bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Loss of GSTM1, a NRF2 target, is associated with accelerated progression of hypertensive kidney disease in the African American Study of Kidney Disease (AASK)
Authors: Chang Jamison , Ma Jennie Z. , Zeng Qing , Cechova Sylvia , Gantz Adam , Nievergelt Caroline , O'Connor Daniel , Lipkowitz Michael , Le Thu H.
Published: December 2012

Oxidative stress is acknowledged to play a role in kidney disease progression. Genetic variants that affect the capacity to handle oxidative stress may therefore influence the outcome of kidney disease. We examined whether genetic variants of the GSTM1 gene, a member of a superfamily of glutathione S-transferases, influence the course of kidney disease progression in participants of the African American Study of Kidney Disease (AASK) trial. Groups with and without the common GSTM1 null allele, GSTM1(0), differed significantly in the time to a glomerular filtration rate (GFR) event or dialysis ( P = 0.04) and in the time to GFR event, dialysis, or death ( P = 0.02). The hazard ratios (HR) for the time to a GFR event or dialysis in those with two or one null allele relative to those possessing none were 1.88 [95% confidence interval (CI), 1.07 to 3.30, P = 0.03] and 1.68 (95% CI, 1.00 to 2.84, P < 0.05), respectively. For the time to GFR event, dialysis, or death, the HR for two null alleles was 2.06 (95% CI, 1.20 to 3.55, P = 0.01) and for one null allele 1.70 (95% CI, 1.02 to 2.81, P = 0.04). We demonstrated that GSTM1 directly regulates intracellular levels of 4-hydroxynonenal (4-HNE) in vascular smooth muscle cells. Furthermore, we showed that renal 4-HNE levels and GSTM1 are both increased after reduction of renal mass (RRM) in the mouse. We conclude that GSTM1 is normally upregulated in chronic kidney disease (CKD) in a protective response to increased oxidative stress. A genetic variant that results in loss of GSTM1 activity may be deleterious in CKD.
N-geranyl cyclopropyl-carboximide modulates salty and umami taste in humans and animal models
Authors: Dewis Mark L. , Phan Tam-Hao T. , Ren ZuoJun , Meng Xuanyu , Cui Meng , Mummalaneni Shobha , Rhyu Mee-Ra , DeSimone John A. , Lyall Vijay
Published: December 2012

Effects of N-geranyl cyclopropylcarboxamide (NGCC) and four structurally related compounds ( N-cyclopropyl E2,Z6-nonadienamide, N-geranyl isobutanamide, N-geranyl 2-methylbutanamide, and allyl N-geranyl carbamate) were evaluated on the chorda tympani (CT) nerve response to NaCl and monosodium glutamate (MSG) in rats and wild-type (WT) and TRPV1 knockout (KO) mice and on human salty and umami taste intensity. NGCC enhanced the rat CT response to 100 mM NaCl + 5 μM benzamil (Bz; an epithelial Na+ channel blocker) between 1 and 2.5 μM and inhibited it above 5 μM. N-(3-methoxyphenyl)-4-chlorocinnamid (SB-366791, a TRPV1t blocker) inhibited the NaCl+Bz CT response in the absence and presence of NGCC. Unlike the WT mice, no NaCl+Bz CT response was observed in TRPV1 KO mice in the absence or presence of NGCC. NGCC enhanced human salt taste intensity of fish soup stock containing 60 mM NaCl at 5 and 10 μM and decreased it at 25 μM. Rat CT responses to NaCl+Bz and human salt sensory perception were not affected by the above four structurally related compounds. Above 10 μM, NGCC increased the CT response to MSG+Bz+SB-366791 and maximally enhanced the response between 40 and 60 μM. Increasing taste cell Ca2+ inhibited the NGCC-induced increase but not the inosine monophosphate-induced increase in glutamate response. Addition of 45 μM NGCC to chicken broth containing 60 mM sodium enhanced the human umami taste intensity. Thus, depending upon its concentration, NGCC modulates salt taste by interacting with the putative TRPV1t-dependent salt taste receptor and umami taste by interacting with a Ca2+-dependent transduction pathway.
Gating of attentional effort through the central thalamus
Authors: Schiff N. D. , Shah S. A. , Hudson A. E. , Nauvel T. , Kalik S. F. , Purpura K. P.
Published: December 2012

The central thalamus plays an important role in the regulation of arousal and allocation of attentional resources in the performance of even simple tasks. To assess the contribution of central thalamic neurons to short-term adjustments of attentional effort, we analyzed 166 microelectrode recordings obtained from two rhesus monkeys performing a visuomotor simple reaction time task with a variable foreperiod. Multiunit responses showed maintained firing rate elevations during the variable delay period of the task in ∼24% of recording sites. Simultaneously recorded local field potentials demonstrated significant decreases in power at ∼10–20 Hz and increases in power at 30–100 Hz during the delay period when compared against precue baselines. Comparison of the spectral power of local field potentials during the delay period of correct and incorrect trials showed that, during incorrect trials, similar, but reduced, shifts of spectral power occurred within the same frequency bands. Sustained performance of even simple tasks requires regulation of arousal and attention that combine in the concept of “attentional effort”. Our findings suggest that central thalamic neurons regulate task performance through brief changes in firing rates and spectral power changes during task-relevant short-term shifts of attentional effort. Increases in attentional effort may be reflected in changes within the central thalamic local populations, where correct task performance associates with more robust maintenance of firing rates during the delay period. Such ongoing fluctuations of central thalamic activity likely reflect a mix of influences, including variations in moment-to-moment levels of motivation, arousal, and availability of cognitive resources.
Allocation of attention across saccades
Authors: Jonikaitis Donatas , Szinte Martin , Rolfs Martin , Cavanagh Patrick
Published: December 2012

