bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
The effects of low-dose Nepsilon-(carboxymethyl)lysine (CML) and Nepsilon-(carboxyethyl)lysine (CEL), two main glycation free adducts considered as potential uremic toxins, on endothelial progenitor cell function
Authors: Zhu Jinzhou , Yang Ke , Jing Yajun , Du Run , Zhu Zhenbin , Lu Lin , Zhang Ruiyan 
Published: August 2012

Abstract

Background
Patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD) are at high risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD). Endothelial progenitor cell (EPCs) dysfunction plays a key role in this pathogenesis. Uremic retention toxins have been reported to be in associated with EPC dysfunction. Advanced glycation end-products (AGEs) free adducts, including Nepsilon-(carboxymethyl)lysine (CML) and Nepsilon-(carboxyethyl)lysine (CEL), are formed by physiological proteolysis of AGEs and released into plasma for urinary excretion. They are retained in CKD patients and are considered to be potential uremic toxins. Though AGEs have been demonstrated to impair EPC function in various ways, the effect of AGE free adducts on EPC function has not been studied. Thus, we examined the role of CML and CEL in the regulation of growth-factor-dependent function in cultured human EPCs and the mechanisms by which they may affect EPC function.

Methods
Late outgrowth EPCs were incubated with different concentrations of CML or CEL for up to 72 hours. Cell proliferation was determined using WST-1 and BrdU assays. Cell apoptosis was tested with annexin V staining. Migration and tube formation assays were used to evaluate EPC function.

Results
Though CML and CEL were determined to have anti-proliferative effects on EPCs, cells treated with concentrations of CML and CEL in the range found in CKD patients had no observable impairment on migration or tube formation. CML and CEL did not induce EPC apoptosis. The reduced growth response was accompanied by significantly less phosphorylation of mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPKs).

Conclusions
Our study revealed that CML and CEL at uremic concentrations have low biological toxicity when separately tested. The biologic effects of AGE free adducts on the cardiovascular system merit further study.
Microwave characterisation of carbon nanotube powders
Authors: Porch Adrian , Odili Daniel I , Childs Peter A 
Published: August 2012

Abstract
We have used a 3-GHz microwave host cavity to study the remarkable electronic properties of metallic, single-walled carbon nanotubes. Powder samples are placed in its magnetic field antinode, which induces microwave currents without the need for electrical contacts. Samples are shown to screen effectively the microwave magnetic field, implying an extremely low value of sheet resistance (< 10 μΩ) within the graphene sheets making up the curved nanotube walls. Associated microwave losses are large due to the large surface area, and also point to a similar, very small value of sheet resistance due to the inherent ballistic electron transport.
Erratum to Fixed point theorems for contraction mappings in modular metric spaces, Fixed Point Theory Appl. 2011, 2011:93
Authors: Mongkolkeha Chirasak , Sintunavarat Wutiphol , Kumam Poom 
Published: August 2012

Abstract
This article is written due to a small gap in our published paper. In this erratum, we point out and fix the problem to set our existed results at the best of their perfection.
Atlas-based white matter analysis in individuals with velo-cardio-facial syndrome (22q11.2 deletion syndrome) and unaffected siblings
Authors: Radoeva Petya D , Coman Ioana L , Antshel Kevin M , Fremont Wanda , McCarthy Christopher S , Kotkar Ashwini , Wang Dongliang , Shprintzen Robert J , Kates Wendy R 
Published: August 2012

