bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Interplay of fan-fringe reservoir deterioration and hydrodynamic aquifer: understanding the margins of gas development in the Ormen Lange Field
Authors: Grecula M. , Hognestad J. , Price S. , Ferrero M. Boya , De Bruijn G. , Noraberg K. T. , Engenes K. , Mears P. , Van Ojik K. , McGarva R.
Published: February 2014

The Ormen Lange Field is a gas reservoir offshore mid-Norway, developed in a combined structural–stratigraphic–hydrodynamic trap. The lobe-dominated turbidite deposits are mostly of excellent quality, but show a significant deterioration trend towards the fan fringe at its northern margin. Axial parts of the fan contain amalgamated sand-rich deposits, which pass laterally into layered sequences characterized by intercalation of low-permeability heterolithic drapes. Along its 40 km length, the field contains in excess of 400 linked polygonal faults attributed to de-watering of underlying shales. Despite pervasive faulting, reservoir connectivity on a geological timescale is proved by a common pressure gradient in pre-production wells and depletion seen in all later development wells. Recent appraisal drilling of the fan fringe, occupying the crest of the field, encountered only residual gas saturations, despite being located in an area delineated by a seismic direct hydrocarbon indicator. A hydrodynamic aquifer concept is the most plausible explanation for the fluid distribution, in which the gas from the crest of the structure is displaced, leaving behind a northward-thickening prism of residual gas. Dynamic simulation of the fluid-fill evolution over geological time showed the hydrodynamically tilted contact depends on rate of water flow across the aquifer, stratigraphic baffling and faulting, and reservoir quality, i.e. clean sand fraction and effective permeability. Optimal development of this deep-water reservoir depends on understanding the relationship between reservoir quality, connectivity, and the position of the free water level (FWL) in the field. A range of FWL in the north of the field, only weakly constrained by the wells, was empirically established from the hydrodynamically initialized models. This allowed a robust test of the production wells planned to drain the margin of the field. Modelled predictions of reservoir quality and pressures were confirmed by subsequent drilling.
Atmospheric Emissions and Air Quality Impacts from Natural Gas Production and Use
Authors: Allen David T.
Published: February 2014

The US Energy Information Administration projects that hydraulic fracturing of shale formations will become a dominant source of domestic natural gas supply over the next several decades, transforming the energy landscape in the United States. However, the environmental impacts associated with fracking for shale gas have made it controversial. This review examines emissions and impacts of air pollutants associated with shale gas production and use. Emissions and impacts of greenhouse gases, photochemically active air pollutants, and toxic air pollutants are described. In addition to the direct atmospheric impacts of expanded natural gas production, indirect effects are also described. Widespread availability of shale gas can drive down natural gas prices, which, in turn, can impact the use patterns for natural gas. Natural gas production and use in electricity generation are used as a case study for examining these indirect consequences of expanded natural gas availability.
Experimental and Quasi-Experimental Analysis of Peer Effects: Two Steps Forward?
Authors: Sacerdote Bruce
Published: February 2014

In the past 10 years, there has been an explosion of well-identified studies that measure peer effects across many settings and for many outcomes. The emphasis on natural experiments and randomization is a highly useful one; in more standard observational studies, the self-selection of people into peer groups can make the measurement of peer effects extremely difficult. In the absence of exogenous variation, knowing that people have similar outcomes as their friends, classmates, and coworkers may tell us little about peer effects. I examine the successes, failures, and findings of experimental analyses of peer effects. I draw three broad conclusions. First, even more than in other areas of social science, the size and nature of peer effects estimated are highly context specific; peer effects in student test scores and grades are prominent in some cases and absent in others. That said, there is a pattern across studies suggesting that social outcomes (e.g., crime, drinking behavior) and career choices show larger peer influences than do test scores. Second, researchers have shown that the linear-in-means model of peer effects is often not a good description of the world, although we do not yet have an agreed-upon model to replace it. Third, despite potential temptation, we have not reached the point at which we can reliably use knowledge of peer effects to implement policies that improve outcomes for students and other human subjects.
Biology of CD1- and MR1-Restricted T Cells
Authors: Salio Mariolina , Silk Jonathan D. , Yvonne Jones E. , Cerundolo Vincenzo
Published: February 2014

Over the past 15 years, investigators have shown that T lymphocytes can recognize not only peptides in the context of MHC class I and class II molecules but also foreign and self-lipids in association with the nonclassical MHC class I–like molecules, CD1 proteins. In this review, we describe the most recent events in the field, with particular emphasis on (a) structural and functional aspects of lipid presentation by CD1 molecules, (b) the development of CD1d-restricted invariant natural killer T (iNKT) cells and transcription factors required for their differentiation, (c) the ability of iNKT cells to modulate innate and adaptive immune responses through their cross talk with lymphoid and myeloid cells, and (d) MR1-restricted and group I (CD1a, CD1b, and CD1c)–restricted T cells.
Reduced GM1 ganglioside in CFTR-deficient human airway cells results in decreased β1-integrin signaling and delayed wound repair
Authors: Itokazu Yutaka , Pagano Richard E. , Schroeder Andreas S. , O'Grady Scott M. , Limper Andrew H. , Marks David L.
Published: February 2014

