bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Role of Sentinel Lymph Node Biopsy in the Management of Merkel Cell Carcinoma
Authors: Arruda Eric P. , Higgins Kevin M.
Published: October 2012

Merkel cell carcinoma (MCC) is a rare and typically aggressive form of skin cancer. It most commonly affects the elderly and has a predilection for the sun-exposed skin of the head and neck region. Other etiological factors include immune suppression, organ transplantation, and polyoma virus infection. MCC has a propensity to spread to regional lymphatics with a high locoregional recurrence rate. Since its discovery in 1972, treatment paradigms have shifted, with no consensus on optimal management strategies. Currently, standard of care includes surgical intervention to the primary and locoregional site with adjuvant radiotherapy for high-risk disease. In this paper, we discuss the history, pathology, and epidemiology of this rare disease with a focus on the evidentiary basis of treatment protocols. The use of sentinel lymph node biopsy as a management option will be the focus of this paper.
DC Motor Parameter Identification Using Speed Step Responses
Authors: Wu Wei
Published: October 2012

Based on the DC motor speed response measurement under a step voltage input, important motor parameters such as the electrical time constant, the mechanical time constant, and the friction can be estimated. A power series expansion of the motor speed response is presented, whose coefficients are related to the motor parameters. These coefficients can be easily computed using existing curve fitting methods. Experimental results are presented to demonstrate the application of this approach. In these experiments, the approach was readily implemented and gave more accurate estimates than conventional methods.
Centrosome Aberrations Associated with Cellular Senescence and p53 Localization at Supernumerary Centrosomes
Authors: Ohshima Susumu
Published: October 2012

Centrosome overduplication or amplification has been observed in many human cancers and in premalignant tissue, but the mechanisms leading to such centrosome aberrations are not fully understood. We previously showed that abnormal mitotic cells with supernumerary centrosomes increase with replicative senescence in human fibroblasts, especially in a polyploid subpopulation. This study examines localization of p53 protein at centrosomes in mitotic cells, which is often observed in association with DNA damage response, to investigate a possible association between p53 localization and numerical centrosome aberrations induced by cellular senescence. Cultures at later passages or the 4th day after exposure to H2O2showed increased frequencies of mitotic cells with supernumerary centrosomes, especially in a polyploid subpopulation. Immunohistochemical analysis frequently showed p53-positive foci in mitotic cells, and some were localized at centrosomes. The number of p53-positive foci in mitotic cells and its localization to centrosomes increased with replicative and premature senescence. Supernumerary centrosomes showed higher frequencies of p53 localization compared to normally duplicated centrosomes. Centrosome-associated p53 protein was phosphorylated at Ser15. These data suggest a possible association between localization of p53 protein and numerical centrosome aberrations in replicatively or prematurely senescent cells.
Transforming Area Coverage to Target Coverage to Maintain Coverage and Connectivity for Wireless Sensor Networks
Authors: Deng Xiu , Yu Jiguo , Yu Dongxiao , Chen Congcong
Published: October 2012

Area coverage is one of the key issues for wireless sensor networks. It aims at selecting a minimum number of sensor nodes to cover the whole sensing region and maximizing the lifetime of the network. In this paper, we discuss the energy-efficient area coverage problem considering boundary effects in a new perspective, that is, transforming the area coverage problem to the target coverage problem and then achieving full area coverage by covering all the targets in the converted target coverage problem. Thus, the coverage of every point in the sensing region is transformed to the coverage of a fraction of targets. Two schemes for the converted target coverage are proposed, which can generate cover sets covering all the targets. The network constructed by sensor nodes in the cover set is proved to be connected. Compared with the previous algorithms, simulation results show that the proposed algorithm can prolong the lifetime of the network.
Shell Shape Analysis and Spatial Allometry Patterns of Manila Clam (Ruditapes philippinarum) in a Mesotidal Coastal Lagoon
Authors: Caill-Milly Nathalie , Bru Noëlle , Mahé Kélig , Borie Catherine , D'Amico Frank
Published: October 2012

While gradual allometric changes of shells are intrinsically driven by genotype, morphometrical shifts can also be modulated by local environmental conditions. Consequently the common use of a unique dimension (usually length) to assess bivalves’ growth may mask phenotypic differences in valve shape among populations. A morphometric exhaustive study was conducted on Manila clam,Ruditapes philippinarum, by acquiring data in the French Arcachon Bay (intrasite phenotypic variability) and by comparing with other sites in the literature (intersite phenotypic variability). 2070 shells were subsampled, weighted, and automatically measured using TNPC software. Some ratios’ values indicate a relatively round and globular shape shell in comparison with other sites confirming poor conditions for some individuals. Among adult clams, three main morphological groups were identified and discussed according to spatial considerations. Allometric relations for pairs of shell descriptors were determined by testing classical linear and piecewise regression models on log-transformed relation of Huxley. A significant shape change correlated to size was observed; it corresponds to the second year of life of the clam. Relationships between density, disease, and shell shape are demonstrated and discussed related to other potential factors affecting shell shape. Finally, consequences on population regulation are addressed.
A Note on -Convex Fuzzy Processes
Authors: Matłoka Marian
Published: October 2012

