bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Flow-induced prostaglandin E2 release regulates Na and K transport in the collecting duct
Authors: Flores Daniel , Liu Yu , Liu Wen , Satlin Lisa M. , Rohatgi Rajeev
Published: June 2012

Fluid shear stress (FSS) is a critical regulator of cation transport in the collecting duct (CD). High-dietary sodium (Na) consumption increases urine flow, Na excretion, and prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) excretion. We hypothesize that increases in FSS elicited by increasing tubular flow rate induce the release of PGE2 from renal epithelial cells into the extracellular compartment and regulate ion transport. Media retrieved from CD cells exposed to physiologic levels of FSS reveal several fold higher concentration of PGE2 compared with static controls. Treatment of CD cells with either cyclooxygenase-1 (COX-1) or COX-2 inhibitors during exposure to FSS limited the increase in PGE2 concentration to an equal extent, suggesting COX-1 and COX-2 contribute equally to FSS-induced PGE2 release. Cytosolic phospholipase A2 (cPLA2), the principal enzyme that generates the COX substrate arachidonic acid, is regulated by mitogen-activated protein-kinase-dependent phosphorylation and intracellular Ca2+ concentration ([Ca2+]i), both signaling processes, of which, are activated by FSS. Inhibition of the ERK and p38 pathways reduced PGE2 release by 53.3 ± 8.4 and 32.6 ± 11.3%, respectively, while antagonizing the JNK pathway had no effect. In addition, chelation of [Ca2+]i limited the FSS-mediated increase in PGE2 concentration by 47.5 ± 7.5% of that observed in untreated sheared cells. Sheared cells expressed greater phospho-cPLA2 protein abundance than static cells; however, COX-2 protein expression was unaffected ( P = 0.064) by FSS. In microperfused CDs, COX inhibition enhanced flow-stimulated Na reabsorption and abolished flow-stimulated potassium (K) secretion, but did not affect ion transport at a slow flow rate, implicating that high tubular flow activates autocrine/paracrine PGE2 release and, in turn, regulates flow-stimulated cation transport. In conclusion, FSS activates cPLA2 to generate PGE2 that regulates flow-mediated Na and K transport in the native CD. We speculate that dietary sodium intake modulates tubular flow rate to regulate paracrine PGE2 release and cation transport in the CD.
Spatial attention enhances the selective integration of activity from area MT
Authors: Masse Nicolas Y. , Herrington Todd M. , Cook Erik P.
Published: June 2012

Distinguishing which of the many proposed neural mechanisms of spatial attention actually underlies behavioral improvements in visually guided tasks has been difficult. One attractive hypothesis is that attention allows downstream neural circuits to selectively integrate responses from the most informative sensory neurons. This would allow behavioral performance to be based on the highest-quality signals available in visual cortex. We examined this hypothesis by asking how spatial attention affects both the stimulus sensitivity of middle temporal (MT) neurons and their corresponding correlation with behavior. Analyzing a data set pooled from two experiments involving four monkeys, we found that spatial attention did not appreciably affect either the stimulus sensitivity of the neurons or the correlation between their activity and behavior. However, for those sessions in which there was a robust behavioral effect of attention, focusing attention inside the neuron's receptive field significantly increased the correlation between these two metrics, an indication of selective integration. These results suggest that, similar to mechanisms proposed for the neural basis of perceptual learning, the behavioral benefits of focusing spatial attention are attributable to selective integration of neural activity from visual cortical areas by their downstream targets.
Spatiotemporal dynamics of brain activity during the transition from visually guided to memory-guided force control
Authors: Poon Cynthia , Chin-Cottongim Lisa G. , Coombes Stephen A. , Corcos Daniel M. , Vaillancourt David E.
Published: June 2012

It is well established that the prefrontal cortex is involved during memory-guided tasks whereas visually guided tasks are controlled in part by a frontal-parietal network. However, the nature of the transition from visually guided to memory-guided force control is not as well established. As such, this study examines the spatiotemporal pattern of brain activity that occurs during the transition from visually guided to memory-guided force control. We measured 128-channel scalp electroencephalography (EEG) in healthy individuals while they performed a grip force task. After visual feedback was removed, the first significant change in event-related activity occurred in the left central region by 300 ms, followed by changes in prefrontal cortex by 400 ms. Low-resolution electromagnetic tomography (LORETA) was used to localize the strongest activity to the left ventral premotor cortex and ventral prefrontal cortex. A second experiment altered visual feedback gain but did not require memory. In contrast to memory-guided force control, altering visual feedback gain did not lead to early changes in the left central and midline prefrontal regions. Decreasing the spatial amplitude of visual feedback did lead to changes in the midline central region by 300 ms, followed by changes in occipital activity by 400 ms. The findings show that subjects rely on sensorimotor memory processes involving left ventral premotor cortex and ventral prefrontal cortex after the immediate transition from visually guided to memory-guided force control.
Handedness but not dominance influences variability in endurance time for sustained, submaximal contractions
Authors: Gordon Nicole M. , Rudroff Thorsten , Enoka Joel A. , Enoka Roger M.
Published: June 2012

