bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Osteoid Osteoma of the Distal Humerus Mimicking Sequela of Pediatric Supracondylar Fracture: Arthroscopic Resection—Case Report and A Literature Review
Authors: Font Segura Jordi , Barrera-Ochoa Sergi , Gargallo-Margarit Albert , Correa-Vázquez Eva , Isart-Torruella Anna , Mir Bullo Xavier
Published: March 2013

Osteoid osteoma (OO) is a small and painful benign osteoblastic tumour located preferentially in the shaft of long bones near the metaphyseal junctions, with a predilection for the lower limbs. Juxta- and intra-articular OOs are rare and even though hip, elbow, and talus are the most commonly reported locations, they may be found in any joint accounting for approximately 13% of all osteoid osteomas. There is usually a significant time delay between symptom initiation and diagnosis when the lesion is present in an uncommon location due to the diagnostic challenge it presents due to the lack of classical clinical signs and/or radiographic features found in the extra-articular lesions. A case of a distal humerus OO of a 15-year-old girl is presented to point out that a confounding factor, such as a previous paediatric supracondylar fracture, may further delay the already difficult diagnosis of a juxta- or intra-articular osteoid osteoma and also to emphasize the possibility of arthroscopic treatment of such lesions.
On the Incompressible Limit for the Compressible Flows of Liquid Crystals under Strong Stratification on Bounded Domains
Authors: Kwon Young-Sam
Published: March 2013

We study the incompressible limit of weak solutions for the compressible flows of liquid crystals under strong stratification on bounded domains.
Synthesis and Anticancer Properties of Silver(I) Complexes Containing 2,6-Bis(substituted)pyridine Derivatives
Authors: Ali Korany A. , Abd-Elzaher Mokhles M. , Mahmoud Khaled
Published: March 2013

Several new 2,6-bis(substituted)pyridine ligands and 2,6-bis(substituted)pyridine Ag(I) nitrate complexes were synthesized and characterized spectroscopically. The newly synthesized ligands include pyridine-2,6-bis(3-oxopropanenitrile) (1), pyridine-2,6-bis(2-cyano-N-phenyl-3-oxopropanethioamide) (2), and pyridine-2,6-bis((E)-2-(2-phenylhydrazono)-3-oxopropanenitrile) (3). The newly synthesized ligands and silver(I) complexes were evaluated for their in vitro anticancer activity against four human cancer cell lines including hepatocellular carcinoma (HePG2), lung adenocarcinoma (A549), colon carcinoma (HT29), and breast adenocarcinoma (MCF7). Most of the newly synthesized silver(I) complexes exhibited better activity than the ligands, and the results have been compared with doxorubicin as a reference drug.
Glossopharyngeal Nerve Block versus Lidocaine Spray to Improve Tolerance in Upper Gastrointestinal Endoscopy
Authors: Ortega Ramírez Moisés , Linares Segovia Benigno , García Cuevas Marco Antonio , Sánchez Romero Jorge Luis , Botello Buenrostro Illich , Amador Licona Norma , Guízar Mendoza Juan Manuel , Guerrero Romero Jesús Francisco , Vázquez Zárate Víctor Manuel
Published: March 2013

Aim of the Study. To compare the effect of glossopharyngeal nerve block with topical anesthesia on the tolerance of patients to upper gastrointestinal endoscopy.Methods. We performed a clinical trial in one hundred patients undergoing upper gastrointestinal endoscopy. Subjects were randomly assigned to one of the following two groups: (1) treatment with bilateral glossopharyngeal nerve block (GFNB) and intravenous midazolam or (2) treatment with topical anesthetic (TASS) and intravenous midazolam. We evaluated sedation, tolerance to the procedure, hemodynamic stability, and adverse symptoms.Results. We studied 46 men and 54 women, from 17 to 78 years of age. The procedure was reported without discomfort in 48 patients (88%) in the GFNB group and 32 (64%) in the TAAS group; 6 patients (12%) in GFNB group and 18 (36%) in TAAS group reported the procedure as little discomfort (χ2=3.95,P=0.04). There was no difference in frequency of nausea (4% in both groups) and retching, 4% versus 8% for GFNB and TASS group, respectively (P=0.55).Conclusions. The use of glossopharyngeal nerve block provides greater comfort and tolerance to the patient undergoing upper gastrointestinal endoscopy. It also reduces the need for sedation.
Oxidative Stress Is Related to the Deleterious Effects of Heme Oxygenase-1 in anIn VivoNeuroinflammatory Rat Model
Authors: Tronel Claire , Rochefort Gaël Y. , Arlicot Nicolas , Bodard Sylvie , Chalon Sylvie , Antier Daniel
Published: March 2013

Heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1) induction is associated with beneficial or deleterious effects depending on the experimental conditions adopted and the neurodegenerative rodent models used. The present study aimed first to evaluate the effects of cerebral HO-1 induction in anin vivorat model of neuroinflammation by intrastriatal injection of quinolinic acid (QA) and secondly to explore the role played by reactive oxygen species (ROS) and free iron (Fe2+) derived from heme catabolism promoted by HO-1. Chronic I.P. treatment with the HO-1 inductor and substrate hemin was responsible for a significant dose-related increase of cerebral HO-1 production. Brain tissue loss, microglial activation, and neuronal death were significantly higher in rats receiving QA plus hemin (H-QA) versus QA and controls. Significant increase of ROS production in H-QA rat brain was inhibited by the specific HO-1 inhibitor ZnPP which supports the idea that ROS level augmentation in hemin-treated animals is a direct consequence of HO-1 induction. The cerebral tissue loss and ROS level in hemin-treated rats receiving the iron chelator deferoxamine were significantly decreased, demonstrating the involvement of Fe2+in brain ROS production. Therefore, the deleterious effects of HO-1 expression in thisin vivoneuroinflammatory model were linked to a hyperproduction of ROS, itself promoted by free iron liberation.
Temporal and Spatial Coexistence of Archaeal and BacterialamoAGenes and Gene Transcripts in Lake Lucerne
Authors: Vissers Elisabeth W. , Anselmetti Flavio S. , Bodelier Paul L. E. , Muyzer Gerard , Schleper Christa , Tourna Maria , Laanbroek Hendrikus J.
Published: March 2013