We first define the concept of -convex fuzzy processes. Second, we present some basic properties of such processes.
Identification of Women for Referral to Colposcopy by Neural Networks: A Preliminary Study Based on LBC and Molecular Biomarkers
Authors: Karakitsos Petros , Chrelias Charalampos , Pouliakis Abraham , Koliopoulos George , Spathis Aris , Kyrgiou Maria , Meristoudis Christos , Chranioti Aikaterini , Kottaridi Christine , Valasoulis George , Panayiotides Ioannis , Paraskevaidis Evangelos
Published: October 2012

Objective of this study is to investigate the potential of the learning vector quantizer neural network (LVQ-NN) classifier on various diagnostic variables used in the modern cytopathology laboratory and to build an algorithm that may facilitate the classification of individual cases. From all women included in the study, a liquid-based cytology sample was obtained; this was tested via HPV DNA test, E6/E7 HPV mRNA test, and p16 immunostaining. The data were classified by the LVQ-NN into two groups: CIN-2 or worse and CIN-1 or less. Half of the cases were used to train the LVQ-NN; the remaining cases (test set) were used for validation. Out of the 1258 cases, cytology identified correctly 72.90% of the CIN-2 or worst cases and 97.37% of the CIN-1 or less cases, with overall accuracy 94.36%. The application of the LVQ-NN on the test set allowed correct classification for 84.62% of the cases with CIN-2 or worse and 97.64% of the cases with CIN-1 or less, with overall accuracy of 96.03%. The use of the LVQ-NN with cytology and the proposed biomarkers improves significantly the correct classification of cervical precancerous lesions and/or cancer and may facilitate diagnosis and patient management.
Contraceptive Use and Associated Factors among Women Enrolling into HIV Care in Southwestern Uganda
Authors: Muyindike Winnie , Fatch Robin , Steinfield Rachel , Matthews Lynn T. , Musinguzi Nicholas , Emenyonu Nneka I. , Martin Jeffrey N. , Hahn Judith A.
Published: October 2012

Background. Preventing unintended pregnancies among women living with HIV is an important component of prevention of mother-to-child HIV transmission (PMTCT), yet few data exist on contraceptive use among women entering HIV care.Methods. This was a retrospective study of electronic medical records from the initial HIV clinic visits of 826 sexually active, nonpregnant, 18–49-year old women in southwestern Uganda in 2009. We examined whether contraceptive use was associated with HIV status disclosure to one’s spouse.Results. The proportion reporting use of contraception was 27.8%. The most common method used was injectable hormones (51.7%), followed by condoms (29.6%), and oral contraceptives (8.7%). In multivariable analysis, the odds of contraceptive use were significantly higher among women reporting secondary education, higher income, three or more children, and younger age. There were no significant independent associations between contraceptive use and HIV status disclosure to spouse.Discussion. Contraceptive use among HIV-positive females enrolling into HIV care in southwestern Uganda was low. Our results suggest that increased emphasis should be given to increase the contraception uptake for all women especially those with lower education and income. HIV clinics may be prime sites for contraception education and service delivery integration.
Frequency of TLR 2, 4, and 9 Gene Polymorphisms in Chinese Population and Their Susceptibility to Type 2 Diabetes and Coronary Artery Disease
Authors: Liu Fengjing , Lu Weixin , Qian Qiaohui , Qi Weigang , Hu Jifan , Feng Bo
Published: October 2012

Toll-like receptors (TLRs) are pivotal components of the innate immune response. Activation of the innate immune system and subsequent chronic low-grade inflammation are thought to be involved in the pathogenesis of atherosclerosis and type 2 diabetes. In the study, we genotyped TLRs gene polymorphisms, including TLR2 Arg677Trp and Arg753Gln, TLR4 Asp299Gly and Thr399Ile, TLR9-1486T/C and -1237T/C. The frequencies of TT, TC and CC genotype of TLR9-1486T/C mutation were 39.6%, 45.8% and 14.6%, respectively; the frequencies of T allele and C allele were 62.5% and 37.5%. However, neither of these parameters was statistically significant among study groups. In addition, we were surprised to find that the commonly reported TLR SNPs in the Western countries, like TLR2 Arg677Trp or Arg753Gln, TLR4 Asp299Gly or Thr399Ile and TLR9-1237T/C, were not polymorphic at all in all study subjects. In conclusion, our data suggests that TLR2 Arg677Trp or Arg753Gln, TLR4 Asp299Gly or Thr399Ile and TLR9-1237T/C polymorphisms have low frequency and TLR9-1486T/C polymorphism may not be a suitable marker in predicting the susceptibility to type 2 diabetes or coronary artery disease in the Chinese Han population.
Evaluation of DNA Single and Double Strand Breaks in Women with Cervical Neoplasia Based on Alkaline and Neutral Comet Assay Techniques
Authors: Cortés-Gutiérrez Elva I. , Hernández-Garza Fernando , García-Pérez Jorge O. , Dávila-Rodríguez Martha I. , Aguado-Barrera Miguel E. , Cerda-Flores Ricardo M.
Published: October 2012

