bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Racial and insurance based disparities in the treatment of carotid artery stenosis: a study of the Nationwide Inpatient Sample
Authors: Brinjikji Waleed , El-Sayed Abdulrahman M , Kallmes David F , Lanzino Giuseppe , Cloft Harry J
Published: July 2014

Background and purpose

Minorities and uninsured/underinsured patients have poorer access to healthcare system resources, especially preventative treatments. We sought to determine whether racial and insurance based disparities existed in the treatment of carotid artery stenosis.

Methods

Using the Nationwide Inpatient Sample, hospitalizations for carotid artery stenting and carotid endarterectomy for symptomatic and asymptomatic carotid artery stenosis from 2005 to 2011 were identified. We calculated χ2tests, and bivariate and multivariable logistic regression models were fit to assess differences in the characteristics of patients receiving carotid revascularization for asymptomatic compared with symptomatic carotid artery stenosis. Demographic characteristics studied included race/ethnicity (white, black, Hispanic, Asian/Pacific Islander) and primary payer status (Medicare, Medicaid, private insurance, self-pay and no charge).

Results

Between 2005 and 2011, 890 680 patients underwent carotid revascularization for the treatment of carotid artery stenosis (92.1% asymptomatic and 7.9% symptomatic). Multivariate logistic regression analysis demonstrated that Medicaid (OR=0.87, 95% CI 0.83 to 0.92, p<0.0001) and self-pay patients (OR=0.48, 95% CI 0.45 to 0.51, p<0.0001) had a lower odds of being revascularized for asymptomatic carotid artery stenosis compared with private insurance patients. Black (OR=0.81, 95% CI −0.77 to 0.84, p<0.0001) and Hispanic (OR=0.86, 95% CI −0.83 to 0.90, p<0.0001) patients had significantly lower odds of revascularization for asymptomatic carotid artery stenosis compared with white patients.

Conclusions

Minorities and self-pay/Medicaid patients were less likely to receive carotid revascularization when asymptomatic—rather they were more likely to have treatment only after symptoms had developed. These findings suggest possible disparities in the degree of morbidity related to carotid artery stenosis, the likelihood of early detection, and/or the likelihood of treatment conditional on indication.
Single surgeon coelioscopic orchiectomy of desert tortoises (Gopherus agassizii) for population management
Authors: Proença L. M. , Fowler S. , Kleine S. , Quandt J. , Mullen C. O. , Divers S. J.
Published: July 2014

Orchiectomy in chelonians is a challenging procedure, especially in large species with deep and elongated testes and extensive mesorchial attachments. Single surgeon coelioscopic orchiectomy was performed in seven adult desert tortoises (Gopherus agassizii), maintained at the Desert Tortoise Conservation Center (DTCC) in Las Vegas, for population management. Surgery was successfully conducted through a bilateral prefemoral approach via sequential vascular clip ligation and radiosurgery (monopolar/bipolar). Bipolar endoscopic forceps were considered indispensable due to the extensive mesorchial attachments and their close association with the kidney. A mechanical arm was effectively used to permit orchiectomy to be completed by a single surgeon. Six of seven animals recovered from anaesthesia. Necropsy demonstrated that the death of the other was unrelated to surgical complications. One animal experienced surgically significant haemorrhage, but still made a clinical recovery. The six tortoises were returned to the DTCC and, six months postoperatively, remain healthy. This small study suggests this minimally invasive technique is an effective method for bilateral orchiectomy in desert tortoises and might be preferable in large chelonians with elongated testes.
Polydatin attenuates cardiac hypertrophy through modulation of cardiac Ca2+ handling and calcineurin-NFAT signaling pathway
Authors: Ding Wenwen , Dong Ming , Deng Jianxin , Yan Dewen , Liu Yun , Xu Teng , Liu Jie
Published: July 2014

Polydatin (PD), a resveratrol glucoside extracted from the perennial herbage Polygonum cuspidatum, has been suggested to have wide cardioprotective effects. This study aimed to explore the direct antihypertrophic role of PD in cultured neonatal rat ventricular myocytes (NRVMs) and its therapeutic effects against pressure overload (PO)-induced hypertrophic remodeling and heart failure. Furthermore, we investigated the mechanisms underlying the actions of PD. Treatment of NRVMs with phenylephrine for 72 h induced myocyte hypertrophy, where the cell surface area and protein levels of atrial natriuretic peptide and β-myosin heavy chain (β-MHC) were significantly increased. The amplitude of systolic Ca2+ transient was increased, and sarcoplasmic reticulum Ca2+ recycling was prolonged. Concomitantly, calcineurin activity was increased and NFAT protein was imported into the nucleus. PD treatment restored Ca2+ handling and inhibited calcineurin-NFAT signaling, thus attenuating the hypertrophic remodeling in NRVMs. PO-induced cardiac hypertrophy was produced by transverse aortic constriction (TAC) in C57BL/6 mice, where the left ventricular posterior wall thickness and heart-to-body weight ratio were significantly increased. The cardiac function was increased at 5 wk of TAC, but significantly decreased at 13 wk of TAC. The amplitude of Ca2+ transient and calcineurin activity were increased at 5 wk of TAC. PD treatment largely abolished TAC-induced hypertrophic remodeling by inhibiting the Ca2+-calcineurin pathway. Surprisingly, PD did not inhibit myocyte contractility despite that the amplitude of Ca2+ transient was decreased. The cardiac function remained intact at 13 wk of TAC. In conclusion, PD is beneficial against PO-induced cardiac hypertrophy and heart failure largely through inhibiting the Ca2+-calcineurin pathway without compromising cardiac contractility.
Thymosin-β4prevents cardiac rupture and improves cardiac function in mice with myocardial infarction
Authors: Peng Hongmei , Xu Jiang , Yang Xiao-Ping , Dai Xiangguo , Peterson Edward L. , Carretero Oscar A. , Rhaleb Nour-Eddine
Published: July 2014