Whenever the eyes move, spatial attention must keep track of the locations of targets as they shift on the retina. This study investigated transsaccadic updating of visual attention to cued targets. While observers prepared a saccade, we flashed an irrelevant, but salient, color cue in their visual periphery and measured the allocation of spatial attention before and after the saccade using a tilt discrimination task. We found that just before the saccade, attention was allocated to the cue's future retinal location, its predictively “remapped” location. Attention was sustained at the cue's location in the world across the saccade, despite the change of retinal position whereas it decayed quickly at the retinal location of the cue, after the eye landed. By extinguishing the color cue across the saccade, we further demonstrate that the visual system relies only on predictive allocation of spatial attention, as the presence of the cue after the saccade did not substantially affect attentional allocation. These behavioral results support and extend physiological evidence showing predictive activation of visual neurons when an attended stimulus will fall in their receptive field after a saccade. Our results show that tracking of spatial locations across saccades is a plausible consequence of physiological remapping.
Technological Approaches to Remote Monitoring of Elderly People in Cardiology: A Usability Perspective
Authors: Spinsante Susanna , Antonicelli Roberto , Mazzanti Ilaria , Gambi Ennio
Published: December 2012

Moving from the experience gained in home telemonitoring of elderly patients with Congestive Heart Failure, that confirmed a reduction of the rehospitalization rate and an improved monitoring of drugs assumption by the patients, this paper extends the evaluation of technological approaches for remote health monitoring of older adults. Focus of the evaluation is on telemedicine effectiveness and usability, either from a patient’s or a medical operator’s perspective. The evaluation has been performed by testing three remote health platforms designed according to different technological approaches, in a realistic scenario involving older adults and medical operators (doctors and nurses). The aim of the testing activity was not to benchmark a specific solution with respect to the others, but to evaluate the main positive and negative issues related to the system and service design philosophy each solution was built upon. Though preliminary, the results discussed in the paper can be used as a set of guidelines in the selection of proper technological equipments for services targeted to elderly users, from a usability perspective. These results need to be complemented with more focused discussions of the ethical, medical, and legal aspects of the use of technology in remote healthcare.
Pure Large Cell Neuroendocrine Carcinoma of Ovary: A Rare Clinical Entity and Review of Literature
Authors: Shakuntala P. N. , Uma Devi K. , Shobha K. , Bafna U. D. , Geetashree M.
Published: December 2012

Large cell neuroendocrine carcinoma (LCNEC) of the ovary is a rare tumor and is now included in the World Health Organization tumor classification. Its prognosis is generally very poor even when the diagnosis is made at an early stage. We report a case of pure large cell neuroendocrine tumour of ovary, appearing 9 months following laparoscopic type I hysterectomy, bilateral pelvic lymph node dissection with ovarian preservation of anatomically normal looking ovaries performed for a cervical biopsy diagnosis of cervical intraepithelial neoplasia grade III with foci of invasion. The rarity lies in the rapid onset (9 months) of a large tumor following conservation of an anatomically normal ovaries. Surgical debulking and five cycles of chemotherapy (Etoposide and Cisplatin) were administered to the woman. She is on followup with no clinical or radiological evidence of disease recurrence for 6 months.
Hybrid Solar: A Review on Photovoltaic and Thermal Power Integration
Authors: Chow T. T. , Tiwari G. N. , Menezo C.
Published: December 2012

The market of solar thermal and photovoltaic electricity generation is growing rapidly. New ideas on hybrid solar technology evolve for a wide range of applications, such as in buildings, processing plants, and agriculture. In the building sector in particular, the limited building space for the accommodation of solar devices has driven a demand on the use of hybrid solar technology for the multigeneration of active power and/or passive solar devices. The importance is escalating with the worldwide trend on the development of low-carbon/zero-energy buildings. Hybrid photovoltaic/thermal (PVT) collector systems had been studied theoretically, numerically, and experimentally in depth in the past decades. Together with alternative means, a range of innovative products and systems has been put forward. The final success of the integrative technologies relies on the coexistence of robust product design/construction and reliable system operation/maintenance in the long run to satisfy the user needs. This paper gives a broad review on the published academic works, with an emphasis placed on the research and development activities in the last decade.
Effects of Turbulent Reynolds Number on the Performance of Algebraic Flame Surface Density Models for Large Eddy Simulation in the Thin Reaction Zones Regime: A Direct Numerical Simulation Analysis
Authors: Katragadda Mohit , Chakraborty Nilanjan , Cant R. S.
Published: December 2012

A direct numerical simulation (DNS) database of freely propagating statistically planar turbulent premixed flames with a range of different turbulent Reynolds numbers has been used to assess the performance of algebraic flame surface density (FSD) models based on a fractal representation of the flame wrinkling factor. The turbulent Reynolds number Rethas been varied by modifying the Karlovitz number Ka and the Damköhler number Da independently of each other in such a way that the flames remain within the thin reaction zones regime. It has been found that the turbulent Reynolds number and the Karlovitz number both have a significant influence on the fractal dimension, which is found to increase with increasing Retand Ka before reaching an asymptotic value for large values of Retand Ka. A parameterisation of the fractal dimension is presented in which the effects of the Reynolds and the Karlovitz numbers are explicitly taken into account. By contrast, the inner cut-off scale normalised by the Zel’dovich flame thicknessηi/δzdoes not exhibit any significant dependence on Retfor the cases considered here. The performance of several algebraic FSD models has been assessed based on various criteria. Most of the algebraic models show a deterioration in performance with increasing the LES filter width.
Gender-Specific Variation in the Prognosis of Papillary Thyroid Cancer TNM Stages II to IV
Authors: Hsieh Sheng-Hwu , Chen Szu-Tah , Hsueh Chuen , Chao Tzu-Chieh , Lin Jen-Der
Published: December 2012

