bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
ClassiMap: A New Dimension Reduction Technique for Exploratory Data Analysis of Labeled Data
Authors: Lespinats Sylvain , Aupetit Michaël , Meyer-Baese Anke
Published: May 2015

Multidimensional scaling techniques are unsupervised Dimension Reduction (DR) techniques which use multidimensional data pairwise similarities to represent data into a plane enabling their visual exploratory analysis. Considering labeled data, the DR techniques face two objectives with potentially different priorities: one is to account for the data points' similarities, the other for the data classes' structures. Unsupervised DR techniques attempt to preserve original data similarities, but they do not consider their class label hence they can map originally separated classes as overlapping ones. Conversely, the state-of-the-art so-called supervised DR techniques naturally handle labeled data, but they do so in a predictive modeling framework where they attempt to separate the classes in order to improve a classification accuracy measure in the low-dimensional space, hence they can map as separated even originally overlapping classes. We propose ClassiMap, a DR technique which optimizes a new objective function enabling Exploratory Data Analysis (EDA) of labeled data. Mapping distortions known as tears and false neighborhoods cannot be avoided in general due to the reduction of the data dimension. ClassiMap intends primarily to preserve data similarities but tends to distribute preferentially unavoidable tears among the different-label data and unavoidable false neighbors among the same-label data. Standard quality measures to evaluate the quality of unsupervised mappings cannot tell about the preservation of within-class or between-class structures, while classification accuracy used to evaluate supervised mappings is only relevant to the framework of predictive modeling. We propose two measures better suited to the evaluation of DR of labeled data in an EDA framework. We use these two label-aware indices and four other standard unsupervised indices to compare ClassiMap to other state-of-the-art supervised and unsupervised DR techniques on synthetic and real datasets. ClassiMap appears to provide a better tradeoff between pairwise similarities and class structure preservation according to these new measures.
Low Power Pulse-Triggered Flip-Flop Based on Clock Triggering Edge Control Technique
Authors: Shen Jizhong , Geng Liang , Wu Xuexiang
Published: May 2015

Flip-flop is an important unit in digital integrated circuits, whose characteristics have a deep impact on the performance of the circuits. To reduce the power dissipation of flip-flops, clock triggering edge control technique is proposed, which is feasible to block one or two triggering edges of a clock cycle if they are redundant in dual-edge pulse-triggered flip-flops (DEPFFs). Based on this technique, redundant pulses can be suppressed when the input stays unchanged, and all the redundant triggerings are eliminated to reduce redundant transitions at the internal nodes of the flip-flop, so the power dissipation can be decreased. Then a novel DEPFF based on clock triggering edge control (DEPFF-CEC) technique is proposed. Based on the SMIC 65-nm technology, the post layout simulation results show that the proposed DEPFF-CEC gains an improvement of 8.03–39.83% in terms of power dissipation when the input switching activity is 10%, as compared with its counterparts. Thus, it is suitable for energy-efficient designs whose input data switching activity is low.
Critical escape velocity for a charged particle in Ernst spacetime
Authors: Huang Qihong , Chen Juhua , Wang Yongjiu
Published: May 2015

Motion of a charged particle in Ernst spacetime is discussed. We study the conditions that a charged particle, originally revolving around this black hole in the innermost stable circular orbit (ISCO), will escape to infinity after being kicked by another particle or photon. The motion of the kicked particle is chaotic. The critical escape energy and velocity of the charged particle are obtained in the present paper. Comparing to the Schwarzschild case, the kicked charged particle without the radial velocity needs more energy to escape in Ernst case for l > 0 and less energy to escape for l < 0.
LS-SVM Regression for Structural Damage Diagnosis Using the Iterated Improved Reduction System
Authors: Kourehli S. S.
Published: May 2015

A damage detection and estimation method is proposed for structural health monitoring using incomplete modal data and least squares support vector machine (LS-SVM). To accommodate the use of incomplete modal data, the iterated improved reduction system (IIRS) method has been used to condense the mass and stiffness matrices of the structure. The first two incomplete mode shapes and natural frequencies of a damaged structure are used as input data to the LS-SVM. The coupled simulated annealing (CSA) and standard simplex method using 10-fold cross-validation techniques are adopted to determine the optimal tuning parameters in the LS-SVM model. Three illustrative examples with and without noise in modal data are prepared to evaluate the performance of the proposed method. The results indicated that this method can be reliably used to identify the damages of structures with good accuracy.
Analysis of Flutter and Nonlinear Dynamics of a Composite Laminated Plate
Authors: Chen J. , Li Q. S.
Published: May 2015

This paper presents the analysis of flutter and nonlinear dynamics of an orthotropic composite laminated rectangular plate subjected to aerodynamic pressures and transverse excitation. The first-order linear piston theory is employed to model the air pressures. Based on Reddy’s third-order shear deformation plate theory and von Karman-type equation for the geometric nonlinearity, the nonlinear governing equations of motion are derived for the composite laminated rectangular plate by applying the Hamilton’s principle. The Galerkin method is utilized to discretize the partial differential governing equations to a set of nonlinear ordinary differential equations. The critical Mach number for occurrence of the flutter of the composite laminated plate is investigated by solving the eigenvalues problem. The relationship between the limit cycle oscillation and the critical Mach number is analyzed based on the nonlinear equations. The numerical simulation is conducted to study the influences of the transverse excitation on the nonlinear dynamics of the composited laminated plate. The numerical results, which include bifurcation diagram, phase plots and waveforms, demonstrate that there exist the bifurcation and chaotic motions of the composited laminated plate subjected to the aerodynamic pressures and the transverse excitation.
Computation of the a-invariant of ladder determinantal rings
Authors: Ghorpade Sudhir R. , Krattenthaler Christian
Published: May 2015

