bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Achieving Salt Restriction in Chronic Kidney Disease
Authors: McMahon Emma J. , Campbell Katrina L. , Mudge David W. , Bauer Judith D.
Published: December 2012

There is consistent evidence linking excessive dietary sodium intake to risk factors for cardiovascular disease and chronic kidney disease (CKD) progression in CKD patients; however, additional research is needed. In research trials and clinical practice, implementing and monitoring sodium intake present significant challenges. Epidemiological studies have shown that sodium intake remains high, and intervention studies have reported varied success with participant adherence to a sodium-restricted diet. Examining barriers to sodium restriction, as well as factors that predict adherence to a low sodium diet, can aid researchers and clinicians in implementing a sodium-restricted diet. In this paper, we critically review methods for measuring sodium intake with a specific focus on CKD patients, appraise dietary adherence, and factors that have optimized sodium restriction in key research trials and discuss barriers to sodium restriction and factors that must be considered when recommending a sodium-restricted diet.
The Effect of D-(−)-arabinose on Tyrosinase: An Integrated Study Using Computational Simulation and Inhibition Kinetics
Authors: Liu Hong-Jian , Ji Sunyoung , Fan Yong-Qiang , Yan Li , Yang Jun-Mo , Zhou Hai-Meng , Lee Jinhyuk , Wang Yu-Long
Published: December 2012

Tyrosinase is a ubiquitous enzyme with diverse physiologic roles related to pigment production. Tyrosinase inhibition has been well studied for cosmetic, medicinal, and agricultural purposes. We simulated the docking of tyrosinase and D-(−)-arabinose and found a binding energy of −4.5 kcal/mol for theup-formof D-(−)-arabinose and −4.4 kcal/mol for thedown-form of D-(−)-arabinose. The results of molecular dynamics simulation suggested that D-(−)-arabinose interacts mostly with HIS85, HIS259, and HIS263, which are believed to be in the active site. Our kinetic study showed that D-(−)-arabinose is a reversible, mixed-type inhibitor of tyrosinase (α-value =6.11±0.98, Ki=0.21±0.19 M). Measurements of intrinsic fluorescence showed that D-(−)-arabinose induced obvious tertiary changes to tyrosinase (binding constant K=1.58±0.02 M−1, binding number n=1.49±0.06). This strategy of predicting tyrosinase inhibition based on specific interactions of aldehyde and hydroxyl groups with the enzyme may prove useful for screening potential tyrosinase inhibitors.
Eigenvalue Problem of Nonlinear Semipositone Higher Order Fractional Differential Equations
Authors: Wu Jing , Zhang Xinguang
Published: December 2012

We study the eigenvalue interval for the existence of positive solutions to a semipositone higher order fractional differential equation = =   where n − 1 < μ ≤ n,  n ≥ 3, 0 < μ1 < μ2 < ⋯<μn−2 < μn−1, n − 3 < μn−1 < μ − 2, aj ∈ ℝ, 0 < ξ1 < ξ2 < ⋯<ξm−2 < 1 satisfying , is the standard Riemann‐Liouville derivative, f ∈ C((0,1) × ℝn, (−∞, +∞)), and f is allowed to be changing‐sign. By using reducing order method, the eigenvalue interval of existence for positive solutions is obtained.
Benign Fibrous Histiocytoma of the Conjunctiva
Authors: Ryan Geoffrey , Glasson Bill , Foster Andrew
Published: December 2012

A case is reported on recurrence of a rare conjunctival fibrous histiocytoma (FH) in a 38-year-old man. The lesion was excised and subsequently sent for histopathology and immunostaining resulting in a diagnosis of fibrous histiocytoma (FH). Recurrence was detected 3 months postoperatively requiring a conjunctivosclerokeratomy with cryotherapy and flap. At 6-month followup there was no recurrence detected.
pth Moment Exponential Stability of Stochastic PWM Feedback Systems with Time‐Varying Delays
Authors: Zhang Zhong , Ye Lixia
Published: December 2012

This paper further studies the pth moment exponential stability of stochastic pulse‐width‐modulated (PWM) feedback systems with distributed time‐varying delays. We establish several globally exponential stability criteria for such PWM feedback systems by using Lyapunov‐Krasovskii functional and then present an upper bound of the parameter of PWM when the system is stable and such system has stronger anti‐interference performance than the system without time‐varying delays. Furthermore, we present two examples to show the effectiveness and conservativeness of the theoretical results.
Growth of Thin Sheet Assembled Hierarchical ZnO Nanostructures
Authors: Jia Boxiang , Jia Weina , Wang Jing , Qu Fengyu , Wu Xiang
Published: December 2012

Hierarchical ZnO nanostructures assembled from nanosheets are obtained through a facile hydrothermal route. The structure and morphology of the resultant products were characterized by X‐ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscope (SEM), and transmission electron microscope (TEM). The experimental results indicated that the as‐synthesized ZnO nanosheets have an average thickness of approximately 50 nm. The possible mechanism for hierarchical ZnO nanostructures has been discussed in detail, and it was found that sulfur powder plays a critical role in the morphology of the products. Room temperature photoluminescence property of the hierarchical ZnO nanostructures shows an ultraviolet emission peak at 385 nm.
Application of Rational Second Kind Chebyshev Functions for System of Integrodifferential Equations on Semi‐Infinite Intervals
Authors: Tavassoli Kajani M. , Vahdati S. , Abbas Zulkifly , Maleki Mohammad
Published: December 2012

