bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Matched Longitudinal Analysis of Biomarkers Associated with Survival
Authors: Dodd Lori E. , Johnson Reed F. , Blaney Joseph E. , Follmann Dean
Published: June 2014

The identification of host or pathogen factors linked to clinical outcome is a common goal in many animal studies of infectious diseases. When the disease is fatal, statistical analysis of such factors may be biased from missing observations due to deaths. For example, when observations of a subject are censored before completing the intended study period, the complete trajectory will not be observed. Even if the factor is not associated with outcome, comparisons of data from survivors with those from nonsurvivors may lead to the wrong conclusions regarding associations with survival. Comparisons between subjects must account for differing observation lengths for those who survive relative to those who do not. Analyzing data over an interval common to all subjects provides one solution but requires eliminating data, some of which may be informative about the differences between groups. Here, we present a novel approach, matched longitudinal analysis (MLA), for analyzing such data based on matching biomarker intervals for survivors and nonsurvivors. We describe the results from simulation studies and from a study of monkeypox virus infection in nonhuman primates. In our application, MLA identified low monocyte chemoattractant protein-1 (MCP-1) levels as having a statistically significant association with survival, whereas the alternative methods did not identify an association. The method has general application to longitudinal studies that seek to find associations of biomarker changes with survival.
An H7N1 Influenza Virus Vaccine Induces Broadly Reactive Antibody Responses against H7N9 in Humans
Authors: Krammer Florian , Jul-Larsen Åsne , Margine Irina , Hirsh Ariana , Sjursen Haakon , Zambon Maria , Cox Rebecca J.
Published: June 2014

Emerging H7N9 influenza virus infections in Asia have once more spurred the development of effective prepandemic H7 vaccines. However, many vaccines based on avian influenza viruses—including H7—are poorly immunogenic, as measured by traditional correlates of protection. Here we reevaluated sera from an H7N1 human vaccine trial performed in 2006. We examined cross-reactive antibody responses to divergent H7 strains, including H7N9, dissected the antibody response into head- and stalk-reactive antibodies, and tested thein vivopotency of these human sera in a passive-transfer H7N9 challenge experiment with mice. Although only a low percentage of vaccinees induced neutralizing antibody responses against the homologous vaccine strain and also H7N9, we detected strong cross-reactivity to divergent H7 hemagglutinins (HAs) in a large proportion of the cohort with a quantitative enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Furthermore, H7N1 vaccination induced antibodies to both the head and stalk domains of the HA, which is in sharp contrast to seasonal inactivated vaccines. Finally, we were able to show that both neutralizing and nonneutralizing antibodies improvedin vivovirus clearance in a passive-transfer H7N9 challenge mouse model.
All-in-One Bacmids: an Efficient Reverse Genetics Strategy for Influenza A Virus Vaccines
Authors: Chen Hongjun , Angel Matthew , Li Weizhong , Finch Courtney , Gonzalez Ana Silvia , Sutton Troy , Santos Jefferson , Perez Daniel R.
Published: June 2014

Vaccination is the first line of defense against influenza virus infection, yet influenza vaccine production methods are slow, antiquated, and expensive as a means to effectively reduce the virus burden during epidemic or pandemic periods. There is a great need for alternative influenza vaccines and vaccination methods with a global scale of impact. We demonstrate here a strategy to generate influenza A virus
in vivo
by using bacmid DNAs. Compared to the classical reverse genetics system, the “eight-in-one” bacmids (bcmd-RGFlu) showed higher efficiency of virus rescue in various cell types. Using a transfection-based inoculation (TBI) system, intranasal delivery to DBA/2J and BALB/c mice of bcmd-RGFlu plus 293T cells led to the generation of lethal PR8 virus
in vivo
. A prime-boost intranasal vaccination strategy using TBI in the context of a bcmd-RGFlu carrying a temperature-sensitive H1N1 virus resulted in protection of mice against lethal challenge with the PR8 strain. Taken together, these studies provide proof of principle to highlight the potential of vaccination against influenza virus by using
in vivo
reverse genetics.

IMPORTANCE
Vaccination is the first line of defense against influenza virus infections. A major drawback in the preparation of influenza vaccines is that production relies on a heavily time-consuming process of growing the viruses in eggs. We propose a radical change in the way influenza vaccination is approached, in which a recombinant bacmid, a shuttle vector that can be propagated in both
Escherichia coli
and insect cells, carries an influenza virus infectious clone (bcmd-RGFlu). Using a surrogate cell system, we found that intranasal delivery of bcmd-RGFlu resulted in generation of influenza virus in mice. Furthermore, mice vaccinated with this system were protected against lethal influenza virus challenge. The study serves as a proof of principle of a potentially universal vaccine platform against influenza virus and other pathogens.
Evidence of Extensive DNA Transfer between
Bacteroidales
Species within the Human Gut
Authors: Coyne Michael J. , Zitomersky Naamah Levy , McGuire Abigail Manson , Earl Ashlee M. , Comstock Laurie E.
Published: June 2014

