bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Determination of Current Efficiency of Anodic Film Formation in the Molten Melt by ICP-AES
Authors: Han Seong Ho , Kim Hyoung Chan
Published: June 2013

The results of the current efficiency measurements using the ICP-AES technique are described in this paper. The specimen, of known surface area, was anodized in the anodizing cell containing a known melt volume. After anodizing, trace amounts of any aluminum ions in the melt were analyzed by the ICP-AES technique. The current efficiency values of film formation, under the conditions investigated, approached closely to 100 %. In order to confirm this observation and to improve the precision of the measurement, 30 specimens were anodized individually at a constant current density of 10 Am-2 in the same melt at 418 K. It is apparent that the measured aluminum concentration in the melt is approximately zero. More precisely, the concentration is less than the detection limit of the ICP-AES technique (≤ 70 ppb).
Evaluation of Degradation of High Performance Organic Coatings under Outdoor Salt Spray Test
Authors: Ito Daisuke , Akira Yoshikazu , Miyata Yoshikaza , Yokoyama Takashi , Okazaki Shinji
Published: June 2013

A high performance organic coating is used for the corrosion protection of large steel constructions. Since the degradation of the coating takes long time, the degradation evaluation is difficult. Previously, the degradation of a coating was evaluated by electrochemical impedance method. However, these subjects of research were a coating with thin film thickness. Therefore, the evaluation of the high performance or the thick thickness coating is insufficient. The authors reported on the evaluating of the growth of the blistering of the coating. In this research, the degradation of the coating before blisters occur was evaluated as the penetration by water and chloride ion. The acceleration of coating degradation could use an outdoor salt spray test.
Sodium Nitrite-based Corrosion Inhibitor for Reinforcing Steel in Simulated Polluted Concrete Pore Solutions
Authors: Wang Xiao-Ping , Du Rong-Gui , Zhu Yan-Feng , Guo Ya , Chen Wen , Yang Zai-You , Dong Shi-Gang , Lin Chang-Jian
Published: June 2013

Corrosion behavior of reinforcing steel in the simulated polluted concrete pore (SPCP) solutions and the inhibition effect of NaNO2 and D-sodium gluconate on the steel corrosion were studied by polarization curve measurements and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS). The results indicated that the compound inhibitor contained 5 g L-1 NaNO2 and 0.01 M D-sodium gluconate could produce a strong inhibition effect for the steel in the solution with pH 11.00 and 3.5% NaCl, and its inhibition efficiency reached about 99.0%. The compound inhibitor mainly acted as an anodic corrosion inhibitor, and had an obvious synergistic effect on the corrosion inhibition of reinforcing steel.
Characterization of a New Polypropylene+Graphite+Zinc Ternary Composite
Authors: Agrisuelas Jeronimo , García-Jareño José , Piedras Manuel , Sanz Concha , Vicente Francisco
Published: June 2013

A new ternary composite prepared from graphite-powder (40% in weight) and zinc-powder (10% in weight) randomly dispersed into a polypropylene matrix (50% in weight) was characterized by means of electrical and electrochemical procedures. This composite electrode shows promising electrochemical properties like zinc metal since it presents a high electrical conductivity. Moreover, their low density and plastic performance makes of this material a suitable for substitute occasionally to the zinc metal in certain technological uses
An Evaluation of the Corrosion Behavior of Orthodontic Ni-Ti Archwires as a Function of Residence Time in the Oral Cavity
Authors: Britto Káthia M.F. , Macedo Daniel Araújo de , Nascimento Rubens M. , Martinelli Antonio Eduardo , Júnior Hélio S.
Published: June 2013

The objective of the present study was to evaluate the effect of the residence time in the oral cavity on the electrochemical and microstructural properties of nickel-titanium superelastic and thermoelastic archwires aiming at establishing optimum treatment parameters regarding materials selection and maintenance of orthodontic apparatus. The corrosion behaviour of commercial archwires of different diameters was studied after periods of use from 1 to 3 months in the oral cavity of patients submitted to orthodontic treatment. Electrochemical measurements and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) were performed. The results revealed that the stiffness of superelastic archwires increased upon use, making it unnecessary to replace archwires in the early stages of treatment with the objective of adapting the diameter of the wire. Electrochemical tests suggested extremely high corrosion resistance of the nickel-titanium alloy even in severe acid environment. SEM images revealed limited pit formation concentrated in the archwire-bracket contacts.
On the Structure of the Helmholtz Layer and its Implications on Electrode Kinetics
Authors: Lewerenz Hans Joachim
Published: June 2013

Concepts and selected experiments on the structure of the Helmholtz double layer at the metal- and semiconductor - electrolyte phase boundary are reviewed. The widely used microcapacitor approach of the double layer and its limitations are assessed. Observations on the influence of the electrode potential on the energetic position of surface states at the Ag-electrolyte contact are compared to the predictions of classical charge transfer models that are based on transition state theory where adiabatic tunneling is assumed. Distance tunneling spectroscopy on Au(111) surfaces shows pronounced variations in tunneling barrier heights that are connected to the inner structure of the Helmholtz layer and implications on electrode kinetics are presented. At the semiconductor-electrolyte contact, the influence of the electrode potential on a charge injecting species that results in photocurrent doubling is reviewed for low- and higher doped Si(111) electrodes, showing that the complex that injects electrons into the conduction band is located outside the semiconductor surface. The observations are correlated with the search for low overpotential earth abundant electrocatalysts for solar fuel generation of solar fuels.
Effects of Sonication on Electrodeposited Nickel-based Carbon Nanotube Composites Coatings
Authors: Suzuki Tsunehisa , Kato Mutsuto
Published: June 2013