We solve the problem of effectively computing the a-invariant of ladder determinantal rings. In the case of a one-sided ladder, we provide a compact formula, while, for a large family of two-sided ladders, we provide an algorithmic solution.
A Balance Control Strategy for a Walking Biped Robot under Unknown Lateral External Force using a Genetic Algorithm
Authors: Kim Yeoun-Jae , Lee Joon-Yong , Lee Ju-Jang
Published: May 2015

In this paper, we propose a force-resisting balance control strategy for a walking biped robot subject to an unknown continuous external force. We assume that the biped robot has 12 degrees of freedom (DOFs) with position-controlled joint motors, and that the unknown continuous external force is applied to the pelvis of the biped robot in the single support phase (SSP) walking gait. The suggested balance control strategy has three phases. Phase 1 is to recognize the application of an unknown external force using only zero moment point (ZMP) sensors. Phase 2 is to control the joint motors according to a method that uses a genetic algorithm and the linear interpolation technique. Against an external continuous force, the robot retrieves the pre-calculated solutions and executes the desired torques with interpolation performed in real time. Phase 3 is to make the biped robot move from the SSP to the double support phase (DSP), rejecting external disturbances using the sliding mode controller. The strategy is verified by numerical simulations and experiments.
Dual characterizations of the sphere and the hyperbolic space in arbitrary dimension
Authors: Caballero Magdalena , Rubio Rafael M.
Published: May 2015

There are several well-known characterizations of the sphere as a regular surface in the Euclidean space. On the contrary, there are not so many characterizations of the hyperbolic space, the spacelike sphere in the Minkowski space. By means of a purely synthetic technique, we get a rigidity result for the sphere in 𝔼n+1 without any curvature conditions, nor completeness or compactness, as well as a dual result for the n-dimensional hyperbolic space in 𝕃n+1.
Magnetic Properties of Carbon-Coated Ni Nanoparticles Prepared by Solid-Phase Pyrolysis of Nickel-Phthalocyanine
Authors: Manukyan Aram , Mirzakhanyan Armen , Sajti Laszlo , Khachaturyan Ruben , Kaniukov Egor , Lobanovsky Leonid , Sharoyan Eduard
Published: May 2015

Carbon-coated nickel nanoparticles with a mean diameter of 40nm were synthesized via solid-phase pyrolysis of nickel-phthalocyanine. The composition structure and morphology of samples were investigated by scanning and transmission electron microscopy, X-ray diffraction, Raman spectroscopy and energy-dispersive X-ray microanalysis. Magnetic characteristics of samples were measured with a vibrational magnetometer and a magnetic resonance spectrometer. The main mass of Ni ferromagnetic nanoparticles have a single-domain and a vortex (pseudo-single domain) structures. We also revealed superparamagnetic Ni nanoparticles (several percent) and carbon paramagnetic centers caused by defects in the carbon matrix. We determined the main magnetic characteristics of Ni nanoparticles, their temperature and field dependences as well as the parameters of ferromagnetic resonance spectra.
In vivo Ca2+ buffering capacity and microvascular oxygen pressures following muscle contractions in diabetic rat skeletal muscles: fiber-type specific effects
Authors: Eshima Hiroaki , Poole David C. , Kano Yutaka
Published: May 2015

In Type 1 diabetes, skeletal muscle resting intracellular Ca2+ concentration ([Ca2+]i) homeostasis is impaired following muscle contractions. It is unclear to what degree this behavior is contingent upon fiber type and muscle oxygenation conditions. We tested the hypotheses that: 1) the rise in resting [Ca2+]i evident in diabetic rat slow-twitch (type I) muscle would be exacerbated in fast-twitch (type II) muscle following contraction; and 2) these elevated [Ca2+]i levels would relate to derangement of microvascular partial pressure of oxygen (PmvO2) rather than sarcoplasmic reticulum dysfunction per se. Adult male Wistar rats were divided randomly into diabetic (DIA: streptozotocin ip) and healthy (CONT) groups. Four weeks later extensor digitorum longus (EDL, predominately type II fibers) and soleus (SOL, predominately type I fibers) muscle contractions were elicited by continuous electrical stimulation (120 s, 100 Hz). Ca2+ imaging was achieved using fura 2-AM in vivo (i.e., circulation intact). DIA increased fatigability in EDL ( P < 0.05) but not SOL. In recovery, SOL [Ca2+]i either returned to its resting baseline within 150 s (CONT 1.00 ± 0.02 at 600 s) or was not elevated in recovery at all (DIA 1.03 ± 0.02 at 600 s, P > 0.05). In recovery, EDL CONT [Ca2+]i also decreased to values not different from baseline (1.06 ± 0.01, P > 0.05) at 600 s. In marked contrast, EDL DIA [Ca2+]i remained elevated for the entire recovery period (i.e., 1.23 ± 0.03 at 600 s, P < 0.05). The inability of [Ca2+]i to return to baseline in EDL DIA was not associated with any reduction of SR Ca2+-ATPase (SERCA) 1 or SERCA2 protein levels (both increased 30–40%, P < 0.05). However, PmvO2 recovery kinetics were markedly slowed in EDL such that mean PmvO2 was substantially depressed (CONT 27.9 ± 2.0 vs. DIA 18.4 ± 2.0 Torr, P < 0.05), and this behavior was associated with the elevated [Ca2+]i. In contrast, this was not the case for SOL ( P > 0.05) in that neither [Ca2+]i nor PmvO2 were deranged in recovery with DIA. In conclusion, recovery of [Ca2+]i homeostasis is impaired in diabetic rat fast-twitch but not slow-twitch muscle in concert with reduced PmvO2 pressures.
Sympathetic neural recruitment strategies: responses to severe chemoreflex and baroreflex stress
Authors: Badrov Mark B. , Usselman Charlotte W. , Shoemaker J. Kevin
Published: May 2015

