bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Global discovery of high-NaCl-induced changes of protein phosphorylation
Authors: Wang Rong , Ferraris Joan D. , Izumi Yuichiro , Dmitrieva Natalia , Ramkissoon Kevin , Wang Guanghui , Gucek Marjan , Burg Maurice B.
Published: June 2014

High extracellular NaCl, such as in the renal medulla, can perturb and even kill cells, but cells mount protective responses that enable them to survive and function. Many high-NaCl-induced perturbations and protective responses are known, but the signaling pathways involved are less clear. Change in protein phosphorylation is a common mode of cell signaling, but there was no unbiased survey of protein phosphorylation in response to high NaCl. We used stable isotopic labeling of amino acids in cell culture coupled to mass spectrometry to identify changes in protein phosphorylation in human embryonic kidney (HEK 293) cells exposed to high NaCl. We reproducibly identify >8,000 unique phosphopeptides in 4 biological replicate samples with a 1% false discovery rate. High NaCl significantly changed phosphorylation of 253 proteins. Western analysis and targeted ion selection mass spectrometry confirm a representative sample of the phosphorylation events. We analyze the affected proteins by functional category to infer how altered protein phosphorylation might signal cellular responses to high NaCl, including alteration of cell cycle, cyto/nucleoskeletal organization, DNA double-strand breaks, transcription, proteostasis, metabolism of mRNA, and cell death.
Differential effect of T-type voltage-gated Ca2+ channel disruption on renal plasma flow and glomerular filtration rate in vivo
Authors: Thuesen Anne D. , Andersen Henrik , Cardel Majken , Toft Anja , Walter Steen , Marcussen Niels , Jensen Boye L. , Bie Peter , Hansen Pernille B. L.
Published: June 2014

Voltage-gated Ca2+ (Cav) channels play an essential role in the regulation of renal blood flow and glomerular filtration rate (GFR). Because T-type Cav channels are differentially expressed in pre- and postglomerular vessels, it was hypothesized that they impact renal blood flow and GFR differentially. The question was addressed with the use of two T-type Cav knockout (Cav3.1−/− and Cav3.2−/−) mouse strains. Continuous recordings of blood pressure and heart rate, para-aminohippurate clearance (renal plasma flow), and inulin clearance (GFR) were performed in conscious, chronically catheterized, wild-type (WT) and Cav3.1−/− and Cav3.2−/− mice. The contractility of afferent and efferent arterioles was determined in isolated perfused blood vessels. Efferent arterioles from Cav3.2−/− mice constricted significantly more in response to a depolarization compared with WT mice. GFR was increased in Cav3.2−/− mice with no significant changes in renal plasma flow, heart rate, and blood pressure. Cav3.1−/− mice had a higher renal plasma flow compared with WT mice, whereas GFR was indistinguishable from WT mice. No difference in the concentration response to K+ was observed in isolated afferent and efferent arterioles from Cav3.1−/− mice compared with WT mice. Heart rate was significantly lower in Cav3.1−/− mice compared with WT mice with no difference in blood pressure. T-type antagonists significantly inhibited the constriction of human intrarenal arteries in response to a small depolarization. In conclusion, Cav3.2 channels support dilatation of efferent arterioles and affect GFR, whereas Cav3.1 channels in vivo contribute to renal vascular resistance. It is suggested that endothelial and nerve localization of Cav3.2 and Cav3.1, respectively, may account for the observed effects.
Aldosterone sensitizes connecting tubule glomerular feedback via the aldosterone receptor GPR30
Authors: Ren YiLin , D'Ambrosio Martin A. , Garvin Jeffrey L. , Leung Pablo , Kutskill Kristopher , Wang Hong , Peterson Edward L. , Carretero Oscar A.
Published: June 2014

Increasing Na delivery to epithelial Na channels (ENaC) in the connecting tubule (CNT) dilates the afferent arteriole (Af-Art), a process we call connecting tubule glomerular feedback (CTGF). We hypothesize that aldosterone sensitizes CTGF via a nongenomic mechanism that stimulates CNT ENaC via the aldosterone receptor GPR30. Rabbit Af-Arts and their adherent CNTs were microdissected and simultaneously perfused. Two consecutive CTGF curves were elicited by increasing luminal NaCl in the CNT. During the control period, the concentration of NaCl that elicited a half-maximal response (EC50) was 37.0 ± 2.0 mmol/l; addition of aldosterone 10−8 mol/l to the CNT lumen caused a left-shift (decrease) in EC50 to 19.3 ± 1.3 mmol/l ( P = 0.001 vs. control; n = 6). Neither the transcription inhibitor actinomycin D nor the translation inhibitor cycloheximide prevented the effect of aldosterone (control EC50 = 34.7 ± 1.9 mmol/l; aldosterone+actinomycin D EC50 = 22.6 ± 1.6 mmol/l; P < 0.001 and control EC50 = 32.4 ± 4.3 mmol/l; aldosterone+cycloheximide EC50 = 17.4 ± 3.3 mmol/l; P < 0.001). The aldosterone antagonist eplerenone prevented the sensitization of CTGF by aldosterone (control EC50 = 33.2 ± 1.7 mmol/l; aldosterone+eplerenone EC50 = 33.5 ± 1.3 mmol/l; n = 7). The GPR30 receptor blocker G-36 blocked the sensitization of CTGF by aldosterone (aldosterone EC50 = 16.5 ± 1.9 mmol/l; aldosterone+G-36 EC50 = 29.0 ± 2.1 mmol/l; n = 7; P < 0.001). Finally, we found that the sensitization of CTGF by aldosterone was mediated, at least in part, by the sodium/hydrogen exchanger (NHE). We conclude that aldosterone in the CNT lumen sensitizes CTGF via a nongenomic effect involving GPR30 receptors and NHE. Sensitized CTGF induced by aldosterone may contribute to renal damage by increasing Af-Art dilation and glomerular capillary pressure (glomerular barotrauma).
TRPV4 activation mediates flow-induced nitric oxide production in the rat thick ascending limb
Authors: Cabral Pablo D. , Garvin Jeffrey L.
Published: June 2014

