resistivity and high optical absorption. The Cu2O (pH 11)/ZnO nanowire‐based solar cell exhibited a higher conversion efficiency of 0.27% than the planar structure solar cell (0.13%), because of the effective charge collection in the long wavelength region and because of the enhanced junction area.
Elevated Expression of Fractalkine (CX3CL1) and Fractalkine Receptor (CX3CR1) in the Dorsal Root Ganglia and Spinal Cord in Experimental Autoimmune Encephalomyelitis: Implications in Multiple Sclerosis-Induced Neuropathic Pain
Authors: Zhu Wenjun , Acosta Crystal , MacNeil Brian , Cortes Claudia , Intrater Howard , Gong Yuewen , Namaka Mike
Published: September 2013

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a central nervous system (CNS) disease resulting from a targeted autoimmune-mediated attack on myelin proteins in the CNS. The release of Th1 inflammatory mediators in the CNS activates macrophages, antibodies, and microglia resulting in myelin damage and the induction of neuropathic pain (NPP). Molecular signaling through fractalkine (CX3CL1), a nociceptive chemokine, via its receptor (CX3CR1) is thought to be associated with MS-induced NPP. An experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE) model of MS was utilized to assess time dependent gene and protein expression changes of CX3CL1 and CX3CR1. Results revealed significant increases in mRNA and the protein expression of CX3CL1 and CX3CR1 in the dorsal root ganglia (DRG) and spinal cord (SC) 12 days after EAE induction compared to controls. This increased expression correlated with behavioural thermal sensory abnormalities consistent with NPP. Furthermore, this increased expression correlated with the peak neurological disability caused by EAE induction. This is the first study to identify CX3CL1 signaling through CX3CR1 via the DRG /SC anatomical connection that represents a critical pathway involved in NPP induction in an EAE model of MS.
Galectins as New Prognostic Markers and Potential Therapeutic Targets for Advanced Prostate Cancers
Authors: Laderach Diego J. , Gentilini Lucas , Jaworski Felipe M. , Compagno Daniel
Published: September 2013

A better understanding of multimolecular interactions involved in tumor dissemination is required to identify new effective therapies for advanced prostate cancer (PCa). Several groups investigated protein-glycan interactions as critical factors for crosstalk between prostate tumors and their microenvironment. This review both discusses whether the “galectin-signature” might serve as a reliable biomarker for the identification of patients with high risk of metastasis and assesses the galectin-glycan lattices as potential novel targets for anticancer therapies. The ultimate goal of this review is to convey how basic findings related to galectins could be in turn translated into clinical settings for patients with advanced PCa.
The Role of Calprotectin in Pediatric Disease
Authors: Vaos George , Kostakis Ioannis D. , Zavras Nick , Chatzemichael Athanasios
Published: September 2013

Calprotectin (CP) is a calcium- and zinc-binding protein of the S100 family expressed mainly by neutrophils with important extracellular activity. The aim of the current review is to summarize the latest findings concerning the role of CP in a diverse range of inflammatory and noninflammatory conditions among children. Increasing evidence suggests the implication of CP in the diagnosis, followup, assessment of relapses, and response to treatment in pediatric pathological conditions, such as inflammatory bowel disease, necrotizing enterocolitis, celiac disease, intestinal cystic fibrosis, acute appendicitis, juvenile idiopathic arthritis, Kawasaki disease, polymyositis-dermatomyositis, glomerulonephritis, IgA nephropathy, malaria, HIV infection, hyperzincemia and hypercalprotectinemia, and cancer. Further studies are required to provide insights into the actual role of CP in these pathological processes in pediatrics.
Destruxin B Isolated from Entomopathogenic FungusMetarhizium anisopliaeInduces Apoptosis via a Bcl-2 Family-Dependent Mitochondrial Pathway in Human Nonsmall Cell Lung Cancer Cells
Authors: Wu Chun-Chi , Chen Tzu-Hsiu , Liu Bing-Lan , Wu Li-Chen , Chen Yung-Ching , Tzeng Yew-Min , Hsu Shih-Lan
Published: September 2013