This study tested the hypothesis that neural coding patterns exist within the autonomic nervous system. We investigated sympathetic axonal recruitment strategies in humans during chemoreflex- and baroreflex-mediated sympathoexcitation using a novel action potential (AP) analysis technique. Muscle sympathetic nerve activity (microneurography) was collected in 11 young individuals (6 females) during baseline and two subsequent protocols: 1) severe chemoreflex stimulation (maximal end-inspiratory apnea following rebreathe), and 2) severe baroreceptor unloading (−80 mmHg lower body negative pressure; LBNP). When compared with each respective baseline, apnea and LBNP increased AP frequency and mean AP content per sympathetic burst (all P < 0.01). When APs were binned according to peak-to-peak amplitude (i.e., into “clusters”), total clusters detected increased during both apnea (Δ7 ± 5; P = 0.0009) and LBNP (Δ11 ± 8; P = 0.0012) compared with baseline. This was concomitant to an increased number of active clusters per burst during apnea (Δ3 ± 1; P < 0.0001) and LBNP (Δ3 ± 3; P = 0.0076). At baseline and during apnea ( R2 = 0.98; P < 0.0001) and LBNP ( R2 = 0.95; P < 0.0001), a pattern emerged whereby AP cluster latency decreased as cluster size increased. Furthermore, the AP cluster latency profile was shifted downward during apnea (∼53 ms) and upward during LBNP (∼31 ms). The data indicate that variations in synaptic delays and latent subpopulations of larger axons exist as recruitment strategies for sympathetic outflow. The synaptic delay component appears to express reflex specificity, whereas latent subpopulation recruitment demonstrates sensitivity to stress severity.
One physiology does not fit all: a path from data variability to “physiogenetics”?
Authors: Schnermann Jurgen
Published: May 2015

Data variability is a costly complication of biomedical experimentation because the same experiment must be repeated a sufficient number of times so that the sample mean becomes a credible representation of the entire population. Since sampling is ideally done randomly in populations normalized for environmental and genetic backgrounds, data variability is viewed as a purely statistical issue reflecting the distribution in the population and captured as the standard deviation of the sampled data. The factors contributing to data variability are not analyzed by statistical methods; for want of a better explanation, data scatter is simply attributed to random noise and/or methodological limitations. In this commentary, evidence is discussed that documents an important role of interindividual biological diversity as a cause for data variability based on studies in which repeated sampling in the same individual permitted statistical comparisons between individuals in the same sample. Significant differences were found for proximal fluid reabsorption and plasma renin concentration between sample means of individuals of the same population. Furthermore, arterial blood pressure varied significantly between individual mice independently of strain and sex. Recognition of the extent of interindividual variability has important implications for data reproducibility, data collection, and data presentation in physiological research. Such nonrandom data variability may have different causes, but DNA modifications by genetic or epigenetic mechanisms could generate phenotype variants without being associated with disease symptoms. Exploration of the heritability of phenotypical diversity in physiology may be defined as “physiogenetics,” and it would thus be the physiological corollary of pharmacogenetics and pharmacogenomics.
Decoding tactile afferent activity to obtain an estimate of instantaneous force and torque applied to the fingerpad
Authors: Khamis Heba , Birznieks Ingvars , Redmond Stephen J.
Published: May 2015

Dexterous manipulation is not possible without sensory information about object properties and manipulative forces. Fundamental neuroscience has been unable to demonstrate how information about multiple stimulus parameters may be continuously extracted, concurrently, from a population of tactile afferents. This is the first study to demonstrate this, using spike trains recorded from tactile afferents innervating the monkey fingerpad. A multiple-regression model, requiring no a priori knowledge of stimulus-onset times or stimulus combination, was developed to obtain continuous estimates of instantaneous force and torque. The stimuli consisted of a normal-force ramp (to a plateau of 1.8, 2.2, or 2.5 N), on top of which −3.5, −2.0, 0, +2.0, or +3.5 mNm torque was applied about the normal to the skin surface. The model inputs were sliding windows of binned spike counts recorded from each afferent. Models were trained and tested by 15-fold cross-validation to estimate instantaneous normal force and torque over the entire stimulation period. With the use of the spike trains from 58 slow-adapting type I and 25 fast-adapting type I afferents, the instantaneous normal force and torque could be estimated with small error. This study demonstrated that instantaneous force and torque parameters could be reliably extracted from a small number of tactile afferent responses in a real-time fashion with stimulus combinations that the model had not been exposed to during training. Analysis of the model weights may reveal how interactions between stimulus parameters could be disentangled for complex population responses and could be used to test neurophysiologically relevant hypotheses about encoding mechanisms.
Confidence estimation as a stochastic process in a neurodynamical system of decision making
Authors: Wei Ziqiang , Wang Xiao-Jing
Published: May 2015

