bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Stroke Prevention: Managing Modifiable Risk Factors
Authors: Di Legge Silvia , Koch Giacomo , Diomedi Marina , Stanzione Paolo , Sallustio Fabrizio
Published: November 2012

Prevention plays a crucial role in counteracting morbidity and mortality related to ischemic stroke. It has been estimated that 50% of stroke are preventable through control of modifiable risk factors and lifestyle changes. Antihypertensive treatment is recommended for both prevention of recurrent stroke and other vascular events. The use of antiplatelets and statins has been shown to reduce the risk of recurrent stroke and other vascular events. Angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors (ACEIs) and angiotensin II receptor blockers (ARBs) are indicated in stroke prevention because they also promote vascular health. Effective secondary-prevention strategies for selected patients include carotid revascularization for high-grade carotid stenosis and vitamin K antagonist treatment for atrial fibrillation. The results of recent clinical trials investigating new anticoagulants (factor Xa inhibitors and direct thrombin inhibitors) clearly indicate alternative strategies in stroke prevention for patients with atrial fibrillation. This paper describes the current landscape and developments in stroke prevention with special reference to medical treatment in secondary prevention of ischemic stroke.
Occurrence and Distribution of Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons in Water and Sediment Collected along the Harbour Line, Mumbai, India
Authors: Dhananjayan V. , Muralidharan S. , Peter Vinny R.
Published: November 2012

This study investigated the occurrence of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) in water and sediment samples collected along the harbour line, Mumbai, India. The ∑PAHs quantified in water and sediment samples were ranged from 8.66 ng/L to 46.74 ng/L and from 2608 ng/g to 134134 ng/g dry wt., respectively. Significantly high concentration of ∑PAHs was found in water samples of Sewri and sediment samples of Mahul (P<0.05). PAH concentrations detected in the present study were several folds higher than the existing sediment quality criteria suggested by various statutory agencies. The PAH composition patterns in water and sediments suggest the dominance of high molecular weight compounds and indicate important pyrolytic and petrogenic sources. The occurrence of PAHs in the marine environment has attracted the attention of the scientific community as these compounds are frequently detected in seawater and sediments at increasing levels and can have adverse health effects on marine organisms and humans. PAH concentrations detected at Sewri-Mahul site were sufficiently high to pose a risk to marine organisms if they are exposed continuously to this concentration. Hence, continuous monitoring of the ecosystem is highly warranted.
Ostwald Ripening of Platinum Nanoparticles Confined in a Carbon Nanotube/Silica‐Templated Cylindrical Space
Authors: Mateo-Mateo Cintia , Vázquez-Vázquez Carmen , Pérez-Lorenzo Moisés , Salgueiriño Verónica , Correa-Duarte Miguel A.
Published: November 2012

Sintering of nanoparticles mediated by an Ostwald ripening mechanism is generally assessed examining the final particle size distributions. Based on this methodology, a general approach for depositing platinum nanoparticles onto carbon nanotubes in solution has been employed in order to evaluate the sintering process of these metallic nanoparticles at increasing temperatures in a carbon nanotube/silica‐templated confined space.
Fibromyalgia Syndrome: Etiology, Pathogenesis, Diagnosis, and Treatment
Authors: Bellato Enrico , Marini Eleonora , Castoldi Filippo , Barbasetti Nicola , Mattei Lorenzo , Bonasia Davide Edoardo , Blonna Davide
Published: November 2012

Fibromyalgia syndrome is mainly characterized by pain, fatigue, and sleep disruption. The etiology of fibromyalgia is still unclear: if central sensitization is considered to be the main mechanism involved, then many other factors, genetic, immunological, and hormonal, may play an important role. The diagnosis is typically clinical (there are no laboratory abnormalities) and the physician must concentrate on pain and on its features. Additional symptoms (e.g., Raynaud’s phenomenon, irritable bowel disease, and heat and cold intolerance) can be associated with this condition. A careful differential diagnosis is mandatory: fibromyalgia is not a diagnosis of exclusion. Since 1990, diagnosis has been principally based on the two major diagnostic criteria defined by the ACR. Recently, new criteria have been proposed. The main goals of the treatment are to alleviate pain, increase restorative sleep, and improve physical function. A multidisciplinary approach is optimal. While most nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs and opioids have limited benefit, an important role is played by antidepressants and neuromodulating antiepileptics: currently duloxetine (NNT for a 30% pain reduction 7.2), milnacipran (NNT 19), and pregabalin (NNT 8.6) are the only drugs approved by the US Food and Drug Administration for the treatment of fibromyalgia. In addition, nonpharmacological treatments should be associated with drug therapy.
Spin-One DKP Equation in the Presence of Coulomb and Harmonic Oscillator Interactions in (1+3)-Dimension
Authors: Hassanabadi H. , Molaee Z. , Ghominejad M. , Zarrinkamar S.
Published: November 2012

In this work, we study Duffin-Kemmer-Petiau equation in the presence of coulomb and harmonic oscillator potentials in (1+3)-dimension for spin-one particles and we obtain energy eigenvalues and corresponding eigenfunctions.
Atmospheric Neutrinos
Authors: Kajita Takaaki
Published: November 2012