The genome sequences of intestinal
Bacteroidales
strains reveal evidence of extensive horizontal gene transfer.
In vitro
studies of
Bacteroides
and other bacteria have addressed mechanisms of conjugative transfer and some phenotypic outcomes of these DNA acquisitions in the recipient, such as the acquisition of antibiotic resistance. However, few studies have addressed the horizontal transfer of genetic elements between bacterial species coresident in natural microbial communities, especially microbial ecosystems of humans. Here, we examine the genomes of
Bacteroidales
species from two human adults to identify genetic elements that were likely transferred among these
Bacteroidales
while they were coresident in the intestine. Using seven coresident
Bacteroidales
species from one individual and eight from another, we identified five large chromosomal regions, each present in a minimum of three of the coresident strains at near 100% DNA identity. These five regions are not found in any other sequenced
Bacteroidetes
genome at this level of identity and are likely all integrative conjugative elements (ICEs). Such highly similar and unique regions occur in only 0.4% of phylogenetically representative mock communities, providing strong evidence that these five regions were transferred between coresident strains in these subjects. In addition to the requisite proteins necessary for transfer, these elements encode proteins predicted to increase fitness, including orphan DNA methylases that may alter gene expression, fimbriae synthesis proteins that may facilitate attachment and the utilization of new substrates, putative secreted antimicrobial molecules, and a predicted type VI secretion system (T6SS), which may confer a competitive ecological advantage to these strains in their complex microbial ecosystem.

IMPORTANCE
By analyzing
Bacteroidales
strains coresident in the gut microbiota of two human adults, we provide strong evidence for extensive interspecies and interfamily transfer of integrative conjugative elements within the intestinal microbiota of individual humans. In the recipient strain, we show that the conjugative elements themselves can be modified by the transposition of insertion sequences and retroelements from the recipient’s genome, with subsequent transfer of these modified elements to other members of the microbiota. These data suggest that the genomes of our gut bacteria are substantially modified by other, coresident members of the ecosystem, resulting in highly personalized
Bacteroidales
strains likely unique to that individual. The genetic content of these ICEs suggests that their transfer from successful adapted members of an ecosystem confers beneficial properties to the recipient, increasing its fitness and allowing it to better compete within its particular personalized gut microbial ecosystem.
Motion Patterns in Acupuncture Needle Manipulation
Authors: Seo Yoonjeong , Lee In-Seon , Jung Won-Mo , Ryu Ho-Sun , Lim Jinwoong , Ryu Yeon-Hee , Kang Jung-Won , Chae Younbyoung
Published: June 2014

Background

In clinical practice, acupuncture manipulation is highly individualised for each practitioner. Before we establish a standard for acupuncture manipulation, it is important to understand completely the manifestations of acupuncture manipulation in the actual clinic. To examine motion patterns during acupuncture manipulation, we generated a fitted model of practitioners’ motion patterns and evaluated their consistencies in acupuncture manipulation.

Methods

Using a motion sensor, we obtained real-time motion data from eight experienced practitioners while they conducted acupuncture manipulation using their own techniques. We calculated the average amplitude and duration of a sampled motion unit for each practitioner and, after normalisation, we generated a true regression curve of motion patterns for each practitioner using a generalised additive mixed modelling (GAMM).

Results

We observed significant differences in rotation amplitude and duration in motion samples among practitioners. GAMM showed marked variations in average regression curves of motion patterns among practitioners but there was strong consistency in motion parameters for individual practitioners. The fitted regression model showed that the true regression curve accounted for an average of 50.2% of variance in the motion pattern for each practitioner.

Conclusions

Our findings suggest that there is great inter-individual variability between practitioners, but remarkable intra-individual consistency within each practitioner.
Current practice of venous thromboembolism prevention in acute trusts: a qualitative study
Authors: McFarland L , Murray E , Harrison S , Heneghan C , Ward A , Fitzmaurice D , Greenfield S
Published: June 2014

Objective

To explore the current practice of venous thromboembolism (VTE) prevention in acute trusts.

Design

A qualitative research design was used to explore the perceived current practice of thromboprophylaxis, and knowledge and experience of VTE prevention. Data were collected via interviews with personnel from acute trusts and other relevant organisations and charities. Constant comparison was used to generate themes grounded in the data.

Setting

The UK.

Participants

17 participants, sampled due to their expertise and knowledge in the field of VTE, were interviewed for the study.

Results

No one felt directly responsible for VTE risk assessment and treatment in acute trusts. There were concerns whether any action takes place based on the risk assessment. Low levels of VTE knowledge existed throughout the system.

Conclusions

Our study highlights the importance of continuous training to prevent VTE risk assessment being considered a tick box exercise and for clinicians to understand the significance of the procedure to ensure that VTE preventative measures are administered. It is essential that acute trust staff acknowledge that VTE prevention is the responsibility of everyone involved in a patient's care. Concerns remain around prophylaxis treatment, administration and contraindications.
Reliability of demographic and socioeconomic variables in predicting early initiation of breastfeeding: a replication analysis using the Kenya Demographic and Health Survey data
Authors: Matanda Dennis J , Mittelmark Maurice B , Urke Helga B , Amugsi Dickson A
Published: June 2014

Objectives

Examine the reliability of sociodemographic variables in predicting initiation of breastfeeding within an hour of birth (EarlyBF), using data from 1998, 2003 and 2008–2009.

Study design

A replication analysis using the Kenya Demographic and Health Survey (KDHS) data collected in 1998, 2003 and 2008–2009. The candidate predictor variables were child's gender, home or health facility place of birth, vaginal or caesarean mode of birth, urban or rural setting, province of residence, Wealth Index and maternal education, occupation, literacy and media exposure.

Setting

Kenya.

Participants

6375 dyads of mothers aged 15–49 and their children aged 0–23 months (2125 dyads in each of the survey years).

