bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Insights into the Alteration of Osteoblast Mechanical Properties upon Adhesion on Chitosan
Authors: Moutzouri Antonia G. , Athanassiou George M.
Published: May 2014

Cell adhesion on substrates is accompanied by significant changes in shape and cytoskeleton organization, which affect subsequent cellular and tissue responses, determining the long-term success of an implant. Alterations in osteoblast stiffness upon adhesion on orthopaedic implants with different surface chemical composition and topography are, thus, of central interest in the field of bone implant research. This work aimed to study the mechanical response of osteoblasts upon adhesion on chitosan-coated glass surfaces and to investigate possible correlations with the level of adhesion, spreading, and cytoskeleton reorganization. Using the micropipette aspiration technique, the osteoblast elastic modulus was found higher on chitosan-coated than on uncoated control substrates, and it was found to increase in the course of spreading for both substrates. The cell-surface contact area was measured throughout several time points of adhesion to quantify cell spreading kinetics. Significant differences were found between chitosan and control surfaces regarding the response of cell spreading, while both groups displayed a sigmoidal kinetical behavior with an initially elevated spreading rate which stabilizes in the second hour of attachment. Actin filament structural changes were confirmed after observation with confocal microscope. Biomaterial surface modification can enhance osteoblast mechanical response and induce favorable structural organization for the implant integration.
Overall Performance Evaluation of Tubular Scraper Conveyors Using a TOPSIS-Based Multiattribute Decision-Making Method
Authors: Yao Yanping , Kou Ziming , Meng Wenjun , Han Gang
Published: May 2014

Properly evaluating the overall performance of tubular scraper conveyors (TSCs) can increase their overall efficiency and reduce economic investments, but such methods have rarely been studied. This study evaluated the overall performance of TSCs based on the technique for order of preference by similarity to ideal solution (TOPSIS). Three conveyors of the same type produced in the same factory were investigated. Their scraper space, material filling coefficient, and vibration coefficient of the traction components were evaluated. A mathematical model of the multiattribute decision matrix was constructed; a weighted judgment matrix was obtained using the DELPHI method. The linguistic positive-ideal solution (LPIS), the linguistic negative-ideal solution (LNIS), and the distance from each solution to the LPIS and the LNIS, that is, the approximation degrees, were calculated. The optimal solution was determined by ordering the approximation degrees for each solution. The TOPSIS-based results were compared with the measurement results provided by the manufacturer. The ordering result based on the three evaluated parameters was highly consistent with the result provided by the manufacturer. The TOPSIS-based method serves as a suitable evaluation tool for the overall performance of TSCs. It facilitates the optimal deployment of TSCs for industrial purposes.
Comparison of Two Analytical Platforms for CSF Biomarkers of Alzheimer’s Disease
Authors: Monge-Argilés Jose Antonio , Muñoz-Ruiz Carlos , Sánchez-Payá José , Gasparini Berenguer Ruth , Blanco Cantó Maria Empar , Leiva-Santana Carlos
Published: May 2014

Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) biomarkers of Alzheimer’s disease (AD) are currently being assessed with two different assays. Our objective was to study if there is a correlation between values obtained by both techniques, to compare their validity and search for conversion factor between values obtained for every protein. We compared the performances of two commonly used platforms, an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) and a multiplex (xMAP) technology for measurement of CSFAβ1–42, total tau (T-tau), and phosphorylated tau 181 (P-tau181p) proteins, in 30 AD patients and 28 control subjects. The relations between the variables of both techniques were evaluated using the Spearmanpcorrelation coefficient (α=0.05). Receiver operating characteristic and area under the curve (AUC) analyses were calculated for the variables of both techniques. The two assays platforms yielded different absolute values for the various analytes, always higher in ELISA. We found some correction factor between values: 2,1- to 3-fold forAβ1–42; 4,1- to 4,6-fold for T-tau; and 1,4- to 1,6-fold forP-tau181p. In addition, those values were highly correlated (Aβ1–42:r=0.70,P<0.01; T-tau:r=0.90,P<0.01;P-tau181p:r=0.85,P<0.01) and the AUC for the variables showed very similar values. In conclusion, the results obtained with ELISA and xMAP platforms were highly correlated and its validity is very similar. Differences in absolute values point to the need for a clear description of the technique used. Moreover, we found some conversion factor between values of every protein that may be useful for transformation between both techniques.
Evolution of Oxygen Deficiency Center on Fused Silica Surface Irradiated by Ultraviolet Laser and Posttreatment
Authors: Lü Hai-Bing , Xu Shi-Zhen , Wang Hai-Jun , Yuan Xiao-Dong , Zhao Chao , Fu Y. Q.
Published: May 2014

Evolution of oxygen deficiency centers (ODCs) on a fused silica surface irradiated using a 355 nm ultraviolet (UV) laser beam in both vacuum and atmospheric conditions was quantitatively studied using photoluminescence and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy. When the fusedsilica surface was exposed to the UV laser in vacuum, the laser damage threshold was decreased whereas the concentration of the ODCs was increased. For the fuse silica operated under the high power lasers, creation of ODCs on their surface resulted from the UV laser irradiation, and this is more severe in a high vacuum. The laser fluence and/or laser intensity have significant effects on the increase of the ODCs concentration. The ODCs can be effectively repaired using postoxygen plasma treatment and UV laser irradiation in an excessive oxygen environment. Results also demonstrated that the “gain” and “loss” of oxygen at the silica surface is a reversible and dynamic process.
Some Properties of Generalized Gegenbauer Matrix Polynomials
Authors: Yasmin Ghazala
Published: May 2014

