bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Identification of a Novel Quantitative Trait Nucleotype Related to Iron Status in a Calcium Channel Gene
Authors: Baeza-Richer Carlos , Blanco-Rojo Ruth , López-Parra Ana M. , Brichs Anna , Bertoncini Stefania , Pérez-Granados Ana M. , Buil Alfonso , Soria José M. , Arroyo-Pardo Eduardo , Vaquero M. Pilar
Published: June 2013

Several iron-related parameters have been reported to show significant heritability, and thus, seemed to be genetically regulated. A genome wide family-based study revealed two regions that showed a linkage signal with transferrin receptor levels. The aim of the study was to identify genetic markers associated with iron status biomarkers. Ten SNPs selected from the literature were tested, and parameters related to iron metabolism were analysed, in a group (n=284) of Spanish women. Data were analyzed using Bayesian Model Averaging (BMA) test and decision trees. The rs1375515, located in an intronic region of the calcium channel geneCACNA2D3, showed strong associations with levels of mean corpuscular volume according to BMA test, and with levels of haemoglobin and ferritin according to decision trees. The allele G was associated to low levels of these parameters which suggests higher iron deficiency anaemia risk. This SNP along with the C282Y mutation explained significant differences in the distribution of individuals in three iron-related clinical phenotypes (normal, iron deficient and iron deficiency anaemic). In conclusion, the rs1375515, or other genetic polymorphisms in linkage, may play important roles in iron status, probably by affecting the function of a calcium channel. These findings may be useful for further investigation in the etiology of iron diseases.
A Two-Parametric Class of Merit Functions for the Second-Order Cone Complementarity Problem
Authors: Chi Xiaoni , Wan Zhongping , Hao Zijun
Published: June 2013

We propose a two-parametric class of merit functions for the second-order cone complementarity problem (SOCCP) based on the one-parametric class of complementarity functions. By the new class of merit functions, the SOCCP can be reformulated as an unconstrained minimization problem. The new class of merit functions is shown to possess some favorable properties. In particular, it provides a global error bound ifFandGhave the joint uniform CartesianP-property. And it has bounded level sets under a weaker condition than the most available conditions. Some preliminary numerical results for solving the SOCCPs show the effectiveness of the merit function method via the new class of merit functions.
Global Robust Exponential Dissipativity for Interval Recurrent Neural Networks with Infinity Distributed Delays
Authors: Wang Xiaohong , Qi Huan
Published: June 2013

This paper is concerned with the robust dissipativity problem for interval recurrent neural networks (IRNNs) with general activation functions, and continuous time-varying delay, and infinity distributed time delay. By employing a new differential inequality, constructing two different kinds of Lyapunov functions, and abandoning the limitation on activation functions being bounded, monotonous and differentiable, several sufficient conditions are established to guarantee the global robust exponential dissipativity for the addressed IRNNs in terms of linear matrix inequalities (LMIs) which can be easily checked by LMI Control Toolbox in MATLAB. Furthermore, the specific estimation of positive invariant and global exponential attractive sets of the addressed system is also derived. Compared with the previous literatures, the results obtained in this paper are shown to improve and extend the earlier global dissipativity conclusions. Finally, two numerical examples are provided to demonstrate the potential effectiveness of the proposed results.
Numerical Simulations for the Space-Time Variable Order Nonlinear Fractional Wave Equation
Authors: Sweilam Nasser Hassan , Assiri Taghreed Abdul Rahman
Published: June 2013

The explicit finite-difference method for solving variable order fractional space-time wave equation with a nonlinear source term is considered. The concept of variable order fractional derivative is considered in the sense of Caputo. The stability analysis and the truncation error of the method are discussed. To demonstrate the effectiveness of the method, some numerical test examples are presented.
Measurement-Based Spatial Correlation and Capacity of Indoor Distributed MIMO System
Authors: Zhang Yan , Xiao Limin , Zhou Shidong , Wang Jing
Published: June 2013

Distributed MIMO (D-MIMO) system is one of the candidates for future wireless access networks. In this study, the spatial correlation and capacity in indoor D-MIMO system are presented. All results are from the actual channel measurements in typical indoor scenarios, including office and corridor. Based on measured data, spatial correlation coefficients between distributed transmitting antennas are analyzed. Although the literature about D-MIMO system assumes the small scale fading between distributed antennas is independent, we find that spatial correlation may still exist in specific propagation scenario. This correlation can also degrade the performance of D-MIMO system. To mitigate the impact of spatial correlation, one efficient method is to use transmitting antenna selection technique.
Altered Functional Connectivity of the Primary Visual Cortex in Subjects with Amblyopia
Authors: Ding Kun , Liu Yong , Yan Xiaohe , Lin Xiaoming , Jiang Tianzi
Published: June 2013

Amblyopia, which usually occurs during early childhood and results in poor or blurred vision, is a disorder of the visual system that is characterized by a deficiency in an otherwise physically normal eye or by a deficiency that is out of proportion with the structural or functional abnormalities of the eye. Our previous study demonstrated alterations in the spontaneous activity patterns of some brain regions in individuals with anisometropic amblyopia compared to subjects with normal vision. To date, it remains unknown whether patients with amblyopia show characteristic alterations in the functional connectivity patterns in the visual areas of the brain, particularly the primary visual area. In the present study, we investigated the differences in the functional connectivity of the primary visual area between individuals with amblyopia and normal-sighted subjects using resting functional magnetic resonance imaging. Our findings demonstrated that the cerebellum and the inferior parietal lobule showed altered functional connectivity with the primary visual area in individuals with amblyopia, and this finding provides further evidence for the disruption of the dorsal visual pathway in amblyopic subjects.
Effect of Non-Surgical Periodontal Therapy on Interleukin-29 Levels in Gingival Crevicular Fluid of Chronic Periodontitis and Aggressive Periodontitis Patients
Authors: Shivaprasad B. M. , Pradeep A. R.
Published: June 2013