Rational Chebyshev bases and Galerkin method are used to obtain the approximate solution of a system of high‐order integro‐differential equations on the interval [0,∞). This method is based on replacement of the unknown functions by their truncated series of rational Chebyshev expansion. Test examples are considered to show the high accuracy, simplicity, and efficiency of this method.
Nanostructured Surfaces to Target and Kill Circulating Tumor Cells While Repelling Leukocytes
Authors: Mitchell Michael J. , Castellanos Carlos A. , King Michael R.
Published: December 2012

Hematogenous metastasis, the process of cancer cell migration from a primary to distal location via the bloodstream, typically leads to a poor patient prognosis. Selectin proteins hold promise in delivering drug‐containing nanocarriers to circulating tumor cells (CTCs) in the bloodstream, due to their rapid, force‐dependent binding kinetics. However, it is challenging to deliver such nanocarriers while avoiding toxic effects on healthy blood cells, as many possess ligands that adhesively interact with selectins. Herein, we describe a nanostructured surface to capture flowing cancer cells, while preventing human neutrophil adhesion. Microtube surfaces with immobilized halloysite nanotubes (HNTs) and E‐selectin functionalized liposomal doxorubicin (ES‐PEG L‐DXR) significantly increased the number of breast adenocarcinoma MCF7 cells captured from flow, yet also significantly reduced the number of captured neutrophils. Neutrophils firmly adhered and projected pseudopods on surfaces coated only with liposomes, while neutrophils adherent to HNT‐liposome surfaces maintained a round morphology. Perfusion of both MCF7 cells and neutrophils resulted in primarily cancer cell adhesion to the HNT‐liposome surface, and induced significant cancer cell death. This work demonstrates that nanostructured surfaces consisting of HNTs and ES‐PEG L‐DXR can increase CTC recruitment for chemotherapeutic delivery, while also preventing healthy cell adhesion and uptake of therapeutic intended for CTCs.
Curative Effects of Oleanolic Acid on Formed Hypertrophic Scars in the Rabbit Ear Model
Authors: Zhang Hong , Zhang Yan , Jiang Yi-Ping , Zhang Lan-Ke , Peng Cheng , He Kun , Rahman Khalid , Qin Lu-Ping
Published: December 2012

Hypertrophic scarring is a common proliferative disorder of dermal fibroblasts characterized by collagen overproduction and excessive deposition of extracellular matrix (ECM). There is no consensus about the best therapeutics to produce complete and permanent improvement of scars with few side effects. To investigate the therapeutic effects of oleanolic acid (OA) on hypertrophic scars and explore the possible mechanism of action involved, a rabbit ear model with hypertrophic scars was established. OA (2.5%, 5%, and 10%) was given once daily to the scars for 28 consecutive days. As a result, OA significantly alleviated formed hypertrophic scars on rabbit ears. The levels of TGF-β1, MMP-1, TIMP-1, and collagens I and III were notably decreased, and the number of apoptosis cells and mRNA expression of MMP-2, caspase-3, and caspase-9 were markedly increased in the scar tissue. The scar elevation index (SEI) was also evidently reduced. Histological findings exhibited significant amelioration of the collagen tissue. These results suggest that OA has the favorable curative effects on formed hypertrophic scars in the rabbit ear model, and the possible mechanism of action is that OA decreases HSFs proliferation and increases HSFs apoptosis by reduction of P311 gene expression and TGF-β1production, inhibition of TIMP-1 secretion, enhancement of MMP-2 activity, and subsequently facilitation of degradation of collagen types I and III.
Cauchy‐Matern Model of Sea Surface Wind Speed at the Lake Worth, Florida
Authors: Li Ming , Lim S. C. , Zhao Wei
Published: December 2012

We study the Cauchy‐Matern (CM) process with long‐range dependence (LRD). The closed form of its power spectrum density (PSD) function is given. We apply it to model the autocovariance function (ACF) and the PSD of the sea surface wind speed (wind speed for short) observed in the Lake Worth, Florida, over the 1984–2006 period. The present results exhibit that the wind speed at the Lake Worth over 1984–2006 is of LRD. The present results exhibit that the CM process may yet be a novel model to fit the wind speed there.
Quality of Life in Bipolar Type I Disorder in a One-Year Followup
Authors: Amini Homayoun , Sharifi Vandad
Published: December 2012

Objectives. The aims of this study were (i) to compare Quality of Life (QOL) of patients with bipolar disorder (BD) type I to those with schizophrenia during a one-year period after hospitalization and (ii) to assess the association of different domains of QOL with severity of clinical symptoms and level of functioning in bipolar patients group.Method. A hundred and two participants were consecutively recruited before discharge from an acute hospitalization. To measure QOL as the main outcome variable, the Farsi (Persian) version of the World Health Organization's QOL Instrument Short Version (WHOQOL BREF) was used. Affective symptoms, overall functioning, and severity of mental illness were assessed as well. The assessment procedure was repeated four, eight, and 12 months after discharge.Results. No significant differences were found between patients with BD and schizophrenia on four domains of WHOQOL BREF at the baseline and the four, eight, and 12 month assessments. Within the subjects with bipolar I disorder, the most stable finding was negative association of depression severity with WHOQOL-BREF on the all four domains during repeated assessments.Conclusion. The findings suggest that persistent depressive symptoms might be the primary determinant of impaired QOL in patients with bipolar I disorder.
Analysis of Misdiagnosis of 4 Cases of Tuberculosis of Thyroid and Literature Review
Authors: Yin De-Tao , Wu Wenxun , Cao Shengli , Li Hongqiang
Published: December 2012