Loss of cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR) function reduces chloride secretion and increases sodium uptake, but it is not clear why CFTR mutation also results in progressive lung inflammation and infection. We previously demonstrated that CFTR-silenced airway cells migrate more slowly during wound repair than CFTR-expressing controls. In addition, CFTR-deficient cells and mouse models have been reported to have altered sphingolipid levels. Here, we investigated the hypothesis that reduced migration in CFTR-deficient airway epithelial cells results from altered sphingolipid composition. We used cell lines derived from a human airway epithelial cell line (Calu-3) stably transfected with CFTR short hairpin RNA (CFTR-silenced) or nontargeting short hairpin RNA (controls). Cell migration was measured by electric cell substrate impedance sensing (ECIS). Lipid analyses, addition of exogenous glycosphingolipids, and immunoblotting were performed. We found that levels of the glycosphingolipid, GM1 ganglioside, were ∼60% lower in CFTR-silenced cells than in controls. CFTR-silenced cells exhibited reduced levels of activated β1-integrin, phosphorylated tyrosine 576 of focal adhesion kinase (pFAK), and phosphorylation of Crk-associated substrate (pCAS). Addition of GM1 (but not GM3) ganglioside to CFTR-silenced cells restored activated β1-integrin, pFAK, and pCAS to near control levels and partially restored (∼40%) cell migration. Our results suggest that decreased GM1 in CFTR-silenced cells depresses β1-integrin signaling, which contributes to the delayed wound repair observed in these cells. These findings have implications for the pathology of cystic fibrosis, where altered sphingolipid levels in airway epithelial cells could result in a diminished capacity for wound repair after injury.
Syndapin 3 modulates fusion pore expansion in mouse neuroendocrine chromaffin cells
Authors: Samasilp Prattana , Lopin Kyle , Chan Shyue-An , Ramachandran Rajesh , Smith Corey
Published: February 2014

Adrenal neuroendocrine chromaffin cells receive excitatory synaptic input from the sympathetic nervous system and secrete hormones into the peripheral circulation. Under basal sympathetic tone, modest amounts of freely soluble catecholamine are selectively released through a restricted fusion pore formed between the secretory granule and the plasma membrane. Upon activation of the sympathoadrenal stress reflex, elevated stimulation drives fusion pore expansion, resulting in increased catecholamine secretion and facilitating release of copackaged peptide hormones. Thus regulated expansion of the secretory fusion pore is a control point for differential hormone release of the sympathoadrenal stress response. Previous work has shown that syndapin 1 deletion alters transmitter release and that the dynamin 1-syndapin 1 interaction is necessary for coupled endocytosis in neurons. Dynamin has also been shown to be involved in regulation of fusion pore expansion in neuroendocrine chromaffin cells through an activity-dependent association with syndapin. However, it is not known which syndapin isoform(s) contributes to pore dynamics in neuroendocrine cells. Nor is it known at what stage of the secretion process dynamin and syndapin associate to modulate pore expansion. Here we investigate the expression and localization of syndapin isoforms and determine which are involved in mediating fusion pore expansion. We show that all syndapin isoforms are expressed in the adrenal medulla. Mutation of the SH3 dynamin-binding domain of all syndapin isoforms shows that fusion pore expansion and catecholamine release are limited specifically by mutation of syndapin 3. The mutation also disrupts targeting of syndapin 3 to the cell periphery. Syndapin 3 exists in a persistent colocalized state with dynamin 1.
Meth math: modeling temperature responses to methamphetamine
Authors: Molkov Yaroslav I. , Zaretskaia Maria V. , Zaretsky Dmitry V.
Published: February 2014

Methamphetamine (Meth) can evoke extreme hyperthermia, which correlates with neurotoxicity and death in laboratory animals and humans. The objective of this study was to uncover the mechanisms of a complex dose dependence of temperature responses to Meth by mathematical modeling of the neuronal circuitry. On the basis of previous studies, we composed an artificial neural network with the core comprising three sequentially connected nodes: excitatory, medullary, and sympathetic preganglionic neuronal (SPN). Meth directly stimulated the excitatory node, an inhibitory drive targeted the medullary node, and, in high doses, an additional excitatory drive affected the SPN node. All model parameters (weights of connections, sensitivities, and time constants) were subject to fitting experimental time series of temperature responses to 1, 3, 5, and 10 mg/kg Meth. Modeling suggested that the temperature response to the lowest dose of Meth, which caused an immediate and short hyperthermia, involves neuronal excitation at a supramedullary level. The delay in response after the intermediate doses of Meth is a result of neuronal inhibition at the medullary level. Finally, the rapid and robust increase in body temperature induced by the highest dose of Meth involves activation of high-dose excitatory drive. The impairment in the inhibitory mechanism can provoke a life-threatening temperature rise and makes it a plausible cause of fatal hyperthermia in Meth users. We expect that studying putative neuronal sites of Meth action and the neuromediators involved in a detailed model of this system may lead to more effective strategies for prevention and treatment of hyperthermia induced by amphetamine-like stimulants.
Placental restriction of fetal growth reduces cutaneous responses to antigen after sensitization in sheep
Authors: Wooldridge Amy L. , Bischof Robert J. , Meeusen Els N. , Liu Hong , Heinemann Gary K. , Hunter Damien S. , Giles Lynne C. , Kind Karen L. , Owens Julie A. , Clifton Vicki L. , Gatford Kathryn L.
Published: February 2014