Thymosin-β4(Tβ4) promotes cell survival, angiogenesis, and tissue regeneration and reduces inflammation. Cardiac rupture after myocardial infarction (MI) is mainly the consequence of excessive regional inflammation, whereas cardiac dysfunction after MI results from a massive cardiomyocyte loss and cardiac fibrosis. It is possible that Tβ4 reduces the incidence of cardiac rupture post-MI via anti-inflammatory actions and that it decreases adverse cardiac remodeling and improves cardiac function by promoting cardiac cell survival and cardiac repair. C57BL/6 mice were subjected to MI and treated with either vehicle or Tβ4 (1.6 mg·kg−1·day−1ip via osmotic minipump) for 7 days or 5 wk. Mice were assessed for 1) cardiac remodeling and function by echocardiography; 2) inflammatory cell infiltration, capillary density, myocyte apoptosis, and interstitial collagen fraction histopathologically; 3) gelatinolytic activity by in situ zymography; and 4) expression of ICAM-1 and p53 by immunoblot analysis. Tβ4 reduced cardiac rupture that was associated with a decrease in the numbers of infiltrating inflammatory cells and apoptotic myocytes, a decrease in gelatinolytic activity and ICAM-1 and p53 expression, and an increase in the numbers of CD31-positive cells. Five-week treatment with Tβ4 ameliorated left ventricular dilation, improved cardiac function, markedly reduced interstitial collagen fraction, and increased capillary density. In a murine model of acute MI, Tβ4 not only decreased mortality rate as a result of cardiac rupture but also significantly improved cardiac function after MI. Thus, the use of Tβ4 could be explored as an alternative therapy in preventing cardiac rupture and restoring cardiac function in patients with MI.
Histone deacetylase 1 reduces NO production in endothelial cells via lysine deacetylation of NO synthase 3
Authors: Hyndman Kelly A. , Ho Dao H. , Sega Martiana F. , Pollock Jennifer S.
Published: July 2014

The lysine acetylation state of nonhistone proteins may be regulated through histone deacetylases (HDACs). Evidence suggests that nitric oxide (NO) synthase 3 (NOS3; endothelial NOS) is posttranslationally lysine acetylated, leading to increased NO production in the endothelium. We tested the hypothesis that NOS3 is lysine acetylated and that upregulated HDAC1-mediated deacetylation leads to reduced NO production in endothelial cells. We determined that NOS3 is basally lysine acetylated in cultured bovine aortic endothelial cells (BAECs). In BAECs, HDAC1 is expressed in the nucleus and cytosol and forms a novel protein-protein interaction with NOS3. Overexpression of HDAC1 in BAECs resulted in a significant reduction in NOS3 lysine acetylation (control = 1.0 ± 0.1 and HDAC1 = 0.59 ± 0.08 arbitrary units, P < 0.01) and significantly blunted basal nitrite production (control 287.7 ± 29.1 and HDAC1 172.4 ± 31.7 pmol·mg−1·h−1, P < 0.05) as well as attenuating endothelin-1-stimulated nitrite production (control = 481.8 ± 50.3 and HDAC1 243.1 ± 48.2 pmol·mg−1·h−1, P < 0.05). While HDAC1 knockdown with small-interfering RNA resulted in no change in NOS3 acetylation level, yet increased basal nitrite production (730.6 ± 99.1 pmol·mg−1·h−1) and further exaggerated increases in endothelin-1 stimulated nitrite production (1276.9 ± 288.2 pmol·mg−1·h−1) was observed. Moreover, overexpression or knockdown of HDAC1 resulted in no significant effect on NOS3 protein expression or NOS3 phosphorylation sites T497, S635, or S1179. Thus these data indicate that upregulated HDAC1 decreases NOS3 activity, most likely through direct lysine deacetylation of NOS3. We propose that HDAC1-mediated deacetylation of NOS3 may represent a novel target for endothelial dysfunction.
High-protein-low-carbohydrate diet: deleterious metabolic and cardiovascular effects depend on age
Authors: Bedarida Tatiana , Baron Stephanie , Vessieres Emilie , Vibert Francoise , Ayer Audrey , Marchiol-Fournigault Carmen , Henrion Daniel , Paul Jean-Louis , Noble Florence , Golmard Jean-Louis , Beaudeux Jean-Louis , Cottart Charles-Henry , Nivet-Antoine Valerie
Published: July 2014

High-protein-low-carbohydrate (HP-LC) diets have become widespread. Yet their deleterious consequences, especially on glucose metabolism and arteries, have already been underlined. Our previous study ( 2 ) has already shown glucose intolerance with major arterial dysfunction in very old mice subjected to an HP-LC diet. The hypothesis of this work was that this diet had an age-dependent deleterious metabolic and cardiovascular outcome. Two groups of mice, young and adult (3 and 6 mo old), were subjected for 12 wk to a standard or to an HP-LC diet. Glucose and lipid metabolism was studied. The cardiovascular system was explored from the functional stage with Doppler-echography to the molecular stage (arterial reactivity, mRNA, immunohistochemistry). Young mice did not exhibit any significant metabolic modification, whereas adult mice presented marked glucose intolerance associated with an increase in resistin and triglyceride levels. These metabolic disturbances were responsible for cardiovascular damages only in adult mice, with decreased aortic distensibility and left ventricle dysfunction. These seemed to be the consequence of arterial dysfunctions. Mesenteric arteries were the worst affected with a major oxidative stress, whereas aorta function seemed to be maintained with an appreciable role of cyclooxygenase-2 to preserve endothelial function. This study highlights for the first time the age-dependent deleterious effects of an HP-LC diet on metabolism, with glucose intolerance and lipid disorders and vascular (especially microvessels) and cardiac functions. This work shows that HP-LC lead to equivalent cardiovascular alterations, as observed in very old age, and underlines the danger of such diet.
Hypoxia and ischemia-reperfusion: a BiK contribution?
Authors: Tano Jean-Yves , Gollasch Maik
Published: July 2014