Despite their crucial role in the nitrogen cycle, freshwater ecosystems are relatively rarely studied for active ammonia oxidizers (AO). This study of Lake Lucerne determined the abundance of bothamoAgenes and gene transcripts of ammonia-oxidizing archaea (AOA) and bacteria (AOB) over a period of 16 months, shedding more light on the role of both AO in a deep, alpine lake environment. At the surface, at 42 m water depth, and in the water layer immediately above the sediment, AOA generally outnumbered AOB. However, in the surface water during summer stratification, when both AO were low in abundance, AOB were more numerous than AOA. Temporal distribution patterns of AOA and AOB were comparable. Higher abundances ofamoAgene transcripts were observed at the onset and end of summer stratification. In summer, archaealamoAgenes and transcripts correlated negatively with temperature and conductivity. Concentrations of ammonium and oxygen did not vary enough to explain theamoAgene and transcript dynamics. The observed herbivorous zooplankton may have caused a hidden flux of mineralized ammonium and a change in abundance of genes and transcripts. At the surface, AO might have been repressed during summer stratification due to nutrient limitation caused by active phytoplankton.
Pharmacological Inhibition of p38 Mitogen-Activated Protein Kinases Affects KC/CXCL1-Induced Intraluminal Crawling, Transendothelial Migration, and Chemotaxis of NeutrophilsIn Vivo
Authors: Xu Najia , Hossain Mokarram , Liu Lixin
Published: March 2013

p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) signalling is critical in the pathophysiology of a variety of inflammatory processes. Leukocyte recruitment to the site of inflammation is a multistep process governed by specific signalling cascades. After adhesion in the lumen, many leukocytes crawl to optimal sites at endothelial junctions and transmigrate to extravascular tissue in a Mac-1-dependent manner. The signalling mechanisms that regulate postadhesion steps of intraluminal crawling, transmigration, and chemotaxis in tissue remain incompletely understood. The present study explored the effect of p38 MAPK inhibitor SB203580 on various parameters of neutrophil recruitment triggered by chemokine KC (CXCL1) gradient. Neutrophil-endothelial interactions in microvasculature of murine cremaster muscle were determined using intravital microscopy and time-lapsed video analysis. SB203580 (100 nM) did not change leukocyte rolling but significantly attenuated neutrophil adhesion, emigration, and transmigration and impaired the initiation of neutrophil crawling and transmigration. In response to KC chemotactic gradient, SB203580 significantly reduced the velocity of migration and chemotaxis index of neutrophils in tissue. The upregulation of Mac-1 expression in neutrophils stimulated by KC was significantly blunted by SB203580in vitro. Collectively, our findings demonstrate that pharmacological suppression of p38 MAPK significantly impairs multiple steps of neutrophil recruitmentin vivo.
Photocatalytic Properties of Microwave-Synthesized TiO2 and ZnO Nanoparticles Using Malachite Green Dye
Authors: Singh A. K. , Nakate Umesh T.
Published: March 2013

TiO2 and ZnO nanoparticles (NPs) were synthesized using microwave-assisted method. Synthesized NPs were characterized for their structure, morphology, and elemental composition using X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and energy dispersive spectroscopy (EDS). The crystallite size of synthesized NPs of TiO2 and ZnO was about 12.3 and 18.7 nm as obtained from the Scherrer formula from the most intense XRD peak. The synthesized NPs have been found to be in stoichiometric ratio having anatase and hexagonal wurtzite structure for TiO2 and ZnO, respectively, and are spherical in shape. Surface area of TiO2 and ZnO NPs was found to be about 43.52 m2/g and 7.7 m2/g. Photocatalytic (PC) properties of synthesized NPs were studied for malachite green (MG) dye under UV light. TiO2 NPs were found to be highly photocatalytically active among the two, having efficiency and apparent photodegradation rate of 49.35% and , respectively.
A Clue to Understand Environmental Influence on Friction and Wear of Diamond-Like Nanocomposite Thin Film
Authors: Jana Sukhendu , Das Sayan , Gangopadhyay Utpal , Mondal Anup , Ghosh Prajit
Published: March 2013

The wear and friction of diamond-like nanocomposite (DLN) film have been investigated in air with different relative humidity (RH), under deionized (DI) water and saline solution. The structure of the film has been characterized by Fourier transform infrared (FTIR), Raman spectroscopy, and scanning electron microscope (SEM). The result shows two interpenetrating network structure: a–C:H and a–Si:O, and they are interpenetrated by Si–C bonding. The tribological performance has been measured using ball-on-disc tribometer with tungsten carbide ball as counterbody at 10 N normal load. Results show that with increasing relative humidity (RH) from 35% to 80%, the coefficient of friction (COF) increases gradually from 0.005 to 0.074, whereas with increasing RH the wear factor decreases from9.8×10−8 mm3/Nm and attains a minimum value of2.7×10−8 mm3/Nm at 50% RH. With further increase of RH the wear factor increases again. Moreover, in DI water and especially in saline solution, both the COF and wear factor have been found to be significantly low. A clue has been interpreted to understand environmental dependency, considering the effect of surface dangling bonds, charge transfer, and chemical interactions.
Molecular and Survival Differences between Familial and Sporadic Gastric Cancers
Authors: Fang Wen-Liang , Chang Shih-Ching , Lan Yuan-Tzu , Huang Kuo-Hung , Lo Su-Shun , Li Anna Fen-Yau , Chi Chin-Wen , Wu Chew-Wun , Chiou Shih-Hwa
Published: March 2013

