bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Vacuum Tribological Properties of a Ti-46Al-2Cr-2Nb Intermetallics
Authors: Cheng Jun , Ma Jiqiang , Yu Yuan , Fu Licai , Qiao Zhuhui , Yang Jun , Li Jinshan , Liu Weimin
Published: November 2013

In order to investigate the vacuum tribological properties of a Ti-46Al-2Cr-2Nb alloy, dry-sliding tribological tests of the alloy against AISI 52,100 steel ball under different sliding speeds and loads were performed at a high vacuum of 4.0 × 10−4 Pa by ball-on-disk rotating configuration, and the same tests were done in air for comparative purposes. It is an important finding that the TiAl intermetallics have good wear resistance in vacuum, not like that in air. The wear rate of the Ti-46Al-2Cr-2Nb alloy in vacuum is almost lower by an order of magnitude than that in air.
Effects of magnetic flux density and substrate bias voltage on Ni films prepared on a flexible substrate material using unbalanced magnetron sputtering assisted by inductively coupled plasma
Authors: Koda Tatsunori , Toyota Hiroshi
Published: November 2013

The authors fabricated Ni films on a flexible substrate material using unbalanced magnetron sputtering assisted by inductively coupled plasma. The effects of magnetic flux density BC and substrate DC bias voltage VS on the Ni film structures were investigated. For VS = −40 V, the average surface grain size DG measured by atomic force microscopy for BC = 0, 3, and 5 mT was 88.2, 95.4, and 104.4 nm, respectively. In addition, DG increased with VS. From x-ray diffraction measurements, the (111) and (200) peaks were clearly visible for the fabricated Ni films. The ratio of the integrated intensities of I(111)/I(200) increased with VS. For VS = −40 V and BC = 3 mT, a film resistivity ρ of 8.96 × 10−6 Ω cm was observed, which is close to the Ni bulk value of 6.84 × 10−6 Ω cm. From these results, the authors determined that the structure of the fabricated Ni films on the flexible substrate material was affected by the values of BC and VS.
Highly transparent Nb-doped indium oxide electrodes for organic solar cells
Authors: Kim Jun Ho , Seong Tae-Yeon , Na Seok-In , Chung Kwun-Bum , Lee Hye-Min , Kim Han-Ki
Published: November 2013

The authors investigated the characteristics of Nb-doped In2O3 (INbO) films prepared by co-sputtering of Nb2O5 and In2O3 for use in transparent anodes for organic solar cells (OSCs). To optimize the Nb dopant composition in the In2O3 matrix, the effect of the Nb doping power on the resistivity and transparency of the INbO films were examined. The electronic structure and microstructure of the INbO films were also investigated using synchrotron x-ray absorption spectroscopy and x-ray diffraction examinations in detail. At the optimized Nb co-sputtering power of 30 W, the INbO film exhibited a sheet resistance of 15 Ω/sq, and an optical transmittance of 86.04% at 550 nm, which are highly acceptable for the use as transparent electrodes in the fabrication of OSCs. More importantly, the comparable power conversion efficiency (3.34%) of the OSC with an INbO anode with that (3.31%) of an OSC with a commercial ITO anode indicates that INbO films are promising as a transparent electrode for high performance OSCs.
Faraday's first dynamo: A retrospective
Authors: Smith Glenn S.
Published: November 2013

In the early 1830s, Michael Faraday performed his seminal experimental research on electromagnetic induction, in which he created the first electric dynamo—a machine for continuously converting rotational mechanical energy into electrical energy. His machine was a conducting disc, rotating between the poles of a permanent magnet, with the voltage/current obtained from brushes contacting the disc. In his first dynamo, the magnetic field was asymmetric with respect to the axis of the disc. This is to be contrasted with some of his later symmetric designs, which are the ones almost invariably discussed in textbooks on electromagnetism. In this paper, a theoretical analysis is developed for Faraday's first dynamo. From this analysis, the eddy currents in the disc and the open-circuit voltage for arbitrary positioning of the brushes are determined. The approximate analysis is verified by comparing theoretical results with measurements made on an experimental recreation of the dynamo. Quantitative results from the analysis are used to elucidate Faraday's qualitative observations, from which he learned so much about electromagnetic induction. For the asymmetric design, the eddy currents in the disc dissipate energy that makes the dynamo inefficient, prohibiting its use as a practical generator of electric power. Faraday's experiments with his first dynamo provided valuable insight into electromagnetic induction, and this insight was quickly used by others to design practical generators.
Beyond Stem Cells: Self-Renewal of Differentiated Macrophages
Authors: Sieweke Michael H. , Allen Judith E.
Published: November 2013

Background

Many mature cells of the body are continuously replaced, particularly in tissues that are most exposed to the environment such as cells of the immune system. The need for new cells is driven by cellular turnover during normal tissue homeostasis and is further increased upon infection. Because differentiated cells typically withdraw from the cell cycle, replacement of mature cells is generally thought to depend on differentiation of self-renewing, tissue-specific stem cells. Until recently, tissue macrophages were thought to follow such a pathway, developing from hematopoietic stem cells via bone marrow–progenitor and blood monocyte intermediates. But this view has changed of late with several observations indicating that macrophages can self-renew by local proliferation of mature differentiated cells.

Advances

Recent studies have demonstrated that in macrophages, differentiation and cell cycle withdrawal can be uncoupled by the inactivation of specific transcription factors. These cells can then be expanded indefinitely as functionally differentiated macrophages without tumorigenic transformation. At the same time, it became clear that mature macrophages could also expand massively in vivo in response to infections by local proliferation, independently of input from adult hematopoietic stem cells. Furthermore, several populations of tissue macrophages were found to be derived from embryonic progenitors, and macrophages can be self-maintained in adult tissues by local proliferation. Together, these recent data suggest that macrophages are mature differentiated cells that may be endowed with self-renewal capacity akin to that of stem cells.