Atmospheric neutrinos are produced as decay products in hadronic showers resulting from collisions of cosmic rays with nuclei in the atmosphere. Electron-neutrinos and muon-neutrinos are produced mainly by the decay chain of charged pions to muons to electrons. Atmospheric neutrino experiments observed zenith angle and energy-dependent deficit of muon-neutrino events. It was found that neutrino oscillations between muon-neutrinos and tau-neutrinos explain these data well. This paper discusses atmospheric neutrino experiments and the neutrino oscillation studies with these neutrinos.
Room Temperature N-Arylation of 1,2,4-Triazoles under Ligand-Free Condition
Authors: Suramwar Nikhil V. , Thakare Sanjay R. , Khaty Niraj T.
Published: November 2012

A simple and efficient method for N-arylation of 1,2,4-triazole at room temperature was described by the use of predominant (111) facet CuO nanoparticles as a catalyst in ligand-free condition. The catalyst was recyclable, and a variety of substrates give N-arylation product in high yield with short period of reaction time. The wide scope of this catalyst led us to investigate transformations involving less-reactive nitrogen nucleophiles, such as imidazole and pyrazoles. We were pleased to find that various derivatives of azoles were effectively coupled with aryl iodide to afford the desired N-arylated product in excellent yield.
Printed Internal Pentaband WWAN Antenna Using Chip-Inductor-Loaded Shorting Strip for Mobile Phone Application
Authors: Ban Yong-Ling , Yang Shun , Li Joshua Le-Wei , Li Rui
Published: November 2012

A compact size on-board printed antenna using capacitive coupled-fed excitation to generate multiple resonant modes for penta-band WWAN operation (GSM850/900/GSM1800/1900/UMTS2100) is presented in this paper. The proposed antenna occupies only a small footprint of 15 × 25 mm2on one corner of the circuit board and a protruded ground of 10 × 15 mm2is displaced with close proximity to the antenna portion. The proposed antenna has a very simple structure which is composed of two separate strips: a loop strip with an inserted chip inductor and an L-shaped feeding strip. The loop strip is shorted to the ground and generates a resonant mode at 890 MHz to cover the GSM850/900 band (824–960 MHz) while the feeding strip contributes to the GSM1800/1900/UMTS210 band (1710–2170 MHz) operation. With such a small size, the proposed antenna can achieve compact integration on the circuit board of the mobile phone, thus the proposed scheme is quite suitable for the slim mobile phone application. Good agreements between simulations and measurements are obtained. Details of proposed antenna are presented and some key parameters are studied.
Guidance Compliance Behavior on VMS Based on SOAR Cognitive Architecture
Authors: Zhong Shiquan , Ma Hongwei , Zhou Lizhen , Wang Xuelian , Ma Shoufeng , Jia Ning
Published: November 2012

SOAR is a cognitive architecture named from state, operator and result, which is adopted to portray the drivers′ guidance compliance behavior on variable message sign (VMS) in this paper. VMS represents traffic conditions to drivers by three colors: red, yellow, and green. Based on the multiagent platform, SOAR is introduced to design the agent with the detailed description of the working memory, long‐term memory, decision cycle, and learning mechanism. With the fixed decision cycle, agent transforms state through four kinds of operators, including choosing route directly, changing the driving goal, changing the temper of driver, and changing the road condition of prediction. The agent learns from the process of state transformation by chunking and reinforcement learning. Finally, computerized simulation program is used to study the guidance compliance behavior. Experiments are simulated many times under given simulation network and conditions. The result, including the comparison between guidance and no guidance, the state transition times, and average chunking times are analyzed to further study the laws of guidance compliance and learning mechanism.
Radial-Basis-Function-Network-Based Prediction of Performance and Emission Characteristics in a Bio Diesel Engine Run on WCO Ester
Authors: Kumar Shiva , Srinivasa Pai P. , Shrinivasa Rao B. R.
Published: November 2012

Radial basis function neural networks (RBFNNs), which is a relatively new class of neural networks, have been investigated for their applicability for prediction of performance and emission characteristics of a diesel engine fuelled with waste cooking oil (WCO). The RBF networks were trained using the experimental data, where in load percentage, compression ratio, blend percentage, injection timing, and injection pressure were taken as the input parameters, and brake thermal efficiency (BTE), brake specific energy consumption (BSEC), exhaust gas temperature (), and engine emissions were used as the output parameters. The number of RBF centers was selected randomly. The network was initially trained using variable width values for the RBF units using a heuristic and then was trained by using fixed width values. Studies showed that RBFNN predicted results matched well with the experimental results over a wide range of operating conditions. Prediction accuracy for all the output parameters was above 90% in case of performance parameters and above 70% in case of emission parameters.
Do the Microshear Test Variables Affect the Bond Strength Values?
Authors: Andrade Andrea M. , Garcia Eugenio , Moura Sandra Kiss , Reis Alessandra , Loguercio Alessandro , Silva Luciana Mendonça , Pimentel Gustavo H. D. , Grande Rosa Helena Miranda
Published: November 2012

Little is known about the effect of specimen preparation and testing protocols on the micro-shear bond strength (μSBS) results. To evaluate whether variations in polyethylene rod use affect (μSBS)). Human dentin disks were randomly distributed into six groups (): polyethylene tube (3 levels) and adhesive system (2 levels). In Group 1, polyethylene tubes filled with polymerized composite) were placed on adhesive covered surfaces. Tubes were removed 24 h after water storage, leaving the rods only. In Group 2, the same procedure was performed; however, tubes were kept in place during testing. In Group 3, composite rods without tubes were placed on adhesive covered dentin. In all groups, adhesives were photoactivated after positioning filled tubes/rods on adhesive covered surfaces. Specimens were tested under shear mode and the data subjected to a two-way ANOVA and Tukey’s tests. Groups 1 and 2 resulted in statistically similar meanμSBS (); however, a greater number of pretest failures were observed for Group 1. HigherμSBS values were detected for Group 3, irrespective of adhesive system used (). Removing the polyethylene tube before composite rod is placed on dentin affectsμSBS values.
Lemierre’s Syndrome: Rare, but Life Threatening—A Case Report withStreptococcus intermedius
Authors: Gupta Shalini , Merchant Shehzad S.
Published: November 2012

