bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
String cosmology — Large-field inflation in string theory
Authors: Westphal Alexander
Published: March 2015

This is a short review of string cosmology. We wish to connect string-scale physics as closely as possible to observables accessible to current or near-future experiments. Our possible best hope to do so is a description of inflation in string theory. The energy scale of inflation can be as high as that of Grand Unification (GUT). If this is the case, this is the closest we can possibly get in energy scales to string-scale physics. Hence, GUT-scale inflation may be our best candidate phenomenon to preserve traces of string-scale dynamics. Our chance to look for such traces is the primordial gravitational wave, or tensor mode signal produced during inflation. For GUT-scale inflation this is strong enough to be potentially visible as a B-mode polarization of the cosmic microwave background (CMB). Moreover, a GUT-scale inflation model has a trans-Planckian excursion of the inflaton scalar field during the observable amount of inflation. Such large-field models of inflation have a clear need for symmetry protection against quantum corrections. This makes them ideal candidates for a description in a candidate fundamental theory like string theory. At the same time the need of large-field inflation models for UV completion makes them particularly susceptible to preserve imprints of their string-scale dynamics in the inflationary observables, the spectral index ns and the fractional tensor mode power r. Hence, we will focus this review on axion monodromy inflation as a mechanism of large-field inflation in string theory.
Single Active Element Based Cascadable Band-Pass Filters for Low-Q Applications
Authors: Chaturvedi Bhartendu , Maheshwari Sudhanshu
Published: March 2015

The paper presents new single active element based second order band pass filters. The new circuits use single dual-X current conveyor with buffered output and five passive components. The proposed circuits enjoy the features of high input impedance and low output impedance, which are desirable features for voltage-mode circuits. Circuit operation at high frequencies are verified along with non-ideality and parasitic study. The Monte Carlo analysis is also done which justify good sensitivity performances of the proposed circuits. Routh–Hurwitz's stability test is performed to verify the stability of the proposed circuits. For showing the integration aspect, resistorless band-pass filters are also realized. The proposed low-Q filters are useful for cascading. The feature of cascadability is further utilized by showing an application of fourth-order band-pass filter. The performances of the proposed circuits are depicted through Personal Simulation Program with Integrated Circuit Emphasis (PSPICE) simulations, which show good agreement to theoretical applications. The new circuits are expected to enhance the already existing knowledge on the subject.
Equivalence of rational links and 2-bridge links revisited
Authors: Toro Margarita
Published: March 2015

In this paper we give a simple proof of the equivalence between the rational link associated to the continued fraction [a1, a2,…,am], ai ∈ ℕ, and the 2-bridge link of type p/q, where p/q is the rational number given by [a1, a2,…,am]. The known proof of this equivalence relies on the 2-fold cover of a link and the classification of the lens spaces. Our proof is elementary and combinatorial and follows the naïve approach of finding a set of movements to transform the rational link given by [a1, a2,…,am] into the 2-bridge link of type p/q.
Layout of new experiments on the observation of spontaneous electron–positron pair creation in supercritical Coulomb fields
Authors: Ter-Akopian G. M. , Greiner W. , Meshkov I. N. , Oganessian Y. T. , Reinhardt J. , Trubnikov G. V.
Published: March 2015

Collisions of bare heavy nuclei implemented by means of merging-beam technique are suggested for the study of remarkable phenomena appearing in very strong fields created when distance between the nuclear surfaces approaches zero. Suggested here is to build a collider with two beams of actinide nuclei merging within a common straight section. Principal parameters of this collider are outlined.
Predicting seismicity trend in southwest of China based on wavelet analysis
Authors: Li Xiaolu , Zheng Wenfeng , Wang Dan , Yin Lirong , Wang Yali
Published: March 2015

The earthquake shows certain characteristics of periodicity or quasi-periodicity, which has been constantly proved by facts and these characteristics have been widely used in analyzing the trend of the seismic activities. On the basis of wavelet analysis, the seismic data in southwest from 1900 to 2013 was analyzed and the features on different time scales were studied. Moreover, an analysis of the future seismic trend was conducted by using wavelet coefficients on all scales and the main period of seismic activities.
Empirical evaluation of EZW and other encoding techniques in the wavelet-based image compression domain
Authors: Suruliandi A. , Raja S. P.
Published: March 2015

This paper discusses about embedded zerotree wavelet (EZW) and other wavelet-based encoding techniques employed in lossy image compression. The objective of this paper is two fold. Primarily wavelet-based encoding techniques such as EZW, set partitioning in hierarchical trees (SPIHT), wavelet difference reduction (WDR), adaptively scanned wavelet difference reduction (ASWDR), set partitioned embedded block (SPECK), compression with reversible embedded wavelet (CREW) and space frequency quantization (SFQ) are implemented and their performance is analyzed. Second, wavelet-based compression schemes such as Haar, Daubechies and Biorthogonal are used to evaluate the performance of encoding techniques. The performance parameters such as peak signal-to-noise ratio (PSNR) and mean square error (MSE) are used for evaluation purpose. From the results it is observed that the performance of SPIHT encoding technique is providing better results when compared to other encoding schemes.
Four-dimensional pseudo-Riemannian homogeneous Ricci solitons
Authors: Calvaruso Giovanni , Fino Anna
Published: March 2015