Results

Mode of birth and province were statistically significant predictors of EarlyBF in 1998, 2003 and 2008–2009. Children delivered through caesarean section were non-EarlyBF in 1998 (OR 2.63, 95% CI 1.72 to 4.04), 2003 (OR 3.36, 95% CI 1.83 to 6.16) and 2008 (OR 3.51, 95% CI 2.17 to 5.69). The same was true of those living in the Western province in 1998 (OR 2.67, 95% CI 1.61 to 4.43), 2003 (OR 4.92, 95% CI 3.01 to 8.04) and 2008 (OR 6.07, 95% CI 3.54 to 10.39).

Conclusions

The 1998 KDHS data do not provide the basis for reliable prediction of EarlyBF, with reliability conceptualised as replicability of findings using highly similar data sets from 2003 and 2008–2009. Most of the demographic and socioeconomic variables were unreliable predictors of EarlyBF. We speculate that activities in parts or all of Kenya changed the analysis context in the period between 1998 and 2008–2009, and these changes were of a sufficient magnitude to affect the relationships under investigation. The degree to which this is a general problem in child health research is not known, calling for further research to investigate this methodological issue with other health end points and other data.
The effect on physical performance of a functional assessment and immediate rehabilitation of acutely admitted elderly patients with reduced functional performance: the design of a randomised clinical trial
Authors: Bruun Inge Hansen , Nørgaard Birgitte , Maribo Thomas , Schiøttz-Christensen Berit , Mogensen Christian Backer
Published: June 2014

Introduction

Illness and hospitalisation, even of short duration, pose separate risks for permanently reduced functional performance in elderly medical patients. Functional assessment in the acute pathway will ensure early detection of declining performance and form the basis for mobilisation during hospitalisation and subsequent rehabilitation. For optimal results rehabilitation should begin immediately after discharge.The aim of this study is to investigate the effect of a systematic functional assessment in the emergency department (ED) of elderly medical patients with reduced functional performance when combined with immediate postdischarge rehabilitation.

Method and analysis

The study is a two-way factorial randomised clinical trial. Participants will be recruited among patients admitted to the ED who are above 65 years of age with reduced functional performance. Patients will be randomly assigned to one of four groups: (1) functional assessment and immediate rehabilitation; (2) functional assessment and rehabilitation as usual; (3) assessment as usual and immediate rehabilitation; (4) assessment and rehabilitation as usual.

Primary outcome

30 s chair-stand test administered at admission and 3 weeks after discharge.

Ethics and dissemination

The study has been approved by the Regional Scientific Ethical Committees of Southern Denmark in February 2014. The study findings will be published in peer-reviewed journals and presented at national and international conferences.

Trial registration number:

ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier:NCT02062541.
Use of a rotary battery‐powered device for the collection of bone marrow in dogs and cats
Authors: Tappin S. W. , Lorek A. , Villiers E. J.
Published: June 2014

Bone marrow biopsies form an important part of investigations into a large number of conditions in veterinary patients. In the human field, powered drivers specifically designed for the collection of bone marrow have become available. These systems have been shown to obtain better quality bone marrow, more quickly and with less pain. This study showed that a powered rotary bone marrow collection system could be used in dogs and cats to collect bone marrow, easily and without complications. Good quality bone marrow aspirates were obtained in the majority of patients; where aspirates could not be collected it was not possible to obtain aspirates from alternative sites using a standard manual technique. Bone marrow core samples were of increased size (mean useable area 16.5 mm2), compared to samples obtained using a standard manual technique (mean useable area 4.1 mm2, P<0.001). Samples obtained using the powered system were also judged to be of significantly better diagnostic quality. The use of a powered system for bone marrow collection may aid the collection of better quality bone marrow samples in small animal patients.
Quantum chemical study on the atmospheric photooxidation of ethyl acetate
Authors: Zhao Yan , Sun Xiaomin , Wang Wenxing , Xu Laixiang
Published: June 2014

The mechanism for OH radical initiated atmospheric photoxidation reaction of ethyl acetate was carried out by using the density functional theory method. Geometries have been optimized at the B3LYP level with a standard 6-31G(d,p) basis set. The single-point energy calculations have been performed at the MP2/6-31G(d), MP2/6-311++G(d,p), and CCSD(T)/6-31G(d) levels, respectively. All of the possible degradation channels involved in the oxidation of ethyl acetate by OH radicals have been presented and discussed. Among the five possible hydrogen abstraction pathways of the reaction of ethyl acetate with OH radicals, the hydrogen abstractions from the C1–H3 and C2–H5 bonds are the dominant reaction pathways due to the low potential barriers and strong exothermicity. The β-ester rearrangement of IM6 is energetically favorable but is not expected to be important. The α-ester rearrangement reaction and O2 direct abstraction from IM17 are the more favorable pathways and are strongly competitive. In addition, the α-ester rearrangement reaction is confirmed to be a one-step process. Acetic acid, formic acetic anhydride, acetoxyacetaldehyde, and acetic anhydride are the main products for the reaction of ethyl acetate with OH radicals.
The Feynman problem and fermionic entanglement: Fermionic theory versus qubit theory
Authors: D'Ariano Giacomo Mauro , Manessi Franco , Perinotti Paolo , Tosini Alessandro
Published: June 2014