Various new generalized forms of the Gegenbauer matrix polynomials are introduced using the integral representation method, which allows us to express them in terms of Hermite matrix polynomials. Certain properties for these new generalized Gegenbauer matrix polynomials such as recurrence relations and expansion in terms of Hermite matrix polynomials are derived. Further, several families of bilinear and bilateral generating matrix relations for these polynomials are established and their applications are presented.
Development of a Potential Probiotic Fresh Cheese Using TwoLactobacillus salivariusStrains Isolated from Human Milk
Authors: Cárdenas Nivia , Calzada Javier , Peirotén Ángela , Jiménez Esther , Escudero Rosa , Rodríguez Juan M. , Medina Margarita , Fernández Leónides
Published: May 2014

Cheeses have been proposed as a good alternative to other fermented milk products for the delivery of probiotic bacteria to the consumer. The objective of this study was to assess the survival of twoLactobacillus salivariusstrains (CECT5713 and PS2) isolated from human milk during production and storage of fresh cheese for 28 days at 4°C. The effect of such strains on the volatile compounds profile, texture, and other sensorial properties, including an overall consumer acceptance, was also investigated. BothL. salivariusstrains remained viable in the cheeses throughout the storage period and a significant reduction in their viable counts was only observed after 21 days. Globally, the addition of theL. salivariusstrains did not change significantly neither the chemical composition of the cheese nor texture parameters after the storage period, although cheeses manufactured withL. salivariusCECT5713 presented significantly higher values of hardness. A total of 59 volatile compounds were identified in the headspace of experimental cheeses, and someL. salivarius-associated differences could be identified. All cheeses presented good results of acceptance after the sensory evaluation. Consequently, our results indicated that fresh cheese can be a good vehicle for the twoL. salivariusstrains analyzed in this study.
Numerical Simulation of the Vibration Behavior of Curved Carbon Nanotubes
Authors: Imani Yengejeh Sadegh , Delgado João M. P. Q. , de Lima Antonio G. Barbosa , Öchsner Andreas
Published: May 2014

Several zigzag and armchair single-walled carbon nanotubes (CNTs) were modeled by a commercial finite element package and their vibrational behavior was studied. Numerous computational tests with different boundary conditions and different bending angles were performed. Both computational and analytical results were compared. It was shown that the computational results are in good agreement with the analytical calculations in the case of straight tubes. In addition, it was concluded that the natural frequency of straight armchair and zigzag CNTs increases by increasing the chiral number of both armchair and zigzag CNTs. It was also revealed that the natural frequency of CNTs with higher chirality decreases by introducing bending angles. Nevertheless, the influence of increasing bending angle on the natural frequency of armchair and zigzag CNTs with lower chiral number is almost negligible.
Evaluation of Plant Phenolic Metabolites as a Source of Alzheimer's Drug Leads
Authors: Hassaan Yara , Handoussa Heba , El-Khatib Ahmed H. , Linscheid Michael W. , El Sayed Nesrine , Ayoub Nahla
Published: May 2014

Epidemiological studies have proven an association between consumption of polyphenols and prevention of Alzheimer’s disease, the most common form of dementia characterized by extracellular deposition of amyloid beta plaques. The aim of this study is pharmacological screening of the aqueous alcohol extract ofMarkhamia platycalyxleaves,Schotia brachypetalaleaves and stalks, and piceatannol compared to aqueous alcohol extract ofCamellia sinensisleaves as potential Alzheimer’s disease drugs. LC-HRESI(-ve)-MSnwas performed to identify phenolics’ profile ofSchotia brachypetalastalks aqueous alcohol extract and revealed ten phenolic compounds as first report: daidzein, naringin, procyanidin isomers, procyanidin dimer gallate, quercetin 3-O-rhamnoside, quercetin 3-O-glucuronide, quercetin hexose gallic acid, quercetin hexose protocatechuic acid, and ellagic acid. Alzheimer’s disease was induced by a single intraperitoneal injection of LPS. Adult male Swiss albino mice were divided into groups of 8–10 mice each receiving treatment for six days.In vivobehavioral tests (Y maze and object recognition) andin vitroestimation of amyloid beta 42 by ELISA showed significant differences between results of treated and nontreated animals.
Asian Dust Particles Induce Macrophage Inflammatory Responses via Mitogen-Activated Protein Kinase Activation and Reactive Oxygen Species Production
Authors: Higashisaka Kazuma , Fujimura Maho , Taira Mayu , Yoshida Tokuyuki , Tsunoda Shin-ichi , Baba Takashi , Yamaguchi Nobuyasu , Nabeshi Hiromi , Yoshikawa Tomoaki , Nasu Masao , Yoshioka Yasuo , Tsutsumi Yasuo
Published: May 2014

Asian dust is a springtime meteorological phenomenon that originates in the deserts of China and Mongolia. The dust is carried by prevailing winds across East Asia where it causes serious health problems. Most of the information available on the impact of Asian dust on human health is based on epidemiological investigations, so from a biological standpoint little is known of its effects. To clarify the effects of Asian dust on human health, it is essential to assess inflammatory responses to the dust and to evaluate the involvement of these responses in the pathogenesis or aggravation of disease. Here, we investigated the induction of inflammatory responses by Asian dust particles in macrophages. Treatment with Asian dust particles induced greater production of inflammatory cytokines interleukin-6 and tumor necrosis factor-α(TNF-α) compared with treatment with soil dust. Furthermore, a soil dust sample containing only particles ≤10 μm in diameter provoked a greater inflammatory response than soil dust samples containing particles >10 μm. In addition, Asian dust particles-induced TNF-αproduction was dependent on endocytosis, the production of reactive oxygen species, and the activation of nuclear factor-κB and mitogen-activated protein kinases. Together, these results suggest that Asian dust particles induce inflammatory disease through the activation of macrophages.
A Development of Ethanol/Percarbonate Membraneless Fuel Cell
Authors: Priya M. , Arun A. , Elumalai M. , Kiruthika S. , Muthukumaran B.
Published: May 2014