To investigate the correlation between gender and the clinical presentation of papillary thyroid cancer and the long-term followup results, 435 patients who underwent total or near-total thyroidectomy were enrolled in this study. Among these papillary thyroid cancer patients, 12.2% showed lymph node metastases and a higher incidence of male patients in the N1b group. There were 65 from 316 female (20.6%) and 49 from 120 male (40.8%) patients who had a postoperative disease progression. A total of 55 (12.6%) patients died of thyroid cancer. Male patients showed a higher thyroid cancer mortality than the females. Multiple regression analysis showed that male gender was an independent risk factor for cancer recurrence and mortality. Male patients with TNM stages II to IV of papillary thyroid cancer need to adopt aggressive surgical and postoperative131I therapy.
Neural Behavior Chain Learning of Mobile Robot Actions
Authors: Banjanovic-Mehmedovic Lejla , Golic Dzenisan , Mehmedovic Fahrudin , Havic Jasna
Published: December 2012

This paper presents a visual/motor behavior learning approach, based on neural networks. We propose Behavior Chain Model (BCM) in order to create a way of behavior learning. Our behavior-based system evolution task is a mobile robot detecting a target and driving/acting towards it. First, the mapping relations between the image feature domain of the object and the robot action domain are derived. Second, a multilayer neural network for offline learning of the mapping relations is used. This learning structure through neural network training process represents a connection between the visual perceptions and motor sequence of actions in order to grip a target. Last, using behavior learning through a noticed action chain, we can predict mobile robot behavior for a variety of similar tasks in similar environment. Prediction results suggest that the methodology is adequate and could be recognized as an idea for designing different mobile robot behaviour assistance.
Investigating Endothelial Activation and Oxidative Stress in relation to Glycaemic Control in a Multiethnic Population
Authors: Brady E. M. , Webb D. R. , Morris D. H. , Khunti K. , Talbot D. S. C. , Sattar N. , Davies M. J.
Published: December 2012

Aim. An exploration of ethnic differences in measures of oxidative stress and endothelial activation in relation to known cardiovascular risk factors within South Asians (SA) and White Europeans (WE) residing in the UK.Methods. 202 participants within a UK multiethnic population provided biomedical and anthropometric data. Human urinary 2,3-dinor-8-iso-prostaglandin-F1αand plasma ICAM-1 were quantified as measures of oxidative stress and endothelial activation, respectively.Results. 2,3-Dinor-8-iso-prostaglandin-F1αlevels were significantly higher in the SA group compared to WE group (10.36 (95% CI: 9.09, 11.79) versus 8.46 (7.71, 9.29),P=0.021) after adjustment for age, gender, smoking status, body weight, HbA1c, and medication. Oxidative stress was positively associated with HbA1c (β=1.08, 95% CI:1.02, 1.14,P=0.009), fasting(β=1.06, 95% CI: 1.02, 1.10,P=0.002), and 2 hr glucose (β=1.02, 95% CI: 1.00, 1.04,P=0.052). In each adjusted model, SA continued to have elevated levels of oxidative stress compared to WE. ICAM-1 levels were significantly higher in the composite IGR group compared to the normoglycaemic group (P<0.001). No ethnic differences in ICAM-1 were observed.Conclusion. These results suggest that SA are more susceptible to the detrimental effects of hyperglycaemia-induced oxidative stress at lower blood glucose thresholds than WE. Further research into the potential mechanisms involved is warranted.
Early Growth Response Genes Signaling Supports Strong Paracrine Capability of Mesenchymal Stem Cells
Authors: Tamama Kenichi , Barbeau Dominique J.
Published: December 2012

MSCs provide a promising method for cell therapy through their wound healing and tissue regenerative properties. Originally, MSCs' role in wound healing was thought to be tied to their multipotency, but it is now accepted that MSCs mediate the healing process through their strong paracrine capability. EGF was shown to facilitatein vitroexpansion of MSCs without altering multipotency. Our previous data suggest that the molecular machinery underlying MSCs' strong paracrine capability lies downstream of EGFR signaling, and we focus on transcription factors EGR1 and EGR2. Evidence suggests that EGR1 regulates angiogenic and fibrogenic factor production in MSCs, and an EGFR-EGR1-EGFR ligands autocrine loop is one of the underlying mechanisms supporting their strong paracrine machinery through EGR1. EGR2 appears to regulate the expression of immunomodulatory molecules. Chronic nonhealing wounds are ischemic, inflammatory, and often fibrotic, and the hypoxic micro-environment of these wounds may compromise MSCs' wound healing propertiesin vivoby upregulating the EGR1's fibrogenic effects and downregulating the EGR2's immuno-modulatory effects. Thus, these transcription factors can be potential targets in the optimization of cell-based therapies. Further studyin vitrois required to understand MSCs' paracrine machinery and to optimize it as a tool for effective cell-based therapies.
Fault Reconstruction Based on Sliding Mode Observer for Nonlinear Systems
Authors: He Jing , Zhang Changfan
Published: December 2012