The purpose of this study was to compare endurance time and accompanying neuromuscular adjustments when left- and right-handed subjects used the dominant and nondominant arms to sustain submaximal contractions that required either force or position control. Ten left-handed and 10 right-handed healthy adults (21 ± 5 yr) participated in the study. Each subject exerted a similar net torque about the elbow joint during the force and position tasks to achieve a target force of 20% maximal voluntary contraction (MVC) force (56 ± 18 N). MVC force declined to a similar level immediately after task failure for left- and right-handed subjects (27 ± 13 vs. 25 ± 15%, P = 0.9). Endurance time for the position task was similar for the dominant and nondominant arms (task × dominance interaction, P = 0.17). Although the difference in endurance time between the two tasks was similar for left-handed (136 ± 165 s) and right-handed individuals (92 ± 73 s, task × handedness interaction, P = 0.38), there was greater variance in the ratio of the endurance times for the force and position tasks for left-handed (0.77) than right-handed subjects (0.13, P < 0.001; see Fig. 2 ). Furthermore, endurance time for the force and position tasks was significantly correlated for right-handed subjects ( r2 = 0.62, P < 0.001), but not for left-handed subjects ( r2 = 0.004, P = 0.79). Multiple regression analyses identified sets of predictor variables for each endurance time, and these differed with handedness and task. Hand dominance, however, did not influence endurance time for either group of subjects. These findings indicate that endurance times for the elbow flexors when performing submaximal isometric contractions that required either force or position control were not influenced by hand dominance but did depend on handedness.
Uncoupling response inhibition
Authors: MacDonald Hayley J. , Stinear Cathy M. , Byblow Winston D.
Published: June 2012

The ability to prevent unwanted movement is fundamental to human behavior. When healthy adults must prevent a subset of prepared actions, execution of the remaining response is markedly delayed. We hypothesized that the delay may be sensitive to the degree of similarity between the prevented and continued actions. Fifteen healthy participants performed an anticipatory response inhibition task that required bilateral index finger extension or thumb abduction with homogeneous digit pairings, or a heterogeneous pairing of a combination of the two movements. We expected that the uncoupling of responses required for selective movement prevention would be more difficult with homogeneous (same digit, homologous muscles) than heterogeneous pairings (different digits, nonhomologous muscles). Measures of response times (and asynchrony between digits) during action execution, stopping performance, and electromyography from EIP (index finger extension) and APB (thumb abduction) were analyzed. As expected, selective trials produced a delay in the remaining movement compared with execution trials. Successful performance in the selective condition occurred via suppression of the entire prepared response and subsequent selective reinitiation of the remaining component. Importantly, the delayed reinitiation of motor output was sensitive to the degree of similarity between responses, occurring later but at a faster rate with homogeneous digits. There were persistent aftereffects from the selective condition on the motor system, which indicated greater levels of inhibition and a higher gain were necessary to successfully perform selective trials with homogeneous pairings. Overall, the results support a model of inhibition of a unitary response and selective reinitiation, rather than selective inhibition.
Quantitative Evaluation of Acetaminophen in Oral Solutions by Dispersive Raman Spectroscopy for Quality Control
Authors: Borio Viviane G. , Vinha Rubens , Nicolau Renata A. , de Oliveira Hueder Paulo M. , de Lima Carlos J. , Silveira Landulfo
Published: June 2012

This work used dispersive Raman spectroscopy to evaluate acetaminophen in commercially available formulations as an analytical methodology for quality control in the pharmaceutical industry. Raman spectra were collected using a near-infrared dispersive Raman spectrometer (830 nm, 50 mW, 20 s exposure time) coupled to a fiber optic probe. Solutions of acetaminophen diluted in excipient (70 to 120% of the commercial concentration of 200 mg/mL) were used to develop a calibration model based on partial least squares (PLSs) applied to Raman spectra of solutions and, subsequently, obtain linearity, accuracy, precision (repeatability), and sensitivity of the method using the near-infrared spectroscopy (NIRS) as a gold standard method. This model was used to predict the acetaminophen concentration in commercial samples from different lots of acetaminophen formulations (200 mg/mL) with a PLS-prediction error of about 0.6%. Commercial medicines had PLS predicted concentrations errors below 2.5%, whereas NIRS had an error of about 3.7% compared to the label concentration. It has been demonstrated the applicability of Raman spectroscopy with fiber probe for quality control in pharmaceutical industry of commercial formulations.
Interaction of Irbesartan with Bovine Hemoglobin Using Spectroscopic Techniques and Molecular Docking
Authors: Yang Ai-Ping , Ma Mei-Hua , Li Xiao-Hua , Xue Mao-Yun
Published: June 2012

The binding of irbesartan to bovine hemoglobin (BHb) has been investigated for the first time by using UV-Vis absorption, fluorescence, circular dichroism (CD), and molecular docking. The binding site numbernand binding constantKwere calculated to be 1 and , respectively. The alternations of protein secondary structure in the presence of irbesartan was demonstrated using CD spectroscopy. Furthermore, molecular docking indicated that irbesartan could bind to the site 2 of BHb. The analysis of the binding site of irbesartan within the BHb molecule suggested that hydrophobic interaction, hydrogen bond formation, and electrostatic interaction could account for the binding of irbesartan. The hydrogen bond of irbesartan with His87 in the C chain of BHb has been formed. The electrostatic energy, van der Waals energy, and binding free energy were calculated to be −460.3, −224.2, and−684.5 kcal, respectively.
AGN Triggering in the Infall Regions of Distant X-Ray Luminous Galaxy Clusters at0.9<z≲1.6
Authors: Fassbender R. , Šuhada R. , Nastasi A.
Published: June 2012