Recently discovered interleukin 29 (IL-29) has antiviral properties and its production is induced by herpes viruses. This study was aimed at analyzing the effect of non-surgical periodontal treatment on IL-29 levels in gingival crevicular fluid (GCF) of chronic and aggressive periodontitis patients. A total of 60 participants were divided into healthy group (group 1;n= 20), chronic periodontitis group (group 2;n= 20), and aggressive periodontitis group (group 3;n= 20). GCF samples collected from each subject at baseline and 6–8 weeks after scaling and root planing were quantified for IL-29 levels using ELISA. The mean IL-29 concentration in GCF was found to be highest in group 3 (92.37 pg/μl). The mean IL-29 level in group 1 and group 2 was 36.88 pg/μl and 69.35 pg/μl respectively. After scaling and root planing, the mean concentration of IL-29 in GCF was increased to 85.99 pg/μl in group 2 and to 114.64 pg/μl in group 3. Results of the present study indicate that antiviral IL-29 level was highest in GCF of aggressive periodontitis patients and least in subjects with healthy periodontium, while that of chronic periodontitis lying in between. After non-surgical periodontal therapy, IL-29 levels increased both in chronic and aggressive periodontitis patients and deserve further investigation as a potential therapeutic agent in treating periodontitis.
Urinary MMP-9/NGAL Ratio as a Potential Marker of FSGS in Nephrotic Children
Authors: Korzeniecka-Kozerska Agata , Wasilewska Anna , Tenderenda Edyta , Sulik Agnieszka , Cybulski Kamil
Published: June 2013

BACKGROUND: The study was undertaken to develop a potential new markers for distinguishing minimal change nephrotic syndrome (MCNS) and focal segmental glomerulosclerosis (FSGS) in children. We hypothesized that matrix metalloproteinase-9/neutrophil gelatinase-associated lipocalin (MMP-9/NGAL) is a better marker of focal sclerosis in the glomerulus then matrix metalloproteinase-9/tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinase-1 (MMP-9/TIMP-1) and matrix metalloproteinase-2/tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinase-2 MMP2/TIMP-2.

METHODS: The present study used a sample of 36 children and adolescents subdivided into two groups: I – 20 children with MCNS, subjected to examination twice: A – in relapse of nephrotic syndrome, before treatment and B – after regression of proteinuria; II – 16 children with FSGS. MMPs and TIMPs and NGAL levels were measured in the urine using ELISA kit. MMP-9/TIMP-1, MMP-2/TIMP-2 and MMP-9/NGAL ratios were calculated.

RESULTS: Median NGAL/cr. was significantly higher in MCNS and FSGS patients when compared to healthy controls. Both, NGAL and MMP-9 urinary levels were significantly elevated in FSGS subjects, as compared with control subjects. Contrary to FSGS children, in MCNS group, before treatment only NGAL/cr., but not MMP-9/cr. was increased. Urinary concentrations of NGAL and MMP-9 were highly associated with each other (NGAL/cr. vs. MMP-9/cr.,r= 0.485,p< 0.01). Median urine MMP-9/NGAL ratio in FSGS patients was significantly higher than in patients with MCNS. We also found that significant increase in MMP-9/NGAL was associated with FSGS [odds ratio (OR) – 9.0; confidence interval (CI) 1.97–41.07].

CONCLUSION: MMP-9/NGAL ratio may serve as differentiation marker between MCNS and FSGS in nephrotic children.
Adult T-Cell Leukemia-Lymphoma during Pregnancy
Authors: Amor Martin Miguel , Olaso Aedan Simon , Atienza Robert , Stueben Benjamin , Cohen Seth , Kossev Plamen
Published: June 2013

Adult T-cell leukemia-lymphoma (ATL) is an uncommon highly aggressive T-cell lymphoma associated with human T-cell lymphotropic virus type 1 (HTLV-1) infection. It is rarely encountered during pregnancy and is particularly challenging to treat due to its aggressive nature and because of the lack of robust data on optimal chemotherapy. We report a case of a Jamaican immigrant diagnosed with ATL during pregnancy.
Rhabdomyolysis Associated with Parainfluenza Virus
Authors: Douvoyiannis Miltiadis , Kielbasa Johanna M. , Chandrasekharan Gopal M. , Holmes Cynthia L. , Gomez Michael R.
Published: June 2013

Influenza virus is the most frequently reported viral cause of rhabdomyolysis. A 7-year-old child is presented with rhabdomyolysis associated with parainfluenza type 2 virus. Nine cases of rhabdomyolysis associated with parainfluenza virus have been reported. Complications may include electrolyte disturbances, acute renal failure, and compartment syndrome.
Quantification of Plasma Cell-Free DNA1in Predicting Therapeutic Efficacy of Sorafenib on Metastatic Clear Cell Renal Cell Carcinoma
Authors: Feng Gang , Ye Xiaobing , Fang Fang , Pu Chun , Huang Houbao , Li Guorong
Published: June 2013

PURPOSE: The objective of this study is to determine whether or not plasma cfDNA levels can predict efficacy of sorafenib in patient with metastatic cRCC.

MATERIALS AND METHODS: Plasma cfDNA levels were quantified by quantitative real-time PCR at six different time-points (before treatment, 4 weeks, 8 weeks, 12 weeks, 16 weeks, and 24 weeks) in 18 metastatic cRCC patients receiving sorafenib, as assessed by CT examination according to RECIST 1.1.