Prenatal and early childhood exposures are implicated as causes of allergy, but the effects of intrauterine growth restriction on immune function and allergy are poorly defined. We therefore evaluated effects of experimental restriction of fetal growth on immune function and allergic sensitization in adolescent sheep. Immune function (circulating total red and white blood cells, neutrophils, lymphocytes, monocytes, eosinophils, and basophils, and the antibody response to Clostridial vaccination) and responses to house dust mite (HDM) allergen and ovalbumin (OVA) antigen sensitization (specific total Ig, IgG1, and IgE antibodies, and cutaneous hypersensitivity) were investigated in adolescent sheep from placentally restricted (PR, n = 23) and control ( n = 40) pregnancies. Increases in circulating HDM-specific IgE ( P = 0.007) and OVA-specific IgE ( P = 0.038) were greater in PR than control progeny. PR did not alter total Ig, IgG1, or IgM responses to either antigen. PR increased OVA-specific but not HDM-specific IgA responses in females only ( P = 0.023). Multiple birth increased Ig responses to OVA in a sex-specific manner. PR decreased the proportion of positive cutaneous hypersensitivity responders to OVA at 24 h ( P = 0.030) but had no effect on cutaneous responses to HDM. Acute wheal responses to intradermal histamine correlated positively with birth weight in singletons ( P = 0.023). Intrauterine growth restriction may suppress inflammatory responses in skin downstream of IgE induction, without impairment in antibody responses to a nonpolysaccharide vaccine. Discord between cutaneous and IgE responses following sensitization suggests new mechanisms for prenatal allergy programming.
Effects of β-hydroxy-β-methylbutyrate free acid and cold water immersion on expression of CR3 and MIP-1β following resistance exercise
Authors: Gonzalez Adam M. , Fragala Maren S. , Jajtner Adam R. , Townsend Jeremy R. , Wells Adam J. , Beyer Kyle S. , Boone Carleigh H. , Pruna Gabriel J. , Mangine Gerald T. , Bohner Jonathan D. , Fukuda David H. , Stout Jeffrey R. , Hoffman Jay R.
Published: February 2014

The inflammatory response to muscle-damaging exercise requires monocyte mobilization and adhesion. Complement receptor type 3 (CR3) and macrophage inflammatory protein (MIP)-1β enables monocyte recruitment, adhesion, and subsequent infiltration into damaged muscle tissue. The purpose of this study was to examine the effects of cold water immersion (CWI) and/or β-hydroxy-β-methylbutyrate free acid (HMB-FA) on CR3 expression and MIP-1β concentration after four sets of up to 10 repetitions of squat, dead lift, and split squat exercises at 70–80% 1-repetition maximum. Thirty-nine resistance-trained men (22.2 ± 2.5 yr) were randomly divided into four groups: 1) placebo (PL), 2) HMB-FA, 3) HMB-FA-CWI, and 4) PL-CWI. The HMB-FA groups ingested 3 g/day, and CWI groups were submersed into 10–12°C water for 10 min after exercise. Blood was sampled at baseline (PRE), immediately post- (IP), 30 min post- (30P), 24 h post- (24P), and 48 h post (48P)-exercise. Circulating MIP-1β was assayed and CR3 expression on CD14+ monocytes was measured by flow cytometry. Without treatment, CR3 expression significantly elevated at 30P compared with other time points ( P = 0.030–0.047). HMB-FA significantly elevated the percentage of monocytes expressing CR3 between IP and 24P ( P = 0.046) and between IP and 48P ( P = 0.046). No time effect was observed for MIP-1β concentration. The recovery modalities showed to attenuate the rise in CR3 following exercise. Additionally, supplementation with HMB-FA significantly elevated the percentage of monocytes expressing CR3 during recovery. Although the time course that inflammatory responses are most beneficial remains to be determined, recovery modalities may alter immune cell mobilization and adhesion mechanisms during tissue recovery.
Dicer function is required in the metanephric mesenchyme for early kidney development
Authors: Chu Jessica Y. S. , Sims-Lucas Sunder , Bushnell Daniel S. , Bodnar Andrew J. , Kreidberg Jordan A. , Ho Jacqueline
Published: February 2014

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are small, noncoding regulatory RNAs that act as posttranscriptional repressors by binding to the 3′-untranslated region (3′-UTR) of target genes. They require processing by Dicer, an RNase III enzyme, to become mature regulatory RNAs. Previous work from our laboratory revealed critical roles for miRNAs in nephron progenitors at midgestation (Ho J, Pandey P, Schatton T, Sims-Lucas S, Khalid M, Frank MH, Hartwig S, Kreidberg JA. J Am Soc Nephrol 22: 1053–1063, 2011). To interrogate roles for miRNAs in the early metanephric mesenchyme, which gives rise to nephron progenitors as well as the renal stroma during kidney development, we conditionally ablated Dicer function in this lineage. Despite normal ureteric bud outgrowth and condensation of the metanephric mesenchyme to form nephron progenitors, early loss of miRNAs in the metanephric mesenchyme resulted in severe renal dysgenesis. Nephron progenitors are initially correctly specified in the mutant kidneys, with normal expression of several transcription factors known to be critical in progenitors, including Six2, Pax2, Sall1, and Wt1. However, there is premature loss of the nephron progenitor marker Cited1, marked apoptosis, and increased expression of the proapoptotic protein Bim shortly after the initial inductive events in early kidney development. Subsequently, there is a failure in ureteric bud branching and nephron progenitor differentiation. Taken together, our data demonstrate a previously undetermined requirement for miRNAs during early kidney organogenesis and indicate a crucial role for miRNAs in regulating the survival of this lineage.
Inactivation of renal mitochondrial respiratory complexes and manganese superoxide dismutase during sepsis: mitochondria-targeted antioxidant mitigates injury
Authors: Patil Naeem K. , Parajuli Nirmala , MacMillan-Crow Lee Ann , Mayeux Philip R.
Published: February 2014