Mismatch repair (MMR) and germline E-cadherin (CDH1) mutations are two of the major pathways of carcinogenesis in familial gastric cancer (GC). A total of 260 sporadic and 66 familial GC patients were enrolled and molecular and survival differences were compared. Familial GC patients had earlier onset and were diagnosed at an earlier stage and had both a better 5-year overall survival rate and 3-year disease-free survival rate compared with sporadic GC patients. Only in diffuse type GC, the MSI-H phenotype and abnormal MMR protein expression were significantly higher in familial GC than in sporadic GC. In MSI-H GC, MLH1 promoter methylation was slightly higher in sporadic GC than familial GC (50% versus 23.1%), while the frequency of MMR gene mutation was slightly higher in familial GC than in sporadic GC (15.4% versus 3.1%). All of the patients with MMR gene mutation had diffuse type GC. Among familial GC patients with CDH1 mutation, most patients (72.3%) had diffuse type GC. In summary, for familial GC patients, we recommend screening of MSI status and CDH1 mutation especially for diffuse type GC. Because of the low incidence, mutation analysis of MMR gene might be considered in MSI-H familial GC with diffuse type only.
Biopsychosocial Aspects of Atypical Odontalgia
Authors: Ciaramella A. , Paroli M. , Lonia L. , Bosco M. , Poli P.
Published: March 2013

Background. A few studies have found somatosensory abnormalities in atypical odontalgia (AO) patients. The aim of the study is to explore the presence of specific abnormalities in facial pain patients that can be considered as psychophysical factors predisposing to AO. Materials and Methods. The AO subjects () have been compared to pain-free (), trigeminal neuralgia (), migraine (), and temporomandibular disorder (). The neurometer current perception threshold (CPT) was used to investigate somatosensory perception. Structured clinical interviews based on the DSM-IV axis I and DSM III-R axis II criteria for psychiatric disorders and self-assessment questionnaires were used to evaluate psychopathology and aggressive behavior among subjects. Results. Subjects with AO showed a lower Aβ, Aδ, and C trigeminal fiber pain perception threshold when compared to a pain-free control group. Resentment was determined to be inversely related to Aβ (rho: 0.62, ), Aδ (rho: 0.53, ) and C fibers (rho: 0.54, ), and depression was inversely related with C fiber (rho: 0.52, ) perception threshold only in AO subjects. Conclusion. High levels of depression and resentment can be considered predictive psychophysical factors for the development of AO after dental extraction.
Group Factor Analysis for Alzheimer’s Disease
Authors: Cheng Wei-Chen , Cheng Philip E. , Liou Michelle
Published: March 2013

For any neuroimaging study in an institute, brain images are normally acquired from healthy controls and patients using a single track of protocol. Traditionally, the factor analysis procedure analyzes image data for healthy controls and patients either together or separately. The former unifies the factor pattern across subjects and the latter deals with measurement errors individually. This paper proposes a group factor analysis model for neuroimaging applications by assigning separate factor patterns to control and patient groups. The clinical diagnosis information is used for categorizing subjects into groups in the analysis procedure. The proposed method allows different groups of subjects to share a common covariance matrix of measurement errors. The empirical results show that the proposed method provides more reasonable factor scores and patterns and is more suitable for medical research based on image data as compared with the conventional factor analysis model.
Posttransplant Lymphoproliferative Disease after Lung Transplantation
Authors: Neuringer Isabel P.
Published: March 2013

Posttransplant lymphoproliferative disease (PTLD) after lung transplantation occurs due to immunosuppressant therapy which limits antiviral host immunity and permits Epstein-Barr viral (EBV) replication and transformation of B cells. Mechanistically, EBV survives due to latency, escape from cytotoxic T cell responses, and downregulation of host immunity to EBV. Clinical presentation of EBV may occur within the lung allograft early posttransplantation or later onset which is more likely to be disseminated. Improvements in monitoring through EBV viral load have provided a means of earlier detection; yet, sensitivity and specificity of EBV load monitoring after lung transplantation may require further optimization. Once PTLD develops, staging and tissue diagnosis are essential to appropriate histopathological classification, prognosis, and guidance for therapy. The overall paradigm to treat PTLD has evolved over the past several years and depends upon assessment of risk such as EBV-naïve status, clinical presentation, and stage and sites of disease. In general, clinical practice involves reduction in immunosuppression, anti-CD20 biologic therapy, and/or use of plasma cell inhibition, followed by chemotherapy for refractory PTLD. This paper focuses upon the immunobiology of EBV and PTLD, as well as the clinical presentation, diagnosis, prognosis, and emerging treatments for PTLD after lung transplantation.
Predictors of Emotional Distress and Wellbeing 2–5 Years After Stroke
Authors: Bergersen H. , Schanke A.-K. , Sunnerhagen K. S.
Published: March 2013