Outlook

These findings challenge the classical view of tissue maintenance by adult tissue-specific stem cells and indicate that stem cell–like self-renewal mechanisms may be activated in mature differentiated cells. It will be important to determine whether the engaged pathways resemble those active in stem cells and whether they might be activated in other cell types as well. Furthermore, we need to understand how such self-renewal capacity differs from uncontrolled proliferation induced by oncogenic transformation. A first step will be to explore how macrophage proliferation is regulated in vivo: How do macrophages adapt their cell numbers to diverse tissue requirements, from near quiescence during homeostasis to massive expansion under challenge? Macrophages are present in nearly every tissue and serve important functions in immunity, cancer, metabolism, and tissue repair. The role of local macrophage proliferation in these processes has remained largely unexplored. It will be important to investigate how the consequences of macrophage accumulation by local proliferation differ from those of monocyte-derived macrophage recruitment under inflammatory conditions. The control of macrophage numbers independent of inflammatory signals may provide new opportunities for therapeutic intervention in many of these areas.
Selective C-H Fluorination of Pyridines and Diazines Inspired by a Classic Amination Reaction
Authors: Fier Patrick S. , Hartwig John F.
Published: November 2013

Fluorinating Pyridine

Appending fluorine substituents to carbon centers is commonly used to tune small-molecule properties in pharmaceutical and agrochemical research. However, fluorinations often require the use of corrosive, hazardous reagents.
Fier and Hartwig
(p.
956
) present an unusually mild and convenient protocol for fluorinating carbon sites adjacent to nitrogen in pyridines and related nitrogen-bearing arenes. The reaction entails treatment with silver difluoride and proceeds rapidly at room temperature.
Metamaterials Beyond Optics
Authors: Wegener Martin
Published: November 2013

The area of metamaterials may expand to find application in mechanics, acoustics, and thermodynamics.
Unwanted Evolution
Authors: Bozic Ivana , Nowak Martin A.
Published: November 2013

The dynamics of stem cell replacement at the bottom of the intestinal crypt is visualized and quantified.

[Also see Report by

Vermeulen
et al.

]
Clinical Insights from Metagenomic Analysis of Sputum Samples from Patients with Cystic Fibrosis
Authors: Lim Yan Wei , Evangelista Jose S. , Schmieder Robert , Bailey Barbara , Haynes Matthew , Furlan Mike , Maughan Heather , Edwards Robert , Rohwer Forest , Conrad Douglas
Published: November 2013

As DNA sequencing becomes faster and cheaper, genomics-based approaches are being explored for their use in personalized diagnoses and treatments. Here, we provide a proof of principle for disease monitoring using personal metagenomic sequencing and traditional clinical microbiology by focusing on three adults with cystic fibrosis (CF). The CF lung is a dynamic environment that hosts a complex ecosystem composed of bacteria, viruses, and fungi that can vary in space and time. Not surprisingly, the microbiome data from the induced sputum samples we collected revealed a significant amount of species diversity not seen in routine clinical laboratory cultures. The relative abundances of several species changed as clinical treatment was altered, enabling the identification of the climax and attack communities that were proposed in an earlier work. All patient microbiomes encoded a diversity of mechanisms to resist antibiotics, consistent with the characteristics of multidrug-resistant microbial communities that are commonly observed in CF patients. The metabolic potentials of these communities differed by the health status and recovery route of each patient. Thus, this pilot study provides an example of how metagenomic data might be used with clinical assessments for the development of treatments tailored to individual patients.
Global Improvement in Genotyping of Human Papillomavirus DNA: the 2011 HPV LabNet International Proficiency Study
Authors: Eklund Carina , Forslund Ola , Wallin Keng-Ling , Dillner Joakim
Published: November 2013

Accurate and internationally comparable human papillomavirus (HPV) DNA genotyping is essential for HPV vaccine research and for HPV surveillance. The HPV Laboratory Network (LabNet) has designed international proficiency studies that can be issued regularly and in a reproducible manner. The 2011 HPV genotyping proficiency panel contained 43 coded samples composed of purified plasmids of 16 HPV types (HPV6, -11, -16, -18, -31, -33, -35, -39, -45, -51, -52, -56, -58, -59, -66, -68a, and -68b) and 3 extraction controls. Tests that detected 50 IU of HPV16 and HPV18 and 500 genome equivalents for the other 14 HPV types in both single and multiple infections were considered proficient. Ninety-six laboratories worldwide submitted 134 data sets. Twenty-five different HPV genotyping assay methods were used, including the Linear Array, line blot/INNO-LiPA, PapilloCheck, and PCR Luminex assays. The major oncogenic HPV types, HPV16 and HPV18, were proficiently detected in 97.0% (113/116) and 87.0% (103/118) of the data sets, respectively. In 2011, 51 data sets (39%) were 100% proficient for the detection of at least one HPV type, and 37 data sets (28%) were proficient for all 16 HPV types; this was an improvement over the panel results from the 2008 and 2010 studies, when <25 data sets (23% and 19% for 2008 and 2010, respectively) were fully proficient. The improvement was also evident for the 54 laboratories that had also participated in the previous proficiency studies. In conclusion, a continuing global proficiency program has documented worldwide improvement in the comparability and reliability of HPV genotyping assay performances.
Pathogens of Bovine Respiratory Disease in North American Feedlots Conferring Multidrug Resistance via Integrative Conjugative Elements
Authors: Klima Cassidy L. , Zaheer Rahat , Cook Shaun R. , Booker Calvin W. , Hendrick Steve , Alexander Trevor W. , McAllister Tim A.
Published: November 2013