RESULTS: A significantly lower plasma cfDNA level, measured from 8 weeks to 24 weeks, was found in patients with remission or stable disease than in those with progression. Higher levels in plasma cfDNA levels during the course of treatment indicated poor outcome. For predicting progression, a sensitivity of 66.7% was achieved at 100% specificity using cfDNA levels at 8 weeks.

CONCLUSIONS: Monitoring of plasma cfDNA levels during the course of sorafenib therapy could identify metastatic cRCC patients who are likely to exhibit a poor response at an early stage.
Modification of Decellularized Goat-Lung Scaffold with Chitosan/Nanohydroxyapatite Composite for Bone Tissue Engineering Applications
Authors: Gupta Sweta K. , Dinda Amit K. , Potdar Pravin D. , Mishra Narayan C.
Published: June 2013

Decellularized goat-lung scaffold was fabricated by removing cells from cadaver goat-lung tissue, and the scaffold was modified with chitosan/nanohydroxyapatite composite for the purpose of bone tissue engineering applications. MTT assay with osteoblasts, seeded over the chitosan/nanohydroxyapatite-modified decellularized scaffold, demonstrated significantly higher cell growth as compared to the decellularized scaffold without modification. SEM analysis of cell-seeded scaffold, after incubation for 7 days, represented a good cell adhesion, and the cells spread over the chitosan/nanohydroxyapatite-modified decellularized scaffold. Expression of bone-tissue-specific osteocalcin gene in the osteoblast cells grown over the chitosan/nanohydroxyapatite-modified decellularized scaffold clearly signifies that the cells maintained their osteoblastic phenotype with the chitosan/nanohydroxyapatite-modified decellularized scaffold. Therefore, it can be concluded that the decellularized goat-lung scaffold-modified with chitosan/nanohydroxyapatite composite, may provide enhanced osteogenic potential when used as a scaffold for bone tissue engineering.
Psoriasin: A Novel Marker Linked Obesity with Psoriasis
Authors: Salama Ragaa H. M. , Al-Shobaili Hani A. , Al Robaee Ahmad A. , Alzolibani Abdullateef A.
Published: June 2013

To evaluate the role of psoriasin, koebnerisin, interleukn (IL)-12 and IL-23 in the pathogenesis of psoriasis and their relations to Psoriasis Area Severity Index (PASI) and obesity. Thirty patients had chronic plaque psoriasis and 30 healthy subjects matched in age and sex were enrolled in this study. Serum from all subjects were used for determination of psoriasin, koebnerisin, IL-12 and IL-23 by ELISA kits. IL-23 and psoriasin were significantly higher in skin psoriasis compared to controls and psoriatic arthritis (PsA). There was a correlation between psoriasin and both PASI and obesity. On the other hand, IL-12 was significantly increased in PsA compared to skin psoriasis (p= 0.000) and controls. Its sensitivity and specificity were 87%, 93%; respectively. To our knowledge, psoriasin is the first biomarker confirm the link between obesity and psoriasis. The risk of developing psoriasis is directly related to higher BMI.
Reproducibility in Nerve Morphometry: Comparison between Methods and among Observers
Authors: Bilego Neto Antônio Paulo da Costa , Silveira Fernando Braga Cassiano , Rodrigues da Silva Greice Anne , Sanada Luciana Sayuri , Fazan Valéria Paula Sassoli
Published: June 2013

We investigated the reproducibility of a semiautomated method (computerized with manual intervention) for nerve morphometry (counting and measuring myelinated fibers) between three observers with different levels of expertise and experience with the method. Comparisons between automatic (fully computerized) and semiautomated morphometric methods performed by the same computer software using the same nerve images were also performed. Sural nerves of normal adult rats were used. Automatic and semiautomated morphometry of the myelinated fibers were made through the computer software KS-400. Semiautomated morphometry was conducted by three independent observers on the same images, using the semiautomated method. Automatic morphometry overestimated the myelin sheath area, thus overestimating the myelinated fiber size and underestimating the axon size. Fiber distributions overestimation was of 0.5 μm. For the semiautomated morphometry, no differences were found between observers for myelinated fiber and axon size distributions. Overestimation of the myelin sheath size of normal fibers by the fully automatic method might have an impact when morphometry is used for diagnostic purposes. We suggest that not only semiautomated morphometry results can be compared between different centers in clinical trials but it can also be performed by more than one investigator in one single experiment, being a reliable and reproducible method.
HLA-G/C, miRNAs, and Their Role in HIV Infection and Replication
Authors: Celsi Fulvio , Catamo Eulalia , Kleiner Giulio , Tricarico Paola Maura , Vuch Josef , Crovella Sergio
Published: June 2013

In recent years, a number of different mechanisms regulating gene expressions, either in normal or in pathological conditions, have been discovered. This review aims to highlight some of the regulatory pathways involved during the HIV-1 infection and disease progression, focusing on the novel discovered microRNAs (miRNAs) and their relation with immune system’s agents. Human leukocyte antigen (HLA) family of proteins plays a key role because it is a crucial modulator of the immune response; here we will examine recent findings, centering especially on HLA-C and -G, novel players lately discovered to engage in modulation of immune system. We hope to provide novel perspectives useful to find out original therapeutic roads against HIV-1 infection and AIDS progression.
Malondialdehyde Adduct to Hemoglobin: A New Marker of Oxidative Stress Suitable for Full-Term and Preterm Neonates
Authors: Cipierre Cécile , Haÿs Stéphane , Maucort-Boulch Delphine , Steghens Jean-Paul , Picaud Jean-Charles
Published: June 2013