We consider four-dimensional homogeneous pseudo-Riemannian manifolds with non-trivial isotropy and completely classify the cases giving rise to non-trivial homogeneous Ricci solitons. In particular, we show the existence of non-compact homogeneous (and also invariant) pseudo-Riemannian Ricci solitons which are not isometric to solvmanifolds, and of conformally flat homogeneous pseudo-Riemannian Ricci solitons which are not symmetric.
Boundary effects in bosonic and fermionic field theories
Authors: Asorey M. , García-Alvarez D. , Muñoz-Castañeda J. M.
Published: March 2015

The dynamics of quantum field theories on bounded domains requires the introduction of boundary conditions on the quantum fields. We address the problem from a very general perspective by using charge conservation as a fundamental principle for scalar and fermionic quantum field theories. Unitarity arises as a consequence of the choice of charge preserving boundary conditions. This provides a powerful framework for the analysis of global geometrical and topological properties of the space of physical boundary conditions. Boundary conditions which allow the existence of edge states can only arise in theories with a mass gap which is also a physical requirement for topological insulators.
Electrochemistry and spectroelectrochemistry of β-pyrazino-fused tetraarylporphyrins in nonaqueous media
Authors: Fang Yuanyuan , Mandoj Federica , Zeng Lihan , Pudi Rajesh , Stefanelli Manuela , Paolesse Roberto , Kadish Karl M.
Published: March 2015

Bis-porphyrins containing a β,β′-fused pyrazino (Pz) linking group were examined by electrochemistry and thin-layer UV-visible spectroelectrochemistry in PhCN containing 0.1 M tetra-n-butylammonium perchlorate (TBAP) as supporting electrolyte. The investigated compounds are represented as M(TPP)-Pz-(TPP)M, where TPP is the dianion of tetraphenylporphyrin and M = Zn(II) , Cu(II) or Ag(II) . The effect of the linking Pz group on the redox potentials and UV-visible spectra of the neutral, electroreduced and electrooxidized bis-porphyrins is discussed and the data compared to what is observed for related monoporphyrins and earlier characterized bis-porphyrins containing a tetraazaanthracene (TA) linking group and the same central metal ions. The Cu(II) and Zn(II) Pz linked bis-porphyrins exhibit a relatively strong interaction between the two equivalent porphyrin macrocycles as evidenced by UV-visible spectra of the neutral compounds and characteristic splitting of redox processes for three of the four electron transfer reactions, the one exception being the first oxidation, where no splitting of potentials is observed in the formation of the bisporphyrin bis-cation radical, [M(TPP)-Pz-(TPP)M]2+. The first oxidation and first reduction of the bis-porphyrin with two Ag(II) central metal ions occurs via two overlapping one-electron transfer steps in each process indicating equivalent, but non-interacting redox centers. This difference in redox behavior is due to differences in the site of electron transfer, metal centered for the Ag(II) bisporphyrins, which undergo Ag(II) / Ag(III) and Ag(II) / Ag(I) processes as compared to only ring centered electron transfers for the Cu(II) and Zn(II) derivatives. The Pz-linked Zn(II) bis-porphyrins have a larger average HOMO–LUMO gap (2.01 V) as compared to related tetraazaanthracene linked bis-porphyrins (1.67 V), which were earlier characterized in the literature, but the gap is smaller than that for the mono-porphyrins with the same central metal ions (2.17 V). Each redox reaction of the investigated bisporphyrins was characterized by thin-layer spectroelectrochemistry.
Nanoscale Drug Delivery Systems: A Current Review on the Promising Paclitaxel Formulations for Future Cancer Therapy
Authors: Fang Ru , Yang Shaozong , Wang Yanbin , Qian Hua
Published: March 2015

Paclitaxel (PTX) is usual for the treatment of a variety of malignancies, however, its applications are greatly limited due to its poor water solubility. Over the past years, there has been a considerable research interest in the area of nanoscale drug delivery systems (DDSs) as carrier for PTX due to their solubilization, safety, targeting and controlled release. There are many different types and shapes of nanoscale DDSs that have been prepared to deliver PTX, including nanoliposome, lipid nanoemulsion, nanosuspension, nanocapsule, nanofiber, nanotube, nanopolymersome, micelle and nanoparticle (NP). Nanoscale DDSs can be based on lipids, proteins, polysaccharides, polymers or other materials. The recent strategic developments of PTX formulation have been discussed with emphasis on lipid-, polymer- and protein-based nanoscale DDSs. Here we focus on the comparative analysis of the preparation, morphology, solubilization, targeting, penetrability, controllability and efficacy profile of various PTX-loaded nanoscale DDSs, which were reported in the different researches. Meanwhile the advantages and disadvantages are also discussed for each type of DDS. Furthermore, the current review embodies an in-depth discussion of human serum albumin (HSA) NP formulation, which showed significantly great efficacy and low toxicity. All the information obtained in this review might shed light on designing new and better nanoscale PTX formulations for potential anticancer applications in the clinic.
Mathematical analysis of Phan-Thien–Tanner fluid model for blood in arteries
Authors: Akbar Noreen Sher , Nadeem S.
Published: March 2015

