bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Numerical Class of a Surface on a Toric Manifold
Authors: Sato Hiroshi
Published: May 2012

In this paper, we give a method to describe the numerical class of a torus invariant surface on a projective toric manifold. As applications, we can classify toric 2-Fano manifolds of the Picard number 2 or of dimension at most 4.
Upscaling of Permeability Field of Fractured Rock System: Numerical Examples
Authors: Bao Kai , Salama Amgad , Sun Shuyu
Published: May 2012

When the permeability field of a given porous medium domain is heterogeneous by the existence of randomly distributed fractures such that numerical investigation becomes cumbersome, another level of upscaling may be required. That is such complex permeability field could be relaxed (i.e., smoothed) by constructing an effective permeability field. The effective permeability field is an approximation to the real permeability field that preserves certain quantities and provides an overall acceptable description of the flow field. In this work, the effective permeability for a fractured rock system is obtained for different coarsening scenarios starting from very coarse mesh all the way towards the fine mesh simulation. In all these scenarios, the effective permeability as well as the pressure at each cell is obtained. The total flux at the exit boundary is calculated in all these cases, and very good agreement is obtained.
An Evaluation of an Integrated On-Chip/Off-Chip Network for High-Performance Reconfigurable Computing
Authors: Schmidt Andrew G. , Kritikos William V. , Gao Shanyuan , Sass Ron
Published: May 2012

As the number of cores per discrete integrated circuit (IC) device grows, the importance of the network on chip (NoC) increases. However, the body of research in this area has focused on discrete IC devices alone which may or may not serve the high-performance computing community which needs to assemble many of these devices into very large scale, parallel computing machines. This paper describes an integrated on-chip/off-chip network that has been implemented on an all-FPGA computing cluster. The system supports MPI-style point-to-point messages, collectives, and other novel communication. Results include the resource utilization and performance (in latency and bandwidth).
Nurse Faculty Enrichment and Competency Development in Oral-Systemic Health
Authors: Dolce Maria C.
Published: May 2012

Nurses are positioned to play a significant role in oral health promotion and disease prevention across the life cycle. Oral health has not been a high priority in nursing practice, and educating nurses about oral health has been inadequate particularly regarding the interrelationship between oral health and overall health. The first step for developing a nursing workforce with core competencies in oral health promotion and disease prevention is to prepare nurse faculty with the requisite knowledge, skills, attitudes, and best practices in oral-systemic health. The purpose of this paper is to presentSmiles for Life: A National Oral Health Curriculumas a knowledge framework that nurse faculty can use for faculty enrichment and competency development in oral health across the life cycle. A variety of teaching-learning strategies and resources are provided to assist nurse faculty with integrating oral-systemic health into existing nursing curricula.
Relationships between Depression and High Intellectual Potential
Authors: Weismann-Arcache Catherine , Tordjman Sylvie
Published: May 2012

This paper proposes to analyse the relationships between depression and high intellectual potential through a multidisciplinary and original approach. Based on their respective experience in psychology and child psychiatry, the authors will focus their analysis on creative potential. First, relationships between creativity (literary, artistic, or scientific creativity) and melancholy (“melancholy” comes from the Greek words for “black” (“melas”) and “bile” (“khole”)) will be examined from antiquity to modern times. Aristotle introduced a quantitative factor, asserting that levels of melancholy and black bile are positively correlated; however, under a given threshold of black bile, it can give rise to an exceptional being. Second, the case study of Blaise Pascal (scientific and philosophical creativity associated with major depressive episodes from childhood) will be presented and discussed. This case study sheds light on the paradoxical role of depression in the overinvestment in intellectual and creative spheres as well as on the impact of traumatic events on high intellectual potential. Third, observations will be reported based on a study conducted on 100 children with high intellectual potential (6–12 years old). Finally, based on these different levels of analysis, it appears that heterogeneity of mental functioning in children with high intellectual potential is at the center of the creative process and it has related psychological vulnerability.
Enhanced Visible Light Photocatalytic Activity ofV2O5Cluster Modified N-DopedTiO2for Degradation of Toluene in Air
Authors: Dong Fan , Sun Yanjuan , Fu Min
Published: May 2012

V2O5cluster-modified N-doped TiO2(N-TiO2/V2O5) nanocomposites photocatalyst was prepared by a facile impregnation-calcination method. The effects of V2O5cluster loading content on visible light photocatalytic activity of the as-prepared samples were investigated for degradation of toluene in air. The results showed that the visible light activity of N-doped TiO2was significantly enhanced by loading V2O5clusters. The optimal V2O5loading content was found to be 0.5 wt.%, reaching a removal ratio of 52.4% and a rate constant of 0.027 min−1, far exceeding that of unmodified N-doped TiO2. The enhanced activity is due to the deposition of V2O5clusters on the surface of N-doped TiO2. The conduction band (CB) potential of V2O5(0.48 eV) is lower than the CB level of N-doped TiO2(−0.19 V), which favors the photogenerated electron transfer from CB of N-doped TiO2to V2O5clusters. This function of V2O5clusters helps promote the transfer and separation of photogenerated electrons and holes. The present work not only displays a feasible route for the utilization of low cost V2O5clusters as a substitute for noble metals in enhancing the photocatalysis but also demonstrates a facile method for preparation of highly active composite photocatalyst for large-scale applications.
Ethanol Extract ofDianthus chinensisL. Induces Apoptosis in Human Hepatocellular Carcinoma HepG2 CellsIn Vitro
Authors: Nho Kyoung Jin , Chun Jin Mi , Kim Ho Kyoung
Published: May 2012