Ni-based carbon nanotube (CNT) composite coatings have low friction and wear resistance properties improved by codepositing CNTs in the matrix. However, there are some large nodules on the surface of the Ni-CNT composite coatings because of codepositing large CNT aggregates in Ni matrix. The purpose of this study was to improve the surface roughness of the Ni-CNT composite coatings. For the purpose, two kinds of ultrasonic assisted electroplating using bath sonication method or horn sonication method were proposed. As a result, horn sonication method could effectively decrease the nodule on the coating and improve the surface roughness. The surface roughness of 0.1 μm Ra was obtained. Carbon component of the coating formed with bath sonication was 15at%. The component of the coatings formed with horn sonication was 45at%. Horn sonication increased CNTs concentration in the coatings three times compared with bath sonication.
Exercise after SCUBA diving increases the incidence of arterial gas embolism
Authors: Madden Dennis , Lozo Mislav , Dujic Zeljko , Ljubkovic Marko
Published: June 2013

Arterialization of gas bubbles after decompression from scuba diving has traditionally been associated with pulmonary barotraumas or cardiac defects, such as the patent foramen ovale. Recent studies have demonstrated the right-to-left passage of bubbles through intrapulmonary arterial-venous anastamoses (IPAVA) that allow blood to bypass the pulmonary microcirculation. These passages open up during exercise, and the aim of this study is to see if exercise in a postdiving period increases the incidence of arterialization. After completing a dive to 18 m for 47 min, patent foramen ovale-negative subjects were monitored via transthoracic echocardiography, within 10 min after surfacing, for bubble score at rest. Subjects then completed an incremental cycle ergometry test to exhaustion under continuous transthoracic echocardiography observation. Exercise was suspended if arterialization was observed and resumed when the arterialization cleared. If arterialization was observed a second time, exercise was terminated, and oxygen was administered. Out of 23 subjects, 3 arterialized at rest, 12 arterialized with exercise, and 8 did not arterialize at all even during maximal exercise. The time for arterialization to clear with oxygen was significantly shorter than without. Exercise after diving increased the incidence of arterialization from 13% at rest to 52%. This study shows that individuals are capable of arterializing through IPAVA, and that the intensity at which these open varies by individual. Basic activities associated with SCUBA diving, such as surface swimming or walking with heavy equipment, may be enough to allow the passage of venous gas emboli through IPAVA.
Immobilization-induced activation of key proteolytic systems in skeletal muscles is prevented by a mitochondria-targeted antioxidant
Authors: Talbert Erin E. , Smuder Ashley J. , Min Kisuk , Kwon Oh Sung , Szeto Hazel H. , Powers Scott K.
Published: June 2013

Long periods of skeletal muscle disuse result in muscle fiber atrophy, and mitochondrial production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) appears to be a required signal for the increase in protein degradation that occurs during disuse muscle atrophy. The experiments detailed here demonstrate for the first time in limb muscle that the inactivity-induced increases in E3 ligase expression and autophagy biomarkers result from increases in mitochondrial ROS emission. Treatment of animals with a mitochondrial-targeted antioxidant also prevented the disuse-induced decrease in anabolic signaling (Akt/mammalian target of rapamycin signaling) that is normally associated with prolonged inactivity in skeletal muscles. Additionally, our results confirm previous findings that treatment with a mitochondrial-targeted antioxidant is sufficient to prevent casting-induced skeletal muscle atrophy, mitochondrial dysfunction, and activation of the proteases calpain and caspase-3. Collectively, these data reveal that inactivity-induced increases in mitochondrial ROS emission play a required role in activation of key proteolytic systems and the downregulation of important anabolic signaling molecules in muscle fibers exposed to prolonged inactivity.
On the Security of Certificateless Signature Schemes
Authors: Sharma Gaurav , Bala Suman , Verma Anil K.
Published: June 2013

Wireless Sensor Network (WSN) has proved its presence in various real time applications and hence the security of such embedded devices is a vital issue. Certificateless cryptography is one of the recent paradigms to provide security. Certificateless public key cryptography (CL-PKC) deals effectively with the twin issues of certificate management in traditional public key cryptography and key escrow problem in identity-based cryptography. CL-PKC has attracted special attention in the field of information security as it has opened new avenues for improvement in the present security architecture. Recently, Tsai et al. proposed an improved certificateless signature scheme without pairing and claimed that their new construction is secure against different kinds of attacks. In this paper, we present a security analysis of their scheme and our results show that scheme does not have resistance against malicious-KGC attack. In addition, we have found some security flaws in the certificateless signature scheme of Fan et al. and proved the scheme vulnerable to Strong Type I attack.
Boerhaave's Syndrome: Still a Diagnostic and Therapeutic Challenge in the 21st Century
Authors: Spapen J. , De Regt J. , Nieboer K. , Verfaillie G. , Honoré P. M. , Spapen H.
Published: June 2013