In the present paper, we have studied the blood flow through tapered artery with a stenosis. The non-Newtonian nature of blood in small arteries is analyzed mathematically by considering the blood as Phan-Thien–Tanner fluid. The representation for the blood flow is through an axially non-symmetrical but radially symmetric stenosis. Symmetry of the distribution of the wall shearing stress and resistive impedance and their growth with the developing stenosis is another important feature of our analysis. Exact solutions have been evaluated for velocity, resistance impedance, wall shear stress and shearing stress at the stenosis throat. The graphical results of different type of tapered arteries (i.e. converging tapering, diverging tapering, non-tapered artery) have been examined for different parameters of interest.
Direct observation of magnetic exchange-spring development in epitaxial DyFe2/YFe2 superlattices by magneto-optical Kerr effect
Authors: Wang Ke , Xiang Yang , Chen Chuanwen , Zhuang Fengjiang , Wu Xuefeng , Ward Roger
Published: March 2015

The magnetic reversal properties of molecular beam epitaxy (MBE) grown Laves phase single crystal YFe 2-dominated DYFe 2/ YFe 2 superlattices were investigated using magneto-optical Kerr effect (MOKE) measurements. Single crystal DYFe 2/ YFe 2 superlattices with a thickness ratio of 1:4 were MBE-grown with a (110) growth direction. In the epitaxial superlattices, the development of exchange-spring structure during magnetic reversal is revealed by both magneto-optical reflectivity and Kerr rotation angle loops. The bending fields of the samples are found to be close due to nonideal anisotropy in both hard and soft layers. For the sample with thin soft/hard layers, large magneto-optical reflectivity change up to 0.25% was observed. This can be related with rotation of Fe spins in YFe 2 soft layers under a low pinning field, in consistence with the small switching field of thin DYFe 2 hard layers measured experimentally.
Silicon quantum dots embedded in amorphous SiC matrix for third-generation solar cells: Microstructure control by RF discharge power
Authors: Cheng Qijin , Levchenko Igor , Song Denyuan , Xu Shuyan , Ostrikov Kostya Ken
Published: March 2015

A low-frequency (460 kHz), low-pressure, thermally non-equilibrium, high-density inductively coupled plasma (ICP) has been used to synthesize a novel, advanced photovoltaic material suitable for fabrication of third-generation solar cells. Silicon quantum dots (SQDs) embedded in an amorphous silicon carbide matrix were prepared at a very low substrate temperature of approximately 200°C without any hydrogen dilution. The effect of the radio-frequency (RF) power of the plasma discharge on the morphology and structure of the embedded quantum dots was studied. A brief discussion on the possible mechanisms of the quantum dot formation in the ICP is presented. This study is relevant to third-generation photovoltaic solar cells.
New insights into the genesis of the Miocene collapse structures of the island of Gozo (Malta, central Mediterranean Sea)
Authors: Galve J. P. , Tonelli C. , Gutiérrez F. , Lugli S. , Vescogni A. , Soldati M.
Published: March 2015

The large palaeosinkholes located in the NW of Gozo (central Mediterranean Sea, Malta) offer excellent exposures that provide information on the geometry and kinematics of large karst-related collapse structures. Detailed geological analysis of these peculiar palaeosinkholes indicates that deep-seated evaporite dissolution is the most feasible hypothesis to explain their formation, according to the following evidence. (1) Several structures have been formed by progressive foundering of cylindrical blocks with limited internal deformation as revealed by the synsedimentary subsidence recorded by their Miocene sedimentary fill. This subsidence mechanism is more compatible with interstratal dissolution of evaporites than karstification and cave development in limestone formations. (2) The dimensions and deformation style of the palaeosinkholes are similar to those of other collapse structures related to deep-seated dissolution of salt-bearing evaporites. (3) The arcuate monocline associated with some of these collapse structures is also a characteristic feature of subsidence related to dissolution of evaporites. However, no major evaporite formations have been documented so far in the subsurface of the Malta Platform.

Supplementary material:

Detailed descriptions of the collapse structures of the island of Gozo (Malta, central Mediterranean Sea) are available at
www.geolsoc.org.uk/SUP18808
.
Predicting subseismic fracture density and orientation in the Gorm Field, Danish North Sea
Authors: Freeman Brett , Quinn David J. , Dillon Cathal G. , Arnhild Michael , Jaarsma Bastiaan
Published: March 2015

The chalk reservoir of the Gorm Field, southern North Sea is dome-shaped and faulted owing to a combination of salt diapirism and regional east–west extension. Fractures developed in the structure considerably enhance permeability. The dataset discussed here records fractures in horizontal wells from more than 10 km of image logs and provides a special opportunity to test theoretical models of fracture development with quantitative observations. In an effort to forecast fracture density and fracture orientation, we have estimated the strains in the structure using an elastic dislocation model that incorporates mechanical boundaries in the form of the tectono-stratigraphic interface with salt and tectonic faults. More than 50% of the angular differences between poles to the planes of simulated and observed fractures are less than 30°; 75% are less than 45°. Relative strain magnitude appears to be a useful indicator of fracture density. At the field scale, small strain magnitudes correspond with small non-zero fracture densities and relatively large strain magnitudes correspond with high fracture densities.
Dysregulation of skeletal muscle protein metabolism by alcohol
Authors: Steiner Jennifer L. , Lang Charles H.
Published: March 2015