Evaluation of confidence about one's knowledge is key to the brain's ability to monitor cognition. To investigate the neural mechanism of confidence assessment, we examined a biologically realistic spiking network model and found that it reproduced salient behavioral observations and single-neuron activity data from a monkey experiment designed to study confidence about a decision under uncertainty. Interestingly, the model predicts that changes of mind can occur in a mnemonic delay when confidence is low; the probability of changes of mind increases (decreases) with task difficulty in correct (error) trials. Furthermore, a so-called “hard-easy effect” observed in humans naturally emerges, i.e., behavior shows underconfidence (underestimation of correct rate) for easy or moderately difficult tasks and overconfidence (overestimation of correct rate) for very difficult tasks. Importantly, in the model, confidence is computed using a simple neural signal in individual trials, without explicit representation of probability functions. Therefore, even a concept of metacognition can be explained by sampling a stochastic neural activity pattern.
Self-regulation of adult thalamocortical neurons
Authors: Kasten Michael R. , Anderson Matthew P.
Published: May 2015

The thalamus acts as a conduit for sensory and other information traveling to the cortex. In response to continuous sensory stimulation in vivo, the firing rate of thalamocortical neurons initially increases, but then within a minute firing rate decreases and T-type Ca2+ channel-dependent action potential burst firing emerges. While neuromodulatory systems could play a role in this inhibitory response, we instead report a novel and cell-autonomous inhibitory mechanism intrinsic to the thalamic relay neuron. Direct intracellular stimulation of thalamocortical neuron firing initially triggered a continuous and high rate of action potential discharge, but within a minute membrane potential ( Vm) was hyperpolarized and firing rate to the same stimulus was decreased. This self-inhibition was observed across a wide variety of thalamic nuclei, and in a subset firing mode switched from tonic to bursting. The self-inhibition resisted blockers of intracellular Ca2+ signaling, Na+-K+-ATPases, and G protein-regulated inward rectifier (GIRK) channels as implicated in other neuron subtypes, but instead was in part inhibited by an ATP-sensitive K+ channel blocker. The results identify a new homeostatic mechanism within the thalamus capable of gating excitatory signals at the single-cell level.
On the MIMO Capacity for Distributed System under Composite Rayleigh/Rician Fading and Shadowing
Authors: González-Aurioles Santiago , Padilla J. L. , Padilla P. , Valenzuela-Valdés Juan F. , Gonzalez-Macias Juan C.
Published: May 2015

Wireless channels are commonly affected by short-term fading and long-term fading (shadowing). The shadowing effects must be taken into account also when mobility is present in the wireless scenario. Using a composite fading model, the total channel capacity can be studied for a scenario with short-term Rayleigh fading along with shadowing. This work provides quantitative results for these kinds of scenarios with Rayleigh fading and shadowing, considering also multiple-input and multiple-output systems, which have not been previously reported. In addition, the channel capacity has been studied in depth in its relation with the shadowing level, signal to noise ratio, and the number of elements in the multiple-input and multiple-output system. Moreover, the channel performance with shadowing has been compared to the one without it. Furthermore, Rician model with shadowing is studied and its results are reported. In addition, correlated and experimental results are provided. It is identified that the distributed MIMO systems can benefit from shadowing in Rician channels. This advantage has not been reported previously. This type of fading is proposed for massive MIMO by others and our results open the door to emulate massive MIMO on a reverberation chamber.
Immunodeficiency in a Child with Rapadilino Syndrome: A Case Report and Review of the Literature
Authors: Vollebregt M. M. G. , Malfroot A. , De Raedemaecker M. , van der Burg M. , van der Werff ten Bosch J. E.
Published: May 2015

Rapadilino syndrome is a genetic disease characterized by a characteristic clinical tableau. It is caused by mutations in RECQL4 gene. Immunodeficiency is not described as a classical feature of the disease. We present a 2-year-old girl with Rapadilino syndrome with important lymphadenopathies and pneumonia due to disseminatedMycobacterium lentiflavuminfection. An immunological work-up showed several unexpected abnormalities. Repeated blood samples showed severe lymphopenia. Immunophenotyping showed low T, B, and NK cells. No Treg cells were seen. T cell responses to stimulations were insufficient. The IL12/IL23 interferon gamma pathway was normal. Gamma globulin levels and vaccination responses were low. With this report, we aim to stress the importance of screening immunodeficiency in patients with RECQL4 mutations for immunodeficiency and the need to further research into its physiopathology.
The Impact of Endometriosis across the Lifespan of Women: Foreseeable Research and Therapeutic Prospects
Authors: Hughes C. L. , Foster W. G. , Agarwal S. K.
Published: May 2015

In addition to estrogen dependence, endometriosis is characterized by chronic pelvic inflammation. The impact of the chronic pelvic inflammatory state on other organ systems and women’s health is unclear. Endometriosis associated chronic inflammation and potential adverse health effects across the lifespan render it imperative for renewed research vigor into the identification of novel biomarkers of disease and therapeutic options. Herein we propose a number of opportunities for research and development of new therapeutics to address the unmet needs in the treatment of endometriosisper seand its ancillary risks for other diseases in women across the lifespan.
Vinegar Consumption Increases Insulin-Stimulated Glucose Uptake by the Forearm Muscle in Humans with Type 2 Diabetes
Authors: Mitrou Panayota , Petsiou Eleni , Papakonstantinou Emilia , Maratou Eirini , Lambadiari Vaia , Dimitriadis Panayiotis , Spanoudi Filio , Raptis Sotirios A. , Dimitriadis George
Published: May 2015