Over the last decades, cardiovascular disease has become the primary cause of death in the Western world, and this trend is expanding throughout the world. In particular, atherosclerosis and the subsequent vessel obliterations are the primary cause of ischemic disease (stroke and coronary heart disease). Excess calcium influx into the cells is one of the major pathophysiological mechanisms important for ischemic injury in the brain and heart in humans. The large-conductance calcium-activated K+ channels (BK) are thus interesting candidates to protect against excess calcium influx and the events leading to ischemic injury. Indeed, the mitochondrial BK channels (mitoBK) have recently been shown to play a protective function against ischemia-reperfusion injury both in vitro and in animal models, although the exact mechanism of this protection is still under scrutiny. In addition, in both the plasma membrane and mitochondrial BK channel, the α-subunit itself is sensitive to hypoxia. This sensitivity is tissue specific and conferred by a highly conserved motif within an alternatively spliced cysteine-rich insert (STREX) in the intracellular C terminus of the channel. This review describes recent developments of the increasing relevance of BK channels in hypoxia and ischemia-reperfusion injury.
Sex-dependent, zinc-induced dephosphorylation of phospholamban by tissue-nonspecific alkaline phosphatase in the cardiac sarcomere
Authors: Wang Yuan , Bishop Nicole M. , Taatjes Douglas J. , Narisawa Sonoko , Millán José Luis , Palmer Bradley M.
Published: July 2014

We have previously reported that Zn2+ infused into the coronary arteries of isolated rat hearts leads to the potent dephosphorylation of phospholamban (PLB) as well as a noticeable but less potent dephosphorylation of the ryanodine receptor 2. We hypothesized in the present study that a Zn2+-activated phosphatase is located in the vicinity of the sarcoplasmic reticulum (SR) where PLB and ryanodine receptor 2 reside. We report here the novel finding of tissue-nonspecific alkaline phosphatase (TNAP), a zinc-dependent enzyme, localized to the SR in the cardiac sarcomere of mouse myocardium. TNAP activity was enhanced by injection of Zn acetate into a tail vein before harvesting the heart and imaged using electron microscopy of electron dense deposits indicative of the hydrolysis of exogenous β-glycerophosphate. TNAP activity was observed localized to the ends of the Z-line corresponding to SR and was qualitatively more visible in myocardium of males compared with females. Correspondingly, PLB phosphorylation status was potently reduced in myocardium of males injected with Zn acetate, whereas there was no apparent effect of Zn acetate injection on PLB phosphorylation in females. Surprisingly, Western blot analysis of TNAP content suggested a significantly lower TNAP content in males compared with females. These data suggest that TNAP plays a role in governing the phosphorylation status of calcium handling proteins in the SR. Furthermore, the content and activity of TNAP are differentially regulated between the sexes and thus may account for some sex differences in cardiopathologies associated with calcium handling.
Urocortin 2 stimulates nitric oxide production in ventricular myocytes via Akt- and PKA-mediated phosphorylation of eNOS at serine 1177
Authors: Walther Stefanie , Pluteanu Florentina , Renz Susanne , Nikonova Yulia , Maxwell Joshua T. , Yang Li-Zhen , Schmidt Kurt , Edwards Joshua N. , Wakula Paulina , Groschner Klaus , Maier Lars S. , Spiess Joachim , Blatter Lothar A. , Pieske Burkert , Kockskämper Jens
Published: July 2014

Urocortin 2 (Ucn2) is a cardioactive peptide exhibiting beneficial effects in normal and failing heart. In cardiomyocytes, it elicits cAMP- and Ca2+-dependent positive inotropic and lusitropic effects. We tested the hypothesis that, in addition, Ucn2 activates cardiac nitric oxide (NO) signaling and elucidated the underlying signaling pathways and mechanisms. In isolated rabbit ventricular myocytes, Ucn2 caused concentration- and time-dependent increases in phosphorylation of Akt (Ser473, Thr308), endothelial NO synthase (eNOS) (Ser1177), and ERK1/2 (Thr202/Tyr204). ERK1/2 phosphorylation, but not Akt and eNOS phosphorylation, was suppressed by inhibition of MEK1/2. Increased Akt phosphorylation resulted in increased Akt kinase activity and was mediated by corticotropin-releasing factor 2 (CRF2) receptors (astressin-2B sensitive). Inhibition of phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI3K) diminished both Akt as well as eNOS phosphorylation mediated by Ucn2. Inhibition of protein kinase A (PKA) reduced Ucn2-induced phosphorylation of eNOS but did not affect the increase in phosphorylation of Akt. Conversely, direct receptor-independent elevation of cAMP via forskolin increased phosphorylation of eNOS but not of Akt. Ucn2 increased intracellular NO concentration ([NO]i), [cGMP], [cAMP], and cell shortening. Inhibition of eNOS suppressed the increases in [NO]iand cell shortening. When both PI3K-Akt and cAMP-PKA signaling were inhibited, the Ucn2-induced increases in [NO]iand cell shortening were attenuated. Thus, in rabbit ventricular myocytes, Ucn2 causes activation of cAMP-PKA, PI3K-Akt, and MEK1/2-ERK1/2 signaling. The MEK1/2-ERK1/2 pathway is not required for stimulation of NO signaling in these cells. The other two pathways, cAMP-PKA and PI3K-Akt, converge on eNOS phosphorylation at Ser1177 and result in pronounced and sustained cellular NO production with subsequent stimulation of cGMP signaling.
NADPH oxidase-2 inhibition restores contractility and intracellular calcium handling and reduces arrhythmogenicity in dystrophic cardiomyopathy
Authors: Gonzalez Daniel R. , Treuer Adriana V. , Lamirault Guillaume , Mayo Vera , Cao Yenong , Dulce Raul A. , Hare Joshua M.
Published: July 2014