Lemierre’s syndrome (LS) is a rare, but a life-threatening complication of an oropharyngeal infection. Combinations of fever, pharyngitis, dysphagia, odynophagia, or oropharyngeal swelling are common presenting symptoms. Infection of the lateral pharyngeal space may result in thrombosis of the internal jugular vein, subsequent metastatic complications (e.g., lung abscesses, septic arthritis), and significant morbidity and mortality. LS is usually caused by the gram-negative anaerobic bacillusFusobacterium necrophorum, hence also known as necrobacillosis. We present a case of LS caused byStreptococcus intermedius, likely secondary to gingival scraping, in which the presenting complaint was neck pain. The oropharyngeal examination was normal and an initial CT of the neck was done without contrast, which likely resulted in a diagnostic delay. This syndrome can be easily missed in early phases. However, given the potential severity of LS, early recognition and expedient appropriate antimicrobial treatment are critical.S. intermediusis an unusual cause of LS, with only 2 previous cases being reported in the literature. Therefore, an awareness of the myriad presentations of this syndrome, which in turn will lead to appropriate and timely diagnostic studies, will result in improved outcome for LS.
Reliability of Measuring the Cervical Sagittal Translation Mobility with a Simple Method in a Clinical Setting
Authors: Severinsson Yvonne , Elisson Lena , Bunketorp Olle
Published: November 2012

Introduction. The cervical sagittal translation mobility is related to neck pain. A practical method for measuring the specific cervical mobility is needed. The aim was to describe a simple method for measuring the cervical sagittal translation mobility and to evaluate its reliability in a clinical setting.Method. The head protraction and retraction ranges of thirty healthy seated subjects were measured from a dorsal reference plane by two physiotherapists utilizing a tape measure. A standard inclinometer/goniometer was used to minimize angular movements of the head during the translational movements. The measurements were made twice for each subject with a two-hours interval between each measurement. The inter-rater and intra-rater agreements were evaluated with intraclass correlation coefficients (ICCs) and with the distribution of the difference of the measurements. The systematic differences were analysed with the Wilcoxon signed rank test.Results. The intra-rater agreement was good. The inter-rater agreement was moderate in the first measurement and good in the second. A systematic difference was noted between raters in the first measurement but not in the second, possibly indicating a learning effect.Discussion. The method used in the study is simple and reliable and can be recommended for clinical use.
Analysis on the Clinical and Pathological Features and Prognosis of Familial Gastric Cancer in South China Population: A Single-Center Study of 724 Patients
Authors: Lu Jun , Huang Chang-Ming , Zheng Chao-Hui , Li Ping , Xie Jian-Wei , Wang Jia-Bin , Lin Jian-Xian
Published: November 2012

Gastric cancer is the second most common cause of cancer death worldwide. It is estimated that 5–10% of gastric cancer cases have a familial association; however, knowledge concerning the clinical, pathological features and prognosis to familial gastric cancer is currently limited. To our best knowledge, this is the largest number of single center patients reported in southern China. Our research can help these rare families to obtain optimal treatment in the future. Our work is supported by Union Hospital of Fujian Medical University.
Bifurcations of a Homoclinic Orbit to Saddle‐Center in Reversible Systems
Authors: Qiao Zhiqin , Xu Yancong
Published: November 2012

The bifurcations near a primary homoclinic orbit to a saddle‐center are investigated in a 4‐dimensional reversible system. By establishing a new kind of local moving frame along the primary homoclinic orbit and using the Melnikov functions, the existence and nonexistence of 1‐homoclinic orbit and 1‐periodic orbit, including symmetric 1‐homoclinic orbit and 1‐periodic orbit, and their corresponding codimension 1 or
codimension 3 surfaces, are obtained.
Obstructed or Malpositioned Urethral Catheter Induced Acute Kidney Injury
Authors: Patel Ankita , Friedman Eli A.
Published: November 2012

Unanticipated renal failure may be induced by an obstructed urethral catheter that was a component of complex management or difficult insertion. Two patients with new-onset uremia due to obstructed urethral catheters evinced rapid return of renal function when their blocked catheters were replaced.
Dysphagia after Colon Interposition Graft for Esophageal Carcinoma
Authors: Spitali C. , De Vogelaere K. , Delvaux G.
Published: November 2012

Colon interposition is an established technique for esophageal reconstruction. We describe the case of primary adenocarcinoma arising in a colonic interposition graft that was performed after total esophagectomy for recurrence adenocarcinoma derived from the Barrett esophagus.
Surgeons’ Volume-Outcome Relationship for Lobectomies and Wedge Resections for Cancer Using Video-Assisted Thoracoscopic Techniques
Authors: David Guy , Gunnarsson Candace L. , Moore Matt , Howington John , Miller Daniel L. , Maddaus Michael A. , McKenna Robert Joseph , Meyers Bryan F. , Swanson Scott J.
Published: November 2012