Dianthus chinensisL. is used to treat various diseases including cancer; however, the molecular mechanism by which the ethanol extract ofDianthus chinensisL. (EDCL) induces apoptosis is unknown. In this study, the apoptotic effects of EDCL were investigated in human HepG2 hepatocellular carcinoma cells. Treatment with EDCL significantly inhibited cell growth in a concentration- and time-dependent manner by inducing apoptosis. This induction was associated with chromatin condensation, activation of caspases, and cleavage of poly (ADP-ribose) polymerase protein. However, apoptosis induced by EDCL was attenuated by caspase inhibitor, indicating an important role for caspases in EDCL responses. Furthermore, EDCL did not alter the expression of bax in HepG2 cells but did selectively downregulate the expression of bcl-2 and bcl-xl, resulting in an increase in the ratio of bax:bcl-2 and bax:bcl-xl. These results support a mechanism whereby EDCL induces apoptosis through the mitochondrial pathway and caspase activation in HepG2 cells.
Strong Convergence Theorems for the Generalized Split Common Fixed Point Problem
Authors: Zhang Cuijie
Published: May 2012

We introduce the generalized split common fixed point problem (GSCFPP) and show that the GSCFPP for nonexpansive operators is equivalent to the common fixed point problem. Moreover, we introduce a new iterative algorithm for finding a solution of the GSCFPP and obtain some strong convergence theorems under suitable assumptions.
Relationship between the Presence of the nalC Mutation and Multidrug Resistance inPseudomonas aeruginosa
Authors: Sadeghifard Nourkhoda , Valizadeh Azar , Zolfaghary Mohammad Reza , Maleki Mohammad Hossien , Maleki Abbas , Mohebi Reza , Ghafourian Sobhan , Khosravi Afra
Published: May 2012

Objectives. The current study was conducted to determine the relationship between the presences of significant multidrug resistance inPseudomonas aeruginosa(P. aeruginosa) having intactmexRgenes (nalC) to different antibiotics.Methods. In order to identify nalC, fifty strains ofP. aeruginosawere obtained. All isolates were found in urinary tract infections. They were evaluated against different antibiotics. The nalC mutant was identified by PCR.Results. The 50 clinical isolates ofP. aeruginosaoriginated from two hospitals in Iran, in which 32 isolates were found in Milad hospital, and 18 isolates were collected in the Ilam Hospital. The results in Milad hospital of nalC revealed that allP. aeruginosaresistant to oxacillin showed the presence of nalC. In Ilam hospital only three (16.6%) isolates were resistant to oxacilin and aztreonam, and among these three isolates only one isolate revealed resistance to ceftazidime and amikacin. The resistant isolates showed the presence of both OXA-10 and nalC.Conclusion. Our results showed that the presence of nalC was observed amongP. aeruginosaresistance to oxacilin. Thus, the finding suggested relationship between oxacilin resistance and presence of nalC and consequently overproduction of the MexABOprM efflux system.
Korean Red Ginseng Improves Blood Pressure Stability in Patients with Intradialytic Hypotension
Authors: Chen I-Ju , Chang Ming-Yang , Chiao Sheng-Lin , Chen Jiun-Liang , Yu Chun-Chen , Yang Sien-Hung , Liu Ju-Mei , Hung Cheng-Chieh , Yang Rong-Chi , Chang Hui-Chi , Hsu Chung-Hua , Fang Ji-Tseng
Published: May 2012

Introduction. Intradialytic hypotension (IDH) is a common complication during hemodialysis which may increase mortality risks. Low dose of Korean red ginseng (KRG) has been reported to increase blood pressure. Whether KRG can improve hemodynamic stability during hemodialysis has not been examined.Methods. The 8-week study consisted of two phases: observation phase and active treatment phase. According to prehemodialysis blood pressure (BP), 38 patients with IDH were divided into group A (BP ≥ 140/90 mmHg,n= 18) and group B (BP < 140/90 mmHg,n= 20). Patients were instructed to chew 3.5 gm KRG slices at each hemodialysis session during the 4-week treatment phase. Blood pressure changes, number of sessions disturbed by symptomatic IDH, plasma levels of vasoconstrictors, blood biochemistry, and adverse effects were recorded.Results. KRG significantly reduced the degree of blood pressure drop during hemodialysis (P<0.05) and the frequency of symptomatic IDH (P<0.05). More activation of vasoconstrictors (endothelin-1 and angiotensin II) during hemodialysis was found. The postdialytic levels of endothelin-1 and angiotensin II increased significantly (P<0.01).Conclusion. Chewing KRG renders IDH patients better resistance to acute BP reduction during hemodialysis via activation of vasoconstrictors. Our results suggest that KRG could be an adjuvant treatment for IDH.
Binuclear Cu(II) and Co(II) Complexes of Tridentate Heterocyclic Shiff Base Derived from Salicylaldehyde with 4-Aminoantipyrine
Authors: Al-Obaidi Omar Hamad Shihab
Published: May 2012