Background and Aims. Vinegar has been shown to have a glucose-lowering effect in patients with glucose abnormalities. However, the mechanisms of this effect are still obscure. The aim of this randomised, crossover study was to investigate the effect of vinegar on glucose metabolism in muscle which is the most important tissue for insulin-stimulated glucose disposal.Materials and Methods. Eleven subjects with DM2 consumed vinegar or placebo (at random order on two separate days, a week apart), before a mixed meal. Plasma glucose, insulin, triglycerides, nonesterified fatty acids (NEFA), and glycerol were measured preprandially and at 30–60 min for 300 min postprandially from the radial artery and from a forearm vein. Muscle blood flow was measured with strain-gauge plethysmography. Glucose uptake was calculated as the arteriovenous difference of glucose multiplied by blood flow.Results. Vinegar compared to placebo (1) increased forearm glucose uptake(p=0.0357), (2) decreased plasma glucose (p=0.0279), insulin(p=0.0457), and triglycerides(p=0.0439), and (3) did not change NEFA and glycerol.Conclusions. In DM2 vinegar reduces postprandial hyperglycaemia, hyperinsulinaemia, and hypertriglyceridaemia without affecting lipolysis. Vinegar’s effect on carbohydrate metabolism may be partly accounted for by an increase in glucose uptake, demonstrating an improvement in insulin action in skeletal muscle. This trial is registered with Clinicaltrials.govNCT02309424.
Systemic Lupus Erythematosus with and without Anti‐dsDNA Antibodies: Analysis from a Large Monocentric Cohort
Authors: Fabrizio Conti , Fulvia Ceccarelli , Carlo Perricone , Laura Massaro , Elisa Marocchi , Francesca Miranda , Francesca Romana Spinelli , Simona Truglia , Cristiano Alessandri , Guido Valesini
Published: May 2015

Objectives. The anti‐dsDNA antibodies are a marker for Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE) and 70–98% of patients test positive. We evaluated the demographic, clinical, laboratory, and therapeutical features of a monocentric SLE cohort according to the anti‐dsDNA status. Methods. We identified three groups: anti‐dsDNA + (persistent positivity); anti‐dsDNA ± (initial positivity and subsequent negativity during disease course); anti‐dsDNA − (persistent negativity). Disease activity was assessed by the European Consensus Lupus Activity Measurement (ECLAM). Results. We evaluated 393 patients (anti‐dsDNA +: 62.3%; anti‐dsDNA ±: 13.3%; anti‐dsDNA −: 24.4%). The renal involvement was significantly more frequent in anti‐dsDNA + (30.2%), compared with anti‐dsDNA ± and anti‐dsDNA − (21.1% and 18.7%, resp.; P = 0.001). Serositis resulted significantly more frequent in anti‐dsDNA − (82.3%) compared to anti‐dsDNA + and anti‐dsDNA ± (20.8% and 13.4%, resp.; P < 0.0001). The reduction of C4 serum levels was identified significantly more frequently in anti‐dsDNA + and anti‐dsDNA ± (40.0% and 44.2%, resp.) compared with anti‐dsDNA − (21.8%, P = 0.005). We did not identify significant differences in the mean ECLAM values before and after modification of anti‐dsDNA status (P = 0.7). Conclusion. Anti‐dsDNA status influences the clinical and immunological features of SLE patients. Nonetheless, it does not appear to affect disease activity.
Synthesis of Copper Nanoparticles Using Mixture of Allylamine and Polyallylamine
Authors: Sierra-Ávila Rubén , Pérez-Alvarez Marissa , Cadenas-Pliego Gregorio , Comparán Padilla Víctor , Ávila-Orta Carlos , Pérez Camacho Odilia , Jiménez-Regalado Enrique , Hernández-Hernández Ernesto , Jiménez-Barrera Rosa Martha
Published: May 2015

Copper nanoparticles (Cu‐NPs) with sizes lower than 31 nm were prepared by wet chemical reduction using copper sulfate solution, hydrazine, and mixture of allylamine (AAm) and polyallylamine (PAAm) as stabilizing agents. The use of AAm/PAAm mixture leads to the formation of Cu and CuO nanoparticles. The resulting nanostructures were characterized by XRD, TGA, and TEM. The average particle diameters were determined by the Debye‐Scherrer equation. Analysis by TGA, TEM, GS‐MS, and 1HNMR reveals that synthesized NPs with AAm presented a coating with similar characteristics to NPs with PAAm, suggesting that AAm underwent polymerization during the synthesis. The synthesis of NPs using AAm could be a good alternative to reduce production costs.
Nitric Oxide Bioavailability in Obstructive Sleep Apnea: Interplay of Asymmetric Dimethylarginine and Free Radicals
Authors: Badran Mohammad , Golbidi Saeid , Ayas Najib , Laher Ismail
Published: May 2015

Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) occurs in 2% of middle-aged women and 4% of middle-aged men and is considered an independent risk factor for cerebrovascular and cardiovascular diseases. Nitric oxide (NO) is an important endothelium derived vasodilating substance that plays a critical role in maintaining vascular homeostasis. Low levels of NO are associated with impaired endothelial function. Asymmetric dimethylarginine (ADMA), an analogue of L-arginine, is a naturally occurring product of metabolism found in the human circulation. Elevated levels of ADMA inhibit NO synthesis while oxidative stress decreases its bioavailability, so impairing endothelial function and promoting atherosclerosis. Several clinical trials report increased oxidative stress and ADMA levels in patients with OSA. This review discusses the role of oxidative stress and increased ADMA levels in cardiovascular disease resulting from OSA.
Irritable Bowel Syndrome: Yoga as Remedial Therapy
Authors: Kavuri Vijaya , Raghuram Nagarathna , Malamud Ariel , Selvan Senthamil R.
Published: May 2015

Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a group of symptoms manifesting as a functional gastrointestinal (GI) disorder in which patients experience abdominal pain, discomfort, and bloating that is often relieved with defecation. IBS is often associated with a host of secondary comorbidities such as anxiety, depression, headaches, and fatigue. In this review, we examined the basic principles ofPancha Kosha(five sheaths of human existence) concept from an Indian scriptureTaittiriya Upanishadand the pathophysiology of a disease from the Yoga approach,Yoga Vasistha’s Adhi(originated from mind) andVyadhi(ailment/disease) concept. An analogy between the age old, the most profound concept ofAdhi-Vyadhi, and modern scientific stress-induced dysregulation of brain-gut axis, as it relates to IBS that could pave way for impacting IBS, is emphasized. Based on these perspectives, a plausible Yoga module as a remedial therapy is provided to better manage the primary and secondary symptoms of IBS.
Physicochemical Properties of Calcium Phosphate Based Coating on Gutta-Percha Root Canal Filling
Authors: Al-Haddad Afaf , Kutty Muralithran G. , Abu Kasim Noor Hayaty , Che Ab Aziz Zeti Adura
Published: May 2015

Dental Gutta-percha (GP) is a polymer based standard root canal filling material that has been widely used in dentistry. However, it has an inadequate sealing ability and adhesion to root dentin. The aim of this study is to coat GP with a bioactive material to enhance its sealing ability and adhesion to the root sealer and subsequently to the root dentin. The choice of coating method is limited by the nature of GP as it requires a technique that is not governed by high temperatures or uses organic solvents. In this study, biomimetic coating technique using 1.5 Tas-simulated body fluids (SBF) was employed to coat the treated GP cones. The coated samples were characterized using Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), X-ray Diffraction (XRD), and field emission scanning electron microscope (FESEM). The presence of hydroxyl, carbonate, and phosphate groups was detected by FTIR while the formation of hydroxyapatite (HA)/calcium phosphate was confirmed with XRD. FESEM revealed uniform, thin, and crystalline HA calcium phosphate coating. The adhesion of the coating to the GP substrate was assessed with microscratch technique. It was viable with cohesive failure mode. In conclusion, Tas-SBF is able to coat pretreated GP cones with a crystalline apatitic calcium phosphate layer.
Functional and Structural Brain Plasticity Enhanced by Motor and Cognitive Rehabilitation in Multiple Sclerosis
Authors: Prosperini Luca , Piattella Maria Cristina , Giannì Costanza , Pantano Patrizia
Published: May 2015

Rehabilitation is recognized to be important in ameliorating motor and cognitive functions, reducing disease burden, and improving quality of life in patients with multiple sclerosis (MS). In this systematic review, we summarize the existing evidences that motor and cognitive rehabilitation may enhance functional and structural brain plasticity in patients with MS, as assessed by means of the most advanced neuroimaging techniques, including diffusion tensor imaging and task-related and resting-state functional magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). In most cases, the rehabilitation program was based on computer-assisted/video game exercises performed in either an outpatient or home setting. Despite their heterogeneity, all the included studies describe changes in white matter microarchitecture, in task-related activation, and/or in functional connectivity following both task-oriented and selective training. When explored, relevant correlation between improved function and MRI-detected brain changes was often found, supporting the hypothesis that training-induced brain plasticity is specifically linked to the trained domain. Small sample sizes, lack of randomization and/or an active control group, as well as missed relationship between MRI-detected changes and clinical performance, are the major drawbacks of the selected studies. Knowledge gaps in this field of research are also discussed to provide a framework for future investigations.
Comparison of Three Methods Used in the Diagnosis of Extraesophageal Reflux in Children with Chronic Otitis Media with Effusion
Authors: Formánek Martin , Komínek Pavel , Matoušek Petr , Tomanova Radoslava , Urban Ondřej , Zeleník Karol
Published: May 2015

Objectives. Detection of extraesophageal reflux (EER) in children with chronic otitis media with effusion (OME) using three different diagnostic methods.Methods. Children between 1 and 7 years with OME who underwent adenoidectomy and myringotomy with insertion of a ventilation tube were included in this prospective study. EER was detected using three methods: oropharyngeal pH was monitored for 24 hours using the Restech system; detection of pepsin in middle ear fluid obtained during myringotomy was done using Peptest, and detection of pepsin in an adenoid specimen was done immunohistochemically.Results. Altogether 21 children were included in the study. Pathological oropharyngeal pH was confirmed in 13/21 (61.9%) children. Pepsin in the middle ear fluid was present in 5/21 (23.8%) children; these 5 patients were diagnosed with the most severe EER established through monitoring of oropharyngeal pH. No specimen of adenoids tested was positive for pepsin upon immunohistochemical examination.Conclusions. Diagnosis of EER in patients with OME using Restech is sensitive but less specific when compared to the detection of pepsin in middle ear fluid using Peptest. Pepsin in the middle ear was consistently present in patients with RYAN score above 200, and these patients in particular could potentially profit from antireflux therapy.
Probable Pulmonary Blastomycosis in a Wild Coyote (Canis latrans)
Authors: Rodríguez-Tovar Luis E. , Nevárez-Garza Alicia M. , Barajas-Juárez Ricardo Vladimir , Zarate-Ramos Juan J. , Ledezma-Torres Rogelio A. , Trejo-Chávez Armando
Published: May 2015