Observational constraints on the average radial distribution profile of AGN in distant galaxy clusters can provide important clues on the triggering mechanisms of AGN activity in dense environments and are essential for a completeness evaluation of cluster selection techniques in the X-ray and mm wavebands. The aim of this work is a statistical study with XMM-Newtonof the presence and distribution of X-ray AGN in the large-scale structure environments of 22 X-ray luminous galaxy clusters in the redshift range0.9<z≲1.6compiled by the XMM-NewtonDistant Cluster Project (XDCP). To this end, the X-ray point source lists from detections in the soft band (0.35–2.4 keV) and full band (0.3–7.5 keV) were stacked in cluster-centric coordinates and compared to average background number counts extracted from three independent control fields in the same observations. A significant full-band (soft-band) excess of ∼78 (67) X-ray point sources is found in the cluster fields within an angular distance of8′(4 Mpc) at a statistical confidence level of 4.0σ (4.2σ), corresponding to an average number of detected excess AGN per cluster environment of 3.5 ± 0.9 (3.0 ± 0.7). The data point towards a rising radial profile in the cluster region (r<1 Mpc) of predominantly low-luminosity AGN with an average detected excess of about one point source per system, with a tentative preferred occurrence along the main cluster elongation axis. A second statistically significant overdensity of brighter soft-band-detected AGN is found at cluster-centric distances of 4′–6′(2-3 Mpc), corresponding to about three times the average cluster radiusR200of the systems. If confirmed, these results would support the idea of two different physical triggering mechanisms of X-ray AGN activity in dependence of the radially changing large-scale structure environment of the distant clusters. For high-zcluster studies at lower spatial resolution with the upcoming eROSITA all-sky X-ray survey, the results suggest that cluster-associated X-ray AGN may impose a bias in the spectral analysis of high-zsystems, while their detection and flux measurements in the soft band may not be significantly affected.
Autoantibodies and Resident Renal Cells in the Pathogenesis of Lupus Nephritis: Getting to Know the Unknown
Authors: Yung Susan , Chan Tak Mao
Published: June 2012

Systemic lupus erythematosus is characterized by a breakdown of self-tolerance and production of autoantibodies. Kidney involvement (i.e., lupus nephritis) is both common and severe and can result in permanent damage within the glomerular, vascular, and tubulo-interstitial compartments of the kidney, leading to acute or chronic renal failure. Accumulating evidence shows that anti-dsDNA antibodies play a critical role in the pathogenesis of lupus nephritis through their binding to cell surface proteins of resident kidney cells, thereby triggering the downstream activation of signaling pathways and the release of mediators of inflammation and fibrosis. This paper describes the mechanisms through which autoantibodies interact with resident renal cells and how this interaction plays a part in disease pathogenesis that ultimately leads to structural and functional alterations in lupus nephritis.
Amiodarone-Induced Hypothyroidism Presenting as Cardiorenal Syndrome
Authors: Hardegree Evan L. , Albright Robert C.
Published: June 2012

Here we present the case of a 90-year-old man with chronic heart and renal failure who was admitted with what appeared to be a simple heart failure exacerbation. However, further investigation led to the diagnosis of profound amiodarone-induced hypothyroidism as the cause of his acute decompensation, highlighting the importance of a broad differential diagnosis and thorough investigation.
Synchrotron FTIR Microspectroscopy Study of the Striatum in 6-Hydroxydopamine Rat Model of Parkinson's Disease
Authors: Hongyan Zhu , Xiao Pei , Lingyan Wu , Bo Liu , Zeming Qi , Yuyin Wang
Published: June 2012

In the present study, synchrotron-based Fourier transform-infrared (FTIR) microspectroscopy is used to analyze the biochemical composition of the striatal neurons in normal and Parkinson's disease (PD) rat brain tissues. The rat model of Parkinson's disease is established by destroying the nigrostriatal pathway with 6-hydroxydopamine (6-OHDA). The detailed spectral analyses show the significant changes of cellular compositions such as lipids, and proteins in the striatal neurons of 6-OHDA-lesioned PD rats with respect to control neurons. As a result, the intensities of spectral absorption assigned to lipid of the striatal neurons in PD rats are higher than in control animals. Furthermore, the unsaturation levels of phospholipids decrease in PD neurons with respect to control neurons, indicating a high level of lipid peroxidation. The analysis of protein secondary structure shows the significantly higher ratio ofβ-sheet in PD neurons compared to that of control neurons, suggesting that the abnormal protein structure occurs before their morphological appearances in the striatal neurons. These findings suggest that the biochemical changes in neurons could be involved in the pathogenesis of Parkinson's disease.
Multispectroscopic Study of the Interaction of Chloramphenicol with Human Neuroglobin
Authors: Huang Lei , Li Lianzhi , Li Haili , Gao Chaohui , Cui Hui , Tan Xiangshi
Published: June 2012

The interaction between chloramphenicol (CHL) and neuroglobin (Ngb) has been investigated by using fluorescence, synchronous fluorescence, UV-Vis and circular dichroism (CD) spectroscopy. It has been found that CHL molecule can quench the intrinsic fluorescence of Ngb in a way of dynamic quenching mechanism, which was supported by UV-Vis spectral data. Their effective quenching constants (KSV) are2.2×104,2.6×104,and 3.1×104 L⋅mol−1at 298 K, 303 K, and 308 K, respectively. The enthalpy change (ΔH) and entropy change (ΔS) for this reaction are 26.42 kJ⋅mol−1and 171.7 J⋅K−1, respectively. It means that the hydrophobic interaction is the main intermolecular force of the interaction between CHL and Ngb. Synchronous fluorescence spectra showed that the microenvironment of tryptophan and tyrosine residues of Ngb has been changed slightly. The fluorescence quenching efficiency of CHL to tyrosine residues is a little bit more than that to tryptophan residues of Ngb. Furthermore, CD spectra indicated that CHL can induce the formation of α-helix of Ngb.
Analgesic and Anti-Inflammatory Activity ofPinus roxburghiiSarg.
Authors: Kaushik Dhirender , Kumar Ajay , Kaushik Pawan , Rana A. C.
Published: June 2012