This study examined the effect of surgeons’ volume on outcomes in lung surgery: lobectomies and wedge resections. Additionally, the effect of video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery (VATS) on cost, utilization, and adverse events was analyzed. The Premier Hospital Database was the data source for this analysis. Eligible patients were those of any age undergoing lobectomy or wedge resection using VATS for cancer treatment. Volume was represented by the aggregate experience level of the surgeon in a six-month window before each surgery. A positive volume-outcome relationship was found with some notable features. The relationship is stronger for cost and utilization outcomes than for adverse events; for thoracic surgeons as opposed to other surgeons; for VATS lobectomies rather than VATS wedge resections. While there was a reduction in cost and resource utilization with greater experience in VATS, these outcomes were not associated with greater experience in open procedures.
Donor Transmission of Melanoma Following Renal Transplant
Authors: Chen Kathryn T. , Olszanski Anthony , Farma Jeffrey M.
Published: November 2012

Donor transmission of melanoma is one of the more common and lethal of recipient malignancies, often presenting with systemic disease. Although some patients may receive durable remission of melanoma following explantation of the allograft and withdrawal of immunosuppression, donor transmission of melanoma is fatal in most patients. Here we present a case of a 44-year-old male who developed metastatic melanoma following renal transplant.
Differences in User Influence on MIMO Handset Antenna Performance in Reverberation Chamber
Authors: Sánchez-Heredia Juan D. , Hallbjörner Paul , Valenzuela-Valdés Juan F. , Bolin Thomas , Martínez-González Antonio M.
Published: November 2012

User influence on multiple-input multiple-output (MIMO) performance is studied for different dual antenna handsets specially designed to have good and bad MIMO performance. The study reveals that user influence can cause either improvement or degradation for different test objects, including a spread effect over the parameters. Differences in performance between good and bad handsets can be clear when they are measured without user influence, but become small under real person influence. This result illustrates the particular importance of user influence to characterize MIMO handsets.
MicroRNA Response Elements-Mediated miRNA-miRNA Interactions in Prostate Cancer
Authors: Alshalalfa Mohammed
Published: November 2012

The cell is a highly organized system of interacting molecules including proteins, mRNAs, and miRNAs. Analyzing the cell
from a systems perspective by integrating different types of data helps revealing the complexity of diseases. Although there is
emerging evidence that microRNAs have a functional role in cancer, the role of microRNAs in mediating cancer progression
and metastasis remains not fully explored. As the amount of available miRNA and mRNA gene expression data grows, more
systematic methods combining gene expression and biological networks become necessary to explore miRNA function. In this work
I integrated functional miRNA-target interactions with mRNA and miRNA expression to infer mRNA-mediated miRNA-miRNA
interactions. The inferred network represents miRNA modulation through common targets. The network is used to characterize
the functional role of microRNA response element (MRE) to mediate interactions between miRNAs targeting the MRE. Results
revealed that miRNA-1 is a key player in regulating prostate cancer progression. 11 miRNAs were identified as diagnostic and
prognostic biomarkers that act as tumor suppressor miRNAs. This work demonstrates the utility of a network analysis as opposed
to differential expression to find important miRNAs that regulate prostate cancer.
Symmetry Classification of First Integrals for Scalar Linearizable Second‐Order ODEs
Authors: Mahomed K. S. , Momoniat E.
Published: November 2012

Symmetries of the fundamental first integrals for scalar second‐order ordinary differential equations (ODEs) which are linear or linearizable by point transformations have already been obtained. Firstly we show how one can determine the relationship between the symmetries and the first integrals of linear or linearizable scalar ODEs of order two. Secondly, a complete classification of point symmetries of first integrals of such linear ODEs is studied. As a consequence, we provide a counting theorem for the point symmetries of first integrals of scalar linearizable second‐order ODEs. We show that there exists the 0‐, 1‐, 2‐, or 3‐point symmetry cases. It is shown that the maximal algebra case is unique.
Equivalent Lagrangians: Generalization, Transformation Maps, and Applications
Authors: Wilson N. , Kara A. H.
Published: November 2012

Equivalent Lagrangians are used to find, via transformations, solutions and conservation laws of a given differential equation by exploiting the possible existence of an isomorphic algebra of Lie point symmetries and, more particularly, an isomorphic Noether point symmetry algebra. Applications include ordinary differential equations such as the Kummer equation and the combined gravity-inertial-Rossbywave equation and certain classes of partial differential equations related to multidimensional wave equations.
Relevance of Variations in the Opposing Dentition for the Functionality of Fixed and Removable Partial Dentures: A Systematic Review
Authors: Pommer Bernhard , Krainhöfner Martin , Watzek Georg , Tepper Gabor , Dintsios Charalabos-Markos
Published: November 2012

The aim of this systematic review was to evaluate the functionality of fixed and removable partial dentures as test interventions in relation to variations in the opposing dentition and their prosthetic restoration. The abstracts identified in the respective databases were screened independently by two investigators. RCTs and uncontrolled studies were considered, provided the patients were included consecutively and the confounding variables were adequately monitored. Seventeen papers were included. The study and publication quality was assessed using a “biometric quality” tool showing an overall poor quality. The reported outcomes, such as survival rates, were in each case obtained from a single study. Two possible trends could be deduced for the endpoint longevity: (a) the first trend in favor of removable partial dentures, compared to fixed partial dentures, with a fully edentulous opposing arch fitted with a removable prosthesis; (b) the second trend in favor of implant-supported partial dentures, compared to conventionally fixed partial dentures, with natural opposing dentition or with a removable partial denture in the opposing arch. No evidence could be generated as to whether, and if so how, variations in the opposing dentition have a bearing on the decision to fit a partially edentulous arch with a fixed or removable partial denture.
Understanding Nephrogenic Systemic Fibrosis
Authors: Chopra Tushar , Kandukurti Kiran , Shah Silvi , Ahmed Raheel , Panesar Mandip
Published: November 2012