New binuclear Co(II) and Co(II) complexes of ONO tridentate heterocyclic Schiff base derived from 4-aminoantipyrine with salicylaldehyde have been synthesized and characterized on the bases of elemental analysis, UV-Vis., FT-IR, and also by aid of molar conductivity measurements, magnetic measurements, and melting points. It has been found that the Schiff bases with Cu(II) or Co(II) ion forming binuclear complexes on (1 : 1) “metal : ligand” stoichiometry. The molar conductance measurements of the complexes in DMSO correspond to be nonelectrolytic nature for all prepared complexes. Distorted octahedral environment is suggested for metal complexes. A theoretical treatment of the formation of complexes in the gas phase was studied, and this was done by using the HyperChem-6 program for the molecular mechanics and semi-empirical calculations. The free ligand and its complexes have been tested for their antibacterial activities against two types of human pathogenic bacteria: the first type (Staphylococcus aureus) is Gram positiveandthe second type (Escherichia coli) is Gram negative (by using agar well diffusion method). Finally, it was found that compounds show different activity of inhibition on growth of the bacteria.
Kinetic Study of Organic Dye Degradation Using ZnO Particles with Different Morphologies as a Photocatalyst
Authors: Pung Swee-Yong , Lee Wen-Pei , Aziz Azizan
Published: May 2012

Zinc oxide (ZnO) particles were successfully synthesized via sol-gel approach using zinc acetate dihydrate (Zn(CH3COO)2·2H2O) and ammonia (NH4OH) solution as precursors. By adjusting the reaction parameters such as amount of ammonia and reaction time as well as complexing agent aluminium sulphate Al2(SO4)3, ZnO particles with different morphologies, that is, rodlike, ricelike and disklike could be synthesized. The effectiveness of ZnO particles with different morphologies (rodlike, ricelike and disklike) on the photocatalytic activity has been studied. The results showed that rodlike ZnO particles were the most effective in degrading the Rhodamine B (RhB) solution under the illumination of ultraviolet (UV) light. The rate constant was found to be first order, with rodlike particles the highest (0.06329 min−1), followed by rice-like ZnO particles (0.0431 min−1) and disk-like ZnO particles (0.02448 min−1).
Synthesis and Characterization of Iron Oxide Nanoparticles and Applications in the Removal of Heavy Metals from Industrial Wastewater
Authors: Cheng Zuolian , Tan Annie Lai Kuan , Tao Yong , Shan Dan , Ting Kok Eng , Yin Xi Jiang
Published: May 2012

This study investigated the applicability of maghemite (γ-Fe2O3) nanoparticles for the selective removal of toxic heavy metals from electroplating wastewater. The maghemite nanoparticles of 60 nm were synthesized using a coprecipitation method and characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) equipped with energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX). Batch experiments were carried out for the removal of Pb2+ions from aqueous solutions by maghemite nanoparticles. The effects of contact time, initial concentration of Pb2+ions, solution pH, and salinity on the amount of Pb2+removed were investigated. The adsorption process was found to be highly pH dependent, which made the nanoparticles selectively adsorb this metal from wastewater. The adsorption of Pb2+reached equilibrium rapidly within 15 min and the adsorption data were well fitted with the Langmuir isotherm.
Preparation and Characterization of Visible-Light-Activated Fe-N Co-Doped TiO2and Its Photocatalytic Inactivation Effect on Leukemia Tumors
Authors: Huang Kangqiang , Chen Li , Xiong Jianwen , Liao Meixiang
Published: May 2012

The Fe-N co-doped TiO2nanocomposites were synthesized by a sol-gel method and characterized by scanning electron microscope (SEM), transmission electron microscope (TEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD), ultraviolet-visible absorption spectroscopy (UV-vis) and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS). Then the photocatalytic inactivation of Fe-N-doped TiO2on leukemia tumors was investigated by using Cell Counting Kit-8 (CCK-8) assay. Additionally, the ultrastructural morphology and apoptotic percentage of treated cells were also studied. The experimental results showed that the growth of leukemic HL60 cells was significantly inhibited in groups treated with TiO2nanoparticles and the photocatalytic activity of Fe-N-TiO2was significantly higher than that of Fe-TiO2and N-TiO2, indicating that the photocatalytic efficiency could be effectively enhanced by the modification of Fe-N. Furthermore, when 2 wt% Fe-N-TiO2nanocomposites at a final concentration of 200 μg/mL were used, the inactivation efficiency of 78.5% was achieved after 30-minute light therapy.
Hemangiomas and Vascular Malformations: Current Theory and Management
Authors: Richter Gresham T. , Friedman Adva B.
Published: May 2012

Vascular anomalies are a heterogeneous group of congenital blood vessel disorders more typically referred to as birthmarks. Subcategorized into vascular tumors and malformations, each anomaly is characterized by specific morphology, pathophysiology, clinical behavior, and management approach. Hemangiomas are the most common vascular tumor. Lymphatic, capillary, venous, and arteriovenous malformations make up the majority of vascular malformations. This paper reviews current theory and practice in the etiology, diagnosis, and treatment of these more common vascular anomalies.
On a Correlation between the Ionospheric Electric Field and the Time Derivative of the Magnetic Field
Authors: Ilma R. R. , Kelley M. C. , Gonzales C. A.
Published: May 2012

A correlation of the ionospheric electric field and the time derivative of the magnetic field was noticed over thirty years ago and has yet to be explained. Here we report on another set of examples during the superstorm of November 2004. The electric field in the equatorial ionosphere, measured with the Jicamarca incoherent scatter radar, exhibited a 3 mV/m electric field pulse that was not seen in the interplanetary medium. It was, however, accompanied by a correlation with the time derivative of the magnetic field measured at two points in Peru. Our inclination was to assume that the field was inductive. However, the time scale of the pulse was too short for the magnetic field to penetrate the crust of the Earth. This means that the area threaded by∂B/∂twas too small to create the observed electric field by induction. We suggest that the effect was caused by a modulation of the ring current location relative to the Earth due to the electric field. This electric field is required, as the magnetic field lines are considered frozen into the plasma in the magnetosphere. The closer location of the ring current to the Earth in turn increased the magnetic field at the surface.
Nanomaterials for the Local and Targeted Delivery of Osteoarthritis Drugs
Authors: Chinnagounder Periyasamy Parthiban , Leijten Jeroen C. H. , Dijkstra Pieter J. , Karperien Marcel , Post Janine N.
Published: May 2012