The Chir Pine,Pinus roxburghii, named after William Roxburgh, is a pine native to the Himalaya.Pinus roxburghiiSarg. (Pinaceae) is traditionally used for several medicinal purposes in India. As the oil of the plant is extensively used in number of herbal preparation for curing inflammatory disorders, the present study was undertaken to assess analgesic and anti-inflammatory activities of its bark extract. Dried and crushed leaves ofPinus roxburghiiSarg. were defatted with petroleum ether and then extracted with alcohol. The alcoholic extract at the doses of 100 mg/kg, 300 mg/kg, and 500 mg/kg body weight was subjected to evaluation of analgesic and anti-inflammatory activities in experimental animal models. Analgesic activity was evaluated by acetic acid-induced writhing and tail immersion tests in Swiss albino mice; acute and chronic anti-inflammatory activity was evaluated by carrageenan-induced paw oedema and cotton pellet granuloma in Wistar albino rats. Diclofenac sodium and indomethacin were employed as reference drugs for analgesic and anti-inflammatory studies, respectively. In the present study, the alcoholic bark extract ofPinus roxburghiiSarg. demonstrated significant analgesic and anti-inflammatory activities in the tested models.
Volatile Chemicals of Adults and Nymphs of theEucalyptusPest,Thaumastocoris peregrinus(Heteroptera: Thaumastocoridae)
Authors: Martins Camila B. C. , Soldi Rafael A. , Barbosa Leonardo R. , Aldrich Jeffrey R. , Zarbin Paulo H. G.
Published: June 2012

Thaumastocoris peregrinusis an introduced “true bug” that is now a severe pest inEucalyptusplantations of various Southern Hemisphere countries. The semiochemicals of thaumastocorids are completely unknown. Therefore, volatile chemicals fromT. peregrinusnymphs and adults were identified as possible leads for pheromones potentially useful for control. The contents of nymphal exocrine glands, which are shed at molting, were identified from extracts of exuviae. Adults lack functional metathoracic scent glands that are characteristic of most heteropterans; however, both males and females possess a glandular-appearing hold-fast organ that they quickly extrude posteriorly when disturbed. Whole body hexane extracts from males and females were prepared by freezing the insects in a flask so that they extruded the hold-fast organ, and then they were extracted with hexane. Volatiles from nymphal exuviae included benzaldehyde, octanol, (E)-2-octenol, octanoic acid, decanal, and hexanoic acid. Adult volatiles included 3-methylbut-2-en-1-yl butyrate and 3-methylbut-3-en-1-yl butyrate.
Rapid Determination of Leaf Water Content Using VIS/NIR Spectroscopy Analysis with Wavelength Selection
Authors: Zhang Qianxuan , Li Qingbo , Zhang Guangjun
Published: June 2012

Water content in plants is one of the most common biochemical parameters limiting efficiency of photosynthesis and crop productivity. Therefore, it has very important meaning to predict the water content rapidly and nondestructively. The objective of this study was to investigate the feasibility of detecting the water content in the leaf using the diffuse reflectance spectra limited in the VIS/NIR region (400–1100 nm), which could be used to determine other biochemical parameters such as chlorophyll and nitrogen content. The experiment with leaves in different water stress was conducted. The statistical test result indicated that the determination of water content in leaf could be successfully performed by VIS/NIR spectroscopy combined with chemometrics method. The performances of different pretreatment methods were compared. The model with best performance was obtained from the first derivative spectra. In order to make the calibration model more parsimonious and stable, a hybrid wavelength selection method was proposed to extract the efficient feature wavelength. Under the optimal condition, an RMSEP of 0.73% with 25 variables was obtained for water content prediction using extern validation. The conclusions presented could lead to the development of portable instrument for synchronous detecting water content and other biochemical parameters rapidly and nondestructively.
Phospholipogenic Pharmaceuticals Are Associated with a Higher Incidence of Histological Findings than Nonphospholipogenic Pharmaceuticals in Preclinical Toxicology Studies
Authors: Barone Linda R. , Boyer Scott , Damewood James R. , Fikes James , Ciaccio Paul J.
Published: June 2012

While phospholipidosis is thought to be an adaptive response to chemical challenge, many phospholipogenic compounds are known to display adverse effects in preclinical species and humans. To investigate the link between phospholipogenic administration and incidence of preclinical histological signals, an internal AstraZenecain vivotoxicology report database was searched to identify phospholipogenic and nonphospholipogenic compounds. The datasets assembled comprised 46 phospholipogenic and 62 nonphospholipogenic compounds. The phospholipogenic potential of these compounds was confirmed by a pathologist's interpretation and was supported by well-validatedin silicoandin vitromodels. The phospholipogenic dataset contained 37 bases, 4 neutral compounds, 3 zwitterions, and 1 acid, whereas the nonphospholipogenic dataset contained 9 bases, 34 neutrals, 1 zwitterion, and 18 acids. Histologic findings were tracked for adrenal gland; bone marrow; kidney; liver; lung; lymph node; spleen; thymus; and reproductive organs. On average, plasma exposures were higher in animals dosed with the nonphospholipogenics. Phospholipogenics yielded proportionally more histologic changes (exclusive of phospholipidosis itself) in all organs. Statistically significant higher frequencies of liver necrosis, alveolitis/pneumonitis, as well as lymphocytolysis in the thymus, lymph nodes, and spleen occurred in response to phospholipogenics compared to that for nonphospholipogenics.
Degradation of Semiconductor Manufacturing Wastewater by Using a Novel Magnetic Composite TiO2/Fe3O4 Photoreactor Design
Authors: Chang Chen-Yu , Hsieh Yung-Hsu
Published: June 2012