A hospital-based unmatched case-control study was performed in order to determine the relation of DNA single (ssb) and double (dsb) strand breaks in women with and without cervical neoplasia. Cervical epithelial cells of 30 women: 10 with low grade squamous intraepithelial lesions (LG-SIL), 10 with high-grade SIL (HG-SIL), and 10 without cervical lesions were evaluated using alkaline and neutral comet assays. A significant increase in global DNA damage (ssb + dsb) and dsb was observed in patients with HG-SIL (48.90 ± 12.87 and 23.50 ± 13.91), patients with LG-SIL (33.60 ± 14.96 and 11.20 ± 5.71), and controls (21.70 ± 11.87 and 5.30 ± 5.38; resp.). Pearson correlation coefficient reveled a strong relation between the levels ssb and dsb (, , and , resp.) and progression of neoplasia. The increase of dsb damage in patients with HG-SIL was confirmed by DNA breakage detection-FISH (DBD-FISH) on neutral comets. Our results argue in favor of a real genomic instability in women with cervical neoplasia, which was strengthened by our finding of a higher proportion of DNA dsb.
Inhibition of Akt Attenuates RPO-Induced Cardioprotection
Authors: Katengua-Thamahane Emma , Engelbrecht Anna-Mart , Esterhuyse Adriaan J. , Van Rooyen Jacques
Published: October 2012

Previous studies have shown that red palm oil (RPO) supplementation protected rat hearts against ischaemia-reperfusion injury. Evidence from these studies suggested that Akt may be partly responsible for the observed protection. The aim of the current study was therefore to prove or refute the involvement of Akt in the RPO-induced cardioprotection by administration of a specific Akt inhibitor (A6730). Male Wistar rats were randomly divided into 2 groups: a control group receiving standard rat chow and an experimental group receiving standard rat chow plus 2 mL RPO for six weeks. Hearts were excised and mounted on the Langendorff perfusion system. Functional recovery was documented. A different set of hearts were freeze-clamped to assess total and phosphorylation status of Akt. Another set of hearts were subjected to the same perfusion conditions with addition of A6730. Hearts from this protocol were freeze-clamped and assessed for total and phospho-Akt. RPO improved functional recovery which was associated with increased phosphorylation of Akt on Ser473 and Thr308 residues. Blockade of Akt phosphorylation caused poor functional recovery. For the first time, these results prove that Akt plays an important role in the RPO-induced cardioprotection.
MHD Mixed Convective Boundary Layer Flow of a Nanofluid through a Porous Medium due to an Exponentially Stretching Sheet
Authors: Ferdows M. , Khan Md. Shakhaoath , Alam Md. Mahmud , Sun Shuyu
Published: October 2012

Magnetohydrodynamic (MHD) boundary layer flow of a nanofluid over an exponentially stretching sheet was studied. The governing boundary layer equations are reduced into ordinary differential equations by a similarity transformation. The transformed equations are solved numerically using the Nactsheim‐Swigert shooting technique together with Runge‐Kutta six‐order iteration schemes. The effects of the governing parameters on the flow field and heat transfer characteristics were obtained and discussed. The numerical solutions for the wall skin friction coefficient, the heat and mass transfer coefficient, and the velocity, temperature, and concentration profiles are computed, analyzed, and discussed graphically. Comparison with previously published work is performed and excellent agreement is observed.
Facing Your Fears in Adolescence: Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy for High-Functioning Autism Spectrum Disorders and Anxiety
Authors: Reaven Judy , Blakeley-Smith Audrey , Leuthe Eileen , Moody Eric , Hepburn Susan
Published: October 2012

Adolescents with high-functioning autism spectrum disorders (ASDs) are at high risk for developing psychiatric symptoms, with anxiety disorders among the most commonly cooccurring. Cognitive behavior therapies (CBTs) are considered the best practice for treating anxiety in the general population. Modified CBT approaches for youth with high-functioning ASD and anxiety have resulted in significant reductions in anxiety following intervention. The purpose of the present study was to develop an intervention for treating anxiety in adolescents with ASD based on a CBT program designed for school-aged children. The Facing Your Fears-Adolescent Version (FYF-A) program was developed; feasibility and acceptability data were obtained, along with initial efficacy of the intervention. Twenty-four adolescents, aged 13–18, completed the FYF-A intervention. Results indicated significant reductions in anxiety severity and interference posttreatment, with low rates of anxiety maintained at 3-month follow-up. In addition, nearly 46% of teen participants met criteria for a positive treatment response on primary diagnosis following the intervention. Initial findings from the current study are encouraging and suggest that modified group CBT for adolescents with high-functioning ASD may be effective in reducing anxiety symptoms. Limitations include small sample size and lack of control group. Future directions are discussed.
Bilateral Absence of the Superior Vena Cava
Authors: Ylänen Kaisa , Poutanen Tuija , Savikurki-Heikkilä Päivi , Uotila Jukka , Korppi Matti , Eerola Anneli
Published: October 2012

Bilateral absence of the superior vena cava (SVC) is a very rarely detected, mainly asymptomatic congenital vascular anomaly. Though usually innocent, this anomaly may complicate cardiothoracic surgery and certain procedures like central venous catheter insertion. This SVC anomaly is poorly known, and we assume that its incidence in the general population may be higher than detected. In this paper, we summarize current knowledge on this anomaly and its clinical implications. In addition, we present a neonatal case with bilateral absence of the SVC associated with a fetal cystic hygroma.Conclusion. Totally absent SVC can cause unexpected problems during cardiothoracic surgery. Suspicion of SVC absence should arise in basic echocardiography. Our paper suggests that, like other congenital anomalies, bilateral absent SVC may be associated with a fetal cyctic hygroma.
New Eighth-Order Derivative-Free Methods for Solving Nonlinear Equations
Authors: Thukral Rajinder
Published: October 2012