In this study, we determined the prevalence of bovine respiratory disease (BRD)-associated viral and bacterial pathogens in cattle and characterized the genetic profiles, antimicrobial susceptibilities, and nature of antimicrobial resistance determinants in collected bacteria. Nasopharyngeal swab and lung tissue samples from 68 BRD mortalities in Alberta, Canada (n= 42), Texas (n= 6), and Nebraska (n= 20) were screened using PCR for bovine viral diarrhea virus (BVDV), bovine respiratory syncytial virus, bovine herpesvirus 1, parainfluenza type 3 virus,Mycoplasma bovis,Mannheimia haemolytica,Pasteurella multocida, andHistophilus somni. Excepting bovine herpesvirus 1, all agents were detected.M. haemolytica(91%) and BVDV (69%) were the most prevalent, with cooccurrence in 63% of the cattle. Isolates ofM. haemolytica(n= 55),P. multocida(n= 8), andH. somni(n= 10) from lungs were also collected. AmongM. haemolyticaisolates, a clonal subpopulation (n= 8) was obtained from a Nebraskan feedlot. All three bacterial pathogens exhibited a high rate of antimicrobial resistance, with 45% exhibiting resistance to three or more antimicrobials.M. haemolytica(n= 18),P. multocida(n= 3), andH. somni(n= 3) from Texas and Nebraska possessed integrative conjugative elements (ICE) that conferred resistance for up to seven different antimicrobial classes. ICE were shown to be transferred via conjugation fromP. multocidatoEscherichia coliand fromM. haemolyticaandH. somnitoP. multocida. ICE-mediated multidrug-resistant profiles of bacterial BRD pathogens could be a major detriment to many of the therapeutic antimicrobial strategies currently used to control BRD.
Novel Woodchuck Hepatitis Virus (WHV) Transgene Mouse Models Show Sex-Dependent WHV Replicative Activity and Development of Spontaneous Immune Responses to WHV Proteins
Authors: Meng Zhongji , Ma Zhiyong , Zhang Ejuan , Kosinska Anna D. , Liu Jia , Zhang Xiaoyong , Zhou Tianlun , Wu Jun , Dahmen Uta , Dirsch Olaf , Yang Dongliang , Roggendorf Michael , Lu Mengji
Published: November 2013

The woodchuck model is an informative model for studies on hepadnaviral infection. In this study, woodchuck hepatitis virus (WHV) transgenic (Tg) mouse models based on C57BL/6 mice were established to study the pathogenesis associated with hepadnaviral infection. Two lineages of WHV Tg mice, harboring the WHV wild-type genome (lineage 1217) and a mutated WHV genome lacking surface antigen (lineage 1281), were generated. WHV replication intermediates were detected by Southern blotting. DNA vaccines against WHV proteins were applied by intramuscular injection. WHV-specific immune responses were analyzed by flow cytometry and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays (ELISAs). The presence of WHV transgenes resulted in liver-specific but sex- and age-dependent WHV replication in Tg mice. Pathological changes in the liver, including hepatocellular dysplasia, were observed in aged Tg mice, suggesting that the presence of WHV transgenes may lead to liver diseases. Interestingly, Tg mice of lineage 1281 spontaneously developed T- and B-cell responses to WHV core protein (WHcAg). DNA vaccination induced specific immune responses to WHV proteins in WHV Tg mice, indicating a tolerance break. The magnitude of the induced WHcAg-specific immune responses was dependent on the effectiveness of different DNA vaccines and was associated with a decrease in WHV loads in mice. In conclusion, sex- and age-dependent viral replication, development of autoimmune responses to viral antigens, pathological changes in the liver in WHV Tg mice, and the possibility of breaking immune tolerance to WHV transgenes will allow future studies on pathogenesis related to hepadnaviral infection and therapeutic vaccines.
Assessing the Susceptibility of Transgenic Mice Overexpressing Deer Prion Protein to Bovine Spongiform Encephalopathy
Authors: Vickery Christopher M. , Lockey Richard , Holder Thomas M. , Thorne Leigh , Beck Katy E. , Wilson Christina , Denyer Margaret , Sheehan John , Marsh Sarah , Webb Paul R. , Dexter Ian , Norman Angela , Popescu Emma , Schneider Amanda , Holden Paul , Griffiths Peter C. , Plater Jane M. , Dagleish Mark P. , Martin Stuart , Telling Glenn C. , Simmons Marion M. , Spiropoulos John
Published: November 2013

Several transgenic mouse models have been developed which facilitate the transmission of chronic wasting disease (CWD) of cervids and allow prion strain discrimination. The present study was designed to assess the susceptibility of the prototypic mouse line, Tg(CerPrP)1536
+/−
, to bovine spongiform encephalopathy (BSE) prions, which have the ability to overcome species barriers. Tg(CerPrP)1536
+/−
mice challenged with red deer-adapted BSE resulted in 90% to 100% attack rates, and BSE from cattle failed to transmit, indicating agent adaptation in the deer.
Activation of Peripheral Blood Mononuclear Cells by Dengue Virus Infection Depotentiates Balapiravir
Authors: Chen Yen-Liang , Abdul Ghafar Nahdiyah , Karuna Ratna , Fu Yilong , Lim Siew Pheng , Schul Wouter , Gu Feng , Herve Maxime , Yokohama Fumiaki , Wang Gang , Cerny Daniela , Fink Katja , Blasco Francesca , Shi Pei-Yong
Published: November 2013