This paper presents a precision fault reconstruction scheme for a class of nonlinear systems involving unknown input disturbances. First, using the coordinate transformation algorithm, the disturbances and faults of the system are fully decoupled. Therefore, it is possible to eliminate the influence of disturbances to the system, namely, better disturbances robustness. On this basis, the design of a sliding mode state observer makes the most genuine reconstruction realizable, instead of estimation of faults. Furthermore, with the equivalent principle of sliding mode variable structure, the precision reconstruction of arbitrary nonlinear faults is achieved. Finally, the applications of fault reconstruction in a third‐order nonlinear theoretical model with disturbances and in a single‐link robot system, respectively, have demonstrated the validity of the proposed scheme.
Solving the Fractional Rosenau-Hyman Equation via Variational Iteration Method and Homotopy Perturbation Method
Authors: Yulita Molliq R. , Noorani M. S. M.
Published: December 2012

In this study, fractional Rosenau-Hynam equations is considered. We implement relatively new analytical techniques, the variational iteration method and the homotopy perturbation method, for solving this equation. The fractional derivatives are described in the Caputo sense. The two methods in applied mathematics can be used as alternative methods for obtaining analytic and approximate solutions for fractional Rosenau-Hynam equations. In these schemes, the solution takes the form of a convergent series with easily computable components. The present methods perform extremely well in terms of efficiency and simplicity.
Radioiodine Thyroid Remnant Ablation after Recombinant Human Thyrotropin or Thyroid Hormone Withdrawal in Patients with High-Risk Differentiated Thyroid Cancer
Authors: Pitoia Fabián , Marlowe Robert J. , Abelleira Erika , Faure Eduardo N. , Bueno Fernanda , Schwarzstein Diego , Lutfi Rubén Julio , Niepomniszcze Hugo
Published: December 2012

To supplement limited relevant literature, we retrospectively compared ablation and disease outcomes in high-risk differentiated thyroid carcinoma (DTC) patients undergoing radioiodine thyroid remnant ablation aided by recombinant human thyrotropin (rhTSH) versus thyroid hormone withdrawal/withholding (THW). Our cohort was 45 consecutive antithyroglobulin antibody- (TgAb-) negative, T3-T4/N0-N1-Nx/M0 adults ablated with high activities at three referral centers. Ablation success comprised negative (<1 μg/L) stimulated serum thyroglobulin (Tg) and TgAb, with absent or <0.1% scintigraphic thyroid bed uptake. “No evidence of disease” (NED) comprised negative unstimulated/stimulated Tg and no suspicious neck ultrasonography or pathological imaging or biopsy. “Persistent disease” was failure to achieve NED, “recurrence,” loss of NED status. rhTSH patients (n=18) were oftener ≥45 years old and higher stage (P=0.01), but otherwise not different than THW patients (n=27) at baseline. rhTSH patients were significantly oftener successfully ablated compared to THW patients (83% versus 67%,P<0.02). After respective 3.3 yr and 4.5 yr mean follow-ups (P=0.02), NED was achieved oftener (72% versus 59%) and persistent disease was less frequent in rhTSH patients (22% versus 33%) (both comparisonsP=0.03). rhTSH stimulation is associated with at least as good outcomes as is THW in ablation of high-risk DTC patients.
Advances in the Diagnosis and Treatment of Acanthamoeba Keratitis
Authors: Clarke Benjamin , Sinha Arti , Parmar Dipak N. , Sykakis Evripidis
Published: December 2012

This paper aims to review the recent literature describing Acanthamoeba keratitis and outline current thoughts on pathogenesis, diagnosis, and treatment as well as currently emerging diagnostic and treatment modalities.
Impact of Ship Motions on Maritime Radio Links
Authors: Hubert William , Le Roux Yvon-Marie , Ney Michel , Flamand Anne
Published: December 2012

The improvement of maritime radio links often requires an increase of emitted power or receiver sensitivity. Another way is to replace the poor antenna gains of traditional surface ship whips by novel antenna structures with directive properties. However, ship motions, especially when launches are involved, may affect the radio link quality. Therefore, a tool for modelling the impact of ship motions on such antenna structures was developed. It helps the specification of antenna radiating parameters and improves the radio link performance evaluation. This tool includes a deterministic two-ray model for radio-wave propagation over the sea surface. The geometrical 3D engine for ship motions has the advantage to be compatible with any propagation model and antenna structure.
LMI‐Based Sliding Mode Observers for Incipient Faults Detection in Nonlinear System
Authors: Zhang Chang-fan , Yan Min , He Jing , Luo Cheng
Published: December 2012

This paper presents a diagnosis scheme based on a linear matrix inequality (LMI) algorithm for incipient faults in a nonlinear system class with unknown input disturbances. First, the nonlinear system is transformed into two subsystems, one of which is unrelated to the disturbances. Second, for the subsystem that is free from disturbances, a Luenberger observer is constructed; a sliding mode observer is then constructed for the subsystem which is subjected to disturbances, so that the effect of the unknown input disturbances is eliminated. Together, the entire system achieves both robustness to disturbances and sensitivity to incipient faults. Finally, the effectiveness and feasibility of the proposed method are verified through a numerical example using a single‐link robotic arm.
Metamaterial CRLH Antennas on Silicon Substrate for Millimeter-Wave Integrated Circuits
Authors: Sajin Gheorghe Ioan , Mocanu Iulia Andreea
Published: December 2012