Nanotechnology has found its potential in every possible field of science and engineering. It offers a plethora of options to design tools at the nanometer scale, which can be expected to function more effectively than micro‐ and macrosystems for specific applications. Although the debate regarding the safety of synthetic nanomaterials for clinical applications endures, it is a promising technology due to its potential to augment current treatments. Various materials such as synthetic polymer, biopolymers, or naturally occurring materials such as proteins and peptides can serve as building blocks for adaptive nanoscale formulations. The choice of materials depends highly on the application. We focus on the use of nanoparticles for the treatment of degenerative cartilage diseases, such as osteoarthritis (OA). Current therapies for OA focus on treating the symptoms rather than modifying the disease. The usefulness of OA disease modifying drugs is hampered by side effects and lack of suitable drug delivery systems that target, deliver, and retain drugs locally. This challenge can be overcome by using nanotechnological formulations. We describe the different nanodrug delivery systems and their potential for cartilage repair. This paper provides the reader basal understanding of nanomaterials and aims at drawing new perspectives on the use of existing nanotechnological formulations for the treatment of osteoarthritis.
Change in Ratio of Observed-to-Expected Deaths in Pediatric Patients after Implementing a Closed Policy in an Adult ICU That Admits Children
Authors: Ueno Yoshitoyo , Imanaka Hideaki , Oto Jun , Nishimura Masaji
Published: May 2012

Backgrounds. We examined the effect on the prognosis of critically ill pediatric patients after a closed ICU policy was implemented into an adult ICU that admitted children.Materials and Methods. We assessed the Pediatric Index of Mortality 2 (PIM2) score of pediatric patients (≤15 y.o.) admitted to the ICU from 2001 to 2009. In our teaching hospital, the department for intensive care was established in January 2004. Since then, for critical care patients, we have followed a closed ICU policy with full-time intensivists. We subsequently compared PIM2 scores and the ratio of observed-to-expected deaths (O/E ratio) for three three-year periods: 2001–2003 (before closed policy), 2004–2006, and 2007–2009.Results. Data was collected from 532 pediatric patients. While the PIM2 score statistically significantly increased from0.066±0.130for 2001–2003 to0.114±0.239for 2004–2006 and0.086±0.147for 2007–2009, the O/E ratio decreased from 1.49 for 2001–2003 to 0.82 for 2004–2006 and remained at 0.82 for 2007–2009.Conclusion. The O/E ratio for critically ill pediatric patients improved after the establishment of a closed policy in an adult ICU that admitted children.
Mannan-Binding Lectin in Diabetic Kidney Disease: The Impact of Mouse Genetics in a Type 1 Diabetes Model
Authors: Østergaard Jakob Appel , Bjerre Mette , RamachandraRao Satish Posettihalli , Sharma Kumar , Nyengaard Jens Randel , Hansen Troels Krarup , Thiel Steffen , Flyvbjerg Allan
Published: May 2012

Background. Mannan-binding lectin (MBL) is involved in the development of diabetic nephropathy. MBL is a part of the innate immune system where it can activate the complement system. Serum MBL level predicts later renal impairment in diabetes patients. Direct involvement of MBL in the development of diabetic kidney disease is observed in one animal strain. However, this involvement may differ among the animal strains. We thus examined the impact of the genetic background on the role of MBL in diabetic nephropathy.Materials/Methods. C57BL/6JBomTac and 129S6/SvEvTac mice were compared. In both strains, experimental type 1 diabetes was induced in wild-type (WT) and MBL-knockout (MBL-KO) mice by streptozotocin. Nondiabetic WT and MBL-KO mice were used as controls. We tested if MBL modified the diabetes-induced kidney changes by two-way ANOVA allowing for interaction.Results. MBL aggravated diabetes-induced kidney growth and glomerulus enlargement in C57BL/6JBomTac mice. MBL did not modify diabetes effects on glomerular basement membrane thickness or mesangial volume in any strain. Diabetes-induced changes in renal gene transcription of growth factors and matrix components were unaffected by MBL.Conclusions. Strain-specific MBL effects were found on downstream diabetic kidney changes. This emphasizes the importance of genetic background in this model of diabetic complications.
Valorization of Agroindustrial Wastes as Biosorbent for the Removal of Textile Dyes from Aqueous Solutions
Authors: Contreras Elsa , Sepúlveda Luisa , Palma Carolyn
Published: May 2012

The goal is to determinate the technical feasibility of using agroindustrial wastes for adsorption of dyes. The pHpzcof Brewer’s spent grains and Orange peel is 5.3 and 3.5, respectively. The equilibrium isotherms of Basic Blue 41, Reactiive Black 5, and Acid Black 1 were carried out without pHs control which ranging between 4 and 5.5. The equilibrium concentrations for both adsorbents were fitted by the Freundlich and Langmuir models. The maximum adsorption capacity measured for Basic Blue 41, Reactive Black 5, and Acid Black 1 was 32.4, 22.3, and 19.8 mg g-1for Brewer’s spent grains; and 157, 62.6, and 45.5 for orange peel, respectively. The kinetic of process was fitted by the model of pseudo-second order. The constant rate for orange peel decreased to extend the initial concentration of dye increased, obtaining 4.08 * 10−3−0.6 * 10−3(Basic Blue 41), 2.98 * 10−3−0.36 * 10−3(Acid Black 1), and 3.40 * 10−3−0.46 * 10−3 g mg−1 min−1(Reactive Black 5). The best removal efficiency was obtained in orange peel with values started from 63% to 20%. Consequently, according the results obtained there are two positive effects, the reuse of agricultural wastes and its use as low-cost adsorbent of the dyes.
On Bounded Satellite Motion under Constant Radial Propulsive Acceleration
Authors: San-Juan Juan F. , López Luis M. , Lara Martin
Published: May 2012

