bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Herpes Simplex Virus 1 UL51 Gene Product Has Cell Type-Specific Functions in Cell-to-Cell Spread
Authors: Roller Richard J. , Haugo Alison C. , Yang Kui , Baines Joel D.
Published: January 2014

The herpes simplex virus 1 (HSV-1) UL51 gene encodes a 244-amino-acid (aa) palmitoylated protein that is conserved in all herpesviruses. The alphaherpesvirus UL51 (pUL51) protein has been reported to function in nuclear egress and cytoplasmic envelopment. No complete deletion has been generated because of the overlap of the UL51 coding sequence 5′ end with the UL52 promoter sequences, but partial deletions generated in HSV and pseudorabies virus (PrV) suggest an additional function in epithelial cell-to-cell spread. Here we show partial uncoupling of the replication, release, and cell-to-cell spread functions of HSV-1 pUL51 in two ways. Viruses in which aa 73 to 244 were deleted from pUL51 or in which a conserved YXXΦ motif near the N terminus was altered showed cell-specific defects in spread that cannot be accounted for by defects in replication and virus release. Also, a cell line that expresses C-terminally enhanced green fluorescent protein (EGFP)-tagged pUL51 supported normal virus replication and release into the medium but the formation of only small plaques. This cell line also failed to support normal localization of gE to cell junctions. gE and pUL51 partially colocalized in infected cells, and these two proteins could be coimmunoprecipitated from infected cells, suggesting that they can form a complex during infection. The cell-to-cell spread defect associated with the pUL51 mutation was more severe than that associated with gE-null virus, suggesting that pUL51 has gE-independent functions in epithelial cell spread.

IMPORTANCE
Herpesviruses establish and reactivate from lifelong latency in their hosts. When they reactivate, they are able to spread within their hosts despite the presence of a potent immune response that includes neutralizing antibody. This ability is derived in part from a specialized mechanism for virus spread between cells. Cell-to-cell spread is a conserved property of herpesviruses that likely relies on conserved viral genes. An understanding of their function may aid in the design of vaccines and therapeutics. Here we show that one of the conserved viral genes, UL51, has an important role in cell-to-cell spread in addition to its previously demonstrated role in virus assembly. We find that its function depends on the type of cell that is infected, and we show that it interacts with and modulates the function of another viral spread factor, gE.
Fusion Activation through Attachment Protein Stalk Domains Indicates a Conserved Core Mechanism of Paramyxovirus Entry into Cells
Authors: Bose Sayantan , Song Albert S. , Jardetzky Theodore S. , Lamb Robert A.
Published: January 2014

Paramyxoviruses are a large family of membrane-enveloped negative-stranded RNA viruses causing important diseases in humans and animals. Two viral integral membrane glycoproteins (fusion [F] and attachment [HN, H, or G]) mediate a concerted process of host receptor recognition, followed by the fusion of viral and cellular membranes, resulting in viral nucleocapsid entry into the cytoplasm. However, the sequence of events that closely links the timing of receptor recognition by HN, H, or G and the “triggering” interaction of the attachment protein with F is unclear. F activation results in F undergoing a series of irreversible conformational rearrangements to bring about membrane merger and virus entry. By extensive study of properties of multiple paramyxovirus HN proteins, we show that key features of F activation, including the F-activating regions of HN proteins, flexibility within this F-activating region, and changes in globular head-stalk interactions are highly conserved. These results, together with functionally active “headless” mumps and Newcastle disease virus HN proteins, provide insights into the F-triggering process. Based on these data and very recently published data for morbillivirus H and henipavirus G proteins, we extend our recently proposed “stalk exposure model” to other paramyxoviruses and propose an “induced fit” hypothesis for F-HN/H/G interactions as conserved core mechanisms of paramyxovirus-mediated membrane fusion.

IMPORTANCEParamyxoviruses are a large family of membrane-enveloped negative-stranded RNA viruses causing important diseases in humans and animals. Two viral integral membrane glycoproteins (fusion [F] and attachment [HN, H, or G]) mediate a concerted process of host receptor recognition, followed by the fusion of viral and cellular membranes. We describe here the molecular mechanism by which HN activates the F protein such that virus-cell fusion is controlled and occurs at the right time and the right place. We extend our recently proposed “stalk exposure model” first proposed for parainfluenza virus 5 to other paramyxoviruses and propose an “induced fit” hypothesis for F-HN/H/G interactions as conserved core mechanisms of paramyxovirus-mediated membrane fusion.
Efficacy and Mechanism of a Glycoside Compound Inhibiting Abnormal Prion Protein Formation in Prion-Infected Cells: Implications of Interferon and Phosphodiesterase 4D-Interacting Protein
Authors: Nishizawa Keiko , Oguma Ayumi , Kawata Maki , Sakasegawa Yuji , Teruya Kenta , Doh-ura Katsumi
Published: January 2014

A new type of antiprion compound, Gly-9, was found to inhibit abnormal prion protein formation in prion-infected neuroblastoma cells, in a prion strain-independent manner, when the cells were treated for more than 1 day. It reduced the intracellular prion protein level and significantly modified mRNA expression levels of genes of two types: interferon-stimulated genes were downregulated after more than 2 days of treatment, and the phosphodiesterase 4D-interacting protein gene, a gene involved in microtubule growth, was upregulated after more than 1 day of treatment. A supplement of interferon given to the cells partly restored the abnormal prion protein level but did not alter the normal prion protein level. This interferon action was independent of the Janus activated kinase-signal transducer and activator of transcription signaling pathway. Therefore, the changes in interferon-stimulated genes might be a secondary effect of Gly-9 treatment. However, gene knockdown of phosphodiesterase 4D-interacting protein restored or increased both the abnormal prion protein level and the normal prion protein level, without transcriptional alteration of the prion protein gene. It also altered the localization of abnormal prion protein accumulation in the cells, indicating that phosphodiesterase 4D-interacting protein might affect prion protein levels by altering the trafficking of prion protein-containing structures. Interferon and phosphodiesterase 4D-interacting protein had no direct mutual link, demonstrating that they regulate abnormal prion protein levels independently. Although the
in vivo
efficacy of Gly-9 was limited, the findings for Gly-9 provide insights into the regulation of abnormal prion protein in cells and suggest new targets for antiprion compounds.