The purpose of this research is to develop a photocatalytic TiO2 that can be activated by visible light and can be conveniently recollected for reusing. This research synthesizes the 20 to 40 nm TiO2/Fe3O4 particles with magnetization of 5.8 emu/g using the modified sol‐gel method followed by 500°C calcinations. The experiment verified that visible fluorescent light (VFL, contains no UV‐A) could activate the photocatalytic activity of TiO2/Fe3O4 particles as did ultraviolet A light (UV‐A, 360 nm). Regular magnets can be used to separate TiO2/Fe3O4 particles from solution. The results indicate that VFL‐sirradiated TiO2/Fe3O4 particles could decompose isopropanol (IPA) in the absence of UV‐A and the issue of TiO2/Fe3O4 recollection from water for reusing is also resolved.
Development of Miniaturized Fiber-Optic Laser Doppler Velocimetry Sensor for Measuring Local Blood Velocity: Measurement of Whole Blood Velocity in Model Blood Vessel Using a Fiber-Optic Sensor with a Convex Lens-Like Tip
Authors: Tajikawa Tsutomu , Ishihara Wataru , Kohri Shimpei , Ohba Kenkichi
Published: June 2012

A miniaturized fiber-optic laser Doppler velocimetry sensor has been developed to measure the local blood velocity in vivo. The laser beam emitted from the sensor tip can be focused at any distance between 0.1 and 0.5 mm from the tip. Consequently, the sensor has a sufficiently high signal-to-noise ratio to measure the local velocity in almost any opaque fluid, including blood. The sensor head is inserted in an injection needle or a catheter tube. In the former case, it is inserted at an angle to the wall of a vessel and is scanned across the vessel to measure the velocity distribution. In the latter case, it is aligned parallel with the flow in a vessel. For all flows of whole human blood, whole caprine blood, and 69% hematocrit of bovine blood, the velocity distribution across the vessel could be measured very accurately. The insertion angle of the fiber into the flow significantly affects the measurement accuracy; an angle of about 50° is suitable when an injection needle is used. When a catheter is employed, an insertion direction opposite to the flow direction is better than parallel to the flow due to the generation of a wake behind the fiber.
CdS Nanoparticles with a Thermoresponsive Polymer: Synthesis and Properties
Authors: Khan Aslam
Published: June 2012

This paper describes the synthesis of thermoresponsive colloidal nanocomposites based on CdS and poly(N‐isopropylacrylamide). The CdS nanoparticles were prepared at room temperature from cadmium chloride and sodium sulfide salts in the presence of an organic ligand, 3‐mercaptopropionic acid (MPA). The as‐prepared MPA‐bound CdS nanoparticles were stable for more than 30 days and exhibited good optical properties. The effect of various ratios of MPA/Cd2+ and H2O/DMF (dimethylformamide) on the particle size of the CdS nanoparticles was investigated using UV‐vis absorption measurements. Transmission electron microscopy studies showed that the particle sizes were approximately 4 nm in diameter, which is consistent with the size obtained using UV‐vis spectroscopy. The CdS nanocomposite showed a temperature‐responsive phenomenon as its temperature increased from 20 to 45°C.
Therapeutic Activity of Lenalidomide in Mantle Cell Lymphoma and Indolent Non-Hodgkin’s Lymphomas
Authors: Gunnellini Marco , Falchi Lorenzo
Published: June 2012

Mantle cell lymphoma (MCL) comprises 3–10% of NHL, with survival times ranging from 3 and 5 years. Indolent lymphomas represent approximately 30% of all NHLs with patient survival largely dependent on validated prognostic scores. High response rates are typically achieved in these patients with current first-line chemoimmunotherapy. However, most patients will eventually relapse and become chemorefractory with poor outcome. Alternative chemoimmunotherapy regimens are often used as salvage strategy and stem cell transplant remains an option for selected patients. However, novel approaches are urgently needed for patients no longer responding to conventional chemotherapy. Lenalidomide is an immunomodulatory drug with activity in multiple myeloma, myelodisplastic syndrome and chronic lymphoproliferative disorders. In phase II studies of indolent NHL and MCL lenalidomide has shown activity with encouraging response rates, both as a single agent and in combination with other drugs. Some of these responses may be durable. Optimal dose of lenalidomide has not been defined yet. The role of lenalidomide in the therapeutic armamentarium of patients with indolent NHL or MCL will be discussed in the present paper.
A Review of the Potential for Cardiometabolic Dysfunction in Youth with Spina Bifida and the Role for Physical Activity and Structured Exercise
Authors: Short Kevin R. , Frimberger Dominic
Published: June 2012