Objectives. To identify predictors of emotional distress and psychological wellbeing in stroke survivors 2–5 years after discharge from comprehensive rehabilitation. Material and Methods. The Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS), the General Health Questionnaire (GHQ-30), and questions regarding life situations were mailed to former patients. Multiple regression analyses were performed. Results. The responses from 68 participants (37% women), of an average age of 58 years old, were used. Emotional distress (HADS > 10) was identified in 41%. Well-being (GHQ-30 < 6) was identified in 46%. Not surprisingly, there was a strongly negative association between well-being (GHQ-30 < 6) and emotional distress (HADS > 10) at follow up. Dependency in toileting during rehabilitation predicted emotional distress 2–5 years later. Finally, well-being at followup was predicted by age > 65 years, independent mobility, perceiving proxies as supportive, and being in employment. Conclusions. Dependence in the activities of daily living 3–6 months after-injury predicted emotional distress 2–5 years after-stroke. Being over 65 years, having an occupation, proxy support and being less dependent all predicted well-being. Emotional distress and well-being were clearly negatively associated. Gender, education, marital status, and type of stroke were not associated with the outcome measures.
High-Output Cardiac Failure Revealing Primary Plasma Cell Leukemia
Authors: Chaoui Driss , Gallet Bruno , Genet Philippe , Mbungani Babette , Al Jijakli Ahmad , Arakelyan Nina , Mesbah Louisa , Sutton Laurent
Published: March 2013

High-output cardiac failure in multiple myeloma (MM) is related to arteriovenous shunting in bone infiltrate disease. We describe such a complication in a patient with primary plasma cell leukemia (pPCL) without bone disease. We review the mechanisms that could be involved. As previously described, traditional cardiac failure therapy is not effective. pPCL therapy should not be delayed.
Are Preoperative Kattan and Stephenson Nomograms Predicting Biochemical Recurrence after Radical Prostatectomy Applicable in the Chinese Population?
Authors: Yeung Victor H. W. , Chiu Yi , Yu Sylvia S. Y. , Au W. H. , Chan Steve W. H.
Published: March 2013

Purpose. Kattan and Stephenson nomograms are based on the outcomes of patients with prostate cancer recruited in the USA, but their applicability to Chinese patients is yet to be validated. We aim at studying the predictive accuracy of these nomograms in the Chinese population. Patients and Methods. A total of 408 patients who underwent laparoscopic or open radical resection of prostate from 1995 to 2009 were recruited. The preoperative clinical parameters of these patients were collected, and they were followed up regularly with PSA monitored. Biochemical recurrence was defined as two or more consecutive PSA levels >0.4 ng/mL after radical resection of prostate or secondary cancer treatment. Results. The overall observed 5‐year and 10‐year biochemical recurrence‐free survival rates were 68.3% and 59.8%, which was similar to the predicted values by the Kattan and Stephenson nomograms, respectively. The results of our study achieved a good concordance with both nomograms (Kattan: 5‐years, 0.64; Stephenson: 5‐years, 0.62, 10‐years, 0.71). Conclusions. The incidence of prostate cancer in Hong Kong is increasing together with the patients’ awareness of this disease. Despite the fact that Kattan nomograms were derived from the western population, it has been validated in our study to be useful in Chinese patients as well.
Hydrogen Storage of a Fixed Bed of Nanocrystalline Mixed Oxides
Authors: Salam M. Abdus , Sufian Suriati , Lwin Ye , Murugesan T.
Published: March 2013

Nanocrystalline hydrotalcite derived mixed oxides containing magnesium, cobalt, and aluminum (MCAM) (M(1−x)AlxO(1+x/2); M = Mg or Co/Mg and Co and x = molar ratios) have been synthesized successfully and showed reversible hydrogen storage capacity at near ambient condition using fixed bed. ICP-MS and XRD analysis confirmed the adsorbent phases and their homogeneity. Adsorbent morphology and textural properties have been characterized using FESEM, BET and TEM analysis techniques. Nano-crystalline and porous mixed oxides exhibited 3 wt% H2 storage capacity and desorbed 57% of adsorbed H2. Spillover phenomena are observed through FTIR analysis. Adsorption enthalpy (ΔH) and entropy (ΔS) change were −25.58 kJ/mol and −59.98 J/mol·K, respectively, which implied a prospective feature of reversible hydrogen adsorption on nano-crystalline mixed oxide.
Posttranslational Protein Modification in the Salivary Glands of Sjögren’s Syndrome Patients
Authors: Herrera-Esparza Rafael , Rodríguez-Rodríguez Mayra , Pérez-Pérez María Elena , Badillo-Soto Martha Adriana , Torres-del-Muro Felipe , Bollain-y-Goytia Juan José , Pacheco-Tovar Deyanira , Avalos-Díaz Esperanza
Published: March 2013

The present study investigated posttranslational reactions in the salivary glands of patients with Sjögren’s syndrome. We analysed the biopsies of primary Sjögren’s patients using immunohistochemistry and a tag-purified anticyclic citrullinated protein (CCP) antibody to detect citrullinated peptides, and the presence of peptidylarginine deiminase 2 (PAD2) was assessed simultaneously. The present work demonstrated the weak presence of the PAD2 enzyme in some normal salivary glands, although PAD2 expression was increased considerably in Sjögren’s patients. The presence of citrullinated proteins was also detected in the salivary tissues of Sjögren’s patients, which strongly supports thein situposttranslational modification of proteins in this setting. Furthermore, the mutual expression of CCP and PAD2 suggests that this posttranslational modification is enzyme dependent. In conclusion, patients with Sjögren’s syndrome expressed the catalytic machinery to produce posttranslational reactions that may result in autoantigen triggering.
Identification and Biotechnological Application of Novel Regulatory Genes Involved inStreptomycesPolyketide Overproduction through Reverse Engineering Strategy
Authors: Nah Ji-Hye , Kim Hye-Jin , Lee Han-Na , Lee Mi-Jin , Choi Si-Sun , Kim Eung-Soo
Published: March 2013