A new family of eighth-order derivative-free methods for solving nonlinear equations is presented. It is proved that these methods have the convergence order of eight. These new methods are derivative-free and only use four evaluations of the function per iteration. In fact, we have obtained the optimal order of convergence which supports the Kung and Traub conjecture. Kung and Traub conjectured that the multipoint iteration methods, without memory based onnevaluations could achieve optimal convergence order of . Thus, we present new derivative-free methods which agree with Kung and Traub conjecture for . Numerical comparisons are made to demonstrate the performance of the methods presented.
Soccer Ball Detection by Comparing Different Feature Extraction Methodologies
Authors: Mazzeo Pier Luigi , Leo Marco , Spagnolo Paolo , Nitti Massimiliano
Published: October 2012

This paper presents a comparison of different feature extraction methods for automatically recognizing soccer ball patterns through a probabilistic analysis. It contributes to investigate different well-known feature extraction approaches applied in a soccer environment, in order to measure robustness accuracy and detection performances. This work, evaluating different methodologies, permits to select the one which achieves best performances in terms of detection rate and
CPU processing time. The effectiveness of the different methodologies is demonstrated by a huge number of experiments on real ball examples under challenging
conditions.
Search for Light New Physics atBFactories
Authors: Echenard Bertrand
Published: October 2012

Many extensions of the Standard Model include the possibility of light new particles, such as light Higgs bosons or dark matter candidates. These scenarios can be probed using the large datasets collected byBfactories, complementing measurements performed at the LHC. This paper summarizes recent searches for light new physics conducted by theBABARand Belle experiments.
A Patient with Corneal Epithelial Disorder That Developed after Administration of a Latanoprost Generic, but Not a Brand-Name Drug, Eye Drop
Authors: Takada Yukihisa , Okada Yuka , Fujita Norihito , Saika Shizuya
Published: October 2012

Background. We report a patient who developed corneal epithelial disorder repeatedly after changing the prescription from Xalatan eye drops (Pfizer Inc.) to Latanoprost eye drops (Kaken Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd.), both containing 0.005% latanoprost.Case Report. An 88-year-old male with glaucoma had been treated with Timoptol eye drops and Xalatan eye drops for a few years. While he stayed in a health care facility for the elderly, Xalatan eye drops was changed to Latanoprost eye drops usage, and eye pain developed on the day of this change. On the next day, he visited our department, and corneal epithelial disorder was observed. The drops were discontinued, and the corneal epithelial disorder healed after 2 days. Twenty days after the first consultation, Xalatan eye drops and Latanoprost eye drops were resumed by a physician of internal medicine in the health care facility, but eye pain developed again. After discontinuation of the two drugs, Xalatan eye drops usage was resumed the next day, but no corneal epithelial disorder was observed thereafter.Conclusions. This clinical history strongly suggested the association between a generic drug, Latanoprost eye drops, and the development of corneal epithelial disorder.
Gingival Recession: Review and Strategies in Treatment of Recession
Authors: Pradeep Koppolu , Rajababu Palaparthy , Satyanarayana Durvasula , Sagar Vidya
Published: October 2012

One of the most common esthetic concerns associated with the periodontal tissues is gingival recession. Gingival recession is the exposure of root surfaces due to apical migration of the gingival tissue margins; gingival margin migrates apical to the cementoenamel junction. Although it rarely results in tooth loss, marginal tissue recession is associated with thermal and tactile sensitivity, esthetic complaints, and a tendency toward root caries. This paper reviews etiology, consequences, and the available surgical procedures for the coverage of exposed root surfaces, including three case reports.
Dynamic Programming and Heuristic for Stochastic Uncapacitated Lot‐Sizing Problems with Incremental Quantity Discount
Authors: Zhang Yuli , Song Shiji , Wu Cheng , Yin Wenjun
Published: October 2012

The stochastic uncapacitated lot‐sizing problems with incremental quantity discount have been studied in this paper. First, a multistage stochastic mixed integer model is established by the scenario analysis approach and an equivalent reformulation is obtained through proper relaxation under the decreasing unit order price assumption. The proposed reformulation allows us to extend the production‐path property to this framework, and furthermore we provide a more accurate characterization of the optimal solution. Then, a backward dynamic programming algorithm is developed to obtain the optimal solution and considering its exponential computation complexity in term of time stages, we design a new rolling horizon heuristic based on the proposed property. Comparisons with the commercial solver CPLEX and other heuristics indicate better performance of our proposed algorithms in both quality of solution and run time.
Global Existence and Boundedness of Solutions to a Second‐Order Nonlinear Differential System
Authors: Wu Changjian , Hao Shushuang , Xu Changwei
Published: October 2012

We investigate the global existence and boundedness of solutions to a second‐order nonlinear differential system.
Fast Parameters Estimation in Medication Efficacy Assessment Model for Heart Failure Treatment
Authors: Ren Yinzi , Fu Xiao , Pan Qing , Lin Chengyu , Yang Guiqiu , Li Li , Gong Shijin , Cai Guolong , Yan Jing , Ning Gangmin
Published: October 2012