The present paper is both a review on the Feynman problem, and an original research presentation on the relations between Fermionic theories and qubits theories, both regarded in the novel framework of operational probabilistic theories. The most relevant results about the Feynman problem of simulating Fermions with qubits are reviewed, and in the light of the new original results, the problem is solved. The answer is twofold. On the computational side, the two theories are equivalent, as shown by Bravyi and Kitaev [S. B. Bravyi and A. Y. Kitaev, Ann. Phys. 298, 210 (2002)]. On the operational side, the quantum theory of qubits and the quantum theory of Fermions are different, mostly in the notion of locality, with striking consequences on entanglement. Thus the emulation does not respect locality, as it was suspected by Feynman [R. Feynman, Int. J. Theor. Phys. 21, 467 (1982)].
A COMPARATIVE STUDY OF SOFTWARE FILTERS APPLIED AS A PREVIOUS STEP OF THE ICP ALGORITHM IN ROBOT LOCATION
Authors: HIDALGO-PANIAGUA ALEJANDRO , VEGA-RODRÍGUEZ MIGUEL A. , PAVÓN NIEVES , FERRUZ JOAQUÍN
Published: June 2014

In the field of robotics, one of the essential tasks for a robot to accomplish its goals is to know its own location. The localization problem is a complex task and, usually, different systems, methods and sensors are needed to achieve it. One of these methods is the iterative closest points (ICP) algorithm. The main problem that ICP presents is its high computational time. Due to this, it is common to filter its input data before calculating the final transformation. In this paper, a comparative study in terms of precision and execution time among the most popular filters used in combination with the ICP is presented. The study indicates that the scale-invariant feature transform (SIFT) is the filter that better improves the execution time, while its combination with the RANdom SAmple Consensus (RANSAC) obtains better precision results.
SELF-CONSIST CHARGING PROCESS OF POLYMER IRRADIATED BY INTERMEDIATE-ENERGY ELECTRON BEAM
Authors: LIU JING , ZHANG HAI-BO
Published: June 2014

This paper reports on the electron scattering, charge transport and charge trapping of a polymer subjected to intermediate-energy electron beam in a self-consist charging model. Numerical simulation of a charging balance is performed using incident intermediate-energy electron current and leakage current, and the space charging characteristics are examined. The mechanisms involve various microscopic parameters that are related to the space potential and the characteristics of the polymer as well as to the effects of the space charge, electron charge, hole charge and trapped charge itself. The dynamic transporting and trapping properties of a polymer are investigated, and the space potential is evaluated using various parameters of irradiation. Trapping of electrons is determined using Poole–Frenkel trapping–detrapping mechanisms. Various types of space charging behavior are observed by controlling irradiation conditions. Furthermore, the peak location of space charge is simulated and validated by Sessler's experimental data in microscopic perspective.
An investigation into eukaryotic pseudouridine synthases
Authors: King Ross D. , Lu Chuan
Published: June 2014

A common post-transcriptional modification of RNA is the conversion of uridine to its isomer pseudouridine. We investigated the biological significance of eukaryotic pseudouridine synthases using the yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae. We conducted a comprehensive statistical analysis on growth data from automated perturbation (gene deletion) experiments, and used bi-logistic curve analysis to characterise the yeast phenotypes. The deletant strains displayed different alteration in growth properties, including in some cases enhanced growth and/or biphasic growth curves not seen in wild-type strains under matched conditions. These results demonstrate that disrupting pseudouridine synthases can have a significant qualitative effect on growth. We further investigated the significance of post-transcriptional pseudouridine modification through investigation of the scientific literature. We found that (1) In Toxoplasma gondii, a pseudouridine synthase gene is critical in cellular differentiation between the two asexual forms: Tachyzoites and bradyzoites; (2) Mutation of pseudouridine synthase genes has also been implicated in human diseases (mitochondrial myopathy and sideroblastic anemia (MLASA); dyskeratosis congenita). Taken together, these results are consistent with pseudouridine synthases having a Gene Ontology function of "biological regulation".
PRECURSORS-DECOMPOSITED SYNTHESIS AND VISIBLE-LIGHT-RESPONSE PHOTOCATALYSTIC PROPERTIES OF UNIFORM POROUS Bi2O3 NANOSPHERES
Authors: SUN XIAOLI , SHI WEIDONG , TU HAO , XU LEILEI , YAN YAN , GUAN JIANGGUO
Published: June 2014

The Bi 2 O 3 sphere-like precursors were first synthesized through a simple hydrothermal reaction in the mixture of sodium cholate (SC) and hydrogen peroxide. Thermal decomposition of these precursors would result in the formation of the uniform porous Bi 2 O 3 nanospheres with diameters of ca. 80 nm in air at 500°C. The amount of added H 2 O 2 and the reaction time were found to play important roles in the formation of Bi 2 O 3 sphere-like precursors. The as-prepared porous Bi 2 O 3 nanospheres exhibited a very excellent photocatalytic activity for the degradation of rhodamine B (RB) and methyl blue (MB) dyes under visible-light irradiation, which could be attributed to their narrow band gap and high surface area.
A corrector–predictor path-following algorithm for semidefinite optimization
Authors: Kheirfam Behrouz
Published: June 2014

A corrector–predictor algorithm is proposed for solving semidefinite optimization problems. In each two steps, the algorithm uses the Nesterov–Todd directions. The algorithm produces a sequence of iterates in a neighborhood of the central path based on a new proximity measure. The predictor step uses line search schemes requiring the reduction of the duality gap, while the corrector step is used to restore the iterates to the neighborhood of the central path. Finally, the algorithm has [Formula: see text] iteration complexity.
On a nonlocal problem for mixed parabolic–hyperbolic type equation with nonsmooth line of type changing
Authors: Karimov E. T. , Rakhmatullaeva N. A.
Published: June 2014