Polyketide belongs to a family of abundant natural products typically produced by the filamentous soil bacteriaStreptomyces. Similar to the biosynthesis of most secondary metabolites produced in theStreptomycesspecies, polyketide compounds are synthesized through tight regulatory networks in the cell, and thus extremely low levels of polyketides are typically observed in wild-type strains. Although manyStreptomycespolyketides and their derivatives have potential to be used as clinically important pharmaceutical drugs, traditional strain improvement strategies such as random recursive mutagenesis have long been practiced with little understanding of the molecular basis underlying enhanced polyketide production. Recently, identifying, understanding, and applying a novel polyketide regulatory system identified from various Omics approaches, has become an important tool for rationalStreptomycesstrain improvement. In this paper, DNA microarray-driven reverse engineering efforts for improving titers of polyketides are briefly summarized, primarily focusing on our recent results of identification and application of novel global regulatory genes such aswblA, SCO1712, and SCO5426 inStreptomycesspecies. Sequential targeted gene manipulation involved in polyketide biosynthetic reguation synergistically provided an efficient and rational strategy forStreptomycesstrain improvement. Moreover, the engineered regulation-optimizedStreptomycesmutant strain was further used as a surrogate host for heterologous expression of polyketide pathway.
Kinetics and Mechanistic Studies on Oxidation of Levocarnitine by Bromamine‐T in HCl Medium Catalyzed by Ru(III)
Authors: Ramachandrappa R. , Iyengar Pushpa , Joseph Usha
Published: March 2013

A kinetic study on RuCl3‐catalysed oxidation of levocarnitine (LC) by sodium N‐bromo‐p‐toluenesulphonamide or bromamine‐T (BAT) has been carried out in HCl medium at 303 K. The reaction rate shows a first order dependence on [BAT]0 and fractional order with respect to both [LC]0 and [H+]. Addition of the reaction product, p‐toluenesulphonamide, retards the rate. The addition of RuCl3 and chloride ions to the reaction mixture shows an increase in the rate of the reaction. The dielectric effect is positive. The variation of ionic strength of the medium has no significant effect on the rate of the reaction. The reaction fails to initiate polymerization of acrylamide. Michaelis‐Menten type of kinetics has been proposed. Thermodynamic parameters have been computed from Arrhenius plot by studying the reaction at different temperatures. The reaction stoichiometry and oxidation products were identified. Based on the experimental observations a suitable mechanism was proposed and rate law deduced.
An Inductorless Cascaded Phase-Locked Loop with Pulse Injection Locking Technique in 90 nm CMOS
Authors: Lee Sang-yeop , Ito Hiroyuki , Amakawa Shuhei , Ishihara Noboru , Masu Kazuya
Published: March 2013

An inductorless phase-locked loop with subharmonic pulse injection locking was realized (PLL
area: 0.11 mm2) by adopting 90 nm Si CMOS technology. The proposed circuit is configured with two cascaded PLLs; one of them is a reference PLL that generates reference signals to the other one from low-frequency external reference signals. The other is a main PLL that generates high-frequency output signals. A high-frequency half-integral subharmonic locking technique was used to decrease the phase noise characteristics. For a 50 MHz input reference signal, without injection locking, the 1 MHz offset phase noise was −88 dBc/Hz at a PLL output frequency of 7.2 GHz (= 144 × 50 MHz); with injection locking, the noise was −101 dBc/Hz (spur level: −31 dBc; power consumption from a 1.0 V power supply: 25 mW).
Response of Cold-Tolerant Aspergillus spp. to Solubilization of Fe and Al Phosphate in Presence of Different Nutritional Sources
Authors: Rinu K. , Malviya Mukesh Kumar , Sati Priyanka , Tiwari S. C. , Pandey Anita
Published: March 2013

Three species of Aspergillus, namely, A. niger, A. glaucus and A. sydowii, isolated from soil samples collected from the Indian Himalayan Region (IHR), have been investigated for solubilization of aluminium phosphate and iron phosphate in the presence of different carbon and nitrogen sources. Preference of each fungal species varied for nitrogen and carbon sources, in terms of phosphate-solubilization. Among three species, Aspergillus niger gave the best results; it solubilized 32% and 8% of the supplemented aluminium phosphate and iron phosphate, respectively. The results indicated that the effect of carbon and nitrogen sources can influence the phosphate solubilizing efficiency of all the three Aspergillus spp. tested. All the three species were found to be plant-growth promoters in bioassays conducted under greenhouse conditions. The Al and Fe phosphate solubilization efficiency, investigated in the present study, is at the lower end of their previously reported tricalcium phosphate solubilization efficiency. The cultures are likely to have better field applications in agrobiotechnology, due to their potential towards solubilization of Al and Fe phosphates, which are known to have lower solubility through microbial activity.
Glucagon-Like Peptide-1 Analog Liraglutide Protects against Diabetic Cardiomyopathy by the Inhibition of the Endoplasmic Reticulum Stress Pathway
Authors: Liu Jieyu , Liu Yu , Chen Li , Wang Yuehui , Li Junqi
Published: March 2013

Aim. This study aimed to investigate whether the glucagon-like peptide-1 analog liraglutide (LIRA) can protect against diabetic cardiomyopathy and explore the related mechanism.Methods. Rats were divided into 6 groups: a nondiabetic group, diabetic cardiomyopathy rats without LIRA treatment, diabetic cardiomyopathy rats with LIRA treatment (with high-, medium-, and low-dose, resp.), and diabetic cardiomyopathy rats treated with insulin. Cardiac function was examined by echocardiography before and after treatment. The histopathology of the heart was examined with H&E staining. The mRNA levels of XBP1, ATF4, and TRAF2 were analyzed by RT-PCR, and the expression of glucose-regulated protein 78 (Grp78), enhancer-binding protein homologous protein (CHOP), caspase-3, and caspase-12 was detected by western blot.Results. LIRA strongly improved cardiac function from both echocardiographic and histopathologic analyses, but insulin only partly increased cardiac function by improving FS and LVPW values. LIRA treatment can significantly decrease the expression of XBP1, ATF4, and TRAF2 (P<0.01). LIRA also significantly downregulates the expression of Grp78, caspase-3 (P<0.01), CHOP, and caspase-12 (P<0.05).Conclusions. LIRA can protect against diabetic cardiomyopathy by inactivating the ER stress pathway. The improvement in cardiac function by LIRA is independent of glucose control.
Impacts of Snowy Weather Conditions on Expressway Traffic Flow Characteristics
Authors: Weng Jiancheng , Liu Lili , Rong Jian
Published: March 2013