Duchenne muscular dystrophy may affect cardiac muscle, producing a dystrophic cardiomyopathy in humans and the mdx mouse. We tested the hypothesis that oxidative stress participates in disrupting calcium handling and contractility in the mdx mouse with established cardiomyopathy. We found increased expression (fivefold) of the NADPH oxidase (NOX) 2 in the mdx hearts compared with wild type, along with increased superoxide production. Next, we tested the impact of NOX2 inhibition on contractility and calcium handling in isolated cardiomyocytes. Contractility was decreased in mdx myocytes compared with wild type, and this was restored toward normal by pretreating with apocynin. In addition, the amplitude of evoked intracellular Ca2+ concentration transients that was diminished in mdx myocytes was also restored with NOX2 inhibition. Total sarcoplasmic reticulum (SR) Ca2+ content was reduced in mdx hearts and normalized by apocynin treatment. Additionally, NOX2 inhibition decreased the production of spontaneous diastolic calcium release events and decreased the SR calcium leak in mdx myocytes. In addition, nitric oxide (NO) synthase 1 (NOS-1) expression was increased eightfold in mdx hearts compared with wild type. Nevertheless, cardiac NO production was reduced. To test whether this paradox implied NOS-1 uncoupling, we treated cardiac myocytes with exogenous tetrahydrobioterin, along with the NOX inhibitor VAS2870. These agents restored NO production and phospholamban phosphorylation in mdx toward normal. Together, these results demonstrate that, in mdx hearts, NOX2 inhibition improves the SR calcium handling and contractility, partially by recoupling NOS-1. These findings reveal a new layer of nitroso-redox imbalance in dystrophic cardiomyopathy.
Lower-limb veins are thicker and vascular reactivity is decreased in a rat PCOS model: concomitant vitamin D3treatment partially prevents these changes
Authors: Várbíró Szabolcs , Sára Levente , Antal Péter , Monori-Kiss Anna , Tőkés Anna-Mária , Monos Emil , Benkő Rita , Csibi Noémi , Szekeres Maria , Tarszabo Robert , Novak Agnes , Paragi Péter , Nádasy György L.
Published: July 2014

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) causes vascular damage to arteries; however, there are no data for its effect on veins. Our aim was to clarify the effects of dihydrotestosterone (DHT)-induced PCOS both on venous biomechanics and on pharmacological reactivity in a rat model and to test the possible modulatory role of vitamin D3(vitD). PCOS was induced in female Wistar rats by DHT treatment (83 μg/day, subcutaneous pellet). After 10 wk, the venous biomechanics, norepinephrine (NE)-induced contractility, and acetylcholine-induced relaxation were tested in saphenous veins from control animals and from animals treated with DHT or DHT with vitD using pressure angiography. Additionally, the expression levels of endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS) and cyclooxygenase (COX-2) were measured using immunohistochemistry. Increased diameter, wall thickness, and distensibility as well as decreased vasoconstriction were detected after the DHT treatment. Concomitant vitD treatment lowered the mechanical load on the veins, reduced distensibility, and resulted in vessels that were more relaxed. Although there was no difference in the endothelial dilation tested using acetylcholine (ACh), the blocking effect of NG-nitro-l-arginine methyl ester (l-NAME) was lower and was accompanied by lower COX-2 expression in the endothelium after the DHT treatment. Supplementation with vitD prevented these alterations. eNOS expression did not differ among the three groups. We conclude that the hyperandrogenic state resulted in thicker vein walls. These veins showed early remodeling and altered vasorelaxant mechanisms similar to those of varicose veins. Alterations caused by the chronic DHT treatment were prevented partially by concomitant vitD administration.
ENaC activity and expression is decreased in the lungs of protein kinase C-α knockout mice
Authors: Eaton Amity F. , Yue Qiang , Eaton Douglas C. , Bao Hui-Fang
Published: July 2014

We used a PKC-α knockout model to investigate the regulation of alveolar epithelial Na+channels (ENaC) by PKC. Primary alveolar type II (ATII) cells were subjected to cell-attached patch clamp. In the absence of PKC-α, the open probability (Po) of ENaC was decreased by half compared with wild-type mice. The channel density ( N) was also reduced in the knockout mice. Using in vivo biotinylation, membrane localization of all three ENaC subunits (α, β, and γ) was decreased in the PKC-α knockout lung, compared with the wild-type. Confocal microscopy of lung slices showed elevated levels of reactive oxygen species (ROS) in the lungs of the PKC-α knockout mice vs. the wild-type. High levels of ROS in the knockout lung can be explained by a decrease in both cytosolic and mitochondrial superoxide dismutase activity. Elevated levels of ROS in the knockout lung activates PKC-δ and leads to reduced dephosphorylation of ERK1/2 by MAP kinase phosphatase, which in turn causes increased internalization of ENaC via ubiquitination by the ubiquitin-ligase Nedd4–2. In addition, in the knockout lung, PKC-δ activates ERK, causing a decrease in ENaC density at the apical alveolar membrane. PKC-δ also phosphorylates MARCKS, leading to a decrease in ENaC Po. The effects of ROS and PKC-δ were confirmed with patch-clamp experiments on isolated ATII cells in which the ROS scavenger, Tempol, or a PKC-δ-specific inhibitor added to patches reversed the observed decrease in ENaC apical channel density and Po. These results explain the decrease in ENaC activity in PKC-α knockout lung.
Fibroblasts that resist cigarette smoke-induced senescence acquire profibrotic phenotypes
Authors: Kanaji Nobuhiro , Basma Hesham , Nelson Amy , Farid Maha , Sato Tadashi , Nakanishi Masanori , Wang Xingqi , Michalski Joel , Li YingJi , Gunji Yoko , Feghali-Bostwick Carol , Liu Xiangde , Rennard Stephen I.
Published: July 2014