Objective. To investigate the cause of misdiagnosis and the diagnosis and treatment of tuberculosis of thyroid.Methods. Four cases of tuberculosis of thyroid were reported and the related literature was reviewed, as well as the causes of misdiagnosis and the diagnosis and treatment were discussed.Results. Two cases were misdiagnosis as thyroid adenoma and one case as thyroid carcinoma, while one case as missed diagnosis. Part of resection, local excision, and lobectomy was performed, respectively, with all the patients who were treated with antituberculosis drugs and recovered.Conclusion. The atypical manifestation of tuberculosis of thyroid suggested that it is important to reinforce the knowledge of this disease. Cytological examination by fine-needle aspirate biopsy was helpful to the diagnosis. The first choice was treatment with anti-tuberculosis drugs.
A Patient with Fibroepithelial Polyp of the Ureter—A Rare Condition Mimicking Malignancy: A Case Report
Authors: Brummeisl Wolfgang , Fritsche Hans-Martin , Huber Elisabeth , Wieland Wolf F. , Ganzer Roman
Published: December 2012

A 61-year-old man presented with hematuria and intermittent right pelvic pain. Intravenous urography showed a tubular filling defect and ureteroscopy a tumor in the right mid ureter. Urine cytology and tumor biopsy showed nonmalignant results. Open surgery was performed, and an intraoperative frozen section revealed a fibroepithelial polyp of the right mid ureter. A fibroepithelial polyp is a rare benign lesion that can occur in childhood but is an important differential diagnosis of an upper urinary tract urothelial cell carcinoma in adults.
Gas‐Supported High‐Photoactivity TiO2 Nanotubes
Authors: Wang Sheng , Wang Tao , Ding Yuanwei , Xu Youfeng , Su Qiying , Gao Yanlong , Jiang Guohua , Chen Wenxing
Published: December 2012

By changing hydrothermal condition and post‐heat‐treatment temperature, silica‐coated TiO2
nanotubes are obtained successfully. The effects of gas‐supported process on tubular morphology, crystallinity, and photocatalytic activity are discussed. It is found that the sample prepared at hydrothermal treatment (180°C/9 h) and calcination (650°C/2 h) shows perfect open‐ended tubular morphology and increased crystallinity. The photoactivity of the sample is proved to be 5 times higher than that of TiO2
nanoparticles.
Application of Ferriferous Oxide Modified by Chitosan in Gene Delivery
Authors: Kuang Yu , Yuan Tun , Zhang Zhongwei , Li Mingyuan , Yang Yuan
Published: December 2012

New approaches to improve the traditional gene carriers are still required. Here we explore Fe3O4 modified with degradable polymers that enhances gene delivery and target delivery using permanent magnetic field. Two magnetic Fe3O4 nanoparticles coated with chitosan (CTS) and polyethylene glycol (PEG) were synthesized by means of controlled chemical coprecipitation. Plasmid pEGFP was encapsulated as a reported gene. The ferriferous oxide complexes were approximately spherical; surface charge of CTS-Fe3O4 and PEG-Fe3O4 was about 20 mv and 0 mv, respectively. The controlled release of DNA from the CTS-Fe3O4 nanoparticles was observed. Concurrently, a desired Fe3O4 concentration of less than 2 mM was verified as safe by means of a cytotoxicity test in vitro. Presence of the permanent magnetic field significantly increased the transfection efficiency. Furthermore, the passive target property and safety of magnetic nanoparticles were also demonstrated in an in vivo test. The novel gene delivery system was proved to be an effective tool required for future target expression and gene therapy in vivo.
Survey of Mechatronic Techniques in Modern Machine Design
Authors: Shetty Devdas , Manzione Lou , Ali Ahad
Published: December 2012

Increasing demands on the productivity of complex systems, such as manufacturing machines and their steadily growing technological importance will require the application of new methods in the product development process. A smart machine can make decisions about the process in real-time with plenty of adaptive controls. This paper shows the simulation based mechatronic model of a complex system with a better understanding of the dynamic behavior and interactions of the components. This offers improved possibilities of evaluating and optimizing the dynamic motion performance of the entire automated system in the early stages of the design process. Another effect is the growing influence of interactions between machine components on achievable machine dynamics and precision and quality of components. The examples cited in this paper, demonstrate the distinguishing feature of mechatronic systems through intensive integration. The case studies also show that it will no longer be sufficient to focus solely on the optimization of subsystems. Instead it will be necessary to strive for optimization of the complete system. The interactions between machine components, the influence of the control system and the machining process will have to be considered during the design process and the coordination of feed drives and frame structure components.
To Bind or to Let Loose: Effectiveness of Sodium Polystyrene Sulfonate in Decreasing Serum Potassium
Authors: Sandal Shaifali , Karachiwala Hatim , Noviasky John , Wang Dongliang , Elliott William C. , Lehmann David F.
Published: December 2012