Oxidative stress may play a central role in the onset of many diseases during the neonatal period. Malondialdehyde (MDA) is a marker of lipid peroxidation. The aim of this study was to evaluate a new marker, the malondialdehyde adduct to hemoglobin (MDA-Hb), which is measured in red blood cells (RBCs) and thus does not require that an additional blood sample be drawn. In this prospective study, we first adapted the measurement method previously described to Hb solutions obtained from washed RBCs and then evaluated the suitability of the method for use in neonates. MDA-Hb concentrations were measured by liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry. We compared the concentrations of MDA-Hb between preterm and term neonates. Erythrocyte samples were collected at birth from 60 healthy neonates (29 full-term and 31 preterm), as well as from 50 preterm neonates with uncomplicated postnatal evolution during the first months of life. We found a significantly higher MDA-Hb concentration at birth in preterm neonates (). During the first months of life, MDA-Hb concentrations were 9.4 nanomol/g Hb in hospitalized preterm neonates. MDA-Hb could be used to assess oxidative stress in preterm neonates. Together with clinical variables, it could be a useful marker for oxidative stress exposition in these higher risk patients.
Serum Cytokines Correlated with The Disease Severity of Generalized Pustular Psoriasis
Authors: Yamamoto Masaaki , Imai Yasutomo , Sakaguchi Yoshiko , Haneda Takashi , Yamanishi Kiyofumi
Published: June 2013

To characterize serum biomarkers reflecting the severity of generalized pustular psoriasis (GPP), we measured multiple cytokine/chemokine levels in 39 serum samples from 6 cases with GPP during the course of the disease. Serum levels of IL-4, IL-8, CXCL1 and CCL3 were positively correlated with the severity scores of GPP, white blood cell counts and serum C-reactive protein levels. Serum levels of IL-1β, IL-1ra, IL-6, IL-10, IL-12p70, IL-18, IL-22, IFN-γand VEGF showed strong positive correlations (r> 0.4,p< 0.01) with all those 3 clinical markers. Of those, IL-10 and IL-22 were significantly decreased after treatment in parallel with the GPP score and therefore those two serum cytokines might be useful to evaluate the efficacy of treatment for GPP.
Purification and Characterization of a Nonenzymatic Neurotoxin fromHippasa partita(Lycosidae) Spider Venom Gland Extract
Authors: Nagaraju S. , Kemparaju K.
Published: June 2013

India is a habitat for nearly one thousand four hundred forty-seven species of spiders under three hundred and sixty-five genera and sixty families. Our initial survey on toxic bite by spider revealed severe edema, itching, acute pain, and hemorrhage following tissue necrosis, which are the general symptoms of envenomation, but there are no reports of mortality. Significantly,Hippasa partitaspider, commonly called “funnel web spider,” which is endemic in hilly regions of the Western Ghats is responsible for envenomation. In this study, a nonenzymatic neurotoxin has been purified fromH. partitavenom gland extract. Gel filtration and ion exchange chromatography were used to purify the toxin into homogeneity as shown by SDS-PAGE, RP-HPLC, and MALDI-TOF. Neurotoxin is devoid of enzymatic activities but causes intense neurotoxic symptoms. Neurotoxin is found to inhibit the twitch response of sciatic nerve gastrocnemius muscle preparation and is found to be postsynaptic in action. Neurotoxin is devoid of coagulant activity, edema, and hemorrhage and is nonlethal to mice (up to 5 mg/kg body weight). In conclusion, a neurotoxin, which is a principle agent in whole venom responsible for induced neurotoxic symptoms, has been purified and characterized.
A Comparison of Hyperelastic Warping of PET Images with Tagged MRI for the Analysis of Cardiac Deformation
Authors: Veress Alexander I. , Klein Gregory , Gullberg Grant T.
Published: June 2013

The objectives of the following research were to evaluate the utility of a deformable image registration technique known as hyperelastic warping for the measurement of local strains in the left ventricle through the analysis of clinical, gated PET image datasets. Two normal human male subjects were sequentially imaged with PET and tagged MRI imaging. Strain predictions were made for systolic contraction using warping analyses of the PET images and HARP based strain analyses of the MRI images. Coefficient of determinationR2values were computed for the comparison of circumferential and radial strain predictions produced by each methodology. There was good correspondence between the methodologies, withR2values of 0.78 for the radial strains of both hearts and from anR2=0.81andR2=0.83for the circumferential strains. The strain predictions were not statistically different(P≤0.01). A series of sensitivity results indicated that the methodology was relatively insensitive to alterations in image intensity, random image noise, and alterations in fiber structure. This study demonstrated that warping was able to provide strain predictions of systolic contraction of the LV consistent with those provided by tagged MRI Warping.
Bovine Tuberculosis and Brucellosis in Traditionally Managed Livestock in Selected Districts of Southern Province of Zambia
Authors: Muma J. B. , Syakalima M. , Munyeme M. , Zulu V. C. , Simuunza M. , Kurata M.
Published: June 2013

A study was performed in 2008 to estimate the prevalence of tuberculosis and brucellosis in traditionally reared cattle of Southern Province in Zambia in four districts. The single comparative intradermal tuberculin test (SCITT) was used to identify TB reactors, and the Rose Bengal test (RBT), followed by confirmation with competitive enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (c-ELISA), was used to test for brucellosis. A total of 459 animals were tested for tuberculosis and 395 for brucellosis. The overall prevalence of BTB based on the 4 mm and 3 mm cutoff criteria was 4.8% (95% CI: 2.6–7.0%) and 6.3% (95% CI: 3.8–8.8%), respectively. Change in skin thickness on SCITT was influenced by initial skin-fold thickness at the inoculation site, where animals with thinner skin had a tendency to give a larger tuberculin response. Brucellosis seroprevalence was estimated at 20.7% (95% CI: 17.0–24.4%). Comparison between results from RBT and c-ELISA showed good agreement (84.1%) and revealed subjectivity in RBT test results. Differences in brucellosis and tuberculosis prevalence across districts were attributed to type of husbandry practices and ecological factors. High prevalence of tuberculosis and brucellosis suggests that control control programmes are necessary for improved cattle productivity and reduced public health risk.
An Elastin-Derived Self-Assembling Polypeptide
Authors: Pepe Antonietta , Bochicchio Brigida
Published: June 2013