In this paper, we investigate a boundary problem with nonlocal conditions for mixed parabolic–hyperbolic type equation with three lines of type changing. Considered domain contains a rectangle as a parabolic part and three domains bounded by smooth curves and type-changing lines as a hyperbolic part of the mixed domain. Applying method of energy integrals we prove the uniqueness of the solution for the considered problem. The proof of the existence will be done by reducing the original problem into the system of the second kind Volterra integral equations.
Copper, Zn and Pb soil geochemistry data from the NE domain of the Iberian Pyrite Belt in Portugal: implications for mineral exploration
Authors: Luz F. , Mateus A. , Matos J.X. , Gonçalves M.A.
Published: June 2014

The area-concentration multifractal modelling of a soil geochemical survey performed in the Alfarrobeira–Chança region (covering the Pulo do Lobo Terrane, PLT, and the Iberian Pyrite Belt, IPB) shows that the upper limit of Cu, Zn and Pb background concentrations in soils over PLT metasediments are
c
. 20, 55 and 20–30 ppm, respectively. In soils derived from the Volcano-Sedimentary Complex of IPB, the Cu, Zn and Pb regional threshold values are within the 25–45, 40–60 and 20–90 ppm intervals, respectively.

The lower limit of Cu, Zn and Pb soil anomalies overlying metasediments are within the 30–50, 90–115 and 45–60 ppm intervals, respectively; over soils with abundant volcanic-derived components those lower limits are scattered in the 30–70, 70–90 and 33–100 ppm intervals. Proximity to mineralized rocks is indicated by Cu, Pb and Zn soil contents above
c
. 100, 120–150 and 250 ppm, respectively. Most of the anomalies display strong anisotropy.

Separation of Cu, Zn and Pb soil anomalies reflects mostly the existence of distinct metal sources related to original compositional differences or to chemical changes developed during Variscan times. Metavolcanics represent the prevailing sources of Cu and, to a lesser extent, Pb; the prevalent sources of Zn are metasediments of the Phyllite-Quartzite (IPB) and Chança (PLT) Groups.
Specific inhibition of HDAC4 in cardiac progenitor cells enhances myocardial repairs
Authors: Zhang Ling X. , DeNicola Megan , Qin Xin , Du Jianfeng , Ma Julio , Tina Zhao Yu , Zhuang Shougang , Liu Paul Y. , Wei Lei , Qin Gangjian , Tang Yaoliang , Zhao Ting C.
Published: June 2014

We have recently shown that in vivo inhibition of histone deacetylase (HDAC) stimulates endogenous myocardial regeneration in infarcted hearts (Zhang L et al. J Pharmacol Exp Ther 341: 285–293, 2012). Furthermore, our observation demonstrates that HDAC inhibition promotes cardiogenesis, which is associated with HDAC4 reduction. However, it remains unknown as to whether specific inhibition of HDAC4 modulates cardiac stem cells (CSCs) to facilitate myocardial repair and to preserve cardiac performance. c-kit+ CSCs were isolated from adult mouse hearts and were transfected with HDAC4 siRNA to knockdown HDAC4 of c-kit+ CSCs. The transfection of HDAC4 siRNA caused a marked reduction of HDAC4 mRNA and proteins in c-kit+ CSCs. Mouse myocardial infarction (MI) was created to assess the effect of HDAC4 inhibition in c-kit+ CSCs on myocardial regeneration in vivo when cells were introduced into MI hearts. Transplantation of HDAC4 siRNA-treated c-kit+ CSCs into MI hearts improved ventricular function, attenuated ventricular remodeling, and promoted CSC-derived regeneration and neovascularization. Furthermore, Ki67 and BrdU positively proliferative myocytes increased in MI hearts receiving HDAC4 siRNA-treated c-kit+ CSCs compared with MI hearts engrafted with control siRNA-treated c-kit+ CSCs. In addition, compared with MI hearts engrafted with control adenoviral GFP-infected c-kit+ CSCs, MI hearts receiving adenoviral HDAC4-infected c-kit+ CSCs exhibited attenuated cardiac functional recovery, CSC-derived regeneration, and neovascularization, which was accompanied with adverse ventricular remodeling and decrease in Ki67 and BrdU positively proliferative myocytes. HDAC4 inhibition facilitated c-kit+ CSCs into the differentiation into cardiac lineage commitments in vitro, while HDAC4 overexpression attenuated c-kit+ CSC-derived cardiogenesis. Our results indicate that HDAC4 inhibition promotes CSC-derived cardiac regeneration and improves the restoration of cardiac function.
Differential regulation of circadian melatonin rhythm and sleep-wake cycle by bright lights and nonphotic time cues in humans
Authors: Yamanaka Yujiro , Hashimoto Satoko , Masubuchi Satoru , Natsubori Akiyo , Nishide Shin-ya , Honma Sato , Honma Ken-ichi
Published: June 2014