Background. The use of sodium polystyrene sulfonate in decreasing serum potassium has recently been questioned due to the lack of documented effectiveness.Methods. A retrospective cohort analysis of all hospitalized patients who received sodium polystyrene sulfonate over four months was performed. The change in serum potassium was noted over a period of 24 hours. Patients who received any other form of potassium-altering drug or treatment were excluded.Results. The administration of sodium polystyrene sulfonate reduced serum potassium by 16.7% (P<0.001) as compared to the baseline serum potassium over a period of 24 hours. During this same time, no change in serum creatinine was identified (P=0.73). In addition, there was no correlation between potassium and creatinine change (r2= 0.0004 andP=0.99). Patients with higher initial serum potassium (≥5.6 mEq/L) reduced their potassium concentration 4% more than those with initial serum potassium of <5.6 mEq/L; however, this reduction did not reach statistical significance (P=0.32). There was no significant difference in the effectiveness of 15 gm and 30 gm resin preparation (P=0.54). Thirteen deaths were noted in our cohort, of which one death was due to ischemic colitis.Conclusion. We conclude that sodium polystyrene sulfonate is effective in lowering serum potassium.
The Therapeutic Benefit of Allopurinol in the Treatment of Foreign Body Granulomas Caused by Polymethylmethacrylate Microspheres
Authors: de Barros Silveira Luisa Kelmer Côrtes , de Oliveira Felipe Ladeira , Alves Thais de Barros Castro , Rambaldi Maria Lourdes Candela , Andrade Felipe Cupertino de , Kelmer Santuzza de Carvalho , Barbosa Fabio Cuiabano
Published: December 2012

Injectable polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA) microspheres are nonbiodegradable and too large for macrophage phagocytosis. There are several complications possible to happen, like chronic nonspecific inflammatory reactions, lip stiffness, infection, and granulomas. The occurrence of granulomas can lead to a not aesthetic result, making some extreme changes in the patient’s life. The objective of this case report is to describe the successful treatment of foreign body granulomas caused by polymethylmethacrylate microspheres using allopurinol, an innovative therapy for this condition.
Robust Stability of a Class of Uncertain Lur′e Systems of Neutral Type
Authors: Weera W. , Niamsup P.
Published: December 2012

This paper deals with the problem of stability for a class of Lur’e systems with interval time‐varying delay and sector‐bounded nonlinearity. The interval time‐varying delay function is not assumed to be differentiable. We analyze the global exponential stability for uncertain neutral and Lur’e dynamical systems with some sector conditions. By constructing a set of improved Lyapunov‐Krasovskii functional combined with Leibniz‐Newton’s formula, we establish some stability criteria in terms of linear matrix inequalities. Numerical examples are given to illustrate the effectiveness of the results.
High-Level Design Space and Flexibility Exploration for Adaptive, Energy-Efficient WCDMA Channel Estimation Architectures
Authors: Rákossy Zoltán Endre , Wang Zheng , Chattopadhyay Anupam
Published: December 2012

Due to the fast changing wireless communication standards coupled with strict performance constraints, the demand for flexible yet high-performance architectures is increasing. To tackle the flexibility requirement, software-defined radio (SDR) is emerging as an obvious solution, where the underlying hardware implementation is tuned via software layers to the varied standards depending on power-performance and quality requirements leading to adaptable, cognitive radio. In this paper, we conduct a case study for representatives of two complexity classes of WCDMA channel estimation algorithms and explore the effect of flexibility on energy efficiency using different implementation options. Furthermore, we propose new design guidelines for both highly specialized architectures and highly flexible architectures using high-level synthesis, to enable the required performance and flexibility to support multiple applications. Our experiments with various design points show that the resulting architectures meet the performance constraints of WCDMA and a wide range of options are offered for tuning such architectures depending on power/performance/area constraints of SDR.
Two-Photon Photodynamic Therapy by Water-Soluble Self-Assembled Conjugated Porphyrins
Authors: Ogawa Kazuya , Kobuke Yoshiaki
Published: December 2012

Studies on two-photon absorption (2PA) photodynamic therapy (PDT) by using three water-soluble porphyrin self-assemblies consisting of ethynylene-linked conjugatedbis(imidazolylporphyrin) are reviewed. 2PA cross-section values in water were obtained by an open aperture Z-scan measurement, and values were extremely large compared with those of monomeric porphyrins such as hematoporphyrin. These compounds were found to generate singlet oxygen efficiently upon one- as well as two-photon absorption as demonstrated by the time-resolved luminescence measurement at the characteristic band of singlet oxygen at 1270 nm and by using its scavenger. Photocytotoxicities for HeLa cancer cells were examined and found to be as high as those of hematoporphyrin, demonstrating that these compounds are potential candidates for 2PA-photodynamic therapy agents.
Preparation, Characterization, and Determination of Immunological Activities of Transfer Factor Specific to Human Sperm Antigen
Authors: Zhou Jianwei , Kong Cui , Yuan Zhaohong , Luo Junmin , Ma Rui , Yu Jiang , Cao Jinghe
Published: December 2012

Objective.The objective of this study was to prepare, characterize, and determine immunological activities of specific transfer factor (STF) specific to human sperm antigen (HSA) for the preparation of antisperm contraceptive vaccine that can be used as an immunocontraceptive.Methods.HSA-STF was prepared using the spleens of rabbits vaccinated with HSA. The specific immunological activities were examined by lymphocyte proliferation test (LPT), leukocyte adhesion inhibition test (LAIT), and by determining the concentrations of IL-4,γ-IFN, and IL-21. HSA-STF was a helveolous substance, having a pH value of7.0±0.4and UV absorption maxima at258±6 nm. It contained seventeen amino acids; glycine and glutamic acids were the highest in terms of concentrations (38.8 μg/mL and 36.3 μg/mL, resp.).Results.The concentration of polypeptide was2.34±0.31 mg/mL, and ribose was0.717±0.043 mg/mL. The stimulation index for lymphocyte proliferation test was 1.84, and the leukocyte adhesion inhibition rate was 37.7%. There was a statistically significant difference between the cultural lymphocytes with HSA-STF and non-HSA-STF forγ-IFN and IL-21 (P<0.05), but there was no statistical significance for IL-4 (P>0.05).Conclusion.HSA-STF was prepared and characterized successfully. It had immunological activity which could transfer the immune response specific to HSA and prove to be a potential candidate for the development of male immunocontraceptive agents.
Innovative Strategies to Overcome Biofilm Resistance
Authors: Taraszkiewicz Aleksandra , Fila Grzegorz , Grinholc Mariusz , Nakonieczna Joanna
Published: December 2012