AbstractBackgroundVelo-cardio-facial syndrome (VCFS, MIM#192430, 22q11.2 Deletion Syndrome) is a genetic disorder caused by a deletion of about 40 genes at the q11.2 band of one copy of chromosome 22. Individuals with VCFS present with deficits in cognition and social functioning, high risk of psychiatric disorders, volumetric reductions in gray and white matter (WM) and some alterations of the WM microstructure. The goal of the current study was to characterize the WM microstructural differences in individuals with VCFS and unaffected siblings, and the correlation of WM microstructure with neuropsychological performance. We hypothesized that individuals with VCFS would have decreased indices of WM microstructure (fractional anisotropy (FA), axial diffusivity (AD) and radial diffusivity (RD)), particularly in WM tracts to the frontal lobe, and that these measures would be correlated with cognitive functioning.MethodsThirty-three individuals with VCFS (21 female) and 16 unaffected siblings (8 female) participated in DTI scanning and neuropsychological testing. We performed an atlas-based analysis, extracted FA, AD, and RD measures for 54 WM tracts (27 in each hemisphere) for each participant, and used MANOVAs to compare individuals with VCFS to siblings. For WM tracts that were statistically significantly different between VCFS and siblings (pFDR < 0.05), we assessed the correlations between DTI and neuropsychological measures.ResultsIn VCFS individuals as compared to unaffected siblings, we found decreased FA in the uncinate fasciculus, and decreased AD in multiple WM tracts (bilateral superior and posterior corona radiata, dorsal cingulum, inferior fronto-occipital fasciculus, superior longitudinal fasciculus, superior cerebellar peduncle, posterior thalamic radiation, and left anterior corona radiata, retrolenticular part of the internal capsule, external capsule, sagittal stratum). We also found significant correlations of AD with measures of executive function, IQ, working memory, and/or social cognition.ConclusionsOur results suggest that individuals with VCFS display abnormal WM connectivity in a widespread cerebro-anatomical network, involving tracts from/to all cerebral lobes and the cerebellum. Future studies could focus on the WM developmental trajectory in VCFS, the association of WM alterations with psychiatric disorders, and the effects of candidate 22q11.2 genes on WM anomalies.
Comparative effectiveness of post-discharge interventions for hospitalized smokers: study protocol for a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Japuntich Sandra J , Regan Susan , Viana Joseph , Tymoszczuk Justyna , Reyen Michele , Levy Douglas E , Singer Daniel E , Park Elyse R , Chang Yuchiao , Rigotti Nancy A 
Published: August 2012

Abstract

Background
A hospital admission offers smokers an opportunity to quit. Smoking cessation counseling provided in the hospital is effective, but only if it continues for more than one month after discharge. Providing smoking cessation medication at discharge may add benefit to counseling. A major barrier to translating this research into clinical practice is sustaining treatment during the transition to outpatient care. An evidence-based, practical, cost-effective model that facilitates the continuation of tobacco treatment after discharge is needed. This paper describes the design of a comparative effectiveness trial testing a hospital-initiated intervention against standard care.

Methods/design
A two-arm randomized controlled trial compares the effectiveness of standard post-discharge care with a multi-component smoking cessation intervention provided for three months after discharge. Current smokers admitted to Massachusetts General Hospital who receive bedside smoking cessation counseling, intend to quit after discharge and are willing to consider smoking cessation medication are eligible. Study participants are recruited following the hospital counseling visit and randomly assigned to receive Standard Care or Extended Care after hospital discharge. Standard Care includes a recommendation for a smoking cessation medication and information about community resources. Extended Care includes up to three months of free FDA-approved smoking cessation medication and five proactive computerized telephone calls that use interactive voice response technology to provide tailored motivational messages, offer additional live telephone counseling calls from a smoking cessation counselor, and facilitate medication refills. Outcomes are assessed at one, three, and six months after hospital discharge. The primary outcomes are self-reported and validated seven-day point prevalence tobacco abstinence at six months. Other outcomes include short-term and sustained smoking cessation, post-discharge utilization of smoking cessation treatment, hospital readmissions and emergency room visits, and program cost per quit.

Discussion
This study tests a disseminable smoking intervention model for hospitalized smokers. If effective and widely adopted, it could help to reduce population smoking rates and thereby reduce tobacco-related mortality, morbidity, and health care costs.

Trial registration
United States Clinical Trials Registry NCT01177176.
Translationally Controlled Tumour Protein (TCTP) is present in human cornea and increases in herpetic keratitis
Authors: Batisti Cinzia , Ambrosio Maria R , Rocca Bruno J , Tosi Gian M , Sanchez Jean C , Arcuri Felice , Cintorino Marcella , Tripodi Sergio A 
Published: August 2012

Abstract

Background
Translationally Controlled Tumour protein is a multifunctional calcium binding protein which has an important role in apoptosis, calcium levels balance and immunological response. The aim of this study was to evaluated the presence and distribution of TCTP in healthy human corneas and to identify and characterize the presence and distribution of this protein in human normal cornea. Since recent studies suggest that apoptosis, calcium levels and immunological mechanisms play a role in the pathogenesis of herpetic stromal keratitis, we studied TCTP expression in this disease.