Nitric oxide (NO) regulates renal function. Luminal flow stimulates NO production in the thick ascending limb (TAL). Transient receptor potential vanilloid 4 (TRPV4) is a mechano-sensitive channel activated by luminal flow in different types of cells. We hypothesized that TRPV4 mediates flow-induced NO production in the rat TAL. We measured NO production in isolated, perfused rat TALs using the fluorescent dye DAF FM. Increasing luminal flow from 0 to 20 nl/min stimulated NO from 8 ± 3 to 45 ± 12 arbitrary units (AU)/min ( n = 5; P < 0.05). The TRPV4 antagonists, ruthenium red (15 μmol/l) and RN 1734 (10 μmol/l), blocked flow-induced NO production. Also, luminal flow did not increase NO production in the absence of extracellular calcium. We also studied the effect of luminal flow on NO production in TALs transduced with a TRPV4shRNA. In nontransduced TALs luminal flow increased NO production by 47 ± 17 AU/min ( P < 0.05; n = 5). Similar to nontransduced TALs, luminal flow increased NO production by 39 ± 11 AU/min ( P < 0.03; n = 5) in TALs transduced with a control negative sequence-shRNA while in TRPV4shRNA-transduced TALs, luminal flow did not increase NO production (Δ10 ± 15 AU/min; n = 5). We then tested the effect of two different TRPV4 agonists on NO production in the absence of luminal flow. 4α-Phorbol 12,13-didecanoate (1 μmol/l) enhanced NO production by 60 ± 11 AU/min ( P < 0.002; n = 7) and GSK1016790A (10 ηmol/l) increased NO production by 52 ± 15 AU/min ( P < 0.03; n = 5). GSK1016790A (10 ηmol/l) did not stimulate NO production in TRPV4shRNA-transduced TALs. We conclude that activation of TRPV4 channels mediates flow-induced NO production in the rat TAL.
Occipitoparietal alpha-band responses to the graded allocation of top-down spatial attention
Authors: Dombrowe Isabel , Hilgetag Claus C.
Published: June 2014

The voluntary, top-down allocation of visual spatial attention has been linked to changes in the alpha-band of the electroencephalogram (EEG) signal measured over occipital and parietal lobes. In the present study, we investigated how occipitoparietal alpha-band activity changes when people allocate their attentional resources in a graded fashion across the visual field. We asked participants to either completely shift their attention into one hemifield, to balance their attention equally across the entire visual field, or to attribute more attention to one-half of the visual field than to the other. As expected, we found that alpha-band amplitudes decreased stronger contralaterally than ipsilaterally to the attended side when attention was shifted completely. Alpha-band amplitudes decreased bilaterally when attention was balanced equally across the visual field. However, when participants allocated more attentional resources to one-half of the visual field, this was not reflected in the alpha-band amplitudes, which just decreased bilaterally. We found that the performance of the participants was more strongly reflected in the coherence between frontal and occipitoparietal brain regions. We conclude that low alpha-band amplitudes seem to be necessary for stimulus detection. Furthermore, complete shifts of attention are directly reflected in the lateralization of alpha-band amplitudes. In the present study, a gradual allocation of visual attention across the visual field was only indirectly reflected in the alpha-band activity over occipital and parietal cortexes.
Assessment of flow distribution in the mouse fetal circulation at late gestation by high-frequency Doppler ultrasound
Authors: Zhou Yu-Qing , Cahill Lindsay S. , Wong Michael D. , Seed Mike , Macgowan Christopher K. , Sled John G.
Published: June 2014

This study used high-frequency ultrasound to evaluate the flow distribution in the mouse fetal circulation at late gestation. We studied 12 fetuses (embryonic day 17.5) from 12 pregnant CD1 mice with 40 MHz ultrasound to assess the flow in 11 vessels based on Doppler measurements of blood velocity and M-mode measurements of diameter. Specifically, the intrahepatic umbilical vein (UVIH), ductus venosus (DV), foramen ovale (FO), ascending aorta (AA), main pulmonary artery (MPA), ductus arteriosus (DA), descending thoracic aorta (DTA), common carotid artery (CCA), inferior vena cava (IVC), and right and left superior vena cavae (RSVC, LSVC) were examined, and anatomically confirmed by micro-CT. The mouse fetal circulatory system was found to be similar to that of the humans in terms of the major circuit and three shunts, but characterized by bilateral superior vena cavae and a single umbilical artery. The combined cardiac output (CCO) was 1.22 ± 0.05 ml/min, with the left ventricle (flow in AA) contributing 47.8 ± 2.3% and the right ventricle (flow in MPA) 52.2 ± 2.3%. Relative to the CCO, the flow percentages were 13.6 ± 1.0% for the UVIH, 10.4 ± 1.1% for the DV, 35.6 ± 2.4% for the DA, 41.9 ± 2.6% for the DTA, 3.8 ± 0.3% for the CCA, 29.5 ± 2.2% for the IVC, 12.7 ± 1.0% for the RSVC, and 9.9 ± 0.9% for the LSVC. The calculated flow percentage was 16.6 ± 3.4% for the pulmonary circulation and 31.2 ± 5.3% for the FO. In conclusion, the flow in mouse fetal circulation can be comprehensively evaluated with ultrasound. The baseline data of the flow distribution in normal mouse fetus serve as the reference range for future studies.
The unexpectedly low sensitivity of the nitrogen NMR shieldings of covalent azides to solvent effects
Authors: Witanowski M. , Sicinska W. , Webb G. A.
Published: June 2014