Children and adolescents who have decreased mobility due to spina bifida may be at increased risk for the components of metabolic syndrome, including abdominal obesity, insulin resistance, and dyslipidemia due to low physical activity. Like their nondisabled peers, adolescents with spina bifida that develop metabolic risk factors early in life have set the stage for adult disease. Exercise interventions can improve metabolic dysfunction in nondisabled youth, but the types of exercise programs that are most effective and the mechanisms involved are not known. This is especially true in adolescents with spina bifida, who have impaired mobility and physical function and with whom there have been few well-controlled studies. This paper highlights the current lack of knowledge about the role of physical activity and the need to develop exercise strategies targeting the reduction of cardiometabolic risk and improving quality of life in youth with spina bifida.
Delayed Interval Delivery of a Second Twin after the Preterm Labor of the First One in Twin Pregnancies: Delayed Delivery in Twin Pregnancies
Authors: Aydin Yunus , Celiloglu Murat
Published: June 2012

A diamnionic dichorionic twin pregnant women (due to in vitro fertilization) admitted to emergency department at the 21st week of gestation because of regular contractions. By gynecological examination, we observed 8 cm dilated cervix with 80% effacement. Amniotic membrane was also bulging through the cervix. After evaluation delivery of the presenting fetus occurred quickly. The baby’s weight was 610 gr and no heart activity was detected. Placenta of the first fetus expulsed immediately. We decided to retain the second fetus to allow the improvement in the outcome. McDonald cerclage was performed and the patient treated with tocolytics and antibiotics, and she was continuously monitored up to the 28th week of pregnancy. After she was discharged in the 28th week, she was controlled weekly in obstetrics clinic. At the 36th gestational week which was 101 days after the cerclage procedure, 3639 g male fetus was delivered with cesarean section and had an uneventful neonatal course. Delayed-interval delivery is useful and acceptable therapeutic option for the management of the remaining fetus in twin pregnancies even after the expulsion of the placenta. Antibiotic and tocolytic administration with cervical cerclage application can be associated with longer interdelivery interval.
A Cotton-Fiber-Associated Cyclin-Dependent Kinase A Gene: Characterization and Chromosomal Location
Authors: Gao Weifan , Saha Sukumar , Ma Din-Pow , Guo Yufang , Jenkins Johnie N. , Stelly David M.
Published: June 2012

A cotton fiber cDNA and its genomic sequences encoding an A-type cyclin-dependent kinase (GhCDKA) were cloned and characterized. The encoded GhCDKA protein contains the conserved cyclin-binding, ATP binding, and catalytic domains. Northern blot and RT-PCR analysis revealed that the GhCDKA transcript was high in 5–10 DPA fibers, moderate in 15 and 20 DPA fibers and roots, and low in flowers and leaves. GhCDKA protein levels in fibers increased from 5–15 DPA, peaked at 15 DPA, and decreased from 15 t0 20 DPA. The differential expression of GhCDKA suggested that the gene might play an important role in fiber development. The GhCDKA sequence data was used to develop single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) markers specific for the CDKA gene in cotton. A primer specific to one of the SNPs was used to locate the CDKA gene to chromosome 16 by deletion analysis using a series of hypoaneuploid interspecific hybrids.
Electronic Structure, Nonlinear Optical Properties, and Vibrational Analysis of Gemifloxacin by Density Functional Theory
Authors: Siddiqui Shamoon Ahmad , Rasheed Tabish , Faisal Mohd , Pandey Anoop Kumar , Khan Sher Bahadar
Published: June 2012

The non-linear optical properties of gemifloxacin (C18H20FN5O4) have been examined using density functional theory (DFT). The molecular HOMO, LUMO composition, their respective energy gaps, MESP contours/surfaces have also been drawn to explain the activity of gemifloxacin. The equilibrium geometries and harmonic frequencies of title molecule was determined and analyzed at DFT/B3LYP level employing the 6-31G(d,p) basis set. The skeleton of both the optimized molecules is non-planar. In general, a good agreement between experimental and calculated normal modes of vibrations has been observed.
Reactive Oxygen Species Formation and Apoptosis in Human Peripheral Blood Mononuclear Cell Induced by 900 MHz Mobile Phone Radiation
Authors: Lu Yao-Sheng , Huang Bao-Tian , Huang Yao-Xiong
Published: June 2012

We demonstrate that reactive oxygen species (ROS) plays an important role in the process of apoptosis in human peripheral blood mononuclear cell (PBMC) which is induced by the radiation of 900 MHz radiofrequency electromagnetic field (RFEMF) at a specific absorption rate (SAR) of~0.4 W/kg when the exposure lasts longer than two hours. The apoptosis is induced through the mitochondrial pathway and mediated by activating ROS and caspase-3, and decreasing the mitochondrial potential. The activation of ROS is triggered by the conformation disturbance of lipids, protein, and DNA induced by the exposure of GSM RFEMF. Although human PBMC was found to have a self-protection mechanism of releasing carotenoid in response to oxidative stress to lessen the further increase of ROS, the imbalance between the antioxidant defenses and ROS formation still results in an increase of cell death with the exposure time and can cause about 37% human PBMC death in eight hours.
Determination of Nanogram Quantities of Emodin in Pharmaceutical Preparations and Biofluids by Luminol-Myoglobin Chemiluminescence System
Authors: Zhang Yun , He Xili , Song Zhenghua
Published: June 2012