This study assessed the effect of extended exposure to cigarette smoke extract (CSE) on tissue repair functions in lung fibroblasts. Human fetal (HFL-1) and adult lung fibroblasts were exposed to CSE for 14 days. Senescence-associated β-galactosidase (SA β-gal) expression, cell proliferation, and tissue repair functions including chemotaxis and gel contraction were assessed. HFL-1 proliferation was inhibited by CSE and nearly half of the CSE-exposed cells were SA β-gal positive after 14 days exposure, whereas 33% of adult lung fibroblasts were SA β-gal positive in response to 10% CSE exposure. The SA β-gal-positive cells did not proliferate as indicated by bromodeoxyuridine incorporation. In contrast, cells negative for SA β-gal after CSE exposure proliferated faster than cells never exposed to CSE. These nonsenescent cells migrated more and contracted collagen gels more than control cells. CSE exposure stimulated TGF-β1 production, and both inhibition of TGF-β receptor kinase and TGF-β1 siRNA blocked CSE modulation of fibroblast function. Extended exposure to CSE might induce two different fibroblast phenotypes, a senescent and a profibrotic phenotype. The fibroblasts that resist CSE-induced cellular senescence may contribute to the pathogenesis of idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis and could contribute to fibrotic lesions in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease acting through a TGF-β1-mediated pathway. In contrast, the senescent cells may contribute to the pathogenesis of emphysema.
α-Tocopherol supplementation of allergic female mice inhibits development of CD11c+CD11b+dendritic cells in utero and allergic inflammation in neonates
Authors: Abdala-Valencia Hiam , Berdnikovs Sergejs , Soveg Frank W. , Cook-Mills Joan M.
Published: July 2014

α-Tocopherol blocks responses to allergen challenge in allergic adult mice, but it is not known whether α-tocopherol regulates the development of allergic disease. Development of allergic disease often occurs early in life. In clinical studies and animal models, offspring of allergic mothers have increased responsiveness to allergen challenge. Therefore, we determined whether α-tocopherol blocked development of allergic responses in offspring of allergic female mice. Allergic female mice were supplemented with α-tocopherol starting at mating. The pups from allergic mothers developed allergic lung responses, whereas pups from saline-treated mothers did not respond to the allergen challenge, and α-tocopherol supplementation of allergic female mice resulted in a dose-dependent reduction in eosinophils in the pup bronchoalveolar lavage and lungs after allergen challenge. There was also a reduction in pup lung CD11b+dendritic cell subsets that are critical to development of allergic responses, but there was no change in several CD11b−dendritic cell subsets. Furthermore, maternal supplementation with α-tocopherol reduced the number of fetal liver CD11b+dendritic cells in utero. In the pups, there was reduced allergen-induced lung mRNA expression of IL-4, IL-33, TSLP, CCL11, and CCL24. Cross-fostering pups at the time of birth demonstrated that α-tocopherol had a regulatory function in utero. In conclusion, maternal supplementation with α-tocopherol reduced fetal development of subsets of dendritic cells that are critical for allergic responses and reduced development of allergic responses in pups from allergic mothers. These results have implications for supplementation of allergic mothers with α-tocopherol.
Planar MIMO Antenna with Slits for WBAN Applications
Authors: Kang Do-Gu , Tak Jinpil , Choi Jaehoon
Published: July 2014

A planar MIMO antenna with slits for WBAN applications is proposed. The antenna consists of two PIFAs, ground pads, and two slits. By adding ground pads, the antenna size is reduced with improved impedance matching. Through two slits in a ground plane, the isolation characteristic is improved and the resonant frequency can be controlled. To analyze the antenna performance on a human body, the proposed antenna on a human equivalent flat phantom is investigated through simulations. Regardless of the existence of the phantom, the antenna operates in 2.4 GHz ISM band with the isolation higher than 18 dB.
IDMA-Based MAC Protocol for Satellite Networks with Consideration on Channel Quality
Authors: Liu Gongliang , Fang Xinrui , Kang Wenjing
Published: July 2014

In order to overcome the shortcomings of existing medium access control (MAC) protocols based on TDMA or CDMA in satellite networks, interleave division multiple access (IDMA) technique is introduced into satellite communication networks. Therefore, a novel wide-band IDMA MAC protocol based on channel quality is proposed in this paper, consisting of a dynamic power allocation algorithm, a rate adaptation algorithm, and a call admission control (CAC) scheme. Firstly, the power allocation algorithm combining the technique of IDMA SINR-evolution and channel quality prediction is developed to guarantee high power efficiency even in terrible channel conditions. Secondly, the effective rate adaptation algorithm, based on accurate channel information per timeslot and by the means of rate degradation, can be realized. What is more, based on channel quality prediction, the CAC scheme, combining the new power allocation algorithm, rate scheduling, and buffering strategies together, is proposed for the emerging IDMA systems, which can support a variety of traffic types, and offering quality of service (QoS) requirements corresponding to different priority levels. Simulation results show that the new wide-band IDMA MAC protocol can make accurate estimation of available resource considering the effect of multiuser detection (MUD) and QoS requirements of multimedia traffic, leading to low outage probability as well as high overall system throughput.
Eating Behaviours and Body Weight Concerns among Adolescent Girls
Authors: Mallick Nadira , Ray Subha , Mukhopadhyay Susmita
Published: July 2014