In a recent clinical trial, balapiravir, a prodrug of a cytidine analog (R1479), failed to achieve efficacy (reducing viremia after treatment) in dengue patients, although the plasma trough concentration of R1479 remained above the 50% effective concentration (EC
50
). Here, we report experimental evidence to explain the discrepancy between the
in vitro
and
in vivo
results and its implication for drug development. R1479 lost its potency by 125-fold when balapiravir was used to treat primary human peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs; one of the major cells targeted for viral replication) that were preinfected with dengue virus. The elevated EC
50
was greater than the plasma trough concentration of R1479 observed in dengue patients treated with balapiravir and could possibly explain the efficacy failure. Mechanistically, dengue virus infection triggered PBMCs to generate cytokines, which decreased their efficiency of conversion of R1479 to its triphosphate form (the active antiviral ingredient), resulting in decreased antiviral potency. In contrast to the cytidine-based compound R1479, the potency of an adenosine-based inhibitor of dengue virus (NITD008) was much less affected. Taken together, our results demonstrate that viral infection in patients before treatment could significantly affect the conversion of the prodrug to its active form; such an effect should be calculated when estimating the dose efficacious for humans.
Human Cytotoxic T Lymphocytes Directed to Seasonal Influenza A Viruses Cross-React with the Newly Emerging H7N9 Virus
Authors: van de Sandt Carolien E. , Kreijtz Joost H. C. M. , de Mutsert Gerrie , Geelhoed-Mieras Martina M. , Hillaire Marine L. B. , Vogelzang-van Trierum Stella E. , Osterhaus Albert D. M. E. , Fouchier Ron A. M. , Rimmelzwaan Guus F.
Published: November 2013

In February 2013, zoonotic transmission of a novel influenza A virus of the H7N9 subtype was reported in China. Although at present no sustained human-to-human transmission has been reported, a pandemic outbreak of this H7N9 virus is feared. Since neutralizing antibodies to the hemagglutinin (HA) globular head domain of the virus are virtually absent in the human population, there is interest in identifying other correlates of protection, such as cross-reactive CD8+T cells (cytotoxic T lymphocytes [CTLs]) elicited during seasonal influenza A virus infections. These virus-specific CD8+T cells are known to recognize conserved internal proteins of influenza A viruses predominantly, but it is unknown to what extent they cross-react with the newly emerging H7N9 virus. Here, we assessed the cross-reactivity of seasonal H3N2 and H1N1 and pandemic H1N1 influenza A virus-specific polyclonal CD8+T cells, obtained from HLA-typed study subjects, with the novel H7N9 virus. The cross-reactivity of CD8+T cells to H7N9 variants of known influenza A virus epitopes and H7N9 virus-infected cells was determined by their gamma interferon (IFN-γ) response and lytic activity. It was concluded that, apart from recognition of individual H7N9 variant epitopes, CD8+T cells to seasonal influenza viruses display considerable cross-reactivity with the novel H7N9 virus. The presence of these cross-reactive CD8+T cells may afford some protection against infection with the new virus.
Transient ischaemic attack: an exceptional presenting syndrome of a superior sagittal sinus thrombosis
Authors: Scuotto Assunta , D'Avanzo Raffaele , Natale Massimo , Rotondo Michele
Published: November 2013

We report a case of a transient ischaemic attack (TIA) as an exceptionally rare form of cerebral vein thrombosis. A 41-year-old man presented with a headache and five episodes of a transient left hemiparesis lasting approximately 10–15 min over the course of 2 weeks. Arterial origins of the disease were ruled out by detailed investigations. However, MR venography revealed a superior sagittal sinus thrombosis with numerous prominent collateral venous channels. No parenchymal lesion was seen. After medical therapy, no further transient neurological deficit occurred. Follow-up MR venography showed sinus recanalisation.
Deep angiomyxoma of retroperitoneum presenting as a perineal lump in a young woman
Authors: Mallick Saumyaranjan , Samantaray Satya Prasad , Durgapal Prashant , Dash Nihar
Published: November 2013

Aggressive angiomyxoma (AAM) is a rare locally aggressive neoplasm of mesenchymal origin which occurs mainly in adult women. High local recurrence rate after surgery is due to incomplete surgical excision and most of the reported cases originate in the pelvis. We present a case of massive angiomyxoma arising from the abdomen and extending into the pelvis and perineum. A 23-year-old woman presented with a swelling of the left lower abdomen with discomfort and pain for 4 years. The swelling increased in size progressively and involved the perineum. At surgery the mass was abutting the urinary bladder and rectum. On microscopy there were typical features of AAM. Our case is being reported due to the rarity of its presentation. Close follow-up is necessary as there is high chance of recurrence.
Leptin, vitamin D, and cardiorespiratory fitness as risk factors for insulin resistance in European adolescents: gender differences in the HELENA Study
Authors: Jiménez-Pavón David , Sesé María A. , Valtueña Jara , Cuenca-García Magdalena , González-Gross Marcela , Gottrand Frederic , Kafatos Anthony , Manios Yannis , Widhalm Kurt , de Henauw Stefaan , Polito Angela , Pérez-López Faustino R. , Moreno Luis A.
Published: November 2013