Nephrogenic systemic fibrosis (NSF) is a rare and a debilitating disease noted uncommonly in patients with impaired renal function when exposed to low-stability gadolinium-based contrast agents (Gd-CAs). According to experimental studies, cytokines released by the stimulation of effector cells such as skin macrophages and peripheral blood monocytes activate circulating fibroblasts which play a major role in the development of NSF lesions. The presence of permissive factors, presumably, provides an environment conducive to facilitate the process of fibrosis. Multiple treatment modalities have been tried with variable success rates. More research is necessary to elucidate the underlying pathophysiological mechanisms which could potentially target the initial steps of fibrosis in these patients. This paper attempts to collate the inferences from the in vivo and in vitro experiments to the clinical observations to understand the pathogenesis of NSF. Schematic representations of receptor-mediated molecular pathways of activation of macrophages and fibroblasts by gadolinium and the final pathway to fibrosis are incorporated in the discussion.
Power Balancing of Inline Multicylinder Diesel Engine
Authors: Gawande S. H. , Navale L. G. , Nandgaonkar M. R.
Published: November 2012

In this work, a simplified methodology is presented for power balancing by reducing the amplitude of engine speed variation, which result in excessive torsional vibrations of the crankshaft of inline six-cylinder diesel engine. In modern fuel injection systems for reciprocating engines, nonuniform cylinder-wise torque contribution is a common problem due to nonuniform fuel supply due to a defect in fuel injection system, causing increased torsional vibration levels of the crankshaft and stress of mechanical parts. In this paper, a mathematical model for the required fuel adjustment by using amplitude of engine speed variation applied on the flywheel based on engine dynamics is suggested. From the found empirical relations and FFT analysis, the amplitude of engine speed variation (i.e., torsional vibration levels) of the crankshaft of inline six-cylinder diesel engine genset can be reduced up to 55%. This proposed methodology is simulated by developing MATALB code for uniform and nonuniform working of direct injection diesel engine of SL90 type manufactured by Kirloskar Oil Engine Ltd., Pune, India.
A Computationally Efficient, Exploratory Approach to Brain Connectivity Incorporating False Discovery Rate Control,A PrioriKnowledge, and Group Inference
Authors: Liu Aiping , Li Junning , Wang Z. Jane , McKeown Martin J.
Published: November 2012

Graphical models appear well suited for inferring brain connectivity from fMRI data, as they can distinguish between direct and indirect brain connectivity. Nevertheless, biological interpretation requires not only that the multivariate time series are adequately modeled, but also that there is accurate error-control of the inferred edges. The PCfdralgorithm, which was developed by Li and Wang, was to provide a computationally efficient means to control the false discovery rate (FDR) of computed edges asymptotically. The original PCfdralgorithm was unable to accommodatea prioriinformation about connectivity and was designed to infer connectivity from a single subject rather than a group of subjects. Here we extend the original PCfdralgorithm and propose a multisubject, error-rate-controlled brain connectivity modeling approach that allows incorporation of prior knowledge of connectivity. In simulations, we show that the two proposed extensions can still control the FDR around or below a specified threshold. When the proposed approach is applied to fMRI data in a Parkinson’s disease study, we find robust group evidence of the disease-related changes, the compensatory changes, and the normalizing effect of L-dopa medication. The proposed method provides a robust, accurate, and practical method for the assessment of brain connectivity patterns from functional neuroimaging data.
Detection of Postoperative Intestinal Ischemia in Small Bowel Transplants
Authors: Birke-Sorensen Hanne
Published: November 2012

Small bowel transplantation is acknowledged as auto- and allotransplantation. In both instances, there is up to a 4%–10% risk of postoperative ischemia, and as the small bowel is extremely susceptible to ischemia, the timely diagnosis of ischemia is important. The location of the transplant, whether it is buried in the abdominal cavity or in the neck region, increases the challenge, as monitoring becomes more difficult and the consequences of neglect more dangerous. All methods for the early detection of postoperative ischemia in small bowel transplants are described together with the requirements of the ideal monitoring method. A small bowel transplant can be inspected directly or indirectly; the blood flow can be monitored by Doppler or by photoplethysmography, and the consequences of the blood flow can be monitored. The ideal monitoring method should be reliable, fast, minimally invasive, safe, objective, easy, cheap, and comfortable. No monitoring methods today fulfill the criteria of the ideal monitoring method, and evidence-based guidelines regarding postoperative monitoring cannot be made. The choice of whether to implement monitoring of ischemia—and if so, which method to choose—has to be made by the individual surgeon or center.
Raman Spectroscopy, X-Ray, SEM, and DTA Analysis of Alkali-Phosphate Glasses ContainingWO3and Nb2O5
Authors: Bih L. , Azrour M. , Manoun B. , Graça M. P. F. , Valente M. A.
Published: November 2012