IMPORTANCE
This report describes our study of the efficacy and potential mechanism underlying the antiprion action of a new antiprion compound with a glycoside structure in prion-infected cells, as well as the efficacy of the compound in prion-infected animals. The study revealed involvements of two factors in the compound's mechanism of action: interferon and a microtubule nucleation activator, phosphodiesterase 4D-interacting protein. In particular, phosphodiesterase 4D-interacting protein was suggested to be important in regulating the trafficking or fusion of prion protein-containing vesicles or structures in cells. The findings of the study are expected to be useful not only for the elucidation of cellular regulatory mechanisms of prion protein but also for the implication of new targets for therapeutic development.
Hybrid surgery for dural arteriovenous fistula in the neurosurgical hybrid operating suite
Authors: Shen Shih-Chieh , Tsuei Yuang-Seng , Chen Wen-Hsien , Shen Chiung-Chyi
Published: January 2014

Treatment of a dural arteriovenous fistula (AVF), which is difficult to access by either the surgical or endovascular approach, is challenging. A hybrid technique, combining a microsurgical approach and endovascular embolization, can provide less invasive management of dural AVFs in a modern neurosurgical hybrid operating suite. We present a case of intracerebral hemorrhage in the left cerebellum secondary to dural AVF, Cognard type IV with numerous tiny feeders from the ascending pharyngeal artery branches. No adequate arterial or venous route for endovascular embolization was found by neuroangiography. The hybrid technique, combining keyhole pterional craniotomy and embolization with n-butyl cyanoacrylate glue injection via direct cannulation of the periclival venous plexus, succeeded in obliterating the dural AVF. Intraoperative angiography showed successful embolization of the dural AVF without any complication. This report illustrates the usefulness of the neurosurgical hybrid operating suite for the treatment of difficult dural AVFs.
Undiagnosed intussusception in an adult ‘small and large bowel’
Authors: Morrison Christa , Costello Jonathan
Published: January 2014

Two cases of adult intussusception (large bowel and small bowel) are presented highlighting the challenges posed by their often innocuous presentation in addition to significant morbidity resulting from delayed diagnosis.
Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease: a practical approach to treatment
Authors: Dyson J K , Anstee Q M , McPherson S
Published: January 2014

Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) affects up to a third of the population in many developed countries. Between 10% and 30% of patients with NAFLD have non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) that can progress to cirrhosis. There are metabolic risk factors common to both NAFLD and cardiovascular disease, so patients with NASH have an increased risk of liver-related and cardiovascular death. Management of patients with NAFLD depends largely on the stage of disease, emphasising the importance of careful risk stratification. There are four main areas to focus on when thinking about management strategies in NAFLD: lifestyle modification, targeting the components of the metabolic syndrome, liver-directed pharmacotherapy for high risk patients and managing the complications of cirrhosis.
Return of visual function after bilateral visual loss following flow diversion embolization of a giant ophthalmic aneurysm due to both reduction in mass effect and reduction in aneurysm pulsation
Authors: Patel Saharsh , Fargen Kyle M , Peters Keith , Krall Peter , Samy Hazem , Hoh Brian L
Published: January 2014

Large and giant paraclinoid aneurysms are challenging to treat by either surgical or endovascular means. Visual dysfunction secondary to optic nerve compression and its relationship with aneurysm size, pulsation and thrombosis is poorly understood. We present a patient with a giant paraclinoid aneurysm resulting in bilateral visual loss that worsened following placement of a Pipeline Embolization Device and adjunctive coiling. Visual worsening occurred in conjunction with aneurysm thrombosis, increase in maximal aneurysm diameter and new adjacent edema. Her visual function spontaneously improved in a delayed fashion to better than pre-procedure, in conjunction with reduced aneurysmal mass effect, size and pulsation artifact on MRI. This report documents detailed ophthalmologic and MRI evidence for the role of thrombosis, aneurysm mass effect and aneurysm pulsation as causative etiologies for both cranial nerve dysfunction and delayed resolution following flow diversion treatment of large cerebral aneurysms.
Ecosite-based predictive modeling of black spruce (Picea mariana) wood quality attributes in boreal Ontario
Authors: Pokharel Bharat , Dech Jeffery P. , Groot Arthur , Pitt Doug
Published: January 2014