The paper presents two composite right/left-handed (CRLH) coplanar waveguide (CPW) zeroth-order resonant (ZOR) antennas which were designed, processed, and electrically characterized for applications in the millimetric wave frequency range. Two CRLH antennas were developed forf=27 GHz andf=38.5, GHz, respectively. The CRLH antenna onf=27 GHz shows a return loss ofRL<−18.78 dB atf=26.88 GHz. The −3 dB radiation characteristic beamwidth was approximately 37° and the gain wasGi=2.82 dBi. The CRLH antenna onf=38.5 GHz has a return loss ofRL<−38.5 dB atf=38.82 GHz and the −3 dB radiation characteristic beamwidth of approximately 17°. The gains wereGi=1.08 dBi atf=38 GHz andGi=1.2 dBi atf=38.6 GHz. The maximum measured gain wasGi=1.75 dBi atf=38.2 GHz. It is, upon the authors' knowledge, the first report of millimeter wave CRLH antennas on silicon substrate in CPW technique for use in mm-wave monolithic integrated circuit.
Clinical and Pathological Roles of Ro/SSA Autoantibody System
Authors: Yoshimi Ryusuke , Ueda Atsuhisa , Ozato Keiko , Ishigatsubo Yoshiaki
Published: December 2012

Anti-Ro/SSA antibodies are among the most frequently detected autoantibodies against extractable nuclear antigens and have been associated with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) and Sjögren's syndrome (SS). Although the presence of these autoantibodies is one of the criteria for the diagnosis and classification of SS, they are also sometimes seen in other systemic autoimmune diseases. In the last few decades, the knowledge of the prevalence of anti-Ro/SSA antibodies in various autoimmune diseases and symptoms has been expanded, and the clinical importance of these antibodies is increasing. Nonetheless, the pathological role of the antibodies is still poorly understood. In this paper, we summarize the milestones of the anti-Ro/SSA autoantibody system and provide new insights into the association between the autoantibodies and the pathogenesis of autoimmune diseases.
On Some Recent Developments in Ulam′s Type Stability
Authors: Brillouët-Belluot Nicole , Brzdęk Janusz , Ciepliński Krzysztof
Published: December 2012

We present a survey of some selected recent developments (results and methods) in the theory of Ulam′s type stability. In particular we provide some information on hyperstability and the fixed point methods.
Using Neural Network for Determination of Viscosity in Water-TiO2 Nanofluid
Authors: Bahiraei Mehdi , Hosseinalipour Seyed Mostafa , Zabihi Kaveh , Taheran Ehsan
Published: December 2012

Using nanofluids is a novel solution to enhance heat transfer. This study tries to extract the model of viscosity changes in water-TiO2 nanofluid through examining the effect of temperature and volume fraction on the viscosity. Results were recorded and analyzed within temperature range of 25 to 70°C with increments of five for 0.1, 0.4, 0.7, and 1% volume fractions. The obtained results demonstrated that the viscosity of this nanofluid decreases by increasing the temperature and increases by raising the volume fraction. The results show that conventional correlations are unable to properly predict nanofluid viscosity especially at high volume fractions. A model was developed by the data obtained from experiments to estimate viscosity of water-TiO2 nanofluid based on two variables of temperature and volume fraction using neural network. The proposed model was qualified as highly competent for determination of nanofluid viscosity.
The Creation of Cybrids Harboring Mitochondrial Haplogroups in the Taiwanese Population of Ethnic Chinese Background: An ExtensiveIn VitroTool for the Study of Mitochondrial Genomic Variations
Authors: Lin Tsu-Kung , Lin Hung-Yu , Chen Shang-Der , Chuang Yao-Chung , Chuang Jiin-Haur , Wang Pei-Wen , Huang Sheng-Teng , Tiao Mao-Meng , Chen Jin-Bor , Liou Chia-Wei
Published: December 2012

Mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) haplogroups may contribute to the development of aging-related diseases. A reliablein vitrocellular system for investigating the physiologic significance of mtDNA haplogroups is essential. This study aims to construct and characterize a series of cybrid cell lines harboring variant mtDNA haplogroups collected from healthy Taiwanese volunteers. Cybrid cells harboring different mtDNA haplogroups like B4a, B4b, B4c, B4d, B5, R, F1a, F2, D4e, D4a, D5b, D5a, E, M8, C, and N9a were prepared. Luminex 1000 and full-length mtDNA sequencing were used to confirm that mtDNA haplogroups of transmitochondrial cybrids were identical to their original donors. Cybrid B4b had a significantly lower oxygen consumption rate and higher mitochondrial membrane potential compared to F1a, B5, D5a, D4a, and N9a but had more susceptibility to H2O2-induced oxidative stress than cybrid F1a, D4a, and N9a. Cybrid N9a had better oxygen consumption and H2O2-challenged viability compared to B4b, F1a, B5, D5a, and D4a. A series of cybrid cells harboring the main haplogroups of the Taiwanese population with ethnic Chinese background has been developedin vitro. With this mtDNA haplogroup population, the underlying mechanisms of aging-related diseases may be better understood, and therapeutic interventions can be accelerated.
Forecasting Computer Products Sales by Integrating Ensemble Empirical Mode Decomposition and Extreme Learning Machine
Authors: Lu Chi-Jie , Shao Yuehjen E.
Published: December 2012