Boerhaave's syndrome is a rare but potentially fatal condition characterised by a transmural tear of the distal oesophagus induced by a sudden increase in pressure. Diagnosis is challenging as the classic triad of vomiting, abdominal or chest pain, and subcutaneous emphysema is absent in many patients. Management is multidisciplinary and relies on rapid, distinct, and repeated imaging. Treatment has not been standardised and may be conservative, endoscopic, or surgical. We present a typical case which illustrates possible diagnostic pitfalls and the therapeutic conundrum surrounding management of the syndrome. Based on time of presentation and eventual presence of sepsis, a therapeutic algorithm is proposed.
Exponential Stability of Stochastic Nonlinear Dynamical Price System with Delay
Authors: Zhu Wenli , Ruan Xinfeng , Qin Ye , Zhuang Jie
Published: June 2013

Based on Lyapunov stability theory, Itô formula, stochastic analysis, and matrix theory, we study the exponential stability of the stochastic nonlinear dynamical price system. Using Taylor's theorem, the stochastic nonlinear system with delay is reduced to ann-dimensional semilinear stochastic differential equation with delay. Some sufficient conditions of exponential stability and corollaries for such price system are established by virtue of Lyapunov function. The time delay upper limit is solved by using our theoretical results when the system is exponentially stable. Our theoretical results show that if the classical price Rayleigh equation is exponentially stable, so is its perturbed system with delay provided that both the time delay and the intensity of perturbations are small enough. Two examples are presented to illustrate our results.
Dynamical Analysis of a Pest Management Model with Saturated Growth Rate and State Dependent Impulsive Effects
Authors: Zhao Wencai , Zhang Tongqian , Meng Xinzhu , Yang Yang
Published: June 2013

A new pest management mathematical model with saturated growth is proposed. The integrated pest management (IPM) strategy by introducing two state dependent pulses into the model is considered. Firstly, we analyze singular points of the model qualitatively and get the condition for focus point. Secondly, by using geometry theory of impulsive differential equation, the existence and stability of periodic solution of the system are discussed. Lastly, some examples and numerical simulations are given to illustrate our results.
Evaluation of Antileishmanial Activity of Selected Brazilian Plants and Identification of the Active Principles
Authors: Filho Valdir Cechinel , Meyre-Silva Christiane , Niero Rivaldo , Bolda Mariano Luisa Nathália , Gomes do Nascimento Fabiana , Vicente Farias Ingrid , Gazoni Vanessa Fátima , dos Santos Silva Bruna , Giménez Alberto , Gutierrez-Yapu David , Salamanca Efrain , Malheiros Angela
Published: June 2013

This study evaluated extracts, fractions, and isolated compounds from some selected Brazilian medicinal plants against strains of promastigotes ofLeishmania amazonensisandL. brasiliensis in vitro. The cell viability was determined, comparing the results with reference standards. The dichloromethane fractions of the roots, stems, and leaves ofAllamanda schottiishowed IC50values between 14.0 and 2.0 μg/mL. Plumericin was the main active compound, with IC50of 0.3 and 0.04 μg/mL against the two species ofLeishmaniaanalyzed. The hexane extract ofEugenia umbelliflorafruits showed IC50of 14.3 and 5.7 μg/mL againstL. amazonensisandL. brasiliensis, respectively. The methanolic extracts of the seeds ofGarcinia achachairuand guttiferone A presented IC50values of 35.9 and 10.4 μg/mL, againstL. amazonensis, respectively. The ethanolic extracts of the stem barks ofRapanea ferrugineaand the isolated compound, myrsinoic acid B, presented activity againstL. brasiliensiswith IC50of 24.1 and 6.1 μg/mL. Chloroform fraction ofSolanum sisymbriifoliumexhibited IC50of 33.8 and 20.5 μg/mL, and cilistol A was the main active principle, with IC50of 6.6 and 3.1 μg/mL againstL. amazonensisandL. brasiliensis, respectively. It is concluded that the analyzed plants are promising as new and effective antiparasitic agents.
How Much Delay Has to Be Tolerated in a Mobile Social Network?
Authors: Zhu Yanqin , Zhang Haojun , Ji Qijin
Published: June 2013

Message delivery in a mobile social network (MSN) is difficult due to the fact that the topology of such network is sparse and unstable. Various routing schemes for MSNs were proposed to make the message delivery robust and efficient. However, little research has been conducted to explore how much delay has to be tolerated for the message delivery from the source to the destination. Since the social relationships among nodes are stable during a certain period of time, it is expected that the delay of message delivery in MSNs could be modeled with a probability model. In this paper, we take the first step to address this issue. We firstly extract three routing models from the existing routing schemes for MSNs and then develop the probability models of the message transmission delay for each abstract routing model. The simulation results show that the theoretical models match very well the simulation trace statistics.
Swertiamarin: An Active Lead fromEnicostemma littoraleRegulates Hepatic and Adipose Tissue Gene Expression by Targeting PPAR-γand Improves Insulin Sensitivity in Experimental NIDDM Rat Model
Authors: Patel Tushar P. , Soni Sanket , Parikh Pankti , Gosai Jeetendra , Chruvattil Ragitha , Gupta Sarita
Published: June 2013