The electrocatalytic oxidation of ethanol on membraneless sodium percarbonate fuel cell using platinum electrodes in alkaline-acidic media is investigated. In this cell, ethanol is used as the fuel and sodium percarbonate is used as an oxidant for the first time in an alkaline-acidic media. Sodium percarbonate generates hydrogen peroxide in aqueous medium. At room temperature, the laminar-flow-based microfluidic membraneless fuel cell can reach a maximum power density of 18.96 mW cm−2 with a fuel mixture flow rate of 0.3 mL min−2. The developed fuel cell features no proton exchange membrane. The simple planar structured membraneless ethanol fuel cell presents with high design flexibility and enables easy integration of the microscale fuel cell into actual microfluidic systems and portable power applications.
Structural Health Monitoring under Nonlinear Environmental or Operational Influences
Authors: Kullaa Jyrki
Published: May 2014

Vibration-based structural health monitoring is based on detecting changes in the dynamic characteristics of the structure. It is well known that environmental or operational variations can also have an influence on the vibration properties. If these effects are not taken into account, they can result in false indications of damage. If the environmental or operational variations cause nonlinear effects, they can be compensated using a Gaussian mixture model (GMM) without the measurement of the underlying variables. The number of Gaussian components can also be estimated. For the local linear components, minimum mean square error (MMSE) estimation is applied to eliminate the environmental or operational influences. Damage is detected from the residuals after applying principal component analysis (PCA). Control charts are used for novelty detection. The proposed approach is validated using simulated data and the identified lowest natural frequencies of the Z24 Bridge under temperature variation. Nonlinear models are most effective if the data dimensionality is low. On the other hand, linear models often outperform nonlinear models for high-dimensional data.
Psychometric Evaluation of the Chinese Version of the Patient Perceptions of Empowerment Scale (PPES)
Authors: Yeh Mei-Yu , Lin Sieh-Hwa , Tung Tao-Hsin
Published: May 2014

Objectives. To evaluate the psychometric properties of the Chinese version of the Patient Perceptions of Empowerment Scale (PPES) and to perform a cross-cultural validity assessment.Methods. In this cross-sectional survey, 554 inpatients in three general hospitals in northern Taiwan were recruited. Principal component analysis was used to examine the factor structure of the scale. Confirmatory factor analyses were conducted on the measurement model of the Chinese version of the PPES.Results. Confirmatory factor analyses supported the presence of a second-order four-factor model (information, decision, individual, and self-management) of the Chinese version of the PPES when used with a Taiwanese inpatient population. The results indicate that the 11-item, second-order, four-factor Chinese version of the PPES provided best goodness-of-fit for the data in this study.Conclusion. The 11-item four-factor Chinese version of the PPES is a self-completion scale. This study demonstrated that the Chinese version of the PPES is a reliable and valid self-report instrument for the assessment of patient perceptions of empowerment in clinical practice. Further adaptation and evaluation of the scale will hopefully stimulate further studies on PPES in the fields of psychometrics in Taiwan.
CD8+DR+ T-Cells and C3 Complement Serum Concentration as Potential Biomarkers in Thrombotic Antiphospholipid Syndrome
Authors: Sarmiento Elizabeth , Dale Jonathan , Arraya Mauricio , Gallego Antonio , Lanio Nallibe , Navarro Joaquin , Carbone Javier
Published: May 2014

Purpose. To assess complement factors and T lymphocyte activation subset abnormalities in patients with thrombotic antiphospholipid syndrome (APS) as potential biomarkers for development of clinical complications.Methods. We assessed C3, C4, factor B concentrations (nephelometry), complement haemolytic functional activity (CH100, radial immune diffusion), and the activation status of CD4+ and CD8+ T-cells (three-colour flow cytometry) in patients with thrombotic APS. Antiphospholipid (aPL) positive patients without APS-related clinical criteria, systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) patients, and healthy individuals were evaluated as controls. A clinical followup was performed to assess the potential relationship between the immunological parameters and development of APS-related complications.Results. Lower concentrations of C3 and higher levels of CD8+DR+ cells were risk factors for development of APS-related complications during followup, including rethrombosis and neuropsychiatric symptoms. Patients with diagnosed thrombotic APS had significantly lower levels of C3, C4, and CH100 as well as higher percentages of activated CD4+DR+ and of CD8+DR+ T-cells than healthy controls but similar to that observed in autoimmune disease controls.Conclusion. Lower C3 and C4 complement levels and higher percentages of CD8+DR+ T-cells were observed in thrombotic APS patients. The potential role of these abnormalities as biomarkers of clinical outcome warrants further evaluation in a multicenter study.
Effects of Posteroanterior Thoracic Mobilization on Heart Rate Variability and Pain in Women with Fibromyalgia
Authors: Reis Michel Silva , Durigan João Luiz Quagliotti , Arena Ross , Rossi Bruno Rafael Orsini , Mendes Renata Gonçalves , Borghi-Silva Audrey
Published: May 2014