Enhanced forest resources inventory systems delineate and define polygons based on fundamental ecological units such as ecosites, which are standard combinations of vegetation and substrate types. Our study objective was to model wood quality characteristics of individual black spruce (Picea mariana (Mill.) B.S.P.) trees across a representative boreal forest landscape in northeastern Ontario, Canada, based on relationships to ecosite and other stand-level variables. A total of 127 large (12 mm) increment core samples were extracted at breast height from dominant or co-dominant black spruce trees in forest stands representing a gradient from dry sandy to wet mineral and organic ecosites. Sample cores were prepared, processed, and analyzed using standard SilviScan protocols. Hierarchical classification models were then fitted using Random Forests to predict density and latewood percentage for black spruce stems at a reference age of 50 years. These models each explained over 32% of variance, with estimated root mean squared errors of 40.4 kg·m−3 and 5.6% for density and latewood percentage, respectively. Among tree-, site-, and stand-level covariates, ecosite group was the most important predictive variable. Knowledge of ecosite – wood quality relationships could support efficient planning for black spruce management by including an indication of potential use as a modeled variable in a forest inventory system.
Addressing integration error for polygonal finite elements through polynomial projections: A patch test connection
Authors: Talischi Cameron , Paulino Glaucio H.
Published: January 2014

Polygonal finite elements generally do not pass the patch test as a result of quadrature error in the evaluation of weak form integrals. In this work, we examine the consequences of lack of polynomial consistency and show that it can lead to a deterioration of convergence of the finite element solutions. We propose a general remedy, inspired by techniques in the recent literature of mimetic finite differences, for restoring consistency and thereby ensuring the satisfaction of the patch test and recovering optimal rates of convergence. The proposed approach, based on polynomial projections of the basis functions, allows for the use of moderate number of integration points and brings the computational cost of polygonal finite elements closer to that of the commonly used linear triangles and bilinear quadrilaterals. Numerical studies of a two-dimensional scalar diffusion problem accompany the theoretical considerations.
EFFECT OF ANNEALING ON THE PROPERTIES OF VANADIUM PENTOXIDE FILMS PREPARED BY SOL–GEL METHOD
Authors: LIU YAQIANG , DU XUELIAN , LIU XUEQIN
Published: January 2014

The vanadium pentoxide ( V 2 O 5) films were obtained by using sol–gel procedure and then were annealed at different temperature in air. The effect of different annealing temperatures on the composition, the microstructure, the surface morphology and the optical properties of the films were characterized by methods such as by X-ray diffraction, Raman spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy and spectral transmittance. The results revealed that the film annealed at 150°C has amorphous structure and dense with a smooth surface and the films annealed at 300°C and 450°C have a polycrystalline V 2 O 5 structure with preferred growth orientation along (001) planes, the c-axis and perpendicular to the silicon substrate surface. From the spectral transmittance we determined the absorption edge using the Tauc plot. The results indicated that optical bandgap of V 2 O 5 thin films decreased with annealing temperature.
DRESSED QUANTUM GRAPHS WITH OPTICAL NONLINEARITIES APPROACHING THE FUNDAMENTAL LIMIT
Authors: LYTEL RICK , KUZYK MARK G.
Published: January 2014

In this paper, we dress bare quantum graphs with finite delta function potentials and calculate optical nonlinearities that are found to match the fundamental limits set by potential optimization. We show that structures whose first hyperpolarizability is near the maximum are well described by only three states, the so-called three-level Ansatz, while structures with the largest second hyperpolarizability require four states. We analyze a very large set of configurations for graphs with quasi-quadratic energy spectra and show how they exhibit better response than bare graphs through exquisite optimization of the shape of the eigenfunctions enabled by the existence of the finite potentials. We also discover an exception to the universal scaling properties of the three-level model parameters and trace it to the observation that a greater number of levels are required to satisfy the sum rules even when the three-level Ansatz is satisfied and the first hyperpolarizability is at its maximum value, as specified by potential optimization. This exception in the universal scaling properties of nonlinear optical structures at the limit is traced to the discontinuity in the gradient of the eigenfunctions at the location of the delta potential. This is the first time that dressed quantum graphs have been devised and solved for their nonlinear response, and it is the first analytical model of a confined dynamic system with a simple potential energy that achieves the fundamental limits.
DEVICE FOR MEASURING THE CIRCULAR DICHROISM SPECTRUM IN REAL TIME
Authors: MARGARYAN HAKOB , HOVHANNISYAN DAVID , HAKOBYAN NUNE , SARGSYAN TIGRAN , GASPARYAN PETROS , POKHSRARYAN DAVID , TABIRIAN NELSON
Published: January 2014

In this paper, a device and technique for circular dichroism (CD) recording in the fixed spectral range and in real time are developed. In CD spectroscopy the requirement for precision measurements of the light intensity is one thousandth of a percent. In order to expand the dynamic range the control of data accumulation time is provided. Two NMOS sensor linear arrays provide an excellent linearity of response. The basic functional unit of the proposed device is a circular diffraction waveplate (CDW). CDW analytical and numerical models are given.
Utility indifference pricing of convertible bonds
Authors: Liu Jian , Tao Mengxian , Ma Chaoqun , Wen Fenghua
Published: January 2014

We propose a pricing model for convertible bonds based on the utility-indifference method and get access to the empirical results by use of Information Technology. By using the stochastic control theory, the general expression of utility indifference price on convertible bonds is obtained under the CIR interest rate model. Furthermore, using the proposed theoretical model, we present an empirical pricing study of China's market, using three convertible bonds and more than 70 months of daily market prices. The parameters value is estimated by the maximum likelihood method, and the prices of convertible bonds are simulated by the Monte Carlo approach. The empirical results indicate that the theoretical prices are higher than the actual market prices 0.24–4.58%, and the utility indifference prices are better than the Black–Scholes (BS) prices.
Second- and First-Order Optimality Conditions in Vector Optimization
Authors: Ivanov Vsevolod I.
Published: January 2014