Enicostemma littorale(EL) Blume is one of the herbs widely used for treating and alleviating the effects of both type I and type II diabetes. However, lack of understanding of mechanism precludes the use of the herb and its molecules. In this study, we attempt to unravel the molecular mechanism of action of swertiamarin, a compound isolated form EL, by comparing its molecular effects with those of aqueous EL extract in alleviating the insulin resistance in type II diabetes. We further investigated hypolipidemic and insulin sensitizing effect of swertiamarin in experimentally induced noninsulin dependent diabetes mellitus (NIDDM) in rats. Swertiamarin (50 mg/kg) and aqueous extract (15 grams dried plant equivalent extract/kg) were administered to rats orally for 40 days and tight regulation of serum glucose, insulin, and lipid profile was found in both groups. Their mode of action was by restoring G6Pase and HMG-CoA reductase activities to normal levels and restoring normal transcriptional levels of PEPCK, GK, Glut 2, PPAR-γ, leptin, adiponectin, LPL, SREBP-1c, and Glut 4 genes. This suggests that both treatments increased insulin sensitivity and regulated carbohydrate and fat metabolism. This is the first report on the role of SM in regulating the PPARγ-mediated regulation of candidate genes involved in metabolism in peripheral tissuesin vivo.
A Resilience Approach to Symbiosis Networks of Ecoindustrial Parks Based on Cascading Failure Model
Authors: Zeng Yu , Xiao Renbin , Li Xiangmei
Published: June 2013

Evaluation and improvement of resilience in ecoindustrial parks have been the pressing issues to be addressed in the study of safety. In this paper, eco-industrial systems are extracted as symbiosis networks by using social network analysis first. We then construct a novel cascading failure model and propose an evaluation method of node importance according to the features of symbiosis networks of eco-industrial parks. Based on the cascading model, an effective new method, that is, the critical threshold, is put forward to quantitatively assess the resilience of symbiosis networks of eco-industrial parks. Some theoretical analysis is furthermore provided to the critical threshold. Finally, we take Jinjie eco-industrial system in Shanxi Province of China as a case to investigate its resilience. The key potential nodes are identified by using our model. We also find the respective relation among the resilience of symbiosis networks and the parameters in our cascading model. Theoretical analysis results and numerical simulations both show the optimal value of the tunable load parameter with which the strongest resilience level against cascading failures can be attained in symbiosis networks of eco-industrial parks.
Fractional Complex Transform and exp-Function Methods for Fractional Differential Equations
Authors: Bekir Ahmet , Güner Özkan , Cevikel Adem C.
Published: June 2013

The exp-function method is presented for finding the exact solutions of nonlinear fractional equations. New solutions are constructed in fractional complex transform to convert fractional differential equations into ordinary differential equations. The fractional derivatives are described in Jumarie's modified Riemann-Liouville sense. We apply the exp-function method to both the nonlinear time and space fractional differential equations. As a result, some new exact solutions for them are successfully established.
Osteoclasts and CD8 T Cells Form a Negative Feedback Loop That Contributes to Homeostasis of Both the Skeletal and Immune Systems
Authors: Buchwald Zachary S. , Aurora Rajeev
Published: June 2013

There are a number of dynamic regulatory loops that maintain homeostasis of the immune and skeletal systems. In this review, we highlight a number of these regulatory interactions that contribute to maintaining homeostasis. In addition, we review data on a negative regulatory feedback loop between osteoclasts and CD8 T cells that contributes to homeostasis of both the skeletal and immune systems.
Robust Control Charts for Monitoring Process Mean of Phase-I Multivariate Individual Observations
Authors: Variyath Asokan Mulayath , Vattathoor Jayasankar
Published: June 2013

Hoteling's T2 control charts are widely used in industries to monitor multivariate processes. The classical estimators, sample mean, and the sample covariance used in T2 control charts are highly sensitive to the outliers in the data. In Phase-I monitoring, control limits
are arrived at using historical data after identifying and removing the multivariate outliers. We propose Hoteling's T2 control charts with high-breakdown robust estimators based on
the reweighted minimum covariance determinant (RMCD) and the reweighted minimum
volume ellipsoid (RMVE) to monitor multivariate observations in Phase-I data. We assessed the performance of these robust control charts based on a large number of Monte
Carlo simulations by considering different data scenarios and found that the proposed control charts have better performance compared to existing methods.
Influences of Contact Pressure on the Performances of Polymer Electrolyte Fuel Cells
Authors: Ghosh Prakash C.
Published: June 2013

Fuel cells face major challenges in sustaining the laboratory-scale performance during the scale up. The contact resistance mainly arises from the dimensional mismatch between gasket and gas diffusion layer during scale up, which may cause diminution in performance. In the present work, experiment as well as modelling is carried out for different combinations of clamping force and gasket thickness. The polarisation behaviours of PEFCs configured under different clamping torques and gasket thicknesses are analysed. The combination of 0.3 mm gasket and 0.3 mm GDL under 3 Nm and 5 Nm clamping forces offers 480 mΩ cm2and 148 mΩ cm2contact resistances, respectively. The configurations under 3 Nm and 5 Nm clamping torques with 0.2 mm thick gasket offer contact resistances as low as 23 mΩ cm2and 11 mΩ cm2, respectively. The polarisation behaviour obtained from the experiment of such configurations is found to be in good agreement with the modelling results.
Forearm Compartment Syndrome of a Newborn Associated with Extravasation of Contrast Agent
Authors: Altan Egemen , Tutar Onur , Şenaran Hakan , Aydın Kerem , Acar Mehmet Ali , Yalçın Levent
Published: June 2013