Alcohol abuse, either by acute intoxication or prolonged excessive consumption, leads to pathological changes in many organs and tissues including skeletal muscle. As muscle protein serves not only a contractile function but also as a metabolic reserve for amino acids, which are used to support the energy needs of other tissues, its content is tightly regulated and dynamic. This review focuses on the etiology by which alcohol perturbs skeletal muscle protein balance and thereby over time produces muscle wasting and weakness. The preponderance of data suggest that alcohol primarily impairs global protein synthesis, under basal conditions as well as in response to several anabolic stimuli including growth factors, nutrients, and muscle contraction. This inhibitory effect of alcohol is mediated, at least in part, by a reduction in mTOR kinase activity via a mechanism that remains poorly defined but likely involves altered protein-protein interactions within mTOR complex 1. Furthermore, alcohol can exacerbate the decrement in mTOR and/or muscle protein synthesis present in other catabolic states. In contrast, alcohol-induced changes in muscle protein degradation, either global or via specific modulation of the ubiquitin-proteasome or autophagy pathways, are relatively inconsistent and may be model dependent. Herein, changes produced by acute intoxication versus chronic ingestion are contrasted in relation to skeletal muscle metabolism, and limitations as well as opportunities for future research are discussed. As the proportion of more economically developed countries ages and chronic illness becomes more prevalent, a better understanding of the etiology of biomedical consequences of alcohol use disorders is warranted.
Simultaneous recording of fluorescence and electrical signals by photometric patch electrode in deep brain regions in vivo
Authors: Hirai Yasuharu , Nishino Eri , Ohmori Harunori
Published: March 2015

Despite its widespread use, high-resolution imaging with multiphoton microscopy to record neuronal signals in vivo is limited to the surface of brain tissue because of limited light penetration. Moreover, most imaging studies do not simultaneously record electrical neural activity, which is, however, crucial to understanding brain function. Accordingly, we developed a photometric patch electrode (PME) to overcome the depth limitation of optical measurements and also enable the simultaneous recording of neural electrical responses in deep brain regions. The PME recoding system uses a patch electrode to excite a fluorescent dye and to measure the fluorescence signal as a light guide, to record electrical signal, and to apply chemicals to the recorded cells locally. The optical signal was analyzed by either a spectrometer of high light sensitivity or a photomultiplier tube depending on the kinetics of the responses. We used the PME in Oregon Green BAPTA-1 AM-loaded avian auditory nuclei in vivo to monitor calcium signals and electrical responses. We demonstrated distinct response patterns in three different nuclei of the ascending auditory pathway. On acoustic stimulation, a robust calcium fluorescence response occurred in auditory cortex (field L) neurons that outlasted the electrical response. In the auditory midbrain (inferior colliculus), both responses were transient. In the brain-stem cochlear nucleus magnocellularis, calcium response seemed to be effectively suppressed by the activity of metabotropic glutamate receptors. In conclusion, the PME provides a powerful tool to study brain function in vivo at a tissue depth inaccessible to conventional imaging devices.
Changes in motor unit behavior following isometric fatigue of the first dorsal interosseous muscle
Authors: McManus Lara , Hu Xiaogang , Rymer William Z. , Lowery Madeleine M. , Suresh Nina L.
Published: March 2015

The neuromuscular strategies employed to compensate for fatigue-induced muscle force deficits are not clearly understood. This study utilizes surface electromyography (sEMG) together with recordings of a population of individual motor unit action potentials (MUAPs) to investigate potential compensatory alterations in motor unit (MU) behavior immediately following a sustained fatiguing contraction and after a recovery period. EMG activity was recorded during abduction of the first dorsal interosseous in 12 subjects at 20% maximum voluntary contraction (MVC), before and directly after a 30% MVC fatiguing contraction to task failure, with additional 20% MVC contractions following a 10-min rest. The amplitude, duration and mean firing rate (MFR) of MUAPs extracted with a sEMG decomposition system were analyzed, together with sEMG root-mean-square (RMS) amplitude and median frequency (MPF). MUAP duration and amplitude increased immediately postfatigue and were correlated with changes to sEMG MPF and RMS, respectively. After 10 min, MUAP duration and sEMG MPF recovered to prefatigue values but MUAP amplitude and sEMG RMS remained elevated. MU MFR and recruitment thresholds decreased postfatigue and recovered following rest. The increase in MUAP and sEMG amplitude likely reflects recruitment of larger MUs, while recruitment compression is an additional compensatory strategy directly postfatigue. Recovery of MU MFR in parallel with MUAP duration suggests a possible role for metabolically sensitive afferents in MFR depression postfatigue. This study provides insight into fatigue-induced neuromuscular changes by examining the properties of a large population of concurrently recorded single MUs and outlines possible compensatory strategies involving alterations in MU recruitment and MFR.
The C957T polymorphism in the dopamine receptor D2 gene modulates domain-general category learning
Authors: Xie Zilong , Maddox W. Todd , McGeary John E. , Chandrasekaran Bharath
Published: March 2015