Acute kidney injury (AKI) is a complication of sepsis and leads to a high mortality rate. Human and animal studies suggest that mitochondrial dysfunction plays an important role in sepsis-induced multi-organ failure; however, the specific mitochondrial targets damaged during sepsis remain elusive. We used a clinically relevant cecal ligation and puncture (CLP) murine model of sepsis and assessed renal mitochondrial function using high-resolution respirometry, renal microcirculation using intravital microscopy, and renal function. CLP caused a time-dependent decrease in mitochondrial complex I and II/III respiration and reduced ATP. By 4 h after CLP, activity of manganese superoxide dismutase (MnSOD) was decreased by 50% and inhibition was sustained through 36 h. These events were associated with increased mitochondrial superoxide generation. We then evaluated whether the mitochondria-targeted antioxidant Mito-TEMPO could reverse renal mitochondrial dysfunction and attenuate sepsis-induced AKI. Mito-TEMPO (10 mg/kg) given at 6 h post-CLP decreased mitochondrial superoxide levels, protected complex I and II/III respiration, and restored MnSOD activity by 18 h. Mito-TEMPO also improved renal microcirculation and glomerular filtration rate. Importantly, even delayed therapy with a single dose of Mito-TEMPO significantly increased 96-h survival rate from 40% in untreated septic mice to 80%. Thus, sepsis causes sustained inactivation of three mitochondrial targets that can lead to increased mitochondrial superoxide. Importantly, even delayed therapy with Mito-TEMPO alleviated kidney injury, suggesting that it may be a promising approach to treat septic AKI.
Corticospinal excitability underlying digit force planning for grasping in humans
Authors: Parikh Pranav , Davare Marco , McGurrin Patrick , Santello Marco
Published: February 2014

Control of digit forces for grasping relies on sensorimotor memory gained from prior experience with the same or similar objects and on online sensory feedback. However, little is known about neural mechanisms underlying digit force planning. We addressed this question by quantifying the temporal evolution of corticospinal excitability (CSE) using single-pulse transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) during two reach-to-grasp tasks. These tasks differed in terms of the magnitude of force exerted on the same points on the object to isolate digit force planning from reach and grasp planning. We also addressed the role of intracortical circuitry within primary motor cortex (M1) by quantifying the balance between short intracortical inhibition and facilitation using paired-pulse TMS on the same tasks. Eighteen right-handed subjects were visually cued to plan digit placement at predetermined locations on the object and subsequently to exert either negligible force (“low-force” task, LF) or 10% of their maximum pinch force (“high-force” task, HF) on the object. We found that the HF task elicited significantly smaller CSE than the LF task, but only when the TMS pulse coincided with the signal to initiate the reach. This force planning-related CSE modulation was specific to the muscles involved in the performance of both tasks. Interestingly, digit force planning did not result in modulation of M1 intracortical inhibitory and facilitatory circuitry. Our findings suggest that planning of digit forces reflected by CSE modulation starts well before object contact and appears to be driven by inputs from frontoparietal areas other than M1.
Cost Effective Community Based Dementia Screening: A Markov Model Simulation
Authors: Saito Erin , Nakamoto Beau K. , Mendez Mario F. , Mehta Bijal , McMurtray Aaron
Published: February 2014

Background. Given the dementia epidemic and the increasing cost of healthcare, there is a need to assess the economic benefit of community based dementia screening programs.Materials and Methods. Markov model simulations were generated using data obtained from a community based dementia screening program over a one-year period. The models simulated yearly costs of caring for patients based on clinical transitions beginning in pre dementia and extending for 10 years.Results. A total of 93 individuals (74 female, 19 male) were screened for dementia and 12 meeting clinical criteria for either mild cognitive impairment(n=7)or dementia(n=5)were identified. Assuming early therapeutic intervention beginning during the year of dementia detection, Markov model simulations demonstrated 9.8% reduction in cost of dementia care over a ten-year simulation period, primarily through increased duration in mild stages and reduced time in more costly moderate and severe stages.Discussion. Community based dementia screening can reduce healthcare costs associated with caring for demented individuals through earlier detection and treatment, resulting in proportionately reduced time in more costly advanced stages.
Conservative Surgical Management of Stage I Bisphosphonate-Related Osteonecrosis of the Jaw
Authors: Vescovi Paolo , Merigo Elisabetta , Meleti Marco , Manfredi Maddalena , Fornaini Carlo , Nammour Samir , Mergoni Giovanni , Sarraj Amin , Bagan Jose V.
Published: February 2014

Purpose. To report the efficacy of conservative surgical treatment for stage I bisphosphonate-related osteonecrosis of the jaw (BRONJ).Materials and Methods. This study reports the clinical outcomes of 63 patients treated for BRONJ stage I (according to Ruggiero's staging system) at the Oral Pathology and Laser-Assisted Surgery Unit of the University of Parma between January 2004 and January 2011. Surgical interventions were performed, under local analgesia, in patients unresponsive for a period of six months to noninvasive treatments such as cycles of local or systemic antibacterial therapy combined or not to low level laser therapy, ozone therapy, or Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy. All interventions were performed after the consultation of oncologist or physician.Results. In our experience, conservative surgical treatment is associated with the highest number of BRONJ healed sites in stage I disease. Complete healing was observed in 92.6% of sites surgically treated.Conclusions. This study confirms that treatment of patients affected by minimal bone exposition, (stage I of BRONJ), through conservative surgical strategies, possibly with laser, may result in a high control of the disease in the long term.
A Filtering Algorithm for Maneuvering Target Tracking Based on Smoothing Spline Fitting
Authors: Liu Yunfeng , Suo Jidong , Karimi Hamid Reza , Liu Xiaoming
Published: February 2014