In this paper, we obtain second- and first-order optimality conditions of Kuhn–Tucker type and Fritz John one for weak efficiency in the vector problem with inequality constraints. In the necessary conditions, we suppose that the objective function and the active constraints are continuously differentiable. We introduce notions of KTSP-invex problem and second-order KTSP-invex one. We obtain that the vector problem is (second-order) KTSP-invex if and only if for every triple [Formula: see text] with Lagrange multipliers [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text] for the objective function and constraints, respectively, which satisfies the (second-order) necessary optimality conditions, the pair [Formula: see text] is a saddle point of the scalar Lagrange function with a fixed multiplier [Formula: see text]. We introduce notions second-order KT-pseudoinvex-I, second-order KT-pseudoinvex-II, second-order KT-invex problems. We prove that every second-order Kuhn–Tucker stationary point is a weak global Pareto minimizer (global Pareto minimizer) if and only if the problem is second-order KT-pseudoinvex-I (KT-pseudoinvex-II). It is derived that every second-order Kuhn–Tucker stationary point is a global solution of the weighting problem if and only if the vector problem is second-order KT-invex.
Accuracy of continuum electrostatic calculations based on three common dielectric boundary definitions
Authors: Onufriev Alexey V. , Aguilar Boris
Published: January 2014

We investigate the influence of three common definitions of the solute/solvent dielectric boundary (DB) on the accuracy of the electrostatic solvation energy ΔG el computed within the Poisson–Boltzmann (PB) and the generalized Born (GB) models of implicit solvation. The test structures include small molecules, peptides and small proteins; explicit solvent ΔG el are used as accuracy reference. For common atomic radii sets BONDI, PARSE (and ZAP9 for small molecules) the use of van der Waals (vdW) DB results, on average, in considerably larger errors in ΔG el than the molecular surface (MS) DB. The optimal probe radius ρw for which the MS DB yields the most accurate ΔG el varies considerably between structure types. The solvent accessible surface (SAS) DB becomes optimal at ρw ~ 0.2Å(exact value is sensitive to the structure and atomic radii), at which point the average accuracy of ΔG el is comparable to that of the MS-based boundary. The geometric equivalence of SAS to vdW surface based on the same atomic radii uniformly increased by ρw gives the corresponding optimal vdW DB. For small molecules, the optimal vdW DB based on BONDI +0.2 Å radii can yield ΔG el estimates at least as accurate as those based on the optimal MS DB. Also, in small molecules, pairwise charge–charge interactions computed with the optimal vdW DB are virtually equal to those computed with the MS DB, suggesting that in this case the two boundaries are practically equivalent by the electrostatic energy criteria. In structures other than small molecules, the optimal vdW and MS dielectric boundaries are not equivalent: the respective pairwise electrostatic interactions in the presence of solvent can differ by upto 5 kcal/mol for individual atomic pairs in small proteins, even when the total ΔG el are equal. For small proteins, the average decrease in pairwise electrostatic interactions resulting from the switch from optimal MS to optimal vdW DB definition can be mimicked within the MS DB definition by doubling of the solute dielectric constant. However, the use of the higher interior dielectric does not eliminate the large individual deviations between pairwise interactions computed within the two DB definitions. It is argued that while the MS-based definition of the DB is more physically correct in some types of practical calculations, the choice is not so clear in some other common scenarios.
ASSESSING TECHNOLOGY DIFFERENCES IN ELECTRONIC AND MOBILE PAYMENT SYSTEMS AMONG DEVELOPED AND DEVELOPING COUNTRIES
Authors: MATHEW MARY , MAGNIER-WATANABE REMY , PRATHEEBA S. , BALAKRISHNAN N.
Published: January 2014

This paper examines 45 current electronic and mobile payment systems in developed and developing countries. First, each payment technology was assessed and classified as belonging to one of the several major categories consisting of SMS, WAP, USSD, NFC (RFID), Smart Card, Internet and IVR. Then, a technology prevalence matrix drawn from the previous stage was used as an input for sub-sample factor analyses. SMS, IVR and PC-based payment technologies were found to be more prevalent in developing countries, while smart card appeared most popular in developed countries. This contrast suggests that developing countries may have bypassed some established technologies and leapfrogged to mobile EPS instead. Factor analyses were run for each group and the first factor shows some differences in the main pattern of EPS for developing and developed countries. Mobile and PC-based technologies stand out when compared with NFC and smart card technologies for EPS.
STRONG TRACES FOR AVERAGED SOLUTIONS OF HETEROGENEOUS ULTRA-PARABOLIC TRANSPORT EQUATIONS
Authors: ALEKSIĆ JELENA , MITROVIĆ DARKO
Published: January 2014

We prove that if traceability conditions are fulfilled then a weak solution h ∈ L∞(ℝ+× ℝd× ℝ) to the ultra-parabolic transport equation [Formula: see text] is such that for every [Formula: see text], the velocity averaged quantity ∫ℝh(t, x, λ) ρ(λ)dλ admits the strong [Formula: see text]-limit as t → 0, i.e. there exist [Formula: see text] and set E ⊂ ℝ+of full measure such that for every [Formula: see text], [Formula: see text] As a corollary, under the traceability conditions, we prove the existence of strong traces for entropy solutions to ultra-parabolic equations in heterogeneous media.
DECAY RATES FOR THE SHIFTED WAVE EQUATION ON A SYMMETRIC SPACE OF NONCOMPACT TYPE
Authors: ALMADA CARLOS
Published: January 2014