Based on the quenching effect of emodin on the luminol-myoglobin (Mb) reaction, a sensitive method for the determination of nanogram level emodin by flow injection chemiluminescence (FI-CL) is presented for the first time. It was found that the CL intensity from luminol-Mb system could be inhibited in the presence of emodin, and the decrement of CL intensity was linearly proportional to the logarithm of emodin concentration in the range of 0.5– (R= 0.9956) with the detection limit of (3σ). At a flow rate of , a complete determination of emodin, including sampling and washing, could be accomplished in 0.5 min with the relative standard deviations (RSDs) of less than 3.5% (n= 5). The proposed method was successfully applied to the determination of emodin in pharmaceutical preparations and human serum samples. The possible CL mechanism of luminol-Mb-emodin reaction was explained.
Recognition of MIR Data of Semen Armeniacae Amarum and Semen Persicae Using Discrete Wavelet Transformation and BP-Artificial Neural Network
Authors: Cheng Cun-Gui , Yu Peng , Wu Chang-Shun , Shou Jia-Ni
Published: June 2012

Horizontal attenuation total reflection-Fourier transformation infrared spectroscopy (HATR-FT-IR) is used to measure the Mid-IR (MIR) of semen armeniacae amarum and its confusable varieties semen persicae. In order to extrude the difference between semen armeniacae amarum and semen persicae, discrete wavelet transformation (DWT) is used to decompose the MIR of semen armeniacae amarum and semen persicae. Two main scales are selected as the feature extracting space in the DWT domain. According to the distribution of semen armeniacae amarum and semen persicae’s MIR, five feature regions are determined at every spectra band by selecting two scales in the DWT domain. Thus, ten feature parameters form the feature vector. The feature vector is input to the back-propagation artificial neural network (BP-ANN) to train so as to accurately classify the semen armeniacae amarum and semen persicae. 100 couples of MIR are used to train and test the proposed method, where 50 couples of data are used to train samples and other 50 couples of data are used to test samples. Experimental results show that the accurate recognition rate between semen armeniacae amarum and semen persicae is averaged 99% following the proposed method.
Descriptions of New Species of Leucotrichiinae (Trichoptera: Hydroptilidae) from Brazil
Authors: Thomson Robin E.
Published: June 2012

Two new species of Hydroptilidae (Trichoptera) from Brazil are described:Betrichia alibrachiasp. n. andLeucotrichia bicornutasp.n. Both genera are members of the subfamily Leucotrichiinae. Illustrations of male genitalia are provided with each description. These additions bring the total world fauna ofBetrichiato 9 species andLeucotrichiato 29 species.
Changes in Urinary and Sexual Function 6 Months after Cystocele Repair with a Polypropylene Mesh
Authors: Lee Dong Sup , Park Dong Choon , Choe Hyun-Sop , Choi Jin Bong , Lee Seung-Ju
Published: June 2012

Introduction: We used quantitative parameters obtained during the voiding phase, urinary symptoms and sexual functioning to investigate the symptomatic and functional changes after cystocele repair with a polypropylene mesh. Patients and Methods: The maximum urinary flow rate (Qmax), residual urine (RU) volume and two symptom questionnaires, the Urinary Distress Inventory (UDI-6) and the Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI), were used to retrospectively evaluate 39 consecutive cystocele patients before and 6 months after surgery. Results: Qmax, RU and FSFI were not significantly different (p = 0.366, 0.286 and 0.100, respectively) pre- and postoperatively, but the UDI-6 score had significantly improved (p < 0.001) 6 months after the cystocele repair. A concomitant sling procedure was significantly correlated with changes in the UDI-6 score (p < 0.001); the patients without stress urinary incontinence (SUI) who underwent cystocele repair only showed no symptomatic improvements in the UDI-6 score (p = 0.560). Conclusions: Correction of SUI resulted in urinary symptom improvement in cystocele patients. Cystocele repair with or without sling placement did not change Qmax, RU or sexual functioning at the 6-month follow-up.
Thulium Laser (Revolix) Vapoenucleation of the Prostate Is a Safe Procedure in Patients with an Increased Risk of Hemorrhage
Authors: Hauser Stefan , Rogenhofer Sebastian , Ellinger Jörg , Strunk Timo , Müller Stefan C. , Fechner Guido
Published: June 2012

Purpose: To evaluate the feasibility and safety of thulium:yttrium-aluminium-garnet laser vapoenucleation of the prostate (ThuVEP) in patients with chronic anticoagulation and bleeding disorders. Methods: We retrospectively analyzed the clinical data (transfusion rate, hemoglobin changes, residual urine, bleeding complications, complications and residual urine) of patients with chronic anticoagulation and bleeding disorders treated with ThuVEP. Anticoagulation was not paused for surgery. Results: We identified 39 patients who fulfilled the inclusion criteria (32 with chronic anticoagulation, 3 with bleeding disorder, and 4 with both). Mean preoperative hemoglobin was 12.9 g/l; the postoperative hemoglobin was 11.7 g/l. One patient received a blood transfusion. Mean residual urine was 166 ml preoperatively and 47 ml postoperatively, respectively; spontaneous voiding postoperatively was feasible in 36 patients. During follow-up, 5 patients suffered from gross hematuria, which was treated conservatively. Conclusions: ThuVEP is a safe procedure in patients with therapeutic anticoagulation, bleeding disorders and platelet aggregation inhibitor medication.
In vitro Antibacterial Activity of Chinfloxacin, a New Fluoroquinolone Antibiotic
Authors: Li Guo-Qing , Yuan Min , Yang Xin-Yi , Li Cong-Ran , Hu Xin-Xin , Zhang Wei-Xin , Lou Ren-Hui , Guo Hui-Yuan , You Xuan-Wang , Cen Shan , Jiang Jian-Dong , You Xue-Fu
Published: June 2012