Methods
We evaluated the expression of TCTP at both RNA messanger and protein level by using reverse transcriptase analysis, immunoblotting and immunohistochemistry in 10 healthy samples cornea: four obtained after penetrating keratoplasty and six from eyes enucleated for other pathologies. Finally, we analysed by immunohistochemistry ten paraffin-embedded samples of Herpes simplex virus keratitis collected at Siena Department of Human Pathology and Oncology: 5 had clinically quiescent disease and 5 had active corneal inflammation.

Results
Reverse transcriptase and immunoblotting demonstrated TCTP expression in cornea as a 22,000 Da molecular weight band corresponding to the molecular weight of this protein. Immunohistochemically, all the layers of normal corneal epithelium showed TCTP cytoplasmic expression. TCTP was, also, observed in keratocytes and in the endothelium. In Herpes simplex virus keratitis samples, strong expression of TCTP was evident in stromal cells, in the inflammatory infiltrate and in neo-vessels.

Conclusions
In this preliminary study we demonstrated, for the first time, the presence of TCTP in human cornea, suggesting a potential role in the pathogenesis of herpes virus keratitis.

Virtual Slides
The virtual slide(s) for this article can be found here: http://www.diagnosticpathology.diagnomx.eu/vs/3306813447428149
Rationalization of paclitaxel insensitivity of yeast β-tubulin and human βIII-tubulin isotype using principal component analysis
Authors: Das Lalita , Bhattacharya Bhabatarak , Basu Gautam 
Published: August 2012

AbstractBackgroundThe chemotherapeutic agent paclitaxel arrests cell division by binding to the hetero-dimeric protein tubulin. Subtle differences in tubulin sequences, across eukaryotes and among β-tubulin isotypes, can have profound impact on paclitaxel-tubulin binding. To capture the experimentally observed paclitaxel-resistance of human βIII tubulin isotype and yeast β-tubulin, within a common theoretical framework, we have performed structural principal component analyses of β-tubulin sequences across eukaryotes.ResultsThe paclitaxel-resistance of human βIII tubulin isotype and yeast β-tubulin uniquely mapped on to the lowest two principal components, defining the paclitaxel-binding site residues of β-tubulin. The molecular mechanisms behind paclitaxel-resistance, mediated through key residues, were identified from structural consequences of characteristic mutations that confer paclitaxel-resistance. Specifically, Ala277 in βIII isotype was shown to be crucial for paclitaxel-resistance.ConclusionsThe present analysis captures the origin of two apparently unrelated events, paclitaxel-insensitivity of yeast tubulin and human βIII tubulin isotype, through two common collective sequence vectors.
Upregulation of transmitter release probability improves a conversion of synaptic analogue signals into neuronal digital spikes
Authors: Yu Jiandong , Qian Hao , Wang Jin-Hui 
Published: August 2012

Abstract
Action potentials at the neurons and graded signals at the synapses are primary codes in the brain. In terms of their functional interaction, the studies were focused on the influence of presynaptic spike patterns on synaptic activities. How the synapse dynamics quantitatively regulates the encoding of postsynaptic digital spikes remains unclear. We investigated this question at unitary glutamatergic synapses on cortical GABAergic neurons, especially the quantitative influences of release probability on synapse dynamics and neuronal encoding. Glutamate release probability and synaptic strength are proportionally upregulated by presynaptic sequential spikes. The upregulation of release probability and the efficiency of probability-driven synaptic facilitation are strengthened by elevating presynaptic spike frequency and Ca2+. The upregulation of release probability improves spike capacity and timing precision at postsynaptic neuron. These results suggest that the upregulation of presynaptic glutamate release facilitates a conversion of synaptic analogue signals into digital spikes in postsynaptic neurons, i.e., a functional compatibility between presynaptic and postsynaptic partners.
Production, active staining and gas chromatography assay analysis of recombinant aminopeptidase P from Lactococcus lactis ssp. lactis DSM 20481
Authors: Stressler Timo , Eisele Thomas , Schlayer Michael , Fischer Lutz 
Published: August 2012