Snowy weather will significantly degrade expressway operations, reduce service levels, and increase driving difficulty. Furthermore, the impact of snow varies in different types of roads, diverse cities, and snow densities due to different driving behavior. Traffic flow parameters are essential to decide what should be appropriate for weather-related traffic management and control strategies. This paper takes Beijing as a case study and analyzes traffic flow data collected by detectors in expressways. By comparing the performance of traffic flow under normal and snowy weather conditions, this paper quantitatively describes the impact of adverse weather on expressway volume and average speeds. Results indicate that average speeds on the Beijing expressway under heavy snow conditions decrease by 10–20 km/h when compared to those under normal weather conditions, the vehicle headway generally increases by 2–4 seconds, and the road capacity drops by about 33%. This paper also develops a specific expressway traffic parameter reduction model which proposes reduction coefficients of expressway volumes and speeds under various snow density conditions in Beijing. The conclusions paper provide effective foundational parameters for urban expressway controls and traffic management under snow conditions.
Tetrandrine Inhibits the Wnt/β-Catenin Signalling Pathway and Alleviates Osteoarthritis: An In Vitro and In Vivo Study
Authors: Zhou Xindie , Li Weijun , Jiang Lifeng , Bao Jiapeng , Tao Lijiang , Li Jin , Wu Lidong
Published: March 2013

There is currently no effective drug treatment for the early phase of osteoarthritis (OA), one of the most common senile diseases. The goal of this study was to investigate the protective effect of the tetrandrine (Tet) on OA, in vitro and in vivo. In an in vitro experiment, quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) was used to investigate changes in gene expression upon the addition of Tet in chondrocytes processed with IL-1β; changes in protein profiles were assessed by Western blotting. In vivo, to determine whether Tet has the protective effects on articular cartilage, a rabbit anterior cruciate ligament transaction model of OA was established. Expression of matrix metalloproteinase andβ-catenin genes increased significantly, while that of tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinase-1 decreased significantly in the OA group both in vivo and in chondrocytes. However, the changes of expression were reversed by Tet, and there was less cartilage degradation in vivo compared with the OA group, as assessed by histological and macroscopic observations. Thus, Tet may play a useful role in the treatment of OA through the Wnt/β-catenin signalling pathway and has potential for the treatment of OA.
Hydrogen Production Using Reduced-Iron Nanoparticles by Laser Ablation in Liquids
Authors: Okada Takehiro , Saiki Taku , Taniguchi Seiji , Ueda Tsuyoshi , Nakamura Kazuhiro , Nishikawa Yusuke , Iida Yukio
Published: March 2013

A recyclable energy cycle using a pulsed laser and base-metal nanoparticles is proposed. In this energy cycle, iron nanoparticles reduced from iron oxides by laser ablation in liquid are used for hydrogen generation. The laser energy can be stored in the base-metal nanoparticles as the difference between the chemical energies of iron oxide and iron. According to the results of an experiment on hydrogen production using the reduced iron nanoparticles, the reaction efficiency of the hydrogen generation at a temperature of 673 K was more than 94% for the ideal amount of generated hydrogen.
Esophageal Sarcoidosis: A Review of Cases and an Update
Authors: Abraham Albin , Hajar Rabab , Virdi Ravi , Singh Jaspreet , Mustacchia Paul
Published: March 2013

Sarcoidosis is a chronic disorder that can virtually affect any organ system in the body. Histologically, it is characterized by the presence of T lymphocytes, mononuclear phagocytes, and noncaseating granulomas. Most commonly affected are the intrathoracic structures, with 90% of the reported cases involving the lungs. Esophageal involvement in sarcoidosis is extremely rare. Dysphagia is the most common presentation in these patients and can be attributed to various mechanisms such as direct esophageal wall infiltration, extrinsic compression, cranial neuropathy, and brainstem involvement. A thorough online literature review revealed only 23 reported cases of esophageal involvement in sarcoidosis. This paper reviews these reported cases in detail along with newer diagnostic and treatment options, including direction of future therapy.
Detection ofMycobacterium tuberculosisby Using Loop-Mediated Isothermal Amplification Combined with a Lateral Flow Dipstick in Clinical Samples
Authors: Kaewphinit Thongchai , Arunrut Narong , Kiatpathomchai Wansika , Santiwatanakul Somchai , Jaratsing Pornpun , Chansiri Kosum
Published: March 2013