Background: Chinfloxacin is a novel synthetic fluoroquinolone with a structure similar to moxifloxacin. The in vitro activity of chinfloxacin was evaluated in the current study. Method: Chinfloxacin was tested against a total of 1,739 clinical isolates representing 23 species using the agar dilution method. Studies of bactericidal activity, including minimum bactericidal concentrations (MBC) and time-kill curve determinations, were conducted according to the recommendations of the Clinical and Laboratory Standards Institute. Results: Minimum inhibitory concentrations (MIC)50s and MIC90s of chinfloxacin were found to be the same or 2-fold lower than those of moxifloxacin against gram-positive isolates except for Streptococcus pyogenes (against which chinfloxacin showed similar MIC50 as moxifloxacin but 2-fold higher MIC90), and the same as or 2-fold higher than those of moxifloxacin against gram-negative isolates. Chinfloxacin showed potent bactericidal activity with MBC/MIC ratios in the range of 1–2 for almost all the isolates tested. Time-kill curves further demonstrated chinfloxacin as a concentration-dependent bactericidal agent usually effective at concentrations of 2 MIC or higher. Conclusion: Chinfloxacin showed similar in vitro activity as moxifloxacin.
Rechargeable Deep Brain Stimulators in the Management of Paediatric Dystonia: Well Tolerated with a Low Complication Rate
Authors: Kaminska Margaret , Lumsden Daniel E. , Ashkan Keyoumars , Malik Irfan , Selway Richard , Lin Jean-Pierre
Published: June 2012

Background: Deep brain stimulation (DBS) is a recognised method of treatment for primary and secondary dystonia. The size of non-rechargeable batteries has limited their use in small children. Our severe dystonia patients have required battery replacement every 20–24 months. Objectives: To evaluate reliability, care burden, patients’ satisfaction and complications related to the rechargeable neurostimulator Activa® RC (launched by Medtronic in Europe in autumn 2008). Methods: Complications were recorded prospectively, and a questionnaire on neurostimulator maintenance, care burden and parental satisfaction was applied to all patients with at least 3 months of follow-up. Results: 30 Activa RCs were implanted between December 2008 and June 2010, 25 with a follow-up of 3–17 months (mean 10); the mean patient’s age at surgery was 11.1 years; 22/25 questionnaires were completed. All families achieved good standards of recharging. Caregivers were responsible for recharging in 82% of cases. With higher parameters of stimulation, recharging time was longer than initially recommended by the manufacturer. All but one family would recommend Activa RC to other patients. Transient recharging problems were the most common complication (36% of cases). Infection/skin erosion occurred in 8% of cases, self-resolving early seroma in 20%. Conclusions: Activa was found to offer reliable stimulation with a low rate of significant complications and a suitable treatment option for children with dystonia.
Early Skin-to-Skin Contact and Breast-Feeding Behavior in Term Neonates: A Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Thukral Anu , Sankar Mari Jeeva , Agarwal Ramesh , Gupta Nandita , Deorari Ashok K. , Paul Vinod K.
Published: June 2012

Aim: To evaluate if early skin-to-skin contact (SSC) improves breast-feeding (BF) behavior and exclusive BF (EBF) rates in term infants at 48 h of age. Methods: Term infants born by normal delivery were randomized at birth to either early SSC (n = 20) or conventional care (controls; n = 21). SSC was continued for at least 2 h after birth. Subsequently, one BF session of the infants was video recorded at about 48 h of life. The primary outcome, infants’ BF behavior at 48 h of life, was assessed using the modified infant Breast-Feeding Assessment Tool (BAT; a score consisting of infant’s readiness to feed, sucking, rooting and latching, each item scored from 0 to 3) by three independent masked observers. The secondary outcomes were EBF rates at 48 h and 6 weeks of age and salivary cortisol level of infants at 6 h of age. Results: Baseline characteristics including birth weight and gestation were comparable between the two groups. There was no significant difference in the BAT scores between the groups [median: 8, interquartile range (IQR) 5–10 vs. median 9, IQR 5–10; p = 0.6]. EBF rates at 48 h and at 6 weeks were, however, significantly higher in the early-SSC group than in the control group [95.0 vs. 38.1%; relative risk (RR): 2.5, 95% confidence interval (95% CI): 1.4–4.3 and 90 vs. 28.6%; RR: 3.2, 95% CI: 1.6–6.3]. Interpretation: Early SSC did not improve BF behavior at discharge but significantly improved the EBF rates of term neonates.
Diffusion Tensor Imaging to Aid Subgenual Cingulum Target Selection for Deep Brain Stimulation in Depression
Authors: Bhatia Kartik D. , Henderson Luke , Ramsey-Stewart George , May James
Published: June 2012

Background: The most investigated target for deep brain stimulation in depression is the subgenual cingulate gyrus (Cg25) which has been shown to be a critical hub for signalling in the condition. Diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) is a form of MR sequence that can visualise white matter connections and potentially aid target selection. Objectives: To assess whether targets selected using DTI to find the area of maximal tract crossover (maximal isotropy) underlying the subgenual cingulum differ significantly in location from those selected using standard T2 sequences. Methods: Fifty-nine non-depressed adult volunteers underwent MR imaging using T1, T2 and DTI sequences of the brain. Each patient had targets selected for both hemispheres using both T2 and DTI sequences. The significance of the differences in coordinates in all three dimensions was tested using the paired t test. Results: There was a significant difference in the mediolateral (x) and dorsoventral (z) coordinates of DTI targets when compared with T2 targets (p < 0.001). Conclusions: Targets within Cg25 selected using DTI are significantly different in location from those selected using T2 sequences and have the potential to enhance treatment outcome by reducing the impact of interindividual variability.