We review the recent literature concerning the efficiency of antimicrobial photodynamic inactivation toward various microbial species in planktonic and biofilm cultures. The review is mainly focused on biofilm-growing microrganisms because this form of growth poses a threat to chronically infected or immunocompromised patients and is difficult to eradicate from medical devices. We discuss the biofilm formation process and mechanisms of its increased resistance to various antimicrobials. We present, based on data in the literature, strategies for overcoming the problem of biofilm resistance. Factors that have potential for use in increasing the efficiency of the killing of biofilm-forming bacteria include plant extracts, enzymes that disturb the biofilm structure, and other nonenzymatic molecules. We propose combining antimicrobial photodynamic therapy with various antimicrobial and antibiofilm approaches to obtain a synergistic effect to permit efficient microbial growth control at low photosensitizer doses.
Simultaneous Quantification of Mitochondrial DNA Damage and Copy Number in Circulating Blood: A Sensitive Approach to Systemic Oxidative Stress
Authors: Chan Sam W. , Chevalier Simone , Aprikian Armen , Chen Junjian Z.
Published: December 2012

Systemic oxidative stress is associated with a wide range of pathological conditions. Oxidative DNA damage is frequently measured in circulating lymphocytes. Mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) is known to be more sensitive to oxidative damage than nuclear DNA but is rarely used for direct measurement of DNA damage in clinical studies. Based on the supercoiling-sensitive real-time PCR method, we propose a new approach for the noninvasive monitoring of systemic oxidative stress by quantifying the mtDNA structural damage and copy number change in isolated lymphocytes in a single test. We show that lymphocytes have significantly less mtDNA content and relatively lower baseline levels of damage than cancer cell lines. In anex vivochallenge experiment, we demonstrate, for the first time, that exogenous H2O2induces a significant increase in mtDNA damage in lymphocytes from healthy individuals, but no repair activity is observed after 1 h recovery. We further demonstrate that whole blood may serve as a convenient alternative to the isolated lymphocytes in mtDNA analysis. Thus, the blood analysis with the multiple mtDNA end-points proposed in the current study may provide a simple and sensitive test to interrogate the nature and extent of systemic oxidative stress for a broad spectrum of clinical investigations.
Downregulation ofDLC-1Gene by Promoter Methylation during Primary Colorectal Cancer Progression
Authors: Peng Haixia , Long Feng , Wu Zhiyuan , Chu Yimin , Li Ji , Kuai Rong , Zhang Jing , Kang Zhihua , Zhang Xinju , Guan Ming
Published: December 2012

Purpose.DLC-1is a tumor suppressor gene frequently silenced in human cancers. However, the pathogenicity ofDLC-1epigenetic silencing in the mucosa-adenoma-carcinoma transformation process of colorectal cancer (CRC) has not been studied.Methods. Promoter methylation status ofDLC-1was evaluated in 4 human CRC cell lines, 48 normal mucosa, 57 adenomas, and 80 CRC tissues with methylation-sensitive high-resolution melting analysis (MS-HRMA), while the mRNA expression was examined by qPCR. HRMA was utilized to detect theKRAScodon 12, 13 andBRAFV600Emutations.Results. Partial (1%–10%) and extensive (10%–100%)DLC-1promoter methylations were observed in 10% and 0% of normal mucosa, 46% and 14% of adenomas, and 60% and 36% of CRCs, respectively. The promoter methylation ofDLC-1was related with the reduction of gene expression and the advanced Duke’s stages (Stage C and D).DLC-1promoter methylation andKRASmutations are common concurrent pathological alternations.Conclusions. Epigenetic alternation plays a key role in the transcriptional silencing ofDLC-1. It is also an independent risk factor related to the carcinogenesis of colorectal tumors and spans over its pathogenesis process. Therefore,DLC-1promoter methylation quantitation may have a promising significance in the evaluation and management of CRC patients.
Commercially Important Medicinal Plants of South Africa: A Review
Authors: Street R. A. , Prinsloo G.
Published: December 2012

There is a growing interest in natural plant‐based remedies as a source for commercial products. Around 80% of the South African population use traditional medicines to meet their primary health care needs; however, only a few South African medicinal plants have been exploited to their full potential in terms of commercialization. The opportunity for bioprospecting of plant compounds for novel pharmaceuticals remains largely untapped. Certain renowned medicinal plants of international acclaim including buchu and rooibos are currently contributing to local enterprise; however, other exciting opportunities exist for commonly used plants which have not yet reached the international arena. This paper focuses on the key research and development contributions of 10 commercially important medicinal plants of South Africa. Traditional uses, scientific validation, commercialisation developments, as well as both potential opportunities and setbacks are discussed.
An Inherited Heteroplasmic Mutation in Mitochondrial Gene COI in a Patient with Prostate Cancer Alters Reactive Oxygen, Reactive Nitrogen and Proliferation
Authors: Arnold Rebecca S. , Sun Qian , Sun Carrie Q. , Richards Jendai C. , O'Hearn Sean , Osunkoya Adeboye O. , Wallace Douglas C. , Petros John A.
Published: December 2012

Mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) mutations have been found in many cancers but the physiological derangements caused by such mutations have remained elusive. Prostate cancer is associated with both inherited and somatic mutations in the cytochrome c oxidase (COI) gene. We present a prostate cancer patient-derived rare heteroplasmic mutation of this gene, part of mitochondrial respiratory complex IV. Functional studies indicate that this mutation leads to the simultaneous decrease in cytochrome oxidation, increase in reactive oxygen, and increased reactive nitrogen. These data suggest that mitochondrial DNA mutations resulting in increased reactive oxygen and reactive nitrogen generation may be involved in prostate cancer biology.
Estimation of Biochemical Oxygen Demand Based on Dissolved Organic Carbon, UV Absorption, and Fluorescence Measurements
Authors: Kwak Jihyun , Khang Bumju , Kim Eunhee , Kim Hyunook
Published: December 2012

Determination of 5‐d biochemical oxygen demand (BOD5) is the most commonly practiced test to assess the water quality of surface waters and the waste loading. However, BOD5 is not a good parameter for the control of water or wastewater treatment processes because of its long test period. It is very difficult to produce consistent and reliable BOD5 results without using careful laboratory quality control practices. This study was performed to develop software sensors to predict the BOD5 of river water and wastewater. The software sensors were based on the multiple regression analysis using the dissolved organic carbon (DOC) concentration, UV light absorbance at 254 nm, and synchronous fluorescence spectra. River water samples and wastewater treatment plant (WWTP) effluents were collected at 1‐hour interval to evaluate the feasibility of the software sensors. In short, the software sensors developed in this study could well predict the BOD5 of river water (r = 0.78) and for the WWTP effluent (r = 0.90).
Quantitative Determination of Fatty Acids in Marine Fish and Shellfish from Warm Water of Straits of Malacca for Nutraceutical Purposes
Authors: Abd Aziz Nurnadia , Azlan Azrina , Ismail Amin , Mohd Alinafiah Suryati , Razman Muhammad Rizal
Published: December 2012

This study was conducted to quantitatively determine the fatty acid contents of 20 species of marine fish and four species of shellfish from Straits of Malacca. Most samples contained fairly high amounts of polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs), especially alpha-linolenic acid (ALA, C18:3 n3), eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA, C20:5 n3), and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA, C22:6 n3). Longtail shad, yellowstripe scad, and moonfish contained significantly higher (P<0.05) amounts of eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), and alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), respectively. Meanwhile, fringescale sardinella, malabar red snapper, black pomfret, Japanese threadfin bream, giant seaperch, and sixbar grouper showed considerably high content (537.2–944.1 mg/100g wet sample) of desirable omega-3 fatty acids. The polyunsaturated-fatty-acids/saturated-fatty-acids (P/S) ratios for most samples were higher than that of Menhaden oil (P/S=0.58), a recommended PUFA supplement which may help to lower blood pressure. Yellowstripe scad (highest DHA,ω-3/ω-6=6.4,P/S=1.7), moonfish (highest ALA,ω-3/ω-6=1.9,P/S=1.0), and longtail shad (highest EPA,ω-3/ω-6=0.8,P/S=0.4) were the samples with an outstandingly desirable overall composition of fatty acids. Overall, the marine fish and shellfish from the area contained good composition of fatty acids which offer health benefits and may be used for nutraceutical purposes in the future.
Cells with Stem Cell Characteristics in Somatic Compartments of the Ovary
Authors: Kossowska-Tomaszczuk Katarzyna , De Geyter Christian
Published: December 2012

Antral follicular growth in the ovary is characterized by rapid expansion of granulosa cells accompanied by a rising complexity of their functionality. Within two weeks the number of human granulosa cells increases from less than 500,000 to more than 50 millions cells per follicle and differentiates into groups of cells with a variety of specialized functions involved in steroidogenesis, nursing the oocyte, and forming a functional syncitium. Both the rapid proliferation and different specialized functions of the granulosa cells can only be explained through the involvement of stem cells. However, luteinizing granulosa cells were believed to be terminally differentiated cells. Only recently, stem and progenitor cells with FSH-receptor activity were identified in populations of luteinizing granulosa cells obtained during oocyte collected for assisted reproduction. In the presence of the leukaemia-inhibiting factor (LIF), it was possible to culture a subpopulation of the luteinizing granulosa cells over prolonged time periods. Furthermore, when embedded in a matrix consisting of collagen type I, these cells continued to express the FSH receptor over prolonged time periods, developed globular formations that surrogated as follicle-like structures, providing a promising tool for reproductive biology.
Taenia crassicepsInfection Does Not Influence the Development of Experimental Rheumatoid Arthritis
Authors: Ortiz-Flores Aaxin M. , Ledesma-Soto Yadira , Calleja Elsa A. , Rodríguez-Sosa Miriam , Juárez Imelda , Terrazas Luis I.
Published: December 2012