Our previous study demonstrated that physical exercise under dim lights (<10 lux) accelerated reentrainment of the sleep-wake cycle but not the circadian melatonin rhythm to an 8-h phase-advanced sleep schedule, indicating differential effects of physical exercise on the human circadian system. The present study examined the effects of bright light (>5,000 lux) on exercise-induced acceleration of reentrainment because timed bright lights are known to reset the circadian pacemaker. Fifteen male subjects spent 12 days in temporal isolation. The sleep schedule was advanced from habitual sleep times by 8 h for 4 days, which was followed by a free-run session. In the shift session, bright lights were given during the waking time. Subjects in the exercise group performed 2-h bicycle running twice a day. Subjects in the control kept quiet. As a result, the sleep-wake cycle was fully entrained by the shift schedule in both groups. Bright light may strengthen the resetting potency of the shift schedule. By contrast, the circadian melatonin rhythm was phase-advanced by 6.9 h on average in the exercise group but only by 2.0 h in the control. Thus physical exercise prevented otherwise unavoidable internal desynchronization. Polysomnographical analyses revealed that deterioration of sleep quality by shift schedule was protected by physical exercise under bright lights. These findings indicate differential regulation of sleep-wake cycle and circadian melatonin rhythm by physical exercise in humans. The melatonin rhythm is regulated primarily by bright lights, whereas the sleep-wake cycle is by nonphotic time cues, such as physical exercise and shift schedule.
Hindbrain nucleus tractus solitarius glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor signaling reduces appetitive and motivational aspects of feeding
Authors: Alhadeff Amber L. , Grill Harvey J.
Published: June 2014

Central glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor (GLP-1R) signaling reduces food intake by affecting a variety of neural processes, including those mediating satiation, motivation, and reward. While the literature suggests that separable neurons and circuits control these processes, this notion has not been adequately investigated. The intake inhibitory effects of GLP-1R signaling in the hindbrain medial nucleus tractus solitarius (mNTS) have been attributed to interactions with vagally transmitted gastrointestinal satiation signals that are also processed by these neurons. Here, behavioral and pharmacological techniques are used to test the novel hypothesis that the reduction of food intake following mNTS GLP-1R stimulation also results from effects on food-motivated appetitive behaviors. Results show that mNTS GLP-1R activation by microinjection of exendin-4, a long-acting GLP-1R agonist, reduced 1) intake of a palatable high-fat diet, 2) operant responding for sucrose under a progressive ratio schedule of reinforcement and 3) the expression of a conditioned place preference for a palatable food. Together, these data demonstrate that the intake inhibitory effects of mNTS GLP-1R signaling extend beyond satiation and include effects on food reward and motivation that are typically ascribed to midbrain and forebrain neurons.
Sex-dependent hypertension and renal changes in aged rats with altered renal development
Authors: Saez Fara , Reverte Virginia , Paliege Alexander , Moreno Juan Manuel , Llinás María T. , Bachmann Sebastian , Salazar F. Javier
Published: June 2014

Numerous studies have evaluated blood pressure (BP) and renal changes in several models of developmental programming of hypertension. The present study examined to what extent BP, renal hemodynamic, and renal structure are affected at an old age in male and female animals with altered renal development. It also evaluated whether renal damage is associated with changes in cyclooxygenase (COX)-2 and neuronal nitric oxide synthase (NOS1) expression and immunoreactivity. Experiments were carried out in rats at 10–11 and 16–17 mo of age treated with vehicle or an ANG II type 1 receptor antagonist during the nephrogenic period (ARAnp). A progressive increment in BP and a deterioration of renal hemodynamics were found in both sexes of ARAnp-treated rats, with these changes being greater ( P < 0.05) in male rats. The decrease in glomerular filtration rate at the oldest age was greater ( P < 0.05) in male (74%) than female (32%) ARAnp-treated rats. Sex-dependent deterioration of renal structure was demonstrated in optical and electron microscopic experiments. COX-2 and NOS1 immunoreactivity were enhanced in the macula densa of male but not female ARAnp-treated rats. The present study reports novel findings suggesting that stimuli that induce a decrease of ANG II effects during renal development lead to a progressive increment in BP and renal damage at an old age in both sexes, but these BP and renal changes are greater in males than in females. The renal damage is associated with an increase of COX-2 and NOS1 in the macula densa of males but not females with altered renal development.
Reduced chemical and electrical connections of fast-spiking interneurons in experimental cortical dysplasia
Authors: Zhou Fu-Wen , Roper Steven N.
Published: June 2014

Aberrant neural connections are regarded as a principal factor contributing to epileptogenesis. This study examined chemical and electrical connections between fast-spiking (FS), parvalbumin (PV)-immunoreactive (FS-PV) interneurons and regular-spiking (RS) neurons (pyramidal neurons or spiny stellate neurons) in a rat model of prenatal irradiation-induced cortical dysplasia. Presynaptic action potentials were evoked by current injection and the elicited unitary inhibitory or excitatory postsynaptic potentials (uIPSPs or uEPSPs) were recorded in the postsynaptic cell. In dysplastic cortex, connection rates between presynaptic FS-PV interneurons and postsynaptic RS neurons and FS-PV interneurons, and uIPSP amplitudes were significantly smaller than controls, but both failure rates and coefficient of variation of uIPSP amplitudes were larger than controls. In contrast, connection rates from RS neurons to FS-PV interneurons and uEPSPs amplitude were similar in the two groups. Assessment of the paired pulse ratio showed a significant decrease in synaptic release probability at FS-PV interneuronal terminals, and the density of terminal boutons on axons of biocytin-filled FS-PV interneurons was also decreased, suggesting presynaptic dysfunction in chemical synapses formed by FS-PV interneurons. Electrical connections were observed between FS-PV interneurons, and the connection rates and coupling coefficients were smaller in dysplastic cortex than controls. In dysplastic cortex, we found a reduced synaptic efficiency for uIPSPs originating from FS-PV interneurons regardless of the type of target cell, and impaired electrical connections between FS-PV interneurons. This expands our understanding of the fundamental impairment of inhibition in this model and may have relevance for certain types of human cortical dysplasia.
Investigation of the juxtamembrane region of neuronal-Synaptobrevin in synaptic transmission at theDrosophilaneuromuscular junction
Authors: DeMill Colin M. , Qiu Xinping , Kisiel Marta , Bolotta Alanna , Stewart Bryan A.
Published: June 2014