Destruxin B, isolated from entomopathogenic fungusMetarhizium anisopliae, is one of the cyclodepsipeptides with insecticidal and anticancer activities. In this study, destruxin B was extracted and purified by ion-exchange chromatography, silica gel chromatography, and semipreparative high-performance liquid chromatography. The potential anticancer effects and molecular mechanisms of destruxin B in human nonsmall cell lung cancer cell lines were characterized. Our results showed that destruxin B induced apoptotic cell death in A549 cells. This event was accompanied by the activation of caspase-2, -3, and -9. Moreover, destruxin B increased the expression level of proapoptotic molecule, PUMA, while decreased antiapoptotic molecule Mcl-1. Additionally, the translocation of Bax from cytosol to mitochondrial membrane was observed upon destruxin B treatment. Knockdown of Bax by shRNA effectively attenuated destruxin-B-triggered apoptosis in A549 cells. Interestingly, similar toxic effects and underlying mechanisms including caspase activation, upregulation of PUMA, and downregulation of Mcl-1 were also observed in a p53-null lung cancer H1299 cell line upon destruxin B treatment. Taken together, our findings suggest that destruxin-B-induced apoptosis in human nonsmall cell lung cancer cells is via a Bcl-2 family-dependent mitochondrial pathway.
Mindfulness and Self-Compassion in Generalized Anxiety Disorder: Examining Predictors of Disability
Authors: Hoge Elizabeth A. , Hölzel Britta K. , Marques Luana , Metcalf Christina A. , Brach Narayan , Lazar Sara W. , Simon Naomi M.
Published: September 2013

Generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) is a condition characterized by worry and physiological arousal symptoms that causes significant disabilities in patients’ lives. In order to improve psychotherapeutic interventions, a careful characterization of the deficiencies of this population as well as factors that ameliorate disability is crucial. Variables that have not traditionally been the focus of research should be considered, such as trait mindfulness and self-compassion. We investigated whether GAD patients would report lower mindfulness and self-compassion levels than healthy stressed individuals. Eighty-seven GAD patients and 49 healthy controls completed the Five Facet Mindfulness Questionnaire, the Self-Compassion Scale, and measures of anxiety. Patients with GAD also completed the Sheehan Disability Scale. Results showed that GAD patients had lower mindfulness and self-compassion than healthy stressed controls, and both were negatively correlated with levels of anxiety, worry, and anxiety sensitivity. In patients, mindfulness was a better predictor of disability than actual anxiety symptom scores. These findings highlight that in the presence of anxiety symptoms, mindfulness can be a factor that helps protect against feeling disabled by the disorder. The findings thereby add an important variable to the characterization of this disorder and should be taken into consideration for future treatment development.
Potential Impact of a Free Online HIV Treatment Response Prediction System for Reducing Virological Failures and Drug Costs after Antiretroviral Therapy Failure in a Resource-Limited Setting
Authors: Revell Andrew D. , Alvarez-Uria Gerardo , Wang Dechao , Pozniak Anton , Montaner Julio S. , Lane H. Clifford , Larder Brendan A.
Published: September 2013

Objective. Antiretroviral drug selection in resource-limited settings is often dictated by strict protocols as part of a public health strategy. The objective of this retrospective study was to examine if the HIV-TRePS online treatment prediction tool could help reduce treatment failure and drug costs in such settings.Methods. The HIV-TRePS computational models were used to predict the probability of response to therapy for 206 cases of treatment change following failure in India. The models were used to identify alternative locally available 3-drug regimens, which were predicted to be effective. The costs of these regimens were compared to those actually used in the clinic.Results. The models predicted the responses to treatment of the cases with an accuracy of 0.64. The models identified alternative drug regimens that were predicted to result in improved virological response and lower costs than those used in the clinic in 85% of the cases. The average annual cost saving was $364 USD per year (41%).Conclusions. Computational models that do not require a genotype can predict and potentially avoid treatment failure and may reduce therapy costs. The use of such a system to guide therapeutic decision-making could confer health economic benefits in resource-limited settings.
Measure Functional Differential Equations in the Space of Functions of Bounded Variation
Authors: Afonso S. M. , Rontó A.
Published: September 2013

We establish general conditions for the unique solvability of nonlinear measure functional differential equations in terms of properties of suitable linear majorants.
Arsenate Retention by Epipsammic Biofilms Developed on Streambed Sediments: Influence of Phosphate
Authors: Prieto D. M. , Devesa-Rey R. , Rubinos D. A. , Díaz-Fierros F. , Barral M. T.
Published: September 2013