Maneuvering target tracking is a challenge. Target’s sudden speed or direction changing would make the common filtering tracker divergence. To improve the accuracy of maneuvering target tracking, we propose a tracking algorithm based on spline fitting. Curve fitting, based on historical point trace, reflects the mobility information. The innovation of this paper is assuming that there is no dynamic motion model, and prediction is only based on the curve fitting over the measured data. Monte Carlo simulation results show that, when sea targets are maneuvering, the proposed algorithm has better accuracy than the conventional Kalman filter algorithm and the interactive multiple model filtering algorithm, maintaining simple structure and small amount of storage.
Catalase Influence in the Regulation of Coronary Resistance by Estrogen: Joint Action of Nitric Oxide and Hydrogen Peroxide
Authors: Schenkel Paulo C. , Fernandes Rafael O. , Viegas Vinícius U. , Campos Cristina , Fernandes Tânia R. G. , Araujo Alex Sander da Rosa , Belló-Klein Adriane
Published: February 2014

We tested the influence of estrogen on coronary resistance regulation by modulating nitric oxide (NO) and hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) levels in female rats. For this, estrogen levels were manipulated and the hearts were immediately excised and perfused at a constant flow using a Langendorff’s apparatus. Higher estrogen levels were associated with a lower coronary resistance, increased nitric oxide bioavailability, and higher levels of H2O2. When oxide nitric synthase blockade by L-NAME was performed, no significant changes were found in coronary resistance of ovariectomized rats. Additionally, we found an inverse association between NO levels and catalase activity. Taken together, our data suggest that, in the absence of estrogen influence and, therefore, reduced NO bioavailability, coronary resistance regulation seems to be more dependent on the H2O2that is maintained at low levels by increased catalase activity.
Klippel-Trénaunay Syndrome with Intracranial Arteriovenous Malformation: A Rare Presentation
Authors: Sadiq Mahniya F. , Shuaib Waqas , Tiwana Muhammad H. , Johnson Jamlik-Omari , Khosa Faisal
Published: February 2014

Klippel-Trénaunay syndrome (KTS) is a rare vascular congenital anomaly affecting less than 200,000 people in the United States. Vascular malformations associated with KTS tend to affect slow flow systems: venous, capillary, and lymphatic systems. The nature of the syndrome leads to a higher risk for the development of arteriovenous malformations. Our case presentation describes a patient with KTS and an associated rare presentation of intraventricular arteriovenous malformation (AVM).
Is Metabolic Syndrome Truly a Risk Factor for Male Lower Urinary Tract Symptoms or Just an Epiphenomenon?
Authors: Zamuner Marina , Laranja Walker Wendell , Alonso João Carlos Cardoso , Simões Fabiano A. , Rejowski Ronald F. , Reis Leonardo O.
Published: February 2014

To define whether the association of male lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) and metabolic syndrome (MS) is real or simply an epiphenomenon, 490 male adults (mean age 58 ± 9 years) underwent International Prostate Symptom Score (IPSS), physical and prostate digital examinations, blood analysis, and urinary tract transabdominal ultrasound with prostate volume measurement. Mild, moderate, and severe LUTS were found in 350 (71.4%), 116 (23.7%), and 24 (4.9%) patients, respectively. MS was present in 198 (40.4%) patients, representing 37.4% (131 of 350) of those with mild LUTS, 46.5% (54 of 116) of those with moderate, and 54.1% (13 of 24) of those with severe. The odds ratio of MS having moderate or severe LUTS was 2.1. MS was more common in older age, higher body mass index, and larger prostate size. Moderate and severe LUTS were more frequent in older age, lower levels of high density cholesterol, and higher blood pressure. Older age and body mass index had significant relative risk for lower urinary tract symptoms and only age remained independent factor for LUTS on multivariate analysis. Our results suggest that the association of male LUTS, prostate volume, and MS might be coincidental and related to older age.
Exercise Induced Left Bundle Branch Block Treated with Cardiac Rehabilitation: A Case Report and a Review of the Literature
Authors: Anderson Nathan S. , Ramirez Alexies , Slim Ahmad , Malik Jamil
Published: February 2014

Exercise induced bundle branch block is a rare observation in exercise testing, accounting for 0.5 percent of exercise tests. The best treatment of this condition and its association with coronary disease remain unclear. We describe a case associated with normal coronary arteries which was successfully treated with exercise training. While this treatment has been used previously, our case has a longer followup than previously reported and demonstrates that the treatment is not durable in the absence of continued exercise.
A Novel Role of Globular Adiponectin in Treatment with HFD/STZ Induced T2DM Combined with NAFLD Rats
Authors: Ma Hong , You Guo-Ping , Zhang Xuan-Pu , Yang Xiang-Jiu , Lu Hua-Dong , Huang Yan-Ling , Zhang Wen-Qiang
Published: February 2014