Introduction. Heart failure (HF) is a common and potentially fatal condition. Cardiovascular research has focused on medical therapy for HF. Theoretical modelling could enable simulation and evaluation of the effectiveness of medications. Furthermore, the models could also help predict patients’ cardiac response to the treatment which will be valuable for clinical decision-making.Methods. This study presents a fast parameters estimation algorithm for constructing a cardiovascular model for medicine evaluation. The outcome of HF treatment is assessed by hemodynamic parameters and a comprehensive index furnished by the model. Angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors (ACEIs) were used as a model drug in this study.Results. Our simulation results showed different treatment responses to enalapril and lisinopril, which are both ACEI drugs. A dose-effect was also observed in the model simulation.Conclusions. Our results agreed well with the findings from clinical trials and previous literature, suggesting the validity of the model.
Er:YAG Laser and Fractured Incisor Restorations: AnIn VitroStudy
Authors: Fornaini C. , Petruzzella S. , Podda R. , Merigo E. , Nammour S. , Vescovi P.
Published: October 2012

Introduction. The aim of this study was to analyse the effects of an Er:YAG laser on enamel and dentine in cases of dental restorations involving fractured teeth, utilizing the dental fragment.Materials and Methods. Seventy-two freshly extracted bovine incisors were fractured at the coronal level by using a hammer applied with a standardized method, and the fragment was reattached by using three different methods: Er:YAG laser, orthophosphoric acid, and laser plus acid. The different groups were evaluated by a test realized with the dynamometer to know the force required to successfully detach the reattached fragment and by a microinfiltration test by using a 0.5% methylene blue solution followed by the optic microscope observation.Results. The compression test showed only a slight difference between the three groups, without any statistical significance. The infiltration test used to evaluate the marginal seal between the fracture fragment and the tooth demonstrated that etching with Er:YAG laser alone or in combination with orthophosphoric acid gives better results than orthophosphoric acid alone, with a highly significant statistical result.Discussion. Reattaching a tooth fragment represents a clinically proven methodology, in terms of achieving resistance to detachment, and the aim of this work was to demonstrate the advantages of Er:YAG laser on this procedure.Conclusion. This “in vitro” study confirms that Er:YAG laser can be employed in dental traumatology to restore frontal teeth after coronal fracture.
Management of Complications during Gastric Endoscopic Submucosal Dissection
Authors: Lee Dong Wook , Jeon Seong Woo
Published: October 2012

Popularity of endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD) has shown an increase during the last decade, and may, for the time being, be the most important technique in treatment of early gastrointestinal cancer or a premalignant lesion. This technique has advantages in the aspect of en bloc resection, which enables evaluation of the completeness of resection and other pathologic characteristics; however, it has limitation in terms of complications, compared to endoscopic mucosal resection (EMR). Bleeding and perforation are the most common complications encountered during the procedure. These complications can cause embarrassment for the endoscopist and hamper performance of the procedure, which can result in an incomplete resection. To overcome these obstacles during performance of the procedure, we should be familiar with management of complications. In particular, beginners who start performing ESD should have full knowledge of and be in good handling of the method of hemostasis using hemoclips or electrocoagulation for management of complications. Various methods, procedures, and equipment are under development, which will provide us with powerful tools for achievement of successful ESD without complications in the near future.
Modified Global and Modified Linear Contrast Stretching Algorithms: New Colour Contrast Enhancement Techniques for Microscopic Analysis of Malaria Slide Images
Authors: Abdul-Nasir Aimi Salihah , Mashor Mohd Yusoff , Mohamed Zeehaida
Published: October 2012

Malaria is one of the serious global health problem, causing widespread sufferings and deaths in various parts of the world. With the large number of cases diagnosed over the year, early detection and accurate diagnosis which facilitates prompt treatment is an essential requirement to control malaria. For centuries now, manual microscopic examination of blood slide remains the gold standard for malaria diagnosis. However, low contrast of the malaria and variable smears quality are some factors that may influence the accuracy of interpretation by microbiologists. In order to reduce this problem, this paper aims to investigate the performance of the proposed contrast enhancement techniques namely, modified global and modified linear contrast stretching as well as the conventional global and linear contrast stretching that have been applied on malaria images ofP. vivaxspecies. The results show that the proposed modified global and modified linear contrast stretching techniques have successfully increased the contrast of the parasites and the infected red blood cells compared to the conventional global and linear contrast stretching. Hence, the resultant images would become useful to microbiologists for identification of various stages and species of malaria.
Performance Assessment of Product Service System from System Architecture Perspectives
Authors: Mo John P. T.
Published: October 2012

New business models in complex engineering products have favoured the integration of acquisition and sustainment phases in capability development. The product service system (PSS) concept enables manufacturers of complex engineering products to incorporate support services into the product’s manufacturing and sustainment lifecycle. However, the PSS design has imposed significant risks to the manufacturer not only in the manufacture of the product itself, but also in the provision of support services over long period of time at a predetermined price. This paper analysed three case studies using case study research design approach and mapped the service elements of the case studies to the generic complex engineering product service system (CEPSS) model. By establishing the concept of capability distribution for a PSS enterprise, the capability of the CEPSS can be overlaid on the performance-based reward scheme so that decision makers evaluate options related to the business opportunities presented to them.
Functional Annotation of Small Noncoding RNAs Target Genes Provides Evidence for a Deregulated Ubiquitin-Proteasome Pathway in Spinocerebellar Ataxia Type 1
Authors: Persengiev Stephan , Kondova Ivanela , Bontrop Ronald E.
Published: October 2012