The nitrogen shieldings of covalent azides are shown to be essentially independent of molecular interactions in solutions of a large variety of solvents. They present a rare case where substituent effects, exerted by an aryl or alkyl group attached to the azide, clearly swpass the range of solvent induced effects on the nitrogen shieldings. This occurs in spite of the large net change splitting in the electronic structure of the azide group and the presence of lone pair electrons on this group. The observed induced range of solvent effects does not exceed 2 ppm in most cases which is similar to that previously observed for dinitrogen (N2) and an azo bridged structure.
Further Nuclear Magnetic Resonance Studies of Flavone
Authors: García-Martínez Cirilo , Morales-Rios Martha S. , Joseph-Nathan Pedro
Published: June 2014

The incorporation of 92.7% of 13C at the carbonyl group of flavone allowed to measure two‐ and three‐bond carbon‐carbon coupling constants which range from 1.4 to 3.5 Hz, and to measure two‐, three‐ and four‐bond carbon‐hydrogen coupling constants which range from 0.3 to 3.8 Hz. A mixture of unlabelled flavone 1 with its 4‐13C labelled analogue 2 further allowed to measure one‐bond induced isotope shifts of ‐15.5 and ‐16.2 ppb for C‐3 and C‐4a, respectively, and a three bond induced isotope shift of +3.7 ppb for C‐I′.
Triterpene glycosides from transformed root cultures of Astragalus mongholicus BGE
Authors: Tappe R. , Budzikiewicz H. , Ionkova I. , Alfermann A. W.
Published: June 2014

Transfonned root cultures of Astragalus mongholicus Bge. have been established by infecting of sterile grown plants with AgrobacterilDfl rhizogenes strains LBA 9402 and ATCC 15834. A promoting effect of acetyl syringone on the Agrobacteriwn‐mediated hairy root (HR) initiation was obselVed. The transfonned root clones were assayed for opines by electrophoresis and 1LC. All of them were positive for agropine/mannopine. It was shown, that Astragalus‐hairy roots (HR) of the transfonned cultures produce the same kind of saponins in considerable amounts as those of intact plants. The triterpene saponins have been isolated from the methanol extract of the HR and identified as cycloartane derived saponins. On the basis of analytical data obtained by mass spectrometry (NI‐F AB‐MS, EI‐MS), and homo‐ and heteronuclear NMR experiments (DEPT, DQF‐COSY, HOHAHA, ROESY, HMQC, HMBC), the structures of three triterpenoid glycosides were determined as astragaloside I, IT, ill [1,2]. A complete assignment of the IH_ and 13C‐NMR data is given.

Erratum to “Triterpene Glycosides from Transformed Root Cultures of Astragalus Mongholicus BGE”dx.doi.org/10.1155/1994/482165
Electron impact mass spectrometry of N‐(2‐methylpropyl)‐3‐(o‐, m‐ and p‐R‐phenyl)‐2‐propenamidesl
Authors: Martinez Roberto , Velasco Luis , Reyes T. Lino , Pozas H. Rocio , Carballo P. Javier A. , Melchor M. Patricia
Published: June 2014

The major features of the mass spectra of eleven substituted 3‐phenyl‐2‐propenamides of potential phannacologica1 interest are reported.
Applications D′Intelligence Artificielle Dans La Chimie Organique. XVII. Nouveaux Programmes Du Projet SISTEMAT
Authors: Emerenciano Vincente de Paulo , Rodrigues Gilberto do V. , Macari Patricia A. T. , Vesti Sandra A. , Borges Joao H. G. , Gastmans J. P. , Fromanteau Denise L. G.
Published: June 2014

This work describes the new improvements of the SISlEMAT project, one system for structural elucidation mainly in the field of Natural Products Chemistry. Some examples of the resolution of problems using 13C Nuclear Magnetic Resonance and Mass Spectroscopy are given. Programs to discover new heuristic rules for structure generation are discussed. The data base contains about 1000 13C NMR spectra.
Characteristic coupling constants 1J(13C-13C) of some mesoionic methylides contaIning a diphenyltetrazolium ring
Authors: Jazwinski Jaroslaw , Kozminski Wtktor , stefaniak Lech , Webl Graham A.
Published: June 2014

1J(13C-13C) data are presented for some Types A and B tetrazoliwn methylides. The results show a large amoWlt of double bond character for the C5‐C6 bond which is significantly reduced upon protonation. A similar decrease in bond order is noted for the C6‐C8 bond following protonation.
Analysis of the Core Oligosaccharide of Aeromonas hydrophila (Chemotype III) Lipopolysaccharide Using Fast Atom Bombardment, Electrospray and Low Energy Tandem Mass Spectrometry
Authors: Banoub Joseph , Gentip Emmanuel , Shaw Derek H.
Published: June 2014

Fast‐atom bombardment mass spectrometry (FAB‐MS) was employed for the structural analysis of the core oligosaccharide of Aeromonas hydrophila (Chemotype III) lipopolysaccharide. Positive ion FAB‐MS of the underivatized core oligosaccharide gave the protonated molecular ion, confrrming the correct composition in terms of hexoses, heptoses and Kdo which was present as a bicyclic furanosidic lactone. Negative ion FAB‐MS gave the deprotonated molecular ion and fragment ions which were derived from more than two cleavage events with charge retention at the reducing and non‐reducing terminals. Positive ion F AB‐MS of the permethylated core oligosaccharide afforded fragment ions consistent with the defined sequence and branching patterns of the sugar constituents. The electrospray mass spectrum (ESMS) in the positive ion mode of the underivatized core oligosaccharide afforded the protonated molecular ion in the singly and doubly charged forms. Low energy collision‐activated dissociation tandem mass spectrometry (CAD MS/MS) analysis of the protonated molecular ion [M+2H]+2 provided additional structural data. ESMS of the permethylated and N‐acetylated permethylated core oligosaccharides provided useful structural indices and afforded a characteristic pattern for fragmentions resulting from the opening of the methylated bicyclic Kdo furanosidic 1,7‐ lactone, which was similar to that obtained in the corresponding FAB‐MS.
Electrospray Tandem Mass Spectrometry of 3′‐azido‐2′,3′dideoxythymidine and of a Novel Series of 3′‐azido‐2′,3′,4′‐trideoxy‐4′thio‐5‐halogenouridines and their Respective α‐Anomers
Authors: Banoub Joseph , Gentil Emmanuel , Tber Bougrine , Fahmi Nour-Eddine , Ronco Gino , Villa Pierre , Mackenzie Grahame
Published: June 2014