This paper presents a global review of research done on adolescent eating behaviours and food choices and the probable factors underlying it. Worldwide adolescent girls tend to develop moderate to high level of disordered eating behaviour as a result of their excessive concern with body weight or obsession with thinness. The objective of the review is to understand the concerns over body weight and the current eating patterns of adolescent girls in the developed and developing countries.
Terminal Sliding Mode Control with Adaptive Feedback Control in a Class of Chaotic Systems
Authors: Yang Degang , Qiu Guoying
Published: July 2014

This paper analyzes semifinite time stability for a general chaotic system. By cooperating methods terminal sliding mode (TSM) with adaptive feedback control (AFC), a controller based on the two methods is derived to achieve semifinite time stability. The theoretical analysis employs the theories of linear matrix inequalities and Lyapunov functional method. Finally, numerical simulation is given to illustrate the derived theoretical results.
Observational Study on the Occurrence of Muscle Spindles in Human Digastric and Mylohyoideus Muscles
Authors: Saverino Daniele , De Santanna Amleto , Simone Rita , Cervioni Stefano , Cattrysse Erik , Testa Marco
Published: July 2014

Although the occurrence of muscle spindles (MS) is quite high in most skeletal muscles of humans, few MS, or even absence, have been reported in digastric and mylohyoideus muscles. Even if this condition is generally accepted and quoted in many papers and books, observational studies are scarce and based on histological sections of a low number of specimens. The aim of the present study is to confirm previous data, assessing MS number in a sample of digastric and mylohyoideus muscles. We investigated 11 digastric and 6 mylohyoideus muscles from 13 donors. Muscle samples were embedded in paraffin wax, cross-sectioned in a rostrocaudal direction, and stained using haematoxylin-eosin. A mean of 5.1 ± 1.1 (range 3–7) MS was found in digastric muscles and mean of 0.5 ± 0.8 (range 0–2) in mylohyoideus muscles. A significant difference (P<0.001) was found with the control sample, confirming the correctness of the histological procedure. Our results support general belief that the absolute number of spindles is sparse in digastric and mylohyoideus muscles. External forces, such as food resistance during chewing or gravity, do not counteract jaw-opening muscles. It is conceivable that this condition gives them a limited proprioceptive importance and a reduced need for having specific receptors as MS.
Impact of Site Disturbances from Harvesting and Logging on Soil Physical Properties and Pinus kesiya Tree Growth
Authors: Missanjo Edward , Kamanga-Thole Gift
Published: July 2014

A study was conducted to determine the impacts of soil disturbance and compaction on soil physical properties and tree growth and the effectiveness of tillage in maintaining or enhancing site productivity for intensively managed Pinus kesiya Royle ex Gordon sites in Dedza, Malawi. The results indicate that about fifty-two percent of the area of compacted plots was affected by the vehicular traffic. Seventy percent of the trees were planted on microsites with some degree of soil disturbance. Soil bulk density at 0–20 cm depth increased from 0.45 to 0.66 Mg m−3 in the most compacted portions of traffic lanes. Soil strength in traffic lanes increased at all 60 cm depth but never exceeded 1200 kPa. Volumetric soil water content in compacted traffic lanes was greater than that in noncompacted soil. Total soil porosity decreased 13.8% to 16.1% with compaction, while available water holding capacity increased. The study revealed no detrimental effects on tree height and diameter from soil disturbance or compaction throughout the three growing season. At the ages of two and three, a tree volume index was actually greater for trees planted on traffic lanes than those on nondisturbed soil.
Laser-Induced Damage Initiation and Growth of Optical Materials
Authors: Yu Jingxia , Xiang Xia , He Shaobo , Yuan Xiaodong , Zheng Wanguo , Lü Haibing , Zu Xiaotao
Published: July 2014

The lifetime of optical components is determined by the combination of laser-induced damage initiation probability and damage propagation rate during subsequent laser shots. This paper reviews both theoretical and experimental investigations on laser-induced damage initiation and growth at the surface of optics. The damage mechanism is generally considered as thermal absorption and electron avalanche, which play dominant roles for the different laser pulse durations. The typical damage morphology in the surface of components observed in experiments is also closely related to the damage mechanism. The damage crater in thermal absorption process, which can be estimated by thermal diffusion model, is typical distortion, melting, and ablation debris often with an elevated rim caused by melted material flow and resolidification. However, damage initiated by electron avalanche is often accompanied by generation of plasma, crush, and fracture, which can be explained by thermal explosion model. Damage growth at rear surface of components is extremely severe which can be explained by several models, such as fireball growth, impact crater, brittle fracture, and electric field enhancement. All the physical effects are not independent but mutually coupling. Developing theoretical models of multiphysics coupling are an important trend for future theoretical research. Meanwhile, more attention should be paid to integrated analysis both in theory and experiment.
Successful Management of Coronary Artery Rupture with Stent-Graft: A Case Report
Authors: Ekici Berkay , Erkan Aycan Fahri , Kütük Utku , Töre Hasan Fehmi
Published: July 2014