New phosphate glasses in the quaternary system (50-x) A2O-xWO3-10 Nb2O5-40 P2O5, withx= 0; 30 and A = Li or Na were prepared by the melt quenching method. The effect on the crystallization behaviour of the glass due to the introduction of WO3into the glass composition and, consequently, the diminishing of the molar amount of the alkaline oxide and the decreasing of the molar ratio between network modifiers and network formers (M/F) was studied. The prepared glasses were heat-treated in air, at 550°C, 600°C, and 650°C for 4 hours. The structure, of the obtained samples, was studied by differential thermal analysis (DTA), X-ray powder diffraction (XRD), and Raman spectroscopy and the morphology by scanning electron microscopy (SEM). It was found that the replacement of Li2O or Na2O by WO3reduces the number of the crystallised phases. In the lithium-niobiophosphate glasses, the presence of WO3promotes the formation of NbOPO4instead of the LiNbO3phase and reduces the formation of ortho- and pyro-phosphate phases. The thermal treatments affect the arrangements of the network structure of the AW40-glasses.
Pyrolysis Synthesized g‐C3N4 for Photocatalytic Degradation of Methylene Blue
Authors: Xin Gang , Meng Yali
Published: November 2012

Graphitic carbon nitride (g‐C3N4) was synthesized at 520°C by the pyrolysis of cyanamide, dicyandiamide, and melamine. The samples were characterized by X–ray diffraction (XRD), UV‐visible diffuse reflectance spectra, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT‐IR), and elemental analyzer. The photocatalytic activity of g‐C3N4 was evaluated by the photodegrading experiments of methylene blue (MB). The results indicated that g‐C3N4. A photocatalytic mechanism presumed the MB photodegradation over the C3N4 photocatalyst is attributed to photogenerated electron impelled multistep reduction of O2.
Alkylation and 1,3‐Dipolar Cycloaddition of 6‐Styryl‐4,5‐dihydro‐2H‐pyridazin‐3‐one: Synthesis of Novel N‐Substituted Pyridazinones and Triazolo[4,3‐b]pyridazinones
Authors: Mojahidi Souad , Sekkak Hanan , Rakib El Mostapha , Neves Maria G. P. M. S. , Faustino Maria A. F. , Cavaleiro José A. S. , Zouihri Hafid
Published: November 2012

Some new N‐substituted pyridazinones and triazolo[4,3‐b]pyridazinones were synthesized, respectively, by simple alkylation and 1,3‐dipolar cycloaddition of pyridazin‐3‐one with nitrile imines. The regioselectivity of the reactions was ascertained by 1H, 13C NMR spectroscopy and X‐ray diffraction of the synthesized compounds.
Synthesis of Blue‐Green Phosphors Sr4Si3O8Cl4:Eu2+ by Gel‐Combustion Method and Their Luminescent Properties
Authors: Zhai Yong-Qing , Wang Li-Li , Chen Juan , Feng Shi-Hua
Published: November 2012

Sr4Si3O8Cl4:Eu2+ blue‐green phosphors were synthesized by the gel‐combustion method. The as‐synthesized phosphors were analyzed and characterized by X‐ray diffraction and fluorescence spectrophotometer. The results indicate that orthorhombic phase Sr4Si3O8Cl4:Eu2+ has been formed after the precursor calcined at 900°C
reductive temperature. The excitation spectrum of Sr4Si3O8Cl4:Eu2+ is a broad band in the range of 250 ~ 450 nm and the main peak at 324 nm. The emission spectrum is also a broad band with the main emission peak at about 484 nm, which is ascribed to the typical 4f5d1
to 4f7
transition of Eu2+. Moreover, the effects of the concentration of Eu2+, the reductive temperature, and the doping amount of Mg2+ on luminescent properties were discussed.
Validated HPTLC Method for Simultaneous Analysis of Pyrimethamine and Sulphadoxine in Pharmaceutical Dosage Forms
Authors: Meena S. , Sandhya S. M.
Published: November 2012

A simple, specific, precise, and accurate HPTLC method for analysis of pyrimethamine (PYR) and sulphadoxine (SUL) both in bulk drugs and tablet formulation was developed and validated. The method uses haloperidol as an internal standard (IS). Chromatography was performed on TLC plates with precoated silica gel 60F254 using chloroform‐n‐butanol‐acetone (6 : 1.5 : 2, v/v/v) as a mobile phase. Densitometric evaluation was performed at 254 nm. The RF values were 0.27 for PYR, 0.63 for IS, and 0.75 for SUL. Linear regression analysis data for calibration plots revealed good linearity over the concentration ranges 100–500 ng per band for PYR and 2000–10000 ng per band for SUL. The method was validated for linearity, accuracy (from 98.12 to 101.24%), precision, robustness, and specificity in accordance with ICH guidelines. The limits of detection and quantification for PYR were 14.15 and 43.07 ng per band; for SUL, 58.37 and 152.26 ng per band, respectively. Statistical analysis showed the method enables repeatable and selective simultaneous analysis of these drugs in tablet formulation and routine quality control of the bulk drug raw material.
Molecular Mechanisms Responsible for the Reduced Expression of Cholesterol Transporters From Macrophages by Low-Dose Endotoxin
Authors: Maitra Urmila , Li Liwu
Published: November 2012

Objective—

Atherosclerosis is characterized as a chronic inflammatory condition that involves cholesterol deposition in arteries. Together with scavenger receptor B1 (SR-B1), the ATP-binding cassette transporters ABCA1 and ABCG1 are the major components of macrophage cholesterol efflux. Recent studies have shown that low-grade inflammation plays a distinct regulatory role in the expression of SR-B1 and ABCA1/ABCG1. However, the mechanisms linking low-grade inflammation and cholesterol accumulation are poorly understood.