Elastin is an extracellular matrix protein responsible for the elastic properties of organs and tissues, the elastic properties being conferred to the protein by the presence of elastic fibers. In the perspective of producing tailor-made biomaterials of potential interest in nanotechnology and biotechnology fields, we report a study on an elastin-derived polypeptide. The choice of the polypeptide sequence encoded by exon 6 of Human Tropoelastin Gene is dictated by the peculiar sequence of the polypeptide. As a matter of fact, analogously to elastin, it is constituted of a hydrophobic region (GLGAFPAVTFPGALVPGG) and of a more hydrophilic region rich of lysine and alanine residues (VADAAAAYKAAKA). The role played by the two different regions in triggering the adoption of beta-turn and beta-sheet conformations is herein discussed and demonstrated to be crucial for the self-aggregation properties of the polypeptide.
Generalized -Cocoercive Operators and Generalized Set-Valued Variational-Like Inclusions
Authors: Husain Shamshad , Gupta Sanjeev , Mishra Vishnu Narayan
Published: June 2013

We investigate a new class of cocoercive operators named generalized -cocoercive operators in Hilbert spaces. We prove that generalized -cocoercive operator is single-valued and Lipschitz continuous and extends the concept of resolvent operators associated with -cocoercive operators to the generalized -cocoercive operators. Some examples are given to justify the definition of generalized -cocoercive operators. Further, we consider a generalized set-valued variational-like inclusion problem involving generalized -cocoercive operator. In terms of the new resolvent operator technique, we give the approximate solution and suggest an iterative algorithm for the generalized set-valued variational-like inclusions. Furthermore, we discuss the convergence criteria of iterative algorithm under some suitable conditions. Our results can be viewed as a generalization of some known results in the literature.
Porcine Models of Accelerated Coronary Atherosclerosis: Role of Diabetes Mellitus and Hypercholesterolemia
Authors: Hamamdzic Damir , Wilensky Robert L.
Published: June 2013

Animal models of atherosclerosis have proven to be an invaluable asset in understanding the pathogenesis of the disease. However, large animal models may be needed in order to assess novel therapeutic approaches to the treatment of atherosclerosis. Porcine models of coronary and peripheral atherosclerosis offer several advantages over rodent models, including similar anatomical size to humans, as well as genetic expression and development of high-risk atherosclerotic lesions which are similar to humans. Here we review the four models of porcine atherosclerosis, including the diabetic/hypercholesterolemic model, Rapacz-familial hypercholesterolemia pig, the (PCSK9) gain-of-function mutant pig model, and the Ossabaw miniature pig model of metabolic syndrome. All four models reliably represent features of human vascular disease.
Immunohistochemiluminescence Detection: A Quantitative Tool in Breast Cancer HER-2 Status Evaluation
Authors: Rêgo Moacyr Jesus Barreto de Melo , Cordeiro Marina Ferraz , Cavalcanti Carmelita de Lima Bezerra , de Carvalho Junior Luiz Bezerra , Beltrão Eduardo Isidoro Carneiro
Published: June 2013

Her-2 status evaluation in breast cancer has prognostic and treatment response value but its interobserver variation among pathologists is a problem since it is not quantitatively assayed. This study presents an immunohistochemiluminescence method to quantify Her-2 in breast cancer. Anti-Her-2 antibody was conjugated to acridinium ester (AE) and used to evaluate/quantify Her-2 status in breast Invasive Ductal Carcinoma (IDC,n= 50) comparing with traditional immunohistochemistry. Anti-HER-2-AE results were expressed in Relative Lights Units (RLU) and showed to be able to distinguish and quantify the differences between the three groups of Her-2 status. 3+ Her-2 status presented the highest RLU (246,982 × 103± 2.061 × 103) compared to 2+ (76,146 × 103± 0.290 × 103), negative (27,415 × 103± 1.445 × 103) and normal tissues (27,064 × 103± 2.060). Status differences were significant between 3+ and 2+ (p= 0.0025); 2+ and negative (p= 0.0003), and +3 and +1 (p= 0.0001) beside this, normal breast control RLU was 27,064 × 103± 2,060 × 103, similar to negative cases. Results showed that anti-HER-2-AE conjugate was effective in breast tumors Her-2 status evaluation, allowing its quantitative establishment to consequently decrease the subjectivity in prognostic and predictive information intrinsic to this test.
An Inventory Model with Price and Quality Dependent Demand Where Some Items Produced Are Defective
Authors: Datta Tapan Kumar
Published: June 2013

This paper analyzes an inventory system for joint determination of product quality and selling price where a fraction of items produced are defective. It is assumed that only a fraction of defective items can be repaired/reworked. The demand rate depends upon both the quality and the selling price of the product. The production rate, unit price, and carrying cost depend upon the quality of the items produced. Quality index is used to determine the quality of the product. An algorithm is provided to solve the model with given values of model parameters. Sensitivity analysis has also been performed.
Mutational Spectrum of Gelsolin and Its Down Regulation Is Associated with Breast Cancer
Authors: Baig Ruqia Mehmood , Mahjabeen Ishrat , Sabir Maimoona , Masood Nosheen , Ali Kashif , Malik Faraz Arshad , Kayani Mahmood Akhtar
Published: June 2013

Cytoskeletal rearrangement occurs in variety of cellular processes and involves a wide spectrum of proteins. Gelsolin super family proteins control actin organization by severing and capping filament ends and nucleating actin assembly. Gelsolin is the founding member of this family and plays important role in pathogenesis of human neoplasia.