Tuberculosis (TB) is a communicable disease caused by the bacteriumMycobacterium tuberculosis(MTB) and is a persistent problem in the developing countries. Loop-mediated isothermal amplification (LAMP) allows DNA to be amplified rapidly at a constant temperature. Here, a LAMP method was combined with a chromatographic lateral-flow dipstick (LFD) to detect IS6110gene ofM. tuberculosisspecifically and rapidly. The reaction was optimized at 63°C for 60 min, and the amplified DNA hybridized to an FITC-labeled oligonucleotide probe for 5 min was detected at the LFD test line 5 min after application. Excluding the step of DNA extraction, the test results could be generated approximately within 1 h. In addition to the advantage of short assay time, this technique could avoid the contact of carcinogenic ethidium bromide due to the exclusion of the electrophoresis analysis step. Furthermore, the data indicated that LAMP-LFD could detectM. tuberculosisgenomic DNA as little as 5 pg. The technique showed a significant specificity since no cross-hybridization toM. intracellulare(MIC),M. fortuitum(MFT),M. avium(MAV),M. kansasii(MKS), andM. gordonae(MGD) genomic DNAs was observed. In the clinical unknown samples test, the sensitivity of LAMP-LFD was 98.92 % and the specificity was 100 % compared to those of the standard culture assay. Based on its sensitivity, specificity, rapidity, low cost, and convenience, LAMP-LFD could be applicable for use in both laboratories and epidemiological surveys of MTB.
Early Infant Exposure to Excess Multivitamin: A Risk Factor for Autism?
Authors: Zhou Shi-Sheng , Zhou Yi-Ming , Li Da , Ma Qiang
Published: March 2013

Autism, a neurodevelopmental disorder that affects boys more than girls, is often associated with altered levels of monoamines (serotonin and catecholamines), especially elevated serotonin levels. The monoamines act as both neurotransmitters and signaling molecules in the gastrointestinal and immune systems. The evidence related to monoamine metabolism may be summarized as follows: (i) monoamine neurotransmitters are enzymatically degraded/inactivated by three mechanisms: oxidative deamination, methylation, and sulfation. The latter two are limited by the supply of methyl groups and sulfate, respectively. (ii) A decrease in methylation- and sulfation-mediated monoamine inactivation can be compensated by an increase in the oxidative deamination catalyzed by monoamine oxidase, an X-linked enzyme exhibiting higher activity in females than in males. (iii) Vitamins can, on one hand, facilitate the synthesis of monoamine neurotransmitters and, on the other hand, inhibit their inactivation by competing for methylation and sulfation. Therefore, we postulate that excess multivitamin feeding in early infancy, which has become very popular over the past few decades, may be a potential risk factor for disturbed monoamine metabolism. In this paper, we will focus on the relationship between excess multivitamin exposure and the inactivation/degradation of monoamine neurotransmitters and its possible role in the development of autism.
Smartphone Homecare Monitoring of Hearts
Authors: Szu Harold , Hsu Charles , Moon Gyu , Landa Joseph , Nakajima Hiroshi , Hata Yutaka
Published: March 2013

Homecare monitoring blood pressures and heartbeats are commercially available using dedicated devices, for example, wrist watch, pulse oximetry. With the advent of Smartphone and compressive sensing technology, we wish to monitor precisely the electrical waveforms of heartbeats called the electrocardiography (ECG) for an aging global villager biomedical wellness homecare system. Our design separates into 3 innovative modules within the size-weight and power-cost bandwidth (Swap-CB) limitation. We develop each separately but in concert with one another: (i) Smart Electrode (adopting a low-power-mixed signal embedded with modern compressive sensing firmware and applying the nanotechnology to improve the electrodes’ contact impedance as well as novel transduction mechanism, between ECG and electronics, e.g., a pressure mattress coupling, or fiber-optics coupling); (ii) Learnable Database (utilizing adaptive wavelets transforms for systolic and diastolic P-QRS-T-U features extraction Aided Target Recognition and adopting Sequential Query Language for a relational database allowing distant monitoring and retrievable); (iii) Smartphone (inheriting a large touch screen interface display with powerful computation capability and assisting caretaker reporting system with GPS and ID and two-way interaction with patient panic button for programmable emergence reporting procedure). While (i) is novel, (ii) and (iii) are mature. Together, they can eventually provide a supplementary home screening system for the post- or the prediagnosis care at home with a built-in database searchable with the time, the place, and the degree of urgency happened, using in situ screening.
Characterisation of Hypertensive Patients with Improved Endothelial Function after Dark Chocolate Consumption
Authors: d'El-Rei Jenifer , Cunha Ana Rosa , Burlá Adriana , Burlá Marcelo , Oigman Wille , Neves Mario Fritsch , Virdis Agostino , Medeiros Fernanda
Published: March 2013

Recent findings indicate an inverse relationship between cardiovascular disease and consumption of flavonoids. We aimed to identify clinical and vascular parameters of treated hypertensive who present beneficial effects of dark chocolate for one-week period on vascular function. Twenty-one hypertensive subjects, aged 40–65 years, were included in a prospective study with measurement of blood pressure (BP), brachial flow-mediated dilatation (FMD), peripheral arterial tonometry, and central hemodynamic parameters. These tests were repeated after seven days of eating dark chocolate 75 g/day. Patients were divided according to the response in FMD: responders (n=12) and nonresponders (n=9). The responder group presented lower age (54 ± 7 versus 61 ± 6 years,P=0.037), Framingham risk score (FRS) (2.5 ± 1.8 versus 8.1 ± 5.1%,P=0.017), values of peripheral (55 ± 9 versus 63 ± 5 mmHg,P=0.041), and central pulse pressure (PP) (44 ± 10 versus 54 ± 6 mmHg,P=0.021). FMD response showed negative correlation with FRS (r=−0.60,P=0.014), baseline FMD (r=−0.54,P=0.011), baseline reactive hyperemia index (RHI;r=−0.56,P=0.008), and central PP (r=−0.43,P=0.05). However, after linear regression analysis, only FRS and baseline RHI were associated with FMD response. In conclusion, one-week dark chocolate intake significantly improved endothelial function and reduced BP in younger hypertensive with impaired endothelial function in spite of lower cardiovascular risk.
Report about Four Novel Mutations in the Prion Protein Gene
Authors: Schelzke Gabi , Stoeck Katharina , Eigenbrod Sabina , Grasbon-Frodl Eva , Raddatz Lena M. , Ponto Claudia , Kretzschmar Hans A. , Zerr Inga
Published: March 2013