Methods and Results—

Using primary bone-marrow-derived macrophages, we demonstrate that subclinical low-dose lipopolysaccharide potently reduces the expression of SR-B1 and ABCA1/ABCG1, as well as cholesterol efflux from macrophages through interleukin-1 receptor-associated kinase 1 and Toll-interacting-protein. Low-dose lipopolysaccharide downregulates the nuclear levels of retinoic acid receptor-α, leading to their reduced binding to the promoters of SR-B1 and ABCA1/ABCG1. We observe that glycogen synthase kinase 3β activation by low-dose lipopolysaccharide through interleukin-1 receptor-associated kinase 1 and Toll-interacting-protein is responsible for reduced levels of retinoic acid receptor-α, and reduced expression of SR-B1 and ABCA1/ABCG1. Interleukin-1 receptor-associated kinase M, however, counteracts the function of interleukin-1 receptor associated kinase 1.

Conclusion—

Collectively, our data reveal a novel intracellular network regulated by low-dose endotoxemia that disrupts cholesterol efflux from macrophages and leads to the pathogenesis of atherosclerosis.
Transglutaminase Inhibitors Attenuate Vascular Calcification in a Preclinical Model
Authors: Beazley Kelly E. , Banyard Derek , Lima Florence , Deasey Stephanie C. , Nurminsky Dmitry I. , Konoplyannikov Mikhail , Nurminskaya Maria V.
Published: November 2012

Objective—

In vitro, transglutaminase-2 (TG2)–mediated activation of the β-catenin signaling pathway is central in warfarin-induced calcification, warranting inquiry into the importance of this signaling axis as a target for preventive therapy of vascular calcification in vivo.

Methods and Results—

The adverse effects of warfarin-induced elastocalcinosis in a rat model include calcification of the aortic media, loss of the cellular component in the vessel wall, and isolated systolic hypertension, associated with accumulation and activation of TG2 and activation of β-catenin signaling. These effects of warfarin can be completely reversed by intraperitoneal administration of the TG2-specific inhibitor KCC-009 or dietary supplementation with the bioflavonoid quercetin, known to inhibit β-catenin signaling. Our study also uncovers a previously uncharacterized ability of quercetin to inhibit TG2. Quercetin reversed the warfarin-induced increase in systolic pressure, underlying the functional consequence of this treatment. Molecular analysis shows that quercetin diet stabilizes the phenotype of smooth muscle and prevents its transformation into osteoblastic cells.

Conclusion—

Inhibition of the TG2/β-catenin signaling axis seems to prevent warfarin-induced elastocalcinosis and to control isolated systolic hypertension.
Donor and Recipient Cell Surface Colony Stimulating Factor-1 Promote Neointimal Formation in Transplant-Associated Arteriosclerosis
Authors: Hiroyasu Shungo , Chinnasamy Prameladevi , Hou Rong , Hotchkiss Kylie , Casimiro Isabel , Dai Xu-ming , Stanley E. Richard , Sibinga Nicholas E.S.
Published: November 2012

Objective—

Transplant-associated arteriosclerosis manifests as progressive vascular neointimal expansion throughout the arterial system of allografted solid organs, and eventually compromises graft perfusion and function. Allografts placed in colony stimulating factor (CSF)-1-deficient osteopetrotic (
Csf1

op

/Csf1

op

) mice develop very little neointima, a finding attributed to impaired recipient macrophage function. We examined how CSF-1 affects neointima-derived vascular smooth muscle cells, tested the significance of CSF-1 expressed in donor tissue, and evaluated the contribution of secreted versus cell surface CSF-1 isoforms in transplant-associated arteriosclerosis.

Methods and Results—

CSF-1 activated specific signaling pathways to promote migration, survival, and proliferation of cultured vascular smooth muscle cells. Tumor necrosis factor-α addition increased CSF-1 and CSF-1 receptor expression, and tumor necrosis factor-α-driven proliferation was blocked by anti-CSF-1 antibody. In a mouse vascular allograft model, lack of recipient or donor CSF-1 impaired neointima formation; the latter suggests local CSF-1 function within the allograft. Moreover, reconstitution of donor or recipient cell surface CSF-1, without secreted CSF-1, restored neointimal formation.

Conclusion—

Vascular smooth muscle cells activation, including that mediated by tumor necrosis factor-α, can be driven in an autocrine/juxtacrine manner by CSF-1. These studies provide evidence for local function of CSF-1 in neointimal expansion, and identify CSF-1 signaling in vascular smooth muscle cells, particularly cell surface CSF-1 signaling, as a target for therapeutic strategies in transplant-associated arteriosclerosis.
Galectin-3 Mediates Aldosterone-Induced Vascular Fibrosis
Authors: Calvier Laurent , Miana Maria , Reboul Pascal , Cachofeiro Victoria , Martinez-Martinez Ernesto , de Boer Rudolf A. , Poirier Françoise , Lacolley Patrick , Zannad Faiez , Rossignol Patrick , López-Andrés Natalia
Published: November 2012

Objective—

Aldosterone (Aldo) is involved in arterial stiffness and heart failure, but the mechanisms have remained unclear. Galectin-3 (Gal-3), a β-galactoside-binding lectin, plays an important role in inflammation, fibrosis, and heart failure. We investigated here whether Gal-3 is involved in Aldo-induced vascular fibrosis.