Extravasation of contrast agents is a possible complication of imaging studies. Although extravasations typically cause minimal swelling or erythema, they can lead to compartment syndrome when the volume of extravasation is high. In this article, we will present an exceptional case where an insignificant amount of contrast agent extravasation led to a forearm compartment syndrome in a newborn, who was treated with an extended fasciotomy. We would like to emphasize the preventive techniques and treatment options of this iatrogenic complication in newborns. Close followup of the patient by the nurses, awareness of the parents and the personnel in the radiology department are the most important preventive measures in this extremity-threatening complication. Forearm compartment syndrome due to contrast agent extravasation may progress more rapidly in newborns even with smaller amounts of extravasation and prompt recognition of the pathology and immediate intervention are unevitable.
Increased Expression of Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor (EGF-R) in Patients with Different Forms of Lung Fibrosis
Authors: Tzouvelekis Argyris , Ntolios Paschalis , Karameris Andreas , Vilaras George , Boglou Panagiotis , Koulelidis Andreas , Archontogeorgis Kostas , Kaltsas Konstantinos , Zacharis George , Sarikloglou Evangelia , Steiropoulos Paschalis , Mikroulis Dimitrios , Koutsopoulos Anastasios , Froudarakis Marios , Bouros Demosthenes
Published: June 2013

Introduction. Emerging evidence supports the role of epidermal growth factor-receptor (EGFR) in fibrogenesis. The aim of our study was to investigate the expression profiles of EGFR in three forms of IIPs, including idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF), cryptogenic organizing pneumonia (COP), and nonspecific interstitial pneumonia (NSIP).Patients and Methods. Twenty newly diagnosed patients with IPF, 15 with COP, and 15 with NSIP (cellular,n=4and fibrotic,n=11) were investigated. Fifteen paraffin blocks obtained from the normal part of lungs removed for benign lesions were used as controls. Immunohistochemistry was carried out using specific monoclonal antibody. Results were verified by qRT-PCR.Results. A significant EGFR upregulation, both in protein and mRNA level, was observed in IPF, COP, and fibrotic NSIP samples compared to controls. EGFR was primarily localized in the hyperplastic alveolar epithelium surrounding areas of fibrosis in IPF, COP, and fibrotic NSIP samples, as assessed by double immunohistochemistry analysis with surfactant protein-A. EGFR mRNA levels were positively associated with indicators of lung fibrosis (type 1 collagen mRNA levels) and negatively correlated with functional prognostic parameters.Conclusions. We conclude that EGFR is upregulated in the hyperplastic alveolar epithelium in all three fibrotic forms of IIPs indicating a potential role during abnormal reepithelization.
Global Stability of Vector-Host Disease with Variable Population Size
Authors: Khan Muhammad Altaf , Islam Saeed , Khan Sher Afzal , Zaman Gul
Published: June 2013

The paper presents the vector-host disease with a variability in population. We assume, the disease is fatal and for some cases the infected individuals become susceptible. We first show the local and global stability of the disease-free equilibrium, for the case when, the disease free-equilibrium of the model is both locally as well as globally stable. For , the disease persistence occurs. The endemic equilibrium is locally as well as globally asymptotically stable for . Numerical results are presented for the justifications of theoratical results.
Metabolomics Application in Maternal-Fetal Medicine
Authors: Fanos Vassilios , Atzori Luigi , Makarenko Karina , Melis Gian Benedetto , Ferrazzi Enrico
Published: June 2013

Metabolomics in maternal-fetal medicine is still an “embryonic” science. However, there is already an increasing interest in metabolome of normal and complicated pregnancies, and neonatal outcomes. Tissues used for metabolomics interrogations of pregnant women, fetuses and newborns are amniotic fluid, blood, plasma, cord blood, placenta, urine, and vaginal secretions. All published papers highlight the strong correlation between biomarkers found in these tissues and fetal malformations, preterm delivery, premature rupture of membranes, gestational diabetes mellitus, preeclampsia, neonatal asphyxia, and hypoxic-ischemic encephalopathy. The aim of this review is to summarize and comment on original data available in relevant published works in order to emphasize the clinical potential of metabolomics in obstetrics in the immediate future.
Inhibition of NADPH Oxidase Mediates Protective Effect of Cardiotonic Pills against Rat Heart Ischemia/Reperfusion Injury
Authors: Yang Xiao-Yuan , Zhao Na , Liu Yu-Ying , Hu Bai-He , Sun Kai , Chang Xin , Wei Xiao-Hong , Fan Jing-Yu , Han Jing-Yan
Published: June 2013

Cardiotonic pill (CP) is a compound Chinese medicine currently used in China for treatment of ischemic angina pectoris. Our previous results indicated that a single dosing of CP pretreatment at 0.8 g/kg attenuates ischemia/reperfusion- (I/R-) induced myocardial injury and cardiac microcirculatory disturbance. The present study aimed to investigate the effect of CP at low dosage in a multiple dosing manner and to uncover the mechanism of antioxidative activity of CP. Male Sprague-Dawley rats were subjected to left anterior descending artery occlusion for 30 min followed by 60 min reperfusion. CP was administrated daily by gavage for six days at 0.1, 0.4, and 0.8 g/kg/day before I/R. Results showed that multiple dosing of CP at three doses significantly reduced I/R-induced myocardial injury, microcirculatory disturbance, and oxidative stress. CP dramatically inhibited I/R-induced nicotinamide adenosine dinucleotide phosphate (NADPH) oxidase subunitgp91phoxexpression andp67phoxandp47phoxtranslocation from cytosol to cell membrane. Translocation of cytosolic subunits to membrane is required for the activation of NADPH oxidase. These data suggested that multiple dosing of CP at doses ranging from 0.1 to 0.8 g/kg/day reduced I/R-induced rat myocardial injury and microcirculatory disturbance, which was mediated by inhibition of NADPH oxidase activation.
B-Lymphocytes from a Population of Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder and Their Unaffected Siblings Exhibit Hypersensitivity to Thimerosal
Authors: Sharpe Martyn A. , Gist Taylor L. , Baskin David S.
Published: June 2013