Abstract
The aminopeptidase P (PepP, EC 3.4.11.9) gene from Lactococcus lactis ssp. lactis DSM 20481 was cloned, sequenced and expressed recombinantly in E. coli BL21 (DE3) for the first time. PepP is involved in the hydrolysis of proline-rich proteins and, thus, is important for the debittering of protein hydrolysates. For accurate determination of PepP activity, a novel gas chromatographic assay was established. The release of L-leucine during the hydrolysis of L-leucine-L-proline-L-proline (LPP) was examined for determination of PepP activity. Sufficient recombinant PepP production was achieved via bioreactor cultivation at 16 °C, resulting in PepP activity of 90 μkatLPP Lculture
-1. After automated chromatographic purification by His-tag affinity chromatography followed by desalting, PepP activity of 73.8 μkatLPP Lculture
-1 was achieved. This was approximately 700-fold higher compared to the purified native PepP produced by Lactococcus lactis ssp. lactis NCDO 763 as described in literature. The molecular weight of PepP was estimated to be ~ 40 kDa via native-PAGE together with a newly developed activity staining method and by SDS-PAGE. Furthermore, the kinetic parameters K

m
and V

max
were determined for PepP using three different tripeptide substrates. The purified enzyme showed a pH optimum between 7.0 and 7.5, was most active between 50°C and 60°C and exhibited reasonable stability at 0°C, 20°C and 37°C over 15 days. PepP activity could be increased 6-fold using 8.92 mM MnCl2 and was inhibited by 1,10-phenanthroline and EDTA.
Antipsychotics: is it time to introduce patient
choice?
Authors: Morrison Anthony P. , Hutton Paul , Shiers David , Turkington Douglas 
Published: August 2012

SummaryEvidence regarding overestimation of the efficacy of antipsychotics and
underestimation of their toxicity, as well as emerging data regarding
alternative treatment options, suggests it may be time to introduce patient
choice and reconsider whether everyone who meets the criteria for a
schizophrenia spectrum diagnosis requires antipsychotics in order to
recover.
The London 2012 Olympics – will there be a legacy for mental health?
Authors: Currie Alan 
Published: August 2012

SummaryThe host country's legacy after the Olympic Games is multifaceted. Alongside such diverse elements as tourism, commerce and transport sit the health benefits of increased participation in sports and provision of the highest quality medical support for the nation's elite sporting performers. Mental health, however, merits no specific mention. This could be a missed opportunity to create a legacy that promotes the mental health benefits of exercise as well as ensuring that the mental health needs of elite sportsmen and women are recognised and met in the same manner as their physical health needs.
Three-dimensional double-echo steady-state (3D-DESS) magnetic resonance imaging of the knee: establishment of flip angles for evaluation of cartilage at 1.5 T and 3.0 T
Authors: Moriya Susumu , Miki Yukio , Matsuno Yukako , Okada Masayo 
Published: August 2012

Background The effect of flip angle (FA) on synovial fluid and cartilage signal and on image contrast using three-dimensional double-echo steady-state (3D-DESS) sequence have only been performed with 1.0-T but not with 1.5-T or 3.0-T scanners. Purpose To identify the FA that gives the maximum synovial fluid and cartilage values, and to identify the FA at which maximum values of synovial fluid-cartilage contrast-to-noise ratio (CNR) in 3D-DESS sequences when 1.5-T and 3.0-T scanners are used. Material and Methods Using 3D-DESS with water-excitation pulse, mid-sagittal plane images of the knees of 10 healthy volunteers (5 men, 5 women; age range, 21–42 years) were obtained with FA varying from 10° to 90°. Synovial fluid signals, cartilage signals, and background were measured at each FA, and the FA that gave the highest synovial fluid and cartilage values was obtained. Synovial fluid-cartilage CNR was also calculated, and the FA that gave the largest CNR was obtained. Results At 1.5 T, the maximum synovial fluid signal was at FA 90°, and the maximum cartilage signal was at FA 30°. Synovial fluid-cartilage CNR was highest at FA 90° ( P < 0.05). At 3.0 T, the maximum synovial fluid signal was at FA 90°, and the maximum cartilage signal was at FA 20°. Synovial fluid-cartilage CNR was highest at FA 90° ( P < 0.05). Conclusion In order to improve the visibility of cartilage itself, FA settings of 30° at 1.5 T and 20° at 3.0 T are apparently ideal. For observing the cartilage surface, the most effective FA setting is 90° for both 1.5 T and 3.0 T.
Inhaled Anticholinergic Agents and Acute Urinary Retention in Men with Lower Urinary Tract Symptoms or Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia
Authors: Griend Joseph P Vande , Linnebur Sunny A 
Published: August 2012