Spinocerebellar ataxia type 1 (SCA1) is a neurodegenerative disorder caused by the expansion of CAG repeats in the ataxin 1 (ATXN1) gene. In affected cerebellar neurons of patients, mutant ATXN1 accumulates in ubiquitin-positive nuclear inclusions, indicating that protein misfolding is involved in SCA1 pathogenesis. In this study, we functionally annotated the target genes of the small noncoding RNAs (ncRNAs) that were selectively activated in the affected brain compartments. The primary targets of these RNAs, which exhibited a significant enrichment in the cerebellum and cortex of SCA1 patients, were members of the ubiquitin-proteasome system. Thus, we identified and functionally annotated a plausible regulatory pathway that may serve as a potential target to modulate the outcome of neurodegenerative diseases.
miRNA589 Regulates Epithelial-Mesenchymal Transition in Human Peritoneal Mesothelial Cells
Authors: Zhang Ke , Zhang Hao , Zhou Xun , Tang Wen-bin , Xiao Li , Liu Ying-hong , Liu Hong , Peng You-ming , Sun Lin , Liu Fu-you
Published: October 2012

Background. microRNA (miRNA, miR) are thought to interact with multiple mRNAs which are involved in the EMT process. But the role of miRNAs in peritoneal fibrosis has remained unknown.Objective. To determine if miRNA589 regulates the EMT induced by TGFβ1 in human peritoneal mesothelial cell line (HMrSV5 cells).Methods. 1. Level of miR589 was detected in both human peritoneal mesothelial cells (HPMCs) isolated from continuous ambulatory peritoneal dialysis (CAPD) patients’ effluent and HMrSV5 cells treated with or without TGFβ1. 2. HMrSV5 cells were divided into three groups: control group, TGFβ1 group, and pre-miR-589+TGFβ1 group. The level of miRNA589 was determined by realtime PCR. The expressions of ZO-1, vimentin, and E-cadherin in HPMCs were detected, respectively.Results. Decreased level of miRNA589 was obtained in either HPMCs of long-term CAPD patients or HMrSV5 cells treated with TGFβ1. In vitro, TGFβ1 led to upregulation of vimentin and downregulation of ZO-1 as well as E-cadherin in HMrSV5 cells, which suggested EMT, was induced. The changes were accompanied with notably decreased level of miRNA589 in HMrSV5 cells treated with TGFβ1. Overexpression of miRNA589 by transfection with pre-miRNA589 partially reversed these EMT changes.Conclusion. miRNA589 mediates TGFβ1 induced EMT in human peritoneal mesothelial cells.
Dirac Equation under Scalar, Vector, and Tensor Cornell Interactions
Authors: Hassanabadi H. , Maghsoodi E. , Zarrinkamar S. , Rahimov H.
Published: October 2012

Spin and pseudospin symmetries of Dirac equation are solved under scalar, vector, and tensor interactions for arbitrary quantum number via the analytical ansatz approach. The spectrum of the system is numerically reported for typical values of the potential parameters.
Desipramine Pretreatment Improves Sympathetic Remodeling and Ventricular Fibrillation Threshold after Myocardial Ischemia
Authors: Wu Xiaolin , Jiang Hong , Yu Lilei , Hu Xiaorong , Liu Wenwei
Published: October 2012

Abnormal increase in sympathetic nerve sprouting was responsible for the ventricular arrhythmogenesis after myocardial infarction. This study investigated whether the norepinephrine transporter inhibitor, desipramine, can modulate sympathetic remodeling and ventricular fibrillation threshold (VFT) after myocardial ischemia-reperfusion. Rats were administered desipramine (0.8 mg/kg, IV) before or after myocardial ischemia. VFT, infarct size, tyrosine hydroxylase (TH) and growth-associated protein 43 (GAP43)-positive nerve fibers were measured after one week. The VFT of preischemic treatment group was11.0±2.65 V and significantly higher than that of control ischemic group (7.2±1.30 V,P<0.05). Infarct size in the preischemic treatment group (23.3±2.4%) was significantly lower than that in the control ischemic group (30.8±1.3%,P<0.05) and the delayed application group (27.1±2.6%,P<0.05). The density of TH and GAP43-positive nerve fibers in the control ischemic group was significantly higher than that in the other three groups (P<0.05). The density of nerve fibers improved after desipramine treatment. Moreover, there was a negative correlation between the VFT and both TH and GAP43-positive nerve fiber density in the infarct border zone (P<0.05). Desipramine treatment before acute myocardial ischemia can decrease infarct size, improve sympathetic remodeling, and increase VFT and electrical stability of ischemic hearts. Desipramine appears to cause myocardial ischemic preconditioning.
A Laccase with Antiproliferative and HIV-I Reverse Transcriptase Inhibitory Activities from the Mycorrhizal FungusAgaricus placomyces
Authors: Sun Jian , Chen Qing-Jun , Cao Qing-Qin , Wu Ying-Ying , Xu Li-Jing , Zhu Meng-Juan , Ng Tzi-Bun , Wang He-Xiang , Zhang Guo-Qing
Published: October 2012