The role of thimerosal containing vaccines in the development of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) has been an area of intense debate, as has the presence of mercury dental amalgams and fish ingestion by pregnant mothers. We studied the effects of thimerosal on cell proliferation and mitochondrial function from B-lymphocytes taken from individuals with autism, their nonautistic twins, and their nontwin siblings. Eleven families were examined and compared to matched controls. B-cells were grown with increasing levels of thimerosal, and various assays (LDH, XTT, DCFH, etc.) were performed to examine the effects on cellular proliferation and mitochondrial function. A subpopulation of eight individuals (4 ASD, 2 twins, and 2 siblings) from four of the families showed thimerosal hypersensitivity, whereas none of the control individuals displayed this response. The thimerosal concentration required to inhibit cell proliferation in these individuals was only 40% of controls. Cells hypersensitive to thimerosal also had higher levels of oxidative stress markers, protein carbonyls, and oxidant generation. This suggests certain individuals with a mild mitochondrial defect may be highly susceptible to mitochondrial specific toxins like the vaccine preservative thimerosal.
Brain Physiology and Pathophysiology in Mental Stress
Authors: Alkadhi Karim
Published: June 2013

Exposure to various forms of stress is a common daily occurrence in the lives of most individuals, with both positive and negative effects on brain function. The impact of stress is strongly influenced by the type and duration of the stressor. In its acute form, stress may be a necessary adaptive mechanism for survival and with only transient changes within the brain. However, severe and/or prolonged stress causes overactivation and dysregulation of the hypothalamic pituitary adrenal (HPA) axis thus inflicting detrimental changes in the brain structure and function. Therefore, chronic stress is often considered a negative modulator of the cognitive functions including the learning and memory processes. Exposure to long-lasting stress diminishes health and increases vulnerability to mental disorders. In addition, stress exacerbates functional changes associated with various brain disorders including Alzheimer’s disease and Parkinson’s disease. The primary purpose of this paper is to provide an overview for neuroscientists who are seeking a concise account of the effects of stress on learning and memory and associated signal transduction mechanisms. This review discusses chronic mental stress and its detrimental effects on various aspects of brain functions including learning and memory, synaptic plasticity, and cognition-related signaling enabled via key signal transduction molecules.
AnIn VitroCulture System for Long-Term Expansion of Epithelial and Mesenchymal Salivary Gland Cells: Role of TGF-β1 in Salivary Gland Epithelial and Mesenchymal Differentiation
Authors: Janebodin Kajohnkiart , Buranaphatthana Worakanya , Ieronimakis Nicholas , Hays Aislinn L. , Reyes Morayma
Published: June 2013

Despite a pivotal role in salivary gland development, homeostasis, and disease, the role of salivary gland mesenchyme is not well understood. In this study, we used theCol1a1-GFPmouse model to characterize the salivary gland mesenchymein vitroandin vivo. TheCol1a1-GFPtransgene was exclusively expressed in the salivary gland mesenchyme.Ex vivoculture of mixed salivary gland cells in DMEM plus serum medium allowed long-term expansion of salivary gland epithelial and mesenchymal cells. The role of TGF-β1 in salivary gland development and disease is complex. Therefore, we used thisin vitroculture system to study the effects of TGF-β1 on salivary gland cell differentiation. TGF-β1 induced the expression of collagen, and inhibited the formation of acini-like structures in close proximity to mesenchymal cells, which adapted a fibroblastic phenotype. In contrast, TGF-βR1 inhibition increased acini genes and fibroblast growth factors (Fgf-7andFgf-10), decreased collagen and induced formation of larger, mature acini-like structures. Thus, inhibition of TGF-βsignaling may be beneficial for salivary gland differentiation; however, due to differential effects of TGF-β1 in salivary gland epithelial versus mesenchymal cells, selective inhibition is desirable. In conclusion, this mixed salivary gland cell culture system can be used to study epithelial-mesenchymal interactions and the effects of differentiating inducers and inhibitors.
Delineation of 2q32q35 Deletion Phenotypes: Two Apparent “Proximal” and “Distal” Syndromes
Authors: Mc Cormack Adrian , Taylor Juliet , Gregersen Nerine , George Alice M. , Love Donald R.
Published: June 2013

We report on three patients with interstitial deletions of the long arm of chromosome 2 involving bands 2q32.1–q35. They presented with wide-ranging phenotypic variation including facial dysmorphisms, cleft palate, learning difficulties, behavioural issues and severe heart defects. Microarray analysis confirmed an 8.6 Mb deletion in patients 1 and 2 and a 24.7 Mb deletion in patient 3. We discuss the genes involved in the deleted regions includingMYO1B,GLS,FRZB,SATB2, andCPS1and compare the phenotype with those reported in the literature. Taken together, these data suggest that there is a spectrum of disease severity such that patients with deletions encompassing the region of 2q32.1q32.2, which includes theFRZBgene, show an apparently milder phenotype compared to those that lie further distal in 2q32.3q35 that encompasses theSATB2gene.
Ambulatory Monitoring of Physical Activity Based on Knee Flexion/Extension Measured by Inductive Sensor Technology
Authors: Bonroy Bert , Meijer Kenneth , Dunias Par , Cuppens Kris , Gransier Ruud , Vanrumste Bart
Published: June 2013