The purpose of this study was to identify the relevance of a set of risk factors for insulin resistance in adolescents from Europe and to consider their possible gender-specific associations. The Healthy Lifestyle in Europe by Nutrition in Adolescence Cross-Sectional Study (HELENA-CSS) was conducted in 1053 European adolescents (mean age, 14.9 years) in a school setting in 9 countries. Three anthropometric markers of body fat and a dietary index were calculated. Total energy intake was estimated from a questionnaire. C-reactive protein, leptin, and vitamin D were assessed, and physical activity, cardiorespiratory fitness, and muscular strength were measured. Center, socioeconomic status, pubertal status, and season were used as potential confounders. The main outcome was the homeostasis model assessment used as a marker of insulin resistance. Correlations, analyses of covariance, and logistic regression models were used. In males, leptin was the only risk factor for insulin resistance after adjusting for confounders including markers of body fat (odds ratios (ORs) from 1.49 to 1.60). In females, leptin, vitamin D, and fitness were the remaining independent risk factors for insulin resistance after adjustments (OR 2.11; 95% confidential interval (CI) 1.29-3.45; OR 0.50, 95% CI 0.31-0.80; and OR 0.54, 95% CI 0.33-0.87, respectively). Our observations suggest a gender dimorphism in the identification of risk factors for high insulin resistance. Preventive strategies should focus on improving modifiable factors such as cardiorespiratory fitness and on ensuring vitamin D sufficiency. Randomized controlled trials focusing on these strategies are necessary to test their efficacy.
Dietary changes and food intake in the first year after breast cancer treatment
Authors: Vance Vivienne , Campbell Sharon , McCargar Linda , Mourtzakis Marina , Hanning Rhona
Published: November 2013

Understanding dietary habits of women after breast cancer is a critical first step in developing nutrition guidelines that will support weight management and optimal health in survivorship; however, limited data are available. The objective of this study was to describe changes in diet among breast cancer survivors in the first year after treatment, and to evaluate these changes in the context of current dietary intake. Changes in diet were assessed in 28 early stage breast cancer survivors, using a self-reported survey in which women identified changes in food intake since their diagnosis. Current dietary intake was estimated from 3-day food records and described relative to current recommendations. The majority of women reported changes in diet after diagnosis, most common being an increase in vegetables/fruit and fish, lower intake of red meat, and reduced alcohol. Many women reported that these changes were initiated during active treatment. Dietary changes were largely consistent with current recommendations for cancer prevention; however, some women were still above the guidelines for total and saturated fat, and many were below recommendations for vegetables/fruit, milk/alternatives, calcium, and vitamin D. Evidence that some women are willing and able to initiate positive changes in diet early in the treatment trajectory suggests that early intervention may be effective in promoting dietary habits that will assist with weight management and overall health. Data on current dietary intake highlights several possible targets for dietary intervention in this population.
Fe-DOPED Ga12N12 CLUSTERS: ELECTRONIC AND MAGNETIC PROPERTIES
Authors: LU PENGFEI , WU CHENGJIE , CONG ZIXIANG , LI YILUAN , ZHANG XIANLONG , YU ZHONGYUAN , CAO HUAWEI
Published: November 2013

In this paper, we have investigated the structural, electronic and magnetic properties of Ga 12 N 12 cluster doped with monodoped and bidoped Fe atoms within the density functional theory (DFT). Substitutional, exohedral and endohedral doping are considered. It is observed that both monodoped and bidoped clusters tend to be in exohedral doping. Mulliken population analysis is performed to obtain the charge transfer and magnetic moment. The magnetic moment is mainly derived from 3d orbitals of Fe atom for all isomers, while the magnetic properties would rely on the Fe – Fe distance.
Well-posedness of Stratonovich multi-valued SDEs driven by semimartingales
Authors: Wu Jing
Published: November 2013

In this paper we consider Stratonovich type multi-valued stochastic differential equations (MSDEs) driven by general semimartingales. Based on an existence and uniqueness result for MSDEs with respect to continuous semimartingales, we apply the random time change and approximation technique to prove existence and uniqueness of solutions to Stratonovich type multi-valued SDEs driven by general semimartingales with summable jumps.
Effects of agonists for estrogen receptor α and β on ovariectomy-induced lower urinary tract dysfunction in the rat
Authors: Cheng Chen-Li , de Groat William C.
Published: November 2013

The postmenopausal hypoestrogen status induces various lower urinary tract dysfunctions. Ovariectomized (OVX) rats exhibit voiding abnormalities, including increased postvoiding residual urine (PVR), decreased voiding efficiency (VE), and altered coordination between the detrusor and external urethral sphincter (EUS). Estradiol replacement partially normalizes voiding function in OVX rats. We determined if selective agonists for estrogen receptor (ER)α and/or ERβ can reverse lower urinary tract dysfunction in OVX rats. Cystometry and EUS electromyograms (EMGs) were recorded 6 wk after bilateral OVX in urethane-anesthetized female Sprague-Dawley rats. Animals received daily subcutaneous injections of selective ERα [propylpyrazole triol (PPT)] or ERβ [diarylpropionitrile (DPN)] agonists or vehicle for 1 wk starting on the fifth week after OVX. PPT (1 mg·kg−1·day−1) decreased PVR, improved VE, and shortened the EUS EMG active period (AP) during voiding. DPN (2 or 5 mg·kg−1·day−1) did not alter cystometric parameters or EUS EMG activity. Combined PPT + DPN treatment elicited changes in PVR, VE, and AP, similar to those induced by PPT alone, but also increased the EUS EMG silent period and volume threshold for triggering micturition. PPT increased uterine weight fourfold and decreased body weight by 11%. DPN increased uterine weight 30–45% but decreased body weight by 3–5%. Reduced voiding efficiency in OVX rats can be reversed by 1-wk drug treatment that selectively targets ERα and reduces AP during EUS bursting. Combined pharmacological activation of ERα and ERβ further enhanced EUS bursting by increasing the EUS EMG silent period and also facilitated bladder storage mechanisms by increasing the volume threshold.
Nitric oxide-mediated modulation of the murine locomotor network
Authors: Foster Joshua D. , Dunford Catherine , Sillar Keith T. , Miles Gareth B.
Published: November 2013