The Hamiltonian formulation of the constant radial propulsive acceleration problem in nondimensional units reveals that the problem does not depend on any physical parameter. The qualitative description of the integrable flow is given in terms of the energy and the angular momentum, showing that the different regimes are the result of a bifurcation phenomenon. The solution via the Hamilton‐Jacobi equation demonstrates that the elliptic integrals of the three kinds are intrinsic to the problem.
General Existence Results for Third‐Order Nonconvex State‐Dependent Sweeping Process with Unbounded Perturbations
Authors: Bounkhel M. , Al-Senan B.
Published: May 2012

We prove the existence of solutions for third‐order nonconvex state‐dependent sweeping process with unbounded perturbations of the form: ;, , a.e.    t ∈ [0, T], , , where T > 0, K is a nonconvex Lipschitz set‐valued mapping, F is an unbounded scalarly upper semicontinuous convex set‐valued mapping, and G is an unbounded uniformly continuous nonconvex set‐valued mapping in a separable Hilbert space ℍ.
Morphing of Bistable Composite Laminates Using Distributed Piezoelectric Actuators
Authors: Dano Marie-Laure , Jean-St-Laurent Mathilde , Fecteau Adam
Published: May 2012

The use of bistable unsymmetric cross-ply laminates for morphing application has received growing attention in the last few years. So far, most studies use large rectangular piezoelectric Macro Fiber Composite (MFC) patches bonded at the center of the laminate to induce snap-through. However, the use of large rectangular MFC patches bonded in the center of the laminates significantly influences the shape of the laminate by greatly reducing the curvature at the midsection of the laminate where the MFC patches are bonded. This paper presents a study where narrow cocured MFC strips distributed over the entire surface are used to induce snap-through of unsymmetric cross-ply laminates. This MFC configuration allows having a more uniform curvature in the laminate. Since the strips are bonded on both sides, reverse snap-through should be obtained. The study was both theoretical and experimental. A finite element nonlinear analysis was used to predict the two stable cylindrical configurations and the snap-through induced by MFC actuation. For the experimental study, a laminate-MFC structure was manufactured and tested. The shapes were measured using a 3D image correlation system as a function of applied voltage. Good correlations for the cylindrical shape and displacement field were observed.
Small Molecule Drug Discovery at the Glucagon-Like Peptide-1 Receptor
Authors: Willard Francis S. , Bueno Ana B. , Sloop Kyle W.
Published: May 2012

The therapeutic success of peptide glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonists for the treatment of type 2 diabetes mellitus has inspired discovery efforts aimed at developing orally available small molecule GLP-1 receptor agonists. Although the GLP-1 receptor is a member of the structurally complex class B1 family of GPCRs, in recent years, a diverse array of orthosteric and allosteric nonpeptide ligands has been reported. These compounds include antagonists, agonists, and positive allosteric modulators with intrinsic efficacy. In this paper, a comprehensive review of currently disclosed small molecule GLP-1 receptor ligands is presented. In addition, examples of “ligand bias” and “probe dependency” for the GLP-1 receptor are discussed; these emerging concepts may influence further optimization of known molecules or persuade designs of expanded screening strategies to identify novel chemical starting points for GLP-1 receptor drug discovery.
Mathematical and Dynamic Analysis of a Prey‐Predator Model in the Presence of Alternative Prey with Impulsive State Feedback Control
Authors: Dai Chuanjun , Zhao Min
Published: May 2012

The dynamic complexities of a prey‐predator system in the presence of alternative prey with impulsive state feedback control are studied analytically and numerically. By using the analogue of the Poincaré criterion, sufficient conditions for the existence and stability of semitrivial periodic solutions can be obtained. Furthermore, the corresponding bifurcation diagrams and phase diagrams are investigated by means of numerical simulations which illustrate the feasibility of the main results.
The Comparison of Biocompatibility Properties between Ti Alloys and Fluorinated Diamond-Like Carbon Films
Authors: Jongwannasiri Chavin , Moolsradoo Nutthanun , Khantachawana Anak , Kaewtatip Pongpan , Watanabe Shuichi
Published: May 2012

Titanium and titanium alloys have found several applications in the biomedical field due to their unique biocompatibility. However, there are problems associated with these materials in applications in which there is direct contact with blood, for instance, thrombogenesis and protein adsorption. Surface modification is one of the effective methods used to improve the performance of Ti and Ti alloys in these circumstances. In this study, fluorinated diamond-like carbon (F-DLC) films are chosen to take into account the biocompatible properties compared with Ti alloys. F-DLC films were prepared on NiTi substrates by a plasma-based ion implantation (PBII) technique using acetylene (C2H2) and tetrafluoromethane (CF4) as plasma sources. The structure of the films was characterized by Raman spectroscopy. The contact angle and surface energy were also measured. Protein adsorption was performed by treating the films with bovine serum albumin and fibrinogen. The electrochemical corrosion behavior was investigated in Hanks’ solution by means of a potentiodynamic polarization technique. Cytotoxicity tests were performed using MTT assay and dyed fluorescence. The results indicate that F-DLC films present their hydrophobic surfaces due to a high contact angle and low surface energy. These films can support the higher albumin-to-fibrinogen ratio as compared to Ti alloys. They tend to suppress the platelet adhesion. Furthermore, F-DLC films exhibit better corrosion resistance and less cytotoxicity on their surfaces. It can be concluded that F-DLC films can improve the biocompatibility properties of Ti alloys.
Epigenetic Dysregulation in Laryngeal Squamous Cell Carcinoma
Authors: Wong Thian-Sze , Gao Wei , Li Zeng-Hong , Chan Jimmy Yu-Wai , Ho Wai-Kuen
Published: May 2012