Fibromyalgia (FM) has been associated with cardiac autonomic abnormalities and pain. Heart rate variability (HRV) is reduced in FM with autonomic tone dominated by sympathetic activity. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effects of one session of a posteroanterior glide technique on both autonomic modulation and pain in woman with FM. This was a controlled trial with immediate followup; twenty premenopausal women were allocated into 2 groups: (i) women diagnosed with FM(n=10)and (ii) healthy women(n=10). Both groups received one session of Maitland mobilization grade III posteroanterior central pressure glide, at 2 Hz for 60 s at each vertebral segment. Autonomic modulation was assessed by HRV and pain by a numeric pain scale before and after the intervention. For HRV analyses, heart rate and RR intervals were recorded for 10 minutes. FM subjects demonstrated reduced HRV compared to controls. Although the mobilization technique did not significantly reduce pain, it was able to improve HRV quantified by an increase in rMSSD and SD1 indices, reflecting an improved autonomic profile through increased vagal activity. In conclusion, women with FM presented with impaired cardiac autonomic modulation. One session of Maitland spine mobilization was able to acutely improve HRV.
Effect of Shear on Ultrasonic Flow Measurement Using Nonaxisymmetric Wave Modes
Authors: Chen Yong , Huang Yiyong , Chen Xiaoqian , Hu Dengpeng
Published: May 2014

Nonaxisymmetric wave propagation in an inviscid fluid with a pipeline shear flow is investigated. Mathematical equation is deduced from the conservations of mass and momentum, leading to a second-order differential equation in terms of the acoustic pressure. Meanwhile a general boundary condition is formulated to cover different types of wall configurations. A semianalytical method based on the Fourier-Bessel theory is provided to transform the differential equation to algebraic equations. Numerical analysis of phase velocity and wave attenuation in water is addressed in the laminar and turbulent flow. Meanwhile comparison among different kinds of boundary condition is given. In the end, the measurement performance of an ultrasonic flow meter is demonstrated.
Effect of Ca2+Efflux Pathway Distribution and Exogenous Ca2+Buffers on Intracellular Ca2+Dynamics in the Rat Ventricular Myocyte: A Simulation Study
Authors: Pásek Michal , Šimurda Jiří , Orchard Clive H.
Published: May 2014

We have used a previously published computer model of the rat cardiac ventricular myocyte to investigate the effect of changing the distribution of Ca2+efflux pathways (SERCA, Na+/Ca2+exchange, and sarcolemmal Ca2+ATPase) between the dyad and bulk cytoplasm and the effect of adding exogenous Ca2+buffers (BAPTA or EGTA), which are used experimentally to differentially buffer Ca2+in the dyad and bulk cytoplasm, on cellular Ca2+cycling. Increasing the dyadic fraction of a particular Ca2+efflux pathway increases the amount of Ca2+removed by that pathway, with corresponding changes in Ca2+efflux from the bulk cytoplasm. The magnitude of these effects varies with the proportion of the total Ca2+removed from the cytoplasm by that pathway. Differences in the response to EGTA and BAPTA, including changes in Ca2+-dependent inactivation of the L-type Ca2+current, resulted from the buffers acting as slow and fast “shuttles,” respectively, removing Ca2+from the dyadic space. The data suggest that complex changes in dyadic Ca2+and cellular Ca2+cycling occur as a result of changes in the location of Ca2+removal pathways or the presence of exogenous Ca2+buffers, although changing the distribution of Ca2+efflux pathways has relatively small effects on the systolic Ca2+transient.
An Experimental Study of Flow Behavior of Coiled Tubing Drilling System
Authors: Guan Feng , Ma Weiguo , Tu Yiliu , Zhou Chuanxi , Feng Ding , Zhou Bo
Published: May 2014

Coiled tubing drilling has become an important development direction of drilling. The method of combining theoretical calculation with the experimental verification is adopted to analyze the flow of the coiled tubing drilling system. A set of experimental bench is developed, three kinds of curvature ratio of coiled tubing are used, and the frictional pressure losses of coiled tubing and partial pressure drop of each downhole tool are tested. The results of experiments with water agree well with rough pipe calculation model. The pressure losses of coiled tube are obviously larger than that of straight tube, and the value of it is about 11–17%. The larger the curvature ratio is, the more the pressure losses of coiled tubing are. The fluid experiment with the polymer presents obviously the drag reduction effect. Experiment of simulated bottom hole assembly shows that partial pressure drop of bottom hole assembly is large. It has a little effect on the pressure losses of coiled tubing when whole bottom hole assemblies are connected. The research results can be used as the basis for formulating coiled tubing drilling process parameters, which will provide a guide for engineering practice.
Intrinsic Functional Connectivity Networks in Healthy Elderly Subjects: A Multiparametric Approach with Structural Connectivity Analysis
Authors: Gorges Martin , Müller Hans-Peter , Ludolph Albert C. , Rasche Volker , Kassubek Jan
Published: May 2014

Intrinsic functional connectivity magnetic resonance imaging (iFCMRI) provides an encouraging approach for mapping large-scale intrinsic connectivity networks (ICNs) in the “resting” brain. Structural connections as measured by diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) are a major constraint on the identified ICNs. This study aimed at the combined investigation of ten well-defined ICNs in healthy elderly subjects at single subject level as well as at the group level, together with the underlying structural connectivity. IFCMRI and DTI data were acquired in twelve subjects (68 ± 7 years) at a 3T scanner and were studied using thetensor imaging and fiber trackingsoftware package. The seed-based iFCMRI analysis approach was comprehensively performed with DTI analysis, following standardized procedures including an 8-step processing of iFCMRI data. Our findings demonstrated robust ICNs at the single subject level and conclusive brain maps at the group level in the healthy elderly sample, supported by the complementary fiber tractography. The findings demonstrated here provide a methodological framework for future comparisons of pathological (e.g., neurodegenerative) conditions with healthy controls on the basis of multiparametric functional connectivity mapping.
Design, Modeling, and Analysis of a Novel Microgripper Based on Flexure Hinges
Authors: Wu Zhigang , Li Yangmin
Published: May 2014