Adaptive learning from reward and punishment is vital for human survival. Striatal and frontal dopaminergic activities are associated with adaptive learning. For example, the C957T single nucleotide polymorphism of the dopamine receptor D2 ( DRD2) gene alters striatal D2 receptor availability and affects individuals' adaptive learning ability. Specifically, individuals with the T/T genotype, which is associated with higher striatal D2 availability, show enhanced learning from negative outcomes. Prior work examining DRD2 genetic variability has focused primarily on frontally mediated reflective learning that is under effortful, conscious control. However, less is known about a more automatic, striatally mediated reflexive learning. Here we examined the extent to which this polymorphism differentially influences reflective and reflexive learning across visual and auditory modalities. We employed rule-based (RB) and information-integration (II) category learning paradigms that target reflective and reflexive learning, respectively. Results revealed an advantage in II category learning but poorer RB category learning in T/T homozygotes. The pattern of results was consistent across sensory modalities. These findings suggest that this DRD2 polymorphism exerts opposite influences on domain-general frontally mediated reflective learning and striatally mediated reflexive learning.
Chagas Parasite Detection in Blood Images Using AdaBoost
Authors: Uc-Cetina Víctor , Brito-Loeza Carlos , Ruiz-Piña Hugo
Published: March 2015

The Chagas disease is a potentially life-threatening illness caused by the protozoan parasite,Trypanosoma cruzi.Visual detection of such parasite through microscopic inspection is a tedious and time-consuming task. In this paper, we provide an AdaBoost learning solution to the task of Chagas parasite detection in blood images. We give details of the algorithm and our experimental setup. With this method, we get 100% and 93.25% of sensitivity and specificity, respectively. A ROC comparison with the method most commonly used for the detection of malaria parasites based on support vector machines (SVM) is also provided. Our experimental work shows mainly two things: (1) Chagas parasites can be detected automatically using machine learning methods with high accuracy and (2) AdaBoost + SVM provides better overall detection performance than AdaBoost or SVMs alone. Such results are the best ones known so far for the problem of automatic detection of Chagas parasites through the use of machine learning, computer vision, and image processing methods.
Noninterventional Study of Transdermal Fentanyl (Fentavera) Matrix Patches in Chronic Pain Patients: Analgesic and Quality of Life Effects
Authors: Heim Manuel
Published: March 2015

Fentanyl is considered to be an effective, transdermal treatment of chronic, cancer, and noncancer pain. This noninterventional, clinical practice-based study, on 426 patients attending 42 practices, assessed a proprietary, Aloe vera-containing, transdermal fentanyl matrix patch (Fentavera), for its analgesic effects, patients’ quality of life (QoL) effects, tolerability, and adhesiveness. Study outcomes were mean changes from baseline of patient (11-point scales) and physician (5-point scales) ratings. After 1 and 2 months treatment, there were significant (P<0.0001) decreases in patients’ ratings of pain intensity, and impairment of walking, general activity, sleep quality, and QoL. For each parameter, the patient response rate was >30% at 2 months (response = 2-point decrease on 11-point rating scale). In a large majority of patients, the physicians rated the matrix patch as good or very good for analgesic effect, systemic and local tolerance, and adhesiveness. There were 30 adverse events in 4.2% of patients and analgesic comedications were reduced during treatment compared to before treatment. It is concluded, from this population-based data, that the proprietary, transdermal fentanyl matrix patch is effective and safe for chronic pain management in clinical practice, with significant positive analgesic and QoL effects, while being well tolerated and exhibiting good or very good adhesiveness.
Genome-Wide Expression of MicroRNAs Is Regulated by DNA Methylation in Hepatocarcinogenesis
Authors: Shen Jing , Wang Shuang , Siegel Abby B. , Remotti Helen , Wang Qiao , Sirosh Iryna , Santella Regina M.
Published: March 2015

Background.Previous studies, including ours, have examined the regulation of microRNAs (miRNAs) by DNA methylation, but whether this regulation occurs at a genome-wide level in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is unclear.Subjects/Methods.Using a two-phase study design, we conducted genome-wide screening for DNA methylation and miRNA expression to explore the potential role of methylation alterations in miRNAs regulation.Results.We found that expressions of 25 miRNAs were statistically significantly different between tumor and nontumor tissues and perfectly differentiated HCC tumor from nontumor. Six miRNAs were overexpressed, and 19 were repressed in tumors. Among 133 miRNAs with inverse correlations between methylation and expression, 8 miRNAs (6%) showed statistically significant differences in expression between tumor and nontumor tissues. Six miRNAs were validated in 56 additional paired HCC tissues, and significant inverse correlations were observed for miR-125b and miR-199a, which is consistent with the inactive chromatin pattern found in HepG2 cells.Conclusion.These data suggest that the expressions of miR-125b and miR-199a are dramatically regulated by DNA hypermethylation that plays a key role in hepatocarcinogenesis.
Nitrooleic Acid Protects against Cisplatin Nephropathy: Role of COX‐2/mPGES‐1/PGE2 Cascade
Authors: Wang Haiping , Jia Zhanjun , Sun Jing , Xu Liang , Zhao Bing , Yu Kezhou , Yang Meng , Yang Tianxin , Wang Rong
Published: March 2015