We derive L∞–L1 decay rate estimates for solutions of the shifted wave equation on certain symmetric spaces (M, g). The Cauchy problem for the shifted wave operator on these spaces was studied by Helgason, who obtained a closed form for its solution. Our results extend to this new context the classical estimates for the wave equation in ℝn. Then, following an idea from Klainerman, we introduce a new norm based on Lie derivatives with respect to Killing fields on M and we derive an estimate for the case that n = dim M is odd.
ON BOUNDARY CONDITIONS FOR FIRST-ORDER SYMMETRIC HYPERBOLIC SYSTEMS WITH CONSTRAINTS
Authors: TARFULEA NICOLAE
Published: January 2014

The Cauchy problem for many first-order symmetric hyperbolic (FOSH) systems is constraint preserving, i.e. the solution satisfies certain spatial differential constraints whenever the initial data does. Frequently, artificial space cut-offs are performed for such evolution systems, usually out of the necessity for finite computational domains. However, it may easily happen that boundary conditions at the artificial boundary for such a system lead to an initial boundary value problem which, while well-posed, does not preserve the constraints. Here we consider the problem of finding constraint-preserving boundary conditions for constrained FOSH systems in the well-posed class of maximal non-negative boundary conditions. Based on a characterization of maximal non-negative boundary conditions, we discuss a systematic technique for finding such boundary conditions that preserve the constraints, pending that the constraints satisfy a FOSH system themselves. We exemplify this technique by analyzing a system of wave equations in a first-order formulation subject to divergence constraints.
HYPERBOLIC BALANCE LAWS WITH ENTROPY ON A CURVED SPACETIME: THE WEAK–STRONG UNIQUENESS THEORY
Authors: LEFLOCH PHILIPPE G.
Published: January 2014

We are interested in nonlinear partial differential equations of hyperbolic type, written as first-order balance laws posed on a curved spacetime, whose unknown is typically a section of the bundle of future-oriented, timelike vectors. We are especially interested in dealing with systems and solutions with low regularity and, to this end, we introduce here the notion of "strictly convex entropy field". We then prove that a system of balance laws endowed with such an entropy admits a symmetrization which, however, may be "degenerate" if the entropy is not uniformly convex or if the constitutive laws defining the balance laws have limited regularity. Next, we establish a weak–strong uniqueness and stability theorem for the initial value problem associated with balance laws endowed with a strictly convex entropy field. We compare two solutions with limited regularity: on the one hand, a continuous solution that need not be Lipschitz continuous and, on the other hand, a weak solution that satisfies an "entropy inequality". Finally, we apply our theory to the Euler system for compressible fluid flows on a curved spacetime, and we exhibit an entropy field, which is strictly convex but fails to be uniformly convex as vacuum is approached. This leads us to a uniqueness theorem for (both the relativistic and non-relativistic versions of) the Euler system, which applies to a continuous solution with vacuum and an entropy weak solution with vacuum.
Spatial patterns created by cross-diffusion for a three-species food chain model
Authors: Tian Canrong , Ling Zhi , Lin Zhigui
Published: January 2014

This paper deals with the stability analysis to a three-species food chain model with cross-diffusion, the results of which show that there is no Turing instability but cross-diffusion makes the model instability possible. We then show that the spatial patterns are spotted patterns by using numerical simulations. In order to understand why the spatial patterns happen, the existence of the nonhomogeneous steady states is investigated. Finally, using the Leray–Schauder theory, we demonstrate that cross-diffusion creates nonhomogeneous stationary patterns.
Treatment of cutaneous lichen planus with ALA-mediated topical photodynamic therapy
Authors: Fan Zhi-Xia , Zhang Ling-Lin , Wang Hong-Wei , Wang Pei-Ru , Huang Zheng , Wang Xiu-Li
Published: January 2014

Purpose: To evaluate the effectiveness of topical 5-aminolevulinic acid (ALA)-mediated photodynamic therapy (PDT) for the treatment of cutaneous lichen planus (LP). Methods: A total of 17 symptomatic LP lesions in 7 Chinese patients were assessed. ALA cream (10%) was applied topically to LP lesions for 3 h. The lesions were irradiated with a 635 nm diode laser at the dose level of 100 J/cm2. The treatment was repeated at two-week intervals. Clinical assessment was conducted before each treatment. Follow-up was performed once a month for up to six months. Results: Lesions showed significant improvement after one to four courses of treatments. Complete response was achieved in 13 lesions (five patients) and partial remission in four lesions (two patients). The complete response rate was 71%. There was no significant side effects except the feeling of pain that most patients could tolerate. Follow-up of five patients who achieved complete response showed no signs of recurrence. Conclusion: Topical ALA PDT is effective in the treatment of cutaneous LP.
Electrical conductivity and capacitance spectra of Bi1.37Sm0.13Zn0.92Nb1.50O6.92 pyrochlore ceramic in the range of 0–3 GHz
Authors: Qasrawi A. F. , Bzour Faten M. , Nazzal Eman O. , Mergen A.
Published: January 2014