A hybrid forecasting model that integrates ensemble empirical model decomposition (EEMD), and extreme learning machine (ELM) for computer products sales is proposed. The EEMD is a new piece of signal processing technology. It is based on the local characteristic time scales of a signal and could decompose the complicated signal into intrinsic mode functions (IMFs). The ELM is a novel learning algorithm for single‐hidden‐layer feedforward networks. In our proposed approach, the initial task is to apply the EEMD method to decompose the original sales data into a number of IMFs. The hidden useful information of the original data could be discovered in those IMFs. The IMFs are then integrated with the ELM method to develop an effective forecasting model for computer products sales. Experimental results from three real computer products sales data, including hard disk, display card, and notebook, showed that the proposed hybrid sales forecasting method outperforms the four comparative models and is an effective alternative for forecasting sales of computer products.
Association between Polymorphisms in Interleukin-17A and -17F Genes and Chronic Periodontal Disease
Authors: Corrêa Jôice Dias , Madeira Mila Fernandes Moreira , Resende Renata Gonçalves , Correia-Silva Jeane de Fátima , Gomez Ricardo Santiago , Souza Danielle da Glória de , Teixeira Mauro Martins , Queiroz-Junior Celso Martins , Silva Tarcília Aparecida da
Published: December 2012

Objective. Interleukin-17 (IL-17) is a cytokine that induces neutrophil recruitment and the release of inflammatory mediators in several inflammatory conditions; nevertheless, the involvement of IL-17 gene polymorphisms in chronic periodontitis (CP) has not been addressed yet. Our aim was to evaluate the association between periodontal status and the polymorphisms IL-17A G197A and IL-17F C7488T in subjects with CP along with their impact on levels of inflammatory mediators.Material and Methods. Genomic DNA was obtained from 30 CP patients and 30 healthy controls (HCs). IL-17A G197A and IL-17F C7488T polymorphisms were determined using PCR-RFLP. Serum and periodontal tissues were collected and processed for ELISA, myeloperoxidase (MPO), and/or microscopic analysis.Results. The frequencies of genotypes in the CP group were significantly different from those of HC. Odds ratio indicated that increased risks for CP were associated with the -197A allele, not with the -7488T allele. In addition, the -197A allele was correlated with worse clinical parameters, higher MPO activity, and increased expression of inflammatory mediators (IL-17A and IL-8) than the other genotypes.Conclusions. These results indicate that the IL-17A -197A allele is associated with increased risk for CP, likely because this genotype relates to the enhanced inflammation in periodontal tissues.
Fading Analysis for the High Speed Railway Viaduct and Terrain Cutting Scenarios
Authors: Lu Jinghui , Zhu Gang , Ai Bo
Published: December 2012

A good understanding of the fading characteristics in high speed railway environment is essential for the design of a high reliable railway wireless network. In this paper, measurements have been taken in both high speed viaduct and terrain cutting scenarios using track side base stations (BSs) of the railway wireless network in China. The measurement sites have been chosen with special care; thus the whole measured route can be characterized either by viaduct or terrain cutting. Kolmogorov-Smirnov (K-S) test has been first introduced in the statistical analysis to find out which is the most appropriate model for the small scale fading envelope. Though both Rice and Nakagami distributions provide a good fit to the first-order envelope data in both scenarios, only the Rice model generally fits the second-order statistics data accurately. For the viaduct scenario, higher RiceKfactor can be observed. The change tendency of theKfactor as a function of distance in the two scenarios is completely different. It can be concluded that the over bridges which span the railway tracks in terrain cutting scenario would affect the RiceKvalue severely.
Self-Management in Daily Life with Psoriasis: An Integrative Review of Patient Needs for Structured Education
Authors: Rasmussen Gitte Susanne , Maindal Helle Terkildsen , Lomborg Kirsten
Published: December 2012

The aim of this integrative review is to identify and discuss patient needs for education to support self-management in daily life with psoriasis. As psoriasis increasingly gains recognition as a serious chronic autoimmune skin disease with long-term impairment on the life course, and not mainly a cosmetic problem, nurses are highly challenged to develop efficient education to support patient self-management. The paper includes five stages: (1) problem identification, (2) literature search, (3) data evaluation, (4) data analysis and synthesis, and (5) presentation, based on theoretic scaffolding around the concept “need.” Nineteen of 164 original papers within nursing, medicine and psychology, and reflecting patient perspective were included. To capture the patients’ cultural understanding of the implications of the disease and care, we developed an interlevel model indicating that self-experienced burden of disease and its visibility, personal conditions such as illness perception, and the patient’s age at onset time are high-impact factors that should be addressed in future structured patient education programmes. The research on patient needs has hitherto focused on adults, but the problems and vulnerability associated with having a chronic and visible disease during adolescence must be acknowledged, and patient education initiatives designed for this young group are recommended.
The Extended Fractional Subequation Method for NonlinearFractional Differential Equations
Authors: Zhao Jianping , Tang Bo , Kumar Sunil , Hou Yanren
Published: December 2012

An extended fractional subequation method is proposed for solving fractional differential equations by introducing a new general ansätz and Bäcklund transformation of the fractional Riccati equation with known solutions. Being concise and straightforward, this method is applied to the space‐time fractional coupled Burgers’ equations and coupled MKdV equations. As a result, many exact solutions are obtained. It is shown that the considered method provides a very effective, convenient, and powerful mathematical tool for solving fractional differential equations.
Comment on “Variational Iteration Method for Fractional Calculus Using He’s Polynomials”
Authors: He Ji-Huan
Published: December 2012

Recently Liu applied the variational homotopy perturbation method for fractional initial
boundary value problems. This note concludes that the method is a modified variational iteration method using He’s polynomials.
A standard variational iteration algorithm for fractional differential equations is suggested.
The Pivotal Role of TBK1 in Inflammatory Responses Mediated by Macrophages
Authors: Yu Tao , Yi Young-Su , Yang Yanyan , Oh Jueun , Jeong Deok , Cho Jae Youl
Published: December 2012