It was previously reported by our group that infection withTaenia crassicepsreduces incidence and severity of inflammatory and autoimmune experimental diseases like type 1 diabetes and experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis. In this research, we set out to study whether infection withT. crassicepswould affect the development of experimental rheumatoid arthritis (RA). We found that mice infected with the parasite and induced with experimental RA showed similar clinical scores as the noninfected experimental RA group; systemic cytokines were not affected while anti-CII Abs were higher in the infected group. Histological evaluation showed damage in both infected and noninfected experimental RA-induced groups and although some surface molecules such as PDL-2 and MR which are associated with immunomodulatory mechanisms were upregulated in the infected and RA-induced group as compared to the noninfected RA group, they did not exert any changes in the outcome of experimental RA. Thus, we determined that infection withT. crassicepsdoes not influence the outcome of experimental RA.
Modification of Gold Surface with Gold Nanoparticles and Cyclohexyl Dithiocarbamate as a Selective Sensor for Cysteine
Authors: AlShamaileh Ehab , Saadeh Haytham , Favry Valerie
Published: December 2012

The self‐assembly of cyclohexylamine dithiocarbamate (C6DTC) on gold (Au) and gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) was studied electrochemically using cyclic voltammetry (CV). Cyclic voltammetry was used to study the system at the electrode surface of (C6DTC/Au) and (C6DTC/AuNPs). The application of the resulting chemically modified surface as a selective sensor for cysteine, among other amino acids, was investigated. Linear oxidative desorption technique was used to characterize the modified electrode that consists of the self‐assembled monolayer of cyclohexylamine dithiocarbamate on gold nanoparticles deposited on Au electrode (C6DTC/AuNPs/Au). The results showed an enhancement in the oxidation peak of cysteine on the modified electrode and hence a greater sensitivity.
Finite Element Analysis of a Natural Fiber (Maize) Composite Beam
Authors: Bavan D. Saravana , Kumar G. C. Mohan
Published: December 2012

Natural fiber composites are termed as biocomposites or green composites. These fibers are green, biodegradable, and recyclable and have good properties such as low density and low cost when compared to synthetic fibers. The present work is investigated on the finite element analysis of the natural fiber (maize) composite beam, processed by means of hand lay-up method. Composite beam material is composed of stalk-based fiber of maize and unsaturated polyester resin polymer as matrix with methyl ethyl ketone peroxide (MEKP) as a catalyst and Cobalt Octoate as a promoter. The material was modeled and resembled as a structural beam using suitable assumption and analyzed by means of finite element method using ANSYS software for determining the deflection and stress properties. Morphological analysis and X-ray diffraction (XRD) analysis for the fiber were examined by means of scanning electron microscope (SEM) and X-ray diffractometer. From the results, it has been found that the finite element values are acceptable with proper assumptions, and the prepared natural fiber composite beam material can be used for structural engineering applications.
On the Difference in Quality between Current Heuristic and Optimal Solutions to the Protein Structure Alignment Problem
Authors: Arriagada Mauricio , Poleksic Aleksandar
Published: December 2012

The importance of pairwise protein structural comparison in biomedical research is fueling the search for algorithms capable of finding more accurate structural match of two input proteins in a timely manner. In recent years, we have witnessed rapid advances in the development of methods for approximate and optimal solutions to the protein structure matching problem. Albeit slow, these methods can be extremely useful in assessing the accuracy of more efficient, heuristic algorithms. We utilize a recently developed approximation algorithm for protein structure matching to demonstrate that a deep search of the protein superposition space leads to increased alignment accuracy with respect to many well-established measures of alignment quality. The results of our study suggest that a large and important part of the protein superposition space remains unexplored by current techniques for protein structure alignment.
Sulfur Resistance of Pt‐W Catalysts
Authors: Betti Carolina P. , Badano Juan M. , Rivas Ivana L. , Mazzieri Vanina A. , Maccarrone M. Juliana , Coloma-Pascual Fernando , Vera Carlos R. , Quiroga Mónica E.
Published: December 2012

The sulfur resistance of low‐loaded monometallic Pt catalysts and bimetallic Pt‐W catalysts during the partial selective hydrogenation of styrene, a model compound of Pygas streams, was studied. The effect of metal impregnation sequence on the activity and selectivity was also evaluated. Catalysts were characterized by ICP, TPR, XRD, and XPS techniques.
Catalytic tests with sulfur‐free and sulfur‐doped feeds were performed. All catalysts showed high selectivities (>98%) to ethylbenzene. Activity differences between the catalysts were mainly attributed to electronic effects due to the presence of different electron‐rich species of Pt0 and electron‐deficient species of Ptδ+. Pt0 promotes the cleavage of H2 while Ptδ+ the adsorption of styrene.
The catalyst successively impregnated with W and Pt (WPt/Al) was more active and sulfur resistant than the catalyst prepared with an inverse impregnation order (PtW/Al). The higher poison resistance of WPt/Al was attributed to both steric and electronic effects.
RNase P-Associated External Guide Sequence Effectively Reduces the Expression of Human CC-Chemokine Receptor 5 and Inhibits the Infection of Human Immunodeficiency Virus 1
Authors: Zeng Wenbo , Vu Gia-Phong , Bai Yong , Chen Yuan-Chuan , Trang Phong , Lu Sangwei , Xiao Gengfu , Liu Fenyong
Published: December 2012