Natural geological conditions together with the impact of human activities could produce environmental problems due to high As concentrations. The aim of this study was to assess the role of epipsammic biofilm-sediment systems onto As (V) sorption and to evaluate the effect of the presence of equimolar P concentrations on As retention. A natural biofilm was grown on sediment samples in the laboratory, using river water as nutrient supplier. Sorption experiments with initial As concentrations 0, 5, 25, 50, 100, 250, and 500 μg L−1were performed. The average percentage of As sorbed was78.9±3.5and96.9±6.6% for the sediment and biofilm-sediment systems, respectively. Phosphate decreased by 25% the As sorption capactity in the sediment devoid of biofilm, whereas no significant effect was observed in the systems with biofilm. Freundlich, Sips, and Toth models were the best to describe experimental data. The maximum As sorption capacity of the sediment and biofilm-sediment systems was, respectively, 6.6 and 6.8 μg g−1and 4.5 and 7.8 μg g−1in the presence of P. In conclusion, epipsammic biofilms play an important role in the environmental quality of river systems, increasing As retention by the system, especially in environments where both As and P occur simultaneously.
Everolimus for Compassionate Use in Multiple Basal Cell Carcinomas
Authors: Eibenschutz Laura , Colombo Delia , Catricalà Caterina
Published: September 2013

Everolimus is an inhibitor of the mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) and has been shown to have antineoplastic activity in addition to its use as an immunosuppressive agent for the prevention of organ transplant rejection. We report the use of everolimus for the compassionate treatment of four elderly, nontransplant patients presenting with multiple basal cell carcinomas (BCC). All patients had a long history of BCC, had refused surgery as a current treatment option, and did not respond to alternative treatments (including topical 5-fluorouracil and imiquimod). Patients were treated with oral everolimus (1.5–3.0 mg daily) for 12 months or longer: a complete and sustained response was seen in one case, and partial responses were seen in two other cases. Everolimus was well tolerated in these elderly patients. These promising preliminary data suggest that further dose-finding, controlled clinical studies are warranted to evaluate the antineoplastic effects of everolimus in patients affected by BCC who cannot or will not undergo surgery.
Alpha 1-Antichymotrypsin, an Inflammatory Protein Overexpressed in the Brains of Patients with Alzheimer’s Disease, Induces Tau Hyperphosphorylation through c-Jun N-Terminal Kinase Activation
Authors: Tyagi Ethika , Fiorelli Tina , Norden Michelle , Padmanabhan Jaya
Published: September 2013

The association of inflammatory proteins with neuritic plaques in the brains of Alzheimer’s disease (AD) patients has led to the hypothesis that inflammation plays a pivotal role in the development of pathology in AD. Earlier studies have shown that alpha 1-antichymotrypsin (ACT) enhances amyloid beta fibrillization and accelerated plaque formation in APP transgenic mice. Later studies from our laboratory have shown that purified ACT induces tau hyperphosphorylation and degeneration in neurons. In order to understand the mechanisms by which inflammatory proteins enhance tau hyperphosphorylation, we injected interleukin-1β(IL-1β) intracerebroventricularly into mice expressing human ACT, human tau, or both transgenes. It was found that the hyperphosphorylation of tau in ACT and ACT/htau mice after IL-1βinjection correlated with increased phosphorylation of c-Jun N-terminal kinase (JNK). We verified the involvement of JNK in ACT-induced tau phosphorylation by utilizing JNK inhibitors in cultured primary neurons treated with ACT, and we found that the inhibitor showed complete prevention of ACT-induced tau phosphorylation. These results indicate that JNK is one of the major kinases involved in the ACT-mediated tau hyperphosphorylation and suggest that inhibitors of this kinase may protect against inflammation-induced tau hyperphosphorylation and neurodegeneration associated with AD.
Diagnosis of Thymic Clear Cell Carcinoma by Cytology
Authors: Lale Seema A. , Tiscornia-Wasserman Patricia G. , Aziz Mohamed
Published: September 2013

Clear cell carcinoma of the thymus is a rare tumor. Few cases of clear-cell carcinoma of thymus have been documented (Truong et al., 1990 and Wolfe III et al., 1983). All these cases were diagnosed by histopathological examination of the tissue. Diagnosis of thymic clear cell carcinoma on cytology is extremely challenging. Here we report the first case of thymic clear cell carcinoma diagnosed by cytological examination of the pericardial fluid with the help of immunocytochemistry. Differential diagnosis included adenocarcinoma, mesothelioma, and thymic clear cell carcinoma. Thymic carcinoma with clear cell features has an aggressive clinical behavior including our case, where it was already metastasized at the time of presentation.
Microbiological Profile of Adenoid Hypertrophy Correlates to Clinical Diagnosis in Children
Authors: Szalmás Anita , Papp Zoltán , Csomor Péter , Kónya József , Sziklai István , Szekanecz Zoltán , Karosi Tamás
Published: September 2013