Nitrooleic acid (OA‐NO2) is an endogenous lipid product which has novel signaling properties, particularly the activation of peroxisome proliferator‐activated receptors. The current study aimed to evaluate the protective effects of OA‐NO2 against cisplatin‐induced kidney injury in mice. Mice were pretreated with OA‐NO2 for 48 h before cisplatin administration, and the cisplatin‐caused nephrotoxicity was evaluated. After the cisplatin treatment (72 h), the vehicle‐treated mice displayed renal dysfunction, as evidenced by the elevated plasma urea and creatinine, which was consistent with the histological damage, such as tubular necrosis, dilation, protein cast, and desquamation of epithelial cells. In contrast, the severity of the renal dysfunction and histological change were reduced in the OA‐NO2 pretreated mice. The renal COX‐2 and mPGES‐1 mRNAs and their respective proteins expression, together with the renal PGE2 amounts, were induced by the cisplatin treatment, but their initiation was reduced by OA‐NO2. Moreover, the circulating TNF‐α, renal TNF‐α, IL‐1β, MCP‐1, ICAM‐1, and VACAM‐1 mRNA levels were higher in the cisplatin‐treated mice, compared with the controls, but they were attenuated in the OA‐NO2 pretreatment group. In summary, the pretreatment with OA‐NO2 remarkably ameliorated the cisplatin‐induced kidney injury in mice, possibly via the inhibition of the inflammatory response, associated with the COX‐2/mPGES‐1/PGE2 cascade.
Depression and the Overall Burden of Painful Joints: An Examination among Individuals Undergoing Hip and Knee Replacement for Osteoarthritis
Authors: Gandhi Rajiv , Zywiel Michael G. , Mahomed Nizar N. , Perruccio Anthony V.
Published: March 2015

The majority of patients with hip or knee osteoarthritis (OA) report one or more symptomatic joints apart from the one targeted for surgical care. Therefore, the purpose of the present study was to investigate the association between the burden of multiple symptomatic joints and self-reported depression in patients awaiting joint replacement for OA. Four hundred and seventy-five patients at a single centre were evaluated. Patients self-reported joints that were painful and/or symptomatic most days of the previous month on a homunculus, with nearly one-third of the sample reporting 6 or more painful joints. The prevalence of depression was 12.2% (58/475). When adjusted for age, sex, education level, hip or knee OA, body mass index, chronic condition count, and joint-specific WOMAC scores, each additional symptomatic joint was associated with a 19% increased odds (odds ratio: 1.19 (95% CI: 1.08, 1.31, P<0.01)) of self-reported depression. Individuals reporting 6 or more painful joints had 2.5-fold or greater odds of depression when compared to those patients whose symptoms were limited to the surgical joint. A focus on the surgical joint alone is likely to miss a potentially important determinant of postsurgical patient-reported outcomes in patients undergoing hip or knee replacement.
Serum Cholesterol Reduction Efficacy of Biscuits with Added Plant Stanol Ester
Authors: Kriengsinyos Wantanee , Wangtong Ajima , Komindr Surat
Published: March 2015

This study’s aim was to test the low-density lipoprotein cholesterol- (LDL-c-) lowering efficacy of biscuits containing 2 g of plant stanols, which corresponded to 3.4 g of plant stanol esters. The biscuit is a new food format that can be consumed as a snack. In a double-blind, placebo-controlled parallel design study, 119 mildly to moderately hypercholesterolemic volunteers were randomized to plant stanol or control groups. Subjects were comparable in age, gender, lipid profiles, and body mass index. They consumed a control biscuit once a day for a two-week period, followed by a four-week intervention period that either had a plant stanol ester biscuit or a control. During the habitual diet, one biscuit per day was consumed at any time that subjects wished. Serum lipid profiles were measured at the first day of run-in, at baseline, and at the study’s end. Compared to the control, the total cholesterol (TC), LDL-c, and the LDL-to-high-density lipoprotein (LDL/HDL) ratio had serum reductions of 4.9%, 6.1%, and 4.3%, respectively, and were observed after 4 weeks of biscuit consumption with added plant stanols (P < 0.05). A significantly higher reduction in LDL-c (8.9%) and LDL/HDL ratio (11.4%) was measured in those taking a plant stanol biscuit with a meal compared to those who consumed a plant stanol biscuit without other food. In conclusion, incorporating plant stanols into a biscuit is an attractive, convenient, and acceptable way to modestly lower elevated cholesterol concentrations. For optimal efficacy, biscuits should be consumed with a meal as part of a healthy diet.
Physiological Responses of Kosteletzkya virginica to Coastal Wetland Soil
Authors: Wang Hongyan , Tang Xiaoli , Wang Honglei , Shao Hongbo
Published: March 2015

Effects of salinity on growth and physiological indices of Kosteletzkya virginica seedlings were studied. Plant height, fresh weight (FW), dry weight (DW), and net photosynthetic rate (Pn) increased at 100 mM NaCl and slightly declined at 200 mM, but higher salinity induced a significant reduction. Chlorophyll content, stomatal conductance (Gs), intercellular CO2 concentration (Ci), and transpiration rate (E) were not affected under moderate salinities, while markedly decreased at severe salinities except for the increased Ci at 400 mM NaCl. Furthermore, no significant differences of Fv/Fm and ΦPSII were found at lower than 200 mM NaCl, whereas higher salinity caused the declines of Fv/Fm, ΦPSII, and qP similar to Pn, accompanied with higher NPQ. Besides, salt stress reduced the leaf RWC, but caused the accumulation of proline to alleviate osmotic pressure. The increased activities of antioxidant enzymes maintained the normal levels of MDA and relative membrane permeability. To sum up, Kosteletzkya virginica seedlings have good salt tolerance and this may be partly attributed to its osmotic regulation and antioxidant capacity which help to maintain water balance and normal ROS level to ensure the efficient photosynthesis. These results provided important implications for Kosteletzkya virginica acting as a promising multiuse species for reclaiming coastal soil.
A Novel Directionlet-Based Image Denoising Method Using MMSE Estimator and Laplacian Mixture Distribution
Authors: Lu Yixiang , Gao Qingwei , Sun Dong , Zhang Dexiang , Xia Yi , Wang Hui
Published: March 2015