Aims. To evaluate the effects of globular adiponectin (gAd) on treatment of type 2 diabetic rats combined with NAFLD.Materials and Methods. Twenty-one male wistar rats were fed with normal diet (7 rats) or high fat diet (HFD) (14 rats) for 4 weeks, and then HFD-fed rats were injected with streptozotocin (STZ) to induce type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). Half of T2DM rats were randomly injected with gAd intraperitoneally for 7 days. The expressions of adiponectin receptors (adipoR1/R2) in liver and skeletal muscle tissues were detected through western blotting or RT-qPCR, respectively.Results. Globular adiponectin alleviated the hepatic steatosis and increased insulin secretion. In liver, both the protein and mRNA expressions of adipoR2 in T2DM group decreased (P<0.05, resp.) in contrast to NC group and increased (P<0.05andP<0.001, resp.) after gAd treatment. But the protein and mRNA expressions of adipoR1 increased (P<0.05, resp.) in T2DM group and no change was found in the gAd-treated group. In skeletal muscle, the protein and mRNA expressions of adipoR1 and adipoR2 were upregulated in T2DM group and were downregulated after gAd treatment.Conclusions. Globular adiponectin could ameliorate the hepatic steatosis and vary the expressions of adiponectin receptors in liver and skeletal muscle by stimulating insulin secretion.
Risks and Benefits of Thrombolytic, Antiplatelet, and Anticoagulant Therapies for ST Segment Elevation Myocardial Infarction: Systematic Review
Authors: Nascimento Bruno Ramos , de Sousa Marcos Roberto , Demarqui Fábio Nogueira , Ribeiro Antonio Luiz Pinho
Published: February 2014

Objectives. Assess the impact of associating thrombolytics, anticoagulants, antiplatelets, and primary angioplasty (PA) on death, reinfarction (AMI), and major bleeding (MB) in STEMI therapy. Methods. Medline search was performed to identify randomized trials comparing these classes in STEMI treatment, at least 500 patients, providing death, AMI, and MB rates. Similar arms were grouped. Correlation between number of drugs and PA and the outcomes was evaluated, as well as correlation between the year of the study and the outcomes. Results. Fifty-nine papers remained after exclusions. 404.556 patients were divided into 35 groups of arms. There was correlation between the number of drugs and rates of death (r=-0.466, P=0.005) and MB (r=0.403, P=0.016), confirmed by multivariate regression. This model also showed that PA is associated with lower mortality and increased MB. Year and period of publication correlated with the outcomes: death (r=-0.380, P<0.001), MB (r=0.212, P=0.014), and AMI (r=-0.231, P=0.009). Conclusion. The increasing complexity of STEMI treatment has resulted in significant reduction in mortality along with increased rates of MB. Overall, however, the benefits of treatment outweigh the associated risks of MB.
Comparative Analyses of Phase Noise in 28 nm CMOS LC Oscillator Circuit Topologies: Hartley, Colpitts, and Common-Source Cross-Coupled Differential Pair
Authors: Chlis Ilias , Pepe Domenico , Zito Domenico
Published: February 2014

This paper reports comparative analyses of phase noise in Hartley, Colpitts, and common-source cross-coupled differential pair LC oscillator topologies in 28 nm CMOS technology. The impulse sensitivity function is used to carry out both qualitative and quantitative analyses of the phase noise exhibited by each circuit component in each circuit topology with oscillation frequency ranging from 1 to 100 GHz. The comparative analyses show the existence of four distinct frequency regions in which the three oscillator topologies rank unevenly in terms of best phase noise performance, due to the combined effects of device noise and circuit node sensitivity.
An Interstitial Deletion at 10q26.2q26.3
Authors: Iourov Ivan Y. , Vorsanova Svetlana G. , Kurinnaia Oxana S. , Yurov Yuri B.
Published: February 2014

We present a case of an interstitial subtelomeric 10q26 deletion in a male child with moderate developmental delay and minor dysmorphic features. Using array comparative genomic hybridization (CGH) and fluorescencein situhybridization (FISH), we have detected an interstitial deletion at 10q26.2q26.3 encompassing a 5.8 Mb region and spanning 24 genes. Interestingly, losses of this chromosome 10 region have not been previously associated with a phenotype outcome. According to anin silicoevaluation, we have suggested thatPPP2R2DandBNIP3losses are likely a cause of developmental delay in the index patient. Our data allow to speculating that haploinsufficiency of these two genes in 10q26.3, which is usually ignored in the context of chromosome 10q deletions, has a phenotypic effect.
Games under Ambiguous Payoffs and Optimistic Attitudes
Authors: Xiong Wei
Published: February 2014

In real-life games, the consequence or payoff of a strategy profile and a player's belief about the consequence of a strategy profile are often ambiguous, and players may have different optimistic attitudes with respect to a strategy profile. To handle this problem, this paper proposes a decision rule using the Hurwicz criterion and Dempster-Shafer theory. Based on this rule, we introduce a new kind of games, called ambiguous games, and propose a solution concept that is appropriate for this sort of games. Moreover, we also study how the beliefs regarding possible payoffs and optimistic attitudes may affect the solutions of such a game. To illustrate our model, we provide an analysis of a scenario concerning allocating resource of defending and attacking in military contexts.
Bromate Removal from Water Using Doped Iron Nanoparticles on Multiwalled Carbon Nanotubes (CNTS)
Authors: Zeino Aasem , Abulkibash Abdalla , Khaled Mazen , Atieh Muataz
Published: February 2014