External guide sequences (EGSs) represent a new class of RNA-based gene-targeting agents, consist of a sequence complementary to a target mRNA, and render the target RNA susceptible to degradation by ribonuclease P (RNase P). In this study, EGSs were constructed to target the mRNA encoding human CC-chemokine receptor 5 (CCR5), one of the primary coreceptors for HIV. An EGS RNA, C1, efficiently directed human RNase P to cleave the CCR5 mRNA sequencein vitro. A reduction of about 70% in the expression level of both CCR5 mRNA and protein and an inhibition of more than 50-fold in HIV (R5 strain Ba-L) p24 production were observed in cells that expressed C1. In comparison, a reduction of about 10% in the expression of CCR5 and viral growth was found in cells that either did not express the EGS or produced a “disabled” EGS which carried nucleotide mutations that precluded RNase P recognition. Furthermore, the same C1-expressing cells that were protected from R5 strain Ba-L retained susceptibility to X4 strain IIIB, which uses CXCR4 as the coreceptor instead of CCR5, suggesting that the RNase P-mediated cleavage induced by the EGS is specific for the target CCR5 but not the closely related CXCR4. Our results provide direct evidence that EGS RNAs against CCR5 are effective and specific in blocking HIV infection and growth. These results also demonstrate the feasibility to develop highly effective EGSs for anti-HIV therapy.
Brazilian Propolis: A Natural Product That Improved the Fungicidal Activity by Blood Phagocytes
Authors: Possamai Muryllo Mendes , Honorio-França Adenilda Cristina , Reinaque Ana Paula Barcelos , França Eduardo Luzia , Souto Paula Cristina de Souza
Published: December 2012

Natural product incorporation into microcarriers increases the bioavailability of these compounds, consequently improving their therapeutic properties. Natural products, particularly those from bees such as propolis, are widely used in popular medicine. Propolis is a powerful treatment for several diseases. In this context, the present study evaluated the effect of propolisScaptotrigonasp. and its fractions, alone or adsorbed to polyethylene glycol (PEG) microspheres, on the activity of human phagocytes againstCandida albicans. The results show that propolis exerts a stimulatory effect on these cells to assist in combating the fungus, especially as the crude extract is compared with the fractions. However, when incorporated into microspheres, these properties were significantly potentiated. These results suggest that propolis adsorbed onto PEG microspheres has immunostimulatory effects on phagocytes in human blood. Therefore, propolis may potentially be an additional natural product that can be used for a variety of therapies.
Growth Induction and Low-Oxygen Apoptosis Inhibition of Human CD34+Progenitors in Collagen Gels
Authors: Avitabile Daniele , Salchert Katrin , Werner Carsten , Capogrossi Maurizio C. , Pesce Maurizio
Published: December 2012

Various reports have indicated low survival of injected progenitors into unfavorable environments such as the ischemic myocardium or lower limb tissues. This represents a major bottleneck in stem-cell-based cardiovascular regenerative medicine. Strategies to enhance survival of these cells in recipient tissues have been therefore sought to improve stem cell survival and ensure long-term engraftment. In the present contribution, we show that embedding human cord blood-derived CD34+cells into a collagen I-based hydrogel containing cytokines is a suitable strategy to promote stem cell proliferation and protect these cells from anoxia-induced apoptosis.
Current Stem Cell Delivery Methods for Myocardial Repair
Authors: Sheng Calvin C. , Zhou Li , Hao Jijun
Published: December 2012

Heart failure commonly results from an irreparable damage due to cardiovascular diseases (CVDs), the leading cause of morbidity and mortality in the United States. In recent years, the rapid advancements in stem cell research have garnered much praise for paving the way to novel therapies in reversing myocardial injuries. Cell types currently investigated for cellular delivery include embryonic stem cells (ESCs), induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs), and adult stem cell lineages such as skeletal myoblasts, bone-marrow-derived stem cells (BMSCs), mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs), and cardiac stem cells (CSCs). To engraft these cells into patients’ damaged myocardium, a variety of approaches (intramyocardial, transendocardial, transcoronary, venous, intravenous, intracoronary artery and retrograde venous administrations and bioengineered tissue transplantation) have been developed and explored. In this paper, we will discuss the pros and cons of these delivery modalities, the current state of their therapeutic potentials, and a multifaceted evaluation of their reported clinical feasibility, safety, and efficacy. While the issues of optimal delivery approach, the best progenitor stem cell type, the most effective dose, and timing of administration remain to be addressed, we are highly optimistic that stem cell therapy will provide a clinically viable option for myocardial regeneration.
Synergistic Effects of Secretory Phospholipase A2from the Venom ofAgkistrodon piscivorus piscivoruswith Cancer Chemotherapeutic Agents
Authors: Nelson Jennifer , Barlow Kristen , Beck D. Olin , Berbert Amanda , Eshenroder Nathan , Francom Lyndee , Pruitt Mark , Thompson Kina , Thompson Kyle , Thurber Brian , Yeung Celestine H.-Y. , Judd Allan M. , Bell John D.
Published: December 2012

Healthy cells typically resist hydrolysis catalyzed by snake venom secretory phospholipase A2. However, during various forms of programmed cell death, they become vulnerable to attack by the enzyme. This observation raises the question of whether the specificity of the enzyme for dying cells could be used as a strategy to eliminate tumor cells that have been intoxicated but not directly killed by chemotherapeutic agents. This idea was tested with S49 lymphoma cells and a broad range of antineoplastic drugs: methotrexate, daunorubicin, actinomycin D, and paclitaxel. In each case, a substantial population of treated cells was still alive yet vulnerable to attack by the enzyme. Induction of cell death by these agents also perturbed the biophysical properties of the membrane as detected by merocyanine 540 and trimethylammonium-diphenylhexatriene. These results suggest that exposure of lymphoma cells to these drugs universally causes changes to the cell membrane that render it susceptible to enzymatic attack. The data also argue that the snake venom enzyme is not only capable of clearing cell corpses but can aid in the demise of tumor cells that have initiated but not yet completed the death process.