Laryngeal carcinoma is a common head and neck cancer with poor prognosis. Patients with laryngeal carcinoma usually present late leading to the reduced treatment efficacy and high rate of recurrence. Despite the advance in the use of molecular markers for monitoring human cancers in the past decades, there are still no reliable markers for use to screen laryngeal carcinoma and follow the patients after treatment. Epigenetics emerged as an important field in understanding the biology of the human malignancies. Epigenetic alterations refer to the dysregulation of gene, which do not involve the alterations of the DNA sequence. Major epigenetic changes including methylation imbalance, histone modification, and small RNA dysregulation could play a role in the development of human malignancies. Global epigenetic change is now regarded as a molecular signature of cancer. The characteristics and behavior of a cancer could be predicted based on the specific epigenetic pattern. We here provide a review on the understanding of epigenetic dysregulation in laryngeal carcinoma. Further knowledge on the initiation and progression of laryngeal carcinoma at epigenetic level could promote the translation of the knowledge to clinical use.
Evolution of Lysine Biosynthesis in the Phylum Deinococcus-Thermus
Authors: Nishida Hiromi , Nishiyama Makoto
Published: May 2012

Thermus thermophilus biosynthesizes lysine through the α-aminoadipate (AAA) pathway: this observation was the first discovery of lysine biosynthesis through the AAA pathway in archaea and bacteria. Genes homologous to the T. thermophilus lysine biosynthetic genes are widely distributed in bacteria of the Deinococcus-Thermus phylum. Our phylogenetic analyses strongly suggest that a common ancestor of the Deinococcus-Thermus phylum had the ancestral genes for bacterial lysine biosynthesis through the AAA pathway. In addition, our findings suggest that the ancestor lacked genes for lysine biosynthesis through the diaminopimelate (DAP) pathway. Interestingly, Deinococcus proteolyticus does not have the genes for lysine biosynthesis through the AAA pathway but does have the genes for lysine biosynthesis through the DAP pathway. Phylogenetic analyses of D. proteolyticus lysine biosynthetic genes showed that the key gene cluster for the DAP pathway was transferred horizontally from a phylogenetically distant organism.
Psoriatic Disease and Tuberculosis Nowadays
Authors: Balato Nicola , Di Costanzo Luisa , Ayala Fabio , Balato Anna , Sanduzzi Alessandro , Bocchino Marialuisa
Published: May 2012

Psoriasis is a chronic, relapsing and remitting inflammatory skin and joint disease that has a prevalence of 2-3% in the world’s population, whereas of 1–2% in Europe. The traditional concept of psoriasis as the “healthy people’s” disease has been recently revised because of ever-increasing reports of associations with various pathological conditions (hypertension, Crohn’s disease, type II diabetes mellitus, obesity, dyslipidemia, metabolic syndrome, infectious conditions). Particularly, advances in psoriasis therapies have introduced biologic agents. All the tumor necrosis factor-alpha inhibitors are associated with an increased risk of developing active disease in patients with latent tuberculosis infection, because of TNF-αkey role againstMycobacterium tuberculosis. For this reason, exclusion of active tuberculosis and treatment of latent tuberculosis infection are clinical imperatives prior to starting this therapy. Moreover active surveillance for a history of untreated or partially treated tuberculosis or latent form has already been shown to be effective in reducing the number of incident tuberculosis cases.
Bile Duct Leaks from the Intrahepatic Biliary Tree: A Review of Its Etiology, Incidence, and Management
Authors: Kapoor Sorabh , Nundy Samiran
Published: May 2012

Bile leaks from the intrahepatic biliary tree are an important cause of morbidity following hepatic surgery and trauma. Despite reduction in mortality for hepatic surgery in the last 2 decades, bile leaks rates have not changed significantly. In addition to posted operative bile leaks, leaks may occur following drainage of liver abscess and tumor ablation. Most bile leaks from the intrahepatic biliary tree are transient and managed conservatively by drainage alone or endoscopic biliary decompression. Selected cases may require reoperation and enteric drainage or liver resection for management.
Image Denoising Based on Dilated Singularity Prior
Authors: Hu Shaoxiang , Liao Zhiwu , Chen Wufan
Published: May 2012

In order to preserve singularities in denoising, we propose a new scheme
by adding dilated singularity prior to noisy images. The singularities are detected by
canny operator firstly and then dilated using mathematical morphology for finding
pixels “near” singularities instead of “on” singularities. The denoising results for pixels
near singularities are obtained by nonlocal means in spatial domain to preserve singularities
while the denoising results for pixels in smooth regions are obtained by EM
algorithm constrained by a mask formed by downsampled spatial image with dilated
singularity prior to suiting the sizes of the subbands of wavelets. The final denoised results
are got by combining the above two results. Experimental results show that the scheme
can preserve singularity well with relatively high PSNR and good visual quality.
Ion Channels and Zinc: Mechanisms of Neurotoxicity and Neurodegeneration
Authors: Morris Deborah R. , Levenson Cathy W.
Published: May 2012