Electrospray mass spectrometry has aided the structural characterization of 3′‐azido‐2′,3′‐dideoxythymidine (AZI) and the novel series of 3′‐azido‐2′,3′,4′trideoxy‐4′‐thio‐S‐(bromo, chi oro or fluoro )uridine nucleosides and their respective α.anomers. Low energy CAD MS/MS analysis of the protonated molecules [M+H]+ confmned the predicted fragmentation route for AZT and a series of related 4′‐thio‐S‐halogenouridines. This MSIMS study also provided characteristic fingerprint patterns which permitted differentiation of anomers within the series of 3′‐azido‐2′ ,3′ ,4′ ‐trideoxy‐4′ ‐thio‐S‐halogenouridine nucleosides.
Electron impact mass spectrometry of some 1‐ and 2‐benzimidazole derivatives
Authors: Hida F. , Robert J. , Luu-Duc C.
Published: June 2014

In the present investigation, a study of the electron‐impact mass spectrometry data is reported for fifteen compounds of a series of 1‐ and 2‐benzimidazole derivatives previously synthesized. Possible fragmentation routes of this class of compounds under electron‐impact are outlined.
Electrospray Tandem Mass Spectrometry of Ecdysteroid Moulting Hormones
Authors: Hellou Jocelyne , Banoub Joseph , Gentil Emmanuel , Taylor Dave M. , O’Keefe Paul G.
Published: June 2014

Electrospray mass spectrometIy has aided the structural characterization of ecdysteroid moulting hormones as a means of understanding factors controlling the moulting cycle in crabs. Possible fragmentation routes were frrst obtained by controlled collision‐activated dissociation (CAD) initiated by cone voltage fragmentation. Low energy CAD MSIMS analyses of the protonated molecules [M+H]+ confrrmed the characteristic fmgerprint patterns obtained by cone voltage fragmentation. MSIMS analyses of selected intermediate fragments provided additional structural data and established the fragmentation routes.
Bilateral Hegu Acupoints Have the Same Effect on the Heart Rate Variability of the Healthy Subjects
Authors: Guangjun Wang , Yuying Tian , Shuyong Jia , Wenting Zhou , Weibo Zhang
Published: June 2014

Background. The specificity of acupuncture points (acupoints) is one of the key concepts in traditional acupuncture theory, but the question of whether there is adequate scientific evidence to prove or disprove specificity has been vigorously debated in recent years. Acupoint laterality is an important aspect of acupoint specificity. Data is particularly scarce regarding the laterality of the same channel, namesake acupoint located on opposite sides of the body. Our previous study results suggest that Neiguan acupoint (PC6) has the laterality. The aim of this study was to investigate whether Hegu (LI4) also has laterality from the perspective of heart rate variability. Methods. A total of twenty‐eight healthy female volunteers were recruited for this study and were randomly separated into the group I (n = 14) and the group II (n = 14) according to the register order. In the group I, left LI4 was stimulated in the first epoch and the right LI4 was stimulated in the second epoch. In the group II, right LI4 was stimulated in the first epoch and left LI4 was stimulated in the second epoch. Electrocardiogram was recorded and heart rate variability was analyzed. Results. The results show that there were no significant differences of heart rate variablity between the group I and the group II in the time domain and in the frequency domain. Conclusions. Bilateral Hegu acupoints have the same effect on the heart rate variability of the healthy subjects.
The Responses of the Quantitative Characteristics of a Ramet Population of the Ephemeroid Rhizomatous SedgeCarex physodesto the Moisture Content of the Soil in Various Locations on Sand Dunes
Authors: Abudureheman Buhailiqiemu , Liu Huiliang , Zhang Daoyuan , Guan Kaiyun , Zhang Yongkuan
Published: June 2014

In this study, the soil moisture content was measured, and the quantitative characteristics of this sedge species were compared. The phenotypic plasticity of each parameter and the linear regression relationships were analyzed. The results showed that the soil moisture content was significantly affected by location, soil depth, and sampling date. The aboveground biomass, underground biomass, biomass density, and population density at the peak were significantly higher than elsewhere on the dune. However, the morphological plasticity index of the quantitative characteristics was higher at the base and middle of the dune. When the soil moisture content decreased, the underground biomass and ramet biomass density increased. The aboveground and underground biomasses were strongly negatively correlated, but the ramet height and aboveground biomass were strongly positively correlated. These results indicated that the soil water content significantly affected the clonal growth ofC. physodes. The responsiveness ofC. physodesmay be adaptive when the soil resource supply is low. The strong morphological plasticity of the species appears to be ecologically important for the maintenance and dominance of this species in the dune habitat.
Evaluation of Skin Permeation and Analgesic Activity Effects of Carbopol Lornoxicam Topical Gels Containing Penetration Enhancer
Authors: Al-Suwayeh Saleh A. , Taha Ehab I. , Al-Qahtani Fahad M. , Ahmed Mahrous O. , Badran Mohamed M.
Published: June 2014