Objective. Adenoid hypertrophy is a common condition in childhood, which may be associated with recurring acute otitis media (RAOM), otitis media with effusion (OME), and obstructive sleep apnea syndrome (OSAS). These different clinical characteristics have some clinical overlap; however, they might be explained by distinct immunologic and infectious profiles and result in various histopathologic findings of adenoid specimens.Methods. A total of 59 children with adenoid hypertrophy undergoing adenoidectomy were studied. Three series of identical adenoid specimens were processed to hematoxylin-eosin (H.E.) and Gram staining and to respiratory virus specific real-time PCR, respectively.Results. According to the clinical characteristics, patients were recruited into three groups: RAOM (). Bacterial biofilms were detected in 21 cases, while at least one of the studied respiratory viruses was detected in 52 specimens. RAOM cases were significantly associated with biofilm existence (). In contrast, OME group was characterized by the absence of bacterial biofilm and by normal mucosa. Showing a statistically significant correlation, all OME cases were positive for human bocavirus (HBoV, ).Conclusions. Bacterial biofilms might contribute to the damage of respiratory epithelium and recurring acute infections resulting in RAOM. In OME cases persisting respiratory viruses, mainly HBoV, can cause subsequent lymphoid hyperplasia leading to ventilation disorders and impaired immunoreactivity of the middle ear cleft.
Prevalence of Anemia and Associated Factors in Child Bearing Age Women in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
Authors: AlQuaiz AlJohara M. , Gad Mohamed Ashry , Khoja Tawfik A. M. , AlSharif Abdullah , Shaikh Shaffi Ahamed , Al Mane Hamad , Aldiris Abdallah , Kazi Ambreen , Hammad Durdana
Published: September 2013

Objective. To determine the prevalence and risk factors for anemia in child bearing age women in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.Design. Cross-sectional survey was conducted using two-stage cluster sampling. 25 clusters (primary health care centers (PHCC)) were identified from all over Riyadh, and 45–50 households were randomly selected from each cluster. Eligible women were invited to PHCC for questionnaire filling, anthropometric measurements, and complete blood count. Blood hemoglobin was measured with Coulter Cellular Analysis System using light scatter method.Setting. PHCC.Subjects. 969 (68%) women out of 1429 women were included in the analysis.Results. Mean hemoglobin was 12.35 (±1.80) g/dL, 95% CI 12.24–12.46 with interquartile range of 1.9. Anemia (Hb <12 g/dL) was present in 40% (390) women. Mean (±SD) for MCH, MCV, MCHC, and RDW was 79.21 (±12.17) fL, 26.37 (±6.21) pg, 32.36 (±4.91) g/dL, and 14.84 (±4.65)%, respectively. Multivariate logistic regression revealed that having family history of iron deficiency anemia (OR 2.91, 95% CI 1.78–4.76) and infrequent intake of meat (OR 1.54, 95%CI 1.15–2.05) were associated with increased risk of anemia, whereas increasing body mass index (OR 0.95, 95% CI 0.92–0.97) was associated with reduced risk of anemia.Conclusion. Women should be educated about proper diet and reproductive issues in order to reduce the prevalence of anemia in Saudi Arabia.
Correlation between Body Mass Index and Thyroid Function in Euthyroid Individuals in Greece
Authors: Milionis Anastasios , Milionis Charalampos
Published: September 2013

Although the effects of hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism on body weight have been clearly demonstrated, there is no sufficient data on the relationship between the body mass index (BMI) and minor differences within the normal range of thyroid function. The present study aims to investigate the relationship of fluctuations of the thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH) and thyroid hormones with BMI in euthyroid subjects. The study included 736 euthyroid healthy individuals of known age, weight, height, and biochemical picture of the thyroid function. Individuals were classified according to BMI and thyroid hormones’ values. The variations of normal thyroid function in euthyroid individuals were associated with body weight changes. A statistically significant positive correlation between BMI and thyroid function in women was found, while in men the correlation was not statistically significant. The alterations in thyroid function are mainly primary, while changes in body weight are secondary. The reason may be simple or multifactorial, and the biological mechanism is not completely known. Finally, the thyroid function disorders in conjunction with the strong influence of various environmental factors can increase body weight and lead to obesity.
Convergence Analysis of Alternating Direction Method of Multipliers for a Class of Separable Convex Programming
Authors: Jia Zehui , Guo Ke , Cai Xingju
Published: September 2013

The purpose of this paper is extending the convergence analysis of Han and Yuan (2012) for alternating direction method of multipliers (ADMM) from the strongly convex to a more general case. Under the assumption that the individual functions are composites of strongly convex functions and linear functions, we prove that the classical ADMM for separable convex programming with two blocks can be extended to the case with more than three blocks. The problems, although still very special, arise naturally from some important applications, for example, route-based traffic assignment problems.