In this work, the electrical properties of samarium-doped bismuth niobium zinc oxide ( Sm -doped BZN ) pyrochlore ceramics are investigated by means of temperature dependent electrical conductivity and capacitance spectroscopy in the frequency range of 0–3 GHz. It was observed that the novel dielectric Sm - BZN ceramic exhibits a temperature and electric field dependent dielectric breakdown. When measured at 300 K, the breakdown electric field is 1.12 kV/cm and when heated the breakdown temperature is ~ 420 K. The pyrochlore is thermally active above 440 K with conductivity activation energy of 1.37 eV. In addition, the room temperature capacitance spectra reflected a resonance–antiresonance switching property at 53 MHz when subjected to an AC signal of low power of 5 dBm. Furthermore, when the Sm - BZN ceramics are used as microwave cavity and tested in the frequency range of 1.0–3.0 GHz, the cavity behaves as low pass filter with wide tunability up to a frequency of 1.91 GHz. At this frequency it behaves as a band rejection filter that blocks waves of 1.91 GHz and 2.57 GHz frequencies. These properties of the Sm -doped BZN are promising as they indicate the usability of the ceramics in digital electronic circuits as resonant microwave cavities suitable for the production of low pass/rejection band filters.
Reversible phase transformation-type layer shape electrolyte based on POM and quaternary ammonium salt
Authors: Wu Xuefei , Li Yunyan , Wu Qingyin , Ding Hong , Yan Wenfu
Published: January 2014

A novel kind of organic–inorganic layer shape material, polyoxymetalates (POM)-type ionic liquid (IL) with Keggin structure and simple quaternary ammonium salt, (TOAMe)4PW11VO40 (trioctylmethylammonium = TOAMe,…) is synthesized and characterized by IR, UV, X-ray diffraction (XRD), TG–DTA. Its electrochemical property was investigated by cyclic voltammgram. Research results released the vanadium and the POM structure in the compound can process reduction in DMSO, which is unlikely in water solution as a simple hydrated ion because water will protonize substrate.
THE DOMINATION NUMBER OF STRONG PRODUCT OF DIRECTED CYCLES
Authors: CAI HUIPING , LIU JUAN , QIAN LINGZHI
Published: January 2014

Let γ(D) denote the domination number of a digraph D and let Cm ⊗ Cn denote the strong product of Cm and Cn, the directed cycles of length m, n ≥ 2. In this paper, we determine the exact values [Formula: see text] Furthermore, we give a lower bound and an upper bound of γ(Cm1 ⊗ Cm2 ⊗ ⋯ ⊗ Cmn) and obtain that [Formula: see text] when at least n-2 integers of {m1, m2, …, mn} are even (because of the isomorphism, we assume that m3, m4, …, mn are even).
VAPOR REFRIGERANT INJECTION TECHNIQUES FOR HEAT PUMP SYSTEMS: THE LATEST LITERATURE REVIEW AND DISCUSSION
Authors: ROH CHUL WOO , YOO JIN WOO , KIM MIN SOO
Published: January 2014

This paper reviews the latest and major research on vapor refrigerant injection techniques. Various vapor refrigerant injection techniques are discussed and compared. Compared to the basic vapor injection (VI) cycle, double-expansion VI cycle, accumulator-VI cycle and the VI cycle in a cascade system are briefly explained. Studies about these various VI cycles do not only prove the performance of VI cycles, but also show variations of VI cycles. Discussions about the fundamental issues of the VI cycle are also presented.
Elevated cAMP increases aquaporin-3 plasma membrane diffusion
Authors: Marlar Saw , Arnspang Eva C. , Koffman Jennifer S. , Løcke Else-Merete , Christensen Birgitte M. , Nejsum Lene N.
Published: January 2014

Regulated urine concentration takes place in the renal collecting duct upon arginine vasopressin (AVP) stimulation, where subapical vesicles containing aquaporin-2 (AQP2) are inserted into the apical membrane instantly increasing water reabsorption and urine concentration. The reabsorped water exits via basolateral AQP3 and AQP4. Upon long-term stimulation with AVP or during thirst, expression levels of both AQP2 and AQP3 are increased; however, there is so far no evidence for short-term AVP regulation of AQP3 or AQP4. To facilitate the increase in transepithelial water transport, AQP3 may be short-term regulated via changes in protein-protein interactions, incorporation into lipid rafts, and/or changes in steady-state turnover, which could result in changes in the diffusion behavior of AQP3. Thus we measured AQP3 diffusion coefficients upon stimulation with the AVP mimic forskolin to reveal if AQP3 could be short-term regulated by AVP. k-Space image correlation spectroscopy (kICS) analysis of time-lapse image sequences of basolateral enhanced green fluorescent protein-tagged AQP3 (AQP3-EGFP) revealed that the forskolin-mediated elevation of cAMP increased the diffusion coefficient by 58% from 0.0147 ± 0.0082 μm2/s (control) to 0.0232 ± 0.0085 μm2/s (forskolin, P < 0.05). Quantum dot-conjugated antibody labeling also revealed a significant increase in AQP3 diffusion upon forskolin treatment by 44% [0.0104 ± 0.0040 μm2/s (control) vs. 0.0150 ± 0.0016 μm2/s (forskolin, P < 0.05)]. Immunoelectron microscopy showed no obvious difference in AQP3-EGFP expression levels or localization in the plasma membrane upon forskolin stimulation. Thus AQP3-EGFP diffusion is altered upon increased cAMP, which may correspond to basolateral adaptations in response to the increased apical water readsorption.
A-kinase anchoring proteins contribute to loss of E-cadherin and bronchial epithelial barrier by cigarette smoke
Authors: Oldenburger Anouk , Poppinga Wilfred J. , Kos Fleur , de Bruin Harold G. , Rijks Wolter F. , Heijink Irene H. , Timens Wim , Meurs Herman , Maarsingh Harm , Schmidt Martina
Published: January 2014