The raw carbon nanotubes (CNTs) were prepared by the floating catalyst chemical vapor deposition method. The raw carbon nanotubes were functionalized, impregnated with iron nanoparticles, and characterized using high resolution transmission electron microscopy (HRTEM), scanning electron microscopy with energy dispersive spectroscopy (SEM‐EDS), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), Differential Scanning Calorimetry (DSC), and thermogravimetric analysis (TGA). The three types of these multiwalled carbon nanotubes were applied as adsorbents for the removal of bromate from drinking water. The effects of the pH, the concentration of anion, the adsorbent dose, the contact time, and the coanions on the adsorption process have been investigated. The results concluded that the highest adsorption capacities were 0.3460 and 0.3220 mg/g through using CNTs‐Fe and raw CNTs, respectively, at the same conditions. The results showed that the CNTs‐Fe gives higher adsorption capacity compared with the raw CNTs and the functionalized CNTs. The presence of nitrate () in the solution decreases the adsorption capacity of all CNTs compared with chloride (Cl−) associated with pH adjustment caused by nitric acid or hydrochloric acid, respectively. However, the adsorption of all MWNCTs types increases as the pH of solution decreases.
Methyl Jasmonate: Putative Mechanisms of Action on Cancer Cells Cycle, Metabolism, and Apoptosis
Authors: Cesari Italo Mario , Carvalho Erika , Figueiredo Rodrigues Mariana , Mendonça Bruna dos Santos , Amôedo Nivea Dias , Rumjanek Franklin David
Published: February 2014

Methyl jasmonate (MJ), an oxylipid that induces defense-related mechanisms in plants, has been shown to be active against cancer cells bothin vitroandin vivo, without affecting normal cells. Here we review most of the described MJ activities in an attempt to get an integrated view and better understanding of its multifaceted modes of action. MJ (1) arrests cell cycle, inhibiting cell growth and proliferation, (2) causes cell death through the intrinsic/extrinsic proapoptotic, p53-independent apoptotic, and nonapoptotic (necrosis) pathways, (3) detaches hexokinase from the voltage-dependent anion channel, dissociating glycolytic and mitochondrial functions, decreasing the mitochondrial membrane potential, favoring cytochromecrelease and ATP depletion, activating pro-apoptotic, and inactivating antiapoptotic proteins, (4) induces reactive oxygen species mediated responses, (5) stimulates MAPK-stress signaling and redifferentiation in leukemia cells, (6) inhibits overexpressed proinflammatory enzymes in cancer cells such as aldo-keto reductase 1 and 5-lipoxygenase, and (7) inhibits cell migration and shows antiangiogenic and antimetastatic activities. Finally, MJ may act as a chemosensitizer to some chemotherapics helping to overcome drug resistant. The complete lack of toxicity to normal cells and the rapidity by which MJ causes damage to cancer cells turn MJ into a promising anticancer agent that can be used alone or in combination with other agents.
C-Reactive Protein: Clinical and Epidemiological Perspectives
Authors: Salazar Juan , Martínez María Sofía , Chávez Mervin , Toledo Alexandra , Añez Roberto , Torres Yaquelín , Apruzzese Vanessa , Silva Carlos , Rojas Joselyn , Bermúdez Valmore
Published: February 2014

An important etiopathogenic component of cardiovascular disease is atherosclerosis, with inflammation being an essential event in the pathophysiology of all clinical pictures it comprises. In recent years, several molecules implicated in this process have been studied in order to assess cardiovascular risk in both primary and secondary prevention. C-reactive protein is a plasmatic protein of the pentraxin family and an acute phase reactant, very useful as a general inflammation marker. Currently, it is one of the most profoundly researched molecules in the cardiovascular field, yet its clinical applicability regarding cardiovascular risk remains an object of discussion, considered by some as a simple marker and by others as a true risk factor. In this sense, numerous studies propose its utilization as a predictor of cardiovascular risk through the use of high-sensitivity quantification methods for the detection of values <1 mg/L, following strict international guidelines. Increasing interest in these clinical findings has led to the creation of modified score systems including C-reactive protein concentrations, in order to enhance risk scores commonly used in clinical practice and offer improved care to patients with cardiovascular disease, which remains the first cause of mortality at the worldwide, national, and regional scenarios.
Quantification of Gymnemagenin and β-Sitosterol in Marketed Herbal Formulation by Validated Normal Phase HPTLC Method
Authors: Potawale Sachin E. , Gabhe Satish Y. , Mahadik Kakasaheb R.
Published: February 2014

This research study describes development and validation of new, rapid, accurate, robust, and precise, high performance thin layer chromatographic (HPTLC) method for concurrent quantitative determination of gymnemagenin and β-sitosterol in herbal formulation with densitometric detection. Chromatographic separation was achieved on Merck aluminum HPTLC plates precoated with silica gel 60 F254. The optimized solvent system consisted of toluene : ethyl acetate : methanol (6.5 : 2.5 : 1.4, v/v/v). Developed plates were derivatized with 5% sulphuric acid reagent followed by heating at 110°C for 4 min in a preheated oven and scanned at 423 nm in reflectance-absorbance mode. The retention factor for gymnemagenin and β-sitosterol was found to be 0.27±0.02 and 0.78±0.02, respectively. The proposed densitometric method was validated according to ICH Q2 (R1) guidelines. Results were found to be linear over a range of 100–1200 ng band−1 and 200–1200 ng band−1 for gymnemagenin and β-sitosterol, respectively. The percent content of gymnemagenin and β-sitosterol in the marketed polyherbal formulation was found to be 0.0405% and 0.1377%, respectively. The proposed HPTLC method can be used for quantification of gymnemagenin and β-sitosterol in marketed polyherbal formulation used in the study in quality-control laboratories.
The Association between Blunt Cardiac Injury and Isolated Sternal Fracture
Authors: Dua Anahita , McMaster Jason , Desai Pathik J. , Desai Sapan S. , Kuy SreyRam , Mata Maggy , Cooper Jamie
Published: February 2014