A novel method based on directionlet transform is proposed for image denoising under Bayesian framework. In order to achieve noise removal, the directionlet coefficients of the uncorrupted image are modeled independently and identically by a two-state Laplacian mixture model with zero mean. The expectation-maximization algorithm is used to estimate the parameters that characterize the assumed prior model. Within the framework of Bayesian theory, the directionlet coefficients of noise-free image are estimated by a nonlinear shrinkage function based on weighted average of the minimum mean square error estimator. We demonstrate through simulations with images contaminated by additive white Gaussian noise that the proposed method is very competitive when compared with other methods in terms of both peak signal-to-noise ratio and visual quality.
Development and Evaluation of Nanoemulsifying Preconcentrate of Curcumin for Colon Delivery
Authors: Wadhwa Jyoti , Asthana Abhay , Shilakari Gyati , Chopra Arun Kumar , Singh Ranjit
Published: March 2015

The present study aimed to develop and optimize a nanoemulsifying preconcentrate formulation of curcumin with good emulsification ability and optimal globule size, for controlled targeting in colon. Content of formulation variables, namely, X1 (Peceol), X2 (Cremophor‐EL), and X3 (Transcutol HP), were optimized by Box‐Behnken design of experiments for its impact on mean globule size (Y1), emulsification time (Y2), and time required for drug release (85%) in phosphate buffer (pH 7.2), t85% (Y3). Transmission electron micrographs confirmed that there is no coalescence among globules, with size range concordant with the globule size analysis by dynamic light scattering technique (100 nm). 3D plots indicated that concentration of formulation ingredients significantly influences the formulation properties (globule size, emulsification time, and drug release). In vitro release profile (in phosphate buffer; pH 7.2) represents the fact that more than 50% of the drug was released within initial 15 min whereas in vivo release showed limited systemic absorption (Cmax 200 ng/mL) of curcumin. Stability study ensures the protection of drug in alkaline media which may further confirm the localised delivery of drug to colonic region. Study demonstrated that the nanoemulsifying preconcentrate can be a promising system for the colon specific delivery of curcumin to treat local pathologies.
Laser Micromachining of Glass, Silicon, and Ceramics
Authors: Rihakova L. , Chmelickova H.
Published: March 2015

A brief review is focused on laser micromachining of materials. Micromachining of materials is highly widespread method used in many industries, including semiconductors, electronic, medical, and automotive industries, communication, and aerospace. This method is a promising tool for material processing with micron and submicron resolution. In this paper micromachining of glass, silicon, and ceramics is considered. Interaction of these materials with laser radiation and recent research held on laser material treatment is provided.
Oxidative Stress to the Cornea, Changes in Corneal Optical Properties, and Advances in Treatment of Corneal Oxidative Injuries
Authors: Cejka Cestmir , Cejkova Jitka
Published: March 2015

Oxidative stress is involved in many ocular diseases and injuries. The imbalance between oxidants and antioxidants in favour of oxidants (oxidative stress) leads to the damage and may be highly involved in ocular aging processes. The anterior eye segment and mainly the cornea are directly exposed to noxae of external environment, such as air pollution, radiation, cigarette smoke, vapors or gases from household cleaning products, chemical burns from splashes of industrial chemicals, and danger from potential oxidative damage evoked by them. Oxidative stress may initiate or develop ocular injury resulting in decreased visual acuity or even vision loss. The role of oxidative stress in the pathogenesis of ocular diseases with particular attention to oxidative stress in the cornea and changes in corneal optical properties are discussed. Advances in the treatment of corneal oxidative injuries or diseases are shown.
Eigenvalues for a Neumann Boundary Problem Involving thep(x)-Laplacian
Authors: Miao Qing
Published: March 2015

We study the existence of weak solutions to the following Neumann problem involving thep(x)-Laplacian operator:  -Δp(x)u+e(x)|u|p(x)-2u=λa(x)f(u),in  Ω,∂u/∂ν=0,on  ∂Ω. Under some appropriate conditions on the functionsp,  e,  a, and  f, we prove that there existsλ¯>0such that anyλ∈(0,λ¯)is an eigenvalue of the above problem. Our analysis mainly relies on variational arguments based on Ekeland’s variational principle.
Factors Influencing the Eicosanoids SynthesisIn Vivo
Authors: Szefel Jarosław , Kruszewski Wiesław Janusz , Sobczak Ewa
Published: March 2015

External factors activate a sequence of reactions involving the reception, transduction, and transmission of signals to effector cells. There are two main phases of the body’s reaction to harmful factors: the first aims to neutralize the harmful factor, while in the second the inflammatory process is reduced in size and resolved. Secondary messengers such as eicosanoids are active in both phases. The discovery of lipoxins and epi-lipoxins demonstrated that not all arachidonic acid (AA) derivatives have proinflammatory activity. It was also revealed that metabolites of eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) such as resolvins, protectins, and maresins also take part in the resolution of inflammation. Knowledge of the above properties has stimulated several clinical trials on the influence of EPA and DHA supplementation on various diseases. However, the equivocal results of those trials prevent the formulation of guidelines on EPA and DHA supplementation. Prescription drugs are among the substances with the strongest influence on the profile and quantity of the synthesized eicosanoids. The lack of knowledge about their influence on the conversion of EPA and DHA into eicosanoids may lead to erroneous conclusions from clinical trials.
Acute Aortic Occlusion Presenting as Flaccid Paraplegia
Authors: Kilany Ayman , Al-Hashel Jasem Y. , Rady Azza
Published: March 2015