A female coyote (Canis latrans) was fatally injured by a vehicle on a road in San Luis Potosi, Mexico. Because of deteriorating clinical signs, the animal was euthanized. Postmortem examination of the lungs showed numerous small multifocal white nodules (0.5–1 cm diameter) disseminated throughout. Histopathologic examination revealed multifocal coalescing granulomas with abundant macrophages, numerous neutrophils, fibroblasts, plasma cells, and lymphocytes. Abundant intracellular and extracellular thick-walled, refractile, spherical yeasts (10–15 μm) were observed within the granulomas. The yeasts were intensely PAS-positive, with granular protoplasm. Broad-based single budding yeasts were occasionally present. Based on the microscopic findings of the pulmonary lesions and the morphological features of the organism, a diagnosis of chronic pyogranulomatous pneumonia caused byBlastomyces dermatitidiswas made. To our knowledge, the case described herein is the first report of pulmonary blastomycosis in a wild coyote.
Association of a Large Panel of Cytokine Gene Polymorphisms with Complications and Comorbidities in Type 2 Diabetes Patients
Authors: Rodrigues K. F. , Pietrani N. T. , Sandrim V. C. , Vieira C. M. A. F. , Fernandes A. P. , Bosco A. A. , Gomes K. B.
Published: May 2015

Aims. The polymorphisms of pro- and anti-inflammatory cytokines may be involved in type 2 diabetes (T2D) pathogenesis and its complications.Methods. We investigated in 102 T2D patients the association of the cytokine polymorphisms in the TNF-α, IL-10, IL-6, TGF-β1, and IFN-γgenes with the T2D microvascular complications and comorbidities (hypertension, dyslipidemia, and obesity). Cytokine genotypes were determined by PCR using Cytokine Genotyping Tray kit.Results.Diabetic retinopathy was associated with GG genotype and G allele in TGF-β1 codon 25C/G polymorphism (p=0.004andp=0.018) and the nephropathy was associated the lower frequency of GG genotype in IL-10 -1082G/A polymorphism (p=0.049). Hypertension was associated with the CC genotype and C allele for IL-10 -592C/A polymorphism (p=0.013andp=0.009) and higher frequencies of T (p=0.047) and C (p=0.033) alleles of the TGF-β1 codon 10T/C and IL-10 -819T/C polymorphisms, respectively. The TGF-β1 codon 10T/C polymorphism was associated with the BMI groups (p=0.026): the CC genotype was more frequent in the group with BMI < 25 Kg/m2, while the TC genotype was more frequent in the group with BMI = 30 Kg/m2.Conclusions. Our findings suggest that TGF-β1 and IL-10 polymorphisms are involved in complications and comorbidities in T2D patients.
Synthesis, Characterization, and Application of Poly(N,N′-dibromo-N-ethylnaphthyl-2,7-disulfonamide) as an Efficient Reagent for the Synthesis of 2-Arylbenzimidazole and 2-Aryl-1-arylmethyl-1H-1,3-benzimidazole Derivatives
Authors: Saleh Vida , Khazaei Ardeshir , Abizadeh Hamid , Saednia Shahnaz
Published: May 2015

The condensation of O-phenylenediamine (OPD) with aryl aldehydes is carried out in acetonitrile using poly(N,N′-dibromo-N-ethylnaphthyl-2,7-disulfonamide) (PBNS) as a novel and heterogeneous catalyst. PBNS has some potential advantages which include ease of separation from the reaction mixture by simple filtration, easy preparation, recoverablility, convenience, and stability under normal condition and also is not dangerous as molecular bromine.
Collapsed Shape of Shallow Unlined Tunnels Based on Functional Catastrophe Theory
Authors: Zhang Chengping , Han Kaihang
Published: May 2015

This paper investigates the collapse mechanisms and possible collapsing block shapes of shallow unlined tunnels under conditions of plane strain. The analysis is performed following the framework from a branch of catastrophe theory, functional catastrophe theory. First, the basic principles of functional catastrophe theory are introduced. Then, an analytical solution for the shape curve of the collapsing block of a shallow unlined tunnel is derived using functional catastrophe theory based on the nonlinear Hoek-Brown failure criterion. The effects of the rock mass parameters of the proposed method on the shape and weight of the collapsing block are examined. Moreover, a critical cover depth expression to classify deep and shallow tunnels is proposed. The analytical results are consistent with those obtained by numerical simulation using the particle flow code, demonstrating the validity of the proposed analytical method. The obtained formulas can be used to predict the height and width of the collapsing block of a shallow unlined tunnel and to provide a direct estimate of the overburden on the tunnel lining. The obtained formulas can be easily used by tunnel engineers and researchers due to their simplicity.
Delayed Intraperitoneal Catheter Erosion into the Small Bowel
Authors: Kerwin Lauren , Calhoun Sean
Published: May 2015

Intraperitoneal chemotherapy can be provided in cases of metastatic ovarian carcinoma. Although most complications arise during or immediately after insertion of the catheter, there are complications that can arise several months later or during therapy administration. One of these delayed complications is catheter erosion into adjacent bowel.
Paricalcitol Inhibits Aldosterone-Induced Proinflammatory Factors by Modulating Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor Pathway in Cultured Tubular Epithelial Cells
Authors: Morgado-Pascual Jose L. , Rayego-Mateos Sandra , Valdivielso Jose M. , Ortiz Alberto , Egido Jesus , Ruiz-Ortega Marta
Published: May 2015