OBJECTIVE: To assess the risk of acute urinary retention with the use of inhaled anticholinergic agents in men with lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) or benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). DATA SOURCES: A literature search was performed with MEDLINE via PubMed from 1967 through May 2012 using the terms inhaled anticholinergics, urinary retention, benign prostatic hyperplasia, lower urinary tract symptoms, tiotropium, and ipratropium. In addition, references from reviewed publications were identified and official labeling was obtained from the manufacturers' Web sites. STUDY SELECTION AND DATA EXTRACTION: Only English-language publications were included. Randomized controlled trial data, observational studies, case reports, package labeling, and commentaries regarding men with BPH/LUTS using inhaled anticholinergic agents and the associated development of urinary retention were reviewed. DATA SYNTHESIS: Two case reports; 1 prospective, open-label, single-arm study; and 2 nested case-control studies evaluated or described the use of inhaled anticholinergic agents and the development of acute urinary retention in men with BPH/LUTS. Taken together, the available data demonstrate that treatment with inhaled anticholinergic agents is associated with acute urinary retention in men with preexisting LUTS or BPH. CONCLUSIONS: Men with LUTS or BPH who are treated with inhaled anticholinergic agents may develop acute urinary retention, but this cannot be quantified based on the limited information available. Inhaled anticholinergic agents should be used when indicated in men with LUTS or BPH, but close monitoring and patient education should be implemented.
Buyer Power and Vertically Differentiated Retailers
Authors: Rojas Christian , Lavoie Nathalie , Wang Shinn-Shyr 
Published: August 2012

Abstract
We consider a model of vertical competition where retailers purchase an upstream input from a monopolist and are able to differentiate from each other in terms of quality. Our primary focus is to study the price, quality and welfare effects of introducing a large retailer, such as Costco or a Wal-Mart Supercenter, which is able to obtain lower wholesale prices (i.e., countervailing buyer power). We obtain two main results. First, the store with no buyer power (a “traditional retailer”) responds to the presence of the large retailer by increasing its quality, a finding that is consistent with recent efforts by traditional retailers to enhance consumers’ shopping experience. Second, the presence of a large retailer causes consumer welfare to increase through two different channels: a) the upstream discount obtained by the large retailer is partially passed on to the retail price, and b) a greater quality offered by the traditional retailer. Contrary to conventional wisdom, at low levels of countervailing power, most of the consumer welfare gains accrue to consumers with the highest willingness to pay for quality, due to the latter channel.
On the Limitation of Fenton Oxidation Operational Parameters: A Review
Authors: Diya'uddeen Basheer Hasan , A.R. Abdul Aziz , Daud W.M.A.W. 
Published: August 2012

Abstract
The literature on the use of Fenton oxidation in wastewater treatment has established the method as one of the most effective and suitable methods for recalcitrant wastewater treatment. It is an advanced oxidation process (AOP) that utilises the highly reactive hydroxyl radical (OH) to aggressively and non-selectively destroy organic contaminants. The Fenton oxidation possesses environmental and economic benefits coupled with effective mineralisation of most wastewater organics. Broadly, the Fenton oxidation encompasses three types of oxidation routes for the production of OH: (i) through the use of Fenton reagents alone, termed classical Fenton oxidation (CFO), (ii) assisted by means of UV (photo-Fenton), or (iii) electron beams (electro-Fenton). However, this review is limited to CFO, which involves the catalytic decomposition of hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) by suitable transition metals to generate OH. Despite the many advantages of the CFO process, there are issues related to operational parameters and the final treated wastewater, the most notable being pH modulation, the presence of the catalyst and the cost of the oxidant (H2O2). Furthermore, sludge generation constitutes an apparent drawback to the utilisation of this technology. This paper attempts to review the highlighted limitations and presents researches and advances reported in the literature addressing these issues.