A 67-year-old male known to be hypertensive and diabetic had a sudden onset of severe low back pain and flaccid paraplegia with no sensory level or bladder affection and the distal pulsations were felt. Acute compressive myelopathy was excluded by MRI of the dorsal and lumbar spines. The nerve conduction study and CSF analysis was suggestive of acute demyelinating polyneuropathy. The patient developed ischemic changes of the lower limb and CT angiography revealed severe stenosis of the abdominal aorta and both common iliac arteries. We emphasize the importance of including acute aortic occlusion in the differential diagnosis of acute flaccid paraplegia especially in the presence of severe back pain even if the distal pulsations were felt.
Huaier Cream Protects against Adriamycin-Induced Nephropathy by Restoring Mitochondrial Function via PGC-1αUpregulation
Authors: Che Ruochen , Zhu Chunhua , Ding Guixia , Zhao Min , Bai Mi , Jia Zhanjun , Zhang Aihua , Huang Songming
Published: March 2015

The mechanism by which Huaier, a Chinese traditional medicine, protects podocytes remains unclear. We designed the present study to examine whether mitochondrial function restored by PGC-1αserves as the major target of Huaier cream in protecting ADR nephropathy. After ADR administration, the podocytes exhibited remarkable cell injury and mitochondrial dysfunction. Additionally, ADR also reduced PGC-1αbothin vivoandin vitro. Following the Huaier treatment, the notable downregulation of PGC-1αand its downstream molecule mitochondrial transcription factor A (TFAM) were almost entirely blocked. Correspondingly, Huaier markedly ameliorated ADR-induced podocyte injury and mitochondrial dysfunction in both rat kidneys and incubated cells as it inhibited the decrease of nephrin and podocin expression, mtDNA copy number, MMP, and ATP content. Transmission electron microscopy result also showed that Huaier protected mitochondria against ADR-induced severe mitophagy and abnormal changes of ultrastructural morphology. In conclusion, Huaier can protect podocytes against ADR-induced cytotoxicity possibly by reversing the dysfunction of mitochondria via PGC-1αoverexpression, which may be a novel therapeutic drug target in glomerular diseases.
Feasibility of Bioelectrical Impedance Spectroscopy Measurement before and after Thoracentesis
Authors: Zink Matthias Daniel , Weyer Sören , Pauly Karolin , Napp Andreas , Dreher Michael , Leonhardt Steffen , Marx Nikolaus , Schauerte Patrick , Mischke Karl
Published: March 2015

Background.Bioelectrical impedance spectroscopy is applied to measure changes in tissue composition. The aim of this study was to evaluate its feasibility in measuring the fluid shift after thoracentesis in patients with pleural effusion.Methods.45 participants (21 with pleural effusion and 24 healthy subjects) were included. Bioelectrical impedance was analyzed for “Transthoracic,” “Foot to Foot,” “Foot to Hand,” and “Hand to Hand” vectors in low and high frequency domain before and after thoracentesis. Healthy subjects were measured at a single time point.Results.The mean volume of removed pleural effusion was1169±513 mL. The “Foot to Foot,” “Hand to Hand,” and “Foot to Hand” vector indicated a trend for increased bioelectrical impedance after thoracentesis. Values for the low frequency domain in the “Transthoracic” vector increased significantly (P<0.001). A moderate correlation was observed between the amount of removed fluid and impedance change in the low frequency domain using the “Foot to Hand” vector (r=-0.7).Conclusion.Bioelectrical impedance changes in correlation with the thoracic fluid level. It was feasible to monitor significant fluid shifts and loss after thoracentesis in the “Transthoracic” vector by means of bioelectrical impedance spectroscopy. The trial is registered with Registration Numbers IRB EK206/11 andNCT01778270.
Effect of pH and Monomer Dosing Rate in the Anionic Polymerization of Ethyl Cyanoacrylate in Semicontinuous Operation
Authors: Saade Hened , Torres Suleidi , Barrera Cynthia , Sánchez Julieta , Garza Yolanda , López Raúl G.
Published: March 2015

Nanoparticles of poly(ethyl cyanoacrylate) with more than 10% solids content were prepared by semicontinuous heterophase polymerization at monomer-starved conditions varying the initial pH in the interval of 1–1.75 and at two monomer dosing rates. Measurements by scanning-transmission electron microscopy allowed us to identify an inverse dependence of particle size on pH. Furthermore, all the polymerizations conducted at the slower monomer dosing rate rendered two particle populations, with the larger one formed from the aggregation of a fraction of the smaller particles. It was believed that the so slow addition of the monomer caused the formation of very small but instable particles, thereby a fraction of which aggregated to reduce the total interface particles-aqueous phase, increasing the latex stability. An increase in the monomer dosing rate led to larger and more stable particles in such way that only one population of nanoparticles with around 40 nm in average diameter was obtained.