Inflammation is a complex biological response of tissues to harmful stimuli such as pathogens, cell damage, or irritants. Inflammation is considered to be a major cause of most chronic diseases, especially in more than 100 types of inflammatory diseases which include Alzheimer's disease, rheumatoid arthritis, asthma, atherosclerosis, Crohn's disease, colitis, dermatitis, hepatitis, and Parkinson's disease. Recently, an increasing number of studies have focused on inflammatory diseases. TBK1 is a serine/threonine-protein kinase which regulates antiviral defense, host-virus interaction, and immunity. It is ubiquitously expressed in mouse stomach, colon, thymus, and liver. Interestingly, high levels of active TBK1 have also been found to be associated with inflammatory diseases, indicating that TBK1 is closely related to inflammatory responses. Even though relatively few studies have addressed the functional roles of TBK1 relating to inflammation, this paper discusses some recent findings that support the critical role of TBK1 in inflammatory diseases and underlie the necessity of trials to develop useful remedies or therapeutics that target TBK1 for the treatment of inflammatory diseases.
A Communal Sign Post of Snow Leopards (Panthera uncia) and Other Species on the Tibetan Plateau, China
Authors: Li Juan , Schaller George B. , McCarthy Thomas M. , Wang Dajun , Jiagong Zhala , Cai Ping , Basang Lamao , Lu Zhi
Published: December 2012

The snow leopard is a keystone species in mountain ecosystems of Central Asia and the Tibetan Plateau. However, little is known about the interactions between snow leopards and sympatric carnivores. Using infrared cameras, we found a rocky junction of two valleys in Sanjiangyuan area on the Tibetan Plateau where many mammals in this area passed and frequently marked and sniffed the site at the junction. We suggest that this site serves as a sign post to many species in this area, especially snow leopards and other carnivores. The marked signs may also alert the animals passing by to temporally segregate their activities to avoid potential conflicts. We used the Schoener index to measure the degree of temporal segregation among the species captured by infrared camera traps at this site. Our research reveals the probable ways of both intra- and interspecies communication and demonstrates that the degree of temporal segregation may correlate with the degree of potential interspecies competition. This is an important message to help understand the structure of animal communities. Discovery of the sign post clarifies the importance of identifying key habitats and sites of both snow leopards and other species for more effective conservation.
Synthesis and Characterization of Modified Cellulose Acetate Propionate Nanocomposites via Sol-Gel Process
Authors: Wojciechowska Patrycja , Foltynowicz Zenon , Nowicki Marek
Published: December 2012

In this study novel organic-inorganic hybrid nanocomposites were synthesized from modified cellulose acetate propionate (MCAP) via sol-gel reaction at ambient temperature. The inorganic phase was introduced in situ by hydrolysis-condensation of tetraethoxysilane (TEOS) in different concentrations, under acid catalysis, in the presence of organic polymer dissolved in acetone. The chemical modification of CAP was monitored by infrared spectroscopy (IR). The nanocomposites structure was characterized by IR analysis and solid state29Si NMR studies. The spectral data revealed that organic and inorganic phases are linked through covalent bound. Surface morphology of the samples and the degree of dispersion of inorganic phase in the polymer matrix were investigated using atomic force microscopy (AFM) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The actual incorporation of the inorganic component into the hybrid nanocomposites was deducted from the residual weight according to thermogravimetric analysis (TGA).
Arsenic Removal from Aqueous Solutions by Salvadora persica Stem Ash
Authors: Kord Mostafapour Ferdos , Bazrafshan Edris , Farzadkia Mahdi , Amini Samira
Published: December 2012

Arsenic is a naturally occurring metalloid, which is widely distributed in nature and is regarded as the largest mass poisoning in history. In the present study, the adsorption potential of Salvadora persica (S. persica) stem ash in a batch system for the removal of As(V) from aqueous solutions was investigated. Isotherm studies were carried out to evaluate the effect of contact time (20–240 min), pH (2–11), initial arsenic concentration (50–500 μg/L), and adsorbent dose on sorption efficiency. Maximum removal efficiency of 98.33% and 99.32% was obtained at pH 6, adsorbent dosage 3.5 g/L, initial As(V) concentration 500 μg/L, and contact time 80 and 60 min for S. persica stem ash at 300 °C and 500 °C, respectively. Also, the adsorption equilibriums were analyzed by the Langmuir and Freundlich isotherm models. Such equilibriums showed that the adsorption data was well fitted with the Freundlich isotherm model for S. persica stem ash at both 300 °C and 500 °C (R2 = 0.8983 and 0.9274, resp.). According to achieved results, it was defined that S. persica stem ash can be used effectively for As(V) removal from the aqueous environment.
Subchronic Oral Bromocriptine Methanesulfonate Enhances Open Field Novelty-Induced Behavior and Spatial Memory in Male Swiss Albino Mice
Authors: Onaolapo Olakunle James , Onaolapo Adejoke Yetunde
Published: December 2012