A novel 68 kDa laccase was purified from the mycorrhizal fungusAgaricus placomycesby utilizing a procedure that comprised three successive steps of ion exchange chromatography and gel filtration as the final step. The monomeric enzyme exhibited the N-terminal amino acid sequence of DVIGPQAQVTLANQD, which showed only a low extent of homology to sequences of other fungal laccases. The optimal temperature forA. placomyceslaccase was 30°C, and optimal pH values for laccase activity towards the substrates 2,7′-azinobis[3-ethylbenzothiazolone-6-sulfonic acid] diammonium salt (ABTS) and hydroquinone were 5.2 and 6.8, respectively. The laccase displayed, at 30°C and pH 5.2,Kmvalues of 0.392 mM towards hydroquinone and 0.775 mM towards ABTS. It potently suppressed proliferation of MCF 7 human breast cancer cells and Hep G2 hepatoma cells and inhibited human immunodeficiency virus type 1 (HIV-1) reverse transcriptase (RT) activity with an IC50of 1.8 μM, 1.7 μM, and 1.25 μM, respectively, signifying that it is an antipathogenic protein.
The Role of Purinergic Receptors in Cancer-Induced Bone Pain
Authors: Falk Sarah , Uldall Maria , Heegaard Anne-Marie
Published: October 2012

Cancer-induced bone pain severely compromises the quality of life of many patients suffering from bone metastasis, as current therapies leave some patients with inadequate pain relief. The recent development of specific animal models has increased the understanding of the molecular and cellular mechanisms underlying cancer-induced bone pain including the involvement of ATP and the purinergic receptors in the progression of the pain state. In nociception, ATP acts as an extracellular messenger to transmit sensory information both at the peripheral site of tissue damage and in the spinal cord. Several of the purinergic receptors have been shown to be important for the development and maintenance of neuropathic and inflammatory pain, and studies have demonstrated the importance of both peripheral and central mechanisms. We here provide an overview of the current literature on the role of purinergic receptors in cancer-induced bone pain with emphasis on some of the difficulties related to studying this complex pain state.
Dimensional Ridge Preservation with a Novel Highly Porous TiO2Scaffold: An Experimental Study in Minipigs
Authors: Tiainen Hanna , Verket Anders , Haugen Håvard J. , Lyngstadaas S. Petter , Wohlfahrt Johan Caspar
Published: October 2012

Despite being considered noncritical size defects, extraction sockets often require the use of bone grafts or bone graft substitutes in order to facilitate a stable implant site with an aesthetically pleasing mucosal architecture and prosthetic reconstruction. In the present study, the effect of novel TiO2scaffolds on dimensional ridge preservation was evaluated following their placement into surgically modified extraction sockets in the premolar region of minipig mandibles. After six weeks of healing, the scaffolds were wellintegrated in the alveolar bone, and the convex shape of the alveolar crest was preserved. The scaffolds were found to partially preserve the dimensions of the native buccal and lingual bone walls adjacent to the defect site. A tendency towards more pronounced vertical ridge resorption, particularly in the buccal bone wall of the nongrafted alveoli, indicates that the TiO2scaffold may be used for suppressing the loss of bone that normally follows tooth extraction.
Altered Polarization, Morphology, and Impaired Innate Immunity Germane to Resident Peritoneal Macrophages in Mice with Long-Term Type 2 Diabetes
Authors: Liu Hui-Fang , Zhang Hui-Jie , Hu Qi-Xian , Liu Xiao-Yan , Wang Zhi-Quan , Fan Jia-Yan , Zhan Ming , Chen Feng-Ling
Published: October 2012

Type 2 diabetes (T2D) is associated with perturbed innate immunity. Macrophages, bridging innate immunity and metabolic disturbances, play important roles in controlling immune homeostasis. However, the effect of long-term diabetic milieu (DM) on the functions and phenotypes of macrophages is still not clear. In this study, we used resident peritoneal macrophages (RPMs) from 5-month-old db/db mice to investigate the changes of macrophages. It was found that RPMs in db/db mice significantly reduced phagocytosis and adhesion capacity. After standardization with body weight, the number of F4/80+ RPMs markedly reduced in db/db mice, and, furthermore, the macrophages skewed to M2-polarizated macrophages. The results of morphology found that the RPMs shape of db/db mice was nearly round, but the RPMs shape of control mice was spindle-shaped and irregular. In this study, we found the cell numbers, morphology, and innate immunity functions of RPMs in 5-month-old type 2 diabetic mice (db/db mice) obtained by abdominal cavity lavage were significantly altered. Importantly, we also found the remarkably increased M2-RPMs in diabetic mice for the first time.
Under-Actuated Robot Manipulator Positioning Control Using Artificial Neural Network Inversion Technique
Authors: Hasan Ali T.
Published: October 2012