The current study was designed to develop a topical gel formulation for improved skin penetration of lornoxicam (LOR) for enhancement of its analgesic activity. Moreover, the effect of different penetration enhancers on LOR was studied. The LOR gel formulations were prepared by using hydroxylpropyl methylcellulose (HPMC) and carbopol. The carbopol gels in presence of propylene glycol (PG) and ethanol were developed. The formulated gels were characterized for pH, viscosity, and LOR release using Franz diffusion cells. Also,in vitroskin permeation of LOR was conducted. The effect of hydroxypropylβ-cyclodextrin (HPβ-CD), beta-cyclodextrin (β-CD), Tween 80, and oleic acid on LOR permeation was evaluated. The optimized LOR gel formulation (LORF8) showed the highest flux (14.31 μg/cm2/h) with ER of 18.34 when compared to LORF3. Incorporation of PG and HPβ-CD in gel formulation (LORF8) enhanced the permeation of LOR significantly. It was observed that LORF3 and LORF8 show similar analgesic activity compared to marketed LOR injection (Xefo). This work shows that LOR can be formulated into carbopol gel in presence of PG and HPβ-CD and may be promising in enhancing permeation.
Patent Foramen Ovale and Closure Technique with the Amplatzer Occluder
Authors: Meier Bernhard
Published: June 2014

Proof that percutaneous closure of the patent foramen ovale (PFO) is superior to medical treatment is still incomplete. Paradoxical embolism is a rare event occurring over decades rather than years. None of the 4 randomized trials published carried enough patients or was followed up for long enough to reach superiority endpoints. All data, however, point to a benefit of PFO closure. Free wall erosion (exceedingly rare) and triggering of atrial fibrillation (in about 1% of patients) are the only noteworthy complications. They are outweighed by the supposedly prevented events of paradoxical embolisms, such as stroke, transient ischemic attacks, myocardial infarctions, or other systemic embolisms. Medical treatment with perhaps the exception of lifelong oral anticoagulation provides less protection. During a 10-year follow-up of a comparative study the annual mortality was significantly lower in the patients with PFO closure (0.4%) than in those with medical treatment (1.1%,P<0.03). PFO closure can be accomplished in less than 1 hour with immediate resumption of physical activity. It represents thus a kind of mechanical vaccination.
Neighbor Constraint Assisted Distributed Localization for Wireless Sensor Networks
Authors: Wen Longfei , Cui Lingguo , Chai Senchun , Zhang Baihai
Published: June 2014

Localization is one of the most significant technologies in wireless sensor networks (WSNs) since it plays a critical role in many applications. The main idea in most localization methods is to estimate the sensor‐anchor distances that are used by sensors to locate themselves. However, the distance information is always imprecise due to the measurement or estimation errors. In this work, a novel algorithm called neighbor constraint assisted distributed localization (NCA‐DL) is proposed, which introduces the application of geometric constraints to these distances within the algorithm. For example, in the case presented here, the assistance provided by a neighbor will consist in formulating a linear equality constraint. These constraints can be further used to formulate optimization problems for distance estimation. Then through some optimization methods, the imprecise distances can be refined and the localization precision is improved.
Dietary Lycium barbarum Polysaccharide Induces Nrf2/ARE Pathway and Ameliorates Insulin Resistance Induced by High-Fat via Activation of PI3K/AKT Signaling
Authors: Yang Yi , Li Wang , Li Yan , Wang Qing , Gao Ling , Zhao Jiajun
Published: June 2014

Lycium barbarum polysaccharide (LBP), an antioxidant from wolfberry, displays the antioxidative and anti-inflammatory effects on experimental models of insulin resistance in vivo. However, the effective mechanism of LBP on high-fat diet-induced insulin resistance is still unknown. The objective of the study was to investigate the mechanism involved in LBP-mediated phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI3K)/AKT/Nrf2 axis against high-fat-induced insulin resistance. HepG2 cells were incubated with LBP for 12 hrs in the presence of palmitate. C57BL/6J mice were fed a high-fat diet supplemented with LBP for 24 weeks. We analyzed the expression of nuclear factor-E2-related factor 2 (Nrf2), Jun N-terminal kinases (JNK), and glycogen synthase kinase 3β (GSK3β) involved in insulin signaling pathway in vivo and in vitro. First, LBP significantly induced phosphorylation of Nrf2 through PI3K/AKT signaling. Second, LBP obviously increased detoxification and antioxidant enzymes expression and reduced reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels via PI3K/AKT/Nrf2 axis. Third, LBP also regulated phosphorylation levels of GSK3β and JNK through PI3K/AKT signaling. Finally, LBP significantly reversed glycolytic and gluconeogenic genes expression via the activation of Nrf2-mediated cytoprotective effects. In summary, LBP is novel antioxidant against insulin resistance induced by high-fat diet via activation of PI3K/AKT/Nrf2 pathway.
Diffusion Imaging of Auditory and Auditory-Limbic Connectivity in Tinnitus: Preliminary Evidence and Methodological Challenges
Authors: Seydell-Greenwald Anna , Raven Erika P. , Leaver Amber M. , Turesky Ted K. , Rauschecker Josef P.
Published: June 2014

Subjective tinnitus, or “ringing in the ears,” is perceived by 10 to 15 percent of the adult population and causes significant suffering in a subset of patients. While it was originally thought of as a purely auditory phenomenon, there is increasing evidence that the limbic system influences whether and how tinnitus is perceived, far beyond merely determining the patient’s emotional reaction to the phantom sound. Based on functional imaging and electrophysiological data, recent articles frame tinnitus as a “network problem” arising from abnormalities in auditory-limbic interactions. Diffusion-weighted magnetic resonance imaging is a noninvasive method for investigating anatomical connections in vivo. It thus has the potential to provide anatomical evidence for the proposed changes in auditory-limbic connectivity. However, the few diffusion imaging studies of tinnitus performed to date have inconsistent results. In the present paper, we briefly summarize the results of previous studies, aiming to reconcile their results. After detailing analysis methods, we then report findings from a new dataset. We conclude that while there is some evidence for tinnitus-related increases in auditory and auditory-limbic connectivity that counteract hearing-loss related decreases in auditory connectivity, these results should be considered preliminary until several technical challenges have been overcome.
Controllable Fabrication of Ordered Mesoporous Bi2WO6and Its High Photocatalytic Activity under Visible Light
Authors: Dang Xueming , Dong Xiaoli , Wang Hua , Zhang Xiufang , Ma Hongchao , Xue Mang
Published: June 2014