In this study, the juxtamembrane region of the Drosophila SNARE protein neuronal-Synaptobrevin (n-Syb) was tested for its role in synaptic transmission. A transgenic approach was used to express n-Syb mutant genes. The transgenes carried engineered point mutations that alter the amino acid sequence of the conserved tryptophan residues in the juxtamembrane sequence. Such transgenes were expressed in an n-syb hypomorphic background, which produces little endogenous protein. On their own, hypomorphic flies displayed severe motor inhibition, limited life span, reduced evoked junctional potentials (EJPs), decreased synchronicity in EJP time to peak, and potentiation of EJPs with 10-Hz stimulation. All of these deficits were restored to wild-type levels with the expression of wild-type transgenic n-syb, regulated by the endogenous promoter ( n-sybWT). We created transgenic mutants with one additional tryptophan ( n-sybWW) or one less tryptophan ( n-sybAA) than the wild-type sequence. While n-sybWWresembled n-sybWTin all variables listed, n-sybAAexhibited decreased EJP amplitude, synchronicity, and quantal content. To determine whether the n-syb juxtamembrane region is important for transduction of force arising from SNARE complex assembly during membrane fusion, we introduced short 6-amino acid ( n-sybL6) or long 24-amino acid ( n-sybL24) flexible linkers into the n-syb transgene. We observed a reduced EJP amplitude in n-sybL6but not n-sybL24, while both linker mutants showed a decreased quantal content and an effect on the readily releasable and recycling vesicle pools. In conclusion, mutation of the juxtamembrane region of n-syb deleteriously affected synaptic transmission at the Drosophila neuromuscular junction.
Organization of pontine reticulospinal inputs to motoneurons controlling axial and limb muscles in the neonatal mouse
Authors: Sivertsen Magne S. , Glover Joel C. , Perreault Marie-Claude
Published: June 2014

Using optical recording of synaptically mediated calcium transients and selective spinal lesions, we investigated the pattern of activation of spinal motoneurons (MNs) by the pontine reticulospinal projection in isolated brain stem-spinal cord preparations from the neonatal mouse. Stimulation sites throughout the region where the pontine reticulospinal neurons reside reliably activated MNs at cervical, thoracic, and lumbar levels. Activation was similar in MNs ipsi- and contralateral to the stimulation site, similar in medial and lateral motor columns that contain trunk and limb MNs, respectively, and similar in the L2 and L5 segments that predominantly contain flexor and extensor MNs, respectively. In nonlesioned preparations, responses in both ipsi- and contralateral MNs followed individual stimuli in stimulus trains nearly one-to-one (with few failures). After unilateral hemisection at C1 on the same side as the stimulation, responses had substantially smaller magnitudes and longer latencies and no longer followed individual stimuli. After unilateral hemisection at C1 on the side opposite to the stimulation, the responses were also smaller, but their latencies were not affected. Thus we distinguish two pontine reticulospinal pathways to spinal MNs, one uncrossed and the other crossed, of which the uncrossed pathway transmits more faithfully and appears to be more direct.
Synthesis of ZnO Nanowires via Hotwire Thermal Evaporation of Brass (CuZn) Assisted by Vapor Phase Transport of Methanol
Authors: Thandavan Tamil Many K. , Abdul Gani Siti Meriam , Wong Chiow San , Md Nor Roslan
Published: June 2014

Zinc oxide (ZnO) nanowires (NWs) were synthesized using vapor phase transport (VPT) and thermal evaporation of Zn from CuZn. Time dependence of ZnO NWs growth was investigated for 5, 10, 15, 20, 25, and 30 minutes. Significant changes were observed from the field electron scanning electron microscopy (FESEM) images as well as from the X‐ray diffraction (XRD) profile. The photoluminescence (PL) profile was attributed to the contribution of oxygen vacancy, zinc interstitials, and hydrogen defects in the ZnO NWs. Raman scattering results show a significant peak at 143 cm−1 and possible functionalization on the wall of ZnO NWs. Growth of ZnO NWs in (0002) with an estimated distance between adjacent lattice planes 0.26 nm was determined from transmission electron microscopy (TEM) analysis.
A Periodic Solution of the Generalized Forced Liénard Equation
Authors: Goodarzi Zahra , Razani Abdolrahman
Published: June 2014

We consider the generalized forced Liénard equation as follows:(ϕp(x′))′+(f(x)+k(x)x′)x′+g(x)=p(t)+s. By applying Schauder's fixed point theorem, the existence of at least one periodic solution of this equation is proved.
Efficient Simulation Budget Allocation for Ranking the TopmDesigns
Authors: Xiao Hui , Lee Loo Hay
Published: June 2014