Spinal motor control networks are regulated by neuromodulatory systems to allow adaptability of movements. The present study aimed to elucidate the role of nitric oxide (NO) in the modulation of mammalian spinal locomotor networks. This was investigated with isolated spinal cord preparations from neonatal mice in which rhythmic locomotor-related activity was induced pharmacologically. Bath application of the NO donor diethylamine NONOate (DEA/NO) decreased the frequency and modulated the amplitude of locomotor-related activity recorded from ventral roots. Removal of endogenous NO with coapplication of a NO scavenger (PTIO) and a nitric oxide synthase (NOS) blocker [nitro-l-arginine methyl ester (l-NAME)] increased the frequency and decreased the amplitude of locomotor-related activity. This demonstrates that endogenously derived NO can modulate both the timing and intensity of locomotor-related activity. The effects of DEA/NO were mimicked by the cGMP analog 8-bromo-cGMP. In addition, the soluble guanylyl cyclase (sGC) inhibitor ODQ blocked the effects of DEA/NO on burst amplitude and frequency, although the frequency effect was only blocked at low concentrations of DEA/NO. This suggests that NO-mediated modulation involves cGMP-dependent pathways. Sources of NO were studied within the lumbar spinal cord during postnatal development (postnatal days 1–12) with NADPH-diaphorase staining. NOS-positive cells in the ventral horn exhibited a rostrocaudal gradient, with more cells in rostral segments. The number of NOS-positive cells was also found to increase during postnatal development. In summary, we have shown that NO, derived from sources within the mammalian spinal cord, modulates the output of spinal motor networks and is therefore likely to contribute to the fine-tuning of locomotor behavior.
Electroacupuncture-Induced Neuroprotection against Cerebral Ischemia in Rats: Role of the Dopamine D2 Receptor
Authors: Xu Ming-Shu , Zhang Shu-Jing , Zhao Dan , Liu Cheng-Yong , Li Chang-Zhi , Chen Chun-Yan , Li Li-Hui , Li Ming-Zhe , Xu Jia , Ge Lin-Bao
Published: November 2013

Background. Cerebral ischemia is known to produce brain damage and related behavioural deficits, including memory deficits and motor disorders. Evidence shows that EA significantly promotes recovery of neurological function and thus improves quality of life.Objective. Evidence exists for the involvement of catecholamines in human neuroplasticity. A better understanding of dopaminergic (DAergic) modulation in this process will be important.Methods. A total of 72 adult male Sprague-Dawley (SD) rats were divided into 6 groups: normal, model, EA, spiperone group, EA + spiperone group, and pergolide. The middle cerebral artery occlusion (MCAO) model was used in all 6 groups except the normal group. A behavioural assessment was conducted at 1, 3, 5, and 7 days after MCAO. The percent of brain infarct area was also determined 7 days after MCAO. Tyrosine hydroxylase (TH) and growth-associated protein 43 (GAP-43) fluorescence double labeling was performed in the striatum.Results. In this study, we found that EA at Fengchi (GB20) acupoints resulted in marked improvements based on a behavioural assessment. Both TTC staining and GAP-43 immunofluorescence labeling results showed that EA treatment reduced ischemia injury and promoted neuroplasticity compared with the model group. The D2R-selective agonist, pergolide, showed similar results, but these results were reversed by the D2R-selective antagonist, spiperone. We also found that there were more colocalization and expression of GAP-43 and TH in the EA and pergolide groups than those in the other groups.Conclusion. These results suggest that the neuroplasticity induced by EA was mediated by D2 autoreceptors in DAergic neurons.
Bioinformatics Analysis for the Antirheumatic Effects of Huang-Lian-Jie-Du-Tang from a Network Perspective
Authors: Fang Haiyang , Wang Yichuan , Yang Tinghong , Ga Yang , Zhang Yi , Liu Runhui , Zhang Weidong , Zhao Jing
Published: November 2013

Huang-Lian-Jie-Du-Tang (HLJDT) is a classic TCM formula to clear “heat” and “poison” that exhibits antirheumatic activity. Here we investigated the therapeutic mechanisms of HLJDT at protein network level using bioinformatics approach. It was found that HLJDT shares 5 target proteins with 3 types of anti-RA drugs, and several pathways in immune system and bone formation are significantly regulated by HLJDT’s components, suggesting the therapeutic effect of HLJDT on RA. By defining an antirheumatic effect score to quantitatively measure the therapeutic effect, we found that the score of each HLJDT’s component is very low, while the whole HLJDT achieves a much higher effect score, suggesting a synergistic effect of HLJDT achieved by its multiple components acting on multiple targets. At last, topological analysis on the RA-associated PPI network was conducted to illustrate key roles of HLJDT’s target proteins on this network. Integrating our findings with TCM theory suggests that HLJDT targets on hub nodes and main pathway in the Hot ZENG network, and thus it could be applied as adjuvant treatment for Hot-ZENG-related RA. This study may facilitate our understanding of antirheumatic effect of HLJDT and it may suggest new approach for the study of TCM pharmacology.
Multiplex Immunoassays of Plant Viruses Based on Functionalized Upconversion Nanoparticles Coupled with Immunomagnetic Separation
Authors: Zhang Mingzhe , Chen Wujian , Chen Xi , Zhang Yongjiang , Lin Xiaojia , Wu Zhiyi , Li Mingfu
Published: November 2013