Ionotropic glutamate receptors, such as NMDA, AMPA and kainate receptors, are ligand-gated ion channels that mediate much of the excitatory neurotransmission in the brain. Not only do these receptors bind glutamate, but they are also regulated by and facilitate the postsynaptic uptake of the trace metal zinc. This paper discusses the role of the excitotoxic influx and accumulation of zinc, the mechanisms responsible for its cytotoxicity, and a number of disorders of the central nervous system that have been linked to these neuronal ion channels and zinc toxicity including ischemic brain injury, traumatic brain injury, and epilepsy.
Existence of Solution to a Second‐Order Boundary Value Problem via Noncompactness Measures
Authors: Zhou Wen-Xue , Peng Jigen
Published: May 2012

The existence and uniqueness of the solutions to the Dirichlet boundary value problem in the Banach spaces is discussed by using the fixed point theory of condensing mapping, doing precise computation of measure of noncompactness, and calculating the spectral radius of linear operator.
Optimization of the Nutritional Parameters for Enhanced Production of B. subtilis SPB1 Biosurfactant in Submerged Culture Using Response Surface Methodology
Authors: Mnif Ines , Chaabouni-Ellouze Semia , Ghribi Dhouha
Published: May 2012

Nutritional requirements can contribute considerably to the production cost and the bioprocess economics. Media optimisation using response surface methodology is one of the used methods to ameliorate the bioprocess economics. In the present study, biosurfactant production by Bacillus subtilis SPB1 was effectively enhanced by response surface methodology. A Plackett-Burman-based statistical screening procedure was adopted to determine the most important factor affecting lipopeptide production. Eleven variables are screened and results show that glucose, K2HPO4, and urea concentrations influence the most biosurfactant production. A Central Composite Design was conducted to optimize the three selected factors. Statistical analyses of the data of model fitting were done by using NemrodW. Results show a maximum predicted biosurfactant concentration of 2.93 (±0.32) g/L when using 15 g/L glucose, 6 g/L urea, and 1 g/L K2HPO4. The predicted value is approximately 1.65 much higher than the original production determined by the conventional one-factor-at-a-time optimization method.
Location Updating Schemes for High‐Speed Railway Cellular Communication Systems
Authors: Wu Hao , Wang Tao , Zhong Zhangdui
Published: May 2012

High‐speed railway private cellular network provides voice and data services for passengers. It brings much signaling cost as a great many of mobile subscribers ask for location updating simultaneously. Moreover, it leads to plenty of control signaling channel requests. This paper presents two novel location updating schemes, that is, “clustering location management” and “mobile group location management” to solve the problems caused by the existing location updating scheme in high speed railway cellular private network. These two schemes can realize location updating without occupying more frequency resources. In addition, it does not impact the mobile subscribers’ paging. Then it analyses the performance of two improved schemes, such as channel request number of stand‐alone dedicated control channel (SDCCH), average waiting time of location updating, cost of location updating, and paging. The result indicates that both schemes can utilize the SDCCH channel resource effectively.
Thrombotic Microangiopathy with Skin Localization Secondary to Cytarabine-Daunorubicin Association: Report of a Case
Authors: Regragui S. , Amelal S. , Astati S. , Zine M. , Alami Drideb N. , Al Bouzidi A. , Messaoudi N. , Benkirane M. , Doghmi K. , Mikdame M.
Published: May 2012

The thrombotic microangiopathy is a syndrome characterized by the combination of mechanical hemolytic anemia, peripheral thrombocytopenia, and organ failure of variable severity. In addition to the idiopathic form, several cases are identified as secondary to pregnancy, infections, disease systems, organ transplants, and cancer. Other forms are secondary to drugs including antimitotics. We report the case of a patient followed for acute myelogenous leukemia. She received induction chemotherapy combining daunorubicin and cytarabine, complicated by thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura.
Immunogenic Targets for Specific Immunotherapy in Multiple Myeloma
Authors: Zhang Lu , Götz Marlies , Hofmann Susanne , Greiner Jochen
Published: May 2012

Multiple myeloma remains an incurable disease although the prognosis has been improved by novel therapeutics and agents recently. Relapse occurs in the majority of patients and becomes fatal finally. Immunotherapy might be a powerful intervention to maintain a long-lasting control of minimal residual disease or to even eradicate disseminated tumor cells. Several tumor-associated antigens have been identified in patients with multiple myeloma. These antigens are expressed in a tumor-specific or tumor-restricted pattern, are able to elicit immune response, and thus could serve as targets for immunotherapy. This review discusses immunogenic antigens with therapeutic potential for multiple myeloma.
Sarcopenic Obesity and Cognitive Functioning: The Mediating Roles of Insulin Resistance and Inflammation?
Authors: Levine M. E. , Crimmins E. M.
Published: May 2012

This study examined the influence of insulin resistance and inflammation on the association between body composition and cognitive performance in older adults, aged 60–69 and aged 70 and older. Subjects included 1127 adults from NHANES 1999–2002. Body composition was categorized based on measurements of muscle mass and waist circumference as sarcopenic nonobese, nonsarcopenic obese, sarcopenic obese, and normal. Using OLS regression models, our findings suggest body composition is not associated with cognitive functioning in adults ages 60–69; however, for adults aged 70 and over, sarcopenia and obesity, either independently or concurrently, were associated with worse cognitive functioning relative to non-sarcopenic non-obese older adults. Furthermore, insulin resistance accounted for a significant proportion of the relationship between cognitive performance and obesity, with or without sarcopenia. Additionally, although high CRP was significantly associated with poorer cognitive functioning in adults ages 60–69, it did not influence the association between body composition and cognitive performance. This study provides evidence that age-related physiological maladaptations, such as metabolic deregulation, which are associated with abdominal fat, may simultaneously contribute to lower cognition and muscle mass, reflecting a degradation of multiple physiological systems.
Mutation in the Prothrombin Gene G20210A as a Cause of Cerebral Venous Thrombosis
Authors: Arroyave Jorge A. , Quiñones Jairo
Published: May 2012