We developed a knee brace to measure the knee angle and implicitly the flexion/extension (f/e) of the knee joint during daily activities. The goal of this study is to classify and validate a limited set of physical activities on ten young healthy subjects based on knee f/e. Physical activities included in this study are walking, ascending and descending of stairs, and fast locomotion (such as jogging, running, and sprinting) at self-selected speeds. The knee brace includes 2 accelerometers for static measurements and calibration and an inductive sensor for dynamic measurements. As we focus on physical activities, the inductive sensor will provide the required information on knee f/e. In this study, the subjects traversed a predefined track which consisted of indoor paths, outdoor paths, and obstacles. The activity classification algorithm based on peak detection in the knee f/e angle resulted in a detection rate of 95.9% for walking, 90.3% for ascending stairs, 78.3% for descending stairs, and 82.2% for fast locomotion. We conclude that we developed a measurement device which allows long-term and ambulatory monitoring. Furthermore, it is possible to predict the aforementioned activities with an acceptable performance.
Cross-Temporal and Cross-National Poverty and Mortality Rates among Developed Countries
Authors: Fritzell Johan , Kangas Olli , Bacchus Hertzman Jennie , Blomgren Jenni , Hiilamo Heikki
Published: June 2013

A prime objective of welfare state activities is to take action to enhance population health and to decrease mortality risks. For several centuries, poverty has been seen as a key social risk factor in these respects. Consequently, the fight against poverty has historically been at the forefront of public health and social policy. The relationship between relative poverty rates and population health indicators is less self-evident, notwithstanding the obvious similarity to the debated topic of the relationship between population health and income inequality. In this study we undertake a comparative analysis of the relationship between relative poverty and mortality across 26 countries over time, with pooled cross-sectional time series analysis. We utilize data from the Luxembourg Income Study to construct age-specific poverty rates across countries and time covering the period from around 1980 to 2005, merged with data on age- and gender-specific mortality data from the Human Mortality Database. Our results suggest not only an impact of relative poverty but also clear differences by welfare regime that partly goes beyond the well-known differences in poverty rates between welfare regimes.
Effects of Systemic Pesticides Imidacloprid and Metalaxyl on the Phyllosphere of Pepper Plants
Authors: Moulas Constantinos , Petsoulas Christos , Rousidou Konstantina , Perruchon Chiara , Karas Panagiotis , Karpouzas Dimitrios G.
Published: June 2013

Microbes inhabiting the phyllosphere of crops are exposed to pesticides applied either directly onto plant foliage or indirectly through soil. Although, phyllosphere microbiology has been rapidly evolving, little is still known regarding the impact of pesticides on the epiphytic microbial community and especially on fungi. We determined the impact of two systemic pesticides (metalaxyl and imidacloprid), applied either on foliage or through soil, on the epiphytic fungal and bacterial communities via DGGE and cloning. Both pesticides induced mild effects on the fungal and the bacterial communities. The only exception was the foliage application of imidacloprid which showed a more prominent effect on the fungal community. Cloning showed that the fungal community was dominated by putative plant pathogenic ascomycetes (Erysiphaceae andCladosporium), while a few basidiomycetes were also present. The former ribotypes were not affected by pesticides application, while selected yeasts (Cryptococcus) were stimulated by the application of imidacloprid suggesting a potential role in its degradation. A less diverse bacterial community was identified in pepper plants. Metalaxyl stimulated an Enterobacteriaceae clone which is an indication of the involvement of members of this family in fungicide degradation. Further studies will focus on the isolation of epiphytic microbes which appear to be stimulated by pesticides application.
Antioxidant Enzymes Mediate Survival of Breast Cancer Cells Deprived of Extracellular Matrix
Authors: Davison Calli A. , Durbin Sienna M. , Thau Matthew R. , Zellmer Victoria R. , Chapman Sarah E. , Diener Justin , Wathen Connor , Leevy W. Matthew , Schafer Zachary T.
Published: June 2013

Metastasis by cancer cells relies upon the acquisition of the ability to evade anoikis, a cell death process elicited by detachment from extracellular matrix (ECM). The molecular mechanisms that ECM-detached cancer cells use to survive are not understood. Striking increases in reactive oxygen species (ROS) occur in ECM-detached mammary epithelial cells, threatening cell viability by inhibiting ATP production, suggesting that ROS must be neutralized if cells are to survive ECM-detachment. Here, we report the discovery of a prominent role for antioxidant enzymes, including catalase and superoxide dismutase, in facilitating the survival of breast cancer cells after ECM-detachment. Enhanced expression of antioxidant enzymes in nonmalignant mammary epithelial cells detached from ECM resulted in ATP elevation and survival in the luminal space of mammary acini. Conversely, silencing antioxidant enzyme expression in multiple breast cancer cell lines caused ATP reduction and compromised anchorage-independent growth. Notably, antioxidant enzyme-deficient cancer cells were compromised in their ability to form tumors in mice. In aggregate, our results reveal a vital role for antioxidant enzyme activity in maintaining metabolic activity and anchorage-independent growth in breast cancer cells. Furthermore, these findings imply that eliminating antioxidant enzyme activity may be an effective strategy to enhance susceptibility to cell death in cancer cells that may otherwise survive ECM-detachment. Cancer Res; 73(12); 3704–15. ©2013 AACR.
Pattern of Executive Impairment in Mild to Moderate Parkinson's Disease
Authors: Kudlicka Aleksandra , Clare Linda , Hindle John V.
Published: June 2013