A sensitive, specific and rapid method for the detection of three different kinds of plant viruses including tomato ringspot virus (ToRSV), bean pod mottle virus (BPMV) and arabis mosaic virus (ArMV) was demonstrated using novel upconversion nanoparticles (UCNPs) as a fluorescence marker coupled with immunomagnetic separation. Magnetic nanoparticles (MNPs, ~100 nm) were coated with different antibodies were employed to capture and enrich the target viruses. Then antibody‐conjugated UCNPs as signal probes were added to form sandwich complexes. This was followed by a fluorescence measurement using a 980 nm laser. This method not only avoids the difficulty in simultaneous detection of multiple independent organic fluorphores that require distinct excitation wavelengths, and auto‐fluorescence of biological samples due to the higher‐energy excitation of QDs but also amplifies detection signal by UCNPs‐tags together with easy separation of samples by magnetic forces, demonstrating the potential to be used for detecting virus in the field of environmental safety and other fields.
Confidence Intervals for the Coefficient of Variation in a Normal Distribution with a Known Population Mean
Authors: Panichkitkosolkul Wararit
Published: November 2013

This paper presents three confidence intervals for the coefficient of variation in a normal distribution with a known population mean. One of the proposed confidence intervals is based on the normal approximation. The other proposed confidence intervals are the shortest-length confidence interval and the equal-tailed confidence interval. A Monte Carlo simulation study was conducted to compare the performance of the proposed confidence intervals with the existing confidence intervals. Simulation results have shown that all three proposed confidence intervals perform well in terms of coverage probability and expected length.
Heat Shock Proteins 60 and 70 Specific Proinflammatory and Cytotoxic Response of CD4+CD28nullCells in Chronic Kidney Disease
Authors: Yadav Ashok K. , Kumar Vinod , Jha Vivekanand
Published: November 2013

Background. CD4+CD28nullT cells are expanded in peripheral blood of patients with chronic kidney disease and associated with subclinical atherosclerosis. However, triggers for the oligoclonal expansion and activation of these cells are not clear.Methods. We investigated twenty-five stage V-IV chronic kidney disease (CKD) patients and eight healthy subjects (HC). Peripheral mononuclear cells were isolated and incubated with heat shock protein- (HSP) 60 and 70. CD4+CD28nulland CD4+CD28+cells were sorted by flowcytometry and antigen specific response was assessed by the mRNA and protein expression of interferon (IFN)-γ, perforin, and granzyme B using qRT-PCR and Elispot.Results. The basal mRNA expression of IFN-γ, perforin, and granzyme B in CD4+CD28nullcells was higher in subjects with CKD compared to that in HC (P<0.0001). Subjects with CKD also showed expression of IFN-γ, perforin, and granzyme B in the CD4+CD28+subset, but this was much weaker than that seen in the CD4+CD28nullpopulation (P<0.0001). We did not note the expression of these molecules at mRNA or protein level in either subset of CD4 cells in HC. After incubation with HSP60 and HSP70, CD4+CD28nullcells showed increased expression at mRNA (P<0.001) and protein level (P<0.001). CD4+CD28+cells also showed a weak increase in expression. No antigen-specific response was noted in HC.Conclusion. These data show that CD4+CD28nullcells in subjects with CKD react with HSP60 and HSP70 by upregulating the expression of IFN-γ, perforin and granzyme B. Increased circulating level of HSP60 and HSP70 might play a role in initiation and/or progression of atherosclerosis in CKD subjects through perturbation of CD4+CD28nullcells.
CD14 Gene Variants and Their Importance for Childhood Croup, Atopy, and Asthma
Authors: Rennie Donna C. , Karunanayake Chandima P. , Chen Yue , Nakagawa Kazuko , Pahwa Punam , Senthilselvan Ambikaipakan , Dosman James A.
Published: November 2013

Background. The CD14 gene has an important role in the detection of inflammatory provoking pathogens and in the ensuing signaling of the innate immune response. We assessed the role of CD14 C-159T, G-1359T in the expression of asthma, croup, and allergy in Canadian school children of ages 6 to 14 years.Methods. Children attending schools in a rural community participated in a cross-sectional survey of respiratory health. Following consent, we conducted clinical assessments to collect buccal swabs for genotyping and perform skin prick testing (SPT) to determine atopic status. Genotyping and SPT results were available for 533 and 499 children, respectively. Separate multivariable analyses that included both polymorphisms were conducted for each phenotype.Results. The prevalence of asthma, allergy, and croup was 18.6%, 22.4%, and 6.6%, respectively. Children with the T/T variant of CD14 G-1359T were more likely to have physician diagnosed asthma (26.8%). Children with C/C variant of CD14 C-159T had a significantly lower prevalence of croup (2.6%). Haplotype analyses of the two CD14 polymorphisms showed that individuals with the T|T haplotype combination were significantly more likely to have asthma (P=0.014).Conclusions. In this study, CD14 variants are important for the expression of croup and asthma but not atopy.
Rosmarinic Acid-Rich Extracts of Summer Savory (Satureja hortensisL.) Protect Jurkat T Cells against Oxidative Stress
Authors: Chkhikvishvili Irakli , Sanikidze Tamar , Gogia Nunu , Mchedlishvili Tamar , Enukidze Maia , Machavariani Marine , Vinokur Yakov , Rodov Victor
Published: November 2013