Chronic kidney disease is characterized by Vitamin D deficiency and activation of the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system. Increasing data show that vitamin D receptor agonists (VDRAs) exert beneficial effects in renal disease and possess anti-inflammatory properties, but the underlying mechanism remains unknown. Emerging evidence suggests that “a disintegrin and metalloproteinase” (ADAM)/epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) signalling axis contributes to renal damage. Aldosterone induces EGFR transactivation regulating several processes including cell proliferation and fibrosis. However, data on tubular epithelial cells is scarce. We have found that, in cultured tubular epithelial cells, aldosterone induced EGFR transactivation via TGF-α/ADAM17. Blockade of the TGF-α/ADAM17/EGFR pathway inhibited aldosterone-induced proinflammatory gene upregulation. Moreover, among the potential downstream mechanisms, we found that TGF-α/ADAM17/EGFR inhibition blocked ERK and STAT-1 activation in response to aldosterone. Next, we investigated the involvement of TGF-α/ADAM17/EGFR axis in VDRA anti-inflammatory effects. Preincubation with the VDRA paricalcitol inhibited aldosterone-induced EGFR transactivation, TGF-α/ADAM-17 gene upregulation, and downstream mechanisms, including proinflammatory factors overexpression. In conclusion, our data suggest that the anti-inflammatory actions of paricalcitol in tubular cells could depend on the inhibition of TGF-α/ADAM17/EGFR pathway in response to aldosterone, showing an important mechanism of VDRAs action.
MicroRNAs as Regulator of Signaling Networks in Metastatic Colon Cancer
Authors: Wang Jian , Du Yong , Liu Xiaoming , Cho William C. , Yang Yinxue
Published: May 2015

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are a class of small, noncoding RNA molecules capable of regulating gene expression translationally and/or transcriptionally. A large number of evidence have demonstrated that miRNAs have a functional role in both physiological and pathological processes by regulating the expression of their target genes. Recently, the functionalities of miRNAs in the initiation, progression, angiogenesis, metastasis, and chemoresistance of tumors have gained increasing attentions. Particularly, the alteration of miRNA profiles has been correlated with the transformation and metastasis of various cancers, including colon cancer. This paper reports the latest findings on miRNAs involved in different signaling networks leading to colon cancer metastasis, mainly focusing on miRNA profiling and their roles in PTEN/PI3K, EGFR, TGFβ, and p53 signaling pathways of metastatic colon cancer. The potential of miRNAs used as biomarkers in the diagnosis, prognosis, and therapeutic targets in colon cancer is also discussed.
The Effect of Cyclooxygenase Inhibition on Tendon‐Bone Healing in an In Vitro Coculture Model
Authors: Schwarting Tim , Pretzsch Sebastian , Debus Florian , Ruchholtz Steffen , Lechler Philipp
Published: May 2015

The effects of cyclooxygenase (COX) inhibition following the reconstruction of the anterior cruciate ligament remain unclear. We examined the effects of selective COX‐2 and nonselective COX inhibition on bone‐tendon integration in an in vitro model. We measured the dose‐dependent effects of ibuprofen and parecoxib on the viability of lipopolysaccharide‐ (LPS‐) stimulated and unstimulated mouse MC3T3‐E1 and 3T3 cells, the influence on gene expression at the osteoblast, interface, and fibroblast regions measured by quantitative PCR, and cellular outgrowth assessed on histological sections. Ibuprofen led to a dose‐dependent suppression of MC3T3 cell viability, while parecoxib reduced the viability of 3T3 cultures. Exposure to ibuprofen significantly suppressed expression of Alpl (P < 0.01), Bglap (P < 0.001), and Runx2 (P < 0.01), and although parecoxib reduced expression of Alpl (P < 0.001), Fmod (P < 0.001), and Runx2 (P < 0.01), the expression of Bglap was increased (P < 0.01). Microscopic analysis showed a reduction in cellular outgrowth in LPS‐stimulated cultures following exposure to ibuprofen and parecoxib. Nonselective COX inhibition and the specific inhibition of COX‐2 led to region‐specific reductions in markers of calcification and cell viability. We suggest further in vitro and in vivo studies examining the biologic and biomechanical effects of selective and nonselective COX inhibition.
Corrosion Performance of Fe-Cr-Ni Alloys in Artificial Saliva and Mouthwash Solution
Authors: Porcayo-Calderon J. , Casales-Diaz M. , Salinas-Bravo V. M. , Martinez-Gomez L.
Published: May 2015

Several austenitic stainless steels suitable for high temperature applications because of their high corrosion resistance and excellent mechanical properties were investigated as biomaterials for dental use. The steels were evaluated by electrochemical techniques such as potentiodynamic polarization curves, cyclic polarization curves, measurements of open circuit potential, and linear polarization resistance. The performance of steels was evaluated in two types of environments: artificial saliva and mouthwash solution at 37°C for 48 hours. In order to compare the behavior of steels, titanium a material commonly used in dental applications was also tested in the same conditions. Results show that tested steels have characteristics that may make them attractive as biomaterials for dental applications. Contents of Cr, Ni, and other minor alloying elements (Mo, Ti, and Nb) determine the performance of stainless steels. In artificial saliva steels show a corrosion rate of the same order of magnitude as titanium and in mouthwash have greater corrosion resistance than titanium.
Autism Spectrum Disorder and Amplified Pain
Authors: Clarke Ciaran
Published: May 2015

Among the core features of ASD, altered sensitivities in all modalities have been accorded increasing importance. Heightened sensitivity to pain and unusual expressions of and reaction to pain have not hitherto been widely recognised as a presenting feature of ASD in general paediatrics. Failure to recognise ASD as a common cause of pain can lead to late diagnosis, inappropriate treatment, distress, and further disability. Two cases are presented which illustrate the late presentation of Autism Spectrum Disorder (Asperger’s Syndrome subtype) with chronic unusual pain.Conclusion. Pain in autism can be atypical in its experience and expression and for this reason may go unrecognised by physicians treating chronic pain disorders.