Airway epithelium, which forms the first barrier towards environmental insults, is disturbed by cigarette smoking, a major risk factor for developing chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). A-kinase anchoring proteins (AKAP) maintain endothelial barrier function and coordinate subcellular localization of protein kinase A (PKA). However, the role of AKAPs in epithelial barrier function is unknown. We studied the role of AKAPs in regulating human bronchial epithelial (Hogg JC, Timens W. Annu Rev Pathol 4: 435–459, 2009; HBE) barrier. Cigarette smoke extract (CSE) reduced barrier function in 16HBE cells and the expression of the adhesion molecule E-cadherin specifically at the cell membrane. In addition, CSE reduced the protein expression of the AKAP family member AKAP9 at the cell membrane. The expression of AKAP5 and AKAP12 was unaffected by CSE. AKAP9 interacted and colocalized with E-cadherin at the cell membrane, suggesting that the reduction of both proteins may be related. Interestingly, disruption of AKAP-PKA interactions by st-Ht31 prevented the CSE-induced reduction of E-cadherin and AKAP9 protein expression and subsequent loss of barrier function. Silencing of AKAP9 reduced the functional epithelial barrier and prevented the ability of st-Ht31 to restore membrane localization of E-cadherin. Our data suggest the possibility of a specific role for AKAP9 in the maintenance of the epithelial barrier. E-cadherin, but not AKAP9, protein expression was reduced in lung tissue from COPD patients compared with controls. However, AKAP9 mRNA expression was decreased in primary bronchial epithelial cells from current smokers compared with non/ex-smokers. In conclusion, our results indicate that AKAP proteins, most likely AKAP9, maintain the bronchial epithelial barrier by regulating the E-cadherin expression at the cell membrane.
Regulation of body temperature and brown adipose tissue thermogenesis by bombesin receptor subtype-3
Authors: Lateef Dalya M. , Abreu-Vieira Gustavo , Xiao Cuiying , Reitman Marc L.
Published: January 2014

Bombesin receptor subtype-3 (BRS-3) regulates energy homeostasis, with Brs3 knockout ( Brs3−/y) mice being hypometabolic, hypothermic, and hyperphagic and developing obesity. We now report that the reduced body temperature is more readily detected if body temperature is analyzed as a function of physical activity level and light/dark phase. Physical activity level correlated best with body temperature 4 min later. The Brs3−/ymetabolic phenotype is not due to intrinsically impaired brown adipose tissue function or in the communication of sympathetic signals from the brain to brown adipose tissue, since Brs3−/ymice have intact thermogenic responses to stress, acute cold exposure, and β3-adrenergic activation, and Brs3−/ymice prefer a cooler environment. Treatment with the BRS-3 agonist MK-5046 increased brown adipose tissue temperature and body temperature in wild-type but not Brs3−/ymice. Intrahypothalamic infusion of MK-5046 increased body temperature. These data indicate that the BRS-3 regulation of body temperature is via a central mechanism, upstream of sympathetic efferents. The reduced body temperature in Brs3−/ymice is due to altered regulation of energy homeostasis affecting higher center regulation of body temperature, rather than an intrinsic defect in brown adipose tissue.
Insulin treatment attenuates renal ADAM17 and ACE2 shedding in diabetic Akita mice
Authors: Salem Esam S. B. , Grobe Nadja , Elased Khalid M.
Published: January 2014

Angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) is located in several tissues and is highly expressed in renal proximal tubules, where it degrades the vasoconstrictor angiotensin II (ANG II) to ANG-(1–7). Accumulating evidence supports protective roles of ACE2 in several disease states, including diabetic nephropathy. A disintegrin and metalloprotease (ADAM) 17 is involved in the shedding of several transmembrane proteins, including ACE2. Our previous studies showed increased renal ACE2, ADAM17 expression, and urinary ACE2 in type 2 diabetic mice (Chodavarapu H, Grobe N, Somineni HK, Salem ES, Madhu M, Elased KM. PLoS One 8: e62833, 2013). The aim of the present study was to determine the effect of insulin on ACE2 shedding and ADAM17 in type 1 diabetic Akita mice. Results demonstrate increased renal ACE2 and ADAM17 expression and increased urinary ACE2 fragments (≈70 kDa) and albumin excretion in diabetic Akita mice. Immunostaining revealed colocalization of ACE2 with ADAM17 in renal tubules. Renal proximal tubular cells treated with ADAM17 inhibitor showed reduced ACE2 shedding into the media, confirming ADAM17-mediated shedding of ACE2. Treatment of Akita mice with insulin implants for 20 wk normalized hyperglycemia and decreased urinary ACE2 and albumin excretion. Insulin also normalized renal ACE2 and ADAM17 but had no effect on tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinase 3 (TIMP3) protein expression. There was a positive linear correlation between urinary ACE2 and albuminuria, blood glucose, plasma creatinine, glucagon, and triglycerides. This is the first report showing an association between hyperglycemia, cardiovascular risk factors, and increased shedding of urinary ACE2 in diabetic Akita mice. Urinary ACE2 could be used as a biomarker for diabetic nephropathy and as an index of intrarenal ACE2 status.
Measurement of renal tissue oxygenation with blood oxygen level-dependent MRI and oxygen transit modeling
Authors: Zhang Jeff L. , Morrell Glen , Rusinek Henry , Warner Lizette , Vivier Pierre-Hugues , Cheung Alfred K. , Lerman Lilach O. , Lee Vivian S.
Published: January 2014