Summer savory (Satureja hortensisL.,Lamiaceae) is used in several regions of the world as a spice and folk medicine. Anti-inflammatory and cytoprotective effects ofS. hortensisand of its rosmarinic acid-rich phenolic fraction have been demonstrated in animal trials. However, previous studies of rosmarinic acid in cell models have yielded controversial results. In this study, we investigated the effects of summer savory extracts on H2O2-challenged human lymphoblastoid Jurkat T cells. LC-MS analysis confirmed the presence of rosmarinic acid and flavonoids such as hesperidin and naringin in the phenolic fraction. Adding 25 or 50 µM of H2O2to the cell culture caused oxidative stress, manifested as generation of superoxide and peroxyl radicals, reduced cell viability, G0/G1 arrest, and enhanced apoptosis. This stress was significantly alleviated by the ethanolic and aqueous extracts ofS. hortensisand by the partially purified rosmarinic acid fraction. The application of an aqueousS. hortensisextract doubled the activity of catalase and superoxide dismutase in the cells. The production of IL-2 and IL-10 interleukins was stimulated by H2O2and was further enhanced by the addition of theS. hortensisextract or rosmarinic acid fraction. The H2O2-challenged Jurkat cells may serve as a model for investigating cellular mechanisms of cytoprotective phytonutrient effects.
International Consensus Diagnostic Criteria for Autoimmune Pancreatitis and Its Japanese Amendment Have Improved Diagnostic Ability over Existing Criteria
Authors: Maruyama Masahiro , Watanabe Takayuki , Kanai Keita , Oguchi Takaya , Muraki Takashi , Hamano Hideaki , Arakura Norikazu , Kawa Shigeyuki
Published: November 2013

Objectives. The recent International Consensus Diagnostic Criteria (ICDC) for autoimmune pancreatitis (AIP) and its Japanese amendment developed by the Japanese Pancreas Society (JPS 2011) may have overcome the drawbacks of earlier criteria and achieved a higher diagnostic ability for AIP. The aim of the present study is to evaluate this possibility and identify the underlying causes of this change.Methods. We compared the diagnostic abilities of the ICDC and JPS 2011 with those of the Japanese diagnostic criteria 2006 (JPS 2006), Korean diagnostic criteria (Korean), Asian diagnostic criteria (Asian), and HISORt diagnostic criteria in 110 patients with AIP and 31 patients with malignant pancreatic cancer.Results. The ICDC achieved the highest diagnostic ability in terms of accuracy (95.0%), followed by JPS 2011 (92.9%), Korean (92.2%), HISORt (88.7%), Asian (87.2%), and JPS 2006 (85.1%). Nearly all criteria systems exhibited a high specificity of 100%, indicating that the enhanced diagnostic ability of the ICDC and JPS 2011 likely stemmed from increased sensitivity brought about by inclusion of diagnostic items requiring no endoscopic retrograde pancreatography. The diagnostic ability of JPS 2011 was nearly equivalent to that of the ICDC.Conclusions. The ICDC and JPS 2011 have improved diagnostic ability as compared with earlier criteria sets because of an increase in sensitivity.
Kinetics Study of Photocatalytic Activity of Flame-Made Unloaded and Fe-Loaded CeO2Nanoparticles
Authors: Channei D. , Inceesungvorn B. , Wetchakun N. , Phanichphant S.
Published: November 2013

Unloaded CeO2and nominal 0.50, 1.00, 1.50, 2.00, 5.00, and 10.00 mol% Fe-loaded CeO2nanoparticles were synthesized by flame spray pyrolysis (FSP). The samples were characterized to obtain structure-activity relation by X-ray diffraction (XRD), high-resolution transmission electron microscopy (HRTEM), Brunauer, Emmett, and Teller (BET) nitrogen adsorption, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), and UV-visible diffuse reflectance spectrophotometry (UV-vis DRS). XRD results indicated that phase structures of Fe-loaded CeO2nanoparticles were the mixture of CeO2and Fe2O3phases at high iron loading concentrations. HRTEM images showed the significant change in morphology from cubic to almost-spherical shape observed at high iron loading concentration. Increased specific surface area with increasing iron content was also observed. The results from UV-visible reflectance spectra clearly showed the shift of absorption edge towards longer visible region upon loading CeO2with iron. Photocatalytic studies showed that Fe-loaded CeO2sample exhibited higher activity than unloaded CeO2, with optimal 2.00 mol% of iron loading concentration being the most active catalyst. Results from XPS analysis suggested that iron in the Fe3+state might be an active species responsible for enhanced photocatalytic activities observed in this study.
Treatment of Fibromyalgia Syndrome: Recommendations of Recent Evidence-Based Interdisciplinary Guidelines with Special Emphasis on Complementary and Alternative Therapies
Authors: Ablin Jacob , Fitzcharles Mary-Ann , Buskila Dan , Shir Yoram , Sommer Claudia , Häuser Winfried
Published: November 2013

Objective.Current evidence indicates that there is no single ideal treatment for fibromyalgia syndrome (FMS). First choice treatment options remain debatable, especially concerning the importance of complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) treatments.Methods.Three evidence-based interdisciplinary guidelines on FMS in Canada, Germany, and Israel were compared for their first choice and CAM-recommendations.Results.All three guidelines emphasized a patient-tailored approach according to the key symptoms. Aerobic exercise, cognitive behavioral therapy, and multicomponent therapy were first choice treatments. The guidelines differed in the grade of recommendation for drug treatment. Anticonvulsants (gabapentin, pregabalin) and serotonin noradrenaline reuptake inhibitors (duloxetine, milnacipran) were strongly recommended by the Canadian and the Israeli guidelines. These drugs received only a weak recommendation by the German guideline. In consideration of CAM-treatments, acupuncture, hypnosis/guided imagery, and Tai Chi were recommended by the German and Israeli guidelines. The Canadian guidelines did not recommend any CAM therapy.Discussion.Recent evidence-based interdisciplinary guidelines concur on the importance of treatment tailored to the individual patient and further emphasize the need of self-management strategies (exercise, and psychological techniques).