Ordered mesoporous Bi2WO6was fabricated by nanocasting technique using SBA-15 as the template. The effect of the dosage of SBA-15 on the formation of the ordered structure and the photocatalytic ability of mesoporous Bi2WO6was discussed. It was confirmed that the ordered mesoporous structure was obtained as the dosage of SBA-15 was 0.3 g. It was found that, compared to Bi2WO6, the RhB degradation rate with ordered mesoporous Bi2WO6was enhanced under visible light (λ>400 nm) by the photocatalytic measurements. The enhanced photocatalytic performance of ordered mesoporous Bi2WO6was attributed to its particular ordered mesoporous structure which could increase the light-harvesting efficiency, reduce the recombination of the photogenerated charge carriers, and promote the surface reaction.
Extended Genetic Diversity of Bovine Viral Diarrhea Virus and Frequency of Genotypes and Subtypes in Cattle in Italy between 1995 and 2013
Authors: Luzzago Camilla , Lauzi Stefania , Ebranati Erika , Giammarioli Monica , Moreno Ana , Cannella Vincenza , Masoero Loretta , Canelli Elena , Guercio Annalisa , Caruso Claudio , Ciccozzi Massimo , De Mia Gian Mario , Acutis Pier Luigi , Zehender Gianguglielmo , Peletto Simone
Published: June 2014

Genetic typing of bovine viral diarrhea virus (BVDV) has distinguished BVDV-1 and BVDV-2 species and an emerging putative third species (HoBi-like virus), recently detected in southern Italy, signaling the occurrence of natural infection in Europe. Recognizing the need to update the data on BVDV genetic variability in Italy for mounting local and European alerts, a wide collection of5′UTR sequences (n= 371) was selected to identify the frequency of genotypes and subtypes at the herd level. BVDV-1 had the highest frequency, followed by sporadic BVDV-2. No novel HoBi-like viruses were identified. Four distribution patterns of BVDV-1 subtypes were observed: highly prevalent subtypes with a wide temporal-spatial distribution (1b and 1e), low prevalent subtypes with a widespread geographic distribution (1a, 1d, 1g, 1h, and 1k) or a restricted geographic distribution (1f), and sporadic subtypes detected only in single herds (1c, 1j, and 1l). BVDV-1c, k, and l are reported for the first time in Italy. A unique genetic variant was detected in the majority of herds, but cocirculation of genetic variants was also observed. Northern Italy ranked first for BVDV introduction, prevalence, and dispersion. Nevertheless, the presence of sporadic variants in other restricted areas suggests the risk of different routes of BVDV introduction.
Firefly Optimization and Mathematical Modeling of a Vehicle Crash Test Based on Single-Mass
Authors: Klausen Andreas , Tørdal Sondre Sanden , Karimi Hamid Reza , Robbersmyr Kjell G. , Jecmenica Mladen , Melteig Ole
Published: June 2014

In this paper mathematical modeling of a vehicle crash test based on a single-mass is studied. The model under consideration consists of a single-mass coupled with a spring and/or a damper. The parameters for the spring and damper are obtained by analyzing the measured acceleration in the center of gravity of the vehicle during a crash. A model with a nonlinear spring and damper is also proposed and the parameters will be optimized with different damper and spring characteristics and optimization algorithms. The optimization algorithms used are interior-point and firefly algorithm. The objective of this paper is to compare different methods used to establish a simple model of a car crash and validate the results against real crash data.
Study on the Gelation of Foamed Gel for Preventing the Spontaneous Combustion of Coal
Authors: Zhang Leilin , Qin Botao
Published: June 2014

According to the existing deficiencies in fire prevention technology, a new technique named foamed gel is developed to prevent coal mine fire efficiently. Foamed gel, formed by adding the type F3 foam agent, polymer H, and AL into water, introducing nitrogen and stirring physically and mechanically, is a complex multicomponent foam system. The effects of the mass fraction and mixed ratios of polymer H and polymer AL blends on gelation were comprehensively studied. The results show that the optimum performance can be got when the mass fraction of blends was 0.6% and the mixed ratio was 5 : 5. In addition, the interaction between molecules of these polymer blends was also investigated with the help of atomic force microscope. It can be found that the polymers H and AL, through having crosslinking reaction with each other, formed three-dimensional network structures, which can not only increase the nodes of the foamed gel system but also enhance the structures.
On Some New Hermite-Hadamard Type Inequalities fors-Geometrically Convex Functions
Authors: İşcan İmdat
Published: June 2014

Some new integral inequalities of Hermite-Hadamard type related to thes-geometrically convex functions are established and some applications to special means of positive real numbers are also given.
Magnitude and Reasons for Harmful Traditional Practices among Children Less Than 5 Years of Age in Axum Town, North Ethiopia, 2013
Authors: Gebrekirstos Kahsu , Fantahun Atsede , Buruh Gerezgiher
Published: June 2014