This study aimed to investigate the germline mutations and expressional profile of Gelsolin in human breast cancer tissues. For germ line screening PCR-SSCP technique was used while expression was analyzed through quantitative real time PCR. Different types of mutations were observed in Gelsolin coding regions on exons 4, 10, 11, 14 and 15. These mutations include 3 missense nonsynonymous substitution mutations, 2 deletions, 1 insertion and 1 synonymous substitution mutation. Gelsolin transcript level was found significantly lower in breast tumor tissues compared to control samples (p=0.03). Low level of Gelsolin was found in metastatic patients (p=0.002) and patients who died from breast cancer (P=0.03) compared to disease free patients at final follow up. This study shows that level of Gelsolin is down regulated in breast cancer tissues and is linked with metastasis development and death in patients. It is concluded that genetic changes in coding regions of Gelsolin can potentially contribute to genetic instability. These genetic variations and expressional correlation with patient survival may prove to be of significant importance.
Stacked Central Configurations for the Spatial Nine‐Body Problem
Authors: Xia Su , Chunhua Deng
Published: June 2013

We show the existence of the twisted stacked central configurations for the 9‐body problem. More precisely, the position vectors x1, x2, x3, x4, and x5 are at the vertices of a square pyramid Σ; the position vectors x6, x7, x8, and x9 are at the vertices of a square Π.
Association between a Tetranucleotide Repeat Polymorphism of SPAG16 Gene and Cataract in Male Children
Authors: Mehra Shipra , Kapur Suman , Ganesh Suma
Published: June 2013

Purpose. Studies involving genotyping of STR markers at 2q34 have repeatedly found the region to host the disease haplotype for pediatric cataract. Present study investigated the association of D2S2944 marker, in sperm associated antigen 16 (SPAG16) gene and rs2289917 polymorphism, in γ-crystallin B gene, with childhood cataract. Methods. 97 pediatric cataract cases and 110 children with no ocular defects were examined for tetranucleotide repeat marker/SNP using PCR-SSLP/RFLP techniques. Polymorphisms were assessed for association using contingency tables and linkage disequilibrium among alleles of the markers was estimated. Energy-optimization program predicted the secondary structure models of repeats of D2S2944. Results. Seven alleles of D2S2944, with 9–15 “GATA” repeats, were observed. Frequency of the longer allele of D2S2944, ≥(GATA)13 repeats, was 0.73 in cases and 0.56 in controls (P=0.0123). Male children bearing ≥(GATA)13 repeats showed >3-fold higher risk for cataract (CI95% = 1.43–7.00, P=0.0043, Pc=0.0086) as compared to female children (OR=1.19, CI95% = 0.49–2.92, P=0.70). Cases with haplotype—≥(GATA)13 of D2S2944 and “C” allele rs2289917—have a higher risk for pediatric cataract (OR=2.952, CI95% = 1.595~5.463, P=0.000453). >(GATA)13 repeats formed energetically more favorable stem-loop structure. Conclusion. Intragenic microsatellite repeat expansion in SPAG16 gene increases predisposition to pediatric cataract by probably interfering posttranscriptional events and affecting the expression of adjacent lens transparency gene/s in a gender bias manner.
A Spotlight on Chemical Constituents and Pharmacological Activities of Nigella glandulifera Freyn et Sint Seeds
Authors: Boubertakh Besma , Liu Xin-Guang , Cheng Xiao-Lan , Li Ping
Published: June 2013

Plants belonging to the Ranunculaceae family, and particularly their seeds, have been a hot research topic in numerous pharmacognosy laboratories. Nigella glandulifera Freyn et Sint (NG) is one of the promising, but relatively insufficiently studied, plants from this family. In this review, we summarize the recently isolated chemical constituents from the seeds of this plant including alkaloids, flavonol glycosides, isobenzofuranone derivatives, saponins, terpenes, terpenoids, and fatty acids. We put also a spotlight on the recently studied therapeutic potentials of such amazing herb seeds as antidiabetes, melanogenesis inhibition, anticancer, anti‐inflammatory, antithrombosis, and antiplatelet aggregation effects. Herein, we illustrate certain properties and potentials via selected examples, and thus we suggest more studies to confirm the therapeutic hypotheses, find out new compounds, and eventually to discover novel properties.
ADAM 12: A Putative Marker of Oligodendrogliomas?
Authors: Kanakis Dimitrios , Lendeckel Uwe , Theodosiou Paraskevi , Dobrowolny Henrik , Mawrin Christian , Keilhoff Gerburg , Bukowska Alicia , Dietzmann Knut , Bogerts Bernhard , Bernstein Hans-Gert
Published: June 2013