A new 2-DOF microgripper, which can perform the processing of the objects assembly and biological cells injection, is designed and modeled in this paper. The clamping action of the microgripper with the x direction is completed, however, when anything is clamped by the end effector, which can be completely driven by an actuator generated in y direction, at lastclamping and pushing motion are realized. The flexure hinge, which takes place of the conventional joint, is used as the translational and rotational hinges in the new structure. Otherwise, the whole microgripper is monolithic processing, which can efficiently overcome the disadvantages of the conventional hinge with friction, backlash, anderrors caused by the hinge assembly. Firstly, a kind of novel microgripper is designed in this paper, which can accomplish two-dimensional independent motions including a separate grip and single track push without interfering with each other. The bridge type amplifying structure with two-end output is adopted in the gripper to increase the motion range and the capacity of the microgripper. The piezoelectric actuator with fast response and high resolution is used as the drive element. Secondly, the geometrical and kinematical models are established and the formulas of the amplifying ratio, stiffness, maximum stress, and the natural frequency of this model are calculated, respectively. Finally, the FEM (finite element modeling) based on ANSYS software is built up to validate the formulas.
Evaluating the Effects and Safety of Intravenous Lipid Emulsion on Haloperidol-Induced Neurotoxicity in Rabbit
Authors: Moshiri Mohammad , Mohammadpour Amir Hooshang , Vahabzadeh Maryam , Etemad Leila , Memar Bahram , Hosseinzadeh Hossein
Published: May 2014

There are many reports on the effect of intravenous lipid emulsion (ILE) as an antidote in drugs related toxicities. We determined the effects of ILE on neurotoxicity of haloperidol (HA), a highly lipophilic antipsychotic, as a model of antipsychotics poisoning. We used six groups of five male rabbits. Two groups received distilled water intravenously followed by infusions of either 18 mL/kg of normal saline or ILE 20%, after 30 minutes. The third group received 18 mL/kg of normal saline after HA (2.6 mg/kg) administration. The three other groups received ILE 20% solution (6, 12, and 18 mL/kg) following HA injection. Catalepsy scores, temperature, pupil size, and mortality rate were measured at 0, 0.5, 1, 2, 3, 4, 8, and 24 hours after HA administration began. Blood and tissue samples were taken from all animals at 24 hours or at death time for biochemical, cell count, and pathological studies. ILE reversed cataleptic scores, miotic pupils, and hypothermia of HA intoxication much faster than normal saline (P<0.001). Biochemical complications and mortality rate of the animals were significantly higher in the HA + 18 mL/Kg ILE group. ILE reversed sings of HA neurotoxicity; however, synergistic effect of high dose of ILE and HA increased complications and mortality.
Active-Margin Transmission Power Control for Wireless Sensor Networks
Authors: Son Byung-Hee , Kim Kwang-Jin , Li Ye , Choi Young-Wan
Published: May 2014

An effective transmission power control (TPC) method is proposed and demonstrated, in which an appropriate active margin is directly applied rather than a step-by-step margin as in the conventional TPC method. Active-margin transmission power control (AM-TPC) is based on an algorithm that selects an optimized transmission power by considering the channel conditions in mobile environments. For obtaining the optimal transmission power, effective minimum detectable signal (EMDS) has been introduced which considers the change both in the channel noise and in the path loss (PL) dispersion caused by multipath fading. The transmission power is determined by the EMDS and active margin to improve the efficiency of the communication. The AM-TPC improves the reliability and reduces the power consumption, because it prevents unnecessary retransmission by reducing the number of error packets. By using the AM-TPC in mobile environments, we have experimentally obtained 28.3% reduction in current consumption when compared with using maximum power transmission.
TheMagnoliaBioactive Constituent 4-O-Methylhonokiol Protects against High-Fat Diet-Induced Obesity and Systemic Insulin Resistance in Mice
Authors: Zhang Zhiguo , Chen Jing , Jiang Xin , Wang Jian , Yan Xiaoqing , Zheng Yang , Conklin Daniel J. , Kim Ki-Soo , Kim Ki Ho , Tan Yi , Kim Young Heui , Cai Lu
Published: May 2014

Obesity is caused by a combination of both genetic and environmental risks. Disruption in energy balance is one of these risk factors. In the present study, the preventive effect on high-fat diet- (HFD-) induced obesity and insulin resistance in mice byMagnoliabioactive constituent 4-O-methylhonokiol (MH) was compared withMagnolia officinalisextract BL153. C57BL/6J mice were fed by normal diet or by HFD with gavage-administered vehicle, BL153, low-dose MH, and high-dose MH simultaneously for 24 weeks, respectively. Either MH or BL153 slightly inhibited body-weight gain of mice by HFD feeding although the food intake had no obvious difference. Body fat mass and the epididymal white adipose tissue weight were also mildly decreased by MH or BL153. Moreover, MH significantly lowered HFD-induced plasma triglyceride, cholesterol levels and activity of alanine transaminase (ALT), liver weight and hepatic triglyceride level, and ameliorated hepatic steatosis. BL153 only significantly reduced ALT and liver triglyceride level. Concurrently, low-dose MH improved HFD-induced hyperinsulinemia and insulin resistance. Furthermore, the infiltration of mast cells in adipose tissue was decreased in MH or in BL153 treatment. These results suggested thatMagnoliabioactive constituent MH might exhibit potential benefits for HFD-induced obesity by improvement of lipid metabolism and insulin resistance.
Inhibition of miR-17 and miR-20a by Oridonin Triggers Apoptosis and Reverses Chemoresistance by Derepressing BIM-S
Authors: Weng Hengyou , Huang Huilin , Dong Bowen , Zhao Panpan , Zhou Hui , Qu Lianghu
Published: May 2014