Blood oxygen level-dependent (BOLD) MRI data of kidney, while indicative of tissue oxygenation level (Po2), is in fact influenced by multiple confounding factors, such as R2, perfusion, oxygen permeability, and hematocrit. We aim to explore the feasibility of extracting tissue Po2 from renal BOLD data. A method of two steps was proposed: first, a Monte Carlo simulation to estimate blood oxygen saturation (SHb) from BOLD signals, and second, an oxygen transit model to convert SHb to tissue Po2. The proposed method was calibrated and validated with 20 pigs (12 before and after furosemide injection) in which BOLD-derived tissue Po2 was compared with microprobe-measured values. The method was then applied to nine healthy human subjects (age: 25.7 ± 3.0 yr) in whom BOLD was performed before and after furosemide. For the 12 pigs before furosemide injection, the proposed model estimated renal tissue Po2 with errors of 2.3 ± 5.2 mmHg (5.8 ± 13.4%) in cortex and −0.1 ± 4.5 mmHg (1.7 ± 18.1%) in medulla, compared with microprobe measurements. After injection of furosemide, the estimation errors were 6.9 ± 3.9 mmHg (14.2 ± 8.4%) for cortex and 2.6 ± 4.0 mmHg (7.7 ± 11.5%) for medulla. In the human subjects, BOLD-derived medullary Po2 increased from 16.0 ± 4.9 mmHg (SHb: 31 ± 11%) at baseline to 26.2 ± 3.1 mmHg (SHb: 53 ± 6%) at 5 min after furosemide injection, while cortical Po2 did not change significantly at ∼58 mmHg (SHb: 92 ± 1%). Our proposed method, validated with a porcine model, appears promising for estimating tissue Po2 from renal BOLD MRI data in human subjects.
Reorganization of muscle synergies during multidirectional reaching in the horizontal plane with experimental muscle pain
Authors: Muceli Silvia , Falla Deborah , Farina Dario
Published: January 2014

Muscle pain induces a complex reorganization of the motor strategy which cannot be fully explained by current theories. We tested the hypothesis that the neural control of muscles during reaching in the presence of nociceptive input is determined by a reorganization of muscle synergies with respect to control conditions. Muscle pain was induced by injection of hypertonic saline into the anterior deltoid muscle of eight men. Electromyographic (EMG) signals were recorded from 12 upper limb muscles as subjects performed a reaching task before (baseline) and after the injection of hypertonic (pain) saline, and after the pain sensation vanished. The EMG envelopes were factorized in muscle synergies, and activation signals extracted for each condition. Nociceptive stimulation resulted in a complex muscle reorganization without changes in the kinematic output. The anterior deltoid muscle activity decreased in all subjects while the changes in other muscles were subject specific. Three synergies sufficed to describe the EMG patterns in each condition, suggesting that reaching movements remain modular in the presence of experimental pain. Muscle reorganization in all subjects was accompanied by a change in the activation signals compatible with a change in the central drive to muscles. One, two or three synergies were shared between the baseline and painful conditions, depending on the subject. These results indicate that nociceptive stimulation may induce a reorganization of modular control in reaching. We speculate that such reorganization may be due to the recruitment of synergies specific to the painful condition.
Ultrasound of Primary Aneurysmal Bone Cyst
Authors: Glazebrook Katrina N. , Keeney Gary L. , Rock Michael G.
Published: January 2014

Aneurysmal bone cysts (ABC) are rare, benign, expansile lesions of bone often found in the metaphyses of long bones in pediatric and young adult population. Multiple fluid levels are typically seen on imaging with magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) or computed tomography (CT). We describe a case of a primary ABC in the fibula of a 34-year-old man diagnosed on ultrasound with a mobile fluid level demonstrated sonographically.
Comparison of the Chromosome Banding Pattern in the2n=56Cytotypes ofNannospalax leucodonandN. xanthodonfrom Turkey
Authors: Arslan Atilla , Arısoy Apdil , Zima Jan
Published: January 2014

We present the karyotype characteristics of five cytotypes of mole rats (Nannospalax) with 56 chromosomes revealed by the C-banding and AgNOR staining analyses. We attempt to investigate if the specific distinction between the populations from Thrace (N. leucodon) and Anatolia (N. xanthodon) is reflected also in their karyotypic differentiation. The specimens from each of the five populations studied revealed a distinct karyotype which was different from those found in other populations. The fundamental number of autosomal arms varied from 68 to 72. The amount of C-heterochromatin was larger in the Thrace sample ofN. leucodoncompared to the Anatolian population ofN. xanthodon. The active NOR sites were recorded on five autosomal pairs inN. leucodon, whereas only three or four pairs bearing NOR were observed inN. xanthodon. Differences between the studied populations were quantified in the analysis of the distribution pattern of the C-positive bands and the AgNOR sites in individual chromosomes which indicated a basal position of the Thrace sample ofN. leucodonand its divergence from other studied populations. The karyotypes of the 56-chromosome populations ofN. leucodonandN. xanthodonare thus distinctly different.
Larmor Precession and Debye Relaxation of Single-Domain Magnetic Nanoparticles
Authors: Jánosfalvi Zs. , Hakl J. , de Châtel P. F.
Published: January 2014

The numerous phenomenological equations used in the study of the behaviour of single-domain magnetic nanoparticles are described and some issues clarified by means of qualitative comparison. To enable a quantitativeapplicationof the model based on the Debye (exponential) relaxation and the torque driving the Larmor precession, we present analytical solutions for the steady states in presence of circularly and linearly polarized AC magnetic fields. Using the exact analytical solutions, we can confirm the insight that underlies Rosensweig’s introduction of the “chord” susceptibility for an approximate calculation of the losses. As an important consequence, it can also explain experiments, where power dissipation for both fields was found to be identical in “root mean square” sense. We also find that this approximation provides satisfactory numerical accuracy only up to magnetic fields for which the argument of the Langevin function reaches the value 2.8.