ADAM 12 (meltrin alpha) belongs to a large family of molecules, consisting of members with both disintegrin and metalloproteinase properties. ADAMs have been implicated in several cell physiological processes including cell adhesion, cell fusion, proteolysis and signalling. ADAM 12 is widely expressed, including skeletal muscle, testis, bone, intestine, heart and kidney. In addition, a variety of tumours show elevated expression of ADAM12; among them being breast-, colon-, gastric- and lung-carcinoma. As to the brain, ADAM 12 has been shown previously to be expressed in rat and human oligodendrocytes. However, little is known about the expression of this protease in brain tumours. This study demonstrates the presence of ADAM 12 in non-neoplastic oligodendroglial cells of normal human brain as well as in neoplastic oligodendroglia and minigemistocytes arising from four pure oligodendrogliomas and three mixed oligoastrocytomas. Double stainings revealed a notable preference of ADAM 12 for the oligodendroglial over astroglial components. The results of immunohistochemistry are in accordance with the results obtained from the RT-PCR, which further demonstrated a mild difference concerning the mRNA concentration of ADAM 12 between similar grades of eight astrocytomas and eight oligodendrogliomas (namely four astrocytomas grade II versus four oligodendrogliomas grade II and four astrocytomas grade III versus four oligodendrogliomas grade III). Both cellular immunostaining for ADAM 12 and ADAM 12 mRNA content decrease with higher histologic grade of the tumour. Surprisingly, the latter parameter (ADAM12 mRNA) showed a significant opposite correlation to the degree of histologic tumour malignancy. From our data showing that ADAM 12 is highly expressed in, but not restricted to, oligodendrogliomas, we conclude that ADAM 12 immunohistochemistry may be a helpful tool in the diagnosis of brain tumours.
A Force-Position Control System Based on Soft Tissue under Large Deformation
Authors: Hu Lei , Zhang Jie , Li Changsheng , Cui Yan , Wang Liquan
Published: June 2013

We introduce an extension of the mass-spring model applied to human tissue that can truly reflect the mechanical properties of a living person's tissue under large deformations under pressure by a massage head. The model is used in the force-position control system and helps us to control the massage force more accurately. Parameters of the model were determined according to the experimental results. Simulation results demonstrated that the model succeeded in modeling living tissue under large deformation, and the force-position control system based on the soft tissue model under large deformation achieved higher accuracy than the control system based on the soft tissue model with constant stiffness.
On Cyclic Generalized WeaklyC-Contractions on Partial Metric Spaces
Authors: Karapınar Erdal , Rakocević Vladimir
Published: June 2013

We give new results of a cyclic generalized weaklyC-contraction in partial metric space. The results of this paper extend, generalize, and improve some fixed point theorems in the literature.
Levels of PEDF in Pleural Effusions from Lung Adenocarcinoma and Benign Disease Patients
Authors: Sánchez-Otero Nuria , Blanco-Prieto Sonia , Vázquez-Iglesias Lorena , Cadena María Páez de la , Fernández-Villar Alberto , Botana-Rial María Isabel , Rodríguez-Berrocal Francisco Javier
Published: June 2013

Anti-tumor properties assigned to PEDF, beside its role as an inhibitor of angiogenesis, make it a promising candidate in the search of new biomarkers for malignancy. In this study levels of PEDF were investigated in pleural effusions from lung adenocarcinoma and benign inflammatory disease patients. The mean PEDF concentration in the malignant group was slightly superior to that in patients suffering benign diseases (4.59 μg/mL vs 3.97 μg/mL), although the difference did not reach statistical significance (P0.166). Pleural effusion PEDF levels were not related to gender, age, smoking habit or pleural effusion size. We also investigated the possible relationship of PEDF levels in pleural effusion regarding clinicopathological features. Correlations were found for monocytes (P0.010) and polymorphonuclear leukocytes (P0.023) with PEDF levels in pleural effusion of malignant origin.
Characterisation of C–F Polymer Film Formation on the Air‐Bearing Surface Etched Sidewall of Fluorine‐Based Plasma Interacting with AL2O3–TiC Substrate
Authors: Limcharoen Alonggot , Limsuwan Pichet , Pakpum Chupong , Siangchaew Krisda
Published: June 2013

C–F polymer redeposition is generated on the etched sidewall of the patterned air‐bearing surface (ABS). This C–F polymer is a by‐product from fluorine‐based plasma using a Surface Technology Systems multiplex‐pro air‐bearing etch (ABE). The morphology of the re‐deposition and the composite element was observed by a scanning electron microscope (SEM). The chemical bonding results were characterised via X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy, attenuated total reflected infrared spectroscopy and visible Raman spectroscopy. The purpose of this work is to demonstrate a modification of AlF3 re‐deposition to C–F polymer re‐deposition, which is easily stripped out by an isopropyl alcohol‐based solution. The benefit of this research is the removal of the re‐deposition in the resist strip process without additional cleaning process steps.
Prognostic Role of microRNA-155 in Various Carcinomas: Results from a Meta-Analysis
Authors: He Jing , Zhang Fengmei , Wu Ying , Zhang Wei , Zhu Xiaoli , He Xuelian , Zhao Yuhang , Zhang Wei , Zhao Yulan
Published: June 2013

BACKGROUND: Recent studies have shown that microRNAs (miRNA) have prognostic values in cancers. This meta-analysis seeks to summarize the global predicting role of miR-155 for survival in patients with a variety of carcinomas.

METHODS: Eligible studies were identified through multiple search strategies. Data were extracted from studies investigating the relationship between miR-155 expression and survival in cancer patients. Combined hazard ratios (HRs) of miR-155 for outcome were analyzed.

RESULTS: A total of 16 studies dealing with various carcinomas were included for this meta-analysis. For overall survival, higher miR-155 expression could significantly predict worse outcome with the pooled HR of 2.057 (95% CI: 1.392–3.039). For relapse or progress-free survival, elevated miR-155 was also a significant predictor, with a combined HR of 1.918 (95% CI: 1.311–2.806,). In addition, subgroup analysis showed that higher expression of miR-155 had the trends to predict worse outcome in lung cancer. However, the HRs did not reach the statistical significance.