Cancer cell chemoresistance arises in part through the acquisition of apoptotic resistance. Leukemia cells resistant to chemotherapy-induced apoptosis have been found to be sensitive to oridonin, a natural agent with potent anticancer activity. To investigate its mechanisms of action in reversing chemoresistance, we compared the response of human leukemia cells with oridonin and the antileukemia drugs Ara-C and VP-16. Compared with HL60 cells, K562 and K562/ADR cells displayed resistance to apoptosis stimulated by Ara-C and VP-16 but sensitivity to oridonin. Mechanistic investigations revealed that oridonin upregulated BIM-S by diminishing the expression of miR-17 and miR-20a, leading to mitochondria-dependent apoptosis. In contrast, neither Ara-C nor VP-16 could reduce miR-17 and miR-20a expression or could trigger BIM-S–mediated apoptosis. Notably, silencing miR-17 or miR-20a expression by treatment with microRNA (miRNA; miR) inhibitors or oridonin restored sensitivity of K562 cells to VP-16. Synergistic effects of oridonin and VP-16 were documented in cultured cells as well as mouse tumor xenograft assays. Inhibiting miR-17 or miR-20a also augmented the proapoptotic activity of oridonin. Taken together, our results identify a miRNA-dependent mechanism underlying the anticancer effect of oridonin and provide a rationale for its combination with chemotherapy drugs in addressing chemoresistant leukemia cells. Cancer Res; 74(16); 4409–19. ©2014 AACR.
hMOB3 Modulates MST1 Apoptotic Signaling and Supports Tumor Growth in Glioblastoma Multiforme
Authors: Tang Fengyuan , Zhang Lei , Xue Gongda , Hynx Debby , Wang Yuhua , Cron Peter D. , Hundsrucker Christian , Hergovich Alexander , Frank Stephan , Hemmings Brian A. , Schmitz-Rohmer Debora
Published: May 2014

New therapeutic targets are needed that circumvent inherent therapeutic resistance of glioblastoma multiforme (GBM). Here, we report such a candidate target in the uncharacterized adaptor protein hMOB3, which we show is upregulated in GBM. In a search for its biochemical function, we found that hMOB3 specifically interacts with MST1 kinase in response to apoptotic stimuli and cell–cell contact. Moreover, hMOB3 negatively regulated apoptotic signaling by MST1 in GBM cells by inhibiting the MST1 cleavage-based activation process. Physical interaction between hMOB3 and MST1 was essential for this process. In vivo investigations established that hMOB3 sustains GBM cell growth at high cell density and promotes tumorigenesis. Our results suggest hMOB3 as a candidate therapeutic target for the treatment of malignant gliomas. Cancer Res; 74(14); 3779–89. ©2014 AACR.
Episomal Expression of Truncated Listeriolysin O in LmddA-LLO–E7 Vaccine Enhances Antitumor Efficacy by Preferentially Inducing Expansions of CD4+FoxP3− and CD8+ T Cells
Authors: Chen Zhisong , Ozbun Laurent , Chong Namju , Wallecha Anu , Berzofsky Jay A. , Khleif Samir N.
Published: May 2014

Studies have shown that Listeria monocytogenes (Lm)–based vaccine expressing a fusion protein comprising truncated listeriolysin O (LLO) and human papilloma virus (HPV) E7 protein (Lm-LLO–E7) induces a decrease in regulatory T cells (Treg) and complete regression of established, transplanted HPV-TC-1 tumors in mice. However, how the Lm-based vaccine causes a decrease in Tregs remains unclear. Using a highly attenuated Lm dal dat ΔactA strain (LmddA)–based vaccine, we report here that the vector LmddA was sufficient to induce a decrease in the proportion of Tregs by preferentially expanding CD4+FoxP3− T cells and CD8+ T cells by a mechanism dependent on and directly mediated by LLO. Episomal expression of a nonhemolytic truncated LLO in Lm (LmddA-LLO) significantly augmented the expansion, thus further decreasing Treg frequency. Although adoptive transfer of Tregs compromised the antitumor efficacy of the LmddA-LLO–E7 vaccine, a combination of LmddA-LLO and an Lm-based vaccine expressing E7 protein (Lm–E7) induced complete regression against established TC-1 tumors. An engineered LLO-minus Lm expressing perfringolysin O (PFO) that enables the recombinant bacteria to exit from the phagolysosome without LLO confirmed that the adjuvant effect was dependent on LLO. These results suggest that LLO may serve as a promising adjuvant by preferentially inducing the expansions of CD4+FoxP3− T cells and CD8+ T cells, thus reducing the ratio of Tregs to CD4+FoxP3− T cells and to CD8+ T cells favoring immune responses to eradicate tumor. Cancer Immunol Res; 2(9); 911–22. ©2014 AACR.
In VitroCharacterization of the Anti-PD-1 Antibody Nivolumab, BMS-936558, andIn VivoToxicology in Non-Human Primates
Authors: Wang Changyu , Thudium Kent B. , Han Minhua , Wang Xi-Tao , Huang Haichun , Feingersh Diane , Garcia Candy , Wu Yi , Kuhne Michelle , Srinivasan Mohan , Singh Sujata , Wong Susan , Garner Neysa , Leblanc Heidi , Bunch R. Todd , Blanset Diann , Selby Mark J. , Korman Alan J.
Published: May 2014