This paper is devoted to solve the positioning control problem of underactuated robot manipulator. Artificial Neural Networks Inversion technique was used where a network represents the forward dynamics of the system trained to learn the position of the passive joint over the working space of a 2R underactuated robot. The obtained weights from the learning process were fixed, and the network was inverted to represent the inverse dynamics of the system and then used in the estimation phase to estimate the position of the passive joint for a new set of data the network was not previously trained for. Data used in this research are recorded experimentally from sensors fixed on the robot joints in order to overcome whichever uncertainties presence in the real world such as ill-defined linkage parameters, links flexibility, and backlashes in gear trains. Results were verified experimentally to show the success of the proposed control strategy.
The Inhibitory Effect ofPrunella vulgarisL. on Aldose Reductase and Protein Glycation
Authors: Li Hong Mei , Kim Jin Kyu , Jang Jai Man , Kwon Sang Oh , Cui Cheng Bi , Lim Soon Sung
Published: October 2012

To evaluate the aldose reductase (AR) enzyme inhibitory ability ofPrunella vulgarisL. extract, six compounds were isolated and tested for their effects. The components were subjected toin vitrobioassays to investigate their inhibitory assays using rat lens aldose reductase (rAR) and human recombinant AR (rhAR). Among them, caffeic acid ethylene ester showed the potent inhibition, with the IC50values of rAR and rhAR at3.2±0.55 μM and12.58±0.32 μM, respectively. In the kinetic analyses using Lineweaver-Burk plots of 1/velocity and 1/concentration of substrate, this compound showed noncompetitive inhibition against rhAR. Furthermore, it inhibited galactitol formation in a rat lens incubated with a high concentration of galactose. Also it has antioxidative as well as advanced glycation end products (AGEs) inhibitory effects. As a result, this compound could be offered as a leading compound for further study as a new natural products drug for diabetic complications.
Benfotiamine Counteracts Smoking-Induced Vascular Dysfunction in Healthy Smokers
Authors: Stirban Alin , Nandrean Simona , Kirana Stanley , Götting Christian , Veresiu Ioan Andrei , Tschoepe Diethelm
Published: October 2012

Background. Smoking induces endothelial dysfunction (ED) mainly by exacerbating oxidative stress (OS) and inflammation. Benfotiamine, a thiamine prodrug with high bioavailability, prevents nicotine-induced vascular dysfunction in rats. It remained unknown whether this effect also occurs in humans.Methods. Therefore, 20 healthy volunteers (mean age: 38 years) were investigated twice, 7–10 days apart in a randomized, cross-over, and investigator-blinded design. Vascular function was assessed by flow-mediated vasodilatation (FMD) of the brachial artery and by measurements of the soluble vascular cell adhesion molecule (sVCAM)-1. Investigations were performed after an overnight fast as well as 20 minutes after one cigarette smoking. On another day, the same procedure was applied following a 3-day oral therapy with benfotiamine (1050 mg/day). Ten patients were randomized to start with smoking alone, and ten started with benfotiamine.Results. Results are expressed as (mean ± SEM). Smoking acutely induced a decrease in FMD by 50% (∗∗P<0.001versus baseline) an effect significantly reduced by benfotiamine treatment to 25%∗§(∗P<0.05versus baseline,§P<0.05versus smoking alone). Smoking-induced elevation in sVCAM-1 was also prevented by benfotiamine. The endothelium-independent vasodilatation remained unaltered between days.Conclusion. In healthy volunteers, smoking blunts vascular function mirrored by a decrease in FMD and an increase in sVCAM-1. Short-term treatment with benfotiamine significantly reduces these effects, showing protective vascular properties.
Dynamic Variability of Isometric Action Tremor in Precision Pinching
Authors: Eakin Tim , Spirduso Waneen , Francis Karen L.
Published: October 2012

Evolutionary development of isometric force impulse frequencies, power, and the directional concordance of changes in oscillatory tremor during performance of a two-digit force regulation task was examined. Analyses compared a patient group having tremor confounding volitional force regulation with a control group having no neuropathological diagnosis. Dependent variables for tremor varied temporally and spatially, both within individual trials and across trials, across individuals, across groups, and between digits. Particularly striking findings were magnitude increases during approaches to cue markers and shifts in the concordance phase from pinching toward rigid sway patterns as the magnitude increased. Magnitudes were significantly different among trace line segments of the task and were characterized by differences in relative force required and by the task progress with respect to cue markers for beginning, reversing force change direction, or task termination. The main systematic differences occurred during cue marker approach and were independent of trial sequence order.
Cardiac Autonomic Control Mechanisms in the Pathogenesis of Chagas' Heart Disease
Authors: Dávila Diego F. , Donis Jose H. , Arata de Bellabarba Gabriela , Villarroel Vanesa , Sanchez Francisco , Berrueta Lisbeth , Salmen Siham , Das Neves Barbara
Published: October 2012

Primary abnormalities of the autonomic nervous system had been postulated as the pathogenic mechanisms of myocardial damage, in patients with Chagas disease. However, recent investigations indicate that these abnormalities are secondary and amenable to treatment with beta-adrenergic blockers. Moreover, muscarinic cardiac autoantibodies appear to enhance parasympathetic activity on the sinus node. Therefore, the purpose of this paper is to analyze how knowledge on Chagas' disease evolved from being initially considered as a primary cardioneuromyopathy to the current status of a congestive cardiomyopathy of parasitic origin.