Methods and Results—

In rat vascular smooth muscle cells Gal-3 overexpression enhanced specifically collagen type I synthesis. Moreover Gal-3 inhibition by modified citrus pectin or small interfering RNA blocked Aldo-induced collagen type I synthesis. Rats were treated with Aldo-salt combined with spironolactone or modified citrus pectin for 3 weeks. Hypertensive Aldo-treated rats presented vascular hypertrophy, inflammation, fibrosis, and increased aortic Gal-3 expression. Spironolactone or modified citrus pectin treatment reversed all the above effects. Wild-type and Gal-3 knock-out mice were treated with Aldo for 6 hours or 3 weeks. Aldo increased aortic Gal-3 expression, inflammation, and collagen type I in wild-type mice at both the short- and the long-term, whereas no changes occurred in Gal-3 knock-out mice.

Conclusion—

Our data indicate that Gal-3 is required for inflammatory and fibrotic responses to Aldo in vascular smooth muscle cells in vitro and in vivo, suggesting a key role for Gal-3 in vascular fibrosis.
Heterogeneity of Platelet Functional Alterations in Patients With Filamin A Mutations
Authors: Berrou Eliane , Adam Frédéric , Lebret Marilyne , Fergelot Patricia , Kauskot Alexandre , Coupry Isabelle , Jandrot-Perrus Martine , Nurden Alan , Favier Rémi , Rosa Jean-Philippe , Goizet Cyril , Nurden Paquita , Bryckaert Marijke
Published: November 2012

Objective—

We examined platelet functions in 4 unrelated patients with filaminopathy A caused by dominant mutations of the X-linked filamin A (
FLNA
) gene.

Methods and Results—

Patients P1, P2, and P4 exhibited periventricular nodular heterotopia, heterozygozity for truncating
FLNA
mutations, and thrombocytopenia (except P2). P3 exhibited isolated thrombocytopenia and heterozygozity for a p.Glu1803Lys
FLNA
mutation. Truncated FLNa was undetectable by Western blotting of P1, P2, and P4 platelets, but full-length FLNa was detected at 37%, 82%, and 57% of control, respectively. P3 FLNa (p.Glu1803Lys and full-length) was assessed at 79%. All patients exhibited a platelet subpopulation negative for FLNa. Platelet aggregation, secretion, glycoprotein VI signaling, and thrombus growth on collagen were decreased for P1, P3, and P4, but normal for P2. For the 2 patients analyzed (P1 and P4), spreading was enhanced and, more markedly, in FLNa-negative platelets, suggesting that FLNa negatively regulates cytoskeleton reorganization. Platelet adhesion to von Willebrand factor under flow correlated with platelet full-length FLNa content: markedly reduced for P1 and P4 and unchanged for P2. Interestingly, von Willebrand factor flow adhesion was increased for P3, consistent with a gain-of-function effect enhancing glycoprotein Ib-IX-V/von Willebrand factor interaction. These results are consistent with a positive role for FLNa in platelet adhesion under high shear.

Conclusion—

FLNA
mutation heterogeneity correlates with different platelet functional impacts and points to opposite regulatory roles of FLNa in spreading and flow adhesion under shear.
Genome-Wide Association Study Evaluating Lipoprotein-Associated Phospholipase A
2
Mass and Activity at Baseline and After Rosuvastatin Therapy
Authors: Chu Audrey Y. , Guilianini Franco , Grallert Harald , Dupuis Josée , Ballantyne Christie M. , Barratt Bryan J. , Nyberg Fredrik , Chasman Daniel I. , Ridker Paul M.
Published: November 2012

Background—

Lipoprotein-associated phospholipase A
2
(Lp-PLA
2
) is a proinflammatory enzyme bound to low-density lipoprotein cholesterol and other circulating lipoproteins. Two measures of Lp-PLA
2
, mass and activity, are associated with increased cardiovascular risk. Data are sparse regarding genetic determinants of Lp-PLA
2
mass and activity, and no prior data are available addressing genetic determinants of statin-induced changes for this proinflammatory biomarker.

Methods and Results
—

We performed a genome-wide association study of Lp-PLA
2
mass and activity at baseline and after 12 months of rosuvastatin therapy (20 mg/d) among 6851 participants of European ancestry from the Justification for Use of Statins in Prevention: an Intervention Trial Evaluating Rosuvastatin (JUPITER) and performed replication in a meta-analysis of 13 664 participants from the Cohorts for Heart and Aging Research in Genomic Epidemiology (CHARGE) Consortium. Novel associations were identified and replicated at
MS4A4E
and
TMEM49
for baseline Lp-PLA
2
activity with genome-wide significant joint
P
values (
P
=2.0×10
−11
and
P
=2.9×10
−9
, respectively). In addition, genome-wide associations (
P
<5×10
−8
) were identified and replicated for baseline Lp-PLA
2
mass at
CETP
and for Lp-PLA
2
activity at the
APOC1-APOE
and
PLA2G7
loci. Among 2673 statin-allocated participants, both Lp-PLA
2
mass and activity were reduced by >30% and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol by 50% after 12 months of statin therapy (
P
<0.001 for both). Variants in
ABCG2
and
LPA
were associated with change in statin-induced Lp-PLA
2
activity at genome-wide significance but were substantially attenuated after adjustment for statin-induced changes in lipid levels.

Conclusions—

Genome-wide significant associations at
MS4A4E
and
TMEM49
may reflect novel influences on circulating levels of Lp-PLA
2
activity. In addition, genome-wide significant associations with rosuvastatin-induced change in Lp-PLA
2
activity were observed in
ABCG2
and
LPA
, likely because of their impact on statin-induced low-density lipoprotein cholesterol lowering.