This study set out to assess the neurobehavioral effects of subchronic, oral bromocriptine methanesulfonate using the open field and the Y-maze in healthy male mice. Sixty adult Swiss albino mice were assigned into three groups. Controls received normal saline, while test groups received bromocriptine methanesulfonate at 2.5 and 5 mg/kg/day, respectively, for a period of 21 days. Neurobehavioral tests were carried out on days 1 and 21 after administration. Open field assessment on day 1 after administration revealed significant increase in grooming at 2.5 and 5 mg/kg, while horizontal and vertical locomotion showed no significant changes. Day 1 also showed no significant changes in Y-maze alternation. On day 21, horizontal locomotion, rearing, and grooming were increased significantly at 2.5 and 5 mg/kg doses after administration; also, spatial memory was significantly enhanced at 2.5 mg/kg. In conclusion, the study demonstrates the ability of oral bromocriptine to affect neurobehavior in normal mice. It also suggests that there is a cumulative effect of oral bromocriptine on the behaviors studied with more changes being seen after subchronic administration rather than after a single oral dose.
Proinflammatory Homeobox Gene, ISX, Regulates Tumor Growth and Survival in Hepatocellular Carcinoma
Authors: Hsu Shih-Hsien , Wang Li-Ting , Lee King-Teh , Chen Yao-Li , Liu Kwei-Yan , Suen Jau-Ling , Chai Chee-Yin , Wang Shen-Nien
Published: December 2012

Chronic inflammation drives initiation of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), but the underlying mechanisms linking inflammation and tumor formation remain obscure. In this study, we compared the expression of interleukin (IL)-6 and cyclin D1 (CCND1) with the IL-6–induced homeobox gene ISX (intestine-specific homeobox) in 119 paired specimens of HCCs and adjacent normal tissues and also in paired specimens from 11 patients with non-HCCs. In pathologic analysis, ISX exhibited a tumor-specific expression pattern and a high correlation to patient survival time, tumor size, tumor number, and progression stage. Enforced expression of ISX accelerated cell proliferation and tumorigenic activity in hepatoma cells through CCND1 induction. In contrast, short hairpin RNA–mediated attenuation of ISX in hepatoma cells decreased cell proliferation and malignant transformation in vitro and in vivo. A high positive correlation existed in human hepatoma tumors between ISX and CCND1 expression. Together, our results highlight ISX as an important regulator in hepatoma progression with significant potential as a prognostic and therapeutic target in HCCs. Cancer Res; 73(2); 508–18. ©2012 AACR.
Dual Blockade of HER2 in HER2-Overexpressing Tumor Cells Does Not Completely Eliminate HER3 Function
Authors: Garrett Joan T. , Sutton Cammie R. , Kuba María Gabriela , Cook Rebecca S. , Arteaga Carlos L.
Published: December 2012

Purpose: Dual blockade of HER2 with trastuzumab and lapatinib or with pertuzumab is a superior treatment approach compared with single-agent HER2 inhibitors. However, many HER2-overexpressing breast cancers still escape from this combinatorial approach. Inhibition of HER2 and downstream phosphoinositide 3-kinase (PI3K)/AKT causes a transcriptional and posttranslational upregulation of HER3 which, in turn, counteracts the antitumor action of the HER2-directed therapies. We hypothesized that suppression of HER3 would synergize with dual blockade of HER2 in breast cancer cells sensitive and refractory to HER2 antagonists.

Experimental Design: Inhibition of HER2/HER3 in HER2+ breast cancer cell lines was evaluated by Western blotting. We analyzed drug-induced apoptosis and two- and three-dimensional growth in vitro. Growth inhibition of PI3K was examined in vivo in xenografts treated with combinations of trastuzumab, lapatinib, and the HER3-neutralizing monoclonal antibody U3-1287.

Results: Treatment with U3-1287 blocked the upregulation of total and phosphorylated HER3 that followed treatment with lapatinib and trastuzumab and, in turn, enhanced the antitumor action of the combination against trastuzumab-sensitive and -resistant cells. Mice bearing HER2+ xenografts treated with lapatinib, trastuzumab, and U3-1287 exhibited fewer recurrences and better survival than mice treated with lapatinib and trastuzumab.

Conclusions: Dual blockade of HER2 with trastuzumab and lapatinib does not eliminate the compensatory upregulation of HER3. Therapeutic inhibitors of HER3 should be considered as part of multidrug combinations aimed at completely and rapidly disabling the HER2 network in HER2-overexpressing breast cancers. Clin Cancer Res; 19(3); 610–9. ©2012 AACR.
CREB-Binding Protein Regulates Ku70 Acetylation in Response to Ionization Radiation in Neuroblastoma
Authors: Subramanian Chitra , Hada Manila , Opipari Anthony W. , Castle Valerie P. , Kwok Roland P.S.
Published: December 2012

Ku70 was originally described as an autoantigen, but it also functions as a DNA repair protein in the nucleus and as an antiapoptotic protein by binding to Bax in the cytoplasm, blocking Bax-mediated cell death. In neuroblastoma (NB) cells, Ku70′s binding with Bax is regulated by Ku70 acetylation such that increasing Ku70 acetylation results in Bax release, triggering cell death. Although regulating cytoplasmic Ku70 acetylation is important for cell survival, the role of nuclear Ku70 acetylation in DNA repair is unclear. Here, we showed that Ku70 acetylation in the nucleus is regulated by the CREB-binding protein (CBP), and that Ku70 acetylation plays an important role in DNA repair in NB cells. We treated NB cells with ionization radiation and measured DNA repair activity as well as Ku70 acetylation status. Cytoplasmic and nuclear Ku70 were acetylated after ionization radiation in NB cells. Interestingly, cytoplasmic Ku70 was redistributed to the nucleus following irradiation. Depleting CBP in NB cells results in reducing Ku70 acetylation and enhancing DNA repair activity in NB cells, suggesting nuclear Ku70 acetylation may have an inhibitory role in DNA repair. These results provide support for the hypothesis that enhancing Ku70 acetylation, through deacetylase inhibition, may potentiate the effect of ionization radiation in NB cells. Mol Cancer Res; 11(2); 173–81. ©2012 AACR.