The programmed death-1 (PD-1) receptor serves as an immunologic checkpoint, limiting bystander tissue damage and preventing the development of autoimmunity during inflammatory responses. PD-1 is expressed by activated T cells and downmodulates T-cell effector functions upon binding to its ligands, PD-L1 and PD-L2, on antigen-presenting cells. In patients with cancer, the expression of PD-1 on tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes and its interaction with the ligands on tumor and immune cells in the tumor microenvironment undermine antitumor immunity and support its rationale for PD-1 blockade in cancer immunotherapy. This report details the development and characterization of nivolumab, a fully human IgG4 (S228P) anti-PD-1 receptor-blocking monoclonal antibody. Nivolumab binds to PD-1 with high affinity and specificity, and effectively inhibits the interaction between PD-1 and its ligands. In vitro assays demonstrated the ability of nivolumab to potently enhance T-cell responses and cytokine production in the mixed lymphocyte reaction and superantigen or cytomegalovirus stimulation assays. No in vitro antibody-dependent cell-mediated or complement-dependent cytotoxicity was observed with the use of nivolumab and activated T cells as targets. Nivolumab treatment did not induce adverse immune-related events when given to cynomolgus macaques at high concentrations, independent of circulating anti-nivolumab antibodies where observed. These data provide a comprehensive preclinical characterization of nivolumab, for which antitumor activity and safety have been demonstrated in human clinical trials in various solid tumors. Cancer Immunol Res; 2(9); 846–56. ©2014 AACR.
Junctional Cleft [Ca
2+
]
i
Measurements Using Novel Cleft-Targeted Ca
2+
Sensors
Authors: Despa Sanda , Shui Bo , Bossuyt Julie , Lang Di , Kotlikoff Michael I. , Bers Donald M.
Published: May 2014

Rationale
:

Intracellular Ca
2+
concentration ([Ca
2+
]
i
) is regulated and signals differently in various subcellular microdomains, which greatly enhances its second messenger versatility. In the heart, sarcoplasmic reticulum Ca
2+
release and signaling are controlled by local [Ca
2+
]
i
in the junctional cleft ([Ca
2+
]
Cleft
), the small space between sarcolemma and junctional sarcoplasmic reticulum. However, methods to measure [Ca
2+
]
Cleft
directly are needed.

Objective
:

To construct novel sensors that allow direct measurement of [Ca
2+
]
Cleft
.

Methods and Results
:

We constructed cleft-targeted [Ca
2+
] sensors by fusing Ca
2+
-sensor GCaMP2.2 and a new lower Ca
2+
-affinity variant GCaMP2.2Low to FKBP12.6, which binds with high affinity and selectivity to ryanodine receptors. The fluorescence pattern, affinity for ryanodine receptors, and competition by untagged FKBP12.6 demonstrated that FKBP12.6-tagged sensors are positioned to measure local [Ca
2+
]
Cleft
in adult rat myocytes. Using GCaMP2.2Low-FKBP12.6, we showed that [Ca
2+
]
Cleft
reaches higher levels with faster kinetics than global [Ca
2+
]
i
during excitation–contraction coupling. Diastolic sarcoplasmic reticulum Ca
2+
leak or sarcolemmal Ca
2+
entry may raise local [Ca
2+
]
Cleft
above bulk cytosolic [Ca
2+
]
i
([Ca
2+
]
Bulk
), an effect that may contribute to triggered arrhythmias and even transcriptional regulation. We measured this diastolic standing [Ca
2+
]
Cleft
–[Ca
2+
]
Bulk
gradient with GCaMP2.2-FKBP12.6 versus GCaMP2.2, using [Ca
2+
] measured without gradients as a reference point. This diastolic difference ([Ca
2+
]
Cleft
=194 nmol/L versus [Ca
2+
]
Bulk
=100 nmol/L) is dictated mainly by the sarcoplasmic reticulum Ca
2+
leak rather than sarcolemmal Ca
2+
flux.

Conclusions
:

We have developed junctional cleft-targeted sensors to measure [Ca
2+
]
Cleft
versus [Ca
2+
]
Bulk
and demonstrated dynamic differences during electric excitation and a standing diastolic [Ca
2+
]
i
gradient, which could influence local Ca
2+
-dependent signaling within the junctional cleft.
Delay in Filling First Clopidogrel Prescription After Coronary Stenting Is Associated With an Increased Risk of Death and Myocardial Infarction
Authors: Cruden Nicholas L. , Din Jehangir N. , Janssen Christian , Smith Reginald , Hilton J. David , Klinke W. Peter , Carere Ron G. , Robinson Simon D. , Siega Anthony Della
Published: May 2014

Background

Patients frequently experience difficulties with medication compliance after hospital discharge. We investigated the effect of a delay in filling a first clopidogrel prescription after hospital discharge on clinical outcomes subsequent to coronary stenting.

Methods and Results

Hospital administrative, community pharmacy, and cardiac revascularization data were determined for all patients receiving a coronary stent in British Columbia 2004–2006 with follow‐up out to 2 years. Cox's proportional hazard regression analysis, adjusting for baseline demographics and procedural variables, was performed to examine the effects of delay in filling a clopidogrel prescription after hospital discharge on clinical outcomes.

Of 15 629 patients treated with coronary stents, 3599 received at least 1 drug‐eluting stent (
DES
), whereas 12 030 received bare metal stents (
BMS
) alone. In total, 1064 (30%) and 3758 (31%) patients in the
DES
and
BMS
groups, respectively, failed to fill a prescription within 3 days of discharge (median, 1 day; interquartile range [
IQR],
1 to 3). After regression analysis, a delay of >3 days was predictive of mortality and recurrent myocardial infarction (
MI
) irrespective of stent type (
DES
: hazard ratio [
HR],
2.4; 95% confidence interval [
CI],
1.7 to 3.4; and
HR,
2.0; 95%
CI,
1.5 to 2.7, respectively, and
BMS
:
HR,
2.2; 95%
CI,
1.9 to 2.6; and
HR,
1.8; 95%
CI,
1.5 to 2.1, respectively). This excess hazard was greatest in the 30‐day period immediately after hospital discharge (mortality:
HR,
5.5; 95%
CI,
3.5 to 8.6; and
MI
:
HR,
3.1; 95%
CI,
2.4 to 4.0, for all patients).