We consider the problem of ranking the topmdesigns out ofkalternatives. Using the optimal computing budget allocation framework, we formulate this problem as that of maximizing the probability of correctly ranking the topmdesigns subject to the constraint of a fixed limited simulation budget. We derive the convergence rate of the false ranking probability based on the large deviation theory. The asymptotically optimal allocation rule is obtained by maximizing this convergence rate function. To implement the simulation budget allocation rule, we suggest a heuristic sequential algorithm. Numerical experiments are conducted to compare the effectiveness of the proposed simulation budget allocation rule. The numerical results indicate that the proposed asymptotically optimal allocation rule performs the best comparing with other allocation rules.
Time Slots Allocating and Multicycle Scheduling in IWSN for Narrow Process Automation
Authors: Xu Honghua , Liu Ke , Guan Xinping
Published: June 2014

Industrial wireless sensor networks (IWSNs) have become a viable solution for diverse application. However, commercial products and real-world deployments of IWSNs are faced with harsh reliability, real time, and predictability issues. The problem is more challenging in the narrow process industry. A novel two-tier wireless network consisting of subnetworks (FNs) and a backbone (BN) in the field is proposed in this paper. Along exploring time and frequency diversity, we present an optional polling slots allocation method in the FN to maximize communication reliability and integrity. Since time slots are scarce in the communication network for narrow process, we design a slot-reuse strategy with time slots consumption of [Formula: see text] to construct a N-hop multipath BN without violating industrial standard. Furthermore, a multicycle scheduling strategy for polling and convergecast is presented to reduce the workload over the BN. Performance analysis and simulations show that our solution outperforms traditional ones in terms of communication reliability and integrity.
Spectral Relaxation Method and Spectral Quasilinearization Method for Solving Unsteady Boundary Layer Flow Problems
Authors: Motsa S. S. , Dlamini P. G. , Khumalo M.
Published: June 2014

Nonlinear partial differential equations (PDEs) modelling unsteady boundary-layer flows are solved by the spectral relaxation method (SRM) and the spectral quasilinearization method (SQLM). The SRM and SQLM are Chebyshev pseudospectral based methods that have been successfully used to solve nonlinear boundary layer flow problems described by systems of ordinary differential equations. In this paper application of these methods is extended, for the first time, to systems of nonlinear PDEs that model unsteady boundary layer flow. The new extension is tested on two problems: boundary layer flow caused by an impulsively stretching plate and a coupled four-equation system that models the problem of unsteady MHD flow and mass transfer in a porous space. Numerous simulation experiments are conducted to determine the accuracy and compare the computational performance of the proposed methods against the popular Keller-box finite difference scheme which is widely accepted as being one of the ideal tools for solving nonlinear PDEs that model boundary layer flow problems. The results indicate that the methods are more efficient in terms of computational accuracy and speed compared with the Keller-box.
Circulant Type Matrices with the Sum and Product of Fibonacci and Lucas Numbers
Authors: Jiang Zhaolin , Gong Yanpeng , Gao Yun
Published: June 2014

Circulant type matrices have become an important tool in solving differential equations. In this paper, we consider circulant type matrices, including the circulant and left circulant andg-circulant matrices with the sum and product of Fibonacci and Lucas numbers. Firstly, we discuss the invertibility of the circulant matrix and present the determinant and the inverse matrix by constructing the transformation matrices. Furthermore, the invertibility of the left circulant andg-circulant matrices is also discussed. We obtain the determinants and the inverse matrices of the left circulant andg-circulant matrices by utilizing the relation between left circulant, andg-circulant matrices and circulant matrix, respectively.
Target Positioning with GDOP Assisted Nodes Selection Algorithm in Wireless Sensor Networks
Authors: Zhang Yunzhou , Wei Dongfei , Fu Wenyan , Yang Bing
Published: June 2014

In wireless sensor networks (WSN), the geometric distribution of anchor nodes has a significant influence on the positioning accuracy. Geometric dilution of precision (GDOP) can be used to measure the positioning precision of the localization system. In order to select the optimal node combination, traditional algorithms based on GDOP need to spend much time on calculating every possible combination of nodes. This paper proposes GDOP assisted nodes selection (GANS) algorithm to calculate GDOP value of the current geometric distribution. Sensor node's contribution to the overall GDOP value is adopted as the evaluation criteria. The nodes whose contribution value is greater than the threshold will be selected. The anchor nodes subset, which participates in the positioning, will be real-time determined. Simulation results show that the GANS algorithm can effectively reduce the energy consumption of the system, while the positioning accuracy has no obvious loss. Meanwhile, computational complexity is also obviously decreased.
Effect of UV Laser Conditioning on the Structure of KDP Crystal
Authors: Guo Decheng , Jiang Xiaodong , Huang Jing , Wang Fengrui , Liu Hongjie , Zu Xiaotao
Published: June 2014

Multiparametric raster scanning experiments for KDP crystals are carried out to study the laser conditioning efficiency as a function of laser fluence, fluence step, and pulse sequence by using ultraviolet (UV) laser irradiation with pulse duration of approximately 7 ns. It indicates that damage resistance of KDP can be enhanced after conditioning process. And laser conditioning efficiency depends on the maximal fluence which is below the damage threshold. Raman spectra and photothermal absorption have also been studied on KDP crystals before and after multiparametric laser conditioning. Photothermal absorption data reveal that absorbance of conditioned KDP crystal decreases with the increase of laser fluence and the damage threshold of low absorption area is higher. Raman analysis reveals that the effectiveness of laser conditioning relies mainly on the individual mode of PO4molecule.