Background/Aims: Since detection of the prion protein gene (PRNP) more than 30 mutations have been discovered. Some have only been found in single case reports without known intrafamilial accumulation or neuropathological proof so that the causal connection between mutation and disease could not be proved. Those patients often present atypical clinical phenotypes, and it is not unusual that they are classified as diseases other than Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease (CJD). Methods: Cases of suspected CJD have been reported to the national reference center for prion diseases. Clinical and diagnostic data were collected, and a classification of definite, possible or probable prion disease was made. Molecular analysis of PRNP was performed by capillary sequencing. Results: We have described 4 cases with atypical clinical and diagnostic findings and unknown mutations in PRNP so far. Conclusion: Three patients fulfilled the criteria of probable CJD, and 1 patient fulfilled the criteria of possible CJD but the clinical picture in none of the patients was typical CJD; hence, it remained questionable whether the mutations were causal of the disease.
How to Prepare and Deliver a Scientific Presentation
Authors: Alexandrov Andrei V. , Hennerici Michael G.
Published: March 2013

Background: A scientific presentation is a professional way to share your observation, introduce a hypothesis, demonstrate and interpret the results of a study, or summarize what is learned or to be studied on the subject. Presentation Methods: Commonly, presentations at major conferences include podium (oral, platform), poster or lecture, and if selected one should be prepared to PRESENT: Plan from the start (place integral parts of the presentation in logical sequence); Reduce the amount of text and visual aids to the bare minimum; Elucidate (clarify) methods; Summarize results and key messages; Effectively deliver; Note all shortcomings, and Transform your own and the current thinking of others. We provide tips on how to achieve this. Presentation Results: After disclosing conflicts, if applicable, start with a brief summary of what is known and why it is required to investigate the subject. State the research question or the purpose of the lecture. For original presentations follow a structure: Introduction, Methods, Results, Conclusions. Invest a sufficient amount of time or poster space in describing the study methods. Clearly organize and deliver the results or synopsis of relevant studies. Include absolute numbers and simple statistics before showing advanced analyses. Remember to present one point at a time. Stay focused. Discuss study limitations. In a lecture or a podium talk or when standing by your poster, always think clearly, have a logical plan, gain audience attention, make them interested in your subject, excite their own thinking about the problem, listen to questions and carefully weigh the evidence that would justify the punch-line. Conclusions: Rank scientific evidence in your presentation appropriately. What may seem obvious may turn erroneous or more complex. Rehearse your presentation before you deliver it at a conference. Challenge yourself to dry runs with your most critically thinking colleagues. When the time comes, ace it with a clear mind, precise execution and fund of knowledge.
Long-Term Survival of Ischemic Cerebrovascular Disease in the Acute Inflammatory Stroke Study, a Hospital-Based Cohort Described by TOAST and ASCO
Authors: Markaki Ioanna , Franzén Ida , Talani Caroline , Loizou Louiza , Kostulas Nikolaos
Published: March 2013

Background: Ischemic cerebrovascular disease (ICVD) comprises multiple etiological phenotypes that share common clinical characteristics. Etiological classification of patients with ICVD is of major clinical interest to achieve optimal medical treatment and predict prognosis. The TOAST classification system has been widely used to describe stroke etiology but provides restricted phenotypic homogeneity within groups. The ASCO classification system has introduced a new approach in phenotypic classification, and aims to describe clinical characteristics without merging concurrent comorbidities. Inflammatory processes have been suggested to mediate stroke etiology and pathology. The Acute Inflammatory Stroke Study (AISS), a hospital-based cohort, is here introduced and described by TOAST and ASCO classification systems. The aim of this first analysis of AISS was to investigate long-term mortality in relation to ischemic stroke subtypes, and clinical and biochemical markers. Methods: AISS consecutively follows patients on 6 occasions up to 1 year after stroke onset. Complete workup according to ASCO comprised CT or MRI of the head, ECG, duplex of the extracranial arteries or CT/MR angiography and ultrasound of the heart. Level 2 evidence was required in each domain to obtain a comparable system to TOAST (ASCO2). Clinical and biochemical characteristics and mortality rates were documented and compared by the two classification systems. Results: Of 142 patients consecutively evaluated and recruited in the study, a total of 101 ICVD patients (ischemic stroke, n = 84; transient ischemic attack, n = 17) were included in the final analysis. Agreement between ASCO2 and TOAST was very good. During the mean observation period of 28 months, 26 patients died. The 1- and 4-year mortality rates were 0 and 4% for large artery atherosclerosis (LAA); 23 and 36% for cardioembolism (CE); 0% for small artery occlusion (SAO); 63 and 100% for the subtype with unknown etiology due to incomplete workup (Unknown), and 12 and 29% for the cryptogenic subtype. As for the ASCO2 groups, the 1- and 4-year mortality rates were 0 and 6% in LAA, 25 and 36% in CE, 0% in SAO, 0 and 14% in LAA + CE, 0% in SAO + CE, 16 and 36% in the subgroup with undetermined etiology despite complete workup, and 56 and 100% in Unknown. Regression analysis showed that age, white blood cell count, fibrinogen and bilirubin, but not etiological subgroup, were independent predictors of mortality. Conclusion: Our findings indicate that clinical and biochemical markers may differentiate phenotypically homogeneous etiological subtypes and predict long-term mortality. Further studies with larger patient numbers are needed to investigate possible causative mechanisms.