Conclusions

Delays in patients filling their first prescription for clopidogrel after coronary stenting are common and associated with adverse clinical outcomes, irrespective of stent type. Strategies to reduce delays have the potential to improve clinical outcomes.
Severity of Cardiovascular Disease Outcomes Among Patients With HIV Is Related to Markers of Inflammation and Coagulation
Authors: Nordell Anna D. , McKenna Matthew , Borges Álvaro H. , Duprez Daniel , Neuhaus Jacqueline , Neaton James D. ,   the INSIGHT SMART, ESPRIT Study Groups, and SILCAAT Scientific Committee
Published: May 2014

Background

In the general population, raised levels of inflammatory markers are stronger predictors of fatal than nonfatal cardiovascular disease (
CVD
) events. People with
HIV
have elevated levels of interleukin‐6 (
IL
‐6), high‐sensitivity C‐reactive protein (hs
CRP
), and D‐dimer;
HIV
‐induced activation of inflammatory and coagulation pathways may be responsible for their greater risk of
CVD
. Whether the enhanced inflammation and coagulation associated with
HIV
is associated with more fatal
CVD
events has not been investigated.

Methods and Results

Biomarkers were measured at baseline for 9764 patients with
HIV
and no history of
CVD
. Of these patients, we focus on the 288 that experienced either a fatal (n=74) or nonfatal (n=214)
CVD
event over a median of 5 years. Odds ratios (
OR
s) (fatal versus nonfatal
CVD
) (95% confidence intervals [
CIs
]) associated with a doubling of
IL
‐6, D‐dimer, hs
CRP
, and a 1‐unit increase in an
IL
‐6 and D‐dimer score, measured a median of 2.6 years before the event, were 1.39 (1.07 to 1.79), 1.40 (1.10 to 1.78), 1.09 (0.93 to 1.28), and 1.51 (1.15 to 1.97), respectively. Of the 214 patients with nonfatal
CVD
, 23 died during follow‐up. Hazard ratios (95%
CI
) for all‐cause mortality were 1.72 (1.28 to 2.31), 1.73 (1.27 to 2.36), 1.44 (1.15 to 1.80), and 1.88 (1.39 to 2.55), respectively, for
IL
‐6, D‐dimer, hs
CRP
, and the
IL
‐6 and D‐dimer score.

Conclusions

Higher
IL
‐6 and D‐dimer levels reflecting enhanced inflammation and coagulation associated with
HIV
are associated with a greater risk of fatal
CVD
and a greater risk of death after a nonfatal
CVD
event.

Clinical Trial Registration

URL:
http://www.clinicaltrial.gov
Unique identifier: SMART: NCT00027352, ESPRIT: NCT00004978, SILCAAT: NCT00013611.
Self‐Rated Health Predicts Healthcare Utilization in Heart Failure
Authors: Chamberlain Alanna M. , Manemann Sheila M. , Dunlay Shannon M. , Spertus John A. , Moser Debra K. , Berardi Cecilia , Kane Robert L. , Weston Susan A. , Redfield Margaret M. , Roger Véronique L.
Published: May 2014

Background

Heart failure (
HF
) patients experience impaired functional status, diminished quality of life, high utilization of healthcare resources, and poor survival. Yet, the identification of patient‐centered factors that influence prognosis is lacking.

Methods and Results

We determined the association of 2 measures of self‐rated health with healthcare utilization and skilled nursing facility (
SNF
) admission in a community cohort of 417
HF
patients prospectively enrolled between October 2007 and December 2010 from Olmsted County,
MN
. Patients completed a 12‐item Short Form Health Survey (
SF
‐12). Low self‐reported physical functioning was defined as a score ≤25 on the
SF
‐12 physical component. The first question of the
SF
‐12 was used as a measure of self‐rated general health. After 2 years, 1033 hospitalizations, 1407 emergency department (
ED
) visits, and 19,780 outpatient office visits were observed; 87 patients were admitted to a
SNF
. After adjustment for confounding factors, an increased risk of hospitalizations (1.52 [1.17 to 1.99]) and
ED
visits (1.48 [1.04 to 2.11]) was observed for those with low versus moderate‐high self‐reported physical functioning. Patients with poor and fair self‐rated general health also experienced an increased risk of hospitalizations (poor: 1.73 [1.29 to 2.32]; fair: 1.46 [1.14 to 1.87]) and
ED
visits (poor: 1.73 [1.16 to 2.56]; fair: 1.48 [1.13 to 1.93]) compared with good‐excellent self‐rated general health. No association between self‐reported physical functioning or self‐rated general health with outpatient visits and
SNF
admission was observed.

Conclusion

In community
HF
patients, self‐reported measures of physical functioning predict hospitalizations and
ED
visits, indicating that these patient‐reported measures may be useful in risk stratification and management in
HF
.
Defending Hinduism or Fostering Division? The Decision to Introduce Hindu Religious Instruction in Indian Schools in South Africa during the 1950s
Authors: Gopalan Karthigasen
Published: May 2014

Abstract

This paper examines the debates and tensions that emerged during the 1950s, when the South African Hindu Maha Sabha approached education authorities about permitting Hindu religious instruction in selected primary schools. While important to the Maha Sabha, this move brought strong opposition from many quarters. Hindu reformers aimed to promote a ‘monolithic Hinduism’ and recreate it. However, given the heterogeneity of South African Hindus, who were divided by class, caste, language, region of origin, and the presence of Christian and Muslim Indians, many critical voices feared that teaching religion at school would foster divisions within the ‘Indian community’, which was considered anathema when it was perceived as necessary to unite against the racist policies of the white minority apartheid government. The deep-seated fears that were exposed by this debate reveal interesting insights about the multifaceted nature of Indian identity and Hindu identity in South Africa.