Perforation of coronary arteries is a relatively rare yet life-threatening complication of percutaneus coronary interventions and is encountered in approximately 0.5% of these procedures. According to the type of coronary perforation, various methods of correction are employed, ranging from conservative approach to emergency cardiac surgery. Coronary stent-grafts are composed of two metal stents and a polytetrafluoroethylene layer between them. Advent of such stents enabled efficient endovascular repair of coronary artery perforation. We present a case of coronary artery perforation which had occurred during stent implantation for the treatment of a bridged segment in the distal portion of the left anterior descending artery. This perforation was successfully managed by implanting a stent-graft.
Approximate Analytic Solutions of Transient Nonlinear Heat Conduction with Temperature-Dependent Thermal Diffusivity
Authors: Mustafa M. T. , Arif A. F. M. , Masood Khalid
Published: July 2014

A new approach for generating approximate analytic solutions of transient nonlinear heat conduction problems is presented. It is based on an effective combination of Lie symmetry method, homotopy perturbation method, finite element method, and simulation based error reduction techniques. Implementation of the proposed approach is demonstrated by applying it to determine approximate analytic solutions of real life problems consisting of transient nonlinear heat conduction in semi-infinite bars made of stainless steel AISI 304 and mild steel. The results from the approximate analytical solutions and the numerical solution are compared indicating good agreement.
Acute Stroke Care and Thrombolytic Therapy Use in a Tertiary Care Center in Lebanon
Authors: El Sayed Mazen J. , El Zahran Tharwat , Tamim Hani
Published: July 2014

Background. Thrombolytic therapy (rt-PA) is approved for ischemic stroke presenting within 4.5 hours of symptoms onset. The rate of utilization of rt-PA is not well described in developing countries.Objectives. Our study examined patient characteristics and outcomes in addition to barriers to rt-PA utilization in a tertiary care center in Beirut, Lebanon.Methods. A retrospective chart review of all adult patients admitted to the emergency department during a one-year period (June 1st, 2009, to June 1st, 2010) with a final discharge diagnosis of ischemic stroke was completed. Descriptive analysis was done followed by a comparison of two groups (IV rt-PA and no IV rt-PA).Results. During the study period, 87 patients met the inclusion criteria and thus were included in the study. The mean age was found to be 71.9 years (SD = 11.8). Most patients arrived by private transport (85.1%). Weakness and loss of speech were the most common presenting signs (56.3%). Thirty-three patients (37.9%) presented within 4.5 hours of symptom onset. Nine patients (10.3%, 95% CI (5.5–18.5)) received rt-PA. The two groups (rt-PA versus non rt-PA) had similar outcomes (mortality, symptomatic intracerebral hemorrhage, modified Rankin scale scores, and residual deficit at hospital discharge).Conclusion. In our setting, rt-PA utilization was higher than expected. Delayed presentation was the main barrier to rt-PA administration. Public education regarding stroke is needed to decrease time from symptoms onset to ED presentation and potentially improve outcomes further.
Response of Yield and Yield Components of Tef [Eragrostis tef (Zucc.) Trotter] to Tillage, Nutrient, and Weed Management Practices in Dura Area, Northern Ethiopia
Authors: Tesfahunegn Gebreyesus Brhane
Published: July 2014

The low average grain yield (0.7 ton ha−1) of tef in Ethiopia is mainly attributed to low soil fertility, and inappropriate tillage and weeds control practices. Despite this, limited scientific information has been documented so far on their interaction effects on tef crop productivity in northern Ethiopia. The objective of this study was to assess the separate and interaction effects of tillage, fertilizer, and weed control practices on tef yield and yield components in the conditions of northern Ethiopia. A two-year study (2008-2009) was conducted using split-split-plot design with three replications. In the main plot, three tillage treatments: conventional tillage (6 times tillage passes) (T1), four times tillage passes (T2), and reduced tillage (single tillage pass at sowing) (T3) were applied. The fertilizer treatments in the subplots were: no fertilizer (F1); 23 kg N ha−1 (F2); 23 kg N ha−1 and 10 kg P ha−1 (F3); 23 kg N ha−1 and 2.5 ton manure ha−1 (F4); and 2.5 ton manure ha−1 (F5). The sub-subplot weed control treatments included farmer weed control practice or hand weeding (W1); 2,4 D at 0.75 kg ha−1 at five-leaf stage; 2,4 D at 0.75 kg ha−1 at six-leaf stage; 2,4 D at 1.5 kg ha−1 at five-leaf stage; and 2,4 D at 1.5 kg ha−1 at six-leaf stage. This study showed that the separate and interaction effects of tillage, fertilizer, and weed control practices significantly affected tef crop yield and yield components in both crop seasons. T2 increased tef yield by >42% over the other tillage and F3 increased yield by >21% over the other fertilizer treatments. Grain yield increased by >23% due to W1. This study thus suggested that promising treatments such as T2, F3, and W1 should be demonstrated at on-farm fields in order to evaluate their performance at farmers’ conditions.
Retrospective Long‐Term Comparison of Naturopathic Fasting Therapy and Weight Reduction Diet in Overweight Patients
Authors: Beer André-Michael , Ismar Lena Elisabeth , Wessely Dominik Karl , Pötschke Tanja , Weidner Beate , Wiebelitz Karl Rüdiger
Published: July 2014