Background.In addition to beneficial traditional practices, there are around 140 harmful traditional practices affecting mothers and children in almost all ethnic groups of Ethiopia. Therefore this study might give a clue about their practice and associated factors. The objective of this study was to assess magnitude of harmful traditional practices among children less than 5 years of age in Axum Town, North Ethiopia.Methods.Community based cross-sectional study was conducted on 752 participants who were selected using multistage sampling. Simple random sampling method was used to select ketenas from all kebelles of Axum Town. After proportional allocation of sample size to eachketena, systematic random sampling method was used to get the study participants. Data was collected using interviewer administered questionnaire; it was entered and analyzed using SPSS version 16 and descriptive statistics was calculated.Results.Majority of the respondents (81.2%) were Orthodox, 78.2% of the mothers had no work, and majority of mothers had no formal education. Among the harmful traditional practices performed on children, uvula cutting alone was performed on 72.8% of children followed by milk teeth extraction and uvula cutting with eyebrow incision.Conclusion.The leading harmful traditional practice performed on children in this study was uvula cutting.
Use of Ultrasound to Diagnose and Manage a Five-Liter Empyema in a Rural Clinic in Sierra Leone
Authors: Rotte Masashi , Fields Jason Matthew , Torres Sergio , Dominick Christa , Kelly J. Daniel
Published: June 2014

We report the case of a dyspneic patient with a five-liter pleural empyema that was diagnosed and managed in a resource-limited clinic in a rural part of Sierra Leone. The diagnosis and management of this condition are usually guided by imaging modalities such as X-rays or CT scans. However, these resources may not be available in austere settings in developing countries. Because emergency physicians work in a variety of clinical settings, they should be well versed in the use of portable ultrasound machines to diagnose, treat, and manage many different conditions.
A Study on Decoding Models for the Reconstruction of Hand Trajectories from the Human Magnetoencephalography
Authors: Yeom Hong Gi , Hong Wonjun , Kang Da-Yoon , Chung Chun Kee , Kim June Sic , Kim Sung-Phil
Published: June 2014

Decoding neural signals into control outputs has been a key to the development of brain-computer interfaces (BCIs). While many studies have identified neural correlates of kinematics or applied advanced machine learning algorithms to improve decoding performance, relatively less attention has been paid to optimal design of decoding models. For generating continuous movements from neural activity, design of decoding models should address how to incorporate movement dynamics into models and how to select a model given specific BCI objectives. Considering nonlinear and independent speed characteristics, we propose a hybrid Kalman filter to decode the hand direction and speed independently. We also investigate changes in performance of different decoding models (the linear and Kalman filters) when they predict reaching movements only or predict both reach and rest. Our offline study on human magnetoencephalography (MEG) during point-to-point arm movements shows that the performance of the linear filter or the Kalman filter is affected by including resting states for training and predicting movements. However, the hybrid Kalman filter consistently outperforms others regardless of movement states. The results demonstrate that better design of decoding models is achieved by incorporating movement dynamics into modeling or selecting a model according to decoding objectives.
Characterization of Pulmonary Vein Dimensions Using High-Definition 64-Slice Computed Tomography prior to Radiofrequency Catheter Ablation for Atrial Fibrillation
Authors: Gebhard Catherine , Krasniqi Nazmi , Stähli Barbara E. , Klaeser Bernd , Fuchs Tobias A. , Ghadri Jelena R. , Haegeli Laurent , Lüscher Thomas F. , Kaufmann Philipp A. , Duru Firat
Published: June 2014

Background. Contrast-enhanced computed tomography is commonly acquired before radiofrequency catheter ablation (RFCA) for atrial fibrillation (AFib) to guide the procedure. We analyzed pulmonary vein (PV) ostial diameter and volumes on a high-definition 64-slice CT (HDCT) scanner in patients with AFib prior to RFCA.Methods and Results. This retrospective study included 50 patients (mean age 60.2 ± 11.4 years, 30 males) undergoing cardiac HDCT scanning before RFCA for drug refractory AFib and 50 age-, BMI-, and sex-matched controls with normal sinus rhythm undergoing HDCT. PV ostial diameter and volume were measured and calculated using a semiautomatic calliper tool. Total ostial PV volume was significantly increased in patients with AFib as compared to controls (P<0.005). Similarly, total ostial PV diameter was significantly increased in AFib compared to controls (P<0.001). In AFib, the largest PV volume and diameters were measured in right superior PV (P<0.05versus controls). The difference in PV volume between patients and controls was most pronounced in right superior PVs (P=0.015). Right middle PVs were found more often in patients with AFib (16/50; 32%) than in normal subjects (7/50; 14%).Conclusion. Enlargement of PV ostial area and enlargement of volume are frequent findings in patients with drug refractory AFib. These parameters may add to the risk stratification for AFib recurrence following RFCA.
Optimization of Urban Highway Bypass Horizontal Alignment: A Methodological Overview of Intelligent Spatial MCDA Approach Using Fuzzy AHP and GIS
Authors: Ouma Yashon O. , Yabann Chepng’etich , Kirichu Mark , Tateishi Ryutaro
Published: June 2014

Selection of urban bypass highway alternatives involves the consideration of competing and conflicting criteria and factors, which require multicriteria decision analysis. Analytic hierarchy process (AHP) is one of the most commonly used multicriteria decision making (MCDM) methods that can integrate personal preferences in performing spatial analyses on the physical and nonphysical parameters. In this paper, the traditional AHP is modified to fuzzy AHP for the determination of the optimal bypass route for Eldoret town in Kenya. The fuzzy AHP is proposed in order to take care of the vagueness type uncertainty encountered in alternative bypass location determination. In the implementation, both engineering and environmental factors comprising of physical and socioeconomic objectives were considered at different levels of decision hierarchy. The results showed that the physical objectives (elevation, slope, soils, geology, and drainage networks) and socioeconomic objectives (land-use and road networks) contributed the same weight of 0.5 towards the bypass location prioritization process. At the subcriteria evaluation level, land-use and existing road networks contributed the highest significance of 47.3% amongst the seven decision factors. Integrated with GIS-based least cost path (LCP) analysis, the fuzzy AHP results produced the most desirable and optimal route alignment, as compared to the AHP only prioritization approach.
Multipotent Neural Crest Stem Cell-Like Cells from Rat Vibrissa Dermal Papilla Induce Neuronal Differentiation of PC12 Cells
Authors: Li Meiying , Liu Jin Yu , Wang Shichao , Xu Hao , Cui Lifeng , Lv Shuang , Xu Jinying , Liu Shutong , Chi Guangfan , Li Yulin
Published: June 2014

Bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (BMSCs) transplants have been approved for treating central nervous system (CNS) injuries and diseases; however, their clinical applications are limited. Here, we model the therapeutic potential of dermal papilla cells (DPCs)in vitro. DPCs were isolated from rat vibrissae and characterized by immunocytofluorescence, RT-PCR, and multidifferentiation assays. We examined whether these cells could secrete neurotrophic factors (NTFs) by using cocultures of rat pheochromocytoma cells (PC12) with conditioned medium and ELISA assay. DPCs expressed Sox10, P75, Nestin, Sox9, and differentiated into adipocytes, osteoblasts, smooth muscle cells, and neurons under specific inducing conditions. The DPC-conditioned medium (DPC-CM) induced neuronal differentiation of PC12 cells and promoted neurite outgrowth. Results of ELISA assay showed that compared to BMSCs, DPCs secreted more brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) and glial cell line-derived neurotrophic factor (GDNF). Moreover, we observed that, compared with the total DPC population, sphere-forming DPCs expressed higher levels of Nestin and P75 and secreted greater amounts of GDNF. The DPCs from craniofacial hair follicle papilla may be a new and promising source for treating CNS injuries and diseases.
Single High Intensity Focused Ultrasound Session as a Whole Gland Primary Treatment for Clinically Localized Prostate Cancer: 10-Year Outcomes
Authors: Limani Ksenija , Aoun Fouad , Holz Serge , Paesmans Marianne , Peltier Alexandre , van Velthoven Roland
Published: June 2014

Objectives. To assess the treatment outcomes of a single session of whole gland high intensity focused ultrasound (HIFU) for patients with localized prostate cancer (PCa).Methods. Response rates were defined using the Stuttgart and Phoenix criteria. Complications were graded according to the Clavien score.Results. At a median follow-up of 94months, 48 (44.4%) and 50 (46.3%) patients experienced biochemical recurrence for Phoenix and Stuttgart definition, respectively. The 5- and 10-year actuarial biochemical recurrence free survival rates were 57% and 40%, respectively. The 10-year overall survival rate, cancer specific survival rate, and metastasis free survival rate were 72%, 90%, and 70%, respectively. Preoperative high risk category, Gleason score, preoperative PSA, and postoperative nadir PSA were independent predictors of oncological failure. 24.5% of patients had self-resolving LUTS, 18.2% had urinary tract infection, and 18.2% had acute urinary retention. A grade 3b complication occurred in 27 patients. Pad-free continence rate was 87.9% and the erectile dysfunction rate was 30.8%.Conclusion. Single session HIFU can be alternative therapy for patients with low risk PCa. Patients with intermediate risk should be informed about the need of multiple sessions of HIFU and/or adjuvant treatments and HIFU performed very poorly in high risk patients.
Decreased Expression of the Aryl Hydrocarbon Receptor in Ocular Behcet’s Disease
Authors: Wang Chaokui , Ye Zi , Kijlstra Aize , Zhou Yan , Yang Peizeng
Published: June 2014

Recent studies show that the aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR) is involved in immune responses. AhR is activated following interaction with its ligands, such as 6-formylindolo[3,2-b]carbazole (FICZ) and 2-(1′H-indole-3′-carbonyl)-thiazole-4-carboxylic acid methyl ester (ITE). In this study, we investigated the role of AhR activation by its endogenous ligands in the pathogenesis of ocular Behcet’s disease (BD). The expression of AhR was significantly decreased in active BD patients as compared to inactive BD patients and normal controls. Both FICZ and ITE inhibited Th1 and Th17 polarization and induced the expression of IL-22 by PBMCs and by CD4+T cells in active BD patients and normal controls. Stimulation of purified CD4+T cells with FICZ or ITE caused a decreased expression of RORC, IL-17, IL-23R, and CCR6 and an increased phosphorylation of STAT3 and STAT5. The present study suggests that a decreased AhR expression is associated with disease activity in BD patients. The activation of AhR by either FICZ or ITE was able to inhibit Th1 and Th17 cell polarization. Further studies are needed to investigate whether modulation of AhR might be used in the treatment of BD.
Low Density Lipoprotein-Containing Circulating Immune Complexes: Role in Atherosclerosis and Diagnostic Value
Authors: Sobenin Igor A. , Salonen Jukka T. , Zhelankin Andrey V. , Melnichenko Alexandra A. , Kaikkonen Jari , Bobryshev Yuri V. , Orekhov Alexander N.
Published: June 2014

It has been suggested that low density lipoprotein-containing circulating immune complexes (LDL-CIC) play a role in atherogenesis and are involved in the formation of early atherosclerotic lesion. These complexes, as well as anti-LDL autoantibodies, have been found in the blood and in the atherosclerotic lesions of patients with different cardiovascular diseases, as well as in the blood of animals with experimental atherosclerosis. It can be suggested that the presence of anti-LDL antibodies in the blood is a result of immune response induced by lipoprotein modification. LDL-CIC differs from native LDL in many aspects. It has much lower sialic acid content, smaller diameter, and higher density and is more electronegative than native LDL. Fraction of LDL-CICs is fundamental to the serum atherogenicity manifested at the cellular level. LDL-CIC, unlike native LDL, is able to induce intracellular accumulation of neutral lipids, especially esterified cholesterol, in cells cultured from uninvolved human aortic intima and in macrophage cultures. After removal of LDL-CIC, the CHD patient’s sera lose their atherogenic properties. Titer of LDL-CIC in blood serum significantly correlates with progression of atherosclerosis in humanin vivoand has the highest diagnostic value among other measured serum lipid parameters. Elevated CIC-cholesterol might well be a possible risk factor of coronary atherosclerosis.