CONCLUSION: Our findings suggest that miR-155 detection has a prognostic value in cancer patients. Regularly measuring miR-155 expression may be useful in clinical practice.
Terminal Hosoya Polynomial of Line Graphs
Authors: Ramane H. S. , Ganagi A. B. , Narayankar K. P. , Shirkol S. S.
Published: June 2013

The terminal Hosoya polynomial of a graph G is defined as TH(G,λ)=∑k≥1‍dT(G,k)λk, where dT(G,k) is the number of pairs of pendant vertices of G that are at distance k. In this paper we obtain terminal Hosoya polynomial of line graphs.
-Orthomorphisms and -Linear Operators on the Order Dual of an -Algebra Revisited
Authors: Jaber Jamel
Published: June 2013

We give a necessary and sufficient condition on an -algebra for which orthomorphisms, -linear operators, and -orthomorphisms on the order dual are the same class of operators.
OC125, M11 and OV197 Epitopes Are Not Uniformly Distributed in the Tandem-Repeat Region of CA125 and Require the Entire SEA Domain
Authors: Bressan Alessandro , Bozzo Francesca , Maggi Carlo Alberto , Binaschi Monica
Published: June 2013

The human cancer antigen 125 (CA125) is over-expressed in epithelial ovarian cancer cells and it plays a role in the pathogenesis of ovarian cancer. This protein presents a repeat region containing up to sixty tandem repeat units. The anti-CA125 monoclonal antibodies have been previously classified into three groups: two major families, the OC125-like antibodies and M11-like antibodies, and a third group, the OV197-like antibodies. A model in which a single repeat unit contains all the epitopes for these antibodies has been also proposed, even if their exact position is still undetermined. In the present work, the affinities of the monoclonal antibodies, representative of the three families, have been investigated for different CA125-recombinant repeats through Western blot analysis. Different patterns of antibody recognition for the recombinant repeats show that CA125 epitopes are not uniformly distributed in the tandem repeat region of the protein. The minimal region for the recognition of these antibodies has been also individuated in the SEA domain through the subcloning of deleted sequences of the highly recognized repeat-25 (R-25), their expression as recombinant fragments inE. coliand Western blot analysis. Obtained data have been further confirmed by ELISA using the entire R-25 as coating antigen.
Successful Treatment in a Child with Anaplastic Large Cell Lymphoma and Coexistence of Pulmonary Tuberculosis
Authors: Baka Margarita , Doganis Dimitrios , Pourtsidis Apostolos , Tsolia Maria , Bouhoutsou Despina , Varvoutsi Maria , Strantzia Katerina , Kosmidis Helen
Published: June 2013

A 13-year-old girl was admitted to our department with a history of severe pain of her left axilla and fever. On physical examination, a block of lymph nodes in her left axilla, diffuse papular rash, and red-violet swelling of her supraclavicular and subclavian region were noted. Imaging investigations revealed left axillar and supraclavicular lymphadenopathy and a small nodular shade in the upper lobe of her left lung. A biopsy from an axillary lymph node established the diagnosis of anaplastic large cell lymphoma (ALCL), whereas DNA ofMycobacterium tuberculosiswas detected by polymerase chain reaction (PCR) in the same tissue biopsy. Patient was started on chemotherapy for ALCL and achieved remission of all initially involved fields. Nevertheless, two new nodular lesions were detected in the left lower lobe. Biopsy revealed granulomas, and PCR was positive forM. tuberculosis. Our patient received treatment with the combination of isoniazid and rifampin (12 months), pyrazinamide (the first 2 months), and maintenance chemotherapy for her ALCL for one year simultaneously. Four years later, she is disease free for both mycobacterial infection and lymphoma. We are reporting this successful management of mycobacterial infection in a patient with ALCL despite intensive chemotherapy that the patient received at the same time.
Design and Analysis of Ultra-Wideband Split Transmit Virtual Aperture Array for Through-the-Wall Imaging
Authors: Lu Biying , Zhao Yang , Sun Xin , Zhou Zhimin
Published: June 2013

The concept of virtual aperture and the point spread function for designing and characterizing ultra-wideband near-field multiple-input multiple-output active imaging array are investigated. Combining the approach of virtual aperture desynthesis with the monostatic-to-bistatic equivalence theorem, a kind of linear UWB MIMO array, the split transmit virtual aperture (STVA) array, was designed for through-the-wall imaging. Given the virtual aperture, the STVA array is the shortest in physical aperture length. The imaging performance of the designed STVA array in the near field is fully analyzed through both numerical and measured data. The designed STVA array has been successfully applied to imaging moving targets inside buildings.
New Technology for Increasing Through-Life Reliability of Ceramics Components Using Self-Crack-Healing Ability
Authors: Ando Kotoji , Takahashi Koji , Nakao Wataru , Osada Toshio , Iwanaka Kae
Published: June 2013

Structural ceramics are superior to metallic materials in terms of their high-temperature strengths and critical heat proof temperatures. However, compared to metallic materials, ceramics exhibit lower fracture toughness, so they are more sensitive to flaws such as pores and cracks. The shortness considerably decreases the component reliability. To overcome the shortness, in this study, special attention is paid to structural ceramics with self-crack-healing ability. There are several advantages for using a material with self-crack-healing ability. (1) After an efficient machine operation, the materials are able to self-heal the cracks introduced by the machining. (2) The materials are able to self-heal the cracks introduced during service and recover the strength completely at healing temperature. However, ways of organizing the available knowledge to increase the through-life reliability of ceramics components have not been extensively studied. The authors propose a new concept and the corresponding flowchart. This new concept is a promising technique for increasing the through-life reliability of ceramics components with excellent self-crack-healing ability.