In a follow‐up study overweight and obese patients fasting according to Buchinger (modified) and a control group treated by a weight reduction diet in the context of an inpatient naturopathic complex treatment were compared using a questionnaire developed for a standardized phone interview 6.8 ± 1.1 years after inpatient treatment. During the inpatient treatment the fasting patients significantly more body weight, but at the time of the interview significantly more weight was gained again. 10.7% of the fasting patients and 31.9% of the control group lowered their weight at least 5% of their initial weight up to the interview. 42% of the fasting and 74% of the control group persistently changed their diet. The control group followed a significantly higher number of trained nutritional aspects. 21% of the fasting and 40% of the control group increased their leisure activity permanently. Continued improvement in quality of life was achieved by 16% of the fasting patients and 28% of the control group. The fasting therapy, carried out as part of the inpatient naturopathic complex treatment, turned out to be less suitable for the treatment of overweight and obesity compared to standard therapy. One likely determinant is the minor poststationary lifestyle modification.
Effect of Temperature Shock and Inventory Surprises on Natural Gas and Heating Oil Futures Returns
Authors: Hu John Wei-Shan , Hu Yi-Chung , Lin Chien-Yu
Published: July 2014

The aim of this paper is to examine the impact of temperature shock on both near-month and far-month natural gas and heating oil futures returns by extending the weather and storage models of the previous study. Several notable findings from the empirical studies are presented. First, the expected temperature shock significantly and positively affects both the near-month and far-month natural gas and heating oil futures returns. Next, significant temperature shock has effect on both the conditional mean and volatility of natural gas and heating oil prices. The results indicate that expected inventory surprises significantly and negatively affects the far-month natural gas futures returns. Moreover, volatility of natural gas futures returns is higher on Thursdays and that of near-month heating oil futures returns is higher on Wednesdays than other days. Finally, it is found that storage announcement for natural gas significantly affects near-month and far-month natural gas futures returns. Furthermore, both natural gas and heating oil futures returns are affected more by the weighted average temperature reported by multiple weather reporting stations than that reported by a single weather reporting station.
Nitrite as Direct S-Nitrosylating Agent of Kir2.1 Channels
Authors: Montesanti Gabriella , Parisella Maria Laura , Garofalo Giusi , Pellegrino Daniela
Published: July 2014

Nitrite, a physiological nitric oxide (NO) storage form and an alternative way for NO generation, affects numerous biological processes through NO-dependent and independent pathways, including the S-nitrosylation of thiol-containing proteins. Mechanisms underlying these phenomena are not fully understood. The purpose of this study was to analyse in the rat heart (as prototype of mammalian heart) whether nitrite affects S-nitrosylation of cardiac proteins and the potential targets for S-nitrosylation. Rat hearts, perfused according to Langendorff, were exposed to nitrite. By Biotin Switch Method, we showed that nitrite treatment increased the degree of S-nitrosylation of a broad range of membrane proteins. Further analysis, conducted on subfractioned proteins, allowed us to identify a high level of nitrosylation in a small range of plasmalemmal proteins characterized by using an anti-Kir2.1 rabbit polyclonal antibody. We also verified that this effect of nitrite is preserved in the presence of the NO scavenger PTIO (2-phenyl-4,4,5,5-tetramethylimidazoline-1-oxyl 3-oxide). Our results suggest, for the first time, that nitrite represents a direct S-nitrosylating agent in cardiac tissues and that inward-rectifier potassium ion channels (Kir2.1) are one of the targets. These observations are of relevance since they support the growing evidence that nitrite is not only a NO reserve but also a direct modulator of important functional cardiac proteins.
Recombinant Lysostaphin Protects Mice from Methicillin-ResistantStaphylococcus aureusPneumonia
Authors: Chen Chen , Fan Huahao , Huang Yong , Peng Fan , Fan Hang , Yuan Shoujun , Tong Yigang
Published: July 2014

The advent of methicillin-resistantStaphylococcus aureus(MRSA) and the frequent and excessive abuse of ventilators have made MRSA pneumonia an inordinate threat to human health. Appropriate antibacterial therapies are crucial, including the use of lysostaphin as an alternative to antibiotics. To explore the potential use of lysostaphin as a therapeutic agent for MRSA pneumonia, mice were intranasally infected with MRSA and then treated with recombinant lysostaphin (rLys; 45 mg/kg in the high-dose group and 1 mg/kg in the low-dose group) (0.33 mg/mL, 15 mg/mL), vancomycin (120 mg/kg) (40 mg/mL), or phosphate-buffered saline (PBS, negative control) 4 h after infection. Therapeutic efficacy was assessed by mouse survival, lung histopathology, bacterial density in the lungs, bodyweight, lung weight, temperature, white blood cells counts, lymphocytes counts, granulocytes counts, and monocytes counts. The mice treated with rLys showed lower mortality, less lung parenchymal damage, and lower bacterial density at metastatic tissue sites than mice treated with PBS or vancomycin. The overall mortality was 100%, 60%, 40%, and 60% for the control, vancomycin, high-dose rLys, and low-dose rLys groups, respectively. These findings indicate that, as a therapeutic agent for MRSA pneumonia, lysostaphin exerts profound protective effects in mice against the morbidity and mortality associated withS. aureuspneumonia.
Synthesis, Structural and Optical Investigations of (Pb, Bi)TiO3Borosilicate Glasses
Authors: Gautam Chandkiram
Published: July 2014

A new series of lead bismuth titanate borosilicate glasses with addition of one percent lanthanum oxide have been synthesized using melt-quench technique. X-ray diffraction patterns have been recorded to confirm the amorphous nature of the prepared glass samples. The synthesized glasses have been characterized by using various spectroscopic techniques such as UV-visible, infrared, and Raman spectroscopy. UV-visible measurements were recorded in the wavelength range from 200 to 1100 nm whereas IR and Raman spectroscopic measurements were recorded over a continuous wavenumber range from 400 to 5000 cm−1and 1000 to 2000 cm−1respectively. The different absorption peaks/bands were formed in IR spectral patterns. The spectral bands appear towards the lower wavenumber sides due to the Bi and Pb, content while the bands appear towards the higher wavenumber sides due to the formation of diborate and triborate network units.