Introduction. Cerebral venous sinus thrombosis (CVST) is a rare form of cerebrovascular disease, which may manifest clinically by a wide variety of signs and symptoms. It has been associated with multiple risk factors including genetic or acquired blood disorders, infections, and trauma.Case Report. Man of 17 years who presented with 10 days of intense global headache with nausea and vomiting and subsequent onset of mild hemiparesis and hypoesthesia in right hemibody. Studies show venous thrombosis of the superior longitudinal sinus. It was identified a gene mutation in prothrombin G20210A as a probable cause of the thrombosis.Conclusions. Substitution of guanine for adenine at nucleotide 20210 in the coding region of the prothrombin gene is the second most common primary thrombophilia. Multiple cases of CVST have been associated with this mutation. In the presence of CVST must be considered the primary studies for thrombophilia gene mutations, including prothrombin G20210A.
Regulation of Proinflammatory Mediators via NF-κB and p38 MAPK-Dependent Mechanisms in RAW 264.7 Macrophages by Polyphenol Components Isolated from KoreaLonicera japonica THUNB
Authors: Park Kwang-Il , Kang Sang-Rim , Park Hyeon-Soo , Lee Do Hoon , Nagappan Arulkumar , Kim Jin A , Shin Sung Chul , Kim Eun Hee , Lee Won Sup , Chung Hyon-Jong , An Su Jin , Kim Gon Sup
Published: May 2012

Lonicera japonica THUNB., which abundantly contains polyphenols, has been used as a traditional medicine for thousands of years in East Asian countries because of the anti-inflammation properties. This study aimed to investigate the anti-inflammatory mechanism of polyphenol components isolated from KoreaL. japonica T.by nuclear factor-kappaB (NF-κB) and mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPKs) pathway. Polyphenols significantly decreased lipopolysaccharide- (LPS-) induced mRNA and protein expression of inducible nitric oxide synthase and cyclooxygenase-2, as well as mRNA expression of tumor necrosis factor-alpha, interleukin- (IL-) 1β, and IL-6. Moreover, polyphenols inhibited nuclear translocation of NF-κB p65, phosphorylation/degradation of the inhibitor ofκB, and phosphorylation of p38 MAPK, whereas the extracellular signal-regulated kinase and Janus N-terminal kinase were not affected. These results indicate that polyphenol components isolated from KoreaL. japonica T.should have anti-inflammatory effect on LPS-stimulated RAW 264.7 cells through the decrease of proinflammatory mediators expression by suppressing NF-κB and p38 MAPK activity.
Electrospun Polyamide 4.6 Nanofibrous Nonwovens: Parameter Study and Characterization
Authors: De Schoenmaker Bert , Van der Schueren Lien , Ceylan Özgür , De Clerck Karen
Published: May 2012

The aliphatic polyamide 4.6 (PA 4.6) has unique properties compared to the commonly used polyamides 6 (PA 6) and 6.6 (PA 6.6). The purpose of this paper is to produce uniform and reproducible nanofibrous PA 4.6 structures. Therefore, a mixture of the solvent formic acid and the nonsolvent acetic acid is used to dissolve and electrospin the PA 4.6. First the steady‐state behaviour of the process and the boundary limits of the solution parameters needed for steady‐state electrospinning are investigated. Subsequently, the effect of several solution and process parameters on the fibre morphology is examined, using microscopic techniques and thermal analysis. The polyamide concentration is found to be the dominant parameter affecting the fibre diameter and morphology. Furthermore, tensile tests are performed on upscaled nanofibrous structures and electrospun under optimised steady‐state conditions. It is shown that the PA 4.6 nanofibrous structures, compared to nanofibrous nonwovens of PA 6 and PA 6.6, have a higher stress and strain at break.
Influence of Magnesium Substitution on Thermal and Electrical Properties of NiCuZn Ferrites for Microinductor Core Applications
Authors: Venkata Ramana M. , Ramamanohar Reddy N. , Siva kumar K. V.
Published: May 2012

Two series of NiMgCuZn ferrites, that is, (1) NixMg0.6−xCu0.1Zn0.3Fe2O4 and sample G: Ni0.3Mg0.3−yCu0.1Zn0.5−yFe2O4 with x=0.0, 0.1, 0.2, 0.3 and (2) NixMg0.6−xCu0.1Zn0.3Fe2O4 with y=0.0, 0.1, 0.2 were synthesized and prepared by conventional ceramic double-sintering process and to use them as core materials for microinductor applications. The formation of single phase was confirmed by X-ray diffraction. The temperature and compositional variation of DC, AC electrical conductivities (σ) and thermoelectric power (α) were studied on these two series of polycrystalline ferrospinels. The studies were carried out in wide range of temperature from 30 to 350°C. On the basis of thermoelectric study, the ferrites under present work were found to be shown as n-type and p-type transition. The electrical conduction in these ferrospinels is explained in the light of polaron hopping mechanism. These ferrite compositions have been developed for their use as core materials for microinductor applications.