Background/Aims: The exact pattern of impairment in executive functions (EF) among people with Parkinson's disease (PD) is still debated. Using a data-driven approach we investigated which areas of EF are particularly problematic in mild to moderate PD. Methods: Thirty-four patients with mild to moderate PD, who scored in the normal range on general cognition screening tests, but displayed frontal-type deficits indicated by Frontal Assessment Battery screening, completed the 9 tests that comprise the Delis-Kaplan Executive Function System. Patterns of performance were explored using cluster analysis and principal component analysis (PCA), and the frequency of impairments was established using normative data. Results: Both cluster analysis and PCA identified two distinct groups of EF tests. The first group included tests requiring time-efficient attentional control (e.g. the Trail Making test). The second group included tests measuring abstract reasoning and concept formation abilities (e.g. the 20 Questions test). Impairment was more frequent on the attentional control tests than on the abstract thinking tests. Conclusion: PD pathology in the mild to moderate PD appears to affect the attentional control aspect of EF to a greater extent than abstract reasoning. Understanding the nature of executive deficits in PD is important for the development of targeted pharmacological and cognitive interventions for cognitive disturbances.
Age Differences in the Associations of Behavioral and Psychosocial Factors with Stroke
Authors: Wang Liang , Wang Ke-Sheng
Published: June 2013

Background: Stroke remains a major public health burden. Few studies have focused on the age differences in the associations of behavioral and psychosocial factors with stroke while no study focusing on the effect of severe psychological distress (SPD) on stroke has been conducted. The aim of this study was to examine the age differences in these risk factors for stroke as young (18-44 years), middle aged (45-64 years), and elderly (65 years or older). Methods: A total of 1,258 adults with stroke and 39,985 controls were selected from the 2005 California Health Interview Survey. Multiple logistic regression analyses were used to estimate the associations of the factors with stroke at different ages. Results: The prevalence of SPD was 10% in cases and 3.6% in controls, respectively. Overall, current smoking, lack of physical activity, alcohol consumption, SPD, type II diabetes, male, older age, and unemployment were all associated with a higher prevalence of stroke. Practically, we found that smoking and SPD were associated with the prevalence of stroke in young adults, lack of physical activity was associated with the prevalence of stroke in middle-aged adults, and lack of physical activity and SPD were associated with the prevalence of stroke in the elderly. Conclusions: Appropriate intervention for reducing stroke and eliminating its disparities may be developed separately at each age.
The Principle of Persistence, Leibniz's Law, and the Computational Task of Object Re-Identification
Authors: Fields Christopher A.
Published: June 2013

Infant abilities to re-identify objects through time have been characterized in terms of a ‘‘principle of persistence'' [Baillargeon (2008): Perspectives on Psychological Science, 3, 2-13]. It is argued that the proposed principle of persistence has neither theoretical content nor explanatory power, and that object persistence is itself not an explanatory principle but rather an effect to be explained. The computational task of object re-identification across gaps in observation is characterized, and shown to be computationally intractable and hence solvable only by means of heuristics. It is argued that understanding infant abilities to re-identify objects requires focused investigation of the object re-identification heuristics that infants actually deploy and their neurocognitive implementation.
Longitudinal Changes in Serum Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor in Accident Survivors with Posttraumatic Stress Disorder
Authors: Matsuoka Yutaka , Nishi Daisuke , Noguchi Hiroko , Kim Yoshiharu , Hashimoto Kenji
Published: June 2013

Background: This prospective cohort study investigated the serum levels of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), which mediates synaptic plasticity crucial for fear memory extinction, in patients severely injured in motor vehicle accidents (MVAs). Method: A nested, case-controlled study was conducted with 103 MVA survivors: 8 medication-naïve patients who met the criteria for full diagnosis of posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) at 6 months after MVA, 10 medication-naïve patients with partial PTSD and 85 patients with no PTSD. PTSD was evaluated by the Clinician-Administered PTSD Scale (CAPS). Serum BDNF levels were measured shortly after the MVA (baseline) and at 6-month follow-up. Results: Posttrauma serum BDNF levels differed between the 3 groups after controlling for age and sex (F = 3.41, p = 0.04), with unexpectedly higher serum BDNF levels seen in the full-PTSD group compared with the no-PTSD group. Additional analysis of patients with serum samples taken at baseline and at 6 months revealed the full-PTSD group had significantly higher serum BDNF levels over the 6 months than the no-PTSD group after controlling for age and sex (F = 6.44, p < 0.01). A positive correlation was seen between changes in serum BDNF levels over 6 months and the CAPS score at 6 months (r = 0.26, p = 0.014). Conclusions: The findings of this study, the first to report longitudinal serum BDNF levels in MVA survivors, suggest that elevated serum BDNF levels could be a biomarker of PTSD after a traumatic event.