The treatment of isolated sternal fractures (ISF) throughout the world is heterogeneous. This study aimed to identify the incidence, morbidity, and mortality associated with isolated fractures of the sternum and describe current practice for diagnosis and management of ISF and cardiac injury at a level I trauma center in the UK. A retrospective cohort study of adult patients (>16 years) with ISF presenting from 2006 to 2010 was conducted. Eighty-eight patients with ISF were identified. Most patients (88%, 77) were admitted to hospital with 66% (58) of them discharged within 48 hours. Two (2%) patients had an ER EKG with abnormality but both resolved to normal sinus rhythm within 6 hours of follow-up. Serum CEs were drawn from 55 (63%) patients with only 2 (2%) having a rise in serum troponin >0.04; however, in both of these patients troponin quickly normalized. Six (7%) patients underwent echocardiograms without significant findings. In all 88 patients with ISF, no cases of clinically significant cardiac injury were identified. Patients presenting with an isolated sternal fracture with no changes on EKG or chest X-ray do not warrant an admission to hospital and may be discharged from the ER.
Comparison between Conventional and Real-Time PCR Assays for Diagnosis of Visceral Leishmaniasis
Authors: Pereira Mariana R. , Rocha-Silva Fabiana , Graciele-Melo Cidiane , Lafuente Camila R. , Magalhães Telcia , Caligiorne Rachel B.
Published: February 2014

The diagnosis of visceral leishmaniasis (VL) is a challenging issue and several studies worldwide have evaluated the different tools to reach a diagnostic solution. The polymerase chain reaction (PCR) has proven to be effective in detecting the genome ofLeishmaniaspecies in different biological samples. In this study, we compared the conventional PCR and real-time PCR using the Sybr Green system and their application in molecular diagnosis of visceral leishmaniasis in peripheral blood as a biological sample. The genus-specific conserved region of kinetoplast DNA (kDNA) was the target of amplification. We studied 30 samples from patients with suspect of visceral leishmaniasis who were treated by the Medical Clinic of Santa Casa de Belo Horizonte Hospital, Brazil. Among the samples studied, 19 had a confirmed diagnosis for VL by serology and/or by clinical findings. Among these 19 samples, 63% (n=12) presented positive results for serology and 79% (n=15) positive results in both PCR methodologies. This fact suggests that the PCR technique can assist in the diagnosis of visceral leishmaniasis in patients who do not have detectable antibodies by serology but can present the genome of the parasite circulating in whole blood. Also, it was possible to observe that there was conformity between the results of the techniques of cPCR and qPCR using the Sybr Green system in 100% of samples analyzed. These data suggest that both PCR techniques were equally effective for detection of the genome of the parasite in the patient’s blood.
Effect of Nitrogen Impurity on Electronic Properties of Boron Nanotubes
Authors: Jain Sandeep Kumar , Srivastava Pankaj
Published: February 2014

For the first time we present electronic band structure and density of states for nitrogen doped hexagonal ultrathin boron nanotubes in the framework of density functional theory. The considered models of nanotubes below 5 Å diameter are armchair (3,3), zigzag (5,0), and chiral (4,2). The impurity chosen for the study is nitrogen and concentration of impurity atoms is limited to two. The study reveals that (3,3) BNT retains its metallic nature after nitrogen doping. However, metallicity gets increased which is attributed by the excess electrons of nitrogen. Further, it also brings out that (5,0) BNT which is originally metal transforms into semiconductor after nitrogen interaction and the band gap at G point increases with the impurity. Moreover, the band gap of (4,2) BNT reduces significantly and turns into semimetal for nitrogen doping. Thus, the nitrogen impurity has the predominant effect on the electronic properties of BNTs and therefore can be regarded as suitable candidates for nanoelectronic and field emission devices.
Association of IL10-1082 and IFN-γ+874 Polymorphisms with Cervical Cancer among Tunisian Women
Authors: Zidi Sabrina , Benothmen Yosra , Sghaier Ikram , Ghazoueni Ezzeddine , Mezlini Amel , Slimen Bouraoui , Yacoubi-Loueslati Besma
Published: February 2014

Objective. The aim of this study was to investigate the role of IL10-1082 and IFN-γ+874 polymorphisms in susceptibility to cervical cancer among Tunisian women. Study Design. The IL10-1082 and IFN-γ+874 polymorphisms were analyzed by ARMS-PCR in 160 healthy women and 122 with cervical cancer. The search for associations between those polymorphisms and cervical cancer was based on the χ2 test or Fisher's exact test. Results. The IFN-γ+874 polymorphism showed significant increased frequency of T allele in healthy controls compared with patients (OR = 0.71, 95% CI = 0.50–1.01, and P=0.0459) and individuals with homozygote IFN-γ+874 T/T genotype were at lesser risk of cervical cancer (OR = 0.53, 95% CI = 0.31–0.92, and P=0.015). However, carriers of allele have higher risk for developing cervical cancer (OR = 1.88, 95% CI = 1.09–3.24, and P=0.015). At the polymorphic nucleotide in position 1082 of the IL10 promoter, no differences were found between patients and controls subjects. Conclusion. Our study shows that the T/T genotype polymorphism of IFN-γ+874 T>A is a